Image Magazine's Trend Watch - 2022 Edition

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SPRING 2022

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BUILD, REMODEL & DECORATE

CENTER ATTENTION OF

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contents | spring 2022

82

128 IN THIS ISSUE

22 Your Backyard Can Help Save the Planet

NEED TO KNOW 18 Expert Advice

Geobarns practices site stewardship.

WHAT’S NEW 20 Pantone’s 2022 Color of the Year

32 Doing the Right Thing Since 1984 Old Hampshire Designs builds beautiful structures and solid relationships.

50 Tall Pine Point McGray & Nichols seamlessly blends modern with historic.

58 Creating a Cook’s Dream The perfect kitchen renovation brings family together.

68 Beauty, Functionality, and Craftsmanship Vermont Cabinetry takes storage to the next level.

74 Bright and Beautiful A contemporary kitchen designed to last.

82 From Concept to Completion

128 Luxury in Your Own Backyard Soake Pools can make it happen.

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INTERIOR STYLE 98 True Brilliance 100 Floors for Real Life 104 Go for Timeless Beauty 108 Live in Color 110 Decorating Trends Take a Turn Toward Retro 114 Furnish Your Multiuse Space 116 Double-Duty Pieces Maximize Living Space

INSURANCE 112 Colby Insurance Group: Stay in Touch FINANCE 66 Mascoma Bank: First-Time Home Buyer?

90 Sugar River Bank: Prequalified versus Preapproved: What Is the Difference?

BEAUTIFUL VIEWS 118 Rooms with a View 120 Well-Being Trends in the Home TRENDS FOR TODAY 122 Beautiful Innovations 126 Elegant Upgrades that Stand the Test of Time OUTDOOR SPACES 134 Expand Your Horizons—and Your Space

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

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BUILD, REMODEL & DECORATE

SPRING 2022

An artful update with Studio Sage.

REAL ESTATE 30 Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group: Be Ready to Buy or Sell 46 CB Lifestyles: Give Your Home Worldwide Exposure 78 LindeMac Real Estate: Streamline the Process 106 Pierce McLaughry Group: Navigating the Changing Market

CREATING SPACES 80 Create the Perfect Space for Family and Fun

SPRING 2018

92 Storytelling Through Design

GOING GREEN 137 It’s Time to Go Solar 142 Tracking the Sun to Savings

DREAM BUILDERS 40 Creating Lasting Relationships and Enduring Satisfaction

H E R iE m I Na H V EeR n d Wa t c h g AeN OTr

Trust your project to Gilberte Interiors’ experience and expertise.

138 Modern Comfort Meets Natural Beauty 140 Have a Critter Problem?

143 Spruce Up Your Deck or Porch

SPRING 2022

FEATURES

CENTER OF ATTENTION

CREATE YOUR DREAM SPACE

Cover: Kitchen design

by The Cabinet en-Counter.

Photo by GBH Photography.

image

EDITOR'S NOTE There’s No Place Like Home

W

trend watch 2022

e all know that sentiment from The Wizard of Oz, and it’s stuck with us all these years

because we really feel it deep in our bones. Dorothy could have simply said, “I want to go home,” but instead she voiced a universal truth—our homes are our havens and our refuges. Where else can you relax, put your feet up, and forget about the stresses of the day? No one cares if you wear your baggy sweatpants and a tee-shirt with holes—just be

PHOTO BY IAM RAYMOND

Mountain View Publishing, LLC 135 Lyme Road Hanover, NH 03755 (603) 867-9339 www.greateruppervalley.com Publishers

Bob Frisch Cheryl Frisch Executive Editor

comfortable and happy.

Deborah Thompson

If it’s in your budget to do a remodel or a major renovation this year, that’s

Associate Editor

great. As you can see in these pages, there are plenty of talented professionals in our area to accomplish whatever you have in mind. But if you’re not able to make a big change, don’t fret. Think about some smaller ways to refresh your living spaces.

I personally love area rugs. I adore them and have at least eight of them.

That’s because every six months or so I like to change them out, usually with the seasons. (I highly recommend buying a steam carpet cleaner. I’ve had my Hoover for years and it still makes my rugs look like new.) I also like to swap

Kristy Erickson Contributors

Mark Aiken, Anne Richter Arnold, Pamela Brown, Katherine P. Cox, Mary Gow, Tareah Gray, Mike Morin, Susan Nye, Dian Parker, E. Senteio Creative Director/Design

Ellen Klempner-Béguin Advertising Design

Marston Creative Web Design

out throw pillows, decorative accessories, and artwork. If you keep a neutral

Locable

background with walls, floors, and large furniture pieces, it’s easy to change

Advertising

accents. Add fresh greens and blues (or pinks) for spring and introduce orange and gold for fall. At Christmastime, add pops of red. You’ll have fun, and I promise you’ll never be bored with your rooms.

Transform a bathroom with a fresh coat of paint and a new faucet. Go for that farmhouse sink you’ve always wanted and treat yourself to new cabinet hardware. The possibilities are endless, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot to update a room or two. You’ll see lots of beautiful ideas in this issue, and we want to thank the local community for sharing their projects with us. Which one do you want to do first at your home? Enjoy!

Deborah Thompson Executive Editor dthompson@mountainviewpublishing.com

LIKE US www.facebook.com/greateruppervalley

16 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

2022

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 ©2022. 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 As far as we know, almost no one has an unlimited budget for home improvements, so we polled local contractors and business owners to find out what they view as important.

WE ASKED

If a homeowner can do only one project this year, what should it be? Why? HERE’S WHAT THEY SAID.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY Making sure your attic is well insulated and air sealed is the biggest bang for the buck. As heat rises, it creates the “stack effect,” which will draw in air from lower points of the house.

Stopping the heat loss will help prevent that from happening and hold the heat in, keeping heat from escaping to your roof.

Jason Beaudry, Claremont Spray Foam

HOME OFFICE Create an area to establish a dedicated workspace. Even as we might be returning to offices and schools, we have learned that we need to make our homes flexible. Creating spaces that promote focus and are well-designed is important. We need to be comfortable and have appropriate lighting and enough workspace but also be able to walk away from work to balance home life.

Cheryl Boghosian, Gilberte Interiors

CHANGING YOUR VIEW Install new window treatments. Window treatments provide a fresh look to any room plus give you the benefit of energy efficiency.

John Rescigno, Lebanon Paint & Decorating

THE BATHS HAVE IT Remodel your bathroom! Over a three-year period, a remodeled bathroom will return 100 percent of its investment. You also get the obvious benefit of using that fresh and updated space!

Rand Hinman, Director of The Ultimate Bath Store, North 18 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

2022

WHAT’S NEW

Pantone’s 2022

Color of the Year

Very Peri PANTONE®

17-3938 VERY PERI

WE ARE LIVING IN TRANSFORMATIVE TIMES, and Very Peri, Pantone’s Color of the Year 2022, is a symbol of transition. “As we move into a world of unprecedented change, the selection of Pantone Very Peri brings a novel perspective and vision of the trusted and beloved blue color family,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. Yet at the same time, with its violet undertone, “Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude that encourages creativity and imaginative expressions.”

Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute, adds, “As society continues to recognize color as a critical form of communication and a way to express and affect ideas and emotions and engage and connect, the complexity of this new hue highlights the expansive possibilities that lay before us.”

Encourage your own inventiveness and creativity by incorporating this color into your living space. tw

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BY CASEY WILLIAMS PHOTOS COURTESY OF GEOBARNS

YOUR BACKYARD CAN HELP SAVE THE PLANET

G E O B A R N S P R A C T I C E S S I T E S T E WA R D S H I P

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Opposite: Native plants in farms and gardens will attract the natural enemies of pests that damage crops. Photo by Sara Eastman Weidner.

Below: This new planting will be pleasing to the eye and provide food and shelter to many species as it matures.

Photo by Meredith Coe.

Our well-being is dependent upon nature, the resources it provides, the forms of life it supports, and the food it generates.

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I

magine opening your door to a yard filled with wildflowers and teeming with butterflies and songbirds. Imagine yard maintenance transformed from the joyless tasks of mowing and pruning into a simpler, more rewarding role of nurturing and curation. Imagine creating a landscape design that isn’t just

ornamental but becomes a backyard nature preserve all your own.

If you think about it for a moment, you’ll realize we’ve been building “wrong” for decades.

We find a beautiful parcel just right for a dream home. But to build our dream home, we tear open a scar in that beautiful parcel, build, and then cover the remains of the scar with lawn and landscape plants chosen for eye appeal. In doing so, we lose something precious: we’ve disturbed and altered the original biosphere, introduced plants that don’t belong, and created a desert island in the local food chain. In essence, we’ve destroyed the very thing that drew us to buy that beautiful parcel. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

A Nature Preserve at Home A national movement to change the way we landscape and manage our residential properties has been helping more and more homeowners to take charge of the health of our local ecosystems. This is more than planting native species and creating butterfly gardens, although those are important pieces. The idea is to build a healthy micro-ecosystem around our homes in which all orders of native species live and thrive together: microbes, insects, plants, and animals. With a little research and planning, you can create a nature preserve at home.

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Opposite: Incorporating native plants into vineyards attracts beneficial insect species and natural pest control.

Photo by Geobarns staff.

This page: Pollen, nectar, and seedproducing plants create an inviting oasis for birds and butterflies in this low-maintenance backyard park.

Photo by John Sherman.

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HERE ARE EIGHT PRINCIPLES FROM GEOBARNS’ SITE STEWARDSHIP PROCESS YOU CAN IMPLEMENT YOURSELF: • Incorporate a diversity of native plants, which provide habitat and food sources for species at all levels of the food chain.

• Minimize lawn and diversify these areas with clover, thyme, and other low-growing herbs and legumes, which minimize fertilizer demand and provide nectar for local pollinators.

• Plant natural plant communities or guilds that are multifunctional and are naturally found growing together.

These plants provide the benefits of natural fertilizing, repelling pests, attracting pollinators and other beneficial insects, creating mulch, and suppressing grass.

• Reduce the use of pesticides, herbicides, soaps, driveway sealants, and de-icing salts that are toxic to both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

• Manage stormwater, minimize erosion, and enhance soil quality by adding compost, incorporating native plants, preventing compaction, and maintaining or establishing pathways and areas for infiltration.

• Conserve water by hydrozoning plantings and collecting rooftop water for nonpotable uses, such as irrigating gardens, livestock, recreation, and more.

• Limit use of exterior lighting and incorporate dark sky lighting to protect the night skies from light pollution, shield glare, and disruption to circadian rhythms and insect populations.

• Become an advocate for plant and insect conservation by helping to increase awareness and appreciation of insects and countering negative perceptions. This can also involve getting involved in local politics, supporting science, and voting!

RESOURCES GEOBARNS RECOMMENDS Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas W. Tallamy Audubon Native Plants Database: www.audubon.org/native-plants Backyard Parks: www.homegrown nationalpark.org

26 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Left: Careful site stewardship enabled this workshop to gently tuck into an established grove without damaging the trees. Photo by John Sherman.

Below: Native plants don’t have to look wild.

They can also be used in formal garden designs.

Photo by Jeff Wingo.

603-448-2066 Brian@creativelightingdesigns.com Lebanon, NH Olympus Pendants by

Geobarns has been building homes, utility buildings, and commercial venues for more than three decades, often in locations with strict conservation standards. Over the years, we’ve developed a robust process of site stewardship to minimize the impact of construction and restore the natural landscape after completion. While our process is specific and unique to each of our clients’ building sites, our site stewardship principles can be applied anywhere.

Our foundational principle for conservation is simple: no matter what property any of us may own, we are all merely temporary caretakers. We must be good stewards of the land, to disturb it as little as possible, and to conserve and nourish it for future generations to enjoy as much as we do.

Building a Harmonious Relationship Geobarns believes that the design of our buildings and the experience living within them is linked to the health of the land surrounding them. Our well-being is dependent upon nature, the resources it provides, the WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

27

Rainwater is a valuable resource that can be captured, stored, and distributed in whatever ways are determined to be most useful. Photo

by Meredith Coe.

forms of life it supports, and the food it generates. Therefore, landscaping isn’t something done afterwards; it becomes an essential design element as important as siting, drainage, floorplan, and finishes. And it isn’t just “landscaping,” it’s restorative landscaping: repairing the impact of construction and restoring the original ecological web of species and relationships. This is essential to being a good steward of the land, whether a homeowner, builder, or designer.

Too often, we think of human activity and wildlife habitats as forces in conflict. This doesn’t have to be true. Although human activity is negatively impacting our planet in many ways, we are a native species like any other. The conflict is easy to resolve. The solution is to use our knowledge, science, and technology not simply to mitigate negative impacts, but to build a harmonious relationship between our human dwelling places and the natural environments where we build them. Your property and your home can be part of the solution while still providing the lifestyle you want. With forethought and planning, humans and the environment can flourish together.

Geobarns is based in White River Junction, Vermont. Learn more at geobarns.com. tw Geobarns, LLC 704 Kings Highway White River Junction, VT (603) 359-1912 geobarns.com

28 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Crown Select by

A whole new line of custom built inset cabinetry with the impeccable Crown Point fit and finish Handcrafted in New Hampshire and available direct, nationwide

www.crownselect.com 603 • 542 • 3399

Beautifully designed and engineered to be budget friendly

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REAL ESTATE BY MIKE MORIN

Be Ready to Buy or Sell COUNT ON ADVICE AND SUPPORT FROM SNYDER DONEGAN REAL ESTATE GROUP What attracts out-of-town buyers to the Upper Valley as a place to relocate?

There’s an undeniable charm to the Upper Valley that attracts families and businesses alike. The area offers good people, good schools, and strong, safe communities. The natural beauty with seemingly endless recreational options is also a huge draw for people looking to escape more crowded areas for a simpler way of life.

How can you advise customers with what you see for the rest of 2022 and into next year?

The advice we are giving to buyers is to be ready. Get your financials together so that is in place. And get to know the area as much as possible so that when a new property becomes available, you are ready—in every sense of the word—to make a strong offer quickly. Working with a Snyder Donegan agent who knows exactly what you want and do not want will help, as you have local eyes and ears on the ground for you. As for sellers, the market pace has not slowed down, so you are still in a great position to market and sell your property.

David Donegan, Owner

Tell us about your commitment to support community causes.

Part of what makes this area so special is the closeness and authenticity of our

John Snyder, Owner

communities. It’s the essence of our cultural fabric. And since every agent in our firm doesn’t just do business here but actually lives within these communities, many having children in the school systems, we have a vested interest in seeing them thrive and succeed. We see it as our privilege and responsibility as a company to support and contribute to their well-being.

You are selectively seeking talented agents. What attributes make for a good fit with the Snyder Donegan team?

Our agents get highest marks for integrity, trustworthiness, and professionalism, so those are of utmost importance when considering new additions to the team.

Our expectation of agents in every transaction is that they give excellent advice and counsel to our clients every step of the way, from the early discussions on property pricing, timing, and staging/photography/ marketing through to offers and negotiations, and ultimately to a smooth sale and closing. We assist our agents with excellent advice and support whenever they need it. Compared to bigger companies with nonlocal ownership that hire midlevel managers to do oversight of agents in the area, our owners are hands-on in the business and very supportive of each and every member of our team. tw

35 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-0599 5 The Green Woodstock, VT (802) 457-2600 www.snyderdonegan.com 30 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Three Century Farm, Barnard, Vermont.

