THECITY Spaces • Winter 2014

downtown reinvented A Big City Feel

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shelley Mozelle shelley@thecitymagazineelp.com

BUSINESS MANAGER Josh Sanchez josh@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITOR Kim North kim@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Meagan Kinley

SENIOR SPECIAL PROJECTS DIRECTOR Matthew Hallman

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER/ EVENT COORDINATOR Chaz Wilson “THE CITY SPACES, HOME & DESIGN“ and “The City ” El Paso Magazine welcomes

EDITORIAL DESIGN

your comments. Please send letters to “Letters to the Editors” 661 S. Mesa Hills,

Ernie Sanchez Creative

Suite 204, El Paso, Texas 79912, or email the editors. Phone number: (915) 500-5730.

Fax: (915) 500-5732.

Letters addressed to The City El Paso Magazine become the property of the

WEB PRODUCER Ryan Heape ryan@thecitymagazineelp.com

magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letters may be edited for space.

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All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by the magazine and may

Jacqueline Ramsey jackie@thecitymagazineelp.com

not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Editors in Chief. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of the magazine.

Lisa Carrejo lisa@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Ladonna Apodaca, Grace Neuhaus, Meagan Kinley, Josh

All rights reserved.

Sanchez, Maggie Asfahani Hajj, Soffia Wardy, Marko Morales, Jolene Keipp, Candace Vasquez, Sara Rueda, Natalie Rosales,

Subscription form can be found on page 105.

Retraction In the Fall 2013 Spaces we inadvertently failed to give credit to Ladonna Apodaca for her styling direction in “A Kitchen of Color” and “A World Inspired.” Our sincerest apologies.

Luis Miranda, Jr., Ryan Heape

PHOTOGRAPHY Rudy Torres, Dav Anmed

CONTRIBUTING JUNIOR DESIGNER Ryan Heape

SENIOR STYLIST Ladonna Apodaca

CREATIVE SUPPORT Theresa Guerra, Ibrahim Sánchez

www.thecitymagazineelp.com 2

INTERNS Sara Rueda, Natalie Rosales

Winter, 2014

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

contents

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Room at the Top

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Adobe Elegance

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A Creative Place

62

Galerie Kartís

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El Paso’s First Home

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A Staged Home Stands Out

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Anatomy of a Dinner Party

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Renovation of the Dining Room Table

Anson 11 Big City Dining By: Marko Morales

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Don’t Mess with the View By: Maggie Asfahani Hajj

Bold Southwestern Style By: Meagan Kinley

Sprited Design By: Ladonna Apodaca

The Westside’s New Treasure Trove of Art By: Meagan Kinley

The Magoffin Legacy By: Jolene V. Keipp

But Not All Staged Homes Are Outstanding Part II By: Ladonna Apodaca

Organization for a Perfect Night By: Soffia Wardy

Does Your Dining Room Need An Update?

By: Meagan Kinley

Global Eclectic A Mountainside Abode, By: Candace Vasquez www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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90 His Office Manly Suggestions for an Efficient Space By: Josh Sanchez

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88 96 98 100 107 108 110 112

Get Cozy Radiant Floor Heating Has Never Made More Sense, By: Ryan Heape

Does You Closet Need a Makeover?

Closet Trends, By: Luis Miranda, Jr.

Rekindle the Flame Revamping the Mantle, By: Natalie Rosales

Trend Alert Rustic Glam, By: Luis Miranda, Jr.

Creating Wealth With Feng Shui How Water Effects Wealth, By: Grace the Psychic Lady

It’s December 31.

Do You Know Where Your Money Is?, By: Bobby Blanco

Dog Showers Raining Innovation, By: Meagan Kinley

Gardening Without a Garden Gardening Tips When You’re Short on Space, By: Sara Rueda

Revamping Old Furniture Revolutionary Paint Techniques, By: Meagan Kinley

SUBSCRIBE NOW! downtown reinvented A Big City Feel

Room at the

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PLEASE MAKE CHECKS TO: THE CITY EL PASO MAGAZINE 661 S. MESA HILLS, SUITE 204, EL PASO, TEXAS 79912

Winter, 2014

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

Thank You El Paso!

For Making us #1

Chuck DeBroder

EDITOR Winter, 2014

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

F E I H C N I

The City Spaces is just that … spaces. The definition

per the magazine can be outdoor living space, first time homebuyers, million dollar homes, and as in this case the space of an amazing restaurant.

Walking down the streets of downtown, the feel of resurgence and an essence of growth fill the cool winter air in El Paso. The growth of El Paso’s downtown area is undeniable; construction, remodeling, detours, and closures spark the feel of a new downtown to come.

The Anson Mills building, which graces the cover of this issue, is one of the contributing edifices to the new downtown El Paso. While keeping its beautiful historic architecture in tact, the completely redone inside,

and hear the laughter of small children. The old cliché

definitely sets the standard for our new El Paso. In the

best describes, if these walls could talk … maybe we

“new” Anson Mills building lies one of the hot new

should stop my imagination and stick to the facts and

restaurants in town. Anson 11 is a hybrid restaurant

read the editorial.

that has amazing food, and has earned a reputation as one of our happening, always-popular restaurants

“Room at The Top” features a contemporary home

that people love going to for a night out on the town.

designed by McCormick Architecture. The homeowner

The two-floor restaurant, with different décor themes

allows us in to “view” his home because that’s exactly

per floor, is a smart business venture providing an

what sold him on this home, the amazing view! The

indulgent, casual dining opportunity downstairs, while

home showcases clean lines, pale wood floors and

the upstairs’ fine dining is an exquisite treat for those

amazing art.

looking for that special night out.

This issue reflects the past, the present, and the future of design; it is at once a tribute and a challenge for The homes of this winter issue of The City Spaces

what lies ahead in the spaces of our great city.

are an eclectic bunch. We start with the Magoffin Home, one of El Paso’s first homes. When one enters the home you can feel the whispers of the past, visualize women in the dresses of the 1900’s,

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Gives you more of what you love!

Announcing the launch of our

1st Annual Bridal Magazine On Newstands February 2014

launches a yearly

BRIDAL MAGAZINE February 2014 Save The Date Bridal Event

Coming

February 2014 Interested in advertising and being part of the event?

Contact The City

info@thecitymagazineelp.com

1 february 2014 PRICE $2.95

Winter, 2014

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

The Contributors

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1) Ladonna Apodaca 2) Rudy Torres 3) maggie asfahani hajj 4) Dav anmed 5) Sara rueda 6) Meagan Kinley 7) natalie rosales 8) marko Morales

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14 9) Jolene keipp 10) Luis miranda, jr.

11) josh sanchez 12) Ryan heape 13) Grace neuhaus 14) candace vasquez 15) soffia wardy

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For full contributor Bios got to www.thecitymagazineelp.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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The f O t r a e H e h T In g in Big Cit y Din

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W

hile there are an abundance of differences that set the city of El Paso apart from other cities in Texas and the rest of the country, there are two that commonly come up in conversation. If visitors

are not commenting on the beauty of the city’s historic buildings, it is usually because they cannot stop talking about the local cuisine.

