Ole Decor Magazine Summer 2020

5401 North 10th St., Ste.101 I McAllen I 956.225.0035 Monday - Friday 8:00-5:00 www.morrisonsupply.com

Distinctive Real Estate

Calm and Serenity 129 Valencia. Los Fresnos, TX Bayview If you like seclusion, serenity and old world charm, travel back in time to this classic Hacienda flanked by Rio-red grapefruit orchards and situated on 1600’ of Resaca frontage. The sprawling vintage main house was built of thick adobe (nature’s best, green insulation for climate control) with multiple outdoor patios and balconies to enjoy the water front and surrounding lush tropical landscaping. Large rooms with antique character, 3 car garage and separate cottage, boat house on Resaca, irrigation system for grapefruit farm (approx.

150 tons of grapefruit harvested annually). This property is being sold as a whole at a substantially reduced price. Surveys are being completed to separate into 3 parcels.

olé decor Summer 2020

OFFERED AT $1,250,000

MLS: 82232

INQUIRIES

Troy Giles

Cell: 956.551.2040

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

troy@troygilesrealty.com

5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

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Distinctive Real Estate

Island Getaway 500 Padre Blvd. 1008/1009 SPI, TX Gorgeous 4BD/3BA with mesmerizing views of the Gulf of Mexico at Isla Grand Towers. Enjoy full service, vacation-style living in a furnished turnkey unit. Enroll in the hotel rental program & receive income while away! This 10th floor corner unit is located South giving you year round enjoyment. Bonus! The balcony wraps around the corner for views of the bay as well as the ocean! THE ONLY 4 BEDROOM Configuration at Isla Grand, updated and new finishes throughout, large walk-in laundry room with modern appliances. The Isla Grand offers luxury amenities such as, Quarter deck night club, Windjammer Cafe, Starbucks, Gift shop for all your needs, two swimming pools, two hot tubs, pool side tiki bar, tennis court and much much more!

olĂŠ decor Summer 2020

OFFERED AT $674,000

MLS: 9123

INQUIRIES

Glenda George

Cell: 281.779.0572

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

glenda@troygilesrealty.com 5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

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Invitation

Ole Decor Distinctive Real Estate

is the ONLY multi-media marketing agency of its kind that gives you all the online tools you will need to sell Real Estate and increase inventory! Listings published on our website will automatically be pushed onto all the major search engines on the web and social media!

See our latest magazine ONLINE ALL THE TIME

Publisher

Eddie Reyes Editor

Lynn Walker Hoverson Graphic Design

John Jacob Reyes Writers

Christina Rodriguez Alma Guerrero Barham Lynn Walker Hoverson Photographers

Tiffany Friechlag Adrian Llaguno oledecor.com 5800 Padre Blvd. Suite 203 South Padre Island, TX follow

@

Ole Decor

INFO go to oledecor.com, call 956.266.8663, or email eddie@oledecor.com. Contact us via social media or email us at officemanager@oledecor.com.

Printed in Mexico

www.OleDecor.com

On the Cover Manufacturer

KAPAL 956.461.0691 / 956.354.9821 3321 W. Expressway McAllen, TX Quality craftsmanship and impeccable style is a lot closer to home than you think. Unlike other businesses who use European manufacturers, they offer their clients shorter lead times and turnarounds because of their location and use of materials made right here in the Lone Star State.

Each of their 100% custom products come with a warranty and is produced locally at Kapal’s studio and production facility in the Rio Grande Valley.

Photo by:

Tiffany Freischlag

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Summer 2020 olĂŠ decor

Distinctive Real Estate

Penthouse Condominium 1300 Gulf Blvd. SPI, TX The Isola Bella penthouse is the ultimate in luxury beachfront living. The open concept great room offers a stunning view of the Gulf. The guest bedrooms face west, with a spectacular view of the Laguna Madre Bay. The master suite provides a panorama of the entire island. This condo has been professionally remodeled and redesigned. The color palette was inspired by the beautiful surrounding views; the blues /greens of the water, the sand of the beach and dunes, and the white clean lines that people associate with beach living. The trim, crown, cabinetry, and upholstered furnishings are all custom. The style is timeless, truly a one-of-a-kind space.

OFFERED AT $1,350,000

MLS: 91392

INQUIRIES Dina Rich

Cell: 956.551.0127

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

dinarichspi@hotmail.com 5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

olĂŠ decor Summer 2020

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contents Features

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Summer 2020

Distinctive Real Estate 1 In this Spring Collection of Distinctive Real Estate we are taking you to the beach! With incomparable views and the soothing tranquility of crashing waves, a beachfront property offers unmatched relaxation for both the mind and body. Gain unrivaled access to these extraordinary properties through our real estate professionals and discover your next home.

