Trend Watch 2016

trend watch I M AG E M AG A Z I N E ’ S

SPRING 2016

$4.95

BUILD, REMODEL & DECORATE

CREATE YOUR DREAM IN 1 image trend watch •

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2016

contents

spring 2016

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FEATURES

18 Yankee Barn Homes Post-and-beam masters.

86 Spotlight Creative Lighting Designs.

12 Editor’s Note 14 Ask the Experts

by Nancy Fontaine

17 Builders & Contractors

26 Classic Homestead

44 Architects Randall T. Mudge & Associates.

Davis Frame Company.

by Mary Gow

49 Real Estate

64 Chew & Co. Design

63 Interiors

by Katherine P. Cox

73 Spotlight Lebanon Paint & Decorating.

97 Spotlight Catamount Solar.

113 Finance

102 2016

93 Energy

102 Landscape

58 Kitchens & Baths

Simple elegance and quality over quantity.

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90 Windows

118 Security Systems 120 Advertisers Index

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trend watch

editor’s note

2016

What’s Your Dream?

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hat kind of beautiful rooms do you envision for your home? Do you picture an updated kitchen with spacious cabinets and sleek new appliances? Is a stylish bathroom with stone countertops and a steam shower in your future? Or are you focusing on creating a comfortable outdoor living space for dining, relaxing, and entertaining?

Whatever is on your wish list this year, you can be confident that the local professionals in our area can make your dream come true. From home designers and builders to carpenters, painters, interior designers, and landscapers, you can count on their experience and expertise to get the job done.

If you’re thinking about conserving energy in your home— and who isn’t?—call on the heating and air conditioning pros featured in our pages and consider installing a more efficient system. Today’s heat pumps are becoming a popular choice with homeowners in our area, and other residents of New Hampshire and Vermont are choosing to rely on the sun. Solar energy is much more affordable now than it was just a few years ago and is a smart long-term investment. The development of new equipment and technology is making solar a viable alternative for many.

If you’re not able to take on a large project this year, focus on accomplishing some smaller tasks to beautify your home. Clear out, clean up, and declutter, and donate unwanted items to a local charity. Brighten any room with a fresh coat of paint. Swap the throw pillows on your sofa for more summery ones. Add a beautiful light fixture. Plant colorful annuals to boost curb appeal.

Power wash the deck and add some bright new cushions to your patio furniture. Making your home sparkle doesn’t have to be expensive!

We appreciate the participation of the talented professionals in the area who sent us their best ideas, tips, and project photos.

We hope that the valuable information and stunning photography within these pages will inspire you to do something wonderful for your home. Enjoy!

Deborah Thompson Executive Editor dthompson@mountainview publishing.com

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SPRING 2016

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YOUR DREAM IN 1 image trend watch •

2016

2013

COVER Eastern Point Retreat by Flavin Architects courtesy of Loewen Window Center.

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Mountain View Publishing, LLC 135 Lyme Road Hanover, NH 03755 (603) 643-1830 www.uppervalleyimage.com Publishers

Bob Frisch Cheryl Frisch Executive Editor

Deborah Thompson Contributors

Tom Brandes, Katherine P. Cox, Nancy Fontaine, Mary Gow, Mike Morin Associate Editor

Kristy Erickson Copy Editor

Elaine Ambrose Creative Director/Design

Ellen Klempner-Béguin Advertising Design

Hutchens Media, LLC Web Design Locable Advertising

Bob Frisch

KEEP US POSTED: Trend Watch magazine wants to hear from readers. Correspondence may be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, Image/TW, 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755. Or email us at: dthompson@mountain viewpublishing.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by email to rcfrisch1@comcast.net.

Trend Watch is published annually in the spring

by Mountain View Publishing, LLC ©2016. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. Trend Watch magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.

Ask the Experts 2016 If a homeowner can make only one improvement this year, what should it be?

What home improvement project is on your wish list this year? Will you go for a sleek new bathroom, updated kitchen cabinets and countertops, or a relaxing outdoor area? Here’s what our local experts recommend for 2016.

BUILDERS Of course the first thing I’d want to say is replace the staircase to increase resale value.

As far as a homeowner in general, my second recommendation would be utility conservation and lowering electric and heating costs.

Paul Saxby, Colonial Woodworking, Bradford, NH

If the budget allows, a new kitchen has a huge impact on the functionality of a home and dayto-day quality of home life. It will also yield one of the best returns on the investment of those home-improvement dollars in a resale situation.

Energy efficiency and reduced heating costs (adding insulation, new windows, alternative energy systems, etc.) are also a major improvement, though these projects typically yield a longer term return on investment and are best suited to homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for a while. We always tell our customers that they should prioritize their home improvement projects based upon their individual goals for their home. If it is their “forever” home, they should focus on projects that will meet their own needs, in the short and long term.

Deb Brien, Riverlight Builders, Norwich, VT

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Many of our clients are preparing for “aging in place.” This typically involves adding or reconfiguring space on the ground floor to improve accessibility. These projects involve adding a master bedroom and bath to the first floor or a residential elevator. Not only are they preparing for the future, but they are also adding value to their home.

Randall Mudge, AIA, Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects, Lyme, NH

INTERIORS One of the first things I look at in a space is the lighting. Good balance in lighting along with choices specific to the room’s function can make all the difference in how we feel in a space. Lighting enhances color and textures.

It can help us relax. It can let the room’s details come alive.

Cheryl Boghosian, ASID, Gilberte Interiors, Hanover, NH

If a homeowner can make only one improvement this year, it should be updating a kitchen or bath.

These rooms are important areas of a home that are used by all. They are also the main areas that help with resale value if you have intentions of selling. Shepard Interiors and Shepard Construction have been experiencing a steady flow of kitchen and bath remodels and renovations over the last few years.

Eleanor Shepard, Shepard Interior Selections, Quechee, VT

At FloorCraft, we believe the most important home-improvement project is the one that you have been dreaming of for years. If the hardwood floor in your family room is scratched up and driving you crazy, get it refinished! Being comfortable and relaxed in your environment is essential to a happy home.

Sonja Anderson, FloorCraft, Wilmot, NH

PAINTING Keep up the exterior of your home. Annual maintenance will extend the paint life on your house and keep it looking good. Another area that should not be overlooked is the deck. These structures take the weather pretty hard, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the coating and how it’s holding up. Some finishes may need annual or semi-annual re-coats to keep maximum protection.

Interestingly enough, wallpaper has become more popular again and many people are choosing this to liven up an area. Wallpaper can really change the look of a room dramatically, and there are many choices available.

Jeff Wilmot, Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering, South Royalton, VT

WINDOWS Add a bay window. It’s one of HGTV’s top 10 best home-improvement values.

Steve Cary, Loewen Window Center, White River Junction, VT

>>>

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Ask the Experts 2016

ENERGY Homeowners should upgrade all of their interior and exterior lighting and lighting controls throughout the house to LED technology. This will enhance their quality of lighting, reduce or eliminate the need to change light bulbs, and reduce their energy consumption.

Air sealing is the first step to prevent warm and cool air from escaping your home. It’s one of the best ways to increase your heating and cooling system’s efficiency and save money. When done properly, it reduces the risk of moisture-related mold and rot, plus it boosts your comfort level by eliminating drafts.

Steven L. Richard, Richard Electric, Wilder, VT

Kim Sager, ARC Mechanical, Bradford, VT

I always think first about energy efficiency. If anything in the house is more than 10 years old, replace it. There are newer models that are energy efficient and could save them money. Also shop for Energy Star-type products.

LANDSCAPE/OUTDOORS In lieu of or in addition to a traditional dining set, add a chat group. Comfortable seating with comfy cushions in easy-care, weather-resistant fabrics let you curl up with a good book or entertain family and friends.

The one improvement that a homeowner should make is to create outdoor living space. You already own your home, so give yourself the ability to spend time in your outdoors. In colder climates we tend to merely look at our landscape and not spend time in it. Spending time outdoors is a great way to rejuvenate your senses!

Judy Evans Sleeper, All Decked Out, Quechee, VT

Daniel W. Bruzga, db Landscaping LLC, Sunapee, NH

David Perry, Perry’s Oil Service, Bradford, VT

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There is a popular trend in landscaping. People want to enjoy time outside in all seasons. Creating an outdoor room with a patio, fireplace, water feature, calming night lighting, and seating area can help fulfill that desire.

Michael Burns, MB Pro Landscape Design, Enfield, NH

CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

builders • contractors Whether you’re building a new home from the ground up or renovating your existing residence, the large, talented pool of architects, designers, and builders in our area can help turn your dreams into reality.

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BY NANCY FONTAINE

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hat do a barn and a grand home on Long Island have in common? A lot when the house is built with a Yankee Barn Homes post-and-beam design.

There is indeed a much-lauded Yankee Barn Home in East Hampton. The house, known as Laurel Hollow, was featured in the 2014 book Prefabulous World: EnergyEfďŹ cient and Sustainable Homes Around the Globeby Connecticut-based author Sheri Koones. >>>

Y A N K E E

B A R N

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POST-AND-BEAM MASTERS 18 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Laurel Hollow A traditional barn-style home with contemporary flair.

Photo by Chris Foster Photography.

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Grantham Home The quintessential post-andbeam barn. This home was inspired by traditional New England barn architecture.

From the exterior, it’s a simple barn house. The interior is defined by the post-and-beam frame utilizing an open floor plan designed for easy living.

Photos by Northpeak Design Photography.

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Winning Ways The company has gained renown for its designs and its system of creating prefabricated panels. It won a Design Excellence Award from Residential Design & Build magazine in 2010, and last year, the “Grantham Lakehouse” design was New Hampshire Home magazine’s Architectural Design winner. The Grantham Lakehouse is one of what the company calls its Barn House designs, which are their most popular home style. But since the designs are customizable, no two Yankee Barn Homes need be alike.

Started in Massachusetts in 1969, Yankee Barn Homes has been headquartered in Grantham, New Hampshire, for more than 40 years. In that time, they have shifted from providing a limited set of predesigned home shell packages to truly custom houses varying in style from barn homes to classic farmhouses, cottages, mountain lodges, and coastal retreats to homes with modern and contemporary flare.

One of the essentials that hasn’t changed is that Yankee Barn Homes fabricates much of the final product ahead of time in its Grantham factory.

Their True Panel System creates less waste both at the factory and on-site compared to basic structure insulated panels, which require cutting to fit window, door, and skylight openings.

According to CEO and co-owner Paul Marinelli, “After the lot is cleared and the foundation poured, we ship materials to the building site.”

The building is fast too. “The home goes up similar to a barn raising: timber frame, panels, then the roof, providing a weather-tight shell,” Paul says. Nothing is compromised by exposure to the elements, so any excess can be recycled instead of thrown out.

Building on the company’s successful methods has allowed for expanded design capabilities. “We are centered around post-and-beam, but we’re willing to

“After the lot is cleared and the foundation poured, we ship materials to the building site.” The building is fast too. “The home goes up similar to a barn raising: timber frame, panels, then the roof, providing a weather-tight shell.”

Nothing is compromised by exposure to the elements, so any excess can be recycled instead of thrown out. —Paul Marinelli, CEO and co-owner www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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These homes are no drafty barns. Yankee Barn Homes’ True Wall™ and True Roof™

panels are insulated with polyisocyanurate, which provides the highest attainable R-value per inch of thickness.

Cabot This home focuses on open-concept living and provides a spacious feel as soon as you walk in the front door. The welcoming entrance guides you to an open living area featuring the great room, dining room, and eat-in kitchen.

Photos by Northpeak Design Photography.

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Cove Hollow This cottage combines the elegant ease of traditional shingle-style architecture with 21st century build technology. It’s an example of a hybrid timber frame, allowing for as much or as little post and beam as you would like.

Photos by Chris Foster Photography.

look at different styles,” Paul explains.

When he and creative director and co-owner Jeffrey Rosen took over the company in 2011 after a period of transition, they updated designs and “pushed hard to build the most energyefficient homes that we can.”