The 103-year-old Anson Mills building on the corner of Mills Ave. and Oregon St. is home to a restaurant that is merging a bit of the past and a bit of the now. Interior Designer/Decorator, Juan Carretero out of New York City and Architect, Fred Rodriguez of CMI Architecture &

West Texas Desert

Interior Design, were called upon to create a modern and unique space that complemented and maintained the historic beauty of the building.

The building’s namesake and original owner, Indianan, General Anson Mills had his structure built near the site of the city’s historic 1800’s Ponce de Leon ranch house after returning from his military service

By: MARKO A. MORALES

Creative Coordinator: LADONNA APODACA Photography By: CAROLINE PETTERS

in the Civil War fighting for the Union Army. Henry C. Trost of Trost & Trost Architects completed the edifice in 1911. His architectural designs made up a majority of downtown El Paso in the early 1900’s.

Trost was trained and gained his experience in Chicago, Illinois at the same firm where Frank Lloyd Wright studied. With the amount of history the Mills building is associated with, those involved with bringing the idea of Anson 11 to life felt the restaurant’s look needed to flow with the rest of the building.

The concept for the downstairs portion of Anson 11 is a casual bistro dining area, while a timeless elegant fine dining approach is taken with the upstairs. It was apparent to Carretero in the early stages of construction and design that because of the sizable areas on two separate floors the team had to work with, the look and personality of the restaurant needed several vibes and moods.

“Anson 11 was conceived as Mr. Mill’s house... we needed to “split” the whole area into different rooms that would serve for different purposes... so that the experience was similar to that of a residence where each room has a distinct purpose.”

As one enters the first floor into the establishment, red and beige poured cement tile leads up to the bar and dining area known as “The Bistro”. It was common to see a similar type of tile used in the houses in Mexico built in and around the 30’s and 40’s. When making a liquor selection, many might find their eyes focusing on what appears to be a marble slab that sits behind the bottles against the wall. An onyx print set within glass, back-lit with LED lights is used so that the intensity of the lights can be controlled since, “Onyx is very inconsistent when back-lit; it has heavy deposits,” Rodriquez says, “You can’t really get any even tones.” Much like the structures erected in the area at the time, the onyx print and lighting is built to last. The onyx print can function properly for 25-30 years with little to no maintenance.

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JUAN CARRETERO - DESIGNER: CARRETERODESIGN.COM FRED RODRIGUEZ- ARCHITECT: CMI ARCHITECTURE & INTERIOR DESIGN CAROLINE PETTERS - PHOTOGRAPHER: CAROLINEPETTERS.COM STEWART GENERAL CONTRACTORS - GENERAL CONTRACTOR TUNNEL BRAVO - BRANDING COMPANY OUT OF PHOENIX, AZ

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anson 11

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

Flat screen televisions along the bar’s wall give the area a more laid

Two more rooms, one on each side of the lounge easily catch one’s

back feel where patrons can pop in to have a beverage and watch

attention. On the right side the room housing the chef’s table is

their favorite sporting event. The large store front windows the

almost entirely surrounded with stored bottles of wine behind plates

restaurant shares with the front exterior portion of the building made

of glass. The table itself is, “ A single run piece of (emperador) marble

utilizing natural light an obvious choice and gives this area the feel of

that is common throughout. It has a certain elegant feel that you don’t

dining in a downtown New York, or Chicago eatery. A maple veneer

find in a restaurant space,” Rodriguez says. The tin metal ceiling was

frames the large windows following the curve of the building leading

decided on to bring in a bit more of the design and feel from when the

into the next section.

Mills building was first built. The room’s purpose was to have a space where private business meetings might take place.

The room perfectly named “The Library” has maple veneer bookshelves stocked with warmly colored books. Above a matching

On the left side a room called “The Garden” has large sliding doors

fireplace hangs a recognizable portrait of Anson Mills with a modern

that can close it off from the lounge area, if a larger party wants a

touch, the vision of Alejandro Fournier, an artist from Mexico.

little privacy. The windows along the balcony open inward. Once all the windows are opened up, it has the feel of eating outside. It is

“I wanted Mr. Mills to command the area that was conceived as a

Carretero’s take on an indoor glass house.

library on the Bistro floor but I also wanted him to be represented in a way that was more in keeping with our times,” Carretero mentions. “My very talented friend, Mr. Alejandro Fournier from the Colectivo Sector Reforma, an artists group in Guadalajara, Mexico had this vision of incorporating neon lights into a copy of Mr. Mills’ famous photograph.”

A short stroll and elevator ride to the next level is where the restaurant switches gears. Everything on the second floor is upscale, from the white tablecloths and napkins in the fine dining room, to the piano in “The Lounge.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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“ I designed a pergola in the ceiling and the illusion of more balconies on the walls to give the sense of a more open, luminous space,” Carretero explains, “Using the boxwood green tiles as wallpaper to create the illusion of a Hampton hedge has become a constant feature in my work in hospitality design.”

At the end of the extensive walk through this eatery, hidden somewhere towards the back end of the second floor there is a spacious banquet room equipped with an audio and video system. The lighting system can effortlessly set the mood for a variety of events including conferences, or quinceañeras.

While one might experience several unique moods, feels and themes in each room, there is a subtle fluidity common throughout both floors, the colors inspired

by Carretero’s first visit to the Mills building. “The clerestory of tile windows in the façade had a very interesting eggplant coloration that was intensified into different hues of mauve, purples and lavenders when the sun hit them,” Carretero continues, “I knew right away this was going to be the color of choice to use as part of the identity of the restaurants and the glue that would bond the two restaurants upstairs and downstairs together.”

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Room Top AT THE

Many people focus on the interior spaces of a structure when trying to figure out

if a home might be right for

them, but for Bob Wilson and

his family, the best part of their home is not even inside of its walls.

“The way that I view the whole house is, ‘Don’t mess with the view’,” said Wilson.

By: MAGGIE ASFAHANI HAJJ Photography By: RUDY TORRES Stylist: LADONNA APODACA

Home Design: MCCORMICK ARCHITECTURE

“Everything’s about the view. The house builds into the view; when I garden, nothing ruins the view. Everything about the house is made to highlight that.”

D

esigned by McCormick Architecture, the contemporary home sits high above the city, nestled in the rugged Franklin Mountain landscape. The vantage point was part of the reason Wilson fell in

love with the home.

“In Philly, we had a house that was a hundred years old,” Wilson said, noting that he had not been particularly drawn to a modern aesthetic before purchasing his family’s current home, but has come to appreciate the style. “(The previous home) had two-foot-wide stone walls and a slate roof.”

Although the homes may be similar in size, they are very different in feel, according to Wilson. “In Philly it was a 4500 square foot home that lived like 2000. Here, it’s a 4500 square foot home that lives like 8000,” he said.

The Wilson family found themselves in El Paso for personal reasons, and based their decision on a variety of factors. It was a momentous yet welcome change, Wilson said.

