Midlothian, VA March 2021

M A R C H 2 02 1

HOME + DESIGN S T U N N I N G M O D EL H O M ES RED - H O T RE AL ES TAT E LU X U RY APAR T M EN T L IVI N G

H O M E I SSU E

THE TIME IS NOW...

Clocktower Realty Group Our agents have all the tools, resources, and expertise to ensure a smooth, heartbreak-free transaction!

Don't wait, call today and let us show you the Clocktower difference.

Your history. In the making..

804.505.4274 13827 Village Place Drive Midlothian, VA 23114 www.clocktowerrealtygroup.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Mary Ellin Arch | maryellin.arch@lifestylepubs.com

Happy March, Midlothian!

AS THE BITE OF WINTER IS (HOPEFULLY!) JUST BEHIND US, WE LOOK FORWARD TO BLUSTERY DAYS WITH FLOWER BUDS POPPING UP AND OUR YARDS GETTING READY FOR REBIRTH. Oh, and, don’t forget spring cleaning!

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily Alwood, EmmiClaire Photography hello@emmiclaire.com PUBLISHER A SSISTANT

Meghan Butcher, The Dirty Blonde Stylist thedirtyblondestylist@gmail.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Emily Alwood | hello@emmiclaire.com

Our homes are our havens, especially during this strange time of the pandemic. We look forward to being with family and friends, especially being able to hug again! As we prepare our nests for spring, we long for newness and a fresh start.

With that being said, we welcome you to the 2021 Home Issue! We are excited to bring many wonderful ideas to you, including custom builders and great neighborhoods, a nearby luxury senior living community for loved ones, ideas on how best to find a great interior designer, and much more!

We hope that with March ushering in a new season, each of you will pursue renewal

AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITER

M. Katherine Fisher, fisher.katherine@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Rene Scott, Tour VA Homes, renescottphotographer@gmail.com

in your own lives with health, family, friends, and your neighbors. We are creative here in Midlothian, and we always find ways to connect and grow together. We’ll do our best help you along the way, and we’re delighted to be partnering with all of you!

Luck of the Irish to you!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Aaron Swart, Publisher

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian ON THE COVER Photography

by Rene Scott, Tour VA Homes 4

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Midlothian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Midlothian areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Midlothian Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

JanetBrownDesign.com | 804-358-9548 1124 North Arthur Ashe Blvd

BV

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021 FEATURES 12 Real Estate Is Still Red Hot Buyers, prepare for battle, says top area broker

18 Everything You Could Ever Want in Your Home Four stunning custom models in Banyan Cove are the newest jewels in award-winning Magnolia Green

26 Luxury Apartment Living at Its Best Livingston Flats offers so many options and amenities, you may never need to leave

34 Finding the Interior Designer for You Janet Brown advises how you can

18 12

get expert help creating personal spaces that reflect your style

26

34

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Locally Owned

14

Trend Setter

18

Open House

24 Local Limelight 26 Hot Spot 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

CREATE YOUR OASIS

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7

GOOD TIMES

Flagger Brings Joy - And Gets Some Back Wallace McCowan has brought a lot of joy with his smiles, waves and sometimes even dancing as he directs traffic at a roundabout project at Otterdale and Old Hundred roads. So Katy Milano gathered “thank you” comments from other locals and got Wallace featured on NBC12, which led to over $400 in gifts for Wallace. Hats off to all! See also: https://www.nbc12.com/2020/10/20/

LE NO AS W IN G!

flagger-chesterfield-county-makes-residents-community-feel-special/

Expect More at the Livingston.

Livingston Apartment Flats is designed for you to enjoy a lifestyle of relaxed sophistication.

Situated just off Hwy. 360 in the Chesterfield/Midlothian area just outside of Richmond, VA, our community is walkable to local shopping and dining, and a short drive to everything happening in the great city of Richmond! Our style and design is unmatched from the two-story fitness center and salt water pool to units with Stainless Steel Appliances and Granite countertops.

Come tour today and select your brand new home!

LivingstonApartmentFlats.com

8

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

WE’RE SO

LUCKY TO SERVE OU R PAT IE N T S !

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CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

9

AROUND TOWN

MIDLOTHIAN SUPERVISOR EYES HIGHER OFFICE Leslie the

Haley,

Midlothian

Chesterfield

who

represents

District

County

on

the

Board

of

Supervisors, has announced she will seek the Republican nomination to run for Virginia attorney general.

Haley has served on the Board of Supervisors since 2015 and has also served as board chair. She is an attorney at her private practice of Park Haley LLP and also serves as court-appointed guardian ad litem for abused and neglected children. She previously served as senior assistant ethics counsel at the Virginia State Bar.

RIVER CITY SPORTSPLEX CITED IN NATIONAL PUBLICATION River City Sportsplex continues to impress.

The Chesterfield County park, located along Genito Road and Route 288, earned the top spot in the AllStar Outdoor Sports Venue category during SportsEvents magazine's 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.

SportsEvents magazine is one of the nation’s leading publications for amateur and competition sports site scouting. In addition to placing first in the All-Star Outdoor Sports Venue category, River City Sportsplex placed second in the AllStar Multipurpose Sports Venue or Complex category.