Manufacturer Spotlight 10 When it comes to manufacturing Custom Kitchens look to none other than Kapal. From the Cabinetry to the Hardware, to the Countertops and even the kitchen sink, these guys are the pros in selection and service.

Magnificent Homes 16 When it comes to very efficient homes, meet one of our very own local builders that is out building other contractors though all of South Texas and has the accolades to prove it. .

Indoor/Outdoor Living 24 The lighting in a home changes the mood of a room just as it does the perceived size of a room. Placement and type are important aspects of interior design. Here our expert sheds some light on its psychology.

Living Design 32 Mid-Century Modern Designs are known for juxtaposing sleek lines with organic shapes, using new materials and methods to reimagine traditional designs. The looks were futuristic, but they weren’t a total departure from the past.

Here’s one we found in Brownsville Texas.

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Featured Products 40 Control the weather in your outdoor spaces with an adjustable pergola. How much sunshine and even rain can be adjusted with a touch of a button. Available in many styles and a multitude of colors, JP can customize your own to satisfy any taste.

Featured Artist 42 Local talent Mario Morales is improving the landscape of our beautiful Rio Grande Valley with his colorful whimsical murals. Here he also gives us lesson on the technique of stenciling.

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Distinctive Real Estate

Amazing Getaway 4702 Gulf Blvd. SPI, TX Unique and beautiful BEACH-front townhome with pool! Well thought-out design and very functional. Fully furnished and ready to be your new residence or rental investment property.

First floor has a large bedroom/bath combo with access to kitchen, half bath, and living quarters which are situated for a perfect view of the beach and lovely pool area! Second floor is comprised of the spacious master bedroom/bath with two other bedrooms/baths on the same level. A living area space is located with a view of the Gulf of Mexico. The third level, which can be locked off and used when needed, consists of two bedrooms, two baths, and a living room, as well. The property has been remodeled in recent years and offers a complete package to call your own!

olĂŠ decor Summer 2020

OFFERED AT $1,195,000

MLS: 91572

INQUIRIES

Karen Moore

Cell: 956.639.9494

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

karen@troygilesrealty.com

5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

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Distinctive Real Estate

Breathtaking View 6105 Laguna Cir N. SPI, TX Isla Grand/Sea Island Tower. Luxury bay front townhome with your own boat slip and lift, Breathtaking bay harbor views of the Laguna Madre and sunsets. 4BR/4BA/2CAR with elegant foyer, custom design throughout, incredible master bath with amazing views, travertine flooring, granite counter tops throughout, leaded glass entry door, hurricane rated windows & doors, custom electric solar shades, furnished by professional decorator, additional storage & cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, pavestone driveway, many other stunning features and attention to detail. The gated subdivision also has its own private fishing pier with underwater lights.

OFFERED AT $670,000

MLS: 91565

INQUIRIES

Cell: 281.779.0572

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

glenda@troygilesrealty.com

5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

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KAPAL Manufacturer Spotlight

Kustom Kitchens From Residential to Multi-family new trends, new colors, and more‌

A

t Kapal we supply our customers with a full-service experience, making us the best option for a made-to-order residential cabinets. Now with our new showroom KAPAL GALLERY can give customers the service of extensive selections of new trends in colors and door styles, plus beautiful Quartz selection for your countertops, coordinated with a professional installation; all this in one place!

Manufacturer Spotlight

Countertops Quality on every piece, exact dimensions and high efficiency are some of the benefits of choosing Kapal for your large scale countertops project. With the latest technology in house to cut Granite and Quartz and the recent addition of 20,000 SqFt manufacturing space, we can now provide the Multi-Family Industry with fast turn around on both Cabinetry and Countertops.

Customized 3D Panels With our state-of-the-art machinery and advanced manufacturing techniques we can design and engineer all aspects of your project and these 3D panels are the perfect example of this. Create a feature wall in your master bedroom, divide an area with a piece of art created with these panels or an accent in your ceilings, the possibilities are endless and it’s all customized to your needs and style.

Modular Closets We believe that custom designed wood pieces for your home are like fine works of art. That’s why we make each of our pieces 100% customized to suit your home or business. Whether your taste is sleek and modern or classic and contemporary, together with one of your designers, you can see your unique artistic vision become a reality. Our specialties include custom cabinetry for kitchens, baths, and closets. But we don’t stop there, we also do 3D Panels, dinning and conference tables.