82 Lords Hill Lane, Hanover, New Hampshire.

www.mountainviewpublishing.com •

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By Mark Aiken

Photography by John W. Hession

DOING THE RIGHT THING SINCE 1984 Old Hampshire Designs builds beautiful structures and solid relationships

Custom cut Douglas fir beams and an open floor plan create a welcoming upper-level living space above the garage.

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Something for everyone: a stylish answer to accommodating both overflow equipment and extra living space for large family gatherings.

O

n a plot of land surrounded by towering pines and granite boulders near Lake Sunapee in New Hampshire sits a beautiful barn structure built by Old Hampshire Designs, a general contracting firm based in New London. The 3,795 square-foot barn—2,340 square feet of which consists of a finished and heated garage—was designed by Bonin Architects, PLLC and includes upstairs

living spaces, a state-of-the-art kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms complete with custom tile showers.

Most impressive are the awesome solid beams of Douglas fir. “They look like they’re growing out of the ceiling,” says the homeowner.

Jay Tucker founded Old Hampshire Designs in 1984 and has designed, built, and remodeled hundreds of homes in the Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee region since that time. Many of his projects include post-and-beam frames cut by Claremont-based Timberpeg, the manufacturing company that gave Jay his first job after graduating from the University of New Hampshire.

Having built both contemporary and timber-frame houses for nearly 40 years, Jay pauses to reflect on what has been most critical to his success.

“It’s simple,” he states. “Relationships.”

Four bays of heated storage and workspace in the lower level.

Beginnings As a college undergraduate, Jay spent every summer working construction for a local home builder. “I started at the very bottom,” he says, noting that 34 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

2022

Above: Efficient Marvin windows combined with large sliding patio doors provide plenty of natural light in a forested setting.

Right: Sugar River Kitchens, Bath, and Flooring designed extensive storage space cabinetry on both levels.

he was an enthusiastic learner. After graduation, he spent his first year at Timberpeg learning how to cut timber-frame packages using giant band saws and other machinery. Before long, he was back on job sites, helping construction crews build houses using the Timberpeg-produced frames. “I had my tool belt back on,” Jay remembers. “And I loved it.”

After three formative years at Timberpeg, Jay decided to branch out on his own. “I was hopeful that I could create a successful design-build company,” he says. “I enjoy meeting clients and working with dealers and suppliers.” However, he hasn’t forgotten where he got his start. Jay’s relationship with Timberpeg took an exciting turn in 1985 when the newly incorporated Old Hampshire Designs became a dealer and is now recognized as the longest-serving Timberpeg representative in New England. His homes, both timber frame and conventional, have garnered several awards in the industry over the decades. “We always try to get Timberpeg involved,” Jay says. The results stand on their own—beautiful homes and scores of satisfied customers.

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“I learned early that if you do the right thing, good things will happen to you,” Jay says.

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Two bedrooms, each with its own bath, make family and guests feel right at home.

There’s plenty of room to make lasting family memories in an elevated living area adjacent to the upstairs kitchen.

Good Things Happen One does not serve successfully in a tumultuous industry for almost four decades without forging lasting relationships. Jay greatly values the dedicated team he has built at Old Hampshire Designs—three office employees, three project managers, three carpenters, and two in-house designers. “We function like a family,” he says, noting that both of his sons work for the company. If Old Hampshire Designs is an immediate family, there is also a much larger extended family, and here is where the relationships Jay fosters really come into play.

When he takes on a new project, Jay doesn’t need to search out plumbers, electricians, and other subcontractors. “We are loyal,” he says, adding that he has subs he likes to work with, and he believes they like to work with him. “We have a reliable reputation.”

As a design/build firm, Old Hampshire Designs coordinates directly with the client throughout the entire building process. They begin with a no-obligation initial review of the building site, followed by conceptual sketches. During the design phase they determine goals, develop a budget, and create a customized plan complete with construction specifications.

They obtain all the necessary permits, manage the subcontractors and billing, and construct the home. The integrated design/build collaborative is a proven construction approach that results in a highly efficient and seamless transition from initial concept to completion. Old Hampshire Designs also enjoys working exclusively as a general contractor and often collaborates with award-winning architects from diverse locations, both locally and nationwide.

Having good relationships with partners in the business also proved to be advantageous in a pandemic climate. Challenges outside of anyone’s control can undermine outfits without established and flexible team-oriented approaches. Supply-chain issues, limited resources, and labor shortages have everyone scrambling, and knowing who you can rely on is critical.

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A classic vaulted timber frame ceiling creates the expansive feel of a great room in the upper-level living area.

Old Hampshire Designs, Inc. 263 Main Street New London, NH (603) 526-6945 oldhampshiredesigns.com ohd@oldhampshiredesigns.com

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“He’s My Guy” This state-of-the-art barn is a prime example of the solid relationships Jay is known for. As the homeowner says, “I interviewed three or four builders when I decided to build a home on Lake Sunapee several years ago. When I met Jay, I stopped the interviews. He was my guy.”

This client had worked with builders in the past—all good ones, he emphasized—but he was struck by Jay’s authenticity and honesty. “He’s genuine,” he says. At the start of the Sunapee project, the snag Jay worried about was hitting ledge during excavation and the delays it could cause. As predicted, they did hit ledge, and there were delays but Jay’s above-board, educational approach with his clients empowers them to rely on his word. “They let me know what was happening at each step in the process.”

When you have success with a builder, you stay with that builder. This timber-frame barn is the third project Old Hampshire Designs and Bonin Architects have completed for this client. The pandemic-related delays they encountered in 2020 were supply-chain issues with both pressure-treated lumber and mahogany. “There were delays,” the homeowner acknowledges.

“They dealt with it.”

Jay Tucker cherishes his relationships with his customers. “I’m a people person,” he says. “There is nothing more rewarding than a satisfied client.

They’re happy to see you when you run into each other at the store,” he says, smiling. “And it’s because of a successful job we did with the team we put together. There’s no bigger reward than that.” tw

The homeowners achieved their goal of making their living space lighter and brighter by adding larger windows and white oak flooring and reclaimed beams and updating the existing fireplace. Design by Frank Anzalone Associates.

Opposite: The light colors and white oak floors continue seamlessly into the new kitchen, creating an efficient flow for a growing family.

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DREAM BUILDERS

BY PAMELA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HESSION

Creating Lasting Relationships and Enduring Satisfaction B E N N E T T B U I L D E R S TA K E S P R I D E I N Q U A L I T Y C O N S T R U C T I O N

J

onathan Bennett is proud to be celebrating five years in business this spring. After working as a sole proprietor for other local builders for many years, Jonathan knew it was time to establish his own company to help homeowners create the home of their dreams and provide exceptional services for all their construction needs. “I decided to branch out on my own because I knew it was time. I wanted to establish my own company with my own personal goals,” says Jonathan, owner of Bennett Builders, a company that serves the Lake Sunapee and Upper Valley regions of New Hampshire. The full-service construction firm offers complete startto-finish new home construction, small or large renovations, garage and barn construction, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, deck and porch construction, roof replacement, and general contracting services.

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DREAM BUILDERS

Striving for Precision and Perfection Two key principles guide Jonathan in his work: superior craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. “I approach each and every project with the knowledge, skill, passion, and attention to detail necessary to produce good-quality construction. I build lasting relationships with all of my clients. I keep in contact with every one of them, and some for several years now,” he says, adding that his close working relationship with industry professionals is a bonus that results in innovative design and fine details. “The most important quality that we bring to our construction is precision. We strive for perfection on even the smallest projects.”

Jonathan and his crew are always willing to return to the site after completion to address any additional issues to make sure every client is satisfied. “My name is written on our signs, so I will stand behind our work 100 percent and ensure that our customers are happy with their investment,” says Jonathan, explaining that technology has revolutionized communication between contractors and homeowners and keeps the process running as smooth as possible.

“Technology such as electronic signatures and texting has reduced the gap with miscommunication and construction delays.”

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“My name is written on our signs, so I will stand behind our work 100 percent and ensure that our customers are happy with their investment,” says Jonathan.

Clockwise from far left: This project involved installing a NanaWall to maximize views of Lake Sunapee.

Each panel folds and slides to the sides of the home’s exterior, creating a wide-open space. Interiors were updated with whitewashed oak floors and custom woodworking. Custom built-ins were installed on both sides of the original fireplace. Working with the homeowner, Bennett Builders was able to create a more modern hand rail.

Project design by Bonin Architects.

Beacons of Beauty A few years ago, Jonathan took on a wholehouse renovation of a lakefront cottage in Newbury. “I worked with the original structure and kept some of the home’s old characteristics. It was one of my biggest projects when I first started out on my own that included custom woodworking, wholehouse upgrades, and all-new energy-efficient features,” he explains. Today, the home is a testament to the talent and expertise of Bennett Builders and stands as a beacon of beauty by Lake Sunapee.

Another project was a complete remodel of a 3,000-square-foot home in New London.

“The interior and exterior were gutted and completely renovated. The homeowner

10 Lovering Lane New London, NH

603.526.2121 www.StudioSageInteriors.com

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DREAM BUILDERS

Estate Wildlife Control, LLC

New Hampshire & Vermont

603.523.9284 Cell:

603.630.8032

www.estatewildlifecontrol.com

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wanted a more modernized feel for the home, so we literally took everything apart from top to bottom,” says Jonathan, who utilized a good amount of reclaimed wood throughout, featuring the hand-hewn beams in the great room and also using the original fireplace but modernizing it while still maintaining a touch of the old-world feel. “We incorporated a lot of light, opening it up and giving it a contemporary feel, and also adding in energy-efficient features.” These homes reflect some of the design trends Jonathan is seeing in the industry, such as lighter colors, reclaimed wood, and use of gold and brass fixtures.

Hands-On Attention To ensure a top-notch end result, Jonathan oversees all construction projects. “I’m constantly on-site at our projects, and usually working with the crews,” he says. He finds the work interesting and engaging.

“Every day is different—there are no two days that are the same so there is never a dull moment. There’s something special about watching a project come together and homeowners getting to see their ideas and plans turn into reality. I have had the pleasure of returning to some of our completed projects, and just seeing a family living in that new space and the way it came together with furniture and decor brings such a feeling of accomplishment and gratitude. It really makes all of the long days worth it.”

Working outdoors, despite the inconsistent New England weather, has never been a bother to Jonathan since he takes pleasure in his career. “I’m not sure anyone would necessarily be surprised, but I am an avid outdoorsman. I will take any opportunity that I can to be outside,” he says. “And I also love to build and fix things, which is probably why I ended up where I am today.” tw

Bennett Builders 256 Main Street New London, NH (603) 456-8942 bennettbuildersllc.com

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PATIOS • WALKWAYS • STONEWORK • WATER FEATURES GARDEN DESIGN • LANDSCAPE LIGHTING • OUTDOOR KITCHENS INDOOR & OUTDOOR FIREPLACES • IRRIGATION • CONCRETE STONE MAKERS

REAL ESTATE BY CHARLENE GAUDETTE

Give Your Home Worldwide Exposure LET COLDWELL BANKER LIFESTYLES HELP SELL YOUR LUXURY PROPERTY

Charlene Gaudette Managing Broker, Hanover Charlene@TheCBLife.com (603) 643-6406

Talk about Coldwell Banker Lifestyles’ early history to where it is today.

Coldwell Banker Lifestyles has grown from one office in New London back in 1939 to 11 today and is recognized as one of Coldwell Banker brand’s most successful independently owned and operated affiliated companies. It’s the dominant real estate company in the Upper Valley, selling more homes than any other brokerage since 2017. One of the reasons for this success is the power of the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program, which propelled Coldwell Banker to sell more than 32,600 US properties over one million dollars at last count, more than any other brand. In just the last three years, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Certified Property Specialists have sold some of the highest priced US homes, including four that topped $120 million.

The brand seems to resonate with many buyers looking for unique properties.

Stefan Timbrell, principal broker of Coldwell Banker Lifestyles, says, “We have several Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Certified Property Specialists who take great pride in how we present, market, and showcase exquisite homes in the Upper Valley to potential buyers in the region and beyond.”

He also points out that Coldwell Banker Global Luxury listings benefit from robust

8 West Wheelock Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-6406 coldwellbankerluxury.com 46 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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marketing and international reach. The Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program is valuable in the Upper Valley, where there were 61 home sales over one million dollars last year, up 53 percent over 2020. The average luxury home sales price in the Upper Valley last year was $1.69 million with the highest sale coming in at $6.89 million. The number of homes sold in the Upper Valley at two million dollars and above jumped from five in 2020 to 11 last year.

Has the pandemic affected interest in luxury homes?

“The pandemic sped up demand for Upper Valley luxury homes because of the area’s beauty, charm, and lifestyle,” says Joe Burns, partner of Coldwell Banker Lifestyles. “The sale of homes priced at one million dollars and above has been fueled by those who vacated urban living in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, and other metropolitan areas. Not only is the number of sales dramatically higher, but so is the pace of the affluent market. Last year it took an average of 63 days to sell a home priced at one million dollars and above. It was 136 days in 2020.”

A Coldwell Banker Lifestyles Luxury Property Specialist is ready to provide your home with worldwide exposure.

Call today, (603) 643-6406. tw

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Spring is a Time to Refresh and Renew...

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Inspiring Happier and Healthier Communities Since 1957 A llen Pools & Spas

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New and old are creatively combined in this 100-year-old lodge.

BY MARY GOW PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM WESTPHALEN

TALL PINE POINT MCGRAY & NICHOLS SEAMLESSLY BLENDS MODERN WITH HISTORIC

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“It was an honor to work with the homeowners, whose focus was to preserve the historic integrity of this amazing property.”

—Chris St. Onge, Owner, McGray & Nichols

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T

he log and Adirondack style fishing lodge at Tall Pine Point has had a unique bond to its setting from the beginning. Built in 1912 on a private point on Lake Sunapee, its design connects with the lake—from its circular log-columned main porch with stunning views to its airy upstairs sleeping porches with lake breezes cooling summer nights. Ties to its spectacular site run

deep. Logs harvested from the point provided lumber for the home. Native rock excavated here shaped its fireplaces. Character and history abound in this property that is so beloved that it has been held by only three families through its many decades.

Above: The lodge was preserved as originally built and is still enjoyed by family and friends.

Opposite: The stone foundation is from the original lodge.

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Marrying Old and New When this lakeside home recently changed hands, the new owners were already acquainted with its charm and longevity. They could see their family spending time together there in the present and future. But they also wanted a home for their contemporary lifestyle. Their vision was to restore the original fishing lodge portion of the home and seamlessly tie it together with a modern new addition with living spaces, style, and energy efficiency.

To bring this vision to reality, they worked with McGray & Nichols of New London, New Hampshire. McGray & Nichols has been crafting exceptional quality homes since 1963, excelling in historic restorations and remodeling as well as

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Clockwise from above: The warm and cozy living room retains the original stone fireplace, log siding, and curved staircase.

A contemporary airy chandelier brings the room up to date. The family room connects the historical part of the home with the new.

Furnished by Kate Malone, it’s a perfect space for gathering.

The kitchen has Vermont soapstone counters on the perimeter and a stainless counter on the island. The custom cabinets were built by NH Woodworks. The new annex “wine room” contains a 1920 photograph of the original owners.

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in new construction. Charles R. Myer and Partners of Cambridge, Massachusetts, were architects for the project, with Kate Maloney Interior Design of Winchester, Massachusetts, tailoring the interiors.

“The focus was on restoring the oldest part of the house and tying it together with new modern addition,” says Michele Bates of McGray & Nichols.

