High Country Home Winter 2009

Let’s get started.

Call today!

828.963.9633 www.boonekitchensandbaths.com 7883 NC Hwy 105 South, Suite A Boone, NC 28607

Actual view of Grandfather Mountain from Echota on the Ridge.

Like our legendary views, the reasons Echota has become the High Country’s most successful community are clearer than ever.

Lock-and-leave luxury. And a central location between Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock. See for yourself why Echota was the only choice over 450 families could make.

800.333.7601 EchotaNC.com

facebook.com/ EchotaResort

Second Home. FirSt cHoice.

Visit one of our sales offices: 1107 Main St, Suite C, Blowing Rock, NC or 133 Echota Pkwy, Boone, NC • Condos from the High $200’s

Editor’s Note 2010 is here and everyone at the High Country Home magazine is excited about it's arrival. For most people in this area and across both our state and nation, 2009 was a difficult year. Headlines daily reminded us of the shortcomings of our economy, from the large layoffs and bankruptcies for so many major national corporations to small businesses that simply faded away. Frankly, all businesses who survived 2009 should be proud of themselves.

We certainly are very proud. We knew the odds were stacked against us as our inaugural issue hit stands in October of 2008.

We heard the media’s warnings on both the status of the economy and the status of the failing print media industry loud and clear, but we weren’t going to let that stop us. Instead we explored the reasons why major newspapers and magazines were failing. Our findings made sense and really impacted the way we conducted our business. The newspaper industry’s struggles were due to the inability to deliver news quickly when compared to the internet.

The national magazines that were failing were failing because of several things including high price points for advertisements, high paper costs, loss of subscriptions, crowded niches, and over-staffing. We then discovered a silver lining. 2009 was one of the biggest years in history for regional magazine start-ups. In contrast to the public opinion, on the regional level, print media was alive! It was alive because it provided local, well written, well timed, affordable niche content. So, we ran with this, and haven’t looked back.

Since these discoveries, we have produced our first full year of magazines. All four of our issues have remained strictly within the guidelines of other successful models. We focused on delivering beautiful images and informative articles targeted at the luxury home industry, our niche. We maintained a 70% to 30% content

to ad ratio for the benefit of our readers. We maintained a healthy and constant page count well above 100 pages. All this isn’t to toot our own horn, because this was team effort. A team comprised of our incredible, hardworking and sometimes short-handed staff, our amazing and knowledgeable contributors, our highly skilled photographers, and most importantly our paying advertisers and loyal readers. We give a sincere thanks for helping us get through 2009, a rough year for everyone and our first full year with the magazine.

In gracious return, we plan on continuing to deliver quality content in our magazines throughout 2010. We promise to constantly reevaluate our goals in the hopes of producing a better final product for our readers while saving our advertisers money. We also plan on expanding to other mediums and have already taken steps to improve our online identity with our new website www. highcountryhomemagazine.com. This endeavor will be ongoing and we will continue to make improvements in functionality and delivery of information. Simply put, our goal in 2010 is to step it up even more by giving our readers multiple channels to find both informative and eloquent articles and simultaneously give our advertisers, the ones that pay for this wonderful adventure, several avenues of exposure. Now with everything transparently laid out on the table, we look forward to a wonderful 2010 and wish you the very best.

If you would like to be a part of this adventure, drop us a line at highcountryhomemagazine@gmail.com or give us a call at 828.264.2670.

Until next time.

Jon-Paul R. Grice, Editor of High Country Home magazine

Staff

Chris Rabon, Publisher Jon-Paul Grice, Editor Lindsey Lanning, Account Rep. Jonathan Triplett, Account Rep. Katie Henderson, Writer Stefan Olson, Photographer

Contact Us Please contact us if you would like to advertise in our print or online mediums, contribute articles, request info on home photography, submit letters to the editor, subscribe to our magazine, or just want to give us some feedback.

Market Connection Publishers of the High Country Home 1082 E. King St Suite 6 Boone, NC 28607 www.highcountryhomemagazine.com highcountryhomemagazine@gmail.com marketconnectionads@gmail.com

Subscribe You can find our premier home magazine and resource guide in racks and stacks across the High Country from West Jefferson and Boone to Blowing Rock and Banner Elk. They are so popular though, that sometimes it is hard to track one down.

If you're tired of looking for a High Country Home Magazine and simply want to guarantee that you get one we've got the solution for you. If you live off the mountain and want to receive one in the mail, we've made it easy.

All you have to do is subscribe!

Right now we are offering the next four issues of the High Country Home Magazine for the low price of just $19.99 a year! This offer will cover all your High Country Home Stories, photos, and resources for the entirety of 2010!

Look for the blow in subscription card in this issue or send your check or money order for $19.99 (for the next 4 quarterly issues) or $34.99 (for the next 8 quarterly issues, only $17.50/year) to 1082 E. King St, Suite 6, Boone, NC 28607. If you wish to subscrive via credit card please call 828-264-2670.

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Departments

17

68

Introductions

Home Guide

18 People We Admire Builders & Developers

49 9 Mistakes To Avoid When You Are Designing Your New Kitchen

24 Businesses We Applaud Builders & Developers

56 Cosmetic Surgery

99

Out Of The House 99

Where To Ski

104 Where To Stay

117

60 Out With The Old 62 Easier In 2010

Beyond The Box

66 Benefits Of A Central Vacuum 68 A Better Way To View Your World 70 Timber!!!

113 27 The Energy Audit

The Marketplace 109 Products You Need

In The Garage

117 The Brokerage - 500K+ Homes For Sale 122 Services 127 Corkboard

Other 124 Final Thoughts 126 Sponsor Index 31 The Montclair

For The Table

34

34 Winter Cuisine From Glidewells, Bistro Roca, and Restaurant G at Gideon Ridge 8 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

110

Design Profiles

Cover Story: Tailormade RCD Construction and owner Randy Strombeck proudly introduce the Gatti House, a nearly 7,000 foot masterpiece nestled in the new luxury Reynolds Blue Ridge community.

Cover Photo by Rachel Strombeck Photos by Rachel Strombeck

74

86

80

92

On The Ridge

5 Star Luxury

The Modern Mountain

Baxter Norris Construction is responsible for this nearly 10,000 square feet masterpiece in one of the most upscale communities in the High Country.

Headwaters Enterprises’ new home in the Councill Oaks gated comunity embodies efficient building techniques and green innovation while maintaining beauty and luxury.

Doug McGuire Construction adds a modern twist to a spectacular Blowing Rock home, truly showcasing their full repertoire of skills.

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www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 11

Contributors Colleen Luntzel is the co-owner of House Warming, a newly established design group emphasizing the importance of making dwelling places into home through architectural design, remodeling, and decorating. She resides in Boone with her husband of thirty two years and their youngest of five children.

Breton Frazier, the DeClutter Diva, lives in St. Augustine, Florida where she works privately with individuals and corporate clients. Breton began tackling closets as a wardrobe consultant more than thirty years ago and evolved into a personal organizer. Write her with your questions on decluttering at: thedeclutterdiva@ gmail.com

Elizabeth Shukis of AS Construction, Inc., Diversified Building Solutions, Inc, and The White Glove is a graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her and her husband, Andrew, have lived in the High Country for nine years and have owned their businesses for over 15 years. She prides herself on both the personal and professional relationships she develops with her clients.

Judi Beck is a facilitator, art consultant, and freelance writer living in the High Country. She’s been published in Pastel Artist International, Philanthropy International and the Inner Edge, as well as numerous regional publications. She and her husband, Kevin, were owners of the Upstairs Gallery in Blowing Rock. She is the author of “The Ecology of Conversation.�

Katie Henderson has a BS in Psychology and is working on her MBA at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. Katie is very interested in sustainability, anything to do with animals, outdoors, reading, and writing.

Check out the new website Drum role please! It is with great pride that I announce our new website and domain name. HighCountryHomeMagazine.com is sure to be a one-stop place for all your home needs. We have updated and expanded our website and now it is jam-packed with even more! Here you will find a digital copy of the entire magazine, exclusive articles, recipes and more. You’ll also see blogs, written by professionals in the home industry. Our goal was to provide a true resource that meets every need of the homeowner. We’ve included advice and insight to help with all your remodeling projects- Plus hot products that are a must have, and photo galleries sure to inspire. A list of competent service providers is also available when its time for remodeling. If you’re looking to buy a new home, you’ll find that too. The Brokerage section contains high-end homes currently for sale here in the High Country. So browse the website and see all that’s new. I’m sure you’ll find yourself returning time and time again. Enjoy.

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TheIntroductions Get to know the businesses we applaud and people we admire in the High Country

People We Admire • Builders and Developers • 18 / Businesses We Applaud • In Construction • 22

builders

& developers

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Introductions :: People We Admire

John Haynes

Headwaters at Banner Elk

W

ith a deep love of the mountains and a desire to share them with others, John Haynes has embarked on the fulfillment of a long held dream, and now shares this vision with you through The Headwaters at Banner Elk. John Haynes’ background includes five years appraising commercial real estate and even more years of experience as a corporate land development officer for Oakwood Land Development and Pulte Home Corporation; where he developed over 600 single family home sites in North Carolina.John has been married to his college sweetheart, Josephine since 1987 and has been blessed with two healthy and fine twin boys, Scott and Michael.

After extensive analysis and a land search throughout western North Carolina, John found the land that has become The Headwaters at Banner Elk. His desire was to create a beautiful community, but one that will be full of life and cater to families and active retirees alike. To do this, he has created a number of outdoor spaces to complement their incredible clubhouse. Their mountaintop clubhouse features a fitness center, game room and 14 seat theater. Their outdoor spaces include two lakes, miles of trails, and six beautiful community parks.

It is John’s hope that you will visit the outstanding community and come to the conclusion that so many others have . . . that The Headwaters at Banner Elk is where you can refresh your spirit, perhaps discover your heritage, or start your own family traditions.

For more info call 866-200-3290 or visit www.headwatersnc.com

Matt Long & Phil Washburn

C

Capehart And Washburn

apehart & Washburn, LLC was formed in the fall of 2007 when Matthew Capehart Long, owner of Capehart Construction & Renovation, LLC and Phil Washburn, owner of Washburn Custom Builders, Inc. joined forces to start a new company that would capitalize on each of their talents.

Partner Matthew C. Long was born and raised in Boone, NC and graduated from Watauga High School. Matthew received a BS degree in Construction Technology from Appalachian State University in 2000. Matthew worked as Project Manager for a commercial builder in Charlotte, NC for six years following his graduation. Matthew started Capehart Construction & Renovation, LLC in 2004 and completed residential building projects in both Charlotte and Boone. Matthew and his wife, Sarah, thoroughly enjoy working and living in Boone again.

Partner Philip Washburn was raised in Cove Creek, NC and graduated from Watauga High School. Phil began working in the construction industry for a large local general contractor and gained years of field experience prior to working with a top local residential builder. Phil worked as Project Superintendent with Olszewski Construction Company for 12 years. In 2005, Phil started Washburn Custom Builders, Inc. and has completed many residential projects in the area. Phil, his wife, Dusty, and their two children, Selah and Lex live in the Sugar Grove community.

For more info call 828-963-9216 or visit their website at www. capehartandwashburn.com 18 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Introductions :: People We Admire

Randy Strombeck

R

RCD Construction

andy Strombeck is the president of RCD Construction, Inc. He is also the owner of Stout Log Homes, his custom log and timber frame construction division. He is a North Carolina based builder with 25 years of experience in the construction industry.

In 1981, Randy Strombeck was a young man fresh out of his first year in college, when he decided to start his own construction company, buy his first home, and marry the girl of his dreams. He operated his business as a sole proprietor for 16 years in his home state of Florida. RCD Construction, Inc. was formed in 1997, when Randy decided to begin larger and more complex projects. In December of 2000, RCD moved its base of operations to Moravian Falls, North Carolina.

RCD has an unlimited general contracting license in the state of North Carolina. They have extensive experience with the design and building of residential homes and renovations. RCD Construction’s projects also include commercial construction throughout the Southeast United States. RCD has built sustainable relationships which has earned repeat business and attracted new and diverse clients. RCD Construction services include management, planning, development, consulting, preconstruction, and turn-key design/ build. For more info call 336-838-6701 or visit www.rcdconstruction.com.

Holly and Chase Ambler Headwaters Enterprises

H

eadwaters Enterprises Inc. was started by Holly & Chase Ambler after building their first home in 1992. Headwaters Enterprises builds a mix of custom homes and spec homes. They hold an Unlimited Building License with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors, which allows them to do both residential and commercial building projects.

Since 1994 Headwaters Enterprises has built 20 homes, all located here in the High Country. Building a few homes at a time allows them to focus on all the little details of your home, while also taking into account the considerations of you, the homeowner, in every phase of the project. Their employees typically do all of the carpentry work on a project from framing all the way through to the finish work and all of Headwaters Enterprises subcontractors, as well as their suppliers, are local to the High Country.

Chase was born in Asheville, NC, Holly in Chattanooga, TN. They came to Boone to attend Appalachian State University and have remained here ever since. They live in the Valle Crucis community with their two children, Will and Kate. Chase works on the job site daily, and Holly teaches at Appalachian State University. All four of the Amblers are active skiers, spending much of their free time in the winter supporting Will and his ski racing aspirations with the High Country Junior Race Series. The Amblers are active members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Outside of work and family Holly & Chase fill their time with volunteering at the Valle Crucis Elementary School, High Country Conservancy, and Habitat for Humanity For more info call 828-964-1097 or visit www.headwaters.us.

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Introductions :: Businesses We Applaud

Ed Spivey Construction

F

rom the beautiful High Country of Boone and Blowing Rock to Hickory, North Carolina, Ed Spivey and Spivey Construction have been building quality custom homes since the mid-1980s.

Ed Spivey is much more concerned with how he builds each individual home, rather than with how many he builds in any given year. Spivey Construction is a true custom builder that limits the number of projects it has under construction each year in order to maintain the level of quality that their clients have come to expect.

Ed and his crew take great pride in the quality of their work and the relationship with their clients. At Spivey Construction, client relationships are built by listening, understanding, and defining the client’s wishes, offering solid, real-world advice, and building superior homes with quality materials. As a result, you’ll find some of Western North Carolina’s most satisfied homeowners living in homes built by Spivey Construction.