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Summer 2020 olé decor

KAPAL GALLERY 2503 E. EXPRESSWAY 83 DONNA, TX. Hours by Appointment 956.464.3311

olé decor Summer 2020

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Distinctive Real Estate

Tropical Oasis

204 W. Sunset Dr. SPI, TX OFFERED AT $1,185,000

MLS: 29718133

INQUIRIES

Dutch Fisher: 956.494.3731

dutchpescador@aol.com

Ludy Fisher: 956.545.8046 fisherludy@gmail.com

Dutch Fisher Real Estate

Office: 956.546.3474 1064 E Los Ebanos Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78520

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com 14

Inspired by the Owners’ Travels to Various Islands of the South Pacific & Throughout the Caribbean, The Design of this Magnificent Home Features Spacious Living Areas, Abundant Decks & Patios, Refreshing Pools and Lush Tropical Gardens. The Split-Level Floor Plan has Centralized Living, Dining & Kitchen Areas, with the Master Suite on 1 Wing & The 2 Guest Suites on the Opposite Side. Built of Stucco Over Reinforced Concrete with Extra-Deep Pilings and an Aluminum Standing-Seam Roof Equals Peace-Of-Mind & Low-Maintenance. 2 Large 2-Car Garages (1 with Workshop.) Situated on Nearly 1/3 of an Acre in a Serene Residential Neighborhood, Within Walking Distance to The Laguna Madre, The Gulf of Mexico and The South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center.

Summer 2020 olé decor

Distinctive Real Estate

Diamond in the Rough 1900 Northgate Ln. McAllen, TX A potential Grand Estate at one of McAllen’s most prestigious locations! Unfinished with great bones and perfectly set for your own personal getaway in the city. Nothing can compare to this impressive 7.56 acre (approximate) spread. The castle like rooms with soaring ceilings are truly breathtaking as well as designed for todays open concept living on a spectacular scale. Call your interior designer, contractor and architect to complete your dream home extraordinaire!

DISCLAIMER: The images above are architectural renderings only and are not indicative of the actual state of the unfinished structure.

OFFERED AT $1,400,000

MLS: 330224

INQUIRIES

Robby Valadez

Cell: 956.793.0029

Office: 956.800.4499 robbyvaladezrealestate@gmail.com www.robbyvaladezrealestate.com 221 W Nolana Avenue, Suite B. McAllen, TX 78504 For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

olĂŠ decor Summer 2020

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Magnificent Homes

Interview with

Raul A. Perez of

Caltia Construction Written By Christina Rodriguez

I

f you are looking to build a new home in the Rio Grande Valley and want a high quality, energy efficient home consider calling Dalila and Raul Perez of Caltia Construction in Mission, Texas. Caltia Construction values excellence and has been building homes in this area since 2006. They started building homes for family members while he was managing an automotive component manufacturing plant in Reynosa.

Raul graduated with two degrees from ITESM - Tec de Monterrey – one in mechanical engineering and the other in electrical engineering. He also comes from a family of builders. Dalila graduated as CPA from Universidad de Monterrey UDEM. When choosing a name for the construction company, they wanted something unique and they searched for words from the Aztec, Mayan, and Olmec languages and ultimately chose the word “caltia” which means “builder” in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec Empire.

956.997-7777 www.caltiaconstruction.com

Magnificent Homes

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AEP Texas High Performance Homes / Energy Star® Program

A new home or apartment that has earned the ENERGY STAR® certification has undergone a process of inspections, testing, and verification to meet strict requirements set by the US EPA. AEP Texas High Performance Homes / Energy Star® Program certified homes and apartments use significantly less energy than typical new homes and apartments while delivering better comfort, quality, and durability.

“

Across South Texas (Corpus, RGV & Laredo) we have over 50 Builders and 1,000 homes. In RGV we had 18 Builders and about 350 homes. We have three awards: Single (home) highest kW savings, accumulated (all the builders homes) most kW and Path to Performance (new builder to the Program). Only Caltia Construction has won the Single Home Highest kW Savings Award 3 times in the Rio Grande Valley.

-Garrett Dorsey

Program Manager for ICF AEP Texas

olé decor Summer 2020

The ENERGY STAR® program encourages construction companies to go above and beyond current building codes. Caltia construction was one of the first builders in the Valley to enroll in the ENERGY STAR® program. He has found a way to build within the ENERGY STAR® standards and keep the home price competitive.