Satisfied Customers The process of building a Yankee Barn home begins with a client working with the company on the design, from which the Yankee Barn home shell package is created. The home shell package includes the precut, prefinished Douglas fir post-and-beam frame, True Wall™ panels (R26.2 to R37.4) with prehung Andersen or Marvin windows; True Roof™ panels (R43.5 to R66.5); and exterior doors and optional pine or cedar siding and prefinished or primed trim.

(R-value is a measure of thermal resistance used in building and construction.)

Once the package arrives at the building site, local contractors, working with the help of a Yankee Barn supervisor, raise the shell and complete the interior finishes.

These homes are no drafty barns.

Yankee Barn Homes’ True Wall™ and True Roof™ panels are insulated with polyisocyanurate, and care is taken to

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“Paul and I intend to continue promoting energy-efficient construction methods using the most current technology.”

—Jeffrey Rosen, Creative Director and co-owner

choose materials that are respectful of the environment.

The polyisocyanurate, for instance, has a much lower environmental impact than standard polystyrene insulation, and the timbers used in the frames are sourced from members of the Sustainable Forest Initiative, whose mission is sustainable forest management.

Satisfaction tends to be high among Yankee Barn Homes’ customers, which includes Jeffrey Rosen himself. “I came to the company as a retail customer, and when I visited the New Hampshire facilities to view the product, I was so impressed by the facilities that I signed a design contract that day. The intimacy of the experience really left an impression on me. In one visit, I met with sales, was moved through to design, and left with a concept for a house in hand.”

When the opportunity presented itself later, Jeffrey jumped at the opportunity to become co-owner with Paul Marinelli, who says they make a great team. “I’m the operations guy, and Jeffrey is the design guy. He has a wealth of experience in home design, interior design.”

Jeffrey’s plans are simple and ambitious: “Take an iconic brand, build from all that is good, and remake it into a driving force in the residential housing market.

Paul and I intend to continue promoting energyefficient construction methods using the most current technology. We’ll also continue to advance the architecture, encompassing both the traditional barn home and other architectural styles.” He concludes, “The future is bright for Yankee Barn Homes!” TW

Yankee Barn Homes 131 Yankee Barn Road Grantham, NH (603) 863-2400 www.yankeebarnhomes.com

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Boulder Meadows This great room features soaring ceilings and large windows to maximize natural light and capture the stunning scenic views. Photo

by Northpeak Design Photography.

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This home features a completely openconcept first floor with no interior partition walls. The floating stairs enhance the openness of the home.

By Mary Gow Photos by Lars Blackmore/Ameridane Press

Classic Homestead DAVIS FRAME COMPANY Blending handcrafted beauty with state-of-the-art technology

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ring together the timeless art and elegance of timber frame construction, high-quality building materials, and new technology, and what do you get? High-performance homes that are beautiful and very energy efficient. Add outstanding personal service, and the results are an acclaimed Upper Valley company and enthusiastic homeowners around the region, the country, and beyond.

Davis Frame Company, based in Claremont, New Hampshire, has built its business and superb reputation on creating beautiful, healthy, and efficient structures—mostly homes but also pavilions, barns, studios, and other buildings. At Davis Frame, handcraftsmanship is paired with state-of-the-art technology. >>>

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Beautiful modern white and stainless steel cabinetry add a 21st century touch to the home. The one-of-a-kind granite is called Van Gogh. The homeowners flew to Baltimore to find the last slab, as the quarry in Brazil is now permanently closed.

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Design Sense and Attention to Detail

Founded in the 1980s by Jeff Davis and Rick Bascomb, Davis Frame has focused on top-quality timber frame post-and-beam construction from the beginning. With exposed beams, traditional wooden joinery, and the natural organic warmth of wood, timber frame homes have style and charm. Davis and Bascomb’s design sense and attention to detail—even fine points like precisely chamfered edges on beams—contribute to the company’s outstanding reputation.

Along with the timber frame focus, Davis Frame

2016

expanded its expertise by incorporating technological advances in design and production, integrating more efficient building systems into home designs, and embracing new materials. To optimize energy efficiency, they turned to SIPs, or structural insulated panels.

SIPs are like insulation sandwiches—dense insulating foam sealed between interior and exterior layers of sheathing. The panels fit tightly over the exterior of the timber frame, providing an impressively weathertight shell and allowing the timbers and joinery to be exposed inside the home. >>

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Top left: The living room features a wall of windows on two sides to capture the beautiful views and bring in natural light.

Top right: The homeowner’s library features white-washed timbers, giving the space a unique look.

THE VIEW Morning Glory sits on 138 acres of mature forest and open fields with 50-mile views of New Hampshire’s White Mountains across the Connecticut River Valley.

Beauty and efficiency with attention to high-end materials and finishes were dominant themes in this home from the outset. Situated with full southern exposure and a unique “prow roof” overhang, Morning Glory captures the warming winter sun but is shaded from the hot summer sunshine.

The artistically designed wraparound deck and blue stone patio with access on both the south and the east make for gracious outdoor relaxation and entertaining.

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To provide another option for efficient, high-quality structures, Davis Frame offers panelized homes. These homes are custom designed using three-dimensional computer-aided design software (3D CAD). Davis Frame fabricates the structural insulated wall and roof panels, called Energy Smart Panels, in its Claremont facility.

The walls and roof are ready to be installed when they reach the building site, saving construction time and labor costs, and reducing waste and waste-removal costs. The panels are constructed out of 2x material and are a perfect alternative to conventional stick frame construction.

“Exceptional customer service is the number-one priority for us at Davis Frame Company. We do a great job working closely with our customers on a one-to-one basis, and we enjoy learning about our clients’ needs and priorities—it’s fun and satisfying to help make people’s dreams come true,” says Jeff, who besides being a co-founder is president of Davis Frame.

“We are a tight-knit team. Our teamwork and strong communication, supported by state-of-the-art software and the best CNC

“Exceptional customer service is the number-one priority for us at Davis Frame Company.” —Jeff Davis

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(computer numerical control) machinery, mean we’re ready to take on any project, be it a quaint 500-square-foot timber frame studio or a 30,000-square-foot panelized townhome project at a ski resort,” he explains.

Morning Glory

For their stunning Weathersfield home, Morning Glory, Gabriele Popp and Anthony Roisman selected Davis Frame. “We wanted a compact house to allow us to focus on the interior with high-end, finished, modern European design,” says Gabriele.

She and Tony had done extensive research and had a very clear idea of the home they wanted. Deciding factors, Gabriele explains, included “the quality of the wood—we chose Douglas fir—and the quality of the finish work. It is very artistic and elegant.” Communi cation with the company was also important to them, and they were impressed by the thoroughness, attention, and professionalism of their project manager, Molly DeLuca.

Morning Glory’s airy layout makes the home feel much larger 32 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Opposite: The master bedroom features a wall of windows, taking advantage of the countryside views.

The bedroom also features soaring vaulted ceilings showcasing the beautiful exposed wooden beams.

Left: This awardwinning Japanese teahouse was constructed with four 24-inch peeled fir logs, adding character to the design of this timber frame pavilion.

During the summer months, full-size screens can be used to bring the outside in.

than its 3,000 square feet. The main floor is completely open, bringing views of Mount Washington and the surrounding landscape indoors. The floating staircase enhances the light-flooded space. Sleek high-end lighting, steel and glass kitchen fixtures, rare “Van Gogh” Brazilian granite, and a Danish Morsø woodstove work together with the timber frame structure and warm Douglas fir beams to create a sophisticated and comfortable ambience.

At the same time, the home is exceptionally

energy efficient thanks to features like SIPs, triple-glazed windows, overhanging eaves, and passive benefits of its orientation on the site.

A Teahouse

Davis Frame has also distinguished itself for its versatility. For a Vermont client who wanted a pond-side pavilion for entertaining and relaxing, the company designed and created a Japanese-style teahouse. With floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, the timber frame pavilion seamlessly connects to its setting. >> www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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The teahouse plan was not only perfect for this site but is well suited to others. Another client who loved the teahouse plan was looking for something larger for an island home in Grand Cayman. Working with Davis Frame’s design team, they combined three teahouses—one each for the master bedroom, living area, and guest accommodations. Beams and other structural elements were precisely cut in New Hampshire and then shipped to the Caribbean for construction.

“We are large enough for any project but small enough for great customer service,” says Molly DeLuca. “We pride ourselves on giving our customers what they want. We try to build better homes—homes that will last generations and cut down on energy use.” TW

Davis Frame Company & Energy Smart Panels 513 River Road Route 12A South Claremont, NH (800) 636-0993 www.davisframe.com www.energysmartpanels.com

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The project management team at Davis Frame (from left): Steve D’Angelo, Peter Donovan, Molly DeLuca, Jeremiah Haynes, Lance Niboli, and Tom Allin.

builders • contractors

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

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MAKING AN ENTRANCE

step up to beauty COLONIAL WOODWORKING WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER ADDING A CUSTOM STAIRCASE OR STAIR RAIL SYSTEM TO YOUR HOME? “Because it adds beauty and value through the craftsmanship and high quality,” says Paul Saxby, owner of Colonial Woodworking in Bradford, New Hampshire. “These are all custom staircases. We precisely measure every space, custom design every stair, provide detailed drawings, and review all aspects of the project to be sure our customers get exactly what they want,” Paul explains.

Why is that important? “The craft of stair building requires specific knowledge not commonly found in the average woodworker. A staircase should flow as it rises to connect the spaces in a home. This can be achieved only through thoughtful professional design,” Paul says. >>>

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lumber barn

Far left: Elegant sweeping double full open free-standing circular.

Left: Traditional large curved bullnose step with a classic master newel in a post-to-post system.

Below: Spacious open balcony.

Bottom: Grand entry double full open.

“

A STAIR’S RELATIONSHIP TO ITS ENVIRONMENT HAS ALWAYS BEEN FASCINATING TO ME.

”

—Paul Saxby, Colonial Woodworking, Bradford, NH

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builders • contractors DO IT YOURSELF? When asked if a homeowner with some building experience could do the job to save money, Paul says, “They could. Absolutely. We have the ability to provide the design services, ship, and install what components our customers would like for us to install, and then they could finish the balance of the installation themselves. Generally speaking, this is something that a homeowner is not comfortable taking on. We can also provide a knock-down service where we custom assemble the rail system on the staircase in our shop prior to shiment, thus making the number of cuts they have to make minimal. Alternatively, we could make some of the major cuts, leaving some work to be done in the field, but the cost would be less than if we assembled all the components.” TW Impressive country-style full open with circular skirt on five-step winder.

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kitchen.

Colonial Woodworking, Inc. 65 West Main Street Bradford, NH (603) 938-5131 www.colonial-woodworking.com

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lumber barn

builders • contractors

BELLETETES

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

we do it all for you We asked Sue Johnson at Belletetes to tell us about the company’s community outreach program, We Build It Forward.

“When Belletetes purchased R.P. Johnson & Son in 2013, the company learned of the We Build It Forward community event (WBIF) and wanted to continue it. They liked the idea of sponsoring projects such as painting, limited roofing, yard work, handicap ramps, and other service-related projects in the towns surrounding their nine locations,” Sue says.

“Belletetes really liked the thought of helping their neighbors in need. We place advertisements in local papers and contact the Welfare

Top: Belletetes employee Mike Asel leads the project of building a small deck and handicap ramp for two disabled women in Jaffrey, New Hampshire.

Above: Mike Shea, executive vice president, and his team of volunteers reshingle the front side of a home for a disabled veteran.

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lumber barn

builders • contractors

Top: Samantha and Joe Poulin rebuild a retaining wall for a disabled woman.

Above: Volunteers strip and restain two decks for an elderly woman in Sunapee, New Hampshire.

Department in local towns as well as talk to our customers and neighbors so they all learn about the program.

“People can apply for the projects themselves, or if they know someone who is elderly, disabled, or has a low income, they can send in an application for that person.