So satisfied, in fact, that the majority of Ed Spivey’s business comes from referrals from previous and current clients. So whether you are interested in a mountain-style log home, an arts and crafts bungalow, or a classic brick design, call or email Spivey Construction.

For more info call (828) 757-3861 or visit their website at www.edspivey. com

Logs America

L

ogs America, LLC has been providing top quality custom log home packages to the mountains of Western North Carolina and beyond since 1994. Founded on the promise of “Doing what we say we will”, their business continues to grow supported by a talented staff and a team of reliable builders.

Logs America, LLC has the unique opportunity to offer a variety of services.

They work directly with the log home lover from conceptual design to the construction of the finished product and anywhere in between. They offer a hands on approach to Do-It-Yourselfers or will liaison with a general contractor of your choice.

Logs America welcomes you to view their personal home or can arrange to show you finished and under construction homes of their gracious clients.

They have a variety of homes and styles to show whether it be a particular design or log style.They are locally owned and operated from the milling of the logs and timbers to your finished home. There is no need to look further for the experience, quality and integrity available here in your community.

Stop by or call their sales office to speak to one of their team members to discuss your log home plans or to see one of their finished homes. Don’t forget to ask about viewing a current construction project.

For more info call 828-963-7755 or visit their website at www.logsamerica. com.

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Introductions :: Businesses We Applaud

Doug McGuire Construction

E

stablished in 1987, Douglas L. McGuire Construction Co., Inc. is one of the premier general contractors in Watauga County.

Doug McGuire Construction Company embraces personal attention, open communication, extensive construction knowledge, and a "hands-on" approach to create a positive and successful building project for each of his clients. These key elements are constant reminders of the excellent workmanship and pride that is reflected in their homes throughout Boone, Blowing Rock, and Valle Crucis, North Carolina.

Raised by his contractor father, Doug McGuire has been around the residential construction business all of his life. Much of the company's continued success stems from their highly skilled employees, loyal subcontractors and vendors. They incorporate professionalism and construct diligently throughout the various stages of the building process.

Building a custom home or timber frame home is one of the largest and most expensive investments an individual undertakes in a lifetime. At Douglas L. McGuire Construction Co., Inc., they strive to eliminate the stress and anxiety associated with the building process, and to create a unique and masterfully crafted house that any client would be proud to call "home".

For more info call 828-963-6680 or visit www.mcguireconstruction.com.

E And K Construction

I

n the year 2000 Tom Eggers and Dale Kidder, combined their 25 years of construction experience to found E and K Construction Company.

Exposed to a diversity of construction styles and techniques, they've proven to be a successful team whether building in the commercial or residential sectors. Working with local developers in leading new communities such as Bear Creek, Headwaters, and The Village at Grandfather and The Glens of Grandfather, E and K have participated in a number of magnificent developments from the ground up. Whether you're building townhouses, timber frame, Adirondack, log or other traditional homes, E and K creates elegant rustic homes in harmony with the mountains of the Blue Ridge.

E and K understands scale, size, shape, utility, and amenities and most of all - budget parameters. They’ll explore affordable and efficient approaches to elegant and balanced designs. E and K’s experience in land planning is at the core of their design approach. Their homes are designed, located, and built to complement the surroundings. External appearance is important, but feel and comfort- the soul of the home - are carefully considered.

Few undertakings in life will prove as complex as the building of your own home. E and K Construction has developed longstanding relationships with the skilled craftsmen and artisans of our mountain community. E and K and its partners share the same goal - that you move into the home of your dreams on time and on budget.

For more info call (828) 963-7299 or visit www.eandkconstruction.com.

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26 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

BeyondTheBox Discussions on innovation and legislation, including dialogue on sustainable technologies for the home.

The

Energy Audit performed by Green Horizons Innovators featuring the newest and best technlogies

Fluke TIR 32 Thermal Imaging Camera

Minneapolis Blower Door

Bacharach Combustion Analyzer

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Green Horizons Innovators can help your home or business become more energy efficient with an energy audit featuring the newest technologies in the industry.

T

WRITTEN BY KATIE HENDERSON

he transition to sustainable practices is critical for successful businesses in today’s society, but it is also the solution for many individuals who are seeking to reduce variable costs in their lives. From excessive energy bills to stuffy and poorly ventilated rooms, home and business owners are facing many problems that can be answered through energy efficient means.

Butch Zadlo first started auditing homes for his family members, and after seeing the exponential savings he was able to provide, he expanded into Green Horizons Innovators with the mission of “leading homes and businesses to be energy efficient.”

With a background of 20 years in the construction industry, Butch was easily able to make the transition into the field of sustainability and energy efficiency, through thermal imaging, whole-house assessments, combustion analysis, and other state of the art procedures.

GHI provides building analysis and thermal imaging to show not only areas where energy may be escaping from your building, but also places where your current energy usage may be reduced. The benefits of an energy audit are vast, but Butch notes that the most advantageous results include a higher level of comfort, a stronger feeling of security, and of course a more efficient home, bringing notable energy savings. After the GHI energy audit process, owners can expect an average of 20-40% in energy savings.

GHI uses the newest and most advanced technologies for the energy audits and other services they perform. For thermal imaging they use the Fluke TIR 32 thermal imaging camera.

Fluke thermal imagers (sometimes referred to as infrared imagers, thermal cameras or infrared cameras) capture fully radiometric infrared images using patent-pending IR-Fusion® technology.

Thermal imaging is often referred to as the first defense in a predictive maintenance, preventative maintenance program or a building restoration or remediation project. GHI also uses advanced blower doors by Minneapolis. The Minneapolis Blower Door has long been recognized as the best designed and supported building airtightness testing system in the world.

Combined with specialized accessories and testing procedures developed by The Energy Conservatory, the Minneapolis Blower Door is the system of choice for utility DSM programs, energy raters, HVAC contractors and weatherization professionals.

Along with the thermal imaging camera and blower door, GHI uses the Bacharach combustion analyzer for sampling of light industrial, institutional, commercial and residential furnaces, boilers and appliances. These are the perfect tools to ensure safe operating conditions, determine combustion efficiency, or perform emissions testing in combustion applications. GHI not only has the knowledge to help you save money and become 28 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

more efficient, they also have the best tools and technologies.

In addition to significant monetary savings, owners can also expect an improvement in the overall health of inhabitants. Butch notes that while some allergens are caused from external factors, many allergies are due to living and breathing contaminants inside your home that leak in from the basement or crawl space.

The energy audit process works to decrease and eliminate these pollutants from homes and businesses.

The process of an energy audit is very simple for the home or business owner. GHI begins with an audit that includes procedures such as utility bill analysis, blower door testing, attic and roof inspections, HVAC testing, and lighting upgrade inspection. After the analysis a detailed report is delivered, describing the trouble spots of the building, owner options, and approximate costs associated for efficient improvements on the property. In addition, GHI provides an estimate of the yield on the investment in order for the client to see how quickly they can expect a return.

GHI provides all weatherization services, from minor fixes to full insulation capabilities and appliance and window replacement.

Utilizing the latest infrared technology, GHI can also determine how a room or floor is performing thermally, enabling owners to locate missing and compressed insulation, air intrusion, thermal bridging, water leaks, and more.

For “do-it-yourself” clients, GHI provides recommendations for all solutions, whether or not they perform the repairs. Butch notes that most repairs are relatively inexpensive, ranging from $150 to $2,000. After the repairs are made, a second audit is performed to ensure that the process was successful for the owner.

GHI’s services are not limited to older homes, but also to new homes as well. For new homes, GHI provides HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems) testing. Energy audits are available for all owners, of both homes and businesses, ranging anywhere from individual apartments and mobile homes to multi-million dollar buildings.

Butch recognizes that energy efficiency and sustainable practices are not a fad, but rather a growing trend that is taking over business practices. With benefits from health improvements to a decrease in energy costs, it is easy to see why this movement is a success across the construction industry. Many benefits are going to be coming down the pipe really soon for customers who chose green alternatives for home repairs, including rebates and tax credits.

Based in the High Country, GHI also serves Tennessee, Virginia, and South Carolina. For more information on GHI, and how to make your home or business more energy efficient, call Butch Zadlo at (828) 773- 2039.

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InTheGarage

Articles on everything from organizing the garage to the cool cars and trucks that you park in the garage

The Montclair P

hil Critcher owner of Critchers Auto Parts is no stranger to classic cars. In fact he is the proud owner of more than one, and they are one of his many passions. We had the privilege of visiting with Phil and seeing first hand what might have graced a few garages in 1959. Here is a 1959 Mercury Montclair. This is one of only 6 still registered in the USA according to Phil. This year model of the Montclair was said to have been revamped “from road to roof” and made a impression when it was released.

This car is massive! And that is an understatement. It sports one of the largest engines, interiors and windshields. The wheelbase is a whopping 126”. The length is 217.8”, the width is 80.7” and the weight is 4240 lbs. There are few cars that compete with this vehicle’s sheer size. Ultimately, it was the size of this behemoth that lead to its rise and its fall.

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WRITTEN BY CHRIS RABON

What drives Phil’s car is a 430 V8 with a Holly 4-barrell. It has 70 thousand original miles. This engine produces a whopping 322 horsepower and 420 footlbs of torque. According to Phil, this 430 engine was Fords answer to the newly released Chevy 409 engine. When Phil was ask about its time from 0-60, he replied, “I don’t know, but I know it will outrun a F150 in a quarter mile, cause I’ve done it.”. The transmission named the “Multi-Drive Merc-o-matic” was one of the smoothest transmissions up to that point. Most automatics cannot be pushed to get them started in case of a low battery, etc. In such an instance, you can get this Mercury started by pushing it.

Topping Mercury owners’ best-liked list were three things: ease of handling, riding comfort and interior room. The ease of maneuverability was often praised. It was said that it handled like a much lighter vehicle yet with a safe and secure feeling.

However, despite the praises, Ford produced very few of these. The production of the Montclair for 1959 was only 9,514.

They retailed for $3,308. As far as we can tell it’s now worth somewhere between $14,000 and $16,000.The first complaints by owners were “as you might expect” fuel economy. Phil says with a grin, “ the good (or bad) thing about this vehicle is it gets about as good a gas mileage speeding down the road as it does sitting still”.

According to Phil, many of these cars were crushed during the gas crunch of 1973. He

said, “Back then often they weren’t worth fixing. It was more economical to junk them and get a newer more efficient car.”

The second complaint was the location of the rear view mirror.

Phil says the car is a fun car to drive, but despite this fact, it’s only driven about 3 or 4 times a year. He’s usually too busy helping others at “the stop”. Phil’s passion flows much deeper than just classic cars. If it moves or has wheels, Phil’s probably into it. His passion and enthusiasm is what has made Critcher’s Auto Parts so successful.

Phil is quick to help with everything from questions to parts! If he doesn’t have it or know it; he’s try to find it. He even offers special services not found in most “chains”. He changes out batteries, bulbs, fuses, and more. If you have any questions or automotive needs, he’s the one to call.

He also is quick to add, “Some folks just come by to visit”. It seems once you’ve been in a time or two, your treated like family. Phil, Karen and daughter Sarah; call most of their customers by name.

That’s something definitely not found in big chains. Stop by and visit and ask them where “Old Blue” is.

Here are the specs on this behemoth: Wheelbase

126”

Overall Length

217.8”

Overall Height

56.0”

Overall Width

80.7”

322 horsepower, 420 foot-pounds torque

ForTheTable

Recipes from the heart of the home, the kitchen. Recipes for the gathering place of the house, the dining room table.

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his is a very flavorful appetizer that plays the sweetness of the corn with the tartness of the chow chow.

A chow chow is a southern vegetable pickled relish, and can be made from many different vegetables.

This is a great winter dish because of the availability of good frozen sweet corn in the organic section of most supermarkets. As the season changes, vary the vegetables in the Chow Chow.

Corn Salad 2 cups Corn (fresh or frozen Shoepeg or Silver Queen) 1 cup Grape Tomatoes (halved) 2 cloves Garlic (crushed) 1/2 cup Red Onion (Diced) 1 Tbsp. Chopped Parsley 1 Tbsp. Fresh Oregano Leaves 3 Tbsp. Olive Oil 2 Tbsp. Red Wine Vinegar In a large saute pan, add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and saute the corn, garlic, onion and bell pepper till lightly browned. Remove from heat and add remaining ingredients. Mix thoroughly and add salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate.

Winter Veg.Chow Chow 1/2 cup Sweet Onion (diced) 1/4 cup Cauliflower Florets 1/4 cup Garlic Cloves (quartered) 1/4 cup Butternut Squash 1/4 cup Celery 1/4 cup Parsnip 1/2 cup Water 1 cup Rice Vinegar 1/4 cup Sugar

1 Tbsp. Red Pepper flakes 4 sprigs Thyme Bring water, vinegar, sugar and salt to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and add red pepper flakes and thyme. Add Vegetables and simmer for 5 minutes. Refrigerate for 24 hours and serve cold.

Grilled Shrimp 12 large Shrimp (16 to 20 to the pound) 12 bamboo skewers (soaked in water) Skewer the shrimp, brush with olive oil and grill lightly. Serve the hot grilled shrimp with a scoop of the corn salad and Chow Chow.

Shrimp Brochettes with Winter Vegetable Chow Chow and Corn Salad Recipe provided by Bistro Roca Photos by Scott Pearson

Lamb Shank

Braised Colorado Lamb Shank, Gorgonzola Polenta, Root Vegetables

Ingredients: 4 lamb shanks (fore shank) 1 rutabaga (diced) 2 yellow onions (diced) 2 carrots (peeled & diced) 1 potato (diced) 1 sweet potato (diced) 1 celeriac (diced) 8 cloves garlic (peeled) 3 tomatoes (diced) 2 stems rosemary (de-stemmed) 3 sprigs thyme (de-stemmed) 1 bay leaf 10 oz red wine 1qt chicken stock Salt & pepper to taste

Recipe provided by Glidewells Photos by Chris Rabon

Directions: (In a large Dutch oven add ingredients in order listed.)

Heat pot on stove.