The oldest parts of the home were the original fishing lodge and its boathouse. To move forward, the homeowners decided to remove a 1980s addition wing and expand with additions for a new kitchen and dining area, living spaces, bedrooms, and other features indoors and out. The historic boathouse would also be refreshed. Altogether, the finished home has 9,650 square feet of finished living space.

The great room is perfectly suited for gatherings of family and friends.

Right: Inspired by the homeowner’s belief that “nothing in nature is perfectly straight,” the twig balusters were a collaborative effort by Dan Benedict of Benedict Brothers Construction and Dave Little of Winnipesaukee Forge.

Celebrating Nature, Indoors and Out McGray & Nichols’ expertise in historic properties was key to the lodge restoration, which has distinctive features and finishes of its time. The woods are indoors as well as out including in its exposed logs, wood paneling, and curved staircase with tree trunk newel post and bent wood railing. Logs serve as columns on its expansive porch, as slender supports seem to organically emerge from them like branches to hold WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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the roof. Top to bottom, the century-old woodwork was refreshed—refinished or repainted and wood floors redone.

The home’s connection to the lake was always reinforced by its many windows.

“The windows in the original section of the house are antique glass with narrow grilles. To maintain the look of the original fishing lodge, the owners decided to keep the existing windows and storm panel system,” says Louise Bonfiglio of McGray & Nichols. With specialized craftsmanship and attention to detail, windows were tuned up and reinstalled.

Among the home’s lovely features is a pair of sleeping porches on the second floor. In the early 20th century, before air conditioning when even electric fans were unusual in homes, sleeping porches were popular features of summer homes. A sleeping porch is almost an outdoor bedroom.

Screened on two or three sides, the design allows breezes and air circulation to flow

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Opposite: The lakeside porch features 1920 logs and beautiful lake views.

Left: A bridge walkway to the refurbished boathouse facilitates enjoyment of the lake.

through, offering comfortable nights, yet with protection from mosquitoes and other winged intruders.

“The screens were repaired and the wood refinished, keeping the original patina. The porches also had removable wooden storm panels that were reglazed for use,” says Louise.

Old and new connect comfortably in the design

by Charles R. Myer and Partners. Focus on the lake continues in the new addition, which flows seamlessly from the historic original. The original boathouse, with upstairs guest accommodations and a waterside kitchen, also had a refresh, including with a delightful path and bridge for access. tw McGray & Nichols 9 Newport Road New London, NH (603) 526-2877 mcgray-nichols.com

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BY KATHERINE P. COX PHOTOGRAPHY BY GBH PHOTOGRAPHY

CREATING A

COOK’S DREAM The perfect kitchen renovation brings family together

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A

Hanover homeowner had lived with a dated kitchen that wasn’t what she wanted for too long. So after several years of figuring out exactly what she wanted, she worked with Lois Horan, lead designer at Cabinet en-Counter in Lebanon, and contractor Paul Gerome of Carpentry Craft in West Lebanon, to come up with what is now her dream kitchen.

T he centerpiece is a dramatic, 1 3 -foot granite-topped island where up to seven people can gather around while the homeowner does what she loves best— cook and entertain. “ M y kitchen was over 2 5 years old,” the homeowner says. “ I t j ust wasn’t the kitchen I wanted any longer. I ’m a cook and I spend a lot of time in my kitchen. I wanted an island where my family could sit around and talk and have a glass of wine, and I wanted bigger windows so I could look out over a fabulous view. I wanted a really sleek kitchen; I didn’t want anything on the counters. I spent a few years deciding what I really wanted.

I went to Lois and gave her a list.” Her vision for the kitchen was contemporary with some classic lines.

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Surrounded by the warm Douglas fir timber frame, a custom-designed turned wood and steel chandelier hangs from the cathedral ceiling in the great room.

Clockwise from left: The solarium and bar area was updated to coordinate with the kitchen. Windows were enlarged and arched to blend with other architecture in the house and to maximize the incredible view. The countertop provides plenty of work surface. The trash compactor, dishwasher, and drawers to store dishes, knives, and spices are under the counter.

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BEFORE THE PERFECT SPACE FOR A COOK The kitchen, a small bathroom, and a bar in the adjacent solarium were gutted in March 2020 and the project was completed that August. In addition to all new custom kitchen cabinets and appliances, the job included new flooring, lighting, and windows.

“The homeowner loves to cook, and it was important for her to have a cook’s space with every item exactly where she needed it,” Lois says, “so to that end, lifts were added to the island at each end—one for the Cuisinart and the other for her mixer.

Large appliance garages were added to each end of the kitchen, one for the coffee maker and the toaster, and the other for other small appliances. She also wanted large pot drawers under her cooktop. Pull-outs were added to either side of the range to house utensils and knives on one side and spices on the other.”

There are no upper cabinets. Cabinets are beneath the large island and dishes are in large drawers specifically designed for dishes of all sizes. Likewise, there is a custom space for silver and entertaining utensils, and a large spice drawer.

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“Everything is in its place and behind cabinets,” the homeowner says. The cabinets are an off-white and the island a cherry wood topped with a glamorous gold and black and silver flecked granite, done by Burlington Marble & Granite. The backsplash is made of soft tan subway tiles and the flooring is an off-white porcelain tile. Completing the new kitchen are all new appliances: a GE Profile Smart built-in double convection oven, a GE Profile counter-depth French door refrigerator, a GE Profile built-in touch control induction cooktop with a telescopic downdraft system (“I didn’t want a big hood,” she says), an Asko dishwasher, and a Sharp microwave drawer. The bar area was renovated, too, with lighted glass, a beverage cooler, and a wine cooler, which the homeowners love.

From far left: The refrigerator is flanked by a pantry with pull-out drawers.

Updates in the bar area include lighted cabinets, granite countertops, a wine rack, and a wine cooler. The bathroom near the kitchen was also renovated with new lighting, a vanity, and granite countertops.

A SMOOTH RENOVATION Living through the renovation was a challenge, but her contractor kept things as clean as possible, the homeowner says. “It was a great project,” says Paul Gerome, the contractor. “It was a change WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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The result is a cook’s dream, says the homeowner.

“I adore it. I have everything that I want. Every day we enjoy our kitchen. Cooking in that kitchen is fabulous.”

of pace. It had a more individual feel, such as the details on the island that make it look more like a piece of furniture and less like a storage unit.” The legs were made in the shop, Paul says, where wood panels were cut and joined together into four-sided posts with trimmed molding.

“It’s not often you see an island that large and it really commands attention, but not in a way that’s overwhelming.”

Good communication, clear expectations, and flexibility were key to a smooth renovation, Paul says, and the project reflected the personal interests of his clients. “It’s a really elegant space.” The clients were ready and knew what they wanted, he says. “There were a lot of intentional decisions and thoughtful placement of things, the purposes of the cabinets, what went where.” A good home renovation requires someone who knows how to pull in the other trades, Paul says, and he was able to seamlessly assemble and put together “the pieces of the puzzle.” It all came together really well, he says.

The result is a cook’s dream, says the homeowner. “I adore it. I have everything that I want. Every day we enjoy our kitchen. Cooking in that kitchen is fabulous.” Last July her family gathered to celebrate her mom’s 88th birthday. Her son, daughter-in-law, and their baby (the first grandson) along with the homeowner’s daughter and her husband all arrived from California. “We had four generations gathered around the island!” tw Companies involved in the renovation include: Burlington Marble & Granite (countertops in the kitchen and bar) The Granite Group/Ultimate Bath Store (fixtures, sinks) Bethel Mills (windows) Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering

The 13-foot island accommodates seven barstools, enough for the entire family to gather. The wood tone of the island complements other trim throughout the house.

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Carpet King & Tile (flooring in entry, kitchen, hall, bathroom, bar) Lebanon Paint & Decorating

FINANCE BY MIKE MORIN

First-Time Home Buyer?

MASCOMA BANK IS READY TO HELP

Are there special programs I should know about?

Yes, if you’re a first-time home buyer, we can help! We have a great program that reduces your up-front costs. Specifically, this includes a down payment as low as 3 percent and we’ll even pay $4,000 toward your closing costs.

Sherry Noyes Mascoma Bank NMLS #1135349 80 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 443-8684 sherry.noyes@ mascomabank.com

What is the best advice that you would give to a first-time home buyer?

It’s not as scary as it seems, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are a lot of moving pieces to make a home purchase work, and we’re here to help you navigate it so your loan goes smoothly. Talk to a mortgage professional and get preapproved.

Going through the preapproval process will help you understand what to expect when you find a house and give you a head start on having all your financial ducks in a row.

What are some mistakes that first-time home buyers can easily avoid?

Hire an experienced buyer’s agent. In a market that is this competitive, it can be a real mistake not to use a real estate agent.

A Realtor’s knowledge and expertise will not only assist you in selecting a home but also guide you through negotiations and help you with the details of your contract.

80 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 443-8684 mascomabank.com 66 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

The agent will provide you with guidance including what to watch for while touring homes, help with negotiations, assistance locating a home inspector, and insight into what to expect on closing day.

What types of things might hold up the loan process and how can I avoid them?

First, talk to your lender about what financial documents you will need. Then get all your documents submitted to the lender as soon as possible. It is possible there will be some small delays related to title issues or delays with an appraisal that need to be resolved prior to closing, but that’s just the reality of buying a home. If you can take care of the pieces you can control, that will leave more time to handle surprises if they come.

Why do you feel home inspections are still an important part of buying a home?

Many customers have discovered very costly issues during an inspection that were not obvious when they were making their offer. Without an inspection, you may have purchased a home only to encounter costly repairs or safety issues soon after you buy it. Even in this competitive market where people are waiving inspection contingencies to try to get the deal, you’ll be glad you spent the money on the home inspection. tw

Disclosures: A loan amount of $200,000 with 20% down, with an interest rate of 4% (Annual Percentage Rate of 4.022) will result in a monthly principal and interest payment of $4.77 per thousand. Rate subject to change without notice. Other fees may apply for a down payment lower than 20%. Subject to credit acceptance and property approval. Homeowner’s insurance and flood insurance (if applicable) required. Payments do not include Real Estate Taxes and Insurance. Maximum loan is $500,000.

2022

COUNT ON THE LOCAL EXPERTS No one knows more about the ins and outs of financing and closing on a home in this market than the Mascoma Bank mortgage team. Their local knowledge and connections are the key to making your home purchase a smooth and efficient process. Last year, Mascoma Bank financed 400 million dollars in home mortgages.

Upper Valley

Sherry Noyes

NMLS #1135349 603.443.8684 Sherry.Noyes@ mascomabank.com

Upper Valley & Lake Sunapee Region

Jim Giller

NMLS #1026709 603.276.0726 Jim.Giller@ mascomabank.com

Lake Sunapee Region

Cathy Murray

NMLS #430080 603.843.7772 Cathy.Murray@ mascomabank.com

Quechee & Woodstock

Norm Frates, Jr

NMLS #126323 802.280.4281 Norm.Frates@ mascomabank.com

If you want to finance with lenders who will help you every step of the way and have a name New Hampshire and Vermont sellers trust, call Mascoma Bank today.

888.627.2662

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Shaker-style frameless overlay cabinetry in Benjamin Moore White Dove combines with an island painted in Benjamin Moore Blue Spruce. Accents in walnut for the open shelving and the range hood along with brass cabinet pulls, shelf supports, and lighting create a perfect balance. The range hood is custom designed and built by Vermont Cabinetry.

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BY E. SENTEIO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANFUSCO IMAGING UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Beauty, Functionality, and Craftsmanship VERMONT CABINETRY TAKES STORAGE TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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T

he last time you were looking for a home, what was one of the first things you did when you walked into the kitchen? How about into the bathroom?

Maybe the laundry room? Did you open the cabinet doors, pull out the drawers? Look around for storage? The answer is likely, yes.

Cabinetry is an integral part of any home, just as Vermont Cabinetry is an enduring part of the Upper Valley.

For 40 years, the company located in North Walpole, New Hampshire, has been designing and building custom cabinetry. Chances are, you or someone you know is living in a house or condominium with cabinetry they’ve created. From a single vanity to a condominium complex, they’ve done it all, and “we don’t discriminate on job size,” says John Abrahamsen, designer and sales manager at Vermont Cabinetry. And although the company has designed and built cabinetry for locations as far away as Long Island, New York, and Boston, Massachusetts, what they enjoy most, according to John, is “doing work in our own backyard.”

BE BOLD. BE BRASS. In his almost two decades in the industry, John has seen trends come and go. While cherrywood cabinetry was once the rage, more recently, customers are trending toward bold, darker painted colors. “In the last two years, deep blues, brighter greens, and darker hues of gray are in demand, and white oak and walnut are also 70 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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Opposite: A solid walnut cabinet creates the perfect wet bar. A builtin beverage cooler and open shelves above keep items organized.

Left and below: Built-in appliances are a frequent request. A microwave drawer on the side of an island and a built-in refrigerator make for a seamless design.

popular.” With a clear natural finish, like Danish oil on white oak, John says, you still get the protection of a finish yet retain the beauty of the wood’s natural grain with a bit of a light tint and without that high sheen. The cut of the wood— plain, rift, or quarter sawn—will determine the grain pattern from rustic to contemporary. You can also say goodbye (for now) to satin drawer pull and handle finishes, as brass hardware, which pairs nicely with the current trends, is making a comeback.

NOT MOTHER HUBBARD’S CUPBOARD Cabinets have to be functional; that much has not changed, but what has is that “they have gotten better,” says John. Much like how the “large, clunky” add-on for soft-close drawers is now small and barely noticeable, “there’s an array of high-quality slides and hinges, better functionality, and different cabinetry materials.

There’s a material almost indistinguishable from real wood because it has a grain and texture. Not only is it ecologically friendly because it’s made from recycled materials, but its laser-edge seal keeps out moisture and prevents warping, making it stable and durable.” Color options abound, and cleanup is a breeze.

On the horizon, John sees more of the touchless self-opening drawers, some with lighted tracking.

They may be sans external hardware, but they’ll need power to operate. And while lazy Susans are useful in a corner cabinet, the LeMans pull-out wrap-around shelves offer a brilliant and even more convenient option at a slightly higher price. Having a hard time reaching those upper shelves in the kitchen, pantry, or bedroom closet? Consider pull-down shelves or builtin pull-out footstools (that double as extra WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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storage). Across the industry, you can find eye-catching solutions in a range of prices to increase storage with improved efficiency and durability.

Above: A Martha’s Vineyard kitchen with framed inset cabinets and soapstone countertops keeps its airy feel with light walls and floors, perfect for a setting on the water. Photo by Libby Ellis.

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PLAN AHEAD With lockdowns and remote work, people are spending more time and money in their homes. “They took their traveling money and put it into their houses,” says John.

So if you’re considering new cabinetry, plan ahead. “Watch how you cook and interact with your kitchen before you go into the process.” That way, it’s easier to know not only what you want aesthetically but also what you need for efficiency and storage. Stop by Vermont Cabinetry’s showroom to browse the different styles and configurations that are possible. Try out the doors and drawers, see the various colors and finishes. A remodel can be disruptive.

“The more you know what you like and don’t like, the smoother and quicker the process can go.”

To get you started, give Vermont Cabinetry your floorplan or a sketch of your wall space, and they’ll draw up a free design and estimate. John says they work with homeowners or business contractors, architects, and builders for a coordinated and comprehensive design and strategy. “We’ve developed a lot of strong relationships over the years, and we like when our cabinets go in the way they’re supposed to and the way the customer expects.” Business is booming for the industry nationwide, and like so many others, there are supply-chain issues, so give yourself time. “Right now, after everything is signed off on, know you’re looking at an 8- to 12-week time frame.”