The reason Raul chose to build energy efficient homes is because he wanted to find a way to “truly measure the quality of a house.” Not only from the result, or what you can see in the home, but “on the stuff that you cannot see.” In this way, Raul can show buyers a certificate that proves the quality of the homes he builds.

Homebuyers typically judge a house on what they can see – the quality of the workmanship in the tile, walls, painting, and more. What is behind the walls is not something you can see for yourself when touring a new build. Raul feels that the only way he can prove that his homes are better than the rest is through the ENERGY STAR® program.

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Magnificent Homes

Caltia Construction has received many awards for their homes over the years and is the only company in the Valley that has received the ENERGY STAR® AEP Texas High-Performance Homes - HIGHEST kW SAVINGS AWARD three times.

2013 – Caltia Construction built a custom home for a family who asked for a great quality home. Raul didn’t originally plan on entering the home into a contest, but once the home was completed everything fell into alignment and they were able to enter. Not only did Caltia win the 2013 AEP Texas High-Performance Homes HIGHEST kW SAVINGS AWARD, it also won BEST OF SHOW, Best Kitchen, and Best Home in its price category from the Parade of Homes by the RGV Builder’s Association.

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2015 – The second Caltia Construction home that won was custom built for someone getting ready to retire.

The home was built within budget and again, was not intentionally built with an award in mind. At the end of the year this home got selected to be the recipient of the AEP Texas High-Performance Homes HIGHEST kW SAVINGS AWARD. 2016 – Caltia built another custom home, this time a single-family rental home and again was not intentionally built with a contest in mind. It won the Best HERS Score of 50 Award and the Best Home in its price category from the Parade of Homes by the RGV Builder’s Association.

2019 – This third time now one of Caltia’s spec homes built at Las Villas del Rio on Shary got selected as the AEP Texas High-Performance Homes HIGHEST kW SAVINGS AWARD.

Summer 2020 olé decor

Raul suggests that first time home buyers consider investing in rental properties such as a fourplex. He recommends you live in one unit and rent the others to help pay your mortgage and build equity. Veterans can do this through their VA loan with 0 down, others can get an FHA loan and pay 3 to 5% down. After a few years, you can build a single-family home and use the original property that is bringing in money as collateral for the new loan. This is still a home loan.

If you build a home first and then want to build a fourplex it becomes a commercial loan and you pay 25-30% down plus a higher interest rate. He says this is the perfect investment for those working in the oil fields, medical, or border security that way if you need to relocate you left behind a property that pays for itself.

Four reasons to buy a 4-Plex before your first home.

1. Home values are high - Home values have been rising. A low inventory of houses for sale has led to a dramatic increase in home values.

2. Interest rates are low - Interest rates are typically under 4%. Your rate will depend on multiple factors – your down payment amount, your credit score, and your debt to income ratio.

3. There are tax benefits – Rental real estate typically has more tax benefits and the interest is tax deductible.

4. You have monthly cash flow potential – What can be better than other people paying your mortgage while you build equity? Any extra money can go towards paying your debt, bills, or savings for a down payment on your next house.

Caltia Construction is currently building Apartments 4-Plex on their new Las Villitas private Subdivision.

Shary Rd between Mile 4 and 5, within the City of Mcallen and Sharyland ISD. Same great quality on homes and apartments.

Call Raul Perez at 956-997-7777 or visit www.caltiaconstruction.com

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Distinctive Real Estate

Beautiful Bay View 5805 Laguna Cir N. SPI, TX Picture yourself living on the bayfront in this 3100sqft home!

The great room, with stunning views of the Laguna Madre Bay, is the perfect place for entertaining. The kitchen has a large center island with additional seating. A bayfront balcony spans the entire width of the house. Soaring ceilings add to the spacious feel. A spiral staircase leads to the crow’s nest. The master suite features a bay view, ensuite bath with jetted tub & separate shower, & huge walk-in closet. There are 2 additional guest bedrooms with jack-n-jill bath, & a half bath. Separate captain’s quarters with a full bath on the first floor. Additional features of this home include elevator, 2-car garage, boat dock with lift and elevated deck. Put this one on your must-see list!

olé decor Summer 2020

OFFERED AT $998,750 INQUIRIES Dina Rich

Cell: 956.551.0127

Office: 956.761.2040

MLS: 91149

TROY GILES

REALTY

dinarichspi@hotmail.com 5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

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Indoor / Outdoor Living

Can we imagine a world without light?