Sear lamb shanks and let brown on all sides Add root vegetables and let brown Add wine and scrape bottom of the pot with spoon or spatula Reduce liquid by half Add tomatoes and herbs Allow all ingredients to incorporate well Add stock and seasoning Cover and cook in low temperature oven for• at least six hours 36 www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Polenta Ingredients 2 oz olive oil 3oz roasted garlic 16 oz chicken stock 16 oz whole milk 1 cup Adluh corn meal (coarse ground) 4 tablespoons Plugra butter 3 oz gorgonzola cheese Salt & pepper to taste Directions In a large sauce pan add milk, chicken stock, and olive oil and bring to a boil

Reduce heat In increments; add corn meal while stirring Bring to a simmer and cook for 30-45 minutes. Add remaining ingredients

Garnish Crumbled gorgonzola cheese Fried Vidalia onion- soak thick cut onion ring in buttermilk, dredge in seasoned flour and fry @350 degrees until golden brown

Pan Roasted Duck Breast, Sweet Potato Hash, Red Onion Jam Merlot Reduction

Recipe provided by Glidewells Photos by Chris Rabon

Duck Ingredients 4 Duck breasts ( silver-skin removed) Salt & pepper Directions: Season skin and flesh well.

In a HOT saute pan add duck skin side down and away from burner or heating element.

Let sear and reduce heat by 25 % As fat renders in pan ladle fat over flesh with a spoon, never turning the duck ( baste the duck in the fat from the skin) Continue basting process

until duck is medium rare.

Remove from heat and allow to rest Slice thinly with skin side down

Sweet Potato Hash Ingredients 2 sweet potatoes (peeled, small diced) 1 red onion (diced) 3 oz dried cranberries 1tsp cinnamon 1tsp nutmeg ½ tsp cardamom 2 tsp light brown sugar 4 oz dark rum 2 tbsp butter ½ lemon juice (fresh squeeze)

2 sprigs thyme ( picked) Directions In a hot saute pan add in order: Sweet potatoes Onions Dry spices Thyme Dried cranberries Rum (remove from heat, then re-introduce and burn off alchahol) Add butter and sugar until homogenous

Garnish Saffron onion marmalade1-small diced white onion 2 oz rice wine vinegar

pinch saffron 1oz granulated sugar combine and simmer until color infuses…cool Orange segment maceration 1 segmented orange 6 oz Champagne vinegar 1tsp powdered sugar Pinch red pepper flake Dash vanilla extract Confetti chives Cook all together except orange segments. Pour hot solution over orange segments, cover and let steep for 1 hour.

Crispy won-ton skin

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 37

Bacon Wrapped Figs with Basil/Goat Cheese Cigars

Recipe provided by Restaurant G Photos by Scott Pearson

T

he secret to this appetizer recipe is the black mission figs and the best quality naturally processed Berkshire Pork bacon. For a party, these can be passed Hors d'œuvres

Basil Goat Cheese Cigars 6 large Basil Leaves 1/4 cup Goat Cheese zest from 1/2 Lemon fresh cracked pepper Use a fork to mix the goat cheese, lemon zest and pepper till creamy. Spread basil leaves on a flat surface. Place a dollop of goat cheese on the end of each leaf and 38 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

roll tightly to distribute the goat cheese.

Refrigerate.

for 10 minutes minimum. Remove the figs and reserve water/honey mixture.

Bacon Wrapped Figs

Wrap figs in Bacon and skewer with toothpick. Set aside.

12 Dried Figs. (Black Mission Figs are best) 6 to 12 slices of Bacon depending on size of slices 1/4 cup water (you may substitute a nice Pilsner or lager beer for the water) 2 Tbsp. Honey 1 cup Port Wine 1 tsp. Rosemary (Fresh minced) Heat water and honey to a full boil.

Remove heat and add dried figs. Steep

To make the sauce, add the port to the water/honey mixture, bring to a boil and reduce by 1/2. Remove from heat and add rosemary.

Baste figs with some of the sauce and bake at 500º for 5 to 10 minutes.

Serve the figs hot from the oven with the cool basil cigars and drizzle sauce on all.

Restaurant Information We would like to say thanks to our participating restaurants for sharing these amazing dishes with our readers.

We hope you take the time to prepare these recipes in your kitchen and gather around the dining room table to enjoy them. If you would rather be wined and dined just visit any one of these amazing restaurants below.

Restaurant G Gideon Ridge Inn 202 Gideon Ridge Road Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-3644 www.gideonridge.com Bistro Roca 143 Wonderland Trail Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-4008 www.bistroroca.com Glidewells 1182 Main Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605-8280 (828) 295-9683 www.glidewellsrestaurant.org

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 39

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We will help you create your own masterpiece...

Classic 1710 Linville Falls Hwy Linville, NC 28646 classic stone works hc mag ad.indd 1

40 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

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www.classicstoneworksinc.com 5/7/09 11:33 AM

FocusRemodeling on

A seasonal spotlight for all the peripherals of the home. For winter we are focusing on renovations by hosting a Q & A.

I

t’s no secret that with a long hard winter and a struggling economy new home building has slowed to a crawl. With so many negative aspects to consider when constructing a new home most homeowners have decided to renovate their existing home rather than have a new one built. With these facts in mind High Country Home Magazine has assembled some of the best renovators in the High Country for a question and answer interview that should enlighten and inform our readers about the renovation process. For our panel we chose three very reputable renovators from the High Country and queried them on various aspects of the renovation process. Our panel consists of Nathan Aldous of Aldous Construction, Jason Matthews of High Country Renovators, and Mickey Spell of Fine Home Builders.

Nathan Aldous of Aldous Construction was born in Montana and graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelors degree in Building Construction Management with a minor in Architecture. Nathan along with his father Ken have over 50 years of combined construction experience which they bring to bare with Nathan's company Aldous Construction Services Incorporated.

For more info on Aldous Construction call 828-406-6525 or visit aldousconstruction.net.

High Country Home Magazine: Why should a person renovate their existing home rather than buy a new one?

Nathan Aldous, Aldous Construction: Because the Homeowner can get what they want, within reason of course. There will always be something about the next home that isn’t quite what you want but you are willing to live with. Why not make your current one work better for you? All too often people go buy a new home because their current one doesn’t fit their needs but fail to realize the potential possibilities of a renovation. You may realize that if you simply reorganize a few walls, move this here and that there you may get that home office or larger master bath.

High Country Home Magazine: If you were the Homeowner trying to find a renovator, what questions would you ask, and what general traits would you look for when selecting a professional?

Nathan: I think its important to get as many references as possible and then check those references. See if any of the projects the contractor previously did are not only up to par with what you are looking for as in quality and pricing but also in the same realm of construction. If all their references are exterior decks and you want a kitchen remodel, I would be more apt to look to the next contractor regardless of the first ones reputation.

Then you need to go visit the references and talk to the people and try and get a feeling for the contractor to see if he/she fits your personality. Renovations are stressful enough as it is so you need to get along with the contractor as much as possible.

Things will go so much smoother if you understand each other and can communicate easily. Lastly make sure the contractor is fully insured and ask for certificates. Avoid the “pickup truck petes”.

High Country Home Magazine: How much experience should a renovator have before you would consider using them for a project?

Nathan: Its hard to say because there are contractors who have been in business for decades and don’t do good quality work and some who are just starting out and do very fine work. Just because you’ve been doing something for 30 years doesn’t mean its being done right.

High Country Home Magazine: What is the most common problem you find when starting a renovation project?

Nathan: THAT OWNERS HAVENT DONE THEIR HOMEWORK! They don’t know what costs to expect or the processes involved. They get shell-shocked when they see a proposal or a change order. It takes a lot longer than they think (this isnt HGTV!) and costs more than they envisioned. Cut out pictures from magazines. Take the time and really think about all of the things that they want to have done. Go to the local lumber supply and design centers and write down everything they like and associated costs. Talk to the folks behind the counter and they will be happy help. If your budget is 3000 and you are already picking 2000 dollars worth of fixtures, tile, etc. then you need to rethink things. That’s when you talk to a renovator who can help you realize costs in better detail and maybe find better ways of doing something that gets you what you want in the budget you are looking at.

High Country Home Magazine: If you’re having problems with the renovator you've hired (ie. work not being performed to standard, going too slow......) what steps should be taken?

Nathan: First of all talk to the contractor. They may be going slower because the owner keeps making changes or ask questions etc. It may be because they are waiting on the special order shower door to be built or the tile to be shipped. If they are doing substandard work tell them and then show them an example of what you expect to see. Better yet, do this in the beginning and save both parties time and effort. The more you communicate the better things go. Its also important to have a contract that spells out the individual parts and pieces of the project. www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 41

Jason Matthews of High Country Renovators graduated from East Carolina University with a degree in Construction Management. Jason now lives in Boone with his wife and son where he calls on his 15 years of commercial and residential carpentry experience to manage High Country Renovators. For more information call 828-406-1391.

High Country Home Magazine: What mistakes by Homeowners do you most frequently encounter during a renovation?

Jason Matthews, High Country Renovators: A lot of homeowners have their idea of what certain renovations will cost or should cost. However most of the time they overlook the little things such as dust control, flooring protection, weather protection, Job site set up and clean up, construction debris removal, Cost of permits, Builders General Liability and Workers Comp Insurance just to name a few. All of these items quickly add up and are all a part of the total cost of the renovation. Determine what you can spend on a renovation and then sit down with your contractor to determine what is realistic. Have a list of items you absolutely have to have and items that you could do without.

High Country Home Magazine: Should a homeowner ever think about moving to temporary housing during the renovation?

Jason: Depends on the type of renovation, location in the house, and length of renovation. For example, if it is a complete kitchen renovation with new floors, cabinets, counter tops, etc... then the homeowner may want to consider alternate housing or at least a temporary kitchen to use during the renovation.

Talk to your contractor to help you figure out the best scenario for you and your family. For a less invasive renovation it is probably safe to stay in the home.

High Country Home Magazine: Should a Homeowner make cosmetic changes (ie. new paint, new wallpaper) before or after the renovation?

Jason: In most cases the painting and wall paper should be done in conjunction with the renovation. However items like towel holders, toilet paper holders, etc... should be completed after the renovation or at least toward the end so these items

won't get in the way or damaged during the project. Make sure before any work is started that the contractor knows you want to handle the painting / wallpaper and they can schedule it accordingly, so it doesnt impede the construction schedule.

High Country Home Magazine: Should a homeowner renovate if they are considering selling the house?

Jason: If there are definite items that may show up on the home inspection list then it may be a good time to go ahead and take care of some of these items.

However if your just doing a renovation for your wants, you may want to consider a renovation that will help sell the house as well as be good for the people that are looking to buy. Kitchens & baths are where the homeowner will get the most bang for the buck. Also consult with your realtor to get their feed back and keep them in the loop on what your trying to accomplish.

High Country Home Magazine: What steps should a Homeowner take to get ready for a renovation?

Jason: First and foremost make sure the contractor is Licensed and Insured.

Request to have copies of their License and Workers Comp and General Liability Insurance certificates faxed or mailed to you. Check their references and some of their work to see if it is up to your standards. Once you've settled on a contractor, get the necessary paperwork for all building permits and health department permits filled out and turned in. The Building department will review the permit and tell you if you need to provide more information. They usually have a short turn around time on getting the approved permits back to you. The health department permit is a little more complicated because you may need to go down to the county courthouse and research plats and other court documents which can take 2 weeks to over a month, so get started early.

Mickey Spell owner operator of Fine Home Builders Inc. is a 1997 graduate of Appalachian State University, 15 year resident of Boone. and 11 year experienced Carpenter.Fine Home Builders is a young company that strives to build stable, long lasting relationships with clients through honest hard work, fair pricing and mutual respect for others. For more info call 828-964-1994 or visit finehomebuilders-nc.com.

High Country Home Magazine: What questions are you most frequently asked

by Homeowners seeking to renovate their home?

Mickey Spell, Fine Home Builders: The type of questions I am most frequently asked are in regards to ideas and suggestions on aesthetics, material choices and feasibility of certain projects.

Homeowners almost always have an idea of what they do or don't want, but often have trouble seeing some of the specific details. And often, they might not see certain issues that can make the project more difficult, and more costly. Overall, homeowners seem to want a builder's advice on the project they have begun dreaming up so that they too, can start to determine the pros and cons of any project, as well as, start to get an idea of what financial and time obligations they may be in for.

High Country Home Magazine: If planning a renovation what questions should be answered before you consult a professional?

Mickey: The best questions for a homeowner to answer before consulting a professional are the ones that help them understand what they do like and what they don't like. I am more than happy to work with homeowners in the design process, however, the design process goes much smoother if the homeowner has given as much thought as possible into what he or she does and doesn't like. Looking through magazines and on line sources of project ideas is a great start for any homeowner. Also, visiting local retailers to find out what is readily available locally, contributes greatly to any project's planning and overall efficiency. It seems, often, that the special order items can tend to slow down any project if not ordered well in advance.

High Country Home Magazine: If you could pass on just one piece of advice to a homeowner thinking about renovating

what would that be?

Mickey: First and foremost, ask yourself what are your intentions with the home.

If you plan to sell the home within a few years, then, I recommend considering the projects that will make your home easier to sell and add the most to the homes value. If it is your intention to live in the home for many years to come, then forget about resale values, and curbside appeal, and start focusing on what it is that will make you love the home that much more.

High Country Home Magazine: How many renovation contractors should you contact for estimates to insure you have a solid estimate?

Mickey: To answer this question, the homeowner needs to consider how they came upon the contractor's name. If the homeowner is calling contractors based on advertising, then I would recommend calling three contractors, which is a very standard number. However, in my opinion, you would be better off calling one contractor and checking references of past and current clients, than you would be calling three contractors and never checking any references. Now, if you are recommended some contractors, I feel that only one or two contractors need to be contacted in order to receive a fair estimate, assuming you trust the person who recommended the contractor(s) to you.

High Country Home Magazine: Should Homeowners consult with an Interior Designer before deciding on a renovation?

Mickey: Usually, that is relative to the size of the project, the available budget and the homeowners' comfort level in envisioning the final product.