We go out and look at the project to be sure it’s something we can finish in one day. If it is, and we have the support of our volunteers and sponsors, then the project is accepted. When the work day arrives, we go out with a bunch of volunteers for each project that we have. It’s a really nice thing to do for the communities. People love working on the projects—it makes everyone feel good.” TW Belletetes 21 Sargent Road Sunapee, NH (603) 763-9070 www.belletetes.com

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architects 

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

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DESIGN EXCELLENCE

beauty within budget

RANDALL T. MUDGE & ASSOCIATES RANDALL T. MUDGE & ASSOCIATES IS A TEAM-ORIENTED ARCHITECTURAL FIRM committed to interpreting programs, budgets, and schedules into successful architectural forms and dedicated to ensuring the completion of projects in the best interest of their clients. “We view each project as a significant addition to the built environment and give it the care, thought, and respect required of any creative act,” says Randy Mudge, AIA, of Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects in Lyme, New Hampshire.

RTM&A has been providing complete architectural services for the past 35 years from an office located in a complex of reconstructed 18th century buildings at The Village at 85 Dartmouth College Highway in Lyme. >>>

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The client approached the firm with a beautiful piece of property set well off the road near Randolph, Vermont.

After careful clearing of trees, the house was positioned to take advantage of the views looking west over the town in the valley below and the Vermont hills beyond.

Bottom left: The casual seating area centers around a gas fireplace.

To the left of the fireplace are cabinets for audio/visual equipment.

To the right is a hallway lined with bookshelves and a closet designed for a future elevator.

Photos courtesy of Randall T. Mudge & Associates by Greg Bruce Hubbard of GBH Photography.

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architects

“Using a team approach in combination with a traditional design process, which includes site planning, building programming, schematic design, design development, construction documents, bid/negotiation, and construction phases, we provide superior architectural services to our clients who are viewed as primary members of the design team,” Randy explains.

“We are attentive listeners; our design philosophy views the client as a key participant in the design process. We depend on the client to provide us with feedback—both positive and negative—relating to any proposals we may submit for design solutions. Our primary goal is to produce beautiful buildings within defined budgets that fulfill the needs of specific programs.

“We have distinguished ourselves as designers of buildings with broad public appeal, tangible value, and professional recognition for design excellence. We enjoy designing buildings and believe well-designed buildings are a positive addition to the community.” >> 46 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Far left: The client desired a minimal kitchen design where cabinets are treated as pieces of furniture.

Miscellaneous appliances are hidden in the adjacent pantry area, which also provides additional storage.

Top left: Entryway stairs with cherry handrails and newel caps. Stair treads are red oak.

Left: The master bath features a marble-tiled steam shower and his and her vanities.

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architects

About the Projects For the home shown on pages 44 and 45, the couple wanted a house that could accommodate visits from their four adult children and their families.

The house has a formal living room and an informal living, dining, and kitchen area. The grandchildren can make use of the family room on the lower level and the bunk room in the attic. There are three guest rooms with attached baths on the second level. A space for a future elevator was designed into the plan along with a large mudroom to accommodate skis and other sports equipment.

The project shown on pages 46 and 47 was a major renovation with additions. The renovation was a complete gut of the existing first and second floors, creating open living spaces on the first floor and renovating bedrooms on the second floor. Additions included a great room with family room below, a sun room (which became the client’s informal living room), and entryway. Another addition contains the master bedroom and bathroom on the first floor, relocating it from the second floor. The client requested openconcept living with updated décor. They enjoy entertaining and wanted large spaces to be able to accommodate large gatherings.

“Every project is challenging in its own way whether it be budget, existing site conditions, zoning constraints, or other issues,” says Randy. “Both of these projects met the clients’ expectations and expected cost of construction.” TW

Randall T. Mudge & Associates 85 Dartmouth College Highway Lyme, NH (603) 795-4831 rtma@rtmudge-architects.com

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

real estate From first-time home buyers to families searching for a second home and those considering selling, the process will be much easier when you work with one of the experienced real estate professionals who know the market in our area.

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real estate

by mike morin

Making Client

s V IPs

Coldwell Banker

Ned Redpath, Owner, Coldwell Banker Redpath & Co.

8 West Wheelock Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-6406 www.cbredpath.com

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How do you help first-time homebuyers navigate what can be viewed as an intimidating process?

It’s all education. We’ve done it many times. The company’s been in business since 1979. Most of my agents have been with me no less than 12 years and many for 20, 26, and 27 years. Fortunately for us, we have really, really good lending people around here— banks and mortgage brokers that are fantastic. A combination of our knowledge and our introducing them to those organizations and having those individuals talk to them is just outstanding and successful.

Offer a few tips to customers selling a home in terms of creating a good impression with buyers.

I think the easiest thing is to

make it as fresh as possible. Take down a lot of curtains, open up the blinds, and so on. If you need fresh paint and new carpets, absolutely [do that]. Repaint the front door, put a seasonal wreath on it, and of course, price it right. Just as an example, recently we sold four houses, all within a day and a half of being listed because they were priced right.

Boom! Just like that. We also recommend having a prelisting home inspection. When you get that inspection back, correct all the deficiencies.

Tell us about your VIP Membership program.

Most people forget that the last contact the seller makes is the first one they call. If I’ve been working with you and we’ve been friends, and I talk to you all the time, and you go to a cocktail

party just after you and your wife have decided you are going to move, and you meet my competitor at the party, you’re going to call him or her, so I’ve got to do a really good job. The VIP [program] is a card that we send to our client base. We’re closing in on 7,000 people now. That card allows them to park in our lot for short periods, use our secretaries and staff, use the phone and the copier, and, if needed, the bathroom. We also give them one free car wash a month from November through April. We have a concierge service that can help people. We have 240-plus vendors on our concierge list, from plumbers to handymen. We have a 14-foot courtesy van that we give to our clients, customers, and nonprofits, and all they have to do is fill it up with gas when they return it. tw

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BY MIKE MORIN

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

Four Seasons

Sotheby’s International Realty

Alan DiStasio, Managing Director, Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty

Your branding says that your agents “play where they live.” How does that work for your customers?

Many of our associates made a conscious decision to move to New Hampshire or Vermont because of the lifestyle the region has to offer. Our whole value proposition is based on selling lifestyle, not bricks and mortar, so our associates can provide our customers with the perspective of what it’s like to actually live in ski country, one of the lakes regions, or one of our unique New England towns.

Does demand for premium properties remain constant as the economy fluctuates?

Even in down markets, premium homes in quality locations always attract attention. Selling prices may very well moderate, but if priced correctly, buyers will take notice.

Client testimonials often credit your agents for making the buying/selling process painless. Talk about the experience your agents bring to your customers.

Extensive sales experience does not ensure a quality buying or selling experience. Our associates understand that they are in a relationship-building business first and a sales business second. The customer service experience they bring to the table centers on taking the time to fully understand their clients’ needs. Only then can our associates help them achieve their goals. A successful career is built upon successful relationships.

17 ½ Lebanon Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-6067 alan.distasio@fourseasonssir.com www.fourseasonssir.com/ region/the-upper-valley.php 52 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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What are the top amenities or features a customer is looking for in a premium or unique property?

It depends on the lifestyle they seek. For a buyer interested in a lake property, it very well may be a sandy beach with great exposure, a boathouse or dock, and room enough for family and friends to stay. A buyer interested in a ski property desires easy access to the mountain and ease of ownership.

Local amenities in any scenario, such as restaurants, are a big plus. TW

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real estate

BY MIKE MORIN

COUNT ON EXPERIENCE

LindeMac Real Estate

Linde McNamara, Principal broker, owner

LindeMac Real Estate 44 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-4900 www.lindemac.com

Norwich, VT 54 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

Explain the importance of good curb appeal when selling.

Curb appeal is a very critical part of selling your home. First impressions, whether inside or outside a home, are very important to buyers.

You want your home to look welcoming and well taken care of. Fresh flowers outside the front door; a tidy, well-manicured lawn; and a clean, sparkling home inside create a lasting, positive impression on a buyer.

Tell us how you determine a seller’s listing price.

LindeMac Real Estate begins this process by visiting the potential listing and gathering pertinent data. We then enter that information into our database, searching for comparable sold properties within the last 12 months. We choose three to four comparable sold properties that are most similar to the subject property. Then it is a process of comparing the positive and negative features of these comparable sold properties with the subject property. This process eventually will bring you to a price range/market value for the subject property.

Along those lines, how do you handle a client who thinks their home is worth considerably more than your research suggests?

After the recession of 2008, one of the most important things in selling a home has been to price the home at current market value. The best way to determine the market value of a home is to either have a real estate salesperson do a market analysis, as explained above, or hire a local appraiser to appraise the home. Overpriced homes in this marketplace are very difficult to sell. Most buyers will be represented by a buyer broker who can show them comparable sold properties that will show the buyer that the house they are looking at is fairly priced or overpriced. If I have a client who thinks their home is worth considerably more than my research suggests, I will encourage them to have a professional appraisal done and then reconsider my proposal.

You draw upon many years of experience pricing properties appropriately.

I put a lot of time and effort into my proposals for both my buyers and sellers, and I feel through my 25 years as a top producer in the Upper Valley that I bring valued knowledge and experience to all my clients. TW

Lebanon, NH 2016

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real estate

BY MIKE MORIN

PREMIUM PROPERTIES IN THE UPPER VALLEY

Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group How critical is marketing when you help customers sell their properties?

Marketing is an essential component of our sales strategy. As the leading boutique firm in both Hanover, New Hampshire, and Woodstock, Vermont, we have proven that the Internet has leveled the playing field in obtaining outstanding global-marketing reach.

Our success (doubling sales to $30 million) proves that companies with savvy digital-marketing strategies can compete with or outperform real estate franchises or other firms owned by large corporate conglomerates. One hundred percent of our marketing innovation is focused on selling premium properties in the Hanover and Woodstock markets. While our partners and brokers bring a wealth of experience and expertise from prior global-marketing backgrounds, we believe that our success is built upon competence, innovation, and drive.

Sellers get only one chance to make a good first impression with buyers, or those buyers will move on. We take great care to understand the unique attributes of our clients’ properties and to show those in a premium light in our listing materials, including compelling copy and stunning photos and videos. We succeed by making sure that both on and offline, our properties can be discovered by a global or local audience.

John Snyder, Owner, Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group

David Donegan, Owner, Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group

How has opening an office in Hanover helped you serve the New Hampshire market?

Opening our Hanover office has been very effective.

While David Donegan and Zoe Hathorn Washburn were raised and live in the Hanover and Lyme areas, it is important to have a home base to serve clients’ needs

5 The Green Woodstock, VT (802) 457-2600 23 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-0599 www.snyderdonegan.com 56 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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and for meetings and real estate closings. And it has given us an ability to stay better connected as a team. In addition, it is very helpful having the office stay better connected to other businesses we collaborate with, including lenders, attorneys, and local businesses.

How is the market for second homes?

Luxury home sales were again strong in 2015, but lower than the blistering pace of luxury home sales in 2014.

Specifically, there were 22 homes that sold/closed over one million in the greater Woodstock and Hanover markets, down from 35 in 2014. Of these 22 transactions, Hanover and Norwich each had eight sales and Pomfret had five sales. On a personal note, Snyder Donegan was involved on nine sides (buyer or seller side) of these transactions, with one over three million dollars, three between two and three million, and five between one and two million.

What kinds of backgrounds do your agents have, as they are selling many higher-end properties?

All our agents have had successful careers in global corporate sales and marketing prior to returning to local roots here in the Hanover and Woodstock region. With 20-plus years of experience at corporations such as JP Morgan, Red Bull, CBS, and Merck in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and London, this experience, travel, and diversity enables Snyder Donegan’s brokers to understand and connect intuitively with buyers with similar backgrounds who have worked and lived all over the world but are choosing to live full or part time in our special part of the world here in the Hanover and Woodstock areas. TW

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

Above: Kitchen walls in Beacon Hill Damask. Bottom right: Walls in Yarmouth Blue.

Photos from Benjamin Moore courtesy of Lebanon Paint & Decorating.

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FRESH COLORS & CLEAN DESIGN

find your style EASY UPDATES

If you’re considering refreshing the color scheme in your kitchen, think about going with soft, muted colors. White for kitchens is still around in a big way, but tinted whites are the newest options versus pure, bright white.

Cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, and walls are sporting less saturated tones. Think in shades of grey, pale green, and pale blue, both for walls and for accent colors.

The look for 2016 kitchens is also cleaner and more modern. While traditional design will never go away, the trend is toward a slightly cleaner feel with a more linear look and fewer fussy details. You can achieve this new look by selecting overall white or light shades and lighter wood tones and clearing away clutter.

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“

APPROPRIATE LIGHTING IS IMPORTANT TO ALL KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGNS.

”

—Eleanor Shepard Shepard Interior Selections Quechee, VT

STYLISH SHOWERS “When it comes to showers especially, people want something timeless,” says Sonja Anderson of FloorCraft in Wilmot, New Hampshire. “For a more rustic look, we have been selling tons of wood-look porcelain planks for shower walls and natural pebbles for the floor. Or for a more modern look, the larger format glass tiles have been popular. And of course, natural stone is a classic look that will always be in style,” Sonja reports.

Details are not overlooked in today’s tiled showers, and many homeowners choose to set off their tile with decorative accents.

“Traditionally, feature strips were just a three- to four-inch-wide strip that was installed at about eye level as a contiguous line on all the shower walls,” Sonja explains. “In recent years, it seems decorative accents in showers have opened the door for more creativity. We have installed feature walls in showers, where three of the walls are a simple tile and one wall has either a glass mosaic or a strip of pebbles. We have also done decorative accents at the back of an inset soap dish for a subtle touch of color or texture.” >>

Choices for shower tile and decorative accents are almost limitless. Shower photos courtesy of FloorCraft.

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TREECE ACRYLIC TUB COURTESY OF SIGNATURE HARDWARE

In case you’re wondering whether the shower floor needs to match the wall tiles, Sonja exclaims, “Absolutely not! You can get as creative as you like, as long as there is a cohesive element—such as the color tone, tile shape, or tile pattern—to tie everything together.”

MORE BATHROOM TRENDS According to the experts at www.steamshowerinc. com, the following hot trends are showing up in bathrooms everywhere this year. One or more of them may be arriving at your home soon!

• Freestanding Bathtubs These tubs are a trademark of contemporarystyle bathrooms, promoting a sense of luxury and sophistication in the bathroom.

• Heated Floors We all know about heated towel racks, but experts predict that heated floors will become the standard in 2016.

• Vanities with Open Shelving The clean, modern lines on these vanities give your bathroom a spacious and refined appearance.

• Trough-Style Sinks While we’ve seen trough-style sinks in modern kitchens for a few years, in 2016 we will see an increase in these sinks for bathrooms. The trough sink promotes a sense of rustic beauty balanced with sophistication.

• Walk-In Steam Showers With the emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation, steam showers are no longer for the rich and famous only. >> 60 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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kitchens & baths TOUCH-FREE FAUCETS

Kohler K-72218-VS Vibrant Stainless Sensate Touchless kitchen faucet with 15-1/2” pull-down spout, DockNetik magnetic docking system, and a 3-function sprayhead featuring Sweep Spray.

Moen 7565E Align Metal Pullout Spray HighArc kitchen faucet with spout swivel and Spot Resist Stainless.

Touchless faucets, also known as automatic, hands-free, and motion-sensing faucets, are equipped with a proximity sensor and mechanism that opens a valve to allow water to flow in response to the presence of hands in close proximity. The faucet closes its valve again after a few seconds or when it no longer detects the presence of hands.

Automatic faucets are common in airports and hotels, where they are used to cut down on water consumption and reduce the transmission of disease-causing microbes. Touchless faucets are now becoming commonplace in homes, where they prove very handy for families with small children. They can also benefit the elderly and those suffering from arthritis or other limited hand dexterity since there are no handles to twist or pull. The faucet’s automatic shutoff mechanism also greatly reduces the risk of sink overflow due to a faucet being left on. TW 62 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

interiors Whether you’re searching for the perfect sofa, a shower tile to fall in love with, or the most flattering way to light a space, designers can guide you to the choices that will turn your house into a home.

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Chest by Formations and custom mirror serve to ground the two-story living space and provide a home for a family treasure.

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BY KATHERINE P. COX

PHOTOS BY JOHN CHEW

chew & co. design SIMPLE ELEGANCE AND QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

FAMILY PLAYED A CENTRAL ROLE in Susan Chew’s landing on South Street in Hanover as the proprietor of her interior design store, Chew & Co. Design. A desire to get out on her own after nine years at an interior design firm in Pennsylvania was also a factor.

Her parents, who live in Hanover, were excited at the possibility of Susan and her husband and young daughter being closer to them, and Susan admits that she too wanted to be closer to family. >>>

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The client’s original leather chairs and Navajo textiles are paired with custom upholstery to add a unique flair to the living space.

Detail: Sofa upholstered in Manuel Canovas and pillows in C&C Milano and Rose Tarlow fabrics.

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The Chews were looking for a lifestyle change, she notes, and when she heard that the Hanover home furnishings store C. Beston & Company was for sale, they jumped at the opportunity. After purchasing the store last July and following a period of subtle transition, they renovated the retail space and officially became Chew & Co. Design in October.

VISUAL INSPIRATION AND A COMPLETE APPROACH And it is a family affair. Susan’s husband John takes care of the marketing and photography, while her father, Bill Lewis, is the chief financial officer. Susan says at times her mother and daughter and black lab have also helped mind the store.

While Susan’s ultimate focus is interior design, the retail store is a way to get her name out there, she says. “It’s a billboard. I can show my product and give people the chance to get to know me.” With the renovation, she has rearranged

“My aesthetic is simple elegance. I’m into quality, not quantity. People are noticing that. My goal (with the store) is to create vignettes and moments of inspiration.” —Susan Chew, owner of Chew & Co. Design

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SUSAN’S DESIGN ADVICE “I tend not to be too trend driven,” Susan Chew says, preferring a timeless look that includes using personal treasures and collections as accessories. Nevertheless, “trends are great because they bring new elements to the forefront,” she adds.

Elements that she sees from a designer’s perspective include a continued trend of moving away from upper cabinets in kitchens. Shelves or no shelving at all provides an open, expansive feel, she says.

For counters, “I love natural stone—things that, over time, develop a patina,” such as soapstone and marble. People are afraid of these materials, she adds, because they can etch or chip over time. But that gives it character, says Susan. She says she’s seeing a lot of two-tone kitchens, with base cabinets a color, for example, and upper cabinets a lighter more neutral hue.

In bathrooms, “spaciousness is the goal,” says Susan, with frameless shower doors contributing to openness in the room.

Continuing the flooring into the shower provides continuity, and monochromatic color schemes “please the eye. There’s something very cleansing about an allwhite bathroom,” she adds.

In general, “a certain level of formality is back,” Susan notes. Formal living rooms and formal dining rooms are “a huge design opportunity.” They are rooms that “force the family to sit down and enjoy it.

It breaks the routine of living; a place to sit down and unplug.”

Properly lighting the various living areas is important, she adds. “Give yourself the light you need, especially in kitchen work areas, but don’t overdo it with recessed lighting,” rather employ different levels of lighting to create an inviting space.

Detail: Dining chair cushions are upholstered in acanthus leaf scroll tapestry.

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the space to make it more of an obvious design firm where she can work with clients.

The retail side helps draw people in with tasteful gift items and arrangements that visually inspire visitors, she says. “My aesthetic is simple elegance. I’m into quality, not quantity.

People are noticing that. My goal (with the store) is to create vignettes and moments of inspiration.”

With a master’s degree in interior architecture and nine years of experience as an interior designer, Susan says, “I offer a complete approach—all phases of the design project, from conceptual and schematic design, to custom millwork, bath and kitchen design, to selection and specification of fixtures and furnishings, window treatments, and lighting.”

She believes that a total team approach that includes the client, architect, builder, and designer early in a project ensures “the most successful project and the most successful outcome.” The designer, she says, will make sure the space is a reflection of the client’s personal style and interests but also fulfills a functional need. >>

Above: Console backing the sofa creates a visual separation in the open floor plan.

Right: Sofa upholstered in Sanderson fabric is set between builtin bookcases and divides the office from the TV area.

Opposite: The living room opens to the dining area for ease of entertaining.

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Starting with the floor plan, “It’s hugely important to get a sense of flow in the house. I like to get inside people’s heads to make sure form meets function. How are you going to live in this space? Is it casual or formal? Who’s going to be using this space? Kids, dogs, toddlers? What works for you?

What doesn’t?” Susan also takes an inventory of existing furniture to determine what pieces are important and why.

“I love to integrate old pieces with new ones. It adds character.

There’s a story to be told through pieces in a room.”

CommunICaTIon IS Key Communication with clients is critical, she adds. “my primary goal is to listen to what they have to say, and then give my two cents. I will not try to change someone’s aesthetic. my job is to refine things and bring it all together in a cohesive, livable space.”

In a recent project with a couple downsizing from a large house in a rural setting to a smaller home in Hanover, Susan worked with architectural millworkers, the contractor, and the clients to turn a house that lacked detail and character into an elegant home customized to the clients’ lifestyle.

“We did a complete renovation of the kitchen,” Susan says, featuring long counters and no upper cabinets, opening the space to the nearby dining room. The lower level proved challenging because of a structural column in the middle of the room. The clients wanted an office space as well as an area for watching TV. Through customized millwork, they enclosed the column and built two sets of bookcases that divided the space into the two dedicated areas the clients were looking for. They also like to entertain, and with an open floor plan on the first floor, says Susan, they wanted to create distinct spaces, yet “create a connection from the kitchen to the dining room and from the dining room to the living room.” architectural changes to create a single tray ceiling from multiple ones helped to reorient the layout of the space and achieve the desired connections.

What was once a “vanilla house” is now a home with character that suits the homeowners. “They knew it was going to be the house they were going to stay in for a while, so they were willing to invest in customizing it for their lifestyle and quality of life,” she notes.

Hiring an interior designer is money well invested, Susan says. “It costs money, but you save yourself from potential mistakes. Part of the reason you hire a designer is for their vast resources and knowledge.” one mistake people make is to bring the designer in during the last steps of the process, whether it’s a new home or renovation. “Bring the designer in early. It may save you money in the end,” she says. TW

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Left: The kitchen features a fully integrated refrigerator and pantry unit, glass cabinetry, white carrara marble countertops, and a trio of pendants to give focused light to the island work surface.

Detail below: Currey and Company pendants hang over the island.

ABOUT CHEW & CO. DESIGN: Chew & Co. Design is a curated boutique featuring an everchanging selection of home furnishings, antiques, fixtures, art, and accessories, as well as a full-service interior design studio.

Chew & Co. Design 1 South Street Hanover, NH (603) 653-0123 chewcodesign.com

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Spotlight • Lebanon Paint & Decorating

BY KATHERINE P. COX

Russell Square wallpaper from Thibaut is available in refreshing pastels, waiting to dress up a powder room or entryway.

experiment with

NEW WALL COVERINGS IT’S BACK AGAIN—WALLPAPER, THAT IS. But it’s not your grandmother’s wallpaper. Today’s wall coverings bring pop and sizzle to rooms and add a modern touch to what was once a traditional look, says Maria Voege, design specialist at Lebanon Paint & Decorating. While paint still dominates—especially the popular shades of grey—wallpaper is the big story in decorating. “There’s a wallpaper bonanza going on right now—an unbelievable surge,” Maria says. >>> www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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Spotlight • Lebanon Paint & Decorating

“ART ON THE WALL” Her colleague at Lebanon Paint & Decorating agrees. Kirstin Quick, color and design consultant, says the wallpaper craze is driven by “people who are tired of the plain bold colors. They want some surprises in their house. They want some textural interest.”

“It’s art on the wall,” Maria says, and it can offer “glitz and glamour,” adds Kirstin. Both designers pointed to powder rooms as a place where people are especially experimenting with the new wall coverings. “Powder rooms are always a fun place to let loose with wallpaper that’s a little more daring and unexpected,” Kirstin says. You can make it “like a little jewel with sparkly paper,” she adds.

Today’s wallpaper designs are graphic, geometric, and modern. Wallpapers that resemble wall murals and scenes from nature, such as birch trees, are popular, especially in modern houses, says Kirstin.