LIGHTING Written By Alma Guerrero Barham

Early lighting, before modern electrical devices were invented, consisted of kerosene lamps, candles, fireplaces, gas lamps, and for outdoors— fires made from burning branches and twigs and other materials. Thomas Edison was credited with the invention of the FIRST light bulb In 1879. If he were alive today, he would, without a doubt, be vastly impressed with how far his invention has come.For too long, lighting was not given proper credit for its importance in the design media. Actually, lighting is the most practical, exciting and mysterious element of the world of media. It is exciting due to its ability to transform the objects it touches. Light directs attention within a space because the eye automatically seeks out the brightest and most interesting object in the field of vision. It is mysterious because light rays are invisible until they strike a surface. As for its practicality, that is self-explanatory.

Good lighting is also extremely versatile. Depending on its use, it can highlight art, wash walls, facilitate a multitude of tasks, direct attention to beautiful landscaping, or it can be used to provide excitement and drama. It is also one of the few design elements that can be changed easily and quickly.

With the flick of a switch, or the turn of a dimmer, light can alter pattern, color and intensity. Lighting must suit the purpose for which the room will be used and also create moods in which the occupants will be happy to live or work.

Now we enter the arena of all the different options of lighting systems that can be utilized for the ultimate effect.

The most important concept in creating a good lighting plan for a home is to utilize a variety of different types of lighting: • AMBIENT • TASK

• ACCENT

olé decor Summer 2020

All three types are equally important in achieving the desired effect and are highly recommended.

AMBIENT lighting, which is the most important, can be attained by utilizing basic lighting fixtures such as chandeliers, track lights and recessed lights which are also known as downlights. A downlight is a type of light fixture that is installed into a hollow opening in ceilings. When installed, it provides the appearance of light shining from a hole in the ceiling, concentrating the light downward as a broad floodlight or narrow floodlight. Wall or ceiling mounted fixtures also create ambiance and come in a variety of shapes and colors.

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Indoor / Outdoor Living

TASK lighting provides increased light for tasks that require accuracy such as writing, reading directions on medicine bottles, etc. It is also useful for work spaces such as workbenches, workshops, or spaces used for studying, arts and crafts. Desk lamps, customized floor lamps, under cabinet LED (lighting emitting diode) are appropriate examples. A diode is an electrical component with two terminals which conduct the electricity in only one direction. Track lighting consists of light fixtures attached on a continuous track device that contains electrical conductors. Track lighting can be used as task lighting and ambient lighting.

Perhaps the most common error in kitchen lighting is the lack of downlighting in work spaces. It is imperative that light comes down and across all work surfaces and towards your task, whether it is chopping, stirring, etc. The best solution is to install lighting under hanging cabinets, recessed and shaded so that the light falls gently onto the work area. If there are no hanging cabinets above the work area, soffits on track lighting around the edges of the ceiling will work sufficiently well. Fluorescent strip lights are the most convenient to be placed under cabinets. Fluorescent bulbs also use much less electricity than incandescent bulbs.

The bathroom is the other room where fluorescent light is mostly used; although it should not be your only source. For shaving and making-up, you need good, clear light at least on either side of the mirror where you perform your tasks.

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Summer 2020 olĂŠ decor

ACCENT lighting focuses light on a particular area or object. It is used to highlight art or other artifacts. Common types of accent lights include wall sconces, floodlights, recessed lights, torchere lamps, track lighting or uplights. Uplights are lighting units that are placed on the floor around the perimeter of the room. The lights will illuminate the walls from floor to ceiling. Uplights are also very popular for weddings and special events since they create intimacy within the room. Lighting also affects the way we perceive the size of a space or room. Overhead lighting gives the effect of closing up a space and narrowing a room.

To make a small room look larger, wash the walls with light. Uplights, downlights and spotlights can be used to give a part of the room more recognition and visual importance.

Indoor / Outdoor Living

Lighting brings SPECIAL EVENTS to life and helps show case or minimize features or elements that you like or don’t like in a space. There are several options which will transform an event into a special and memorable one. UPLIGHTS, once again, play a dominant role since they project washes of light which add warmth, color and depth to the decor. TEXTURE lighting projects patterns on walls, ceilings, floors, stages, etc.