Certainly, hiring an interior designer is going to streamline the overall project's performance, and leave little to no doubt what the final project will look like.

Green Remodeling

...with character Gum Ridge Mill explains the many benefits of using reclaimed wood in your remodeling projects.

A century old cotton mill, an 1850s High Country grist mill, an 1860s hewn oak log cabin nestled in a high mountain meadow, and one of the many scenic, but forgotten barns that dot the High Country’s mountainside‌all historic, all contributed to the survival of a country, a community, or a family, and all are either slated for demolition to make way for the new or are now forgotten and slowly crumble back to the earth.

However, you have an option, to bring

this history, charm, and reclaimed wood into our next remodeling project.

Benefits of Green Green remodeling/building frequently involves applications that are buried under the floors, behind the walls or above the ceiling. These applications improve heating/cooling efficiency, reduce energy needs, reduce volatile compound emissions, and inevitably reduce the impact that remodeling, building, and

living have on the environment. These features may give you peace of mind and make it inviting to take your jacket off every night. However, there’s one green product that will knock your socks off as you’re welcomed home each night… reclaimed wood.

Patina…Character…Historic…

Vintage…Timeless…Charm…

Let’s add some new descriptors to your next remodeling project. These words may not describe the new technology and materials of green building.

However, reclaimed materials from dismantled vintage structures will lend definition to these words. Reclaimed material includes brick, stone (rough and quarried), roofing tin, but most frequently wood. There’s a reclaimed wood choice to match every taste.

Formal: Vertical grain heart pine remilled from 100-150 year old textile mill or tobacco warehouse timbers is characterized by deep burgundy and a grain that is so tight, at times it’s difficult to distinguish individual growth rings.

Imagine the size of the tree needed to yield a 13 inch x 15 inch x 24 foot timber…without a knot!

Country: Wide plank floor boards, ranging from 6 – 12 inches wide, offer a distinct country feel. Reclaimed white pine, heart pine, yellow pine, among others, offer a rich, unique patina that can only be achieved by 100 years of aging. The saw marks from the boards’ original milling add a new dimension of rustic charm. Boards may be facenailed with cut nails, from America’s oldest nail manufacturer, which still uses its original 1820’s machinery.

Mountain: Rustic elegance, only achieved by a century of wind, sun, rain, and snow, will welcome you home everyday. Most readily available reclaimed mixed oak, white oak, and chestnut have rich and deep patinas of brown. Reclaimed walnut, maple, and cherry are also available in 2 – 12 inch wide floor boards. Additional rustic charm, patina, texture, and age come with preserving the saw marks from the original milling.

Flooring…Timbers…and OH MY!

Stairs…

Flooring, timbers, and stairs are just a sampling of what can be produced from reclaimed woods. Add kitchen cabinets

and other built-ins, free-standing furniture (farm table, bench, side-board, desk, etc…) tongue and groove paneling/ ceiling, trim, and the list is only limited to your imagination and the number of idea pages torn from magazines. The “OH MY!” is the bonus that you, your guests, and future home buyers get when reclaimed wood is used.

Walk in the Past Reclaimed wood honors the original mountain craftsmen who felled the trees, milled the boards, and built the structures from which the wood is reclaimed. Antique woods are reclaimed from structures that have outlived their usefulness and are either scheduled for demolition or abandoned, eventually to collapse and decay. Walk into a century old barn and imagine the family that built it and survived with it. The barn was built from wood timbered from or near the building site, or brought in from the local sawmill. The boards were cut, the nails were hammered, and these stout buildings were erected without power tools. Imagine 100 years ago, that in a 2-foot snow and temperatures in the teens, the mountain family hunkered down in the barn to milk the cow and

feed their small collection of animals, which were necessary for the family’s survival. Imagine also the community grist mill, which not only ground the corn for the locals, but also served as the community grocery store, post office, casket company, and gathering place.

Reclaimed wood will add a piece of our Blue Ridge history to your home and begin a new chapter in the wood’s life, to be enjoyed for generations.

High Country Resource for Reclaimed Wood Nestled into our country’s oldest mountains, close to the banks of our oldest river, you’ll find some of our oldest woods regaining new life. Gum Ridge Mill & Flying Pig Furniture, a custom woodshop located in Fleetwood, Ashe County, offers flooring, paneling, ceiling, staircase components, timbers, custom furniture, farm tables, custom cabinets, and gift items from reclaimed wood.

Each piece is handcrafted with care to reflect their historic past. For additional information and to visit, contact Ken Sevensky, owner and craftsman, at 336877-8888, info@gumridgemill.com, and www.GumRidgeMill.com .

48 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

HomeGuide Discussions on and resources for the kitchen and bath, design and decor, outdoor living, and landscaping.

Nine Mistakes To Avoid When Designing Your New Kitchen • 49 / Cosmetic Surgery • 56 / Out With The Old • 60 Easier In 2010 • 62 / Benefits Of A Central Vacuum • 66 / A Better Way To View Your World • 68 / Timber!!! • 70

9

Mistakes To

Avoid When

Designing

Your New

Kitchen

WRITTEN BY DAVE PARKS

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 49

Dave Parks, of Distinctive Kitchens And Baths in Foscoe shares some common mistakes that homeowners make when designing a kitchen and better yet, provides both solutions to these mistakes.

Photos are the actual work of Distinctive Kitchens And Baths and represent the beautiful final product when these nine mistakes are avoided.

M

uch has been written about the numerous things you should do when you are designing your new dream kitchen. Below are nine common mistakes you want to avoid.

1. Having too little light – a kitchen needs layers of lighting.

General lighting is often provided by can lights, and provides an even light level, especially in the walkways. Task lighting lights the work areas, and ensures the cook does not have to work in their own shadow. Think about ambient lighting that creates the atmosphere you want, especially if it is an eat-in kitchen.

50 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Pendant lights over a counter, or a chandelier over an island will create a mood, and unlike cans, will cast light onto the ceiling as well.

2. Having too much light – so you’ve followed all the best advice, and now you have multiple layers of light in your space.

You often end up with a lot of cans in the ceiling just so you can get those halogen pendants you want over the peninsula. Don’t forget to add dimmers! Especially if you are using compact fluorescent lighting . Even though they are more expensive, use dimmable fluorescent cans.

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 51

3. Forgetting to focus – a kitchen with no particular focal point can be boring, and one with too many competing focal points can be too busy. Think about where you want the visual emphasis in your kitchen to be, and make sure it really does stand out. Is it the cooking center with an interesting hood or backsplash? Is it a window, with a great view? (Consider also how it will look after dark) Or is it a wall or open shelves where you display art or something you collect?

4. Making it too quirky – no, I’m not contradicting myself. Make the kitchen your own. A good looking, well designed kitchen will add value to your life and to your home. But you should not make it a kitchen that most people couldn’t live with. If you are 6’9” tall, by all means plan some taller counters, but include some regular height counters too, so that smaller guests or assistants will have an area they can comfortably work in.

5. Losing track of the budget – it’s easy to get carried away with decisions about appliances, finishes, and materials as you visit showrooms and discover all the options that are available to you. Remember to keep your overall budget in mind and keep a list of everything that you will need. Appliances usually get chosen first, as your designer cannot design the cabinet layout until they have been picked – and as a result there is a tendency to spend too large a proportion of the budget on them. Don’t get to the end of the process and discover you can’t afford the backsplash material you really want, or those dimmers for the can lighting. And remember to allow at least 20% for contingencies.

6. Sticking too closely to the budget – sometimes, people make decisions because their project budget has reached a certain number and they’re just not comfortable exceeding it. Now I’m certainly not advocating spending money you just don’t have, but I know that people don’t stand in their finished kitchen three years later and say, “Oh, if only I had saved that $500 there, or that $750 here”. But they might well say, “I wish I had bought the granite slab/ pantry cabinet/quiet dishwasher that I really wanted, because it’s too late to tear this one out now”.

7. Playing it too safe – so many people are concerned about resale, even if they have no plans to resell anytime soon. They end up designing their kitchen for the next owner.

But they don’t even know the next owner! This is a good way to end up with a dull, safe kitchen that you don’t particularly enjoy, and when the next owner does eventually come along, they tear it all out because it is not to their taste anyway 8. Failing to trust yourself or your designer – otherwise known as “design by committee.” Do you ask everyone you know, and even people you don’t know, how you should design your kitchen? Are you constantly confused with all the conflicting advice you get? Always changing your mind about layout and materials? No doubt your friends and your neighbors and your Aunt Gwen and your husband’s cousin Dora all have plenty of opinions and advice to share – but this is not their kitchen. Are they professional, qualified, designers? You have to trust yourself, or find a professional you trust and work with them. Deep down inside you know what you like – and a skilled professional can help you pin down your style and express it.

Finally, and most importantly, 9. Failing to enjoy the process. Yes, that’s right, I said enjoy it. If you are planning wisely and designing for the long term, you probably won’t get to do this too many times in your life. So take your time, do your research, and enjoy the chance to make all these important, but definitely not life threatening decisions. Working closely with your design professional, your project can be fun and rewarding. The finished product will be a beautiful, functional kitchen that you and your family will enjoy for many years.

Dave Parks is owner of Distinctive Kitchens & Baths, located on Highway 105 in the Shoppes at Twin Rivers. You may contact him or one of their kitchen and bath designers at 828.963.9633 or by visiting www.boonekitchensandbaths.com.

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54 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 55

Cosmetic A

WRITTEN BY COLLEEN LUNTZEL

s the plane takes off, I flip through the in-flight catalog and realize it’s the same old catalog I’ve been flipping through for years. Really, does anybody actually buy that stuff?

You know… the life-size, resin garden zombie… the traction device that you hook up to a door jam, put your head in the halter, and ratchet up... the emergency, absolutely necessary in the event of fire, rope ladder to throw out your window for escape… (um, we’re on an airplane) and oh yeah, the European age defying treatment, guaranteed to make you look years younger. Most of it’s the corniest, dumbest stuff I’ve ever seen, but I admit it… like a fish after a sparkly lure, I go straight for the bait every time.

Leaning slightly sideways, I pull the catalog close to keep my neighbor from seeing what I’m interested in. Of course it doesn’t work. Before I can study the before and after pictures, the person seated next to me is as engrossed in the miraculous product as I am.

Together, this perfect stranger and I marvel at the dramatic results of the age defying product, as if we’ve never seen anything like it—until we get to the part about the tape. Ah… the tape. According to the ad, if you just pull your face up and tape it back behind your ears with the European age defying tape, the years will disappear.

In my peripheral vision, I notice my nextdoor stranger subconsciously lift his hand to the hair line above his ear and push up flabby, excess skin until miraculously, a rugged jaw line emerges. I can’t help glancing over. He looks firmer…younger.

I cram the catalog into the seat pocket in front of me and clench my hands together in my lap--willing myself not to pull up my own face. I mean, even if you did tape up your face… oh never mind.

The fact that people would even fleetingly consider taping up their faces tells me

Surgery (on your home)

something. People are vain. Who doesn’t want to look good, anyway? Nobody, that’s who, and let’s face it, everybody and everything eventually sags. Whether cinching up your face or your old chenille slipper chair—tape (even the best European brands) can only do so much.

So where does that leave us? Cosmetic surgery, that’s where. Now, before you get panicky, I’m talking primarily about interior design. There just comes a time to consider taking extreme measures regarding beauty in your home.

So, how do you know if your home needs a face-lift? Well… If gravity seems stronger than it used to and your chairs are sagging in unflattering places… if your upholstery has lost its color and is going gray… if the joints in your couch groan in rebellion each time you sit… if nothing takes the age-spots off your counters… if the wrinkles just won’t come out of anything anymore… it’s time for drastic measures.

But drastic measures don’t always mean trading in the old for the new. Sometimes the best things in our lives have a little age on them. As I see it, aging is a mixed blessing. On the one hand, as time passes, what was once crisp and new loses its luster. On the other hand, comfort begins to carry greater significance in our lives.

Outrageous, unpredictable displays of youth slowly fade--replaced by satisfying rituals and routine. Insecurities are set aside for confidence. Rash compulsiveness matures into sensible stability. What’s important changes and I for one, am glad.

But beauty needn’t wane with age. After all, who wants to live in surroundings where things have begun to unravel and the wear and tear of use exposes threadbare fragility?

Everything sags, warps, and wrinkles up with age. The question is: is there anything you can do about it, and if so, what?

Take an unemotional, critical assessment of your surroundings. I say unemotional because objects with sentimental value may need to be re-purposed and rejuvenated. If you’ve got ratty old things tugging on your heart strings that you just can’t bear to give up, give them a little cosmetic surgery and a new lease on life.

There’s not much that’s more satisfying than taking something long past its prime and rejuvenating it into a thing of beauty.

Let’s say you’re attempting a little cosmetic surgery on your dining room but you’re stuck. You have a table, but you need a hutch, and you want new chairs.

Do you go to the furniture store and buy something? Well… maybe, but maybe not. First off, no matter what you’ve been told about keeping the same wood and type of wood in a room, discard that advice. I know, that’s a bold thing to say, but too much matchy-matchy feels a bit contrived. The days of dining room suites, bedroom suites, and living rooms suites?

A thing of the past. Oh, you can buy them all right, but do you want to? Different types and tones of wood create interest in a room, adding depth and character.

Mix it up, then pull it together and create uniformity through scale and the general feel of the room.

Instead of automatically thinking “Hutch” for that blank wall, why not find a really great old lowboy dresser? Paint it, cover it in mirror tile, encrust it with seashells, or veneer it with birch bark and replace the old hardware. Bank it with lamps, group together crystal or cut glass, heap fresh flowers in a vase and nestle alongside.

Hang artwork, a beveled mirror or a shelf for displaying additional treasures above.

If you don’t have a lowboy, hunt for one at a local thrift store or garage sale. It’s not that I’m against hutches; I just want you to know you have options. You can get the same function of a hutch, using a piece of furniture you might not associate with a dining room. The same applies to other spaces in your home. Pulling in an unexpected piece of furniture can add drama and present a fresh new take on traditional design.