Wallpaper is a “fun, brought-back option,” Kirstin says, although it does come at a cost.

The average price of a double roll—50 square feet—starts at about $100. Benjamin Moore’s top-of-the-line paint, Aura, is $70 a gallon. Most people are comfortable with a paintbrush, but Kirstin recommends hiring a professional to hang wallpaper. “But if they want to try it, there are plenty of DYI videos to learn from. It’s not hard, just fussy,” she says. There are papers that you can hang and strip off the wall easily, but Kirstin cautions that while they’re easy to take off, they can’t be repositioned.

THE LATEST IN PAINT While wallpaper is making a comeback, paint still dominates design and décor choices, and at Lebanon Paint & Decorating, “our main product line is paint. It’s 75 percent of our sales,” says coowner Tom Evans. He and Shawn Hickey bought the business on Main Street 10 years ago that had housed various paint stores for 30 years, bringing with them their own extensive experience in the paint business.

The industry has changed, Tom says, with technology and environmental regulations—and consumer demand—resulting in paints with zero VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and job74 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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lumber barn

Thibaut’s Bahia, metallic gold starbursts on a cream background, is available in several other colorways, including coral and aqua.

Kingsbury Damask from Thibaut is printed on cork, adding warmth and texture.

“It’s art on the wall,” Maria says, and it can offer “glitz and glamour,” adds Kirstin. specific qualities, such as Benjamin Moore’s matte-finish Aura Bath and Spa, which is highly moisture and mildew resistant.

Neutrals, especially greys, continue to dominate paint trends. “It’s popular because it’s got a contemporary feel,” says Maria.

“It’s a neutral that pairs well with bright colors and plays well with a lot of colors on the spectrum.” Grey Owl, Revere Pewter, and Edgecomb Grey are among the softer shades, says Maria, while Stonington Grey and Covington Grey are more classic. Grey pairs well with white, too, and Benjamin Moore’s 2016 color of the year is Simply White, a warm, bright white.

In paint finishes, semi-gloss and eggshell are giving way to matte. Color instead of white for ceilings is a look that is growing, says Kirstin, adding, “It brings another layer to the room.” It’s a bit tricky because the chosen shade may look different on the ceiling because of the light in the room, she notes, but it can make a room look more intimate, especially the bedroom. If you’re www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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Spotlight • Lebanon Paint & Decorating

GREY OWL

REVERE PEWTER

STONINGTON GREY

EDGECOMB GREY

Top: Wall paint Grey Owl, Benjamin Moore Aura Interior Matte. Designer Vision 2013 Carlos Aparicio. Left: Wall paint Benjamin Moore Stonington Grey, Ceiling Powder Pink. Center: Wall color Benjamin Moore Blue Hydrangea.

SIMPLY WHITE

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BLUE HYDRANGEA

Left: Hunter Douglas Solera Soft Shades combine a soft, sculptured look with a unique cellular construction.

Below: Hunter Douglas Silhouette Shadings feature soft fabric vanes suspended between two sheer layers of fabric, diffusing harsh sunlight.

The tilting vanes allow superior control of light and privacy.

tackling a painting project yourself, consult a paint specialist. “We know the product and what’s right for what application,” Maria says. “We can give advice and make recommendations that would offer the best end result.”

Lebanon Paint & Decorating 51 Main Street West Lebanon, NH (603) 298-8596 lebanonpaint.com

MORE THAN PAINT AND WALLPAPER Paint and wallpaper are not the only areas of expertise at Lebanon Paint & Decorating. Window treatments from basic blinds to high-tech shades can also bring a new element into your home.

PowerView motorized shades by Hunter Douglas are a new option in window shades that can be controlled by a smartphone or remote control. They can be adjusted according to position and even desired shading depending on the time of day or the season.

Still trending are cellular shades that provide great energy savings, keeping rooms warm in winter and cool in summer. “They really do make a difference,” Maria says. They can be upgraded to motorized versions as well. Looking to the future, it appears that we will be using our smartphones for more than sending texts and making calls. From anywhere at any time of day or night, we can also control the light coming into our homes. TW www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

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COLLABORATION & INSPIRATION

creating personal style ALICE WILLIAMS INTERIORS MY MISSION IS TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL LIVING ENVIRONMENTS THAT FIT AND REFLECT EACH OF MY CLIENTS as well as his or her style and home. Every project is a full collaboration that aligns with the client’s tastes, needs, and resources carefully considered and kept firmly in mind.

Designing spaces that truly suit all of my customers and are the best expressions of their styles is my passion. I believe that interiors should be sensitive to the architecture of the house and its surrounding environment, while simultaneously being an expression of its inhabitants.

Alice Williams Interiors provides a wide range of services, from choosing a new rug or reupholstering a favorite chair to completely new construction planning or renovation work. The list of contractors I work with is carefully chosen to ensure that your project is accomplished in an exceptional and efficient way.

I am equally inspired and adept at providing an original design plan and reworking existing items in your home. I sell a carefully considered, broad range of products that will appeal to a wide variety of styles and price points.

Interior design should not be considered an experience for only the affluent but for anyone who wishes to improve their surroundings.

Collaborating with me allows my clients to avoid mistakes and save hours of precious time while ensuring a timely and well-executed project with results they will treasure now and long into the future.

NEWS TO SHARE! I am pleased to have Morgan Metcalf working as my design assistant.

Morgan holds a BA in architectural studies from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. Her education, experience, and talents are fabulous assets to my company. Our clients benefit from her full support of the work that we do. Her sense of space and proportion, as well as her keen eye for color and texture, contribute to the success of our projects.

We are delighted to be working on several significant renovation projects, as well as a new large home construction. It is exciting to support our clients as we help them to choose all the finishes and fixtures for their homes. Developing color palettes, cohesive lighting designs, full furniture plans, and the myriad of other details needed to make a house a home is our passion as well as our specialty. >>> 78 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Right: Widestriped wallpaper decorates the hallway and complements the wainscoating, adding a fresh, linear look to a traditional entry.

Far right: Crisp black and white combine to create a timeless bathroom.

Patterned wallpaper adds a touch of whimsy.

Left and below: This spacious great room was made cozy by creating intimate areas, each with a different purpose. A comfortable conversation area as well as a round table for dining, work, or play were incorporated. Bookshelves with custom lighting were designed to display books and artifacts from the owner’s collection.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALICE WILLIAMS BY GARY SUMMERTON

“

THERE ARE SEVERAL ITEMS THAT DELIVER A LARGE IMPACT FOR THE COST, SUCH AS FRESH PAINT, WALLPAPER, NEW CABINET HARDWARE, AND UPDATED CARPETING.

”

—Alice Williams Alice Williams Interiors Hanover, NH

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interiors ELEANOR SHEPARD INTERIOR SELECTIONS Eleanor Shepard of Shepard Interior Selections as well as Shepard Construction has been experiencing a steady flow of kitchen and bath remodels and renovations over the last few years.

“Some kitchens and baths need only cosmetic changes, such as new floor tile; painting of cabinets; replacement of countertops, sinks, and hardware; and updated paint colors,” Eleanor states. “But many of our projects benefit from entirely new layouts of the space, which usually means tearing out old shower stalls and tubs and redesigning the area with fully tiled walk-in showers and complete replacement of all finish materials.”

Clients are also interested in new products. According to Eleanor, “Many of our clients are interested in using larger format polished and textured contemporary tile, Cambria quartz countertops, painted cabinets with modern door styles, decorative mosaic tile, and streamlined plumbing fixtures that provide flexibility, such as handheld showers with different settings and touchless faucets. Appropriate lighting is important to all kitchen and bath designs.”

“

BENJAMIN MOORE PAINT STATES THEIR COLOR CHOICE FOR THE YEAR AS ‘SIMPLY WHITE.’

”

—Eleanor Shepard, Shepard Interior Selections, Quechee, VT

Left: Decorative mosaic tile is used in unique ways, especially in bathrooms.

Below: Contemporary large-format polished tile creates a classic look with a sleek modern twist.

Photos courtesy of Eleanor Shepard.

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Above: Neutral rules in the kitchen with white marble countertops and neutral-colored backsplash tile, farmhouse sink, and wood cabinets.

Right: Sleek, clean, and modern is the rule for this bathroom.

Far right: An elegant but traditional and cozy nook features a comfy chair, a dark wood chest, and a brass candlestick lamp.

Photos courtesy of Gilberte Interiors.

GILBERTE INTERIORS For 49 years, the team at Gilberte Interiors has spent time with homeowners and their families listening to what makes being at home special to them. Moving through spaces that focus on scale, lighting, color, and texture can make us feel good without even knowing why.

“We oversee the entire process, working with our clients and their construction teams from conception to completion at no additional cost beyond the materials and products,” explains Cheryl Boghosian, ASID. “We understand how products work and what materials and applications are best for specific needs. We study how the client will use the space, the furnishings, and the flow before the first changes are made.”

Aharon Boghosian rejoined the family business in 1989. His forte is the bath, kitchen, tile, stone, and window treatment areas of the business. Aharon has a keen eye for detail and provides outstanding customer service.

“

I ENJOY HELPING CLIENTS BRING THEIR SPACES TO LIFE. —Cheryl Boghosian, ASID

”

Gilberte Interiors, Hanover, NH

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COLOR OF THE YEAR Eleanor Shepard of Shepard Interior Selections in Quechee, Vermont, reports, “For the first time ever, Pantone chose two colors, Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) and Serenity (Pantone 15-3919).”

Eleanor continues, “Rose quartz is considered to be gentle and calm, conveying compassion, while Serenity is light and airy like the sky for a feeling of relaxation. They are being predicted to be used together rather than one or the other. Most agree that pastels will come to the forefront in 2016.

Blues will remain popular, from milky to grey-blues as well as ocean blues and teal.” TW PHOTO FROM BENJAMIN MOORE COURTESY OF LEBANON PAINT & DECORATING

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fl ooring 

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

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MIX & MATCH

create something new FLOORCRAFT

Consult your local flooring professional for advice on the best ways to transition from one floor type to another.

Photo courtesy of FloorCraft.

FloorCraft is a second-generation family owned and operated business, with a reputation for honest advice and impeccable service. Located in Wilmot, New Hampshire, FloorCraft has been serving the surrounding area for almost 25 years. Carl and Gail Olson opened the business in 1992 in the New London shopping plaza. With a growing customer base, as well as the desire to offer a greater expanse of products, Carl and Gail built the Wilmot showroom in 1995, where the business remains.

Today, FloorCraft is owned by the Olsons’ son Ken and daughter-in-law Tobyn, who have been with the company full-time for 15 years.

The family-oriented approach to doing business remains at the core of the company’s vision; FloorCraft strives to find the right products for your family’s lifestyle at a price you can afford.

Their 5,000-square-foot showroom is brimming with possibilities for backsplashes, custom showers, carpet, tile, vinyl, hardwood, and laminate flooring as well as custom area rugs. Whether completely refinishing a whole house in hardwood or installing something as simple as a stair runner of carpet, FloorCraft is eager to help you achieve all of your home-improvement goals.

The friendly sales staff is more than happy to walk you through the selection process with thoughtful design suggestions and informed answers to any questions you may have. They encourage you to bring in your fabric swatches, paint colors, or accent pillows to make sure the selection process is customized to your unique style. After you find that perfect item to suit your needs, you will be pleased to know that FloorCraft employs only the most talented and trustworthy www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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flooring installers, all of whom take great pride not only in the finished product but also in making sure each customer’s individual needs are met with careful consideration along the way. To top it off, you can enjoy your new floor, shower, or backsplash knowing that all installations are guaranteed.

FloorCraft is a small business with a big goal of providing the outstanding service and exquisite craftsmanship that their customers have come to know and expect. From free in-home estimates to design advice and assistance in product selection, all the way to providing floor care instructions once the installation is complete, FloorCraft is happy to guide you through every step of the process. Choosing new flooring for your home can truly be a simple and enjoyable experience.

Bamboo and cork flooring are beautiful, and they’re environmentally friendly.