QUALITY CARE Whether you own a house, a cabin, or a condominium complex, when you walk through the doors of Vermont Cabinetry, John says, “We’re going to treat you like this is a one-person shop and offer one-on-one personalized service, but we’re scalable to the size of the job, no matter how large or small.”

Cabinetry can be both beautiful and functional.

Maybe you’re considering kitchen cabinets, a

A built-in vanity and matching bench with open shelving for baskets.

bathroom vanity, a bedroom closet, a laundry room, a pantry, a mudroom, a pool area, an office or study, a garage or storage area; whether you’re looking for a focal point or a nearly invisible wall of storage, from the design studio to your doorstep, from high-quality craftmanship to personalized service, Vermont Cabinetry can turn your space from dysfunctional to efficient, from shabby to chic, and from your dream to your reality. tw Vermont Cabinetry 5 Dunning Lane North Walpole, NH (802) 463-9930 vermontcustomcabinetry.com

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BY SUSAN NYE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GBH PHOTOGRAPHY

Bright and

Beautiful

A CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN DESIGNED TO LAST

This kitchen features maple wall cabinets painted white, weathered quartersawn white oak base cabinets, and maple island and bar cabinets accented with a custom color and topped off with a Calacatta Natura polished quartz countertop.

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W

hen the new homeowners purchased their traditional colonial, they knew they wanted to make some immediate changes.

Like many mid-century homes, it was dated, especially the kitchen and bathrooms, plus it had a few too many walls.

Wendy Williamson, designer at Domus Builders, worked with the owners to open up the house and give it a more contemporary look. First among several projects was a new, family-friendly kitchen.

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Teaming up with Shaker Hill Granite, Wendy reinvented the already large kitchen into a space that is perfect for cooking and socializing. “The home has wonderful large windows and we wanted to take advantage of the light and the views,” says Wendy. After talking with the homeowners to understand their needs and wants, Wendy developed the design, layout, and color palate. She then worked with Cabinetry Specialist John Napsey and Production Manager Shawn Bronson at Shaker Hill Granite to make the concept a reality.

TIMELESS STYLE Busy professionals, the couple wanted a kitchen that looked great and was easy to clean and maintain. The kitchen is now contemporary but timeless. The materials, style, and colors look wonderful today and will still look beautiful for years to come. John helped Wendy and her clients take the design from concept to reality. Together they made sure that everything worked and worked together.

The quartz countertops are bold, beautiful, and indestructible. Quartz is becoming increasingly popular, particularly with younger homeowners. It comes in a variety of colors and designs. In this case, the countertops have the look of marble with none of the hassle. The quartz surface requires no maintenance; the nonporous surface makes it impervious to stains. For aesthetics, the waterfall edge on both ends of the island creates a dramatic statement.

Advances in software technology continue to play a key role in design, including creating the flawless waterfall.

Shawn and his team lined up the slabs digitally to ensure a perfectly matched edge.

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Opposite: The open yet welcoming space invites family members to partake in daily activities.

Right and below: This galley-style kitchen allows for multiple cooks and workstations.

Also on trend, the custom-made, high-end cabinetry combines different door styles and colors. Combining two different cabinet colors in a kitchen is increasingly popular, but Wendy and the homeowners took it a step further with three. The base cabinets are weathered white oak. Overhead, the maple cabinets have a white finish. The island and bar are accented with a custom color. Regardless of color, the cabinets’ simple frames are easy to wipe and keep clean.

BRING IN THE PROS Unless your project is a simple one-for-one replacement of cabinets and countertops, “Work with professionals,” recommends John. “Any complex design needs the advice of a designer and/or architect. For implementation, a general contractor has all the subs ready to go for plumbing, electrical, and flooring. Along with Domus, we work with many general contractors to provide cabinets, countertops, and tile.”

When it comes to complex remodels, particularly when kitchens and baths are involved, Wendy advises, “If you can move out during the renovation, do it. While the crews are always respectful, a remodel is invasive.

There are people in your home every day.” In addition, for the past years, everyone seems to have decided to renovate. Wendy cautions homeowners, “Lead times for just about everything—materials and subcontractors— are long and often unpredictable. Another unfortunate issue, prices on just about everything continue to go up. Homeowners need to be prepared for changes: changes in timeline and changes in costs.” Wendy urges clients, “Be patient. It really is worth it.” tw Domus Custom Builders 8 Great Hollow Road Hanover, NH (603) 643-4114 www.domusbuilt.com Shaker Hill Granite 17 Granite Place Enfield, NH (603) 632-9800 www.shakerhillgranite.com WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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REAL ESTATE BY MIKE MORIN

Streamline the Process THE EXPERTS AT LINDEMAC REAL ESTATE CAN ASSIST YOU

Linde McNamara Principal Broker Owner

What steps should buyers take when they realize they will be in the market to buy a home?

1. Determine how much you can afford by contacting your local bank and getting a preapproval letter for your loan. Compare different lenders to be sure you are getting the best terms.

2. Ask your lender for a checklist of what paperwork you will need to provide for your mortgage. Create a folder so these are readily available when you need them.

3. Clearly prioritize what you are looking for in a home (number of bedrooms, amount of land, etc.).

4. Research areas that you are interested in and visit open houses there. Be sure to include tax information. Tax burdens can vary greatly between states and counties so you will want to factor them into your decision.

5. Research your local real estate agent choices. Don’t be impressed by flashy advertising. You need someone who wants to put you first. Actively interview them.

This person will be guiding you through very important decisions.

6. Hire a local real estate agent and begin your search for a new home!

44 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-4900 www.lindemac.com 78 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

Hanover, New Hampshire.

2022

During a seller’s market, what advice would you share with buyers who may encounter a lot of competition from other interested buyers for the same property?

When inventory is tight, it’s all about streamlining the process. The buyer needs to be ready to act quickly and be ready to write a winning offer. A good agent will find out the motivations of a seller, like a desirable closing date, and pass them on to the buyer in order to make their offer as attractive as possible. A tight competitive market is not the right environment in which to try to negotiate. A buyer may get only one chance, so they need to be ready to come in with their highest and best offer.

What sets LindeMac Real Estate apart from other real estate companies?

We are a boutique real estate company who specializes in the Upper Valley area. Our diverse real estate knowledge and extensive experience mean that you can be assured you are getting the best support and guidance to work with you. Two key strengths set us apart: Our Team Approach When you hire LindeMac Real Estate, you get a team of real estate professionals with decades of experience in the Upper Valley real estate market. Our small size allows us to give you highly personal and attentive service tailored to your requirements.

Our Local Knowledge and Market Dominance Linde McNamara has been in real estate for the past 29 years and has been a top producer in the Upper Valley every year. She began her career with another well-known real estate company in Hanover and was a top producer there for 18 years before deciding to start her own company, LindeMac Real Estate, LLC. The Upper Valley is a unique market. The professionals at LindeMac Real Estate know this market, know the players involved, know how they work, and what influences the market. tw

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CREATING SPACES Photos courtesy of Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects

CREATE THE PERFECT SPACE FOR FAMILY AND FUN R A ND AL L T. MUDG E & A SSO CIATES A RCHI TECTS CA N FULFI LL Y OUR NEEDS

C

reating spaces for recreation and family is a trend that the team at Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects has been seeing recently, says Willl Mudge, AIA. One example is an addition on the Connecticut River. “Our clients had a very nice three-bedroom cape house on a beautiful site on the Connecticut River, but it was not big enough to accommodate their many interests and the families of their many adult children,” says Will. The clients were, among other things, master gardeners, avid rowers, and artists.

“We created an addition that provided a new mudroom, laundry room, office, and art studio on the ground floor and two guest bedrooms

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with a shared guest bathroom on the upper level.” The addition was thoughtfully sited to capture the views down the river as well as create a southern roof exposure for a new solar array.

The addition was only one element of how Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects made a beautiful, functional space for this family’s many interests. “We developed a post-and-beam barn to accommodate a potting shed (that is currently home to a printing press as well) with a glass overhead door, indoor and outdoor rowing scull storage, a chicken coop, vehicle parking, and general storage,” says Will. tw

Opposite: The light-filled art studio. Photo by GBH Photography. Inset: Starting vegetables in wintertime in the potting room. Photo by RTM&A. Above: The restored antique stove inherited from the client’s parents creates a focal point between the art studio and the office. Photo by GBH Photography.

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

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A soft palette creates a calm and inviting space for this busy family. Custom lighting created locally gives a perfect accent to the kitchen.

Opposite: Gilberte paid special attention to the exterior stone and paint color choices in order to bring those tones inside the home as well.

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BY ANNE RICHTER ARNOLD DESIGN AND STYLING BY CHERYL BOGHOSIAN, ASID PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLES PARKER

CONCEPT TO COMPLETION FROM

TRUST YOUR PROJECT TO GILBERTE INTERIORS’ EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE

T

he team of design experts at Gilberte Interiors takes projects from start to finish with professionalism and

attention to detail, turning ideas into dreamhome realities. Gilberte Interiors’ team solves even the most difficult design challenges through exceptional service and products.

From small renovations to collaborating with a team of architects, contractors, and specialists on a large project, the team brings insight and experience to turn a house into a home.

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The dining area is highlighted with a custom-designed pendant light that floats in the space.

Opposite: Creating a space filled with natural materials is a perfect combination with the view overlooking the Vermont landscape.

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Creating Beautiful, Functional Interiors

“It’s always a joy to be invited to work on a family’s dream,” says Cheryl.

The design firm and retail showroom, founded in 1967 by Gilberte and Andy Boghosian, has a mission: to create beautiful, functional interiors that address the needs and reflect the individual style of their clients. For the last 30 years, Gilberte Interiors has been under the leadership of the founders’ children, Cheryl and Aharon. Cheryl, an ASID accredited interior designer, brings her creative vision to projects, works closely with Aharon, president, whose industry experience and attention to detail help make each project come together seamlessly.

“Sometimes we are the first people to touch a project, and sometimes we are brought in to work with contractors and builders who have already begun the process of transforming a space into that which reflects the client’s wishes,” says Cheryl. “Both types present their own sets of challenges, and each offers its own flavor of reward.”

Recently Gilberte Interiors was asked to help clients with a second home project in Vermont that they took from start to finish.

“It’s always a joy to be invited to work on a family’s dream,” says Cheryl. “For this project, the family contacted us when they were still reviewing architectural plans, and we immediately began building a conceptual direction based on the family’s lifestyle and the unique siting of this proposed home on a wonderful parcel of land WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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Above: The sunroom, with its wideopen view, has customfabricated motorized blinds to make this room comfortable every day of the year.

Near right: The kitchen counters and backsplash were fabricated with attention to placement of the natural veins.

Far right: The master bath offers plenty of storage and counter space. Custom cabinetry was fabricated locally.

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with a commanding view overlooking Quechee, Vermont. The challenge and fun in this design was to create warm, inviting spaces allowing people to relax and enjoy time together without trying to compete with the view.”

Construction happened during the pandemic when supply chains were disrupted, and many industries were put on hold. Gilberte Interiors sourced primarily from American factories and avoided some delays. With its own inhouse workrooms, Gilberte Interiors could control fabrications, and the enduring relationships they have cultivated with a local cabinetry fabricator and stone/yard fabrication firm helped the project stay on schedule.

“Our extensive experience in design, fabrication, and sourcing lets us offer solutions that are well thought out and well designed, for these and all of our clients. Because we can do so much with our skilled team and we have a larger team in the community, the summer of 2021 saw this house filled with the happy laughter of children and grandchildren as the family finally made this beautiful space their own.”

fabricators, and installers.”

The resources of Gilberte Interiors at their Hanover, New Hampshire, showroom give clients a wide range of options and styles to create exactly what they desire in their home, for every room and every taste.

“Our showroom and library are extensive,” says Cheryl. “We have everything at our fingertips, from bath and kitchen fittings to textiles, lighting, and furnishing elements.

“Another factor that allows us to manage all ranges of projects seamlessly is the

dedication of our team. We have a fantastic group of professionals that works well together. This means that everyone has a role in creating success.”

A Solid Team Gilberte Interiors prides itself on also working well with architects, builders, and tradespeople to complete a project.

“We enjoy this collaborative effort and feel we can enhance a project, making the process easier for the team, which

Balancing Function and Style Cheryl explains what makes Gilberte Interiors capable of working on any size project from start to finish. “First, and most important, we listen to our clients—their lifestyle, needs, and how rooms will be used. Our goal is to create the perfect space for our client to feel happy and at home,” says Cheryl. “Really understanding the client’s needs allows us to provide a final outcome that exceeds expectations.”

Cheryl continues, “Once we know how they use the spaces and their lifestyles, we then can generate a design plan, balancing the function with style and taste.

What makes our firm stand out is this ability to design, but then follow through from creating plans and specifications to providing all the materials and furnishings. We have in-house workrooms,

BE INSPIRED BY THE SPACES AROUND YOU

scan to visit our website

Explore the possibilities at Windows & Doors By Brownell PowerHouse Mall, 8 Glen Road West Lebanon, NH | (603) 298-5555 wdbrownell.com WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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produces a great project for our clients.

We can enhance the experience for our clients and make the design, selection, and solution process easier for contractors, tradespeople, architects.”

One team partner is Jamey Ennis of Ennis Construction, which has been building exceptional homes for families across the Upper Valley since 1980. Jamey, who has worked on numerous projects with Gilberte Interiors, comments on how the working relationship helps them achieve success.

“At first, we had clients who wanted their feedback on designs for bathrooms and kitchens—especially tile selections, fixtures, and other materials,” says Jamey.

“Soon we realized what an impact Gilberte Interiors could make by shaping designs for the whole house.

“There are at least 50 major decisions a homeowner needs to make during the construction process, and then cascades of small decisions are made off those.

Some people know what they want right off the bat, but most have more of a sense of what they like but do not exactly know what they want or how to get there. Cheryl and Aharon know how to translate those feelings into spaces and help them make and shape decisions. It gives homeowners peace of mind to have a guide who will collaborate with us as a team to implement that vision. That allows me to focus on the building science and making sure everyone is tight in terms of communication on every other part of the project.”

“We are uniquely qualified to handle even the most complex and sophisticated design project,” says Cheryl. “Our design firm has been in practice for 55 years, and we have both the training and experience to lead a project from conception to completion.

Our eye to detail and our ability to see the whole project through, from creating the concept to moving-in day, makes us stand out.” tw Gilberte Interiors, Inc. 10 Allen Street Hanover NH (603) 643-3727 www.gilberteinteriors.com

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- BARNS - CERTIFIED HOMES - GARAGES - SHEDS - RUN-IN SHEDS - GAZEBOS - ARENAS - PLAY STRUCTURES -

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FINANCE BY TERRI CRATE

Prequalified Versus Preapproved: What Is the Difference?

SUGAR RIVER BANK MAKES THE MORTGAGE PROCESS LESS DAUNTING

The two key steps in the mortgage application process are sometimes used interchangeably.

There are important differences that every home buyer should understand. Sugar River Bank offers both options for home buyers.

Terri Crate VP, Loan Origination Officer Sugar River Bank Grantham/Upper Valley NMLS #419840 (603) 381-3096 tcrate@ sugarriverbank.com sugarriverbank. mortgagewebcenter.com

10 North Main Street Newport, NH (603) 863-3000 NMLS #419770 www.sugarriverbank.com

Prequalification: The First Step Getting prequalified involves the borrower supplying a bank or lender with their overall financial picture, including debt, income, and assets. The lender reviews the information and gives an estimate of how much the borrower can expect to borrow.