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R O O M AT T H E T O P

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“We moved to El Paso for our kids,” Wilson, who works in finance, said.

He found the less hectic pace of El Paso a happy reprieve. “You get tons of time with your kids, which I didn’t get when I worked on Wall Street. It’s wonderful,” he said. “We lived in Philly, and we didn’t like the environment; (We lived in) Chicago. We liked El Paso because it’s a friendly place to raise kids; it’s safe.”

El Pasoans tend to take for granted the things that make the city so livable, but the Wilsons did not. “We made a quantitative system of how we were going to decide where we wanted to move,” Wilson continued. “Then we travelled the country for the qualitative feel. El Paso won five out of the six categories. We didn’t even know about weather; we didn’t know about how nice the people were. We didn’t know any of that.”

The analytical Wilson family seems to have taken a different approach when selecting their home, relying more on sentiment than hard data. Set above the city and blessed with a panoramic view spanning miles in every direction, the home features open spaces that flow easily in to each other and an unusual dual-level floor plan that finds visitors entering the space through the second level. The bedrooms are housed at the top, and guests must take a flight of stairs down to the living area.

The desert landscape was very different than what the Wilsons were used to, but the couple found the contrast enthralling. “When you come from Philly or Chicago – everybody loves the greenery and trees, but the problem with trees is you can’t see anything past them,” Wilson said. “All you see are trees. You don’t see the clouds rolling in. When we came to El Paso, we knew right away we wanted the view. We had a house in the Smokey Mountains, and you still couldn’t see anything. You’d have to cut down half the forest to see anything. Here you see for miles and miles and miles.”

The home showcases clean lines and light-saturated rooms. Pale wood floors and neutral walls highlight the aesthetic. An eclectic collection of art adds warmth to the space, and ranges from custom-commissioned textiles to pieces collected throughout the Wilsons’ travels.

Wilson said that there are no hard and fast rules to buying art, and that it is important to fill a living space with objects that have personal meaning. An avid gardener, he compares his philosophy to buying plants, and said that good art is critical to making a comfortable living space.

“When you plant gardens, plant a lot,” Wilson said. “Don’t ever buy one flower. Plant ten. You can never go wrong with too many flowers.” He said that buying art should be the same way, and adds that individuals will always succeed by collecting pieces that they enjoy. “You can never go wrong buying art that you like. If you have art you like in the house, the house will feel good to you.”

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Article Title

Winter, 2014

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

“ You can never go wrong buying art that you like.

If you have art

you like in the house, the house will

feel good to you.”

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Article Title

Winter, 2014

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

Adobe

Elegance

Bold

Southwestern Style

T

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

Photography By: RUDY TORRES Stylist: LADONNA APODACA

The Upper Valley is home to many historic houses, but one stands out among the rest as unique onto

itself. Built in 1983 by architect Art Needham, this home

pays homage to the rich and colorful past of El Paso through

its authentic Mexican Colonial charm. While the home is not

technically from the era it claims, it’s thick adobe walls and large handcarved wooden doors bring out the best of modern convenience and the regions plentiful heritage through its vibrant color scheme.

After entering the bold blue door, the house begins by rambling off a long hallway. Adorned with vibrant rugs and antique lighting, the visual effect this architecture emanates is astounding. To the right, lies the formal living room, which leads to the kitchen. Straight ahead is the rest of the hallway which leads to an office, an extra bedroom space complete with a unique hand-carved stairwell, and a master bedroom and master bath adorned with a separate private garden; this was the original layout of the home. When the current homeowners moved in they chose to renovate and expand the home into the primary backyard area. By restructuring the existing floor plan they were able to extend the roof to hang over a new elongated dining room and den. By keeping the original doors and windows the design radiates interest and feels open and welcoming to all guests.

Now the dining room, with an extendable table that can seat a family of over 20, fulfills the history it was originally created to portray.

Upon walking into the foyer it’s hard to miss the ornate stained glass that has been beautifully interwoven into the frame of the original front door. Like many of the unique facets of this home, this touch was completed by the homeowners themselves and breaths life and colorful light into the entryway of the space. The wood floor and

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Winter, 2014 polished brick, which sprawl through the original frame of the house, add a warm, rustic allure to the more “formal” space of the house. This combined with the bright and blooming artwork by a number of local and renowned artists like Frederick Cartier, Leroy Neiman and more add a balance of culture and southwestern charm. In addition to this, the homeowners even had a family member paint the delicate acrylic wall textures to the hallways and to the master bedroom Kiva. Details like this connect both past and present. The lavish southwest rustic furniture also enriches the home. The distressed nature of the mesquite, paralleled with the dark wooden ceiling beams creates continuity and vibrancy that exude warmth.

This home is also unique in its functionality.

All the windows are doors and all the doors are windows, making it nice to let in the breeze during the spring and summer months. Working with the two-foot thick adobe walls, which insulate heat during the chilly winter months and keep the home cool during the sizzling El Paso summers, the ornate fireplaces and Kiva’s in the interior help this home seamlessly maintain itself.

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Global Eclectic

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ

Photography By: RUDY TORRES Stylist: LADONNA APODACA Realtor: SUE WOO 44

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

A Mountainside

Abode

Perfectly situated near the top of the Franklin Mountains, Dr. and Mrs. Leavitt’s Sky Island home, which is currently on the market, finds itself cozied up between a picturesque arroyo and rugged mountainside. A winding road leads you away from the hustle and bustle of city life, into an area which boasts quiet views of the twinkling El Paso cityscape and to the doorstep of this beautiful Shangri-La. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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global eclectic

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fter passing though a quaint, yet entirely alluring courtyard, a doorway is within sight which transports both visitor and

homeowner into a refreshing realm of hominess and intrigue. Senses delight in a stunning and eclectic blend of decor and expansive breathtaking views. Patterns and fabrics found throughout, each starkly different from the last, work brilliantly and cohesively to create a captivating feast for those with the good fortune of being welcomed through the front gates.

The City SPACES was given the opportunity to interview Jill Spangler Leavitt about her inspiration behind the home’s awe-inspiring decor. We share that interview with you here: The City Spaces: What do you love most about your home?

Jill Spangler Leavitt: I remember the first time I walked into my house -- I was blown away by the views. We can see Mexico, Texas and New Mexico. The sunsets are outrageously beautiful.

We are originally from the Houston area, which is very flat. The views were the selling point. My husband laughs, because when we bought it, I did a cartwheel in the living room. I was just thrilled.

TCS: What was your design inspiration as you took ownership of the home as an empty canvas?

JSL: I’m an interior decorator and my idol is a California decorator named Tony Duquette. His mantra was “More is more.” I wanted to emulate that aesthetic without going too over the top. My home in Houston was decorated in beige, black and gold...it was very restrained and subtle. Once we moved, I wanted to embrace the culture of El Paso and experiment with color. The large Diego Rivera “knock-off” over the red sofa in the living room was purchased from an antique dealer friend of mine in Houston. That was the starting point for all of the fabrics, paint colors and finishes throughout the house.