Sherri Middleton, executive editor for the magazine, said the Readers’ Choice Awards are selected by sports industry peers. She said River

804.794.6363

www.shopsassybee.com

11400 W Huguenot Rd # 114-115 Midlothian

BVE @ShopSassyBee

City Sportsplex “overcame obstacles and creatively led the way for others” during “a difficult year in sports.”

River City Sportsplex is home to one of the largest pods of synthetic turf fields in the United States and hosts a variety of tournaments and other activities throughout the year.

According to Chesterfield County, it

10

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

is a major economic driver, providing more than $89 million in direct economic impact to the county since July 2017.

walk on art

LLI TO RELEASE END-OF-SPRING CATALOG The Lifelong Learning Institute in Chesterfield will release the End of Spring Catalog for online courses March 5. The session begins March 8 and ends April 30.

LLI

is

a

organization

member-supported designed

to

meet

the educational, fitness and social enrichment needs of adults age 50 and "better." Class categories include: Art, Music, Drama, Dance, Computers, Science,

Technology, Economics,

Math, Finance,

Fitness, Health, Wellness, History, Humanities, International Studies, Languages, Literature, Poetry, Film, Leisure

Activities,

Life

Services,

Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Special Events.

For information on membership or a preview catalog, email info@ LLIChesterfield.org.

IMPORTER OF HANDMADE ORIENTAL RUGS THOUSANDS OF RUGS IN STOCK OF ALL SIZES

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Midlothian using the Get In Touch

9944 MIDLOTHIAN TNPK., RICHMOND 804.323.5540

We Make House Calls

Locally Owned and Operated For 50 Years

link and let us know what you think.

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

11

LOCALLY OWNED HUGH JONES

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY AARON SWART

Real Estate Is Still Red Hot BUYERS, PREPARE FOR BATTLE, SAYS TOP AREA BROKER

HUGH JONES, CEO AND MANAGING BROKER OF CLOCKTOWER REALTY, OFFERS A 2021 MARKET ANALYSIS AND TIPS FOR HOME BUYERS AND SELLERS. SPRING IS REAL ESTATE SEASON. WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT? It’s still a sellers’ market. Inventory is still low. March has historically marked the start of the market – last year, it started in January. The market will be very active.

LOW INVENTORY IS A CHALLENGE, FOR BUYERS AND AGENTS. Many homeowners are reluctant to list because there’s nowhere to go. It’s a Catch-22. Sellers may need to consider a short-term rental or temporary stay with family while they transition. In this market, offers contingent on the sale of another property are not attractive, because many listings are getting multiple offers with prices being driven up. For buyers, this means a harder time finding a place. You want your offer as clean and contingent-free as possible. If you intend to buy, you must be prepared for some lag time and to be outbid.

HUGH JONES manages Clocktower’s 63 agents, in partnership with

HOW SHOULD SELLERS PREPARE THEIR HOMES? A pre-listing inspection puts you ahead of the game. No two inspectors are the same, of course, but a pre-inspection lets you formulate a battle plan regarding needed improvements. Then: Declutter and depersonalize. Painting and curb appeal improvements always help. Kitchen and bath upgrades still bring the 12

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

Rhonda Carroll, principal broker and broker of record.

ClocktowerRealtyGroup.com, 804-505-4CRG, https://www.clocktowerrealtygroup.com/

most return on investment. If you don’t have stain-

WE’VE HEARD OF BUYERS WRITING LETTERS

less steel appliances and solid-surface countertops

TO SELLERS TO GET AN EDGE?

like granite, consider updating. Just be careful not to

Letters can work. We had an Army Reserve buyer who

“over-upgrade” so yours is the most expensive house in

wrote to a Navy reserve seller. That offer was accepted

your area. As you get closer to listing, staging becomes

over others because of the military connection.

important – staging can really help sell a home.

WHAT’S THE HOTTEST PRICE POINT? BEST PAINT COLOR? Gray. Yellow as the accent is trendy now.

OTHER HOT TRENDS?

Around $300,000. First-time homebuyers are spending in the high $200s if not the low $300s.

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOODS?

Hardscaping is big. Firepits, custom decking.

Midlothian is the hub of new construction –

Upscale fixtures: pendant lighting, farm sinks. Smart

RoundTrey, Hallsley, Magnolia Green, Harper’s Mill.

home features like Nest thermostats. Hardwood

For established neighborhoods: Salisbury, Rosemont,

and tile flooring. Gas stoves are more attractive than

Stonehenge, anything in the Robious Corridor.

electric. One or two HGTV elements can help sell an otherwise ordinary home.

WHY SHOULD BUYERS OR SELLERS COME TO CLOCKTOWER?

FOR BUYERS?

We offer a concierge level of customer service. Our

Make sure your financing is in order. Get pre-quali-

process is more consultative than others, for both buy-

fied and pre-approved. We always recommend using

ers and sellers. We pay attention to touchpoints – ini-

a local mortgage company you can easily reach out

tial consultation, listing, closing. Closing is important

to. Interest rates are at historic lows, so a buyer who

– we’re your one-stop shop, recommending the best

spoke with a lender just a year ago may find their

attorneys, title companies, and loan officers to ensure

purchase power may be substantially higher, as

a smooth, seamless, unmatched closing experience.

they would need to pay less interest. After that, get

We want our clients to feel they were truly cared for.

ready for battle. Mentally prepare yourself for multiple

Having a caring and knowledgeable agent who takes care

offer situations. Finally, be honest about expectations.

of every aspect of the transaction makes all the difference.