Prequalification can be done over the phone or online, and there’s usually no cost involved.

Prequalification is a quick process to obtain a prequalification letter. One thing to note is that loan prequalification does not always include an analysis of credit reports or an in-depth look at the borrower’s financial ability to purchase a home.

The initial prequalification step can open a discussion with the borrower to determine any specific needs they may have regarding a mortgage. The lender will explain various mortgage options and recommend the type of loan that may best suit the home buyer.

One of the first questions a real estate agent will ask of a potential buyer is if they have been prequalified, and what their status is. The Realtor usually keeps a copy of the prequalification letter on file.

Keep in mind, it’s just the amount the borrower might expect to borrow and does not provide any commitments; thus, a prequalified buyer doesn’t carry the same weight as a preapproved buyer, who has been more thoroughly investigated.

MEMBER FDIC | EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

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The Preapproval Process: More Conclusive A prequalification provides a good indication of creditworthiness and one’s ability to borrow, but a preapproval is generally the definitive word. To get preapproved, the borrower must complete a formal mortgage application, as well as supply the lender with all the necessary documentation to perform an extensive credit check and financial analysis. The lender will then offer a mortgage loan preapproval up to a specified amount.

Going through the preapproval process also offers a better idea of the interest rate to be charged and a discussion of the best loan option available.

Lenders will provide a conditional commitment in writing for an exact loan amount, allowing borrowers to look for homes at or below that price level with much higher confidence than provided by a prequalification. This puts borrowers at an advantage when dealing with a seller because they’re one significant step closer to getting an actual mortgage.

Both processes give potential home buyers a good idea in advance of how much house they can afford; however, sellers are generally more willing to negotiate with home buyers who are preapproved. As preapproved borrowers are further along in the loan process, they are more likely to close on a home purchase more quickly, offering a distinctive edge in a competitive market. tw

Pre-Approvals at Your Hometown Bank.

NEWPORT

Neal Meagher VP, Senior Retail Loan Officer NMLS #1049365

603.477.3017 nmeagher@sugarriverbank.com

GRANTHAM/ UPPER VALLEY

Terri Crate VP, Loan Origination Officer NMLS #419840

603.381.3096

At Sugar River Bank, we make the home buying experience a lot easier for you.

During every step of your journey, from pre-approval to selecting the right mortgage program, to closing on your new home, you can expect personal service from our lending professionals.

800.562.3145 sugarriverbank.com Newport | Sunapee | New London Warner | Grantham | Concord Member FDIC | EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

tcrate@sugarriverbank.com

NEW LONDON/ SUNAPEE

Colleen DeAngelis Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #2053914

603.454.4628 cdeangelis@sugarriverbank.com

NEWPORT/ CLAREMONT

Tor Stenberg Loan Originator NMLS #2139989

603.680.9069 tstenberg@sugarriverbank.com

CONCORD/ WARNER

Ellen Lessard Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1597160

603.477.7891 elessard@sugarriverbank.com

Start your app on-line: sugarriverbank.com/loans/mortgage www.mountainviewpublishing.com •

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BY SUSAN NYE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA MOJZESZ, TOP KAT PHOTOGRAPHY

AN ARTFUL UPDATE WITH STUDIO SAGE

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The original structure was built in the 1980s.

"We had the great fortune to partner with clients who approached the project with our same curiosity and intention to take this existing structure and give it new energy."

-Amanda Raymond, Principal Designer, Studio Sage.

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Quartered cherry slab cabinets with a natural finish are the centerpiece of the kitchen. Panelized state-of-the-art appliances, a base pull-out spice unit, tray divider, and floating shelves make the space as functional as it is beautiful.

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D

esigning a home’s interior, or even a single room, is a big responsibility.

“Designers are storytellers,” says Amanda Raymond, owner and principal designer at Studio Sage. “We tell our clients’ stories—what they love, how they live.” She adds, “All of us at Studio Sage share a

passion for design and for our clients. We know that good design can do more

Above: A once-vaulted ceiling was closed off to create an office space, a must-have for today’s work-from-home lifestyle. Rugs

by Little River Oriental Rugs.

Below: A mesh-back mosaic shower wall selected by the homeowners is the perfect focal point in this custom shower.

than create beautiful surroundings; it can make life easier and better.”

For a recent renovation in Sunapee, a high priority was set on family-friendly comfort and durability. “The family wanted a warm and welcoming space that was easy to maintain and fit their busy lives,” Amanda says. A second home, the homeowner explains, “Our house was built in the 1980s and we were really ready for a change. The very awkward, original kitchen wasn’t working for us. The bathrooms had never been updated plus we needed a powder room and a larger mudroom for all our gear. We wanted our house to match the beauty of the surrounding environment and the needs of our active family.” Amanda adds, “Low maintenance

is a common thread in our practice. Our clients are on the mountain in winter and in the lake during the summer. I’ve yet to meet a homeowner with a strong desire to spend a lot of time fussing and maintaining their vacation home.”

Communication Is Key Good design starts and ends with dynamic, ongoing collaboration between the designer, the client, and the contractor.

“Communication is key,” says Amanda.

GraceHill Construction served as general contractor on the project. “New build or remodel—creating a home for someone is a very intimate experience. The client WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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Enjoy Your Property

Info & Quotes

603.448.5625

Lawn Cut, Trim, Mulch & Weed Deck & Patio Care - Winterizing Spring, Fall & Storm Cleanup

www.serenitypropertymaintenancenh.com 96 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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brings us into their lives and shares details of their lifestyle.” Wary of buzzwords, Amanda asks lots of questions and uses lots of visuals to understand what the client actually means by Scandinavian ski house or lake retreat.

Renovation, addition, or new build, Amanda knows it is a very stressful time for the client. Thousands, sometimes hundreds of thousands, of dollars are involved. Especially with remodels, there are always surprises and too many are far from happy ones. Throughout COVID, price hikes and supply-chain issues have created constant nightmares for homeowners, designers, and contractors.

The majority of Studio Sage projects take somewhere between 9 and 18 months. From quick phone calls to longer on-site or Zoom meetings, frequent, at times almost daily, communications are an important part of the process.

Good news or bad, Amanda earns her clients’ trust by staying in constant contact. “Design is a highly personal experience,” she says, “By spending time with our clients and understanding their lifestyle, we help them build a home they love and can live in—happily and comfortably.”

Balancing Form and Function For this and all projects, Studio Sage strives to be experimental with different materials and then seamlessly integrate the various pieces into a cohesive design.

For this lake house, clean, modern lines were dynamically paired with different textures, graphic shapes, and hints of bold color. Throughout the renovation, the team worked meticulously to balance form and function. The new flooring, countertops, cabinets, tile, fixtures, and furnishings had to be both beautiful and stand up to the wear and tear of an active family.

“Within our projects, we develop a hierarchy to focus on the spaces where our clients gather and spend most of their time,” says Amanda. As

Slab doors and drawers on this custom vanity provide a sleek foundation for the hardware, a mix of brass and black metals.

with most, the kitchen is the heart of this Sunapee home. Studio Sage collaborated with Timeless Kitchens to create a beautiful, open space that combines a modern esthetic with lots of warm wood and stateof-the-art appliances in a family-friendly layout. The dated bathrooms were next on the list. A much-needed overhaul brought them into the 21st century. The remainder of the house was updated with fresh paint and new furnishings.

In addition to the natural beauty surrounding the house, Amanda and her team were delighted to discover the client’s wonderful art collection. “Any collection, especially art, can bring magic to an interior. Art is deeply personal, and the family’s collection is an integral part of their story,” she says. In addition, Amanda brought in local artist Jay Aubertin to create two large sculptures for the fireplace. She adds, “Our job was to curate all of these pieces and integrate them into a beautifully renewed space.” And the homeowners? They couldn’t be happier with this artful update. tw

BUILDERS

LLC

TALBOT

603-526-4600 www.talbotbuilders.com

Studio Sage Interiors 10 Lovering Lane New London, NH (603) 526-2121 www.studiosageinteriors.com Timeless Kitchens 11 South Pleasant Street New London, NH (603) 526-7866 www.timelesskitchen.com J.A. Metal Craft LLC 329 Kearsarge Valley Road Wilmot, NH (603) 782-6164 www.jametalcraft.com

Quality Craftsmanship Resource Efficient Construction Original Designs Custom Homes Remodeling & Additions

Visit us at our new office space at: 38 Main Street

New London, NH 03257

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INTERIOR STYLE

TRUE BRILLIANCE T H E L AT E S T T R E N D S F R O M C R E AT I V E LIGHTING DESIGNS

T

he perfect lighting fixture can transform a room.

And just as with other design elements, what’s old is new again—only updated. New gold-type finishes are in, says Brian Horan of Creative Lighting Designs. “Many manufacturers have introduced variations of gold finishes this year. Soft gold, burnished gold, and antique gold are a few that are offered. These have replaced the older antique brass finish and have more brightness, glimmer, and brilliance than antique brass, giving the light fixture more bling.”

Large globes are making a comeback, and the old round white ball has been replaced with upgraded, more elegant globes, many with frames around them in different shapes and materials. “The globe itself is now not just white glass, but clear, smoke, or translucent,” says Brian. “Larger oversized globes can make a nice statement without being too bulky or obtrusive.”

According to Brian, customers are requesting hidden accent lighting. This includes cove lighting placed on top of a beam that can’t be seen, “or a built-in valance around a room creates a helpful lighting effect that enhances and opens up high ceilings, making the room look large and not so one-dimensional. It really opens up the ceiling and accents the architecture of home or building.”

LED lighting is about 90 percent of what Creative Lighting Designs sells now, says Brian. “With the added benefit of very rarely having to change bulbs, energy savings, and the prices continuing to come down, it’s a no-brainer. We always try and go 100 percent LED— green, low cost, and low maintenance.” tw Creative Lighting Designs & Décor 85 Mechanic Street, Suite C2-3 Lebanon, NH (603) 448-2066 creativelightingdesigns.com

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Tech Lighting Sedona Triple Linear Chandelier

Recessed lighting is a wonderful option that can make a room seem bigger and the ceiling seem higher. Henry Sconce by Hubbardton Forge. Photo courtesy of Wade Weissmann Architecture.

Hubbardton Forge Antasia Table Lamp

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INTERIOR STYLE

BY PAMELA BROWN

FLOORS FOR REAL LIFE FIND FLOORING FOR EVERY NEED A N D B U D G E T AT F L O O R C R A F T

F

or 30 years, family-owned and -operated FloorCraft has been offering quality products at everyday low prices with professional flooring experts and local craftsmen providing customers with the perfect flooring for their homes. Carl and Gail Olson opened FloorCraft in the New London Shopping Center and in 1995 built their current location. Their son and daughter-in-law, Ken and Tobyn, purchased the business in 2012.

Is the floor an important interior design feature?

An important aspect of interior design is understanding a client’s lifestyle and creating balance between form and function. Flooring is an essential part of both tying together elements of design and providing a strong foundation for everyday life. Flooring has a unique nostalgic quality about it.

A soft, squishy carpet could be reminiscent of family movie nights where memories are made. A hardwood in the living room could be the perfect place for a toddler to take his or her first steps. The right flooring can be the decision that turns a house into a home.

Trellis vinyl flooring.

What products and services do you offer?

To keep up with trends and the newest technology, we carry a variety of flooring manufacturers in all product categories including carpet, hardwood, vinyl, laminate, and tile. Onsite measuring, in-store design services, and installation are available.

What’s trending in flooring?

Undyed wools and natural hardwood are effortlessly stylish and enhance the sustainability of any home. Neutral colors such as gray, taupe, and beige are always a timeless choice, but we’re seeing new and exciting splashes of color in carpet and tile. Rich, deep colors such as navy blue, emerald green, and even tasteful terracotta tones have been making appearances in backsplash tiles and area rugs. Other trends include improved vinyl technologies with visuals that 100 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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TimberPlus wood flooring.

Parisian Oak Croissant vinyl flooring.

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INTERIOR STYLE rival hardwood and stone; vinyl tiles with integrated grout technology that alleviate maintenance concerns; creative and decorative porcelain tiles that add personality to any space; and wide planks in wood, vinyl, and laminate are in high demand to make spaces feel larger. Cut and loop carpets are a popular choice for anyone who wants to add texture to a space.

Forest Park Natural wood flooring.

How can someone upgrade their floor while staying within a budget?

If hardwood flooring is not in the budget, we carry several lines of wood-look laminate flooring that look identical to the real thing. Natural stone, such as marble or limestone, is beautiful but pricey. We encourage customers to consider porcelain or ceramic alternatives that mimic the look of natural stone without the maintenance or expensive price tag. We offer wool/ synthetic blend carpet so you get the

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2022: Last year of 26% federal tax credit for solar

look of wool at a budget-friendly price.

Can you offer some floor-care tips?

Regular maintenance will increase the longevity of any floor. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines is critical because not only will it keep your floors looking beautiful but it will also ensure the integrity of the material.

What’s the advantage of being a family-owned business?

We’re able to build rapport with each customer and they’re confident in talking to the same person every time they call. We can look at each situation individually and make sure to address any issues personally. That is a huge reason we continue to have repeat customers year after year! tw FloorCraft 231 NH Route 11 Wilmot, NH (603) 526-2600 floorcraftnh.com

Impact. Impact. Impact. For years you’ve thought about wanting to do your part and ‘clean up your footprint’, but what meaningful impact could you really have? Well, the sun makes it simple, really. And it costs less than paying your electric bill. That’s real impact.

Schedule a free assessment (802) 649-3700 info@solaflect.com

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INTERIOR STYLE

BY PAMELA BROWN

GO FOR TIMELESS BEAUTY BIRON’S FLOORING HAS YOU COVERED

Palace Plank, Mannington laminate.

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iron’s Flooring features a large showroom showcasing the latest styles in flooring, from hardwood, vinyl, and linoleum to tile, carpet, and area rugs. Since 1981, the full-service, family-owned and -operated business has provided outstanding customer service and quality installation for residential and commercial customers in New Hampshire’s Upper Valley, Lake Sunapee Region, and beyond. Some of its services include transforming a carpet remnant into an area rug or stair runner; special tile installation, such as custom showers, hearths, and backsplashes; free in-home measuring; and shop at home.

Tile and laminate.

Clay tile.

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The store prides itself on pleasant, no-pressure consultations with design experts who ensure customers find the right product to fit their lifestyle. “It’s nice for the designers to get a feel for your style so everything can come together.

Our in-house, certified installers follow through on the promises the designers make,” says Chelsey Dolan, sales associate. “Flooring can make a difference in your space and bring it all together. I tell people to choose something timeless instead of trendy so it matches the wall paint, furniture, and décor over the years. Flooring is not something you’re changing often, so it’s important to select something you’re going to love in five years.” Waterproof, scratchresistant, floating vinyl is popular with homeowners. Easy to clean and not easily damaged, it’s ideal for homes with pets, kids, and daily traffic. Adding an area rug adds style and warmth.

Biron’s keeps customers involved in the selection process. “We ask them to bring in items from the room to coordinate all the components before sending them home with flooring samples so they can look at all the components together,” says Chelsey. “When you walk into a space, you want to have one focal point, whether it be one of the components you brought in to match your flooring or the flooring itself. Our designers are here to help you make the right choice. We want you to walk away feeling happy and confident with the choices made for your new space.” tw Biron’s Flooring 1011 John Stark Highway Newport, NH (603) 543-0329 bironsflooring.com

highmb.com

(603) 448-5626

Gorgeous Bathrooms in Wood, Tile and Glass Detailed Restorations, Renovations and Additions

160 Mechanic Street, Lebanon, NH WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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REAL ESTATE BY EVAN PIERCE & LEAH MCLAUGHRY

Navigating the Changing Market PIERCE MCLAUGHRY GROUP

Evan Pierce REALTOR®, PSA Pierce McLaughry Group

Leah McLaughry REALTOR®, Broker VT/NH Pierce McLaughry Group

The world of real estate has changed dramatically in the last two years. Is this the new normal?