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TCS: How would you best describe your home and its decor?

JSL: A lot of our accessories were purchased on our travels. Maybe “Global Eclectic.”

TCS: What is your favorite room in your home and why?

JSL: My favorite room in the house is our bedroom. A local artist, Jimmy O’Rourke, painted the mural to compliment the drapery fabric. I’m not a girly girl who likes flowers and typical female colors.

I wanted the bedroom to be romantic, but moody and sexy, too. The only thing I never loved was the giant TV (you can imagine who’s idea that was!)...but life is filled with give and take. Second favorite would be our pool. “Pool Days” were always fun at the Leavitt house.

TCS: What is your favorite piece, whether furniture, art piece or memento, and why?

JSL: My favorite piece is the Lyman Whitaker wind art in the front yard. My husband bought it for my 38th birthday in Santa Fe at the Wiford Gallery.

TCS: In walking through your home, my eyes were immediately drawn to your beautiful display of surfboards.

Can you give me a little bit of insight into the story behind them?

JSL: My husband spent his summers in Southern California with his grandmother; he grew up surfing and still does. I dated a lot of surfers in high school growing up near Surfside, TX. My senior year, I skipped more school than I attended. I was always at the beach -- it’s a miracle that I graduated. Living in the desert, we really missed the water...that’s why I tried to put in as many water features as possible.

I thought if I used the surfboards as art, it would bring back good memories and keep that surfer vibe for us. The yellow one with the leopard print, I designed.

TCS: What do you want people to feel and experience as they walk through your doorway?

JSL: That the house has just been filled with so much laughter. I made the best friends I’ve ever had in El Paso. We had lots of parties.

I wanted people to walk in the front door and feel welcomed. I wanted them to feel like a lot of fun was about to be had and they could leave their stress from every day life outside the front door. Love, laughter, revelry...that’s what my house was all about.

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F I N D T H E M AT T H E S E O N L I N E R E TA I L E R S :

ZAPPOS.COM • NORDSTROM.COM • SHOES.COM • MYGLASSSLIPPER.COM

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

Winter,2012 2014 March,

Section

A Creative Place | By LADONNA APODACA |

Interior Design by: MARTHA MARTINEZ

Interior Design

by Fran ASID Photography by:Timbrook, RUDY TORRES Senior Designer, Charlotte’s Furniture

Stylist: LADONNA APODACA

Landscape Installation by Sid Steadman Photography by Christ Chavez

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nfused with color, found treasures and

I truly enjoy accessories and objects of art, and

favorite collectibles, the whimsical home

don’t worry about matching anything,” Martinez

of Martha Martinez is the result of her

passion for art and design.

When asked how she would describe her home, artist Martha Martinez quickly replies that where and how she lives is indeed very eclectic. “I like for my surroundings to feel

“For me, if it feels

right, it’s right! I break every rule in design when it comes to my home.

spirited,” Martinez says, “but I think it reflects who I am. I also like for my home to feel like it belongs to a world traveler. I love

”

says. “In essence I believe that if it feels right, it’s right. It’s just that simple.” She notes that when it comes to her own home, she breaks all the traditional rules of design.

Martinez says she always knew herself to be creative. As a self-taught artist, it wasn’t until adulthood that she first picked up a brush and began to paint. Her first foray into painting was with acrylics, and decades later this is still her

visiting new places, but haven’t been able to see all the countries

medium of choice. Almost every wall in her home has a canvas

that appeal to my creative side. Many of the pieces that I collect

of her design. She says most of her paintings are created for

are treasures from around the world. Each piece has a story and

family and friends, although she’s known to make donations of her

it’s that connection that makes me happy.

work to help raise funds for charitable causes that appeal to her.

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A

April, 2012 Winter, 2014

a cHroeMaet Pi v i eec ep l a c e

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

s the owner of Sunland Drapery, Martinez has

After 30 years of marriage, Martinez loves to point out

been a local businesswoman for more than 28

how supportive her husband is of everything she does.

years. Her company specializes in creating

“We’ve raised three great kids together,” she says.

custom bedding and drapery, and works closely with

“He’s been a wonderful husband and father and has

local interior designers to reproduce the vision of their

always been my biggest fan.” There’s a spark in her

clientele. Martinez calls herself a Window Fashion De-

eye when she shares some of her husband’s opinions

signer. It’s a creative moniker that illustrates her talents

regarding her artwork. She notes that Luis acts like a

well. She says that she is

lot of things don’t particularly

often inspired by the beauti-

matter to him, but based on

ful décor of the homes that

his comments regarding her

she embellishes. “Many

paintings, “he really does

times I’ll leave an instal-

have a very good eye.”

lation and be filled with a room full of new ideas. I

When asked if there is any-

love interior design and find

thing in particular that has

beauty in almost everything

influenced her life and her

I do,” Martinez says.

art, Martinez identifies a strong affinity for spirituality that

as inspiration. “I love study-

pleases this imaginative

ing streams of consciousness

woman is wine-making,

reflected by other religions,”

which she shares with her

Martinez says. “I’m so con-

husband, Luis.

A nother

pastime

Initially,

nected spiritually that I can’t

Martinez began making

imagine a day going by that

wine a little over a year

I’m not thinking a spiritual

ago with the guidance of

thought. I’m very blessed,

her friend Patty Gary the

not in a materialistic way, but

owner of Sunland Winery.

in truly understanding what it

After making a number of

“It just feels so good!” Martinez beams through a broad

producing wines at home with Luis. In time, the pair was

smile. She couldn’t have summed up her life more simply.

bottling a variety of wines; among them were Merlots,

Martinez’s art, like her life, just makes you feel good.

Symphony’s, Apple Rieslings, and a unique Pear Wine

We’re glad you’re an artist, Miss Martha! You make the

made from pears grown on their upper valley property.

world a more colorful place. This made Timbrook smile as

What was once Martinez’s pursuit soon became her

she thought about what a joy it is to create environments

husband’s infatuation. “Now,” she says, “he pretty much runs the show.” She adds that, “He’ll still let me paint the labels for the bottles though!” This mutual love of wine-making seems to be a source of great pleasure for this enthusiastic husband and wife.

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is to be alive.”

batches under Gary’s tutelage, Martinez then began

“I’m so connected spiritually that I for other imagine people to enjoy. can’t a day going by that I’m not thinking a spiritual thought. I’m Whether the project is commercial or residential this very blessed, not in a materialistic talented designer is a believer in style that is timeless.

She has an affinity for simple done beautifully. way, but in trulydesign understanding what it is to be alive.”

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The heart of our home is the living area where we can all sit and gather.

I’m all about family. www.thecitymagazineelp.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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I’m so attracted to the boldness and vibrant colors and patterns of African design.

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My husband is my biggest fan. he’s so supportive of everything I do.

I’m very blessed in that way.

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The Westside’s New Treasure Trove

of

Art By: MEAGAN KINLEY

Photography By: LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

Stylist and Interior Design By: LADONNA APODACA

It’s easy to assume that you have to travel hundreds of miles to see world-class art, much less buy it. But thanks to Karin Wöllner, owner and proprietor of Galerie Kartís Unique Treasures & Fine Art, Mesa Street’s newest art gallery is El Paso’s latest treasure.