If you don’t have chairs that match your table, or even each other, that’s ok. The key to successfully integrating different

chairs around a table is making sure you have uniformity through the scale and feel of the chairs and the room. In other words, an oak pressed-back chair wouldn’t be the best compliment to an oak captain’s chair in your new Country French room--even though they’re both oak and they’re both casual. However, an oak pressed-back chair may look fabulous--painted out, cushioned and skirted--with a rush seated, ladder-back walnut chair. If the size, scale and feel are similar, you can get a complimentary look by altering color if necessary or even adding upholstery.

Recovering or slipping old upholstery is another way to liven up a room using what you already have. Fabric stores have patterns and instructions for slipping.

It’s not that hard to do and you’ll feel a real sense of accomplishment by doing it yourself.

Whether you’re re-purposing coffee tables into ottomans, or ottomans into coffee tables, the list of what you can do with a little cosmetic surgery on the furnishings of a room is almost endless.

But don’t overlook cosmetic surgery in the room itself. How about texturing your walls and giving them a wash with the colors of a Moroccan sunset, or dusty autumn herbs? What about wainscoting your room with burlap, cork, bark or bead-board? Throwing a rug on the floor isn’t your only option for what’s under your feet. Consider painting a rug or a pattern on a wood floor, or tiling a mosaic in the center of a room. Think about the possibility of using flagstone or brick for your floors. Once you’ve made your flooring decision, look up. Ceilings are a great place to incorporate drama into a space. Faux beams, etched mirrors, mini frescos... a little pizzazz, or a lot… where ceilings are concerned, the sky’s the limit.

Pulling off a successful interior facelift requires creativity, time, budgetary considerations and realistic expectations.

And don’t think you can skimp. There’s not much worse than a face-lift gone wrong—on a person or a house. You want results from a best case scenario--where friends whisper admiringly, “She’s had something done.”

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 59

Old OUT WITH THE

WRITTEN BY BRETON FRAZIER

I

s your house full of things you couldn’t live without and haven’t used since?

Then thank Old Man Winter for giving you some extra indoor time to banish those cold weather blues and boost your spirits.

Reclaim your space, restore order and create openness. How? The DeClutter Diva offers these ideas to get you started.

Find a place you can keep an attractive, open container for collecting items to donate. Charities and non-profits are particularly hard hit on the heels of the holidays.

Sometimes the challenging part isn’t deciding to let go of something but getting it to the donation site.

Resolve to get those things out of the house when that container is full. The relief you’ll feel is well worth the hassle and you’ll be doing a good turn, too.

If you use Schedule A to itemize your income tax, get a dated receipt from the organization with a signature. Attach a list of the donated objects. Come up with a fair market value based on what IRS calls “the price buyers of used items actually pay” at thrift stores, used clothing shops or consignment stores. The IRS stipulates that your donation be “good used condition or better”. See www.irs.gov Contribution of Property--Publication 526 and Determining Fair Market Value--Publication 561. You may need to file Form 8283 for Non-Cash Contributions. This can mean a substantial deduction at tax time, but check with your tax preparer or C.P.A. for more information.

Take some time to review your books, videos, CD’s, and DVD’s. Yes, it’s time to say goodbye to all those old cassette tapes. Consider donating to your local library. Again, if you want 60 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

a tax deduction, make a list of the title and the type of item. Is the book paper or hardback? Is it a music CD? A movie DVD? What did you pay for it new? Even if you only claim 20% of the original cost, your donation amount can be considerable.

There may be a volunteer friends of the library group that sells donated items to raise funds for new purchases. If there isn’t, why not think about starting a group in your area? Libraries have experienced deep budget cuts. A book sale once or twice a year is simple to organize and a win-win for your community.

Ask the library for a place to store the accumulating sale items.

Did you know it’s estimated that there are $3,500 of sellable things in the average American home today? If you’re willing to spend some time and effort, you could rake in some cold, hard cash.

Online resources seem to have supplanted daily newspaper classifieds. Try free websites such as Craig’s List. Of course, there are the online pay-tosell auctions, like eBay. It’s easier than you think to set up your own web store and reach a vast market.

Or sign up free with SwapItGreen.com. List stuff you want to trade and when another member ‘buys’ your item, you earn points to buy things you want.

The object is to remove your stuff, keep it out of a landfill and put it into eager hands. I guarantee the space you create will bring you joy and wonderful new things into your life.

Email your organizing questions to: theDeClutterDiva@gmail. com. For more information, visit: www.DeClutterDiva.vpweb. com Breton Frazier, the DeClutter Diva, lives in St. Augustine, Florida, and works organizing individuals and businesses.

Benjamin Moore

©

Boone Paint & Interiors, Inc.

• Your neighborhood FULL SERVICE, INDEPENDENT Paint & Decorating Stores • Exclusive Distributors of Benjamin Moore Paints Boone Paint & Interiors

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Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Boone Paint at Banner elk

w w w.B o o n e Pa I n t.co M www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 61

Tips to making life easier, greener, less complicated and more organized in

2010 WRITTEN BY ELIZABETH SHUKIS

The topsy-turvy roller coaster ride of 2009 is behind us, but hopefully we havent forgotten the many lessons of the year. One of which is that we all need to be more saavy with our time, effort, and our budget. So to help you get a great start to 2010, here is a large-and-in-charge list of some cool tips that are guaranteed to make you the saaviest in the neighborhood. Oh, and the best part is...some of these tips are green, so you can save time, effort, and money while saving the world!

• Save business reply envelopes from junk mail and use the back for grocery lists. Your coupons will fit nicely inside the envelope and you won’t have to worry about losing them

removed, wipe them down with white vinegar to give them a final shine.

• Eating a teaspoon of sugar gets rid of hiccups in a flash

• Hang a shoe bag on the back of the bathroom door for extra storage. Perfect for washcloths, extra toiletries, and other small items that cause clutter in the bathroom.

• Need to wrap a monster size gift? Don’t waste time and expensive wrapping paper.

Buy a colorful paper tablecloth.

• Store partially full paint cans upside down. The paint will form an airtight seal, extending its useful life.

• Spray your measuring cup or spoon with non stick cooking spray before measuring out molasses, honey or peanut butter… the ingredient will pour out easier and clean up will be a snap

• Half a dryer sheet works as well as a whole one. Cut those babies in half before using, if you must.

• To preserve the finish of your washer and dryer, wax them with car wax twice a year • Be sure to keep your freezer packed full to consume the least amount of energy.

As your food is depleted, fill gaps with plastic jugs filled with water, You will accomplish a keep it full technique and have a good supply of fresh water in the event of power failure • Mineral oil will remove stubborn soap scum from your shower doors. Once

• Forget to check the batteries in the smoke detector? Get in the habit of replacing them at daylight savings time.

• To clean louvered doors, dampen a disposable foam paintbrush and wipe between the slats • Dab a little petroleum jelly on your keys and move them in and out of your locks to keep them working in the winter.

Petroleum jelly will not freeze • Burnt food in a pot or pan? Pour enough ammonia to cover the bottom of the pan, tie a plastic grocery bag around it and let it sit overnight. In the morning, uncover

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and rinse…it will be all cleaned up without any mess.

• Do a 5 minute pickup every night before going to bed.

• Keep a colander in the sink and scrape plates into it at dishwashing time. Liquids go down the drain instead of in your wastebasket

• Vacuum your refrigerator coils. An easy way to help your fridge run more efficiently is to clean the coils, which dissipate heat from the fridge. If they're covered with dust or caked-on "grunge," they can't work the way they should, and your fridge will run longer and more often

• Cut the finger tip from an old rubber glove and slip it over the end of your broom handle. Now it won’t slip when leaned against a wall • Spray the inside of a mayonnaise jar white. Store it in the refrigerator as a hiding place for money or valuables • Drain your hot water heater once per year to get all the gunk and sediment out. Not only will a clean one run more efficiently, but it'll last longer, saving you even more dough • Store an opened , fragrant bar of soap in a suitcase to prevent musty odors from forming during storage • A heavy layer of dust on an item is a sign you aren’t using it. Give it a new home • Clear kitchen countertops and only put back what you use twice a week. Store everything else in cabinets and drawers.

• Avoid labeling files and folders miscellaneous. If it isn’t important enough to have its own label, it either belongs in another folder or it’s not important enough to save.

• In 10 minutes or while you are cooking dinner you can…

- Start a load of laundry - Put a load of laundry in the dryer - Fold 1 load of laundry - Iron a few shirts - Clean out your wallet or purse - Write a quick thank you note - Unload the dishwasher - Clean out the junk drawer - Wipe down cabinets in the kitchen - Wipe down glass or French doors • Never leave a room without picking something up and putting it away • You can stay on top of your home and organizational skills with 15 min a day

Some deals and steals to help you in the NEW YEAR… • Never pay to rent a DVD again. Each Monday, you can get a free rental code for a Redbox rental. You can use it once per debit or credit card. So if you carry a lot of plastic, you can load up on freebies.

Get the codes by signing up at www. insideredbox.com , which is free.

• For one-stop shopping on which iTunes downloads are currently free, check out www.freeitunessongs.blogspot.com.

• Every degree your thermostat goes over 68 costs you 3 percent of your heating bill. So try turning the heat down just a little while you're home. According to the Department of Energy, dialing back the thermostat 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours at a time saves 10 percent on heating and cooling bills. You can also turn the furnace down to 62 degrees at night, since you're all cozy in your bed.

•Don't ever pay for directory assistance.

1-800-FREE-411 will give you a free residential or business listing after you listen to a short ad. 1-800-GOOG 411 even connects you for free after giving you the number. 1-800-555-TELL is great for business numbers - but say "business" right away or you'll have to listen to a bunch of other options. Save them all in your cell phone to save some cash.

Well, there’s a great start for 2010, but if you feel like I left any ideas out or if you have any tips or helpful suggestions on how to save time, effort, or money and make your life less complicated please send them to highcountryhomemagazine@gmail.com and we may even print them! Also, check back every quarter to see what new tips and ideas I have for you.

WHY INSTALL A

V Vacuum Central

Whether you live in a townhome or a log cabin, a big home or a small one, you can reap the many benefits including cleanliness, health, convenience, and value when you install a central vacuum system.

• A Beautiful Clean Home!

Today’s homes, even with all their advanced technology, continue to get dirty and dusty. The central (built-in) vacuum can make total house cleaning less of a chore and more efficient.

• Powerful Deep Cleaning Its powerful motor and large air flow allow the central vacuum to pick up deep-down dirt, dust and debris, even microscopic particles like pollen, mold spores and dust mites. Coupled with powerful electric cleaning brush heads, central vacuums clean deeper than other common home vacuums. The electric floor brush, for example, features a very strong motor and deep-cleaning roller brush. It digs through carpet, picking up everything in its path. Say good-bye to that old upright kicking up the dirt, and making it dusty in the room.

Central vacuums can completely remove the lifted dirt and dust from the living space, making it cleaner, fresher, & easier to breathe.

• Convenience No heavy equipment to haul around or maneuver around furniture and up the stairs. No cords caught on table legs. The lightweight hose and attachments are all you’ll need. Conveniently-placed inlets allow quick and easy cleaning of the entire house.

• Improved Indoor Air Quality Because a central vacuum pulls dust and dirt out of living areas, it is not recirculated back into the living space and air you breathe. The tiniest of particles are whisked away to the power unit located in a garage, basement or storage area.

• Relief for Allergy Sufferers Unlike poor filtering portable vacuums that re-circulate air back into the living space, the central vacuum can effectively remove dust mites, pollen, mold spores, pet dander and other allergens from the indoor environment with exhaust vented to the outdoors.

• Home Value Increases A central vacuum adds value to a home and can increase resale of the average home by at least $1500 or more. Like other built-in appliances, it is an excellent selling feature.

• Cost A complete central vacuum system can be professionally installed in the average home for less than the cost of some name-brand portable vacuum cleaners. Because it is designed to provide efficient cleaning for as much as 20 years or more, a central vacuum is a bargain.

For more information about installing a central vacuum system in your home contact A1Vacuum Solutions in Boone, NC at (828) 264-1515.

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www.homeresourcecarolina.com • High Country Home Magazine • 67

A

better way

to view your world WRITTEN BY RICHARD ANDERSON

W

indow and Door Specialists in Foscoe is the High Country’s only full-service supplier solely committed to that niche within the building supply community. With a staff of four, they have a combined total of over 70 years in the construction industry.

They have the experience with this unique environment to meet all code requirements while fulfilling your design needs. Their primary window and door suppliers are Hurd and Atrium, two companies with a track record of producing quality products.

Brothers William and Harry Hurd started their business to manufacture cheese boxes for the dairy industry in Wisconsin. By 1919, they had shifted their focus to windows and other millwork products. During the great depression, Hurd suffered a fire which destroyed six out of 11 buildings. A fire in 1949 was nearly as bad. The company rebuilt and retooled with the technology that set the stage for rapid growth. With 800 train cars & 25,000,000 feet of lumber per year by 1957, Hurd was flourishing. When Harry retired in 1965 after 46 years in the millwork business, Hurd was widely recognized for its fine craftsmanship in the millwork business. Hurd began manufacturing wood patio doors and later added a full line of aluminum clad wood windows. Hurd introduced the glass technology that offered energy efficiency as well as UV block and noise reduction. In 1998 they developed a system that enables glass variation for each room according to its exposure to the elements. In 2005, they introduced products with coastal inpact glass and soon after that, the first clear glass treatment with 99.9% UV protection. The new Millennium has provided both challenges and opportunities. Hurd is now a global supplier of superior quality window and door products. As

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America has faced the challenges of difficult economic realities, Hurd has responded with reorganization and outside investment to weather this business climate as robustly as their windows and doors can stand up to Mother Nature.

Founded in 1948, Atrium has an uncontested reputation for quality, selection and service with an interdependent balance between the responsibility to customers and employees. In the past decade, Atrium has grown from approximately 1,000 employees serving the Southwest markets, to over 7,000 employees in 80 manufacturing and distribution centers in 23 states. Today, Atrium is the largest manufacturer of vinyl and aluminum windows and patio doors in North America. Diverse product lines are available in a broad range of styles and price points to meet the needs and preferences of diverse customers. Your Atrium windows are manufactured in North Carolina providing jobs to our area while keeping lead times short and costs low.

T imber!!!