HGTV hasn’t done real estate any favors. It sets high

Our business comes almost entirely from referrals and

expectations. Buyers want a turnkey house with many

repeat clients, so happy with the experience they recom-

amenities, and that comes at a price.

mend us to friends or return for their next real estate need.

We offer a concierge level of customer service. Our process is m o r e c o n s u ltat i v e t h a n o t h e r s , f o r b o t h b u y e r s a n d s e l l e r s .”

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

13

TREND SETTER

Lobby

RETIRE IN C OM F ORT & CLASS

Dining room Doris-Ellie Sullivan, president, RUI

EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE, A LUXURIOUS LIFESTYLE, AND MYRIAD ENRICHMENT OPTIONS SET THE WESTMONT AT SHORT PUMP APART

14

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The Westmont at Short Pump

YOU CAN’T HELP BUT BE IMPRESSED BY THE

lifelong learning; LUXE Unlimited Spa & Salon;

ELEGANT AND MAJESTIC BUFF-BRICK, COLO-

RUI FIT; Leash on Life, Pet Friendly Services; Taste of

NIAL-MANSION-STYLE BUILDING ON NORTH

RUI, Culinary Experience; and Care Impact, Private

GAYTON ROAD. It’s The Westmont at Short Pump,

Duty, Therapy Assistance.

Retirement Unlimited, Inc.’s tenth community cur-

“Our vision aims to deliver a lifestyle that our

rently under development and soon to be the pre-

residents have earned and deserve - from our team

mier senior living community in RVA.

greeting you in our staple blue uniform to the fine

With a passion for providing exceptional customer

dining culinary experience to our sophisticated décor

service as well as an enriching and luxurious lifestyle

with a local flare,” said Doris-Ellie Sullivan, president

for the senior population, family-owned and operated

of RUI. “Providing a memorable experience is of the

Retirement Unlimited Inc. (RUI) began serving the

utmost importance and is a companywide initiative

Commonwealth of Virginia in 1984. Virginia entrepre-

we work to provide each and every day.”

neurs and friends, Horace Fralin and Elbert Waldron,

RUI continues to expand to provide opportunities

dreamed of providing the best for aging loved ones.

throughout Virginia. With The Westmont at Short

RUI strives to take the senior living experience to the

Pump, opening in early 2021, RUI can now address

next level by offering diverse enrichment programs,

the needs and desires of the senior population in the

social experiences, and levels of care in a comfort-

Short Pump area and beyond.

able and elegant setting.

Residents will be able to experience a variety of

In its third generation of leadership, RUI contin-

life enrichment options in a beautiful surrounding

ues to be a family-run business, keeping these initial

with a variety of apartment styles including stu-

values and traditions alive. Under the leadership of

dio, one- and two-bedroom units, all with granite

Heywood Fralin, Karen Waldron, and William Fralin,

countertops and stainless-steel appliances. There

RUI communities offer unique programs to engage

are also care levels for independent living, assisted

both residents and the community at large. RUI

living, and Inspiritás, RUI’s vision and adaptation

Signature Programs include RUI University, offering

for memory care.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

15

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

https://www.rui.net/the-westmont-short-pump

Coffee shop

Bedroom

At The Westmont at Short Pump, residents

and

laundry

services

are

enjoy delicious, nutritious, chef-prepared meals in

offered, with washers and dryers available in

a restaurant-like setting with tableside beer and

select apartments. The facility is equipped with

wine service. There’s also a coffee shop and a bis-

a generator to protect against power outages.

tro with a full liquor license.

Other amenities include 24/7 licensed on-site

16

Housekeeping

Scheduled transportation and concierge services round out the amenities.

nurse, walking trail, individual gardening areas,

“We believe that no detail is too small, and that

library, theater, full-service spa with massage

trust is earned every day,” said Matt Winningham,

therapy, and a fitness center with on-site therapy.

Executive Director of the Westmont at Short Pump.

LUXE Unlimited Salon and Spa offers massage

“Here, you’ll be free to relax and enjoy a carefree

therapy, pedicure and manicure service, and hair

lifestyle with maintenance-free living in a beau-

styling. Pet services are offered for residents with

tiful setting knowing that our team takes pride in

animal companions under the Leash on Life pro-

our reputation for delivering high quality care and

gram, and there’s a dog park.

experience to our residents.”

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

EXPERIENCE OUR BEAUTIFUL NEW COMMUNITY

™

OUR SALES GALLERY IS NOW OPEN 14399 N. Gayton Road, Glen Allen, VA 23059 WWW.RUI.NET/THE-WESTMONT ·

@WESTMONTSHORTPUMP

Call 804-495-8880 for more information.

A RETIREMENT UNLIMITED, INC. COMMUNITY · FRALIN & WALDRON FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED IN VIRGINIA FOR MORE THAN 35 YEARS

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photos of community and residents

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CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

17

OPEN HOUSE

EVE RYTHING yo u c o u l d

EVE R WANT i n yo u r h o m e

FOUR STUNNING, EXPANSIVE CUSTOM MODELS IN BANYAN COVE ARE THE NEWEST JEWELS IN AWARD-WINNING MAGNOLIA GREEN ARTICLE THE YEATMAN GROUP PHOTOGRAPHY RENE SCOTT, TOUR VA HOMES

CONTINUED >

18

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

+ DETAIL 1 Info, Info, Info, Info + DETAIL 2 Info, Info, Info, Info + DETAIL 3 Info, Info, Info, Info + DETAIL 4 Info, Info, Info, Info + DETAIL 5 Info, Info, Info, Info

+ HOMESMITH CONSTRUCTION

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

19

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

one of a k ind

+ COVENANT BUILDING & DESIGN

20

THE YEATMAN GROUP PROUDLY OFFERS FOUR

walk-in closets and direct access to the laundry room.