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A

s you walk in, it’s easy to notice the stunning jewelry cases adorning the walls and the sea of color from the art

that pulls you into the rich, historic worth of the jewelry, artwork, trinkets and relics that are inside. As you draw closer to each piece, it’s clear why. Galerie Kartís specializes in unique, hard-to-find, certified art from literally all over the world. Wöllner’s collection consists of pieces from Tibet, Denmark, Bulgaria, England, Africa, Poland,

Russia,

Germany,

Chile,

Morocco,

Argentina, Afghanistan, Japan, China, Ancient Rome—the list goes on-and-on, and all of it completely exceeding prospect. The gallery also has almost every medium from sculpture, silverwork, wood blocking, paintings, a mass of beautiful, rare necklaces, earrings, bracelets— with every type of stone imaginable—to copper pieces, glasswork, and more. Many of these pieces deserve space in some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries, since much of the art is two or three hundred years old.

The best part of Wöllner’s carefully selected, exclusive art is that it is defies expectations.

Showcasing pieces like her Tibetan jewelry box, a large engraved, silver vestibule, encrusted with luscious turquoise and exquisite orange coral— this item is so old, it is speculated that the coral and turquoise were actually acquired through ancient trade routes with China via Tibet. This unique piece hardly scratches the surface of Wöllner’s over 1,000 other pieces of art.

From Gustav Klimt to glass from Ancient Rome, Galerie Kartís has it all and you will never believe how reasonable the prices are for these oneof-a-kind treasures. Whether you are an art enthusiast, shopping for yourself or searching for that hard-to-gift loved one who has everything, making a stop at Galerie Kartís has you covered.

Adding a piece of her collection to your repertoire of jewelry or your art compilation could be the best way to insert new depth and interest to your home. Visit Galerie Kartís Unique Treasures & Fine Art and see the most unique collection of art El Paso has to offer.

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El Paso’s First Home By: JOLENE V. KEIPP Creative Coordinator: LADONNA APODACA

As you stand in the courtyard of the Magoffin Home you are face-to-face with the statue of a vintage angel, aged by El Paso’s high heat and dirt laced winds. Surrounded by the bright white, smooth adobe of the home you are in the midst of a multicultural honor to the city’s history, nestled between apartment buildings and the ever-growing skyline of downtown.

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e l pa s o ’ s f i r s t h o m e

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e l pa s o ’ s f i r s t h o m e

T

Winter, 2014

he home itself is built around a small courtyard and is a leading

With over 100 years of Joseph and his family living in the house,

example a Pueblo-style home. The exterior of the home was

the structure began to show evidence of decay and in 2008 the

made entirely out of adobe bricks roughly two-feet-thick.

Texas Historical Commission began evaluating the updates needed

The home also features a traditional flat roof with vigas, wooden

to preserve the home. “The Historical Commission is wonderful in

beams that support the ceiling. During construction, these beams

providing funds,” says Leslie Bergloff, Magoffin Home Site Manager.

were brought down from Cloudcroft, N.M. on a horse-drawn wagon.

This project would prove to be no small feat as the assessment

Outside, the grounds of the twenty-acre estate were once covered

showed that electrical and mechanical systems were outdated. There

with sprawling flowerbeds, vegetable gardens, and fruit orchards

were also major cracks in the adobe walls from years of insufficient

sustained by the El Paso canal or acequia several hundred feet from

site drainage and a new roof was also needed.

the house.

Finally, in January 2011 the doors to the home were closed and the Historically, it all began when Joseph and Octavia Magoffin began

preservation project began. Their first challenge: removing the delicate

building their home around 1873 on what was then the outskirts

documents, photographs, pieces of art and furniture. Josephine

of El Paso County. Its principal construction was six rooms and a

Glasgow’s Victorian-style bed alone was forty pieces of pegged wood

large hall, and as his family grew with the birth of his son Jim and

and needed to be completely taken apart to be removed from the

daughter Josephine, so did the home. In May of 1897, severe floods

home as did most of the antique furniture. Once the entire collection

tore through the land damaging the lush gardens. Because of the

was safely housed off-site in a temperature-controlled facility, the real

desolation, the Magoffin’s decided to donate and sell off their land

work began.

in lots for as much as $2,000 each, many of which consist of Alamo Park in the Segundo Barrio and San Jacinto School on Olive Avenue.

Over the course of the renovation the drainage problems were fixed,

As their wealthy neighbors began building their homes closer to the

the cracked adobe was repaired, the exterior was restored and the

mountain, now Sunset Heights and Kern area, the Magoffin’s realized

cracks in the pavement were mended, making it more appealing

they loved their home too much and couldn’t bear to move.

to walk up to the remarkable home. As progress was made, local

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businesses and experts began contributing their time and efforts to the restoration and as a result the community was able to see just how special this structure is not only locally but statewide as well, it is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and in the National Register of Historic Places.

More improvements are continually being made. In January of 2014 a Visitors Center will be opened across the street in a home that once belonged to Dr. August Justice, which will house all the administrative offices and serve as a resource for more information on El Paso’s history.

Plans to recreate the lush flower and vegetable gardens are also underway.

Through the years the Magoffin family has given significantly to this city.

Joseph Magoffin helped bring the railroad lines to El Paso, supported new business and served as El Paso mayor four times. Octavia Magoffin was a philanthropist before charities really even existed and was always willing to help wherever there was need. They often had guests stay with them and would help them navigate the new terrain. Their children were educated, married and well traveled but always found their way home to the massive adobe structure. The Magoffin family championed for the early development of El Paso and it seems only appropriate that their legacy live on. “This is El Paso’s home,” says Bergloff, “And I hope El Pasoans will come out to enjoy it.”

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Live life brightly.

At El Paso Electric, the start of each day is our opportunity to fulfill a commitment to bring clean, efficient and reliable energy to our community of nearly 400,000 homes and businesses.

As our region continues to grow, we’ll be there whenever and wherever you need us – providing the power it takes to help you focus on the things that matter most.

And when your day draws to a close, our work continues – so you can rest easy, ready for all the opportunities that tomorrow will bring.

This is our pledge, because we live in the community we serve.

So go ahead. POWER ON.

Designed by: Attention: Job Name: Size: Order Number: Insertion Date(s):

CultureSpan Marketing The City Magazine EPE 13-63 The City Magazine Ad - POWER ON.indd 8.5” x 5.0625” 4C Client Placed Nov 2013

POWERONepe.com

August, 2013

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A staged home

stands

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out

But not all staged homes are outstanding.

By: LADONNA APODACA

Part Two Tips for Transforming Your House into a Show Home 1. Open those closets!

Open house visitors will peek inside your closets. Closets can be a make-it-or-break-it selling point for buyers, so show yours off to full advantage by giving excess stuff the heave-ho. Again, this is really important, so even if you need to store a few boxes elsewhere, it’s worth it. Aim to have 20 to 30% open space in each closet to give the impression of spaciousness.