There are hundreds of stock patterns for light fixtures—from simple to ornate that can be used. The actual templates used that have the patterns are called gobos. PIN SPOT lighting has very narrow beams of light highlighting center pieces, place cards, guest book areas, bar areas, etc. The BLISS LIGHT creates 1000’s of pinpoints of light that look like stars which slowly move towards and away from each other, creating a slow moving star field effect. There are other event options available; and once again, it is highly recommended to utilize a lighting consultant for your projects.

No matter how much thought goes into choosing furniture and colors to create a particular ambience, none of it will work well if the lighting is wrong.

Hopefully, I was able to shed some light on this subject!

We must not neglect the subject of LANDSCAPE lighting or GARDEN lighting which refers to the outdoor illumination of private gardens and public landscapes. Well-planned lighting for these areas enhances them and provides safety, nighttime aesthetics and security. Recreational sports and other social event uses need good lighting and it is best to consult an expert in this field. They can explain the different functions, features, and latest technology to best achieve the desired effect.

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Summer 2020 olé decor

I must include a few words about how the PSYCHOLOGY of lighting also plays an important role in different settings.

Studies by John Flynn, professor of Architectural Engineering at Pennsylvania State University concluded that in the office, people who want to participate actively in a meeting and make sure their views are heard, will try to sit in the most brightly lit part of the room. Those who simply want to take notes and listen, prefer to sit where the light is less bright. In corporate settings, Michael Konda, author of Power and Success explains that the executive will design his office lighting to be warm and cheerful so that a potential buyer would be transported into a pleasant mood and be more likely to agree to the executive’s price. On the flip side, if someone was selling to the executive, the light would be colder and ominous to give the seller the feeling that this might be his/her last opportunity to close the deal and possibly settle at a lower price! It is not uncommon for corporate executives to have their office lighting aimed at themselves, so visitors will perceive who is in control!

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Distinctive Real Estate

Private Paradise 429 Padre Blvd. #16. SPI, TX The only private deep water marina on South Padre Island, providing instant access to your boat and the only private fuel dock on the water. 4 bedroom 4.5 baths, includes a living room, dining great room, game room, three outdoor patios, ample storage, private elevator & Two car garage.

The only large unit perfectly situated on the North end of complex to enable you to enjoy the South exposure during the Winter months. Newly renovated & updated, along with sophisticated decor distinguishes this unit from all other; all new appliances, including top of the line subzero kitchen appliances, remote powered shades, heavy duty power boat lift & plumbed fish cleaning table.

olĂŠ decor Summer 2020

OFFERED AT $559,000

MLS: 306903

INQUIRIES

Glenda George

Cell: 281.779.0572

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

glenda@troygilesrealty.com 5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

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Living Design

BACK TO THE FUTURE Written By Alma Guerrero Barham Photography By Adrian Llaguno

F

rank Lloyd Wright (June 1867-April 1959) was an American architect, interior designer, writer and educator who paved the way for Mid-century Modern Architecture which at times is referred to as Organic Architecture. Organic Architecture is a philosophy of architecture which combines harmony between habitation and the world of nature.

Mid-Century Modern Design homes became popular in the 1930’s and proceeded to become VERY popular during the 1950’s and 1960’s. These homes provided a contrast to the traditional home styles such as Craftsman and Victorian. To this day, Mid-Century Modern remains a popular design style.

These homes are known for innovative layouts that feature open, flowing living areas and a wide array of windows.

A true Mid-Century Modern home plan consists of making connections. The plethora of windows connect you with the outdoors, while the open spaces inside the home allow its residents to connect with each other. Simple lines and wood details take center stage in these homes. They are characterized by a contemporary, almost-futuristic aesthetic and a definite emphasis on function. This type of design can be seen anywhere from the Museum of Art to the Target catalog.

The overhanging eaves of the low pitched roofs appear to be a continuation of interior ceilings, yet again, blending the inside with the outside. Some homes literally bring the outdoors in by incorporating interior courtyards or atriums with glass walls.

Tranquil colors are often used such as neutral tones, calming pastels, white and off-white. Pattern and texture such as touches of wallpaper are also discriminately used in these homes.

Special thanks to home owner Doris Cancio for allowing us a glimpse into her beautiful home. ~Brownsville Texas

Living Design

The tide of history now brings us to the residence of the recipient of the 2019 AIA honor award in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Upon entering this residence, is a large, prominent, tiled front door which is quite noticeable. The home has a uniquely peaceful ambiance, yet does not fail to make an eye-opening statement. The owner proceeded to take us on an extremely interesting odyssey of her home.

Needless to say, the overall feeling was soothing, serene, due to its being very tastefully designed and decorated.