NEW MODEL HOMES IN BANYAN COVE, THE NEW

A luxurious en suite features separate vanities, a soak-

CUSTOM HOME SECTION OF MAGNOLIA GREEN.

ing tub and a walk-in shower. Two additional generous

Award-winning Magnolia Green offers resort-style

bedrooms share a jack-and-jill hall bath.

amenities such as walking paths, sidewalks, a soccer field, a splash park, pools, tennis courts, and a champi-

TIMELESS DESIGN

onship golf course with a clubhouse. Take an armchair

18107 Ruby Hill Court, Moseley

tour of these fabulous new models to see all the ameni-

5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3,496 square feet, Laurel

ties and plush décor!

floor plan Jones Homes Custom Builders

WHEN MODERN AND CRAFTSMAN COMBINE

Interior Design by Ami Williams and The Yeatman Group

18100 Ruby Hill Court, Moseley

Design Team

4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, 3,174 square feet, modified

Built by Jones Homes, this stunning home fea-

Alexander floor plan

tures a custom elevation on a private lot with a full

Homesmith Construction

front porch to welcome you inside. Step through the

Interior Design by Ami Williams and The Yeatman Group

8-foot mahogany front door and notice the stunning

Design Team

hardwood floors and moldings, giving a glimpse of

This one-of-a-kind home, crafted meticulously by

the quality and style throughout. An expansive family

Homesmith Construction, is perched on an expan-

room with a gorgeous gas fireplace features hard-

sive home site. It features a modified Alexander floor

wood floors. The Laurel floor plan flows effortlessly to

plan and offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths across

the gourmet kitchen featuring a Wolf range, hardwood

3,174 square feet of living space. Gorgeous hardwood

floors, granite countertops, a huge island, a tile back-

floors and a 2-story foyer greet you at the door. Enter

splash, a pantry, and a sunny morning room. A conve-

the study through French doors and stunning floor-

niently located mudroom features a floating drop zone

to-ceiling wainscoting. The first-floor guest or in-law

bench with four cubbies and hooks above, and access

suite boasts hardwood floor, wainscoting, a walk-in

to a 2-car garage. Rounding out the first floor is a study

closet and a private bath. The kitchen is equipped with

or guest suite with a full bath. Upstairs, enjoy the luxu-

a Wolf gas range, a farmhouse sink, a hidden pantry

rious master suite featuring a huge walk-in closet and

and a butler’s pantry. The open-concept family room

spa-like ensuite bath with ceramic tile floors, separate

opens onto a screened-in porch with an outdoor gas

vanities, a tub and a walk-in shower. Down the hall,

fireplace. Nearby, there’s a mudroom with an adorable

three other bedrooms all include walk-in closets and

doggy bowl fill station. Head upstairs to find the primary

access to full baths. Don’t miss the gorgeous covered

bedroom custom fit for convenience with his-and-hers

rear porch looking out onto the private back yard!

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

+ HARRING CONSTRUCTION

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

21

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

Interior designer Ami Williams

+ JONES HOME CUSTOM BUILDERS

22

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

A TRUE STATEMENT PIECE 18106 Ruby Hill Court, Moseley 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, 4,146 square feet, Durham floor plan Harring Construction Interior Design by Ami Williams and The Yeatman

custom craf ted

Group Design Team This remarkable home, meticulously crafted by Harring Construction, makes a great first impression

+ COVENANT BUILDING & DESIGN

with its aggregate drive, brick and hardiplank exterior, and charming covered front porch. On the main level you’ll find an open concept design featuring a family room with a gas fireplace and built-ins, a first-floor guest suite, and a dining room with custom wainscotting and an adjacent butler’s pantry with floating shelves, granite counters and wine refrigerator. The kitchen is divine, featuring a large center island, a farmhouse sink, a gas range and a walk-in pantry with a barn door; a morning room boasts a gorgeous, vaulted shiplap ceiling. Upstairs, a quaint landing leads to an overlooking loft and four more bedrooms, including an owners’ suite with a vaulted ceiling, an accent wall with detailing, a custom walk-in closet with granite island, and an en suite with an exposed walk-in shower and garden tub. Three additional bedrooms, 3 baths and a media room complete the upstairs. Outdoor living rules with plenty of gathering and entertaining space in the form of a covered rear porch with an elevated ceiling, and a separate patio with a fire pit.

UNPARALLELED CRAFTSMANSHIP 18101 Ruby Hill Ct, Moseley 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, 4,423 square feet, custom floor plan Covenant Building & Design This custom home is like no other, offering everything you could want and more! Built by Covenant Building & Design, it features 5 bedrooms and 5.5 baths in a Southern farmhouse design. Exceptional details and top-quality features include a covered rear porch, a huge walk-in pantry and a first-floor guest suite. The main level’s open floor plan includes a well-equipped

HOMESMITH MODEL:

chef’s kitchen with quartz counters and a large center

https://tourvahomes.hd.pics/18100-Ruby-Hill-Ter

island, a bright morning room and a spacious family

HARRING CONSTRUCTION MODEL:

room with a gas fireplace and built-ins. A private guest

https://tourvahomes.hd.pics/18106-Ruby-Hill

suite offers an oversized closet and an adjacent bath.