T T he Christmas day ice storm is behind us and the damage it left behind can be seen across the Blue Ridge. To help with the High Country’s recovery we have found several tips that could be very helpful.

1. Before you start removing trees, survey the area around your specific tree and select the best place for the tree to fall. The best place for a tree to fall is on an uphill slope because the falling trunk will not develop as much impact speed.

If this is not possible look for an open space, where the impact will not threaten your home, other trees that are alive, or anything else of importance.

2. If you can drop the tree into deep snow it is suggested. The snow will act as a cushion for the tree and will catch its fall. Landing the tree or trees in snow will also prevent your lawn and soil from being damaged.

3. Before you start to remove the tree, clear the snow away from the trunk of the tree. This will allow you to cut your trees at their base. Clear a path that intersects with the direction the tree

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is expected to fall so you can get out of the way as the tree falls without being slowed by the deep snow.

4. When you start the removal process do not stand directly behind the tree as it is a dangerous place to be because the tree may kick back when it falls.

5. Try to do your tree removal on a calm day. You will be able to see the tree sway prior to toppling, which will significantly lower the chance of the tree falling where you don't want it to fall. Use a rope attached to a stable object to help sway the tree in the direction you choose.

6. Do not remove trees alone. A partner can help signal when the tree is beginning to fall so you have adequate time to move away.

7. Always have the proper gear like work gloves and boots. Make sure your chain saw, is prepared for the work by servicing it regularly.

8. If you need help don’t be afraid to seek a professional like McKee Tree Service at 828-898-3615 or Hunters Tree Service at (828) 733-3320.

DesignProfiles Explore the beautiful homes and communities of the High Country

Luxurious, sustainable, and modern.

Winter's design profiles have something for every reader. www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 73

RCD 1

Tailor made WRITTEN BY KATIE HENDERSON Photos by Rachel Strombeck

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RCD Construction and owner Randy Strombeck proudly introduce the Gatti House, a nearly 7,000 foot masterpiece nestled in the new luxury Reynolds Blue Ridge community.

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O

verlooking peaceful countryside, nestled along the Blue Ridge Mountains, rests Peter and Sandy Gatti’s picturesque getaway retreat. Settled high above the foothills of Watauga County, the nearly 7,000 squarefoot home is a prime example of mountain luxury and artistic craftsmanship. The Gatti’s home is one of the first to be completed in Reynolds Blue Ridge a 6,300 acre development full of rich architecture and lavish design. In deciding where to build their new home, Reynolds Blue Ridge was an obvious choice for the Gattis, balanced between the High Country and the foothills, with incomparable facilities for the entire family to enjoy. Now a Reynolds Signature Community, Reynolds Blue Ridge Estate is limited to less than 1,500 houses, offering picturesque views of the Blue Ridge and unbelievable amenities. Upon completion, the development will boast a clubhouse, a championship, Reese 76 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Jones signature golf course, a multi-million dollar spa and fitness facility, fine dining, tennis courts, rock climbing, an equestrian center, and countless other activities for the entire family.

Upon cresting the winding road into Reynolds Blue Ridge, visitors are left speechless at the array of striking homes presented. Although the houses range in size and style, the entire development exudes opulent comfort. However, what makes the Gatti’s house so unique to the region is the creative detail and personalized touch that makes the house truly customized.

Randy Strombeck of RCD Construction was the creative mastermind behind the project, adding tailored features ranging from a Star Wars bedroom and a state of the art recording studio, to imported stone-carved fireplaces and magical tapestries to hide clutter. “When doing a custom home, [your clients] want your input and your expertise,” Randy said. “But getting to know a client and getting to know their tastes is so important-

RCD 4

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it’s almost an art form, I have an incredible team around me to make this a reality.” He believes that building relationships with his clients is just as imperative as knowing how to build the house. After compiling designs from previous houses, as well as adding new twists specifically for the Gatti family, Randy took the design to Boone architect Brent Davis who did all of the blueprints. “Brent was very integral in making the layout and everything work, he also added a lot of creative ideas himself” Randy said. “He does all of our architectural work. The design came out of my head and Brent made it work.” It is through this style of business that RCD Construction was able to find the perfect details for the Gatti family.

In order to ensure that each member of the family felt connected to the house, Randy along with his team designed a Star Wars themed bedroom for their son. With a custom paint job designed to look like you are sitting on the Death Star, the room is covered in far off galaxies, distant stars, and racing X-wings. The eye of the ship looks out over across the Blue Ridge mountains, as if the Death Star were about to land in the High Country. He even made a custom bed in the shape of a Tie Bomber.

While the Gatti’s son is dreaming of droids and light sabers 78 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

in his personalized bedroom, Peter can relax in his own private corner of the house. An old rock-head at heart, Peter had RCD Construction build a soundproof recording studio in the upstairs den, with full recording equipment and the latest instrument technology.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the Gatti’s installed a wine bar with a temperature-controlled wine room and pub-like feel. RCD Construction installed a progressive, online database, with a touch screen at the bar location. The technology has a scanner and small label printer for the bottles, as well as a program that tells what the wine is, vintage, cost, rating, what foods it is best consumed with, years for optimal consumption, and where that bottle is stored in the wine cellar.

Dropped beams, a dark finish, and a high bar with elevated stools all added to the atmosphere of the area.

Unwilling to compromise on security, the Gattis wanted a way to ensure that the home was protected while they are away. The family had a low-voltage mechanical system installed that runs throughout the house, connecting the security system, lights, heating and air, cameras, sound, and other unmentionable power systems. The controlled system can be operated by touch screens throughout the home or via laptop, PDA, or iPhone internet

connection around the world; this process not only conserves energy, but allows the family to check on the house at any time.

Besides custom rooms and modern technologies, it is the specific attention to high-end details that makes the Gatti’s home so magnificent. The walls are textured and glazed to look rustic and old, despite being brand new, providing additional warmth to the home. This effort adds a level of sophistication and value to the house, without adding too much in further costs. Randy also likes to eliminate clutter as much as possible to guarantee a more sleek design and more livable space for the family. He accomplishes this through small details like hiding electronics behind retractable, hanging tapestries and intricate wall designs for more hassle-free living.

One of a kind items also add to the luxury of a home. RCD Construction has several overseas sources for carved stone, and the Gatti’s were able to include as a specialty item in their house through a carvedstone fireplace. The fireplace, surrounded with the over mantle, was designed in the United States, carved out of sand stone in India, crated and shipped to the High Country, and then installed in the home by RCD Construction.

Randy and his associates at RCD Construction believe that honesty and clear communication are critical to making a dream house as much of a reality as possible. Randy believes in operating at the highest level of integrity and forming close relationships with his clients to ensure not only client satisfaction, but also to eliminate any miscommunication that may occur from unclear correspondence; these relationships are evident in the magnificent homes that he designs as well as the relationships he continues to hold. Although the Gatti home was completed in early 2009, Randy maintains close ties with the family and continues to spend time with them in the tailor-made home he designed and built.

The key to any customized home is making it customized to your family’s specific desires. With clear communication and a close relationship with your contractor, the house of your dreams can become a reality.

For more information on RCD Construction or Reynolds Blue Ridge, call 336-838-6701 or go to www. rcdconstruction.com Left Ellipse: Star Wars themed bedroom Right Ellipse: Second angle of amazing timber frame ceiling

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Baxter Norris Construction is responsible for this nearly 10,000 square feet masterpiece in one of the most upscale communities in the High Country.

On The Ridge

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architecture, country-western accessories, and state-of-the-art technology.

Featuring a total of four bedrooms and five and a half baths, the home is defined by elaborate natural materials, including distressed cypress posts, 8x8 pine beams, exposed structural timbers, and slate tile and cypress hardwood floors throughout.

Every ceiling in the total of 25 rooms features a timber frame or exposed beam.

Tongue and groove paneling offsets the timber edges in several of the main living areas.

The great room has an over-sized Virginia stone fireplace, sporting a concrete mantle. With raised ceiling to the upstairs and a view for miles, it is easy to see why this is a room full of comfort and luxury.

B

axter Norris Construction, Inc. built this beautiful home located in an upscale Blue Ridge community.

With 32 years of experience building homes in the mountains of North Carolina, Baxter Norris was excited to meet the needs of the homeowners’ mountain home. Designed by Bob Mann of Attic Design, the 9108 square foot home is a creative combination of rustic 82 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

A gazebo-style sunroom, featuring knockdown textured sheetrock, leads to the master suit. The master bath features non-finished granite counter tops, and a walk in shower separating his and her side of the bathroom. Prominent natural elements can be found throughout the master bedroom, including exposed timbers, stone, and tile; a gas fireplace provides romance and warmth to the room.

Separating the three floors of the house are full pine staircases, with decorative wood above and naturally twisted laurel wood handlebars; small cedar pieces are intertwined on the banister for a unique look. The downstairs features a walkin wine cellar with old English style doors and locks. The recreation space features a billiards table and indoor driving range simulation adjacent to the home entertainment room. One of the favorite rooms in the home, for owners and builders alike, the downstairs living room in enhanced with a retractable projection screen, pristine view of the mountains, and a custom fireplace. The Virginia fieldstone

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Baxter Norris 5

completes the distinctive look.

The top floor of the home features a sitting area with a built in cedar desk and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. An open bridge leads to the granny flat above the garage, which provides guests with a comfortable space of their own. A small kitchen, bathroom, sitting area, and bedroom provide the perfect accommodations for any visitors to the home.

Additional details really add comfort to the home, including top end appliances, walk in closets, a dog-washing bath, and a state of the art audio visual system. All lights, appliances, sound systems, and televisions can be controlled by a single remote, with over five miles of cable running through the home.

The custom saloon-style entertainment bar was handcrafted with the homeowner’s specific style in mind. One-of-a-kind bar stools, topped with Western riding saddles, add to the rich personality of the room. The bar-top granite counters are embellished with brass accents to emphasize the tack room feel.

Below the flat is another unique feature to the house. Custom garage doors are made to look like folding barn doors, but are essentially normal retractable garage doors. Outside materials include cedar and poplar shingles and siding, as well as cedar beam and cypress logs to the match the interior design. The natural tones of brown are accented by rich shades of hunter green. A pea gravel drive leads around the house and the landscape boasts a tailor-made waterfall, flowing to the base of an outdoor hot tub that overlooks the Blue Ridge and Grandfather Mountain.

Bathrooms are accented with full-tile showers, custom cabinetry, and even one of a kind sinks. One of the guest bathrooms features an original stump built into a pedestal to hold the deep bowl sink. A faucet emerging from the wall above

Baxter Norris Construction is a quality-oriented company, working to give High Country homeowners 100% satisfaction at the lowest cost. For more information on the home or Baxter Norris, please call (828) 297-3657.

fireplace accents the custom log mantle.

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Baxter Norris 6

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5

Headwaters Enterprises 1

Star

Luxury

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Headwaters Enterprises’ new home in the Councill Oaks gated community embodies efficient building techniques and green innovation while maintaining beauty and luxury.

C

WRITTEN BY KATIE HENDERSON Photos by Jonathan Burton

hase and Holly Ambler of Headwaters Enterprises, Inc. possess humble hearts and a green lifestyle that touches the community in more ways than one. With a passion for the outdoors and giving back to the community, the Amblers have provided an alternative in the custom home industry, with the most distinctive green technologies and a fresh design.

Headwaters Enterprises, Inc. strives for excellence through their mix of custom and spec homes throughout the High Country. The Amblers remain involved in every phase of the building project, subcontracting only as necessary to remain the most efficient; they intentionally kept their company small in order to maintain an active role, and remain loyal to the community through local buying and subcontracting.

The Ambler’s core values include not only buying locally, but also giving back to the community they call home. While reducing the amount of trees that must be removed, Chase finds a way to recycle the wood from clearing land. Cleared trees are given away as firewood, branches are ground up and returned to the soil, scrap wood from construction is given away as kindling, and all extra materials are donated to the Habitat ReStore.

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Headwaters Enterprises builds only a few homes each year, giving each the fine attention to detail and focus that each homeowner deserves. One such example of this innovation is located in the prestigious Councill Oaks Gated Community. The 4,747 square foot wood-frame home provides comfortable luxury centrally located near ASU and the downtown King Street area. The 92 acre upscale residential community

provides a 12 acre common area, walking trails, gorgeous mountain views, and underground utilities, all within the city limits of Boone.

The home provides a comfortable feel through vaulted ceilings, warm wall tones, and specialized iron work. Crafted

by Blue Mountain Metalworks, interior handrails feature an intricate design of rhododendron flowers, further promoting the natural feel of the home; the exterior

deck railings provide strong protection, with a luxurious look. The covered deck, as well as many other wood surfaces in the home, is composed of engineered wood products that are more efficient and use a greater portion of the tree. These materials are more efficient both on site and to create because they minimize waste and come from younger trees.

What makes this house truly special to both the Amblers and potential

homeowners is the overall green nature of the home. As an Energy Star qualified house, this home is expected to use 43% less energy than a similar new home built to meet the current state building code. This home received a 5 Star Plus rating from Energy Star, the highest rating given. This rating will provide the home owners with better performance, lower ownership costs, and superb environmental protection. Many little

details go into such an outstanding rating and provide an eco-friendly homeowner with a true peace of mind.

Starting from construction, all walls and ceilings in the home are packed with a blanket of the newest generation of high-performance, spray foam insulation, called Icynene, which exceeds building code requirements and surpasses the more commonly used insulation. Expanding to form a flexible foam layer, millions www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 89

of tiny air cells reduce drafts and energy costs by up to 50%. Icynene is derived from the castor plant; a vapor-permeable layer emits virtually zero greenhouse gases, helps to minimize moisture-related problems like mold or mildew, and seals the home from air leakage. Because of its superior performance, Headwaters has been using Icynene for the past 10 years.

The home is then accented with both hardwood and carpet flooring. The Mohawk Eagle Pass carpet is made 90 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

with Dupont “Smart Strand Fiber” using recycled plastic and corn. Mohawk Eagle Pass converts 3 billion plastic bottles into 170 million pounds of carpet fiber each year. The carpet core is made out of durable plastic mix of products like soft drink bottle caps and stretch film from shrink wrap.