Yes. The pandemic forced us all to think about new ways to work and live, and many of those changes applied to real estate as well. We meet with clients via Zoom calls, we do FaceTime showings, and we’ve enacted policies and procedures for safety, many of which will remain post-pandemic. Time is valuable to our clients, so it has been important to streamline our processes and make sure our clients have every advantage we can give them.

What’s been the hardest thing to deal with over the last two years?

Whether we are talking about listings we represent or our clients trying to purchase a home, we have developed empathy for buyers. We have met so many wonderful people who just want to purchase a home in our community and put down roots here. Many of them have bid on multiple properties and have still not been able to acquire one. For some, just keeping their spirits up in this environment has been the biggest thing.

In an area that is very competitive for real estate agents, how have you managed to be so successful?

We strive to develop a deep understanding of their objectives, time frames, and qualifications. We connect them with lenders and other professionals, so that in every situation our clients feel like they have a great team working together to help them. We also have great support from Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty. Our marketing team, transaction coordinator, and support staff all work exceptionally hard to not only give us the tools that we need but they can also take certain tasks off of our plates so we can really focus on what is most important: the clients. tw

When we think about the price appreciation since the start of the pandemic, it’s pretty dramatic. Can it continue?

Not indefinitely! But the market forces that started in 2020 are still in place in 2022: low

17.5 Lebanon Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-6070 fourseasonssir.com 106 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

inventory, high buyer demand. The inventory piece will eventually sort itself out and the market will come back into balance. However, we expect buyer demand to remain very strong.

Our region offers an amazing lifestyle, good jobs, excellent schools, world-class health care, and access to cultural events and other activities. We think that one of the reasons is partly because of the fact that our region has been undervalued in the past.

541 & 523 Ely Road, Thetford, Vermont.

2022

Don’t just get your home on the market.

Get it the attention it deserves.

588 NH ROUTE 10 | ORFORD, NH

Nothing compares.

FOURSEASONSSIR.COM

The Upper Valley housing market is still hot!

With limited inventory, now is a great time to consider selling your home.

Connect with our team and feel confident about listing your home with us today!

Hanover, New Hampshire: 603.643.6070 Fairlee, Vermont: 802.333.4701 23 Offices throughout Vermont, New Hampshire & New York.

|

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. |

FourSeasonsSIR.com

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INTERIOR STYLE

BY DEB THOMPSON

LIVE IN COLOR T R UST THE PROS AT JEFF WILM OT PA IN TI N G & WALLPAPERING TO T R AN SFO RM YOUR HOME

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s residents of the Upper Valley have spent more time at home over the last couple of years, they have taken steps to make their surroundings more soothing and comfortable, to create havens where their families can escape the chaos and decompress and relax.

One of the easiest ways to refresh the appearance and mood of your home is to change paint colors.

According to Jeff Wilmot, who has been serving customers in the area for more than 40 years, “Clients are looking for comforting colors to surround them,” Jeff says. “We’re still doing some grays and other neutral tones. More people are looking for a complete repaint of the entire home, sometimes using the same color throughout. It creates a clean, uniform look,” he explains. Jeff and his crew are seeing more large-scale projects, what he describes as “a huge upswing,” a trend he attributes to so many people moving into the area to escape large cities during the pandemic.

Customers are still wanting to update their kitchens by painting the cabinets, Jeff says. Often the island or uppers and lowers are different colors to create interest. “I painted kitchen cabinets a shade of aqua for a client who wanted to create a warm, beachy feel.

It totally transformed the space, and they love it.”

Requests for wallpaper—especially in powder rooms and bedrooms—are increasing too. Choices Jeff has installed lately range from plain textured ones to bolder designs for accent walls, such as a dark green paper with a floral pattern. One of Jeff’s recent favorites is a home bar area done with tan grass cloth with a black octagon pattern installed on the ceiling, which “looks cool with the recessed lighting and the copper-topped bar.” tw Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering, Inc. 23 Lyon Road South Royalton, VT (802) 763-2055 jeffwilmot.com

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260 Mechanic Street, Lebanon, NH 603.448.4940 | 800.991.8453

Pierce McLaughry Group

588 NH Route 10 | Orford, NH | MLS# 4873440

Unparalleled Service | Efficient Process | Local & Global Exposure | Exceptional Real Estate Advisors

Evan Pierce | REALTOR® | evan.pierce@fourseasonssir.com | epiercerealtor.com | C: 201.401.4934 Leah McLaughry | REALTOR®, Broker VT/NH | leah.mclaughry@fourseasonssir.com | leahmclaughry.com | C: 603.359.8622

17 1/2 Lebanon Street | Hanover, New Hampshire | O: 603.643.6070 | FourSeasonsSIR.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

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INTERIOR STYLE

BY TAREAH GRAY

DECORATING TRENDS TAKE A TURN TOWARD RETRO M O D E R N A D VA N C E M E N T S B R I N G Q U A L I T Y T O H O M E U P G R A D E S

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nce dubbed unassuming, the color white is making a resurgence on walls, window treatments have a wow factor with their energy savings, and wallpaper has not yet gone the way of the dodo. As homeowners gear up for spring renovations, Lebanon Paint & Decorating in West Lebanon is fully embracing 2022’s home-decorating trends. Renovators can gain inspiration from the store’s website, which includes an ideas page, a paint calculator, and a Color Trends 2022 Palette, and store manager John Rescigno is a solid resource as well.

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Benjamin Moore’s Aura Bath and Spa paint is a good choice for highhumidity areas and is mildew resistant.

Aura eggshell finish is durable, delivering walls you can wash.

In-Demand Colors “Warm grays are still popular, but whites are making a comeback,” says John. “Some popular colors people are looking for include Revere Pewter, Chantilly Lace, White Dove, and Linen White. Our color of the year is October Mist, which is a green with a gray hue to it. Dark blues and teal greens are the choice for kitchen cabinets and islands.”

John says decorators are asking for a quality paint with good coverage, durability, and color retention. While the store can custom match colors for their customers, Benjamin Moore has made advancements in their tinting system. Their Aura paint line has color-lock technology that helps color last long and has a smooth finish. “Our Advance paint is a great choice for cabinets, furniture, and trim,” he says. “It has excellent leveling abilities, which means it will leave you a super-smooth finish, and once fully cured, it is extremely durable.”

Wallpaper Withstands the Test of Time “Wallpaper has its highs and lows but never disappears,” says store employee Maria Voege. “It is very popular right now, and we love it! We are seeing wallpaper in bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and even in chicken coops. There are endless possibilities.”

Maria says decorators have been looking for a wide range of wallpaper: updated traditional patterns, Craftsman-style prints, fun colors and textures, retro prints, and grass cloth. Most of the wallpaper is special-order.

Window treatment advancements include a pressure-fit window shade, and customers’ requests are predominantly insulating honeycomb shades these days, says Maria. “They are energy smart and low profile, often blending in with the window trim. Soft, natural, woven woods and fabric Roman shades are popular for a more organic feeling.” tw

FAMILY OWNED FOR TWO

GENERATIONS We’re proud to be a family owned local business. We’re dedicated to our community and our loyal customers.

Stop into the showroom to browse our extensive product selection today!

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

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INSURANCE BY KAREN ANDRUS

Stay in Touch COLBY INSURANCE GROUP PROVIDES DIGITAL OPTIONS FOR INSURANCE ACCESS

Brett Barselle President

What does it mean to be local and digital?

As a local independent agent, we pride ourselves on our relationships with our customers, our community, and our regional insurance carriers. Building and fostering these relationships is the best way to serve our customers. We also know that many of our customers are accustomed to having online access to their accounts and other digital tools at their fingertips. We’ve invested in these tools to give customers the best of both worlds.

What does it mean to be a digital insurance agency?

We do not consider ourselves a digital agency. We like to call ourselves a digitally enabled agency offering customers the type of tools they are using in other areas of their lives. Having access to their account and policies helps customers stay on top of their insurance needs. Having the tools to help customers engage more easily with their insurance and our agency is a win for everyone.

What tools do you offer your customers to help them manage their insurance?

We think the most important tool we offer is the agency-customer relationship. We

276 Newport Road Suite 211 New London, NH (603) 526-2451 colby-group.com 112 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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want to ensure our customers know that we are here to help guide and advise them on their insurance. Beyond that, the digital tools enhance the experience and connectivity customers have with our agency and their account. We offer digital payment options, electronic document delivery, signatures, a customer-facing self-service portal called Colby CSR24, and multiple modes of communication, including email and text messaging.

What plans do you have for the future?

We are constantly pushing the limits of what we can offer our customers, continually learning and looking for ways to improve. The more customers can interact with our agency, whether it’s over the phone, in person, online, or through our mobile app, the more they will understand their insurance and the better off they will be.

We want our customers to know that local agents back the tools and technology we offer with years of insurance expertise.

Plus, our agents are local with ties to the communities we serve. They take their job of providing financial security to local individuals, families, and businesses very seriously. We’re proud of and grateful for our amazing staff. tw

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INTERIOR STYLE

BY KATHERINE P. COX

With its pullover attached back, flowing arm curve, and subtly curved back and front, Smith Brothers of Berne creates an elegant sofa that can be the center of your living room without taking over the space.

FURNISH YOUR MULTIUSE SPACE F I N D Q U A L I T Y A N D S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y AT B R O W N F U R N I T U R E

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ational trends in furniture design and style are making their way to the Upper Valley, says Bradley Nelson, owner of Brown Furniture in West Lebanon. “A softer, more curved design style is showing up in a lot of people’s design choices, leading to a more mid-century look.

Complementing that is a touch of resurgence in 1970s or even vintage styles and color choices,” he says. But it’s modern-day lifestyles that are changing how homeowners look at their spaces. “Single-use spaces seem to be a thing of the past,” he says, as rooms transform into not just living areas, but offices and even game rooms.

“This is driving the move from oversized, room-dominating pieces to smaller sofas, chairs, and desks that can work well in one space together.”

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The Luonto Monika sleeper sofa. Finland’s Luonto Furniture maintains their own forests of spruce and birch to build the frames of their sofas and sleepers.

The wood byproduct is used to heat all three of their factories, local schools, and a local town.

With that in mind, customers are looking for quality furniture that will last and may mix and match antique pieces with mid-century sofas and occasional tables, Brad says. They also have an eye toward sustainability, “and are looking for products that have some degree of recycled, organic, or sustainable materials in their furniture.”

When it comes to fabrics and colors, Brad says, “natural, softer earth tones, browns, stone grays, soft greens, and off-whites appear to be trending.

Fabrics and finishes with texture are also popular.”

One design element on the decline, he says: bold accent pieces and pillows. tw Brown Furniture 14 Interchange Drive West Lebanon, NH (603) 298-5755 brownfurniture.com

17 Granite Place Enfield, NH 03748 • 603-632-9800 www.shakerhillgranite.com

Kitchen and Bath Design Center Offering WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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INTERIOR STYLE

BY KATHERINE P. COX

DOUBLE-DUTY PIECES MAXIMIZE LIVING SPACE F I N D S T Y L E A N D V E R S AT I L I T Y AT LOVE’S BEDDING & FURNITURE

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ultifunctioning pieces are what customers are looking for, and “this spans every product category,” says Faye Harrington of Love’s Bedding & Furniture in Claremont. Furniture with a dual purpose is huge, she says. “For home offices, desks that can be lifted into a standing desk have been very popular. Power reclining sectionals with USB ports to charge devices, lumbar support, and adjustable headrests are always high in demand. Beds with storage drawers underneath, bunk beds with storage stairs, and even cabinet Murphy beds are all ways furniture can serve more than one purpose and maximize your living space.”

Also popular is nature-inspired furniture, she says. “Bringing the outdoors inside could mean choosing a dining table with a live edge or a sofa in an earth-tone color.

Choosing rustic furniture made from hand-carved logs not only brings the outdoors in but truly gives you a one-of-a-kind piece.” Angel Stone of Love’s suggests, “adding

Flexsteel Lift Desk The practical lift surface allows you to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day.

Available in two finishes.

This Murphy cabinet can transform into a queen bed in less than a minute! From Night and Day, it also includes folding trays and dual power/USB built in. Other colors are available.

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Flexsteel Living Room Sofa

Live-Edge Elm Table with Resin Contemporary meets rustic. This Amish-made table is one of a kind!

an eclectic, one-of-a-kind piece to your home will be a conversation starter. Like our bar table made from a scooter, for instance.”

She says customers this year are loving a variety of styles, such as farmhouse, primitive, rustic, and anything transitional. When it comes to fabrics, she says, “anything leather is popular right now.

Our customers also want fabrics that are durable and easy to clean, like Sunbrella or Revolution fabrics.”

Mixing those styles is “more than okay,” Faye says. “We do it regularly within our store. Mixing an eclectic bench with a traditional dining table is a fun way to give your space a unique feel. Placing a rustic wine barrel coffee table in front of a giant slipcover sofa is another example of making two very different pieces cohesive.”tw Love’s Bedding & Furniture 185 Washington Street Claremont, NH (603) 821-9350 lovesbeddingandfurniture.com

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BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

BY DIAN PARKER PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOEWEN WINDOWS

ROOMS WITH A VIEW LOEWEN WINDOW CENTER CAN BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE

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amilies from big cities and from as far away as California are moving to the Northeast, either to buy land and build a home or to renovate an existing home into their own design. Chad LaCasse, owner of Loewen Window Center in White River Junction, says that a surge of homeowners seeking to relocate has kept his company busy.

Loewen promotes “Beauty through simplicity,” which, according to Chad, is the trend now. “Customers are seeking a more European-style décor. Modern, clean, with simple lines—making for a more industrial look—seems to be what people are looking for in their homes these days. Frames around windows are narrow without decorations or grills. And people want glass,” Chad says.

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Above: Efficiency meets design in a wall of windows, framing the beauty of nature as a living portrait. University Terrace/RKB Construction/ Studio Trejo Photography.

Opposite top: Triple-pane glass provides form and function, offering added efficiency and interior UV protection. University Terrace/ RKB Construction/ Studio Trejo Photography.

Bottom: The clean and simple lines blend seamlessly with traditional and modern designs.

Narofsky Architecture/ Phillip Ennis Photography.

Deck houses are popular and call for a lot of glass. These houses have a single sloped roof that typically sits over the edge of a deck, allowing the snow and rain to slide off. Loewen installs inside/outside glass, either double or triple paned.

“These windows are energy efficient and create more warmth in the winter and cooler temps in the summer.” Panels of glass can either fold up, down, or horizontally into the wall, like a pocket door. Chad has made them 24 feet wide. “The window looks like a door, and you can fold it out of the way,” he says.

“That’s a hard job, but we make it work.” These high-end projects are what Loewen specializes in, working with prominent architects and homeowners.

Chad has been in the building supply business for 30 years.

Last year he bought Loewen Window Center and now has four employees. They pride themselves on the durability of their products, the high efficiency and comfort factor, and the low maintenance they require.

Loewen Window Center’s motto is “We’ll take care of it.”