The walls are painted white, and some of the windows incorporate grey, rollup shades. The larger windows in the living/dining area retained its simplicity and elegance by the selection of off-white drapes which simply slide to open or close, depending on the desired effect.

The cedar ceilings and parallel beams highly accentuate the organic feel of the home. Interestingly enough, the selection of light fixtures and hanging chandeliers are contemporary, and appear highly futuristic. This, however, is my interpretation, not necessarily the owner’s. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

olĂŠ decor Summer 2020

The kitchen is a conglomeration of wooden cabinets, a white quartz counter top, a ceramic backsplash, champagne bronze faucets, hanging pendant lights as well as recessed downlights: once again, the epitome of impeccable taste.

The office is no exception to minimalism by the means of utilizing simple lines with white and black and Oh and I Love My Sunset color scheme. The choice of roll down shades, and most importantly, an open view to a large assortment of healthy, lush, green plants automatically connects any visitor with nature and relaxation, enabling being indoors and while accomplishing work at hand.

I must add at this point that the selection of furniture is large and organic in nature, such as the wooden dining room table which is accompanied by ergonomically-correct, what appear to be Eames chairs; another product of minimalism.

The art selection throughout is mildly minimalistic, yet makes a profound impression.

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Living Design

Stepping outdoors to the backyard creates another breathtaking view. The grass, as to be expected, is a dark, voluptuous green. A pool, which is approximately 40 feet by 20 feet, has steps and a graduating depth from 4 to 6 feet is also a play area also for three robust, highly vociferous dogs!

If desired, the pool lights up at night as well as the outdoor lighting. In my fertile imagination, I do believe the water in the pool with its lights, accompanied by the outside lighting at night, would give intense competition to the sky when the stars are in their glory. Once again, nature combined with the human touch. Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh??

According to an article in House Beautiful; instead of choosing two or three story homes full of smaller rooms, many people prefer larger plots of land and building or buying relatively sprawling, open concept homes on a single level, with a desire to embrace nature, which are the key elements that influenced the Mid-Century Modern home. We would like to thank our gracious hostess and homeowner for her time and patience and allowing us to tour her unique home and gardens. We are sure that there was alot of stress, deadlines and time spent bringing this home to fruition. Congratulations are in order!!!

My summation: Less is MORE....

How apropos; The Dusk residence is situated extremely close to the Wild Life Refuge; although I must admit that my favorite aspect were the rain chains, which hung outside the front entrance, connected to the gutters. They are black in color, hang from the roof to the ground level and the rain that ordinarily drips down, will drip along the links of the chain which will in turn create a mini show of sprinkling water drops.

I imagine this looks like tiny stars glistening on the black chains. Once again, taking great advantage of what Mother Nature has to offer, depending on her mood.

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Distinctive Real Estate

Puerto Del Sol 301 E. Houston. Port Isabel, TX Make an Offer! Spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath unit on ground floor at Puerto Del Sol Condominiums. Beautiful coastal decor and artwork, open living/dining area, nice kitchen with granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances. Step outside your back patio overlooking the infinity pool & hot tub with gorgeous views of the Laguna Madre Bay and South Padre Island. Ground floor units at this complex are permitted to BBQ on their back patio. Complex is within walking distance to the post office, local shops and restaurants. This is a fisherman’s paradise! Come take a look.

OFFERED AT $299,900

MLS: 91909

INQUIRIES Melissa Clark

Cell: 956.455.0077

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

melissa@troygilesrealty.com 5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

Puerto Del Sol 301 E. Houston. Port Isabel, TX If you’re looking for beauty and serenity all in one then you’ve come to the right place. These three units are located inside a gated bay front complex in walking distance to historic light house square in Port Isabel. There you can enjoy shopping in many of its quaint boutiques and dine in some of our areas best restaurants. Beautiful landscape surround both the infinity pool, hot tub and fishing pier with boat docks and fish cleaning stations just steps away. Unit 1303 is a two bedroom with two full baths and has recently been reduced from $285,000. to a low $269,900. This is truly a fisherman’s paradise!