2. Clean up the toys.

Of course there will be families with children looking at your home. But just because they have kids too doesn’t mean seeing toys strewn everywhere will sell them on the place. When people are house hunting, they’re imagining a fresh start. Show them that in this house, it is possible to have a beautifully organized kid’s room, and they might be swayed.

3. Try a pedestal sink to maximize space.

If you have a small bathroom but a huge cabinet-style sink, consider swapping it out for a pedestal version. Your bathroom will appeal much larger.

4. Use only perfect personal accents.

Especially in the bathroom, it’s important that anything left out for visitors to see is pristine. If you have a gorgeous fluffy white bathrobe, hanging it on a decorative hook on the door can be an attractive accent – but if your robe is more of the nubby blue floral variety, you might want to hide it away. Look at every detail with a visitor’s eye – bars of soap should be fresh and clean, towels spotless, be sure the garbage always emptied… you get the idea. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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5. Use extra rooms wisely.

If you have been using a spare bedroom as a dumping ground for odd pieces of furniture and boxes of junk, it’s time to clean up your act. Each room should have a clearly defined purpose; so think about what potential buyers might like to see here. An office? Another kid’s room?

Whether you buy inexpensive furnishings, rent them, or borrow from friends, making a real room out of a junk room will have a big payoff.

6. Entice people to explore the whole house.

By placing something that draws the eye at the top of the stairs, in hallways or in corners, you can pique curiosity and keep potential buyers interested throughout a whole home tour. A piece of artwork, a painted accent wall, a window seat, a vase of flowers, a hanging light or even a small, colorful rug can all work to draw the eye.

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7. Show how you can use awkward areas.

If you have any room beneath the stairs, or a nook or alcove anywhere in your home, try to find a unique way to show it off. By setting a small workstation, a home command center with a bulletin board, or built-in shelving, your awkward spot becomes another selling point.

8. Beware of pet odors.

This can be a big issue! If you have pets, get all rugs steam cleaned and be extra vigilant about vacuuming and washing surfaces. Also be sure to keep any extra-loved pet toys and doggie bones hidden when tours are scheduled.

9. Create a lifestyle people are looking for.

Generally speaking, you want to play up what your neighborhood or area is known for. Do you have a house in a quiet neighborhood?

Consider

adding

a

swing

or

beautiful

flowering pots to the porch. A home gets great added value when the outside is as welcoming as the inside.

10. Stage the outdoors too.

It should go without saying that you have to maintain the lawns and all landscaping.

Add blooming flowers to create focal points through the yard and dress up a patio with a welcoming pitcher of iced tea and a book at its side. This will suggest an inviting place to spend leisurely time. Even if you only have a condo with a small balcony, play it up big with a café table and chairs, a cheerful tablecloth and even a little tray of dishes or a vase of flowers. When people look at this scene they won’t be thinking small, they’ll think about what a charming place this would be to come home to.

By implementing these important tips for styling and upgrading a home any seller can set the stage for success and enhance their chances of seeing results fast.

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Anatomy THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

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of a

Dinner Party | By: SOFFIA WARDY |

www.soffiawardy.com

Many dinner parties put together at the last minute come out just fine, however, in our experience a truly memorable evening requires a bit of planning; it is all in the details. Organization gives the hostess more time and energy to enjoy the evening when it arrives. Advanced prep allows time to layer the table, the menu and the mood.

Consider the following elements when planning your next dinner party.

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a n at o m y o f a d i n n e r pa r t y

Winter, 2014

Prep Start Party prep at least 2-3 days prior; pull out platters and

Linens Iron your linens, crisp lays better than crumpled on your lap. If

serving spoons, use sticky notes to label which will be used to serve

using white or delicate fabrics, consider tucking a paper napkin into the

each dish. This little trick will insure that you do not forget to serve

linen for your female guests to blot lipstick and preserve your linens.

a sauce or side dish. Have plenty of everything on hand. At a recent

For additional tips, take a look at http://soffiawardy.com/entertain/love-

dinner party we had guests go back 3 and 4 times for our slow roasted

your-linens/.

pork wraps. http://soffiawardy.com/eat/slow-roasted-pork-wraps/ Place Cards Using place cards is a nice way to make your guests feel like Guest List Creating a good vibe is essential to the success of a great

they have scored a first class seat, are welcomed and expected. It also

dinner party. Consider inviting people that get along well or better yet

gives the hostess an opportunity to mix up the seating. As a nice touch

that don’t know each other at all. Make sure you assemble the list

write names on both sides of the card, to aid in remembering names

wisely and that people stand to have at least a few things in common.

of those seated opposite. For more on this see http://soffiawardy.com/

Mix it up and avoid sitting couples together, add a single friend or two.

entertain/ perfect-party-mix/.

Some of our closest friendships have been made through dinner party introductions. For an intimate evening, six to eight is the perfect number.

Centerpiece Flowers are great but try something different, such as

Always introduce your guests!

sprigs of fresh herbs in water glasses, an emptied can of San Marzano tomatoes with label in tact for a rustic look or a banana leaf filled with

Menu Ask guests if they have any dietary restrictions before deciding

fresh fruit and nuts that can be used as dessert. Be creative!

on a menu. Use seasonal ingredients available in your area. Never try a new recipe at a dinner party! Always make a great dessert.

Appetizers Weather permitting consider serving appetizers outside or if

Visit http:// soffiawardy.com/eat/ for recipe ideas.

seated, family style on platters to promote sharing. Mixed nuts and salty plain chips are always nice at the bar.

Table How many guests are you having, do you have enough chairs, plates? If not combine a few different options to create a new look. Take

Cocktails Create a specialty cocktail that you can prepare ahead. Create

time when setting your table, it’s all about layers, start with a place mat,

a self-serve bar or ice a variety of bottles in a creative container, allowing

then a charger, followed by a dinner plate etc. Plastic and paper are for

guests to help themselves. Offer cocktails as people walk through the

picnics! Have proper flatware, glasses, salt and pepper, water and wine

door. Have some non-alcoholic options such as tropical tea, fresh juice or

on the table.

sparkling water. Waiting around for a drink is only tolerable at a busy bar!

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Music Select a play list, it’s not fun to play DJ during a dinner party.

Powder Room Stock your powder room with individual guest towels,

The music should be loud enough to be audible but not so loud that it

scented liquid soap, a candle or reed diffuser and some flowers. If you

competes with conversation. Use it to set the theme, if you are serving

have space, a small dish of individually sealed mints or hard fruit candies

Italian, play Italian music. Have the music playing as guests arrive and

such as Glitterati. Remember it’s all in the details. Avoid messy bar

until the last guest leaves.

soaps and re-usable towels, although individual linen towels are always a nice touch!