“

LET 2016 BE THE YEAR YOU START TO CROSS YOUR HOME-IMPROVEMENT GOALS OFF THE LIST!

”

—Sonja Anderson, FloorCraft, Wilmot, NH

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Sonja Anderson of FloorCraft answered some questions we had about flooring.

Do you have any tips about how to make the transition between floors of different materials in a room or between a room and a hallway?

The goal is always to keep the transitions as minimally obvious as possible. Nowadays, many flooring manufacturers make transition pieces to match their products, which makes the transition blend smoothly with the flooring.

Any tips about how to care for a tile or hardwood floor?

Every product—whether tile, carpet, hardwood, laminate, or vinyl—has its own specific set of care guidelines. Many flooring manufacturers recommend only using their own cleaning products to maintain the aesthetic and finish. For carpet, the best thing a homeowner can do is vacuum regularly to prevent sand and dirt from wearing down the backing. When you purchase a new floor, make sure to ask for care instructions and recommended products from your local flooring provider.

Are people still buying carpet?

Yes. There will always be a market for carpet, especially in bedrooms and family rooms, where people tend to want a warmer, cozier feel.

Are customers asking for cork and bamboo flooring?

Cork and bamboo are two renewable products that are environmentally friendly and sustainable. Often we have people come in who are conscious of their global impact, and they’re specifically looking for products that are environmentally friendly from the manufacturing process to the installation process. Cork and bamboo—as well as wool carpeting—are great options for that. TW

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Spotlight • Creative Lighting Designs

BY KATHERINE P. COX

Caption to go here: Sum sa que prae sam, isqui natem quam expe porro offictionse erchil eum im es repro tem hictae nobisit odisti dolessi dolorum faciae aut eos aut volores voluptas et verrumquis

Left: A post light can be a statement piece for all your outdoor lighting, such as Hubbardton Forge’s wrought iron post and post top.

Right: Lighting outdoor walkways and landscaping is a great way to improve the look and value of your home while enhancing safety and security. Photos courtesy of Creative Lighting Designs.

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new ways to make your home shine

CREATIVE LIGHTING DESIGNS

THESE DAYS, SHEDDING LIGHT ON A ROOM INVOLVES MUCH MORE THAN SWITCHING ON A LAMP. With so many choices and styles available, lighting can get complicated and expensive unless you have an expert guiding you through the process and introducing you to all the new, fun, dramatic, and even practical choices that will make your home shine.

“A lighting designer can help you by pulling together a cohesive lighting plan,” says Lois Horan, vice president of Creative Lighting Designs in Lebanon. “Gone are the days of illuminating a single area with a single lamp.”

KNOWING WHAT’S NEW Experienced lighting designers like those at Creative Lighting Designs are up to speed on the latest technology and products on the market, says Lois, and can provide a lighting plan that works for your lifestyle and budget. They offer personal consultation—in your home, the showroom, and even through computer technology—that can save time and money and avoid costly mistakes.

“We’re constantly upgrading our education,” says Lois. “We know what’s better, newer, faster, cleaner. We know who consistently delivers quality lighting. We know what works for people and what doesn’t.”

The three lighting designers at Creative Lighting Designs in Lebanon will consult with clients in their home or take them through their showroom, showing them what’s available and advising them about options for a thoughtful lighting strategy.

“We can walk them through and make suggestions,” Lois adds. For a fee, a computer program can plot the house plan and pop it up in 3D so clients can look at the proposed lighting design. You can do a “fly-through,” Lois says, so you can see all the lights in action.

A MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH A thoughtful plan of “layered” lighting provides a multidimensional approach, she explains, adding, “There are lots of places you can tuck lighting.” In the ceiling, newer, smaller can lighting provides general lighting, which Lois says she is excited about. The

TOP 10 LIGHTING TIPS Lois Horan offers her best advice for successful home lighting.

Try to allocate 6 percent of your budget to lighting. Most builders and homeowners tend to allocate only 1 percent.

Consider using pendants in unusual ways.

Make sure the landscape lights are halogen, which will melt the snow in our northern climate.

Don’t skimp on ceiling fans.

It’s a good place to put your money.

Consider the color of your bulbs.

Whenever possible, put every light on a dimmer. You won’t regret it.

Don’t illuminate a room with just one lighting fixture.

If you’re illuminating artwork, use an LED bulb, as it won’t fade the art.

Don’t forget the staircase, which is often overlooked. Consider lighting the stairs.

Consult a professional lighting designer. It won’t cost you anything, but it could save you time and money.

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Spotlight • Creative Lighting Designs

Left: Layers of light make this room come to life with task and ambient fixtures.

Above: The correct cove lighting design will provide a dramatic effect that will enhance any décor.

small recessed lights can also be installed in older homes, which was not possible with the earlier larger lights with metal housing that got hot. Now, you can cut a hole in the ceiling and snake a wire and install the lights without worrying about the insulation because the new lights are cold, she adds.

For a dramatic effect, specific areas can be flooded with light, drawing attention to a feature such as a distinctive fireplace. Cove lighting above crown molding can “wash” the ceiling with light for another radiant layer. For real drama, tiny fixtures in the ceiling called “beauty spots” shoot out tiny beams of light in patterns such as stars onto the ceiling.

“It’s breathtaking when you walk into a room,” says Lois. Bringing it down to another layer, task lights under cabinets make cooking and prep areas in the kitchen brighter. Tape lights—peel and stick LED lights—can be placed under toe kicks in the bathroom for additional night lights or

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under stair treads for safety. Attaching all the lights to dimmers allows control over individual areas.

TAKING ADVANTAGE OF LIGHTING ADVANCES What’s more, says Lois, lighting doesn’t just help us see—it also affects mood. Using different bulbs can affect the mood of the room and its inhabitants. “You can alter the color temperature from warm to cool,” she explains. “A 3,000 to 5,000 Kelvin bulb is a cooler, blue light that’s crisper, brighter, whiter—like daylight.” You might use it in a room with a lot of art, for example, to bring out a beautiful painting. For a fireplace setting, you might use an inviting yellow hue.

Seniors and millennials are the fastestgrowing segment of the population to take advantage of advances in lighting. As people age, their eyesight changes, making them sensitive to glare. Going from light

to dark can be difficult too. Improving visibility is important to quality of life as well as safety.

“Seniors need different lighting than a family with children does,” explains Lois, so a lighting plan that includes proper brightness without glare and features such as illuminated stair treads is important.

Millennials are tech savvy and seek lighting they can control with their phone, she adds.

Millennials are also driving some of the trends that Lois sees for 2016. The industrial look is big with lamps and fixtures made of metal or natural materials such as stone, wood, and concrete. Brass is making a comeback, she adds, although it’s now called soft gold or caramel. Some have a waxed patina that doesn’t look like brass. Sphere and orb lighting are also very on trend.

In bathrooms, “a lot more people are going outside the box,” Lois notes.

Monorail lights.

Creative Lighting Designs 227 Mechanic Street Lebanon, NH (603) 448-2066 www.creativelightingdesigns.com

They don’t always go with the traditional vanity lights, choosing pendant lights instead.

Pendant lights are also popular over nightstands in the bedroom or as overhead lights in kitchens. Also in the kitchen, “We do a lot of monorail lights,” Lois says, which are a newer version of track lighting. “You can bend it into interesting shapes.”

With so many options and products, consulting a lighting designer is a smart move.

“If there are any issues, you have a friendly face to talk to,” says Lois. “We get to know our clients really well and how they live. We build friendships with our clients.” TW

Made In Vermont

227 Mechanic St Lebanon, NH 03766

603-448-2066 M-F 9 to 5 Sat 10 to 4 Creativelightingdesigns.com www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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windows 

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

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HIGH PERFORMANCE WITH A DISTINCTIVE LOOK

find your inspiration

LOEWEN WINDOW CENTER “Our approach and philosophy is to offer friendly and solution-based service,” says Steve Cary at Loewen Window Center in White River Junction, Vermont. “We engage our customers to educate them so they meet their budget, design, and energy performance goals.”

Another important consideration, according to Steve: “We have deep relationships with window and door manufacturers in the US, Canada, and Europe. We are very proud that our manufacturing partners are industry leaders in their respective niche,” Steve explains.

If you’re thinking about new windows or doors, Loewen offers free site inspection and estimates.

“For most remodeling projects in the Upper Valley region, we offer complete installation services,” says

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Above and left: Loewen contemporary profile features large direct-set windows and narrow stile sliding doors to maximize daylight while minimizing sight lines.

Right: A historical steel window look with high thermal performance is achieved using Loewen picture windows with dark bronze cladding and simulated divided lites.

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windows

“

WE NEVER TIRE OF HEARING OUR CUSTOMERS SAY, ‘I LOVE MY WINDOWS FROM THE LOEWEN WINDOW CENTER.’ IT’S THE NUMBER-ONE REASON OUR BUSINESS TURNS 10 YEARS OLD THIS YEAR!

”

—Steve Cary, Loewen Window Center, White River Junction, VT

Steve. “We support our product lines through excellent warranties and factorytrained service techs.”

Steve reports that the demand for triple glazing is still strong. He offers examples of three pricing levels for this option from different manufacturers, from lower cost to higher, as follows: 1. Made in Nova Scotia, Kohltech uPVC. The ‘U’ stands for unplasticized, which signifies a greener, durable, and stable type of PVC first used in European windows.

2. FiberFrame: Innovative US-made, allfiberglass windows that are rugged, stable, and very thermally efficient.

3. Loewen, made on the frigid, windswept prairies of Manitoba: aluminum clad/wood for the best combination of performance and aesthetics, combining furniture-like fit and finish with leading-edge thermal technology.

“Also highly sought after are large doors and windows that bring the outside in,” Steve says. “These include exterior bifolding doors, Lift & Slide doors (which are not at all like your grandfather’s sliding door), and multi-slide doors that allow sliding doors to stack in one direction. We also offer all styles of entry and interior doors, millwork, and hardware from fine manufacturers such as Emtek, Ashley Norton, FSB, and Rocky Mountain.” TW

Loewen Window Center 52 Bridge Street White River Junction, VT (800) 505-1892 www.loewen.com

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

energy • solar Many residents of New Hampshire and Vermont are turning to alternative sources for heating and lighting their homes, while others are installing energyefficient heat pumps. Local professionals are available to guide you to the system that’s right for you and your lifestyle.

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energy

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

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AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE

same sun, more power SOLAFLECT ENERGY “SOLAR USED TO BE EXPENSIVE, BUT NOW IT’S A GOOD FINANCIAL INVESTMENT,” says Bill Bender at Solaflect Energy in White River Junction, Vermont. “Most people go for solar electric. Once you invest in it, your bill goes down, and this adds up over 20 years. Solar is inflation-protected since you’re getting electricity, not money.”

Solaflect has patented ground-mounted trackers that follow the sun all day long. Panels point at and follow the sun, producing 40 percent more electricity than the same equipment mounted in a fixed position can produce, making it the most efficient photovoltaic (PV) tracker. The Solaflect PV Suspension Tracker uses much less steel than alternative designs, which adds to its cost effectiveness.

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“Our trackers are unique to Solaflect because of the cable structure,” explains Bill. “Cables go to the panels in front and back, holding everything taut, which works well in wind. Last but not least, the trackers have good aesthetics.”

A single tracker is about the size of an apple tree. A big advantage? “Trackers don’t have to go on the roof, which may need to be replaced in 15 years,” Bill reports.

If trackers are located on your property, the most costeffective method is net metering. It can be used directly in your house, for example, if you’re doing laundry or running the dishwasher. When you leave to go to work and are not using any electricity, it goes to the grid and your meter runs backward.

Opposite: Community solar arrays are shared by members of the community, from individuals and families to local businesses.

People who don’t have a good spot for a tracker or who have lots of shade may elect to be in community solar arrays like Solaflect’s Community Solar Park in Lunenburg, Vermont.

Energy goes into the grid and you get credit on your bill.

Left: Solar trackers point to and follow the sun.

The cable design makes the setup aesthetically pleasing.

Below: Residential triple tracker at work during winter.

DID YOU KNOW?

In the last two years, wind and solar have surpassed fossil fuels and nuclear energy combined for new systems that generate power.