OFFERED AT $264,900

MLS: 91555

INQUIRIES

Rudy Gonzalez

Cell: 956.536.5306

Office: 956.761.2040

TROY GILES

REALTY

rudy@troygilesrealty.com 5813 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

For more photos and information visit realestate.oledecor.com

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Featured Products

Featured Artist

Brighten your

Everyday Murals by Mario T

raditionally, a mural or stencil is any artwork painted directly on a wall, ceiling or any other typically large flat, convex or concave surface. They are presumed to be the oldest human art forms, as numerous ancient human settlements suggest. Murals and Stencils can be found all over the world, in places big and small, new and old, both public and private. A wide variety of artistic styles can be used by incorporating the use of variable techniques, materials and textures, like combining Realism with a dramatic sense of scale and amazing depth, while others can be noted for captivating color palettes and design, or an extraordinary sense of detail.

Mario Morales, owner of Artistico Art Studio,is a local artist that has been producing these types of work both locally and nationally, using “Where Art Meets Design” as his motto. For over three decades, Morales has specialized in creating unique decorative one of a kind finishes, meticulously handcrafted for an appearance of incredible depth and dimension. Morales uses these and other types of artwork and custom finishes like Venetian Plasters and Gold Leafing, to achieve unique decorative spaces by incorporating and transforming art forms into sophistication with a dash of glitz, in turn evoking glamour and romance. Morales’s mission is based upon a collaborative approach with his clients, in order to understand both the client and projects’ specific challenges, and then applying the most skilled resources in order to obtain the most creative solutions.

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In order to better understand how this type of artwork works in architecture, it would help to define what each is, as well as the cause and effect of its applications.

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What is Stenciling?

Stenciling is a decorative finish technique used to produce and exactly replicate a design or pattern. The image or pattern is created by applying paint to a surface by using the custom made stencil to apply a design to a surface through cut designed openings, therefore allowing the paint to reach the desired parts of the stencil design.

Stenciling is just one of many decorative design tools and techniques that is widely used by architects, designers and homeowners alike. When it comes to this type of artwork, stencils can be used as the perfect tool for creating stunning spaces. Stenciling is best used to decorate in quantity as well as quality, offering a practical fully customizable method for producing custom elegant designs at any scale or proportion be it simple or intricate.

The use of stencils in interiors is a common decorative finish technique, and has been used to create new designs or help reinstate existing decoration in homes and businesses all around the world. Though stenciling can be a relatively simple technique, it can achieve the most mesmerizing and complex designs. Typically, when talking about stenciling, it refers to the process as it applies to architectural projects. The art work in stencils can range from simple lettering and basic patterns to the very ornate and complex multi-layer designs with variable colors and textures.

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Featured Artist

What is a Mural?

Traditionally, a mural is any artwork painted directly on a wall, ceiling or other large permanent interior or exterior surface. They are presumed to be the oldest human art form, as cave paintings at numerous ancient human settlements suggest. Typically, a wide variety of artistic styles can be used in mural painting, by incorporating the use of mixed techniques which combine Realism with a dramatic sense of scale and amazing depth, often noted for an extraordinary sense of detail, or originality in design.

Murals have a dramatic impact, either consciously or subconsciously, on the attitudes of the viewer as well as the space it is applied on. Furthermore, the presence of murals in a any room or wall can be engaged from any angle and direction createing an interactive experience can by adding an emotional quality level to the daily lives those viewing it.

Good mural artists will consider their mural in relation to the mural’s natural or architectural setting, allowing the piece to become an aesthetic, social, and most importantly engaging and relevant part of the space it occupies. Murals today are painted in a variety of traditional and non-traditional ways like oil, water, or diverse -based media, and can vary in style from abstract and trompe l’oeil, to faux finishes and hyper realism.

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Murals are wonderful in Great Rooms, Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, Bathrooms, Solariums, Breakfast Rooms, Parlors, Private Offices... the list goes on. Most importantly, the personal connection and interaction between the space and artist is an amazing and unique experience, by allowing the viewer a glimpse into the creation itself.

Morales’s designs solutions create a rich visual and textile experience with a wide diversity of possibilities and applications for every room in the home. Design Solutions and decorative treatments are created specifically for each and every context, seeking only what is appropriate.. By working closely with the client, including “hands on principal management”, each project can be custom tailored to bring consensus at every stage of a project. Commissioned Projects can be public and private, large and small, and through this experience, constantly strive to create one of a kind artwork by searching for and finding the proper project solution. The pictures shown are only a small example of how Morales of Artistico Art Studio can completely transform a space using these techniques.

Weather building a new home, remodeling, or looking to add a special touch to your business or home, Mario Morales of Artistico Art Studio will help you develop, design and produce beautiful one of a kind finishes for your home by making an appointment at (956) 497-1126. You are invited to discover and enjoy more of this type of work at www.artisticoinc.com

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