Several pieces of furniture in this beautiful home were handcrafted by Designs In Wood, a local company who specializes in building custom pieces

from renewable and local lumber. For info about Designs In Wood call 336372-8995.

Two sealed gas log stone fireplaces eliminate air flow from the outdoors and provide a family room centerpiece for the family. 400 series Andersen windows and doors, made up of high performance double insulated glass with argon, also add to the warmth. While these are a more costly item during construction, the long-term benefits, both environmental

and economical, more than make up the difference.

There are other important details that provide a green nature to the home, including water conserving fixtures and faucets throughout, a sealed crawlspace to protect indoor air quality, and a high efficiency heat and air conditioning system with sealed ducts that include an electronic air filter and energy recovery ventilator. A tankless, on demand water heater saves energy by providing hot water

only when needed. The home is equipped with Energy Star appliances and fixtures throughout; essentially all lighting is florescent, with only 6 incandescent bulbs in the entire house. The majority of the upstairs lighting is provided through sky lights and sky columns, giving the home a natural glow.

bedrooms and five baths, a full, finished basement, and two car garage, the home has plenty of space for storage, hobbies, and relaxation. For an opportunity to view this home contact John Volpe at Century 21 Elliott Properties at 1-800-545-3649 or 828-265-6746.

Listed at $999,900, the Councill Oaks home has spacious closets and a comfortable floor plan, making this a perfect family home. Comprised of six www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 91

Modern

The

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Mountain Doug McGuire Construction adds a modern twist to a spectacular Blowing Rock home, truly showcasing their full repertoire of skills.

WRITTEN BY KATIE HENDERSON Photos by Stefan Olson

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T

he High Country is known for its rich heritage full of mountain tradition and southern hospitality, but Douglas L. McGuire Construction Company Inc. has taken a new approach, adding a modern twist to a Blowing Rock home. With the intensive hands on workings of Dixon Weinstein Architects from Chapel Hill, Doug and his crew were able to establish a very contemporary home just a couple of miles from the shopping and dining of downtown Blowing Rock.

From the first glance at the home, you can tell it will be a unique blend of natural colors and modern elegance. The rich cedar siding allows the home to blend in well with the wooded lot setting, accented by the half round aluminum guttering that provides the look of copper. Skeleton-style exposed rafters add to the ambiance of the outdoor setting as you enter the main door through a suspended steel bridge walkway.

As you first step into the home the pure quality of the structure

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is immediately evident. Highlighted with top quality materials and appliances, the home provides casual comfort while offering all the luxury of a high end house.

The open kitchen and living area is floored with quarter sewn oak (boards that are cut with the grain perpendicular to the surface) that extend throughout the main living areas of the home. The kitchen is surrounded by poured concrete counter tops, a natural stone tile back splash, and a custom walnut-slab island for extra storage and sitting space. The custom cherry cabinets that line the walls of the kitchen and living space stress the natural feel of the home, emphasizing quality and precision. With a hide-away refrigerator blending in, as well as the strong attribute of extra storage, the cabinets are an effective feature for the space.

The center piece of the living room is a full-wall Rumford style fireplace and slab hearth, accented with custom made screens

by Triplett & Coffey, Inc. of Perkinsville. Paralleling the wood floor is a Douglas fir timber frame ceiling by High Country

Timber Frame. Inspired by Gideon Ridge Inn in Blowing Rock, the frame is interlaced by 1x4 tongue and groove clear pine paneling, painted white to accent the timbers.

“We incorporated a timber frame look, which you typically wouldn’t see in a contemporary design,” said Doug McGuire.

“But in this house it works very well.”

To offset the mountain feel of the home, the entire rear of the house is ornamented with stacked Andersen windows, allowing access to the view of miles of Blue Ridge Mountains from the home’s backyard.

Off of the main living area of the home is the master suit, accessed through fold-in hideaway doors and smooth pocket doors to add to the sleek effect of the home. Birdseye maple accents a built-in desk and bookshelf, with brilliant natural light warming the entire room.

The master bath combines the most luxurious of technologies, including heated tile floors, an electric toilet, a steam shower, and

specialty sinks from the Canadian company Wet. The majority of the faucets throughout the house are manufactured by the German company Dornbracht, who specialize in contemporary accents for the home. A spacious walk-in closet off of the master bath provides plenty of dressing, as well as storage, space.

The remainder of the upstairs is enriched with natural materials and comfortable living space. Bathrooms are tailored with travertine and limestone blend floors and custom closets are

“I am really proud of this home because it gave us an opportunity to do something out of the norm, and at the same time, it really showed the diversity of our company. We can do whatever comes our way, and do it well. We can build houses of every shape and every size.”

- Doug McGuire www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 95

conventional in the two upstairs guest bedrooms. The backyard blue stone patio provides a trendy entertainment space, with a large wood-burning stone fire, and built in grill area.

As a transition into the downstairs area, stainless steel and cable rails flow into the basement recreation space. A reclaimed heart of pine timber frame ceiling and stone fireplace are offset by sealed concrete floors and a contemporary billiards table. A full workout room, additional bedroom and bathroom complete the basement living space.

“We enjoy all of the houses we do,” Doug said, “but this house was special.” It is easy to see what makes this house so distinctive with its trendy appliances and unique custom products from across the world. Blended colors and natural materials, such as ipe wood and blue stone, were also brought in from the outdoor architecture giving a rustic feel to the contemporary style.

The home also features state of the art technologies, including a superior sound system that runs throughout the entire house. A Crestron system, featuring sound for the stereos, televisions, and XM radio unit, also provides a top of the line security system throughout the property. Energy efficient florescent recessed lighting, high end insulation, and other green materials also add value to the home through its coveted Energy Star rating.

To focus on the natural theme of the home, the wooded lot was 96 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

kept as pure as possible. “A lot of planning went into this house,” Doug said. “We had a landscape architect involved from the very beginning. He told us what trees we could cut and what we couldn’t. It really helped the setting of the house.”

Although the majority of the homes Doug and his crew build follow the more traditional mountain style, they were able to show there versatility through this contemporary style.

“This house was a little bit of a challenge for us because it is not something we do everyday,” Doug noted. “I am really proud of this home because it gave us an opportunity to do something out of the norm, and at the same time, it really showed the diversity of our company. We can do whatever comes our way, and do it well. We can build houses of every shape and every size.”

Started in Fall of 2008, and recently completed in 2009, the contemporary style of the home will truly be a feature of Douglas L. McGuire Construction Company’s profile. For 22 years, the company has been serving the High Country through personal attention, open communication, extensive construction knowledge, and

a “hands-on” approach to building. For more information on Doug McGuire and his company, please call 828-963-6680 or visit their website at www.mcguireconstruction.com. www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 97

98 • High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

Out House of the

This section is dedicated to showcasing all the reasons why people choose to build beautiful homes in the High Country. “Out Of The House” is your seasonal guide to exploring the wonderful and unique places this area has to offer.

Ski & Stay Your winter guide for slopes and retreats

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Where to ski

The abundance of snowfall since mid-December has everyone feeling like we live in a giant snow globe. For the ski mountains and the ski bums in the High Country it is a welcome feeling. For you, if you are not one of those ski bums, but have a hankering to get on the slopes or participate in some winter fun here’s a guide we compiled of some excellent ski and snowboard options.

Sugar Mountain Sugar Mountain, North Carolina – Sugar Mountain Resort celebrates 40 years this season! The Resort opened in 1969 with four lifts and eleven slopes for skiing. Since then Sugar has grown to include seven lifts and twenty slopes for skiers and snowboarders. Winter activity offerings have expanded over the years to include snowshoeing, tubing and ice-skating.

Slope conditions continue to be a top priority at Sugar Mountain Resort.

Overhauling Sugar's snowmaking infrastructure continued throughout the summer with the replacement and upgrade of 2,500 feet of snowmaking pipes along the Big Birch slope. An additional energy-efficient snowmaking machine has been purchased for the 2010 winter season.

Also new this season is the installation of an elaborate scanning system designed to make the entire winter experience friendlier and easier for Sugar's customers while providing the ability to maintain and monitor more concise and accurate control of lift/slope tickets on the mountain at any given time. Join Sugar Mountain for their 40th season as they strive to make Sugar even sweeter. For additional information please call Sugar Mountain Resort: (828) 898-4521 x262 or visit their website at www. skisugar.com.

Ski Beech Beech Mountain Resort is a total Winter experience. With excellent skiing (day or night), and a charming Alpine Village filled with intriguing shops, tempting restaurants and more. You'll find that Ski Beech offers a winter wonderland of fun and activities for all members of your family or group!

Located high in the mountains of Western North Carolina, in the Town of Beech Mountain, since 1967 Ski Beech redefines southern skiing as the highest ski resort in Eastern North America, at 5506 ft. above sea level.

Beech has the only high-speed quad lift in North Carolina with a panoramic vista. These views make riding up the mountain as much fun as skiing down. They also offer double-sided runs with their backside Oz run and their nine runs on the front side of the mountain.

As well as skiing, Beech Mountain also has two terrain parks for snowboarders and a 7,000 square foot outdoor Ice skating rink with the best atmosphere in the region.

For more information about Beech Mountain please call 1-800-438-2093 or 1-828-387-2011 or visit their website at www.skibeech.com.

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Appalachian Ski Mountain Appalachian Ski Mountain has scheduled an unprecedented April 11, 2010 closing date for skiing and snowboarding in North Carolina. The plan for a season of this length is a result of Appalachian's annual commitment to improvements in its snowmaking capability. Appalachian will continue to make snow through the week after Easter 2010 to offer its guests the best quality experience and snow surface possible.

Appalachian Ski Mountain is a full service ski lodge that offers 11 slopes of varying difficulties for skiers, 3 terrain parks for skiing and snowboarding as well as ice-skating for those who want to stay off the slopes.

For more information call 828-2957828 or visit their website at www. appskimtn.com

Hawksnest Tubing & Zipline Zipping down the mountain now has new meaning at Hawksnest. Recognized for having the largest Snow Tubing Park on the East Coast, Hawksnest has added the longest Zip line Tour as well, featuring ten cables, two of which are known in the zip line industry as super or mega zips.

Gliding through the air with ease is trouble-free. Zippers--ages five and up--enjoy the exhilarations of speeding treetop high over valleys with expansive views and threading through the forest canopy. Hawksnests 20 Lane Snow Tubing Park has four different areas to snow tube; lanes are 400 – 1000 feet long. Hawksnest has 100% snow making and lighting on all lanes to provide the best possible conditions and fun for the whole family.

For more information call Hawksnest at 828.963.6561 or visit their website at www.hawksnest-resort.com.

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Where to stay

While you are up here in the mountains enjoying the snow and slopes you’ll need a basecamp to retire to. Here are several luxury “basecamps” for you to call home while you are vacationing in the High Country. All of these are excellent choices and will only enhance your winter stay.

Prospect Hill

What a difference a half hour’s drive north of Boone, NC makes! For birthdays, anniversaries, elopements and time away, celebrate your special moments in the privacy of our large, luxurious yet affordable guest rooms. Located in an 1889 mansion with 21st century updates (including wireless and TV in all rooms), our guest rooms are decorated for relaxation and comfort with a light--not fussy-- touch.

During you time at the inn, enjoy an in-room fireplace, comfy robes, candles and snacks (all included in your stay). Rock away time on the front porch or stroll in the garden with mountain views. Take a whirlpool bath for two or a soak in an historic claw-footed tub. We provide the bubble bath. Arrange to share an Ultimate Ice Cream Sundae or a homemade heart shaped celebration cake to honor your special day. The next morning, enjoy a hardy breakfast. Today’s menu included fresh fruit, juice and Herbed Baked Egg with bacon/sausage. The menu changes daily. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate are available in the dining room 24/7.

Now is the time to put aside your daily routine to celebrate the milestones of your life and enjoy each other. No minimum stay (except October and holidays). $99$179/night plus tax. Weekday, last minute and early booking discounts often available. Business rates (M-Th).

For more information call 423-727-0139 or 800-339-5084 or visit www.prospecthill.com

Inn At Gideon Ridge Tranquility, charm and comfort are the hallmarks of this mountain top inn overlooking the Blue Ridge. It is these qualities that assure guests a memorable stay, whether for a romantic getaway, a hiking retreat, or peaceful respite.

There’s a special magic to Gideon Ridge Inn that blends the tranquility, charm and comfort into a seamless whole. It begins with the charm of the gardens and the entranceway, the courtesy of the local staff, which greets guests and attend to their needs. But the magic may strike one in unexpected ways: while sipping afternoon tea or a glass of wine as one sees the ever-changing view of the mountains or while relaxing in front of a fireplace after taking a whirlpool bath. It also may come while strolling the grounds and gardens. Or while enjoying the special evening meal in the dining room Gideon Ridge Inn began life in 1939, built as a private summer residence for the Lindau family. Their two-story house was built with stone quarried at nearby Grandfather Mountain. There are ten sunny guestrooms, all with private bath, featuring fine mattresses, triple sheeting of Egyptian cotton and down comforters.

Many rooms have fireplaces and whirlpool baths; several have terraces or decks and most have views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For more info call at (828) 295-3644 or visit their website at www.gideonridge.com 104 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

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The Inn At Ragged Gardens Surrounded by an acre of formal and “Ragged Gardens”, this early 1900’s manor offers an enchanting hideaway in the heart of the historic village of Blowing Rock, North Carolina.

Intimate and traditional, the Inn today, with twelve rooms and suites, is immersed in the spirit of the summer cottages of Blowing Rock. This historic Mountain Inn features The Best Cellar Restaurant, which has earned a reputation for fine food and elegance in its’ 32 years of existence.

The Inn at Ragged Gardens is located in downtown Blowing Rock, NC, just two miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina.

The central location on Sunset Drive, only two blocks off of main street allows for easy walking to all of the shoppes, boutiques, parks, and art galleries within downtown Blowing Rock, NC. For more info call 828-295-9703 or visit their website at www.ragged-gardens.com.

The Inn At Crestwood The Moberg family opened their private summer home to the public in March of 2004 when their youngest son unveiled a grand addition to his late father’s original design.