Solaflect Energy 326 Main Street, Suite 4 Norwich, VT (802) 649-3700 www.solaflect.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOLAFLECT

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energy

PERRY’S OIL SERVICE We asked David Perry, sales manager at Perry’s Oil in Bradford, Vermont, to explain the advantages of using propane for heating and cooking.

“It’s a very clean, efficient fuel that’s priced very competitively, and it means less maintenance on your equipment,” David says. “With oil, for example, you have oil burner parts needing maintenance, such as nozzles that have to be changed every year. This is not the case with propane.”

David continues, “For surface cooking, I think propane has an advantage. When you first turn it on, it’s instantly on, and the same for when you turn it off. For the oven, that really can go either way.

Some people prefer electric. Back several years ago, it was hard to find a gas oven that had convection cooking. Today, they’re readily available. One thing that is becoming more common is what’s referred to as a ‘dual fuel’ range, which has gas on top and electric in the oven. You get the best of both worlds.”

David reminds homeowners that Perry’s has a full line of appliances available to fit any budget. “We have appliances from under $200 all the way up to high end, such as Sub-Zero and Wolfe products,” he states. TW Perry’s Oil Service PO Box 390 Bradford, VT (800) 654-3344 www.perryoil.com

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Spotlight • Catamount Solar

Clockwise from top: Beidler Family Farm in Randolph, Vermont. A 4.6 kW residential system in East Montpelier, Vermont. Craftsbury Outdoor Center lodge and fitness center.

BY NANCY FONTAINE

sun power

CLEAN & RENEWABLE THINKING OF ADDING SOLAR POWER TO YOUR HOME, FARM, OR BUSINESS? The folks at Catamount Solar think it’s a great idea. Why? One reason is that it has never been more affordable to add solar energy to your home or business; photovoltaic solar modules are at historically low prices. Catamount Solar founding member and Operations Manager Dan Kinney says, “When I started in this business 16 years ago, the cost for residential installations was $11 to $14 per Watt. Today it’s usually under $4 per Watt for residential rooftop solar.” >>>

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Spotlight • Catamount Solar

,”

“

THE GREAT THING ABOUT BEING A 100 PERCENT LOCAL COMPANY IS THAT WE LIVE AND PLAY IN THE COMMUNITIES WHERE WE WORK AND 100 PERCENT OF OUR PROFITS STAY IN VERMONT TO SUPPORT THE LOCAL ECONOMY.

”

Clockwise from top left: A 500 kW array in Derby. Typical home roof-mounted modules. Group members who share power generated by the United Thetford Church system.

There are still favorable tax incentives available as well. On the federal level, new renewable energy systems are eligible for a 30 percent tax credit through 2019 and can be spread over two years if your tax liability is too low the first year to use the whole credit.

Credits will decrease after 2019, going down to 26 percent in 2020 and 22 percent in 2021. Each state has additional incentives as well, depending on your specific utility.

“The industry keeps changing and evolving,” says Dan, “and solar is still growing in the Upper Valley.”

The concept of “net metering” is one of the drivers of the growth in the solar energy industry. Net metering essentially means that if you add energy generation to your household or business—usually through installing solar panels, but it could be from

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—Dan Kinney Catamount Solar Randolph, VT

another technology such as a wind turbine—the electric utility will subtract the value of the energy you generate and supply to the grid from the cost of what you take from it, effectively lowering your metered usage.

The popularity of solar has created challenges.

Utilities working under state regulations cap the amount of net metering they allow, and demand has been growing. Both New Hampshire and Vermont are running up against these caps.

In Vermont, where Catamount Solar does most of its business, Green Mountain Power is still allowing net metering up to 15 kW per installation, which is plenty large enough for most homeowners. New state rules to take effect in January 2017 are being developed that will reset the caps in Vermont. New

Hampshire is working on legislation to raise its caps as well.

Catamount Solar is an employee-owned workers’ co-op started in 2011 and headquartered in Randolph, Vermont. The company believes that its deep experience in the Vermont solar industry coupled with the ownership culture inherent in a workers’ cooperative provides its clients with superior value and service. New hires start out as employees and can become owners after a year. Dan says, “When we come to do an installation, you’ll have a company owner doing the work.”

Dan continues, “The great thing about being a 100 percent local company is that we live and play in the communities where we work and 100 percent of our profits stay in Vermont to support the local economy. We also support community initiatives, donating 5 percent of our annual gross profits to local nonprofit organizations working to make a difference in their communities.” TW Catamount Solar 34 Pleasant Street Randolph, VT (802) 728-3600 catamountsolar.com www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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energy 

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

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SMALL AND EFFICIENT

consider a heat pump ARC MECHANICAL Since 1947 ARC Mechanical has provided quality heating, air conditioning, ventilation, plumbing, and controls for homes and businesses in Eastern Vermont and Western New Hampshire. The company provides system replacements and upgrades, and design-build services for new construction and renovations, as well as equipment maintenance and repairs.

“Since 2013, ARC has installed more than 300 heat pump systems!” exclaims Kim Sager at ARC. “As a member of Vermont’s Efficiency Excellence Network, ARC can install cold-climate air-source heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and high-performance circulator pumps that are eligible for state incentives.”

HOW DO HEAT PUMPS WORK? While most heating systems burn fuel, a heat pump moves existing heat from one place to another. In the case of an air-source heat pump, heat is collected from the exterior air, concentrated via an outdoor compressor, and distributed inside through an indoor room unit. Heat pumps require electricity to run but can deliver more energy than they use. In summer, a heat pump’s operation is reversed to air condition your home by moving heat from indoors to out. Heat pumps are zone friendly and also save by heating only the rooms you need to heat.

Air-Source Heat Pumps: Also called mini-splits, coldclimate and ductless heat pumps consume far less energy than electric resistance, propane, or oil heating systems.

Typically, one heat pump per room or a multi-zone setup is necessary for whole-home heating. While effective in cold weather, an air-source heat pump often requires supplemental heat on subzero days. Other advantages are that no combustion means no carbon monoxide, and there’s no fuel storage or risk of running out of fuel. TW ARC Mechanical Contractors 229 Depot Street Bradford, VT (802) 222-9255 www.arcmech.com PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARC MECHANICAL & MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC COOLING & HEATING

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ELECTRICAL & MORE

get wired with the pros RICHARD ELECTRIC

people look to local licensed electricians to perform these installations rather than large out-of-state companies,” Steven says. “We are wiring a lot of heat pumps as they become more efficient and tolerant of our climate. An efficient building envelope is a key to success with this technology. We have partnered with

Vermod (vermodhomes.com) to wire their net-zero modular homes.” TW Richard Electric Inc. P.O. Box 999 Wilder, VT (802) 295-3894 www.richardelectric.com

Richard Electric Inc. was established 56 years ago in White River Junction, Vermont. Since then, the company has provided high-quality residential, commercial, and industrial services to the Upper Valley, throughout the state of Vermont, and Central and Northern New Hampshire.

“Other than our commercial projects, fire alarm systems, and design-build services, we dedicate an equal amount of resources to our residential business,” says Steven L. Richard, president. “The National Electrical Code (NEC) has changed to require more safety and conveniences to residential users. Arc Fault circuit protection has been required for a while. For new construction, the NEC requires branch wiring to have the proper configuration in each switch box to facilitate the operation of many new lighting and power circuit controls on the market,” Steven explains.

“As with many other things, the controls have gotten much smaller. As an example, if you want to put your outside lights on a timer, we can install one by removing your existing switch and replacing it with a compact timer that fits in the same space as your existing switch, provided the proper wiring is available in the switch box.

“There is also a host of wireless switching available. If you want to come home and turn on lights in your house as you sit in the driveway, we can set you up with a key fob that will do that. If you want to control lights or adjust the heat or AC from your smartphone or computer, we can set you up with that also.”

Richard Electric can also help with other options for your home. “Our solar electric installations are increasing as www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

Seating group by Gloster Furniture courtesy of All Decked Out.

let’s go outside!

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CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT— IN THE SUNSHINE

SEATING GROUPS ARE IN “The trend in casual furniture is away from aluminum and into teak, envirowood, and marine- grade polymer,” reports Judy Evans Sleeper of All Decked Out in Quechee, Vermont.

“It is also away from dining and into chat groups where you can comfortably enjoy drinks, appetizers, and casual meals or put your feet up.”

Lynne Wardlaw of Deck Dock Home & Garden in Sunapee, New Hampshire, echoes that observation. “The most exciting development in the last few years is cushioned seating and propane fire tables. The cushion technology is amazing, and having comfy seats around an easy (but warm!) fire makes the patio the best room in the house,” Lynne says.

“

OUR CUSTOMERS SWEAR THAT OUR SABER GRILLS WITH THEIR INFRARED TECHNOLOGY COOK THE BEST BURGERS THEY HAVE

”

EVER HAD.

—Judy Evans Sleeper All Decked Out Quechee, VT www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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landscape MB PRO LANDSCAPE MB Pro Landscape Design, LLC has been offering complete landscape design and installation since 2004. From walkways, patios, walls, water features, landscape lighting, garden designs, outdoor living areas, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, entertainment areas, and more, MB Pro can handle your project.

Owner Michael Burns says, “During the landscape transformation, we always keep in mind clients’ wants and needs. We strive to offer complete customer satisfaction, making the jobs fun and enjoyable during the process.” To help clients envision the project of their dreams, Michael says, “MB Pro offers detail drawings in 2D and 3D. This really helps the client to see their landscape before it is built. Using a large array of plant material and hardscape material allows us to create their vision.

From a small patio or walkway to complete property transformation, we feel confident that our customers will receive complete customer satisfaction and quality.”

MB Pro Landscape Design, LLC 24 Algonquin Road Enfield, NH (603) 252-6963 mbprolandscapedesign.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MB PRO LANDSCAPE DESIGN

“

FOR THE COLDER MONTHS, A COST-EFFECTIVE ELECTRIC HEATED COBBLESTONE, PAVER, OR STONE DRIVEWAY OR WALKWAY IS THE WAY TO GO.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MB PRO LANDSCAPE DESIGN

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”

—Michael Burns MB Pro Landscape Design, LLC Enfield, NH

landscape

Above: Photo courtesy of Chippers.

Right: Half Moon Teak Garden Bench

by Jewels of Java.

BEAUTIFY YOUR LANDSCAPE Landscaping is a great way to beautify the outside of your home, and it’s not diffi cult to do if you follow a few simple tips.

Select local plants when landscaping. Native plants are comfortable in the soil and climate of the region, so they are easier to maintain and usually do well without a lot of time, work, and attention from you.

As you landscape your yard, incorporate curved borders around foundation plantings and fl ower beds. The rounded, fl owing shapes help balance the linear lines of your home and its hardscape elements.

DEVISE A YEAR-ROUND PLAN Consider creating a multi-seasonal fl ower garden for year-round color and interest. Select different plants that bloom from early spring to late spring, those that do well through the 106 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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summer months, and varieties that prefer cooler fall temperatures. Many perennials are easy and return year after year, and it’s fun to add brightly colored annuals among them during the summer months. If your perennials are tall, add a lower border of annuals in front of them. The choices of colors and shapes are endless and can be overwhelming, so start with just a few of your favorites. You can add to the mix next year.

Besides planting the colors you like, don’t forget to include foliage plants with different shapes, textures, and colors. During winter, evergreen trees and shrubs continue the display.

When planning your landscape, consider speaking with a professional. Even experienced gardeners can benefi t from a consultation, which can save you from making costly mistakes.

landscape

“

FOR 30 YEARS, OUR MOTTO ‘WE’RE ALL ABOUT YOUR LIFE OUTSIDE’ HAS MEANT CHIPPERS HAS THE EXPERTISE, EXPERIENCE, AND ENTHUSIASM TO TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING GREEN AND GROWING SO OUR CLIENTS CAN SAFELY ENJOY THEIR YARDS, WOODS,

”

AND GARDENS.

—Jill Arthur, Chippers, Woodstock, VT

CHIPPERS One of the specialties of Chippers in Woodstock, Vermont, is tree planting and care. If you’re considering some new trees on your property, Cal Forcetti, tree preservationist at Chippers, has some valuable advice.