JONES HOMES MODEL:

The luxurious master bedroom suite boasts a sitting

https://tourvahomes.hd.pics/18107-Ruby-Hill-Court

room, a huge walk-in closet with private access to a laundry room, and a spa-like ensuite bath. The second

THE YEATMAN GROUP

floor showcases a spacious loft and 3 more bedrooms,

1 Park West Circle #203, Midlothian 23114

each with attached baths. This property boasts a 2-car

804.NEW.HOME | 469.263.4770

attached garage with access to a mudroom featuring a

www.theyeatmangroup.com

custom built-in drop zone.

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

23

ER

ICE DV A S

F OR H O

ME

OW N

S ER

Protection from the Unpredictable

L

NCE AGEN UR A TO S FF IN

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH | PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY ALWOOD, EMMICLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

LO CA

March: In like a lamb, out like a lion.

Or vice versa. Unpredictable winter-to-spring transitional weather can

ANY OTHER RISKS? This is the season for slips and

cause problems for homeowners. Matt Gentry of Farmers

falls. Keep your walkways clear and

Insurance offers advice to help you reduce your risk.

know your jurisdiction’s requirements for snow and ice removal on

What are the main risks?

your property. You’ll be held responsible if an invited guest or official

Snow, ice, wind, thunderstorms, and lightning can lead to leaks, loose gutters, seep-

visitor (like a postal carrier) is injured

age into foundations, and breakage and damage from hail. Make sure gutters are clear,

on your property; you’re not liable if

secure, and pulling water away from your house. A roof over 10 years old should be

an uninvited person (like a solicitor)

inspected for leaks and then repaired.

is injured on your property.

What about trees?

OTHER GENERAL ADVICE?

It’s important to trim or remove large or unstable trees. If your tree falls into your neigh-

Review your policy with your

bor’s yard, their insurance takes care of damage on their side and your insurance covers

agent. I always include sewer and

damage on your side, unless there was prior rot or tree damage or the tree is knowingly

drain protection in case anything

dead. That puts you and your insurance liable for all damages.

backs up onto your property when utilities work on lines. I also rec-

What about inside the house?

ommend service line coverage to protect against utility service issues

Keep your pipes properly insulated. Some insurances may not cover burst pipes

– say, an electrical line disconnect

at all. Consider replacing older pipes; copper piping erodes from the inside and you

that damages your property, or a

can’t always see damage or leaks. New pex/PVC piping is cheaper and more resis-

mainline water leak that damages

tant to leaking and bursting.

your home.

What risks should you look for in a new home?

MATT GENTRY AGENCY LLC,

The dryer should be properly vented, with a properly grounded plug, and preferably metal hoses. Wiring should meet code, with properly grounded GFCI plugs. Bring in your insurance agent as soon as you put a contract down on a home so he can begin working on your coverage and consult with your inspector and mortgage professionals.

24

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

804.793.8332, mgentry@farmersagent.com

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25

HOT SPOT

luxury apartment living

at its best LIVINGSTON FLATS OFFERS SO MANY LEISURE, FITNESS, WORKSPACE AND ENTERTAINMENT AMENITIES, YOU MAY NEVER NEED TO LEAVE ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY ALWOOD, EMMICLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A RELAXED, SOPHISTI-

measures a spacious 702 square feet; the largest

CATED PLACE TO LIVE, CONVENIENTLY LOCATED

3-bedroom, 2-bath unit is big enough for a family at

WITH MANY AMENITIES RIGHT ON SITE? Perhaps

more than 1,800 square feet. A limited number of stu-

you’re selling a house and need a temporary place to

dio apartments also are available.

stay, but you don’t want to sacrifice the space, privacy

“There’s definitely something for everybody,” Lindsay

and luxury you’re accustomed to. Can an apartment

said. “Our kitchen color schemes, large walk-in closets

community really meet your needs and feel like home?

and our large, modern living spaces are what people

The answer is an unequivocal yes: Livingston Apartment Flats.

really comment on.”

Every apartment boasts upscale touches such as

Situated in western Chesterfield County, at Otterdale

wood-style flooring, private and semi-private balco-

and Hull Street roads near Cosby Village shopping cen-

nies, bedroom ceiling fans, full-sized washer and dryer,

ter, Livingston Apartment Flats is a luxury community of

and USB charging outlets. All kitchens are equipped

thoughtfully designed 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartment

with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops,

homes. A suite of community amenities includes an

designer ceramic tile backsplash, a smooth glass-top

on-site business area, a two-story fitness center, and a

range, and a side-by-side refrigerator. Granite coun-

resort-style saltwater swimming pool.

tertops also are featured in the bathrooms. Every

Leasing began last fall when the community, still under construction, first opened.

“There’s a lot of excitement here,” said Lindsay Koch, senior business manager. “We really try to encompass that lifestyle mentality and a sense of community.”

apartment has elevator access.

But what really sets the Livingston community apart are the suite of common amenities available to all residents.