This translates to whatever the job, the customer doesn’t have to worry. Whether it be a wall of windows spanning the first and second floors of a house or folding glass panels, the crew knows how to make your dreams come true. Chad insists that they can do it all. “With so many moving parts to working with glass, we’ll take care of it with white-glove service.” tw Loewen Window Center of Vermont & New Hampshire 52 Bridge Street White River Junction, VT (802) 295-6555 www.loewenvtnh.com

Enrich your view with Loewen energy-efficient windows and doors—handcrafted, authentic, and enduring.

WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

BY JACKIE TURUR PHOTOS COURTESY OF WINDOWS & DOORS BY BROWNELL

WELL-BEING TRENDS IN THE HOME DESIGN FOR HEALTHY LIVING FROM WINDOWS & DOORS

BY BROWNELL

Floor to ceiling Marvin Modern windows and doors and the use of indoor gardening bring the outside in.

Opposite top: The Marvin Skycove creates a space for light, comfort, and connection to the outdoors through a fully constructed, projected-glass box structure.

Below: Homes today are maximizing natural light throughout the home using a combination windows, doors, and skylights.

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here’s no such thing as the average household. Now more than ever, homeowners are designing homes and redesigning spaces that support long-term goals and overall well-being. These trends are emerging in several ways.

Focusing on feeling content in our homes has never been more pronounced. An impressive 96 percent of homeowners say it’s important to feel happy in their homes and that their homes enable them to feel comfortable and relaxed, according to a survey conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of Marvin. This sheds light on another important focus at the forefront: well-being. Creative solutions are emerging where the home and well-being converge in everything from lifestyle to home design to the structure of our living environments.

Well-being manifests itself in many ways within the home, from thoughtfully designed spaces for accessibility to residences meant to be forever homes for multiple generations. The following examples highlight

well-being trends being embraced by homeowners to support well-being, whatever that means for them.

Nature in Design Designs continue to be rooted in nature as people seek to bring the outside in through biophilia and the artful inclusion of nature elements in indoor spaces. This includes the additions of greenery, natural materials like stone and wood, and nature-inspired shapes, patterns, and symmetry.

Spaces Designed for Self-Care Homes are being designed (or redesigned) to inspire healthy living, a happy outlook, and a respite from the chaos of life. Physical, mental, and social wellbeing take a front seat and are realized in creative ways, from a kitchen engineered to inspire healthy eating and a no-excuses fitness space to a place to escape for a few moments of relaxation.

Increased Light Not only does light make us feel better but light exposure also plays an important role in a healthy sleep/ wake cycle and how daylight affects our inherent circadian rhythms: physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a daily cycle.

There are countless ways that well-being can be interpreted, though patterns emerging across homes are attention to ample light, fresh air, and inspiring views of nature. With more time spent in the home than ever before, we can’t wait to see how well-being continues to manifest in the home in creative ways. tw Article adapted by Windows & Doors By Brownell from marvin.com blog post “Well-Being Trends in the Home.”

Windows & Doors By Brownell PowerHouse Mall 800 Marshall Avenue 8 Glen Road Williston, VT West Lebanon, NH (802) 862-4800 (603) 298-5555 wdbrownell.com

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TRENDS FOR TODAY

BY TAREAH GRAY PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE GRANITE GROUP

BEAUTIFUL INNOVATIONS T H E G R A N I T E G R O U P ’ S U LT I M AT E B AT H S T O R E C A N H E L P C U S T O M I Z E Y O U R K I T C H E N A N D B AT H R O O M

Kohler Whitehaven farmhouse sink with Hayridge design and Kohler Simplice matte black faucet.

Inset: Kohler Artifacts touchless faucet.

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Full Kohler boutique bathroom with Anthem digital control and the Statement Series round ceiling-mount rain head and multifunction showerhead with multifunction hand shower on a bar.

Inset: Kohler Anthem digital shower control.

Spray settings and temperatures can be personalized to someone’s desires with a simple voice command.

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he Granite Group has faithfully kept up with 50 years of faucet facelifts, sleeker showerheads, and bathroom boosts. Kitchens have been kicked up a notch or two over the last half a century too, and the company has always kept pace.

Along with nearly 50 wholesale locations throughout New England, The Granite Group also operates 15 retail showrooms under The Ultimate Bath Store name, offering an expertly trained staff and an extensive array of decorative plumbing fixtures and accessories. Both sides of the business need to constantly evolve with the new plumbing, heating, and water technology that comes along for new construction and remodels, both private and commercial. “I’m excited to see what happens in 10 years,” says Dan Farren, senior sales associate of the Ultimate Bath Store in South Burlington, Vermont. “The trend of technology is marrying your house environment to your plumbing fixtures.”

Customized and Commanded Touch-free faucets are more common now in both residential and commercial kitchens and bathrooms. There’s no need for someone with raw chicken on her hands to touch a handle at the sink. A simple wave will now turn on a WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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TRENDS FOR TODAY Right: Kohler dual shower with DTV prompt controller, body jets, dual hand shower, rain shower, and showerhead walls.

Below: Bain Ultra Meridian air-jet tub.

faucet. “This has gained more traction during the COVID era. You can wash your hands before even having to touch anything,” says Dan. Faucet temperatures can also be controlled by technology such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and apps provided by the companies who make faucets and showerheads. Spray settings and temperatures can be personalized to someone’s desires with a simple voice command. “It provides a seamless experience between all facets in your life,” says Dan. A new shower trend is digital shower valves that can be controlled from a smartphone. Showerheads can have preset temperatures with an eco-conscious flow. “People are finding a happy medium between low and high spray,” says Dan. “Technology can marry that water-conscious vibe with functionality and reflect the need of new code requirements.”

Matte black and gold are popular finishes for new and remodeled showers, says Dan, but it varies by region. “In Vermont, we still see the tried-and-true traditional look, and in more urban settings, the more contemporary lines are popular.”

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Right: Kohler Anthem thermostatic valve and column kit with multifunction rain head and hand shower in polished chrome.

Below: Full Kohler bathroom with Kohler Konnect, Purist shower fixtures, and a steam generator.

Tubs, Toilets, and Tile Intelligent isn’t usually a word associated with toilets, but that’s the direction they’re headed. “I envision in 20 years, the majority of plumbing appliances will have the option, or be quite common, to have digital connections,” says Dan. As for today’s style, the trend is a skirted toilet that is easier to install with fewer cracks and crevices to clean.

Free-standing tubs are still popular in bathrooms these days, giving the space a more complete and open look than the built-in tubs do. And air jets are replacing water-jet whirlpools in bathrooms. While just as therapeutic and relaxing with the full-body whirlpool experience, the air-bubble system is easier to clean and retains fewer bacteria.

While tile is still favored for shower walls, homeowners are able to do less grout cleaning by using a new, engineered stone that is the full size of the shower wall. Apron-front and farmhouse are still popular kitchen sink styles with cast iron, stainless steel, and composite materials, which allow for color variations, leading the pack. They also allow a larger basin than undermount sinks with both traditional and modern aesthetics prevailing. “It’s pretty incredible to have all of these customizable things for a home,” says Dan. tw The Granite Group www.thegranitegroup.com Ultimate Bath Store www.ultimatebathstore.com

Escape to the soothing comfort of your own private steam bath.

Experience the purifying benefits of steam, including respiratory relief and cleansing the body of toxins and impurities.

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TRENDS FOR TODAY

BY DIAN PARKER

ELEGANT UPGRADES THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME A M E R I C A N P L AT E G L A S S O F F E R S C U S T O M P R O D U C T S AND IMPECCABLE SERVICE

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or the last couple of years, many of us have been working from home.

There has been a greater need to update our residences, and Doug and Mindy Scott, owners of American Plate Glass of Claremont, New Hampshire, have been busy. Offering custom-made glass products coupled with impeccable service, American Plate Glass covers all your glass needs—except for windshields (but they do fabricate flat glass for antique cars).

Custom-made showers have been especially popular. In the past, shower doors were made with thin glass, and the metal frames looked cheap. American Plate Glass uses three-eights- to half-inch-thick glass sheets/panels that are frameless. Since the iron content of glass causes it to turn green over time, the customer can choose regular glass or low-iron glass, which is extremely clear. The shower glass can be etched with a rainwater pattern or your initials—whatever you desire. Shower hardware is made to match most standard bathroom fixture finishes. They even have the “phone booth style” (Doug’s term), a frameless shower with black mullions that resembles old-style multipaned windows. All designs are printed and then baked into the glass. Custom color designs are also available.

The company also replaces old windows and can restore historical windows with new glass that looks like old, rippled glass.

They are a dealer for National Vinyl, a New England company that offers a limited lifetime warranty. They also supply some of the 126 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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more commonly known windows like Harvey, Andersen, and Marvin. For both windows and shower glass, there is little maintenance required. Shower doors use rubber gaskets and seals, which over time American Plate Glass will replace.

The company also supplies aluminum storefronts for commercial projects.

The framework, siding, and doors are all made of aluminum, which insulates and is energy efficient. During the early stages of the pandemic, Mindy, Doug’s wife and partner in the company, was especially busy supplying plexiglass COVID shields for schools and banks in the area.

Mirrors are also custom made, whether to fit into an existing frame, cut around light switches and sconces, or for covering an entire wall. American Plate Glass also cuts triangular or rectangular glass for display cases. The company cuts and installs glass for cabinet shops as well as big wall mirrors for dance studios or gym walls.

Opposite: Frameless in-line shower door with glass-to-glass hinges and clamps uses minimal hardware for a clean appearance.

Above: Filling an available space with glass shows off the tile work and gives the illusion of a larger space.

Doug has been working at American Plate Glass since 2007 and bought the business in 2014. He and Mindy also bought Woodstock GlassWorks to serve the Woodstock and Killington areas. The company now has five employees, plus a greeter dog named Everest. “I employ a small, qualified crew, and I vowed never to lay anyone off during the slower seasons. And I haven’t,” says Doug. “We are all about customer service, from beginning to end. When we give an estimate, we stick as close to that as we can. I like for everyone to be happy.” tw American Plate Glass 150 Pleasant Street Claremont, NH (603) 542-7787 americanplateglass.com WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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The waterfall feature on this Andover, Massachusetts, Soake Pool provides gentle sound and beauty as well as a destination for dining against the beautiful woodland backdrop. Photo by Murphy Foto Imagery.

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BY PAMELA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SOAKE POOLS

LUXURY

IN YOUR OWN

BACKYARD SOAKE POOLS CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN

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iving life with a plunge pool in your backyard is like paradise on earth. “Soake Pools are deep, still bodies of silky-smooth water. The experience is different than that of traditional backyard

pools because the setting is more intimate—the smaller size is great for conversation, swimming in place, and enjoying a peaceful evening looking at the stars,” says Karen Larson, co-owner of Soake Pools with her husband Brian.

“Because they’re not noisy, like a hot tub, they provide a Zen-like experience much like a traditional Roman bath.” As an added bonus, plunge pools offer hot and cold plunging along with therapeutic benefits, including hydrotherapy, muscle recovery, stress reduction, and a place for low-impact aerobic exercise.

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Top left: This Coastal Maine pool is decorated in a natural stone exterior that coordinates with the custom stone bar and patio. Native plants soften the hardscape.

Photo by Murphy Foto Imagery.

Above: This earthy Soake Pool is the focal point of this elegant, rustic backyard. The two-sided fireplace was built to match the pool exterior. Photo by Murphy Foto Imagery.

“The pool can be installed and ready to use in just days, depending on how the subcontractors are lined up.

They are not maintenance-free, but the care is easy and simple,” says Karen.

CUSTOMIZABLE BEAUTY The pandemic prompted people to find ways to receive more enjoyment from their homes. “We saw a strong trend of homeowners, who may have been considering backyard improvements for years, finally investing since they were going to be home for the foreseeable future,” says Karen, noting the appeal of a plunge pool due to their sleek design with nature-inspired details. The revolutionary, spacesaving pools unite the features of a pool and hot tub for year-round use, even in harsh New England weather, and are customizable to a point, prebuilt, and ready to install.

“We own our own forms, so we have set sizes and bench configurations, but the tile choices are varied and abundant.

The pool can be installed and ready to use in just days, depending on how the subcontractors are lined up. They are not maintenance-free, but the care is easy and simple,”

Karen explains. The pools are made in New England using state-of-the-art materials. “Our New England customers love that they are made here right in New England. Our customer support team is based here too, which is great for New Englanders. For those outside of the area, we provide the same amazing support over the phone and Zoom.”

NOT YOUR AVERAGE PLUNGE POOLS Opened in 2015, Soake Pools was a very entrepreneurial, hands-on startup venture. They are the original precast plunge pool in the United States. “Brian and I did everything ourselves, from sales and marketing to deliveries.

We got into the business because the very product that we wanted did not exist,” says Karen. The Larsons went on to pioneer the plunge pool market in New England, developing their own manufacturing process to meet the

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Above: This Cape Cod plunge pool transformed the customer’s backyard from one that was rarely used into an outdoor space that is used daily for swimming or just hanging out poolside by the gas fireplace.

Right: Fire and water create visual destinations for the homeowners at this northern Massachusetts backyard. The use of natural stone, sourced from the customer’s own woods, provides a natural surround for the Soake Pool.

Soake Pools Pembroke, NH (603) 749-0665 soakepools.com

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rigors of a tough New England climate. “We included things like foam insulation for efficiency right from the start. This is different than traditional large pools. Our pools are elegantly crafted pools that are hand-tiled in a controlled environment and delivered to backyards ready to install and for finish work.

We stand out because every surface of the interior of our pools is fully tiled with beautiful, earthy, large-format tiles or luscious mosaics.”

Karen points out that they simplified the choices to provide an elegant solution to any and all design challenges. She also notes other precast companies new to the market use less expensive and different looking finishes.

She also highlighted that plunge pools offer a significant cost savings over a traditional gunite pool. “That being said, many of our customers who have larger budgets have a lot of fun designing other fun surrounding features with that cost savings, like firepits and outdoor kitchens.”

SERVICE AND SUPPORT EVERY STEP OF THE WAY Customers are given hands-on attention.

“We’re out there meeting them and want them to feel valued and heard. We really listen to their project goals so we can help achieve those goals. It sounds clichéd, but something as simple as asking how they anticipate using their pool can help guide the pool location,” says Karen. “Our guiding goals have always been for the customer experience to be amazing and different than that of previous pool industry experiences. We set out to provide honest, transparent pricing along with highenergy customer support.” Karen shares that they laugh a lot as a team. “Our staff is super fun, energetic, smart, and everyone is crosstrained on all areas and topics.”

The Larsons view every sale as a long-term relationship. “We stay in touch with customers long after the pool is started up. We love it when they send us photos of them enjoying their pool. It’s also important to note that we love what we do! We don’t want to be the biggest concrete plunge pool manufacturer out there, but rather the highest quality one with a product delivered by the most wonderful team.” tw WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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This page, clockwise from right: A 36' x 84' High Country horse barn. An 8' x 10' greenhouse.

A White River shed with a full loft measures 12' x 18'.

Opposite: A 12'x 12' Timberline pavillion.

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OUTDOOR SPACES

BY JENNY SINCLAIR PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CARRIAGE SHED

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS— AND YOUR SPACE THE CARRIAGE SHED HAS THE BUILDING YOU NEED

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ver the last few years, we have seen a huge demand for any and all buildings. From garages, barns, and chicken coops to gazebos, certified homes, pavilions, and arenas—you name it, people want it! We have seen masses of people moving since the start of COVID and with it they have needs to be filled. Our trend for this year is that everything and anything is in demand. If you are in need of any kind of building, place your order sooner rather than later.