Mood Creating the perfect mood is as important as serving delicious food. Have a drink during the last minute preparations to loosen up

Clean Up Never allow guests to do dishes, it is not fun to dress up for a

before guests arrive. The host or hostess sets the mood.

party and then have to clean up at the end. Always start your party with a tidy kitchen and an empty dishwasher to make clean up easy. Don’t

Ambience Light some candles, avoiding scented candles in the dining

be quick to clear plates after dessert, as it often ends the party mood.

room and kitchen; ambience and food scents don’t always mix. Freezing candlesticks the night before will eliminate wax drip on your table. Dim

Surprises After dessert is served and just when guests think they’ve

the lights inside, turn on entry, walkway and outdoor lights.

had all the fun, bring out a small dish of specialty chocolates, offer a taste of wonderful new liquor or an unexpected frothy flavored cappuccino.

Conversation As the hostess do not discuss topics that exclude any of

It’s a treat to try something you’ve never had before.

your guests. Sit talkative people towards the center of the table to help carry conversation.

Final Note Do not keep your guests waiting at the table. As the hostess, if you serve yourself last and consequently are not seated at the same

Favors & Hostess Gifts As a special touch have small favors for your

time then offer a toast welcoming everybody and asking them to please

guests to take home. As a guest never show up empty handed, even

start. As a guest always either call the next day to thank the host or

if the hostess tells you not to bring anything. Be creative; bring a jar of

send a hand written note. If you entertain frequently, keep a copy of the

homemade jam, a bottle of port, a fun kitchen gadget, maybe a favorite

menu, seating, wines, cocktails and guest list for each party to insure

new book.

that you do not repeat the same magical evening twice, with the same people of course!

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RENOVATION

of the Dining Room Table By: MEAGAN KINLEY

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W

ith the New Year finally

glass mirror adorning a nearby mantelpiece.

here, updating your old

French cane chairs work famously with

dining room table could be

these pieces, and don’t forget to pick up a

the best way to revamp and rehydrate

vase of peonies before entertaining.

your home and while you’re at it, a productive step in kicking off your list

The Nook

of New Year’s Resolutions for 2014.

Attaining the perfect dining nook could take

Remember, your dining table is the

the “formal” out of your dining room in all

focal point of your dining room and it

the right ways. The benefits of this space

will also systematically set the tone for

include comfy eating and a more intimate

your future dinner parties and evenings

setting for your entertaining needs. There

in. Choosing the correct piece should

are a couple of different ways you can

reflect you and/or your family’s style as

go with this look, and it could be perfect

well as your unique personality.

for singles. If you are a bachelor, think minimalist, burnished leather cushions

Rustic

paired with a dark wood stained table. If

This year’s most trendy table is none

you are female, think wide painted wood

other than the basic wood table. People

and dainty cushions. The nook also doubles

have loved dressing up and accessorizing

as the perfect morning coffee space as

these long oaken slabs, going for that

well as a great place to play board games

popular Provincial look with linens,

or host a private wine tasting with you and

candles and even rustic lantern pieces—

your closest friends. To achieve this look, a

replacing that drab lighting you’ve had for

square table offset with built in bench-like

the last 20 years. Long rectangular tables

chairs is the way to go.

are perfect for this effect; even pairing a beautiful wood bench is great, especially

Neo Classical

for those with larger families.

In pursuit of bringing back standard and making it new and different, a neo classic

Industrial

table can be the perfect balance between

With rustic in mind, men and women

you and your partner if your tastes vary from

alike have embraced zinc countertops

one another’s. Beautiful cushioned chairs,

and metal tables, pairing them with

and a round or small rectangular table work

contemporary and unexpected metal

best for this style. Also, mixing in a vintage

light

great

chandelier, modern mirror, or a pop of color

because the simpler you style it, the

via rug or wall are the perfect way to make

better. Rectangular-shaped tables are

this appear both classic and modern.

fixtures.

This

table

is

also prominent, again pushing towards that large communal feel. For a funky twist, consider adding tabouret chairs or metal stools.

Traditional with a Twist of Chic If there is a Marie Antoinette inside you, you are not being true to yourself if you do not redecorate in the traditional French style with just a touch of chic. The trick here isn’t so much the table itself, as much as the tablecloth and the rest of the accessories. Painted wood tables work great in any size, going long and rectangular or more circular could balance out and reflect the beauty of a glamorous chandelier or elegant www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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Radiant Floor Heating has Never Made More Sense By: RYAN HEAPE

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he case for under floor heating is

cables are often embedded in a thin layer of

to consult with your installer if you plan on

as strong and simple today as it

mortar, but you can purchase these cables in

laying a natural (non-engineered) wood floor.

was when people first figured it

prefabricated mats that roll out underneath

Retrofitting is obviously more tedious and

out during the Neolithic periods. As it’s set

whatever floor you are installing. Electric

expensive than with an electric system, but

up in most homes, heating the air from the

floors are often used as a luxury supplement

with the energy savings and increase to the

baseboards spreads allergens and dust, and

to conventional heating, so if you want to

value of your home, a system like this pays

you’ll always lose a not-so-small percentage

maximize efficiency, it’s best to use electric

for itself in the long run.

of source heat by the time it reaches the

when your floor is thick enough to store a

center of a room. Radiant floor heating

certain thermal mass that retains heat and

performs on average 30% more efficiently

doesn’t require a constant power flow. El Paso

by convection and radiation, delivering heat

Electric, like many other power companies,

from the surface that’s steady and faultless.

offers an alternate time-of-use agreement

You won’t know about the blizzard outside

that would allow you to “charge” the floor

unless you decide to walk over to the

at a lower rate in off-peak hours—8 pm to 12

window—barefoot and with a t-shirt on.

noon—and have enough heat stored to last throughout the day. Installing electric cable

So why don’t we see it used more often?

panels is fairly straightforward; roll mats directly beneath whatever

Mainly, cost and timing. Installation during

flooring you put down, or if you

home construction runs about 50% higher

have a basement or access to joist

than conventional central heating. But with

bays under the subfloor, you can

the increased efficiency, this overhead cost

install cables without having to tear

will be offset in about five years and will

up your floor.

actually save homeowners money down the road. Usually this window of opportunity

Hydronic

during the construction process is missed, and

This is the most complete and cost-

homeowners are stuck with their decision,

efficient solution as well as the

but retrofitting—DIY or by a contractor—has

most popular. Basically, 100-120˚

become surprisingly feasible in recent years.

F water circulates through tubing

Learn about the two main types of radiant

that’s usually set in concrete in

floor heating and then call a local contractor

the floor. Materials and equipment

to talk about how you’re never going to wear

run about $1.75 per square foot

slippers to the kitchen again.

(about $3,500 for a 2,000 square foot

home),

excluding

labor

Electric

cost. Most flooring solutions are

This method uses a series of cables installed

compatible with hydronic systems.

on top of the subfloor. In construction, these

Moisture is involved, so make sure

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

Office By: JOSH SANCHEZ

T

he modern day man is just as hardworking as ever.