Is exercise your thing? Livingston’s state-of-the-art fitness center is open 24 hours a day and features top-

Generous proportions and modern styling are

of-the-line equipment, an aerobics studio, and a yoga

standard at Livingston. The smallest 1-bedroom unit

and cross training center with Fitness on Demand.

CONTINUED >

26

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

+ the more you know + LIVINGSTON APARTMENT FLATS 15560 Cosby Village Ave. Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 318-4461 https://www.livingstonapartmentflats.com/

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

27

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

take a tour

28

lo cation, lo cation, lo cation

le asing sp e cials

Virtual and self-guided tours are

At Otterdale and Hull Street

Watch for special leasing offers!

available. The leasing office is

Road, walkable to Cosby Village

Past offers have included 2

open Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-

Shopping

offers

months free across the board, 2

5:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

a Publix, Sand Dollar Beach

months free for 1- and 2-bedroom

Contact Lindsay Koch, Lindsay@

restaurant, a pizza shop and a

units, 1 month free for studios and

livingstonapartmentflats.com,

sub shop, a nail salon, doctors’

3-bedroom units.

804.318.4461.

offices, and more.

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

Center

that

There also is an outdoor yoga lawn, a community bike

the saltwater pool, where you can choose to lounge

share, and a bike repair shop with multiple repair sta-

on the sun shelf or under a cabana.

tions across the property.

Enjoy spending time with your pet? Check out the

“Our fitness center is easily twice the size of any other

fenced pet park with agility course, and the pet spa with

in the area,” she said. “The feedback we get is that you

multiple commercial-grade wash stations and a groom-

can get a real workout here.”

ing table. “It’s a really cool and unique feature,” Lindsay

Working from home and tired of setting up on your

said. “When residents come back from playing at the

kitchen table? Check out the work area with its sepa-

park with their dogs and they’ve gotten muddy, they can

rate wifi, conference room, dedicated coffee maker,

get their pet cleaned up easily.”

and options for private office space. There’s also a Community iMac and resident printer station.

If convenience is important to you, then you’ll love the valet waste and recycling service, the car charging sta-

“The LIV Work Space is a concept that our developer

tions, the 24-hour access-controlled package room, ele-

introduced a few years ago,” Lindsay said. “It allows you

vator access in all four-story buildings, and wifi access

to work from home and still have an office-like environ-

throughout the club and common areas.

ment.” The work area offers co-working spaces and membership levels to suit individual business needs.

“It really encompasses the idea of creating a space to live and work,” she said.

To facilitate community connectedness, there are weekly on-site classes and a calendar of on-site events.

There’s also The LIV Team – individuals who live on site and act as community hosts, planning monthly events and

Like to spend time in active or outdoor play? The

helping residents to feel right at home. The LIV Team gets

clubhouse features a fireside lounge and a game

to know each resident, helps people meet others within

room with a pool table, shuffleboard and a wet bar.

the community, and plans and hosts monthly events.

The clubhouse opens up to an outdoor gathering area

“Their role is to help create that sense of community

where you’ll find a bocce ball court, cornhole, out-

we look to have at all our properties, so residents can

door ping-pong tables, and outdoor fire tables. The

feel comfortable and meet their neighbors in fun set-

clubhouse outdoor area connects with the deck of

tings,” Lindsay said.

“THERE’S DEFINITELY SOMETHING FOR EVERYBODY… IT REALLY ENCOMPASSES THE IDEA OF CREATING A SPACE TO LIVE AND WORK.” ~ LINDSAY KOCH

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

29

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1

Registration required for Zoom pass-

includes Loch Lothian, the Midlothian

word. To participate, go to the Calendar

Mines ruins, replica mining headstock,

BOOKTHINK DISCUSSION GROUP

link to get the login link and password.

and miles of wooded trails. https://

https://chester field.evanced.info/

www.lochlothianrace.com/race.html

LaPrade Library

signup/Calendar

Frankenstein, or Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley: Share your passion for reading with fellow book-lovers at our monthly online

3 DUTCH PAINTING IN THE AGE OF REMBRANDT AND VERMEER

CREATIVITY-INNOVATIONENTREPRENEURSHIP (CIE) LECTURE SERIES

2

The idea of a Golden Age was never

This series of virtual lectures focuses on

applied more aptly than to the re-invention

innovation-driven entrepreneurship. This

VIRTUAL PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

of painting in seventeenth-century north-

is an opportunity to learn how to parlay

ern Netherlands. Art was made by and

an idea into a social organization or a

Virtual Program

large for private individuals. This series

business product. Come learn from expe-

Losing a pet is never easy, and coping with

examines the works of Rembrandt and

rienced entrepreneurs and develop your

the loss of a beloved companion can be

Vermeer, and the deep meaning shared

creative-innovative mindset. Speaker is

difficult. Psychologist Dr. Leslie Greenberg

among their works during this golden age.

Kim Baker, founder of Kim Baker Foods,

will lead this session on Zoom. It is open

Virtual event, repeated March 17, 19, 24 and

a company focusing on nourishing peo-

to all family members, including children.