“The trick is getting the right tree in the right space. Many trees are planted with people not recognizing how large they’ll get, and they end up fighting with them. Planting correctly is very important, as is after care.”

Pests that can infest trees are a concern for homeowners, so if you detect a problem, don’t delay in calling in the experts.

“The most publicized—and for good reason—pest threat to trees in this area is the emerald ash borer,” Cal reports. “If you see the purple traps hanging in the trees, those 108 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHIPPERS

Above and left: Tree planting

by Chippers’ crew.

Top right: A tree spade assists with planting.

are traps to detect the emerald ash borer, which is a beetle that will likely kill most of our ash trees in the next decade. The efforts being made are mostly for detection and quarantine to keep them from spreading.

We can treat trees on an individual basis and hopefully keep them alive until the pest disappears. In a forestry situation, it’s a losing battle. There are just too many trees.”

Chippers Lebanon, NH (603) 448-4800 New London, NH (603) 526-4500 Woodstock, VT (802) 457-5100 www.chippersinc.com www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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landscape

THE CARRIAGE SHED Could you use an outdoor shed to store your lawn tractor, power tools, and outdoor furniture? How about a spacious new barn or an extra garage with an upstairs in-law apartment? Whatever your building needs, the folks at The Carriage Shed have just what you’re looking for. In addition to stylish and functional buildings, The Carriage Shed offers swing sets and play areas for the smaller members of the family.

“Over the past several years, we have seen an increase in customers interested in play systems,” says Robert Therrien of The Carriage Shed in White River Junction, Vermont.

“Whether you are looking to awaken your child’s inner pirate or trigger their imagination with their very own castle, we have a vast assortment of play structures to fit any child’s wants.”

Quality construction goes into each play set. “All of our play systems are Amish-made with #1 grade materials,” Robert reports.

“Varying from wooden play sets to vinyl clad with any option that you can dream up, we have it covered. Ranging from speeding down a tube slide to jumping on a buoy ball, 110 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Kids can slide, climb, and command their own pirate ship.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CARRIAGE SHED

“

WE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILDREN TO SPEND SOME TIME PLAYING ON OUR SETS TO SEE WHAT TRULY SPARKS

”

THEIR INTERESTS.

Sign up for our

FREE NEWSLETTER Sign up TODAY at mountainviewpublishing.com/ newsletter

—Robert Therrien The Carriage Shed White River Junction, VT

the sky is the limit while designing the perfect playground for your little ones,” Robert says.

The Carriage Shed can help you design exactly what your family desires. There are a variety of choices that can include all age ranges, from a baby swing to the Junior Cliff Climb, which can accommodate older children.

“Feel free to come by our lot in White River Junction to check out the quality of our play structures that we offer,” Robert invites. TW The Carriage Shed 1195 VA Cutoff Road White River Junction, VT (800) 441-6057 www.carriageshed.com

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112 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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NEW CONSTRUCTION

CREATORS & DREAM MAKERS

NEW PURCHASE

RENOVATION OR ADDITION

finance Before you consider buying a new home or think about refinancing your current mortgage, consult your local bank. Banking professionals are in the know when it comes to interest rates, terms, preapprovals, and more, and they can simplify the process for you.

www.uppervalleyimage.com •

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finance

BY MIKE MORIN

INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY

Mascoma Savings Bank Richard Kozlowski, Vice President, Residential Mortgage Lending Manager, Mascoma Savings Bank

How do you guide first-time buyers to the best loan products to suit their needs and means?

Some of our folks have been here for a long time, so when you’ve got experienced loan officers, they understand the challenges facing first-time home buyers. One of the three constituencies of a mutual bank is its employees, so that’s a focus of ours, and we’re proud to have long-term employees. The other thing is to have products than can meet those needs and help facilitate those kinds of purchases.

Many first-time home buyers will benefit from the various programs we offer through New Hampshire Housing Finance. We also participate in a grant program through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston. The Equity Builder program can provide first-time home buyers with $15,000 to cover down payment and closing costs. There are income restrictions for these programs.

This year Mascoma Savings Bank will be partnering with AHEAD to provide homebuyers with an education program to help them prepare for home ownership. Three workshops are planned for 2016.

243 Sykes Mountain Avenue White River Junction, VT (802) 280-4920 richard.kozlowski@ mascomabank.com www.mascomabank.com 114 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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How do I know if it’s a good time to refinance my mortgage?

Years ago, for example, they used to say, if your mortgage was 8 percent and rates went down to 6 percent, then it made sense to do that.

Honestly, if two years ago you financed your loan at 4 percent, to think that it’s ever going to be 2 percent is probably not likely, and that means you’re never going to re-fi. However, there are still reasons to refinance your loan.

Maybe you’d like to retire in 15 years, and you’d like your mortgage to be zero when that happens. How are you going to do that? One, you might just pay additional principal, but maybe it makes sense to refinance to a shorter term. There are people looking to refinance to take cash out to do something else with—it makes more sense for them to borrow when rates are really low than to sell investments or borrow against their 401k or whatever else they were looking to do.

Why is being a mutually owned bank good for your customers?

Who owns us? Really, it’s the community, and we look at ourselves as having a constituency of three. It’s the communities that we serve, it’s the customers, and it’s our employees. That’s it.

Our focus on what we do has a much longer time horizon than an institution that’s been owned by shareholders. TW

www.mountainviewpublishing.com •

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finance

BY MIKE MORIN

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS

Sugar River Bank

Terri Crate, Vice President, Senior Retail Loan Officer, Sugar River Bank

How has your connection to the community helped the bank succeed for over 100 years?

Local community banking is built upon one-onone relationships between community bankers and their customers. By banking with Sugar River, our customers deposit their money locally, and we reinvest that funding back into the local economy.

In turn, as community bankers we know our customers firsthand and are personally accountable to them. It’s a win-win scenario. As locally based financial professionals, our employees also take great pride in volunteering in our communities.

Your lending team is very accessible, as you include listing their cell-phone numbers on the SRB website. Why is this access important to customers?

In today’s lending environment, borrowers expect and deserve ready access and a quick response from their lender. Today’s borrowers are very busy, and they want timely answers to their questions.

We understand that borrowers rightfully demand a convenient and easy application process that not only includes online technology but also the ability to speak with a “live” professional at any time during the process.

Mortgage rates have remained historically low for quite some time. What do you see for this in the future?

While my crystal ball is no more polished than anyone else’s, I am not anticipating any significant rises in mortgage rates in 2016. All current indications

10 North Main Street Newport, NH (603) 863-3000 www.sugarriverbank.com 116 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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point to a slow, methodical rise in rates over time with the Fed adjusting interest rates by .25 percent possibly once more later this year.

Is it smart to use a home equity loan to do home improvements?

While for some borrowers a home equity loan or home equity line of credit may be the best option to finance home improvements, it’s important to look at all available options. Based upon a borrower’s individual financial needs, goals, and situation, our mortgage originators take special care to discuss all possible alternatives to determine the best financing option.

Discuss the importance of and how to improve one’s credit score.

Generally, when one has a good credit score it opens up more lending programs and options for a borrower. It’s no surprise that lending programs and decisions are based in part on credit score.

The higher the credit score, generally the better the interest rate offered and the lower the associated fees paid for a loan.

There are several ways to improve one’s credit score. It is important to make payments on time consistently every month. If one has a credit card, it’s essential to keep within the credit limit.

A significant percentage of one’s credit score is based on the outstanding balances of revolving credit card debt in comparison to the credit limit.

Generally speaking, these balances are best kept at between 25 to 30 percent of the credit limit. TW

www.mountainviewpublishing.com •

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security systems

BY TOM BRANDES

TASCO SECURITY

Protecting people and property TASCO SECURITY INSTALLS AND MONITORS CAMERAS AND Z-WAVE DEVICES that enable home and business owners to remotely access alarm, lighting, heating systems, and door locks using a smartphone, tablet, computer, or web page. Recent advances in connectivity, integration, and high-resolution color cameras enable Tasco Security customers to easily monitor their homes, vacation homes, and businesses from virtually anywhere they can access the web.

“In the past, computers made decisions about lighting and heat—and didn’t always predict correctly,” says Tim Suprenant, president of Tasco Security. “Now, it’s easy to control stuff in your house with something in your pocket that’s easy to use and provides useful value.”

High-resolution video cameras allow people to see what’s going on in their backyard or vacation home, see who’s coming and going, or check on aging parents.

Video cameras account for half of Tasco Security’s business (up from 20 percent a few years ago). They’re also installing more intrusion alarms for personal protection.

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Before shopping for a video camera, Tim advises asking yourself what your goal is and what you’re trying to accomplish. Customers often tell him they need a video camera without thinking about where and how they want to use it, what they’ll do with the information once they have it, and how long they want to retain it.

The resolution quality of today’s video cameras is tremendous. In fact, the details are sharp and clear enough to be useful to police in finding, identifying, and prosecuting people in these images. Easy-to-use software makes it simple to store data and search by time periods or motion-related events.

ABOUT TASCO SECURITY Since 1968, Tasco Security has provided integrated systems that protect residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers and property throughout the Upper Valley. Tasco Security is a full-service provider specializing in designing, installing, integrating, and supporting monitoring systems for security, life safety, video surveillance, and other electronic systems.

The company has 14 employees and a UL-listed monitoring facility. TW Tasco Security PO Box 850 Lebanon, NH (800) 546-5552 www.tascosecurity.com

www.mountainviewpublishing.com •

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advertisers index ACS Design/Build 38 ARC Mechanical 101 Alice Williams Interiors Back cover All Decked Out 111 American Plate Glass 61 Barre Tile 85 Belletetes 41 Bensonwood Construction 7 Biron’s Flooring 85 Blanc & Bailey Construction 40 Boynton Construction 25 Brown’s Floormasters 84 Cabinetry Concepts & Surface Solutions Inside front cover Carpet King & Tile 81 Carroll Concrete 120 Catamount Solar 99 Chew & Co. Design 75 Chippers 110 Claremont Glassworks 43 Coldwell Banker Redpath & Co., Realtors 51 Colonial Woodworking 43 Cota & Cota 96 Creative Lighting Designs & Décor 89 Crown Point Cabinetry 3 db Landscaping 108

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David Anderson Hill 40 Davis Alterations & Building 47 Davis Frame Co. 35 Deck Dock Home & Garden 106 Eastern Propane & Oil 8 Ennis Construction 1 Estes & Gallup 34 FloorCraft 85 Four Seasons/Sotheby’s International Realty 53 GR Porter & Sons 25 GeoBarns 2 Gilberte Interiors 9 Gracehill Construction 48 Hanover True Value 104 Henderson’s Tree & Garden Services 112 Hitchcock Construction 46 Home Comfort Warehouse 99 Illuminations by Barre Electric 92 Jancewicz & Son 39 Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering 48 Landforms Inside back cover LaValley Building Supply 72 & 107 Lawn Master of Vermont 110 Lebanon Paint & Decorating 75 LindeMac Real Estate 55 Loewen Window Center 92

Longacres Nursery Center 103 Love’s Bedding & Furniture 82 MB Pro Landscape Design 105 Mascoma Savings Bank 115 McGray & Nichols 11 Northcape Design Build 13 Oakes Brothers 62 Old Hampshire Designs 42 Perry’s Oil Service 60 Pompanoosuc Mills 5 Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects 34 Richard Electric 96 Riverlight Builders 42 Rodd Roofing 6 Sean’s Lawn N’ Garden Services 109 Shepard Interior Selections 81 Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group 57 Solaflect Energy 101 Springfield Fence 112 Sugar River Bank 117 Sugar River Kitchens, Bath & Flooring 62 Tasco Security 119 The Carriage Shed 111 Timeless Kitchens 60 Vermod 47 Yankee Barn Homes 4

Design

Form Function A Landscape Architects Collaborative

17 Dow Road • Bow, NH 03304 603.228.2858 • Fax 603.228.2859 Peter Schiess ASLA • landformsltd@aol.com www.landformsltd.com

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