The result, now known as Crestwood, is a timeless fusion of both modern and traditional style. Proudly featuring The Inn, a Spa, The Table at Crestwood Restaurant and The Dawg Star Bar, their unique mountain retreat is located in the heart of the High Country, in between Boone and Blowing Rock and just off the Parkway.

Today, a younger generation of the Moberg family and their carefully selected staff strive to achieve the same welcoming environment so many have come to expect while visiting the original estate. They invite vacationers and locals alike to experience their rendition of the area’s most illustrious hospitality…inspired by three generations and bound together by a shared love for the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For more information call (828) 963-6646 or visit their website at www.crestwoodnc.com.

PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR LIGHTING FOR THE FINEST HOMES IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

Trust the world’s premier landscape and architectural lighting company to turn treasured outdoor spaces into unforgettable, welcoming places that let you linger as long as you want.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today.

free nighttime demonstration 828.304.5483 (LITE) OutdoorLights.com

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •107

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TheMarketplace

A section featuring the coolest local products, real estate for sale, and a business directory of services and business cards.

Products • 109 / Brokerage • 117 / Services • 123 / Corkboard • 127

ProductsYou NeedFor2010

Breville Espresso Maker

Stylish espresso machine is for the true coffee connoisseur Find it at: The County Gourmet 828.963.5269 www.thecountrygourmet.com

Custom Miters Touch Sideboard Custom sideboard made with Honduras mahogany & spalted poplar Get one made at: Miters Touch 828.963.4445 www.miterstouchinc.com

Summer Classic Sheridan

The Sheridan wheel back chair and bench is interpreted in cast aluminum Find it at: Tatum Galleries 828.963.6466

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •109

Products You Need

Mountain Lions & Bobcats

The ultimate rustic mountain decor, the stuffed animal.

Find it at: Wolf Creek Traders 828.963.6800 www.wolfcreektraders.com

Samsung 55” LED TV

Samsung’s most advanced HDTV technology contained in a razor-thin silhouette Find it at: Sears Hometown Stores 828.264.7327 www.searshometownstores.com

Summer Classic Terrace Rose Timelessly brilliant mesh arm chair Find it at: Tatum Galleries 828.963.6466

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Bungalow Sideboard

Beautiful, unique, and handmade Find it at: Wolf Creek Traders 828.963.6800 www.wolfcreektraders.com

Valor Madrona Fireplace

Timeless, durable, and efficient - the Madrona is sure to enhance and warm your living space.

Find it at:

Miele Neptune Vacuum

Wallace Propane & Welding Supply 828.297.1115 www.wallacepropane.com

Powerful and quiet HEPA vacuum Find it at: A1 Vacuum Solutions 828.264.1515 www.mtnvacs.com

LG French 4-Door Refrigerator

Marries stainless style with substance functionality, and organization Find it at: Sears Hometown Stores 828.264.7327 www.searshometownstores.com

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Products You Need Cuisinart Green Gourmet Set

Groundbreaking new eco-friendly cookware Find it at: Savory Thymes: A Cook Gallery 828.263.8181 www.savorythymes.com

Kenmore Elite Chili Pepper

Large 4.5 cubic feet front loading washer can wash a lot of clothes while saving you money, as it is Energy Star Rated.

Find it at: Sears Hometown Stores 828.264.7327 www.searshometownstores.com

Barnwood Octagon Table

Rustic dining for your mountain retreat Find it at: Wolf Creek Traders 828.963.6800 www.wolfcreektraders.com

Craftsman Professional Two-stage Snowblower

A necessity for the long, cold, harsh, winter Find it at: Sears Hometown Stores 828.264.7327 www.searshometownstores.com

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Napolean Modern Fireplace Collection

Combining style, modernism and elegance with energy efficiency and advanced flame technology Find it at: Wallace Propane & Welding Supply 828.297.1115 www.wallacepropane.com

Krups Dolce Gusto

The premium single-serve coffee maker Find it at: Savory Thymes: A Cook Gallery 828.263.8181 www.savorythymes.com

Solar Comfort Heater Stay warm and save money Find it at: A1 Vacuum Solutions 828.264.1515 www.mtnvacs.com

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The Brokerage

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The

VISTAS

at Banner Elk

LUXURY CONDOMINIUMS

Rich in Design, Rich in Savings!

Starting in the $300’s

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(828) 898-3380 www.VistasAtBannerElk.com 311 Penny Lane, P.O. Box 2074, Banner Elk, NC 28604

The Brokerage

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Services

Orkin

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Services Your Indoor Comfort Should Be Perfect, Especially When the Outdoor Weather Isn’t.

Feel better inside with a Trane.

Rest comfortably knowing that when you install a Trane high performance system, it was built to withstand the daily demands of the outside environment and to provide you the perfect indoor environment -- an environment that is heated, cooled and cleaned with the ultimate efficiency -- no matter what mother nature comes up with.

Call now for a free home comfort consultation.

Mountaineer Heating and Cooling 828-264-6625

www.mountaineerheatcool.com

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Final Thoughts

Keep the Home Fires Burning Through Heartfelt Conversation

I

WRITTEN BY JUDI BECK, MA

t’s the depth of winter. The haze has lifted from our vistas. Trees are bare of leaves. Heat blows from our furnaces and drafts seep from our windows and doors. And—a kind of calm has returned to the mountains. It’s just us again—the locals and the students.

The hustle-bustle of summer and fall has given way to the tranquility of winter and spring.

genre of interaction—where we reveal our inner workings and share what’s real, important, joyful, sad or confusing in our lives. I revel in the subsequent feelings of primal connectivity with the human race and feel cleansed when I’ve actively participated. From a personal satisfaction perspective, conversations such as these rank right up there with mutual intimacy with my partner, a great night’s sleep, a wonderful book and adventure travel.

I look forward to November’s end. While the summer people add vibrancy to our environment and we depend upon their appetites for recreation, entertainment, food and art; in their absence local friends reconvene as just us mountain people again. We settle into our “townie” routines and recall why we choose to call the High Country home. For me, in addition to the usual tasks of tending our studio-gallery and writing—this means: playing regular indoor tennis matches, scheduling girls’ cross-country ski weekends, reading in front of the fire, eating cozy dinners in each others’ homes, playing board games, etc. The best part about the slower pace of winter, however, is the less frenzied face-to-face interaction with friends and colleagues. There is nothing like heartfelt conversation to make a person feel like (s)he’s come home again.

But great conversations create something even more enduring. They generate mutual learning, empathy, problem solving, conflict resolution, innovation and that ever-so-important sense of wellbeing and belonging that leads to a long and authentically lived life. For me, there is little more satisfying than an “a’ha” moment born of a group of openhearted, excited and committed people.

But even in the slower pace of winter, I sense with each passing year, that this soothing human ritual seems to be in increasingly shorter supply.

(The following is excerpted and adapted from “The Ecology of Conversation”

by Judi Beck, Trafford Publishing, Bloomington, IN 2009.)

Authentic conversation—the kind where all participants are comfortable in their own skin and eager to exchange thoughts on what they know, feel or question—is a panacea. I crave this juicy 124 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Why do you suppose some of our most lively, salient, and heartfelt conversations are around a bottle of wine? Why are some of our best friendships generated in this scenario? Why do we require a relaxant to feel comfortable engaging with others on an intimate level? With the pleasure so palatable, why is this depth and freedom of expression so illusive?

We—in the Western world—have a multitude of answers, all of which carry seeds of truth: • our culture of speed and competition— we’re busy.

•families dotted all over the map—we’re distant.

• frequent job switching—we’re driven.

• a corporate climate of greed and stockholder value—we’re guarded.

• a widening divide among political parties—we’re angry.

• email, voicemail, text, Google—we’re efficient and … (dis)connected.

Yikes! Enough! Logical reasons all. But it doesn’t make our deficiency of salient human interaction right. It just makes it dismally so.

When is the last time you sat down with others and said, let’s really talk? Let’s learn things from each other. Let’s put our differences aside and create a new truth, new meaning? Let’s evolve. I get excited just writing about it.

The Courage to Commit The painful truth is—this is not easy to pull off. In fact, it seems to be getting more and more difficult. For this scenario to manifest, many things—that seem to be getting scarcer—are involved. To mention a few, transformational conversations require: • time • commitment • real listening • an open heart • a beginner’s mind • awareness of one’s preconceived notions • a keen eye toward others’ responses • a desire to receive • a desire to contribute • the condition of equality These conditions and skills were identified by physicists David Bohm and Mark Edwards, in the 1980’s and tagged as the conversational art of “dialogue.”

Reinvigorated by business authors, Margaret Wheatley and Peter Senge in the early ‘90’s, savvy communicators have followed the business community’s lead and embraced dialogue as a tool for universal wisdom, insight and peace. Indeed, President Barack Obama frequently references engagement in dialogue with his staff, the military and other world leaders—as a vehicle for achieving the best possible decision

making. Dialogue websites—of all persuasions—are appearing regularly as a way for people to gather together around themes, issues and philosophies.

The Art of Dialogue In layperson’s terms, how does one define dialogue? Dialogue is often compared to “brainstorming.” Both are active vocalizations of information. But dialogue advances the process and evolves the outcomes. Whereas, the purpose of brainstorming is to put everyone’s thoughts and ideas out there, the purpose of dialogue is to create new meaning. I get chills just thinking about it.

You see—brainstorming is easy. It asks nothing of the participant other than the contribution of an insight, opinion, fact—or lie—for that matter. The cream seldom rises to the top in a typical brainstorm session.

Dialogue, however, is not easy. In fact, it’s downright challenging. But, I’ve been told that nothing good comes easily and I do believe this. Dialogue asks the participant to contribute truthfully, freely and without ulterior motive. It asks the contributor to add to available knowledge in order to create new meaning for all involved.

It requires faith, vulnerability, curiosity and wonder. Conditions for dialogue, as identified by David Bohm are: 1.

Participants must “suspend” assumptions, literally to hold them “as if suspended before us.”

2.

Participants must regard each other as colleagues.

3.

There must be a facilitator who “holds the context” of the dialogue.

Suspending assumptions is the cornerstone of dialogue. It means the often-difficult release of one’s grasp on that which one assumes to be true, thus creating room for additional information. The only time most of us find this release easy is in the presence of children. As we witness their discoveries, we’re able to view the world with their innocence—if only momentarily.

This is the nature of dialogue. We afford others the acceptance and love that we so easily extend to our wee ones.

For, from its core, dialogue is indeed, a model for love. For it to succeed, participants must recognize the value of

each person’s perspective. They must demonstrate this belief through generous and heartfelt interactions. To value and be valued, after all, is the core of our humanity. (End of excerpt) And so as our High Country hibernation period progresses, think about connecting more deliberately with friends and family.

Think about the health and well-being you extend to yourself and others by doing so.

Think of the discoveries and wisdom that become available as you open your heart and mind to new meaning. Throw the logs on the fire, call some friends, invite them into your home, spice the cider, pick a subject and initiate a new ritual of dialogue. It’s a practice that warms us throughout the year.

Home, after all, is a place to chill out.

For more information on forming a dialogue group or obtaining copies of “The Ecology of Conversation” contact Judi Beck at kmbeck@skybest.com.

Copyright ©, Judi Beck, Boone, 2009

Resource Index A S Construction......................................19 A1 Vaccuum Solutions......................25, 57 Aldous Construction..................................5 App Prevention Products..........................30 Appalachian Custom Builders................23 Appalachian Furniture............................55 Appalachian Radon Busters................127 Barna Log Home .................................70 Baxter Norris Construction....................98 Blackberry Mattress................................63 Blue Mountain Metalworks....................42 Blue Ridge Harley Davidson.................14 Boone Paint and Interiors........................61 Busters Log Homes.................................33 Cabin Store...........................................67 Carrington Design.....................................6 Carver Guttering....................................125 Classic Stoneworks................................40 Closet Design Center..............................65 Covey Hollar..........................................101 Critcher’s Auto.........................................32 Custom Mica & Wood...........................59 Dachille Construction............................103 Design On Tap.......................................43 Designs In Wood.....................................12 Dilley Construction...............................115 Distinctive Kitchen & Bath...................... 1 Doe Ridge Pottery.................................13 Doug Mcguire Construction......................9 Dougnet ..............................................105 E And K Construction.......Inside Back Cover

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Echota....................................................3 Fine Home Builders................................47 Foggy Mountain Gem Mine...................108 Foscoe Fishing Co................................103 Gaines Kiker Silversmith..........................5 Glidewell’s................................39 Green Horizons Innovators..................29 Gum Ridge Mill..........................................5 H & H Drywall.......................................123 Harry Stroud Roofing..............................59 Hawksnest........................................101 HC Home & Prop Services..................116 Headwaters......................................101 Headwaters Enterprises..........................16 Heather Buchanan Electric ...................29 High Country Cabinets ...........................7 High Country Energy Solutions...............30 High Country Renovators.......................44 High Country Stone..............................54 House Design and Floor Planning.......122 Hunters Tree Service............................16 Jason McGuire Backhoe & Grading...123 Jo Lynn Cleaners ...............................114 Kevin Beck Studios.............................107 Knox Group.........................................116 Linville Galleries...................................106 Logs America...........................................2 Main Street Discount.............................123 Mckee Tree Service.................................71 Morales Hardwood Flooring...................56 Mountain Heritage Systems.................26

Mountain High Realty............................120 Mountaineer Sheet Metal.....................123 Munday Hardwoods..............................121 New River Showcase & Design..............54 Northwestern Heating...........................125 Orkin.............................................29,122 Outdoor Lighting Perspective............107 Parker Tie...............................................63 Precision Cabinets................................46 Quality Tile & Marble Inc.....................62 RCD Construction..................................15 Regency Properties.............................116 Sally Nooney Gallery...........................58 Skybest Security....................................128 Spivey Construction.............................21 Sugar Top Resort Sales.......................102 Superior Spas...................................105 Supherb Gutters.................................122 Sustainable Green Builders...................72 Tatum Galleries...............................55, 64 The Country Gourmet...........................40 The Fabric Shoppe................................126 The Gamekeeper ...............................39 The Vistas............................................118 Thunder Hill Plumbing............................45 Wallace Propane..................................48 Weichert / Weber Hodges Group.........116 Window & Door Spec............................69 Wolf Creek Traders.................................11 Worth Supply..........................................61

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