31. https://reservations.vmfa.museum/

ple, communities and the world. https://

Please RSVP by emailing amanda@fetcha-

state/Policies.aspx

provost.richmond.edu/academic-ini-

discussion group. New attendees are always welcome. Virtual program. https://chesterfield.evanced.info/signup/Calendar

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

link. https://www.connectva.org/event/ virtual-pet-loss-support-group-3/

University of Richmond

tiatives/CIE-Lecture-Serices.html

cure.org. You will be sent the secure Zoom

5

11

2

NEW BELGIUM BREWING BEER DINNER

3 IN 30: RECENT ACQUISITIONS, 1890 TO THE PRESENT

Join us for an evening of delicious New

Nuckols Place

Belgium Brewery infused recipes. This

Versatile and tasty, tapas make a great

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

four-course meal features New Belgium's

appetizer that can be enjoyed any time

Join Barry Shifman, who serves as Sydney

Beers and barbecue sauces. This is

of day. With these delicious selections,

and Frances Lewis family curator for the

a demonstration-style cooking class.

what can be better? This is a demonstra-

decorative arts, 1890 to present, for a

Sit back, relax, and let our chefs do the

tion-style cooking class. Sit back, relax,

review of recently acquired Art Nouveau

cooking. $100 per couple. See the menu

and let our chefs do the cooking. $50

masterpieces, including a jeweled and

and sign up at https://aprons-cooking-

per person. See the menu and sign up

enamel choker by Philippe Wolfers, a

school-richmond-virginia.eventbrite-

here. https://aprons-cooking-school-

silver tureen by Faberge, and a French

studio.com/134125913217

richmond-virginia.eventbritestudio.

Publix Aprons Cooking School at Nuckols Place

ened the collection. Free virtual event.

Registration via Zoom required. https:// us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_zui7fbFKTkWFH2tMpGUiXA

COUPLES COOKING: TAPAS & SANGRIA Publix Aprons Cooking School at

com/134125913217

stoneware wall basin, which strength-

6 LOCH LOTHIAN 5K/10K Midlothian Middle School

30

6

11 CLIMATE CHANGE, INEQUALITY, AND SUSTAINABILITY IN RICHMOND

3

This race runs though some incred-

CHESTER CHOICES

Midlothian. The course begins and ends

In Richmond, climate change has affected

at Midlothian Middle school. Runners

and will continue to impact historically

Chester Library

will run on a unique and varied course

marginalized

Join us as we discuss Today Will Be Different

along roads, sidewalks, paths, bridges,

In this webinar, panelists will examine

by Maria Semple. We will meet via Zoom.

and trails. Scenery along the way

the relationship between 20th century

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

ible scenery right in the heart of

The Branch Museum of Architecture & Design

communities

the

most.

MARCH

urban policy, racial inequality, and climate

we walk you through each recipe. $50

and scholars to present lectures and

change in Richmond, and what we can

per person. Also on March 17. See the

seminars. These events are free to the

do about it. Live webinar. https://branch

menu and sign up here: https://aprons-

public. This session, Nubian Queen: How

museum.org/climate-change-inequality-

cooking-school-richmond-virginia.

an Ancient African Kingdom Became

and-sustainability/

eventbritestudio.com/

a Symbol of Feminine Power and Vice Versa, is presented by Jeremy Pope of

12

17

STORIES OF THE STARS

COLLECTION CONNECTION: AMERICAN LAND, AMERICAN PEOPLE

Staunton River State Park

Join the fantastic storytellers of the Chapel

William and Mary. Webinar link coming

soon. https://classics.richmond.edu/

Virtual Program

major-minor/speaker-series.html

18

Hill Astronomical/Observational Society

Explore how pairing historical and con-

on the Observation Field to share the

temporary artworks by Native American

stories of the stars. Hear about constel-

and

lations, planets, astrophotography, and

new readings and unearths overlooked

the distance from the stars to Earth.

narratives of our nation's history and

New information will be introduced

Please wear a mask and practice phys-

culture. Following a discussion on the

regarding the Ladies of the Revolution

ical distancing. Check in at the Visitor

current gallery exhibition, we will pres-

public campaign to raise funds for Virginia

Center. Only 25 people allowed onto

ent additional examples of collection

soldiers in 1780. Martha Jefferson orga-

the Observation Field at a time. https://

pairings in an attempt to offer a more

nized this effort. Her participation has

www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/

inclusive and complete history. Free.

been misunderstood as ineffectual. New

park-event-info?id=SR210002-03

Registration via Zoom required. https://

documents show that women in approxi-

us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/

mately half a dozen counties actively sup-

WN_xBV2FT6sQbahfO8ZqmY6jQ

ported the war effort with an organized

15 ST. PATRICK’S DAY DELIGHT BITES Publix Aprons Cooking School at Nuckols Place

This is a demonstration-style cooking class. Sit back, relax, and let our chefs

Euro-American

artists

inspires

MARTHA JEFFERSON AND THE VIRGINIA CAMPAIGNS Wilton House Museum

system for raising and delivering funds.