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OUTDOOR SPACES

Turn empty wall space into a focal point with a

MENDOTA GAS FIREPLACE

All of our structures are Amish made with number-one grade materials. They are built to last and can withstand the snow and wind loads in your area. Our larger structures can be delivered anywhere in the continental United States, and our smaller sheds are delivered mostly in the New England area. They can be customized to fit all your needs. We also have a large assortment of buildings on our lot that can be bought as they are and delivered fully assembled to your prepared site.

If you are unsure of what you are looking for, we love to work with our customers to design what they dream. From pool houses to two-story garages, greenhouses, woodsheds—any style building you need, we can have it built for you.

We are a small family-owned business and we have been here for 18 years. Time flies when you are having fun! Be sure to reach out if you have any questions. The name of the game this year is to place your order early! tw The Carriage Shed 1195 VA Cutoff Road White River Junction, VT (800) 441-6057 carriageshed.com

HOME COMFORT WAREHOUSE 54 Bridge Street • White River Junction, VT • 802-295-8778 WWW.HOMECOMFORTWAREHOUSE.COM Open M–F 9 to 5 • Sat 10 to 4 136 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •

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A 24' x 26' 6 pitch garage has high walls and a 10-foot lean-to.

GOING GREEN

BY DIAN PARKER PHOTOS COURTESY OF SAME SUN OF VERMONT

IT’S TIME TO GO SOLAR SAME SUN OF VERMONT EMPOWERS HOMEOWNERS TO CREATE THEIR OWN ENERGY

T

From top: Happy homeowners (and poodle) in front of their ground-mounted bifacial array.

A typical rooftop solar array. A garage roofmounted solar array provides power for the home plus an EV car charger with a Chevy Bolt EV in the foreground.

here are a number of reasons to go solar for your home or business. If you are interested in saving money, want to exchange dependency on fossil fuels for clean, renewable energy, and be more independent from a fluctuating market, you might consider changing over your home or business to solar power. Same Sun of Vermont offers 11 years of experience for just that.

Marlene and Philip Allen started the business with one employee and now have a team of 17. Along with their storefront office in Rutland, they offer on-site consultations, full-service crews for installations, and 25-year warranties for their products.

Solar panels can be installed on the roof or in the yard, depending on solar access. Same Sun will schedule a visit to measure different possible locations, predicting how many kilowatt hours will be received from the sun. South or west facing is best, with enough space for 16 to 30 solar panels. If the outdoor space is big enough, a rack will be installed holding a number of panels that are typically three feet wide and five to six feet tall.

These larger panels are bifacial, which means they not only receive power from the sun above but also from light reflecting up from the ground. Adding white stones below the panels also reflects more light. An on-site visit to assess your property for solar power is $150, which will be deducted if you chose to go solar with Same Sun or refunded if you go with another company.

Your grid-tied solar power system will interconnect with your current electrical company through a meter called a grid tide. If you end up generating extra electricity, the excess is recorded as credit on your electric bill. This can mean that instead of spending $100 a month on electricity, you may only pay $20 to $30.

Same Sun designs solar systems that will cover all the requirements of a home or business, including electronic equipment, even electric cars. The cost for a single home solar array will run between $20,000 to $30,000. The good news is that federal tax credits cover 26 percent of the cost. If the array costs $25,000, you will receive $6,500.

Besides keeping the panels clear of heavy snow, there is little further maintenance with the system. Rain tends to keep the panels clean in the Northeast.

“After our customers have been fully equipped with our product, my husband and I always follow up with a personal visit to the site,” says Marlene. “We want to make sure everything is running properly and the customer is satisfied, and we answer any remaining questions.

We also have repeat customers that are looking to expand their solar electric power, which we can do. With solar power, you can do the right thing for the environment and save money.” tw Same Sun of Vermont 141 West Street Rutland, VT (802) 775-7900 samesunvt.com WWW.GREATERUPPERVALLEY.COM •

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OUTDOOR SPACES

BY TAREAH GRAY PHOTOS COURTESY OF MB PRO LANDSCAPE DESIGN

MODERN COMFORT MEETS NATURAL BEAUTY MB P RO LA NDSCA P E DES I G N B RI NG S THE PA RTY TO Y OUR B A C K YA R D

Right: The stone veneer chimney and fireplace tie into the natural on-site stone walls. Naturalized plantings add curb appeal while creating a healthy ecosystem for the native wildlife.

A permeable paver patio keeps water on-site.

Below: Quarry stone retaining walls with natural granite steps tie into the stone veneer accents on the house and chimney.

A permeable driveway and patios keep water on-site. Day and night low-voltage lighting creates a soft and subtle landscape, and a Bluetoothcontrolled adjustable outdoor gas firepit adds ambience.

P

eople have been asking MB Pro Landscape Design for fun, safe, and healthy outdoor spaces to gather, and the company has been delivering. “We are always trying to stay up to date with the newest trends, materials, installation practices, and certifications to help create perfect outdoor rooms for customers,” says owner Michael Burns. “Whether it’s for a family that likes to entertain or for people who like their privacy—in all seasons and weather—technology in the landscape field has been growing with the demand, as is a need for modern comfort while keeping the landscape looking and feeling like it coexists with the natural surroundings.”

Mike and his seven employees have been busy creating outdoor rooms for entertaining, dining, and socializing where people can hang out year-round.

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EXPAND your OUTDOOR LIVING CREATE A RETREAT WITH MB PRO LANDSCAPE DESIGN

An artistic permeable paver driveway and walkways transition from all structures on property.

and water features are always in demand, outdoor kitchen areas and after-dinner cocktail and family areas have gained popularity as people enjoy having an extension of their main house.

Outdoor living spaces around water are a big draw these days as well. Extending the living area from indoors to an outdoor pool and hot tub is a popular backyard enhancement. Modern technology has allowed for fancy firepits and unique dining areas with music and lighting for entertainment day and night.

Beautifying these spaces are healthy trees, shrubs, and flowers with native plants holding an advantage. “They help to keep a low-maintenance, sustainable landscape,” says Michael.

“They attract wildlife and create a healthy ecosystem and lifestyle.” tw MB Pro Landscape Design 15–35 Algonquin Road Enfield, NH (603) 252-6963

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OUTDOOR SPACES

HAVE A CRITTER PROBLEM? E S TAT E WIL DLIFE CO NTRO L CA N HUM A NELY E V IC T U N WANTED G UES TS

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nyone who has had bats in their attic, a squirrel in their walls, a skunk tearing up their lawn, or a woodchuck in their garden knows firsthand how destructive—and costly—these pests can be to your property. Since 2010, Estate Wildlife Control LLC has been providing professional and humane removal and exclusion of nuisance wildlife from homes and businesses throughout New Hampshire and Vermont. Owner Scott Borthwick and his team will not only get rid of squirrels, beavers, skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, mice, snakes, and other critters that can wreak havoc but also clean up their mess (like bat droppings) and make any repairs to prevent a future invasion.

A Passion for Wildlife Scott has worked in this field on a part-time basis for more than 30 years. Prior to 2010, he worked in the construction industry in one form or another and owned and operated Borthwick Builders LLC for a number of years. Due to a downturn in the economy, Scott decided to dissolve Borthwick Builders and pursue his dream of a full-time trapping business. He started trapping at age 15 and his first nuisance wildlife job was in 1978 removing raccoons from the Old Belfry Club in Lexington, Massachusetts.

In 1987, Scott moved to Canaan, New Hampshire, and started his first New Hampshire trapline the following year, another dream come true. Since then, he has served on the board of directors for the New Hampshire Trappers Association for 14 years (as president for two years), served four years on the New Hampshire Wildlife Federation board

Clockwise from top: Owner Scott Borthwick holds a single-family bat house that his company builds and installs. A raccoon was caught in Enfield after destroying seat covers at a marina. A chimney cap is installed to keep gray squirrels out of a home. A trap set in Hanover for a woodchuck captured a fisher cat instead. This fox had been living under a mobile home in Grafton.

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of directors, and was honored as Trapper of the Year in 2001. Scott also assisted the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department in writing the Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator laws for New Hampshire.

Full Service Due to Scott’s years of experience in both construction and wildlife removal, Estate Wildlife Control has the unique opportunity of providing not only professional removal of nuisance wildlife but also complete repair to prevent further problems—from repairing or replacing facia, soffits, siding, or roofing to securing decks and basements. Estate Wildlife Control also installs electric fencing to protect your property from deer, moose, and bears. A few years ago they started building and installing bat houses, which are a great way to support the bat population while excluding them from your residence. Recently two team members received training and became certified in bird removal and exclusion.

Whether you have a fox lurking around your chicken coop, a beaver relandscaping your property, a flock of geese that have made themselves at home on the front yard, chipmunks chewing through everything in sight, or any other unwanted wildlife in your home or on your property, Estate Wildlife Control can help. From chimney caps and bird deterrents to beaver pipes, bat houses, and more, they’ll evict any wildlife humanely and effectively. tw

THE POWER SAME FROM BOTHSUN SIDES WITH BI-FACIAL MODULES DIFFERENCE

More kWhs = More Value Whether Bi-Facials on the ground, or High-Performance Technology on the roof, LG modules offer the industry’s leading performance guarantee.

You will get better production during the life of your solar array.

141 West Street, Rutland VT www.samesunvt.com 802-775-7900 Authorized Installer of Premium Solar Solutions

HANOVER

Estate Wildlife Control LLC Canaan, NH (603) 523-9284 estatewildlifecontrol.com

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GOING GREEN PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOLAFLECT ENERGY

TRACKING THE SUN TO SAVINGS S O L A FL EC T’S T RACKER HAS MA N Y A DVA N TAGE S

Patented Tracker design generates 40 percent more power than rooftop solar. Three Trackers have been powering the Jacobsen farm in Norwich since 2014.

T

his year is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting (translation: hectic!) years for solar energy, thanks to the big 26 percent federal tax credit for solar that expires at the end of the year. That’s a savings of over $7,000 for an average solar installation. Solaflect Energy, based in Norwich, Vermont, has already seen demand for its ground-mounted solar Trackers jump 30 percent through March as compared to 2021.

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

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Why track the sun? There are four key advantages, according to COO Rob Adams: 1. Trackers usually just plain cost less. You generate 40 percent more power per solar panel when it’s mounted on a Tracker, so you need to buy 40 percent fewer solar panels to do the job.

2. Longer days. On the summer solstice in the Northeast, there are more than three hours that the Tracker can see the sun and produce full power that is lost time to even an ideally oriented rooftop/fixed array.

3. Faces directly at the sun at all times. Facing directly at the sun means receiving the maximum of the light’s energy. Sunlight falls on a fixed-mount solar array from an indirect angle, and sometimes not at all.

4. Sheds snow automatically. A solar panel with snow on it produces little to no power. Solaflect Trackers are already really steep in the winter (pointed at the sun low in the sky) and spend all night in the vertical orientation. Gravity clears snow fast, unlike rooftops that can hold snow for days or weeks, meaning a loss of 10 percent or more power annually.

Visit www.solaflect.com to learn more and help reduce your carbon footprint. tw

OUTDOOR SPACES PHOTOS COURTESY OF DECK DOCK HOME & GARDEN

SPRUCE UP YOUR DECK OR PORCH INVENTORY IS IN AT DECK DOCK HOME & GARDEN

D

Above: Lloyd Flanders has been making wicker in Michigan for more than 100 years. This is Reflections hand-woven wicker in Terracotta, a very trendy look.

Right: Teak is a perennial bestseller. The new St. Lucia swivel rocker from Three Birds Casual of Indiana combines modern design with the company’s top-notch construction for a motion chair that’s comfortable and built to last.

esign trends continue toward mid-century modern, says Lynne Wardlaw at Deck Dock Home & Garden in Sunapee, New Hampshire. “Clean lines, simple design, and emphasis on comfort and craftsmanship are what customers are looking for.” When it comes to selecting specific pieces, Lynne explains, “While sectionals are a hot new trend, they are pricey, and buyers lean toward traditional groups with a sofa and chairs, in either plantation-grown teak or poly.

For dining we still find teak is the more popular choice, with folding chairs and extendible tables. There are lots of dining options, including balcony height and propane fire inserts. Propane fire tables are popular in poly, granite, or aluminum.”

If you’re in dire need to furnish your porch or deck, don’t delay, Lynne warns.

“Supplies continue to be our biggest challenge. This year will be as bad as or worse than last year. Many of our vendors are already dating orders in late summer, and a few are completely sold out. Demand has not slowed despite ongoing surcharges related to freight costs and materials shortages.” But Lynne is prepared and has taken steps to meet her customers’ needs. “To cope with these problems, we have greatly increased our inventory. We’re betting on neutral colors and established favorites in order to provide immediate delivery,” Lynne says. tw Deck Dock Home & Garden 81 Edgemont Road Sunapee, NH (603) 763-3266 deckdock.com

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ADVERTISERS INDEX Allen Pools & Spas 49 Anichini 802 49 Barre Tile 109 Belletetes 65 Bennett Builders 72 Better Homes & Gardens/The Masiello Group 28 Biron’s Flooring 111 Brown Furniture 19 CB Lifestyles 47 Claremont Custom Framing 44 Claremont Spray Foam 4 Colby Insurance Group 113 Copeland Furniture Factory Outlet 49 Creative Lighting Designs 27 Crown Point Cabinetry 13 Crown Point Select 29 db Landscaping 21 Davis Frame 10 Deck Dock Home & Garden 81 Dovetail Landworks 48 Eastern Propane & Oil 56 Ennis Construction 1 Estate Wildlife Control 44 Estes & Gallup 48 Eyeglass Outlet 49 FloorCraft 133 Four Seasons/Sotheby’s International Realty 107 Geobarns Back cover

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Gilberte Interiors 7 Guaraldi Insurance, LLC 9 H.R. Clough, Inc. 48 Hanover True Value 141 High Meadow Builders 105 Hitchcock Woodworking 5 Home Comfort Warehouse 136 Hubert’s Family Outfitters 49 Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering, Inc. 99 Junction Frame Shop 88 Landforms Inside back cover Landshapes 105 LaValley Building Supply 11 Lawn Master of Vermont 88 Lebanon Paint & Decorating 127 Ledyard National Bank 103 LindeMac Real Estate 79 Loewen Window Center of VT and NH 139 Love’s Beddding & Furniture 57 Lumber Barn 48 MB Pro Landscape Design 45 Mascoma Bank 67 McGray & Nichols 15 North Country Door 49 Old Hampshire Designs, Inc. 3 & 133 Pierce McLaughry Group 109 Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects 111 Richard Electric 136 Rodd Roofing 48 Same Sun of Vermont 141

Serenity Property Maintenance 96 Shaker Hill Granite Company 115 Shepard Interior Selections 48 Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group 31 Soake Pools 2 Solaflect Energy 102 Springfield Fence Company 117 Studio Sage Interior Design 43 Sugar River Bank 91 Sugar River Kitchens, Bath & Flooring 99 Sunapee Shade and Blind 27 Talbot Builders 97 Terrigenous Landscape Architecture 49 The Cabinet en-Counter 96 The Carriage Shed 89 The Dorr Mill Store 48 The Gilded Edge 48 The Lighting Center 6 The Ultimate Bath Store 8 Trumbull-Nelson Construction 49 Twin State Garage Door 49 Valley Artesian Well 39 Valley Floors 38 Vermont Cabinetry 144 Vermont Spirits Inside front cover Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture 73 Watermark Marine Construction 48 Winchedon Furniture 12 Windows & Doors By Brownell 87 Yankee Barn Homes 17

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