Businessmen, entrepreneurs, professionals, doctors, lawyers and students, all need a home office; one that is more than a laptop pillow for when you’re on the couch or in bed. If you work from home full-time, part-time, nights, weekends, holidays or a combination of any of these, it is now 2014 and we need to take control of our home-office space. You might be lucky enough to have an entire room to call your home office or perhaps you just have a corner of a bigger room like a family room; either way a home office should be as organized and nice to look at as any part of your home. Whether it is out for visitors to see or behind closed doors, take the time and make the effort to decorate your “man-space.” Research shows that people work best under comfortable, organized, clean surroundings. Whether you spend little time in your home office, share it with your significant other, use it as an escape, or have a “pretend” home-office for aesthetics, this year spend a little time and money on revamping your space and let 2014 be a better year for ideas, work, creativity, and learning.

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his office

The Perfect Desk Probably the most important piece that you will look for when shopping for office furniture will be a desk. If you go desk hunting to large furniture stores, antique stores or even garage sales you will find that desks come in as many varieties of shapes, colors and extensions as any other major piece of furniture for your home. Invest most of your budget in a great quality desk that you will be comfortable sitting at while working for a long time. Consider revolving the entire office, furnishings and other décor around that perfect desk. Entire sets and large units are common, and there are some standout ones out there.

Don’t feel like all your home-office furniture HAS to match your desk.

Try mixing, matching and combining different pieces that compliment each other when putting an office together. For a cool modern look, try a counter height desk, some are even height adjustable, don’t think this drafting height is limited to architects, artist and designers.

The Chair You Sit On A home office chair should be comfortable, but still have aesthetic appeal to it. That dorm mass-market chair was fine for when you were a broke college student, but think about a chair that will say something about the type of professional you are. Casual and simple, modern and sharp, or maybe classic and in charge. Either way, think of the chair as an accent piece, don’t be afraid of a chair that adds a pop of color.

Whether it’s on wheels or standstill, go for a solid chair men, use patterns and design elsewhere when decorating your home office.

A Bar? Why not! Okay, maybe not a full-fledged bar, but why not have a small piece of furniture to serve as a bar area for you to service the occasional guest. A console table or unit with space underneath can provide a great go-to piece to have a bar set up and ready.

Consider using decorative glass or crystal decanters. These come in sets and are not as expensive as you might think, to hold your whiskeys, scotch and more. You can also display a bottled collection of your favorite spirits. If you are looking to splurge on something, there are amazing portable bars out there for your home that literally unfold into an almost full-service bar where you can store stemware, glassware and bottles.

Art A home office is the perfect place to display art, your own personal gallery. Vintage posters, signs, family pictures, samples of your work, awards, objects, models, books and virtually anything you could possibly collect can be displayed as art in your home office hanging on walls or sitting on shelves. Adorning your surroundings with what you love and what speaks to you will give you visual stimulation and inspiration while working.

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A Reading Spot Every office should have a comfortable reading corner. Look for a chair or two that compliment the rest of your furniture. Don’t sacrifice comfort when looking for a reading chair, but do not sacrifice style and cohesion either. Find the perfect happy medium in great looking chairs that provide the comfort you need. Whether you are going to kick your feet up with a book, a tablet, or maybe even your phone, give yourself an area to be able to relax for a bit, sit, think, and unwind.

And of course a settee is also a great alternative to reading chairs.

Shelves On Shelves Supplementary furniture to add to your desk and seating has to be shelving and other storage pieces. Files, paper work, and other things you do not want out should have a storage place, whether it be in desk drawers or other shelving units that you can invest in. Shelving does not only provide storage solutions, but a fabulous looking shelving piece, armoire, or unit can serve as additional decoration, places to display important things, décor, and oh yeah, books.

The Unconventional Office Space A weird shaped room, a large closet you don’t know what to do with, a nook, any space that is too small to be a room, can be converted into an office space. Think outside of the box and turn that area you don’t know what to do with into a little office space. Most of us just need a small laptop desk and some storage space, maybe even some corkboard or a chalkboard.

Turning a nook into a mini-office makes for a great DIY project for you to tackle and create your own custom built-in desk, shelving, and more. The most important piece will be a chair, so splurge on this as everyone will be able to see it, and will probably be the first thing people notice.

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

Winter, 2014

Does YOUR closet NEED A makeover?

By: LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

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woman’s wardrobe has always been known to hold her prized possessions from shoes to jewelry, women love feeling organized and a good wardrobe does just that. It

goes for men as well, their wardrobe might not be as immense as a woman’s but men are starting to realize that their closet space is a place they can express a little personal style. Whether it be dark

sophisticated wood or a built in shoe shining station, both men and

the theme of adding partitions, mirrored doors are another option.

women are taking the designing reins and tackling some unique and

The addition of these mirrors can really help make a closet look bigger

jaw dropping closet designs for the new year.

without any major construction, adding mirrors over counter tops and shelves can also intensify the effect. One centerpiece now found in

One idea that has begun to catch on is a style of closet that can

both women and men’s walk-in closets is a “closet island.” Typically

maximize storage while still giving your room a modern day feel. The

placed in the middle of the room these islands can hold anything from

closet design is made out of hardwood and is designed with built in

jewelry for women to under garments and cufflinks for men. These

high shelves and drawers. The closet also has an attached “library

islands have been known to have built in loveseats and shoe racks.

ladder” that allows for easy access to these tall shelves. When

Either route you take this added piece is sure to add relaxation and

constructing your ideal closet you want to utilize all closet space to

peace to your busy life.

avoid any clutter there might be in the future. The type of wood used for these designs play a big role and has a big effect on the look of the

With closets coming in all shapes and sizes any size closet can be

walk-In closet. Offering a variety of different hardwood colors these

luxurious. Just keep in mind when designing or organizing your

closet shelves are unique and have a fun element to them.

wardrobe you always want to maximize efficiency and you can do that by adding appropriate shelving and drawer space where needed.

Glass doors are also growing in attractiveness. Clear and frosted sliding

Also, closet organization is very important. Separating your clothes by

doors add a rare elegance to a closet and really give the “wow” effect

the type of garments they are and by their color can make it easier

because it’s less common to see glass doors in closets. Keeping with

when choosing what to wear. Another trick to improving your closet is maximizing all vertical space in the closet. Hanging necklaces, scarves, and hats will help keep your room organized and clean. Whether you’re remodeling or just organizing your closet the ultimate purpose is to turn a cluttered bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary. So improving your closet space doesn’t necessarily mean major remodeling but a little organization can go a long way.

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Winter, 2014

Rekindle the Fire

by Revamping Your Mantel By: NATALIE ROSALES

A fireplace tends to be the focal point of any living room and because of this, changing how your mantel looks can transform the dynamic of a room for an entirely new feature. Remember to start simple, think of your mantel as a display that can be ever-changing.

Acknowledge that your mantel should reflect your personality so take the time to think about what you like and reflect that into your design choices. With the holiday season just ending it’s easy to get caught up in the discounted prices on décor. Make sure to stay away from plastic to avoid the display from looking cheap. Be natural and stick with glass, ceramic, and wood decorations.

Traditional Mantel with a Touch of Glam A traditional fireplace has certain sophistication