18 NUBIAN QUEEN: SYMBOL OF FEMININE POWER AND VICE VERSA

http://www.wiltonhousemuseum.org/ event/mar tha - jef ferson - and -the virginia-campaigns/

University of Richmond

do the cooking. Enjoy all of our deli-

Each year the Department of Classical

cious menu items and ask questions as

Studies brings in noteworthy speakers

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

31

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

19

23

and how to communicate with your

CLOVER HILL CRITICS

CHAMBER N3-NEW, NETWORKING, NATURALLY

wbc-presents-brew-can-we-talk-

Clover Hill Library

terfieldchamber.com/events/details/ breaking-the-silence-that-surrounds-

Virtual Program

gut-health-and-colorectal-cancer-

offered in our parking lot during the

The Chesterfield County Chamber of

21644?calendarMonth=2021-03-01

warm months (weather permitting),

Commerce is bringing you a dynamic way

and via digital means during the cold

to make connections so you can build your

months. Please contact Rose Loren

community and build your business. This

at lorenr@chesterfield.gov for more

exciting program will create an outlet to go

information or if you wish to join the

deeper with people beyond the business

group. The book for March will be

card exchange. Ignite your next connec-

Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover.

tion. Registration required. https://www.

Virtual program. https://chesterfield.

chesterfieldchamber.com/events/

Nuckols Place

evanced.info/signup/Calendar

details/chamber-n3-new-network-

The French have carrots, onions and

ing-naturally-1-26-21-03-23-2021-

celery. The Asians have GGS - Ginger,

21545?calendarMonth=2021-03-01

Garlic and Scallions. This is a demonstra-

Clover Hill Critics is currently being

20 CELESTIAL SKIES AT SAILOR'S CREEK Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park

The local Crewe Astronomy Club will bring powerful telescopes and an amazing video presentation about our

32

family and doctor. https://www.ches-

30 THE ASIAN TRINITY: GINGER, GARLIC, & SCALLIONS Publix Aprons Cooking School at

tion-style cooking class. Sit back, relax,

25

and let our chefs do the cooking. $50

WBC PRESENTS BREW: CAN WE TALK? GUT HEALTH & COLORECTAL CANCER

richmond-virginia.eventbritestudio.

Virtual Program

per person. See the menu and sign up here: https://aprons-cooking-schoolcom/132444897253 Calendar compiled by M. Katherine Fisher

planet, our galaxy and our universe.

Colorectal cancer is America’s sec-

Learn about the constellations, gaze

ond-leading cancer killer in men and

upon planets in our solar system, see

women, and unfortunately diagnosis

close-up views of the moon's moun-

is rising considerably in the younger

tains, and observe far off nebulae and

community. Many patients are being

Would you like to get in touch with us?

galaxies. Visitors are encouraged to

diagnosed in the advanced stages where

We would love to hear from you! Contact

bring their own telescopes. https://

survival rates are low. The discussion will

us

www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/

address signs and symptoms, current

using the Get In Touch link and let us

park-event-info?id=SC210003-00

screening options, prevention strategies,

know what you think.

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

at

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

Jenn Hart, Coach House Realty (804) 317 - 7997

•

hart-and-sold.com

Jenn@Hart-and-Sold.com

You Don’t Need

J. Raleigh Hood, Loan Officer

When You Have Us M a t h

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R e a d i n g

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W r i t i n g

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T e s t

Mason-McDuffie Mortgage | NMLS ID #1554726 804-767-4946

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jraleighhood.com

jhood@masonmac.com

P r e p

Regular updates keep parents informed of progress Proven curriculum fills skill gaps & advances knowledge The support of our experienced tutors boost confidence and improve grades

|

S c h o o l

S u p p o r t

F R E E A C A D E M I C W I T H

T H E

A S S E S S M E N T M E N T I O N

T H I S

2423 Charter Colony Parkway

|

O F

A D

Midlothian 804-220-6777

RICK FLEMING (804) 356-6222 ushagent.com/rickfleming 901 Moorefield Park Dr Ste 105 Richmond Va. ,232336 CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

33

PARTING THOUGHTS

ARTICLE JANET BROWN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

f inding the interior

designer for you JANET BROWN ADVISES HOW YOU CAN GET EXPERT HELP CREATING PERSONAL SPACES THAT REFLECT YOUR STYLE

1

What’s the best way to start with an interior designer?

2

JANET BROWN INTERIORS IS A FULL-SERVICE INTE-

You should have a list of needs and a budget to convey to a design

RIOR DESIGN FIRM WITH A

professional. The designer will then develop a “scope of work” you can

PRIMARY FOCUS ON RES-

both agree to before the project begins.

IDENTIAL PROJECTS. The

How can an interior designer help me figure out what I want?

Designers are trained to see things with a different “eye.” They’ll “take in” the

client’s home and can help define and refine the client’s needs and likes.

company’s philosophy is that the home should reflect your personality

merging

Janet Brown has been in interior design for over 35 years. Her love of home furnishings began as a child

What if I don’t know what I’m looking for in a designer?

3

Look for a designer who’s compatible with your personal style. It’s important for

the designer to understand how you and your family live. Ask your friends for refer-

in Connecticut, antiquing with her mother. She holds a BFA in interior design. https://www.janetbrown design.com/

ences and look at a designer’s online testimonials.

4

What does a typical interview or consult with an interior designer look like?

An initial consult is usually one hour and allows the designer to get a sense of the clients’ taste.

It’s ideally conducted in the client’s home or the space to be designed or decorated.

How can an interior designer set themselves apart from other designers?

5

All designers have unique strengths. Good designers have a strong color sense and spatial planning that is

both helpful and economical. The investment of an interior designer can save you time, money, and headaches, keeping you from making costly online purchases without that design knowledge and expertise. In these crazy times, what is more important than the comfort and function of a beautiful home?

34

while

comfort, beauty and function.

Midlothian Lifestyle | March 2021

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What about the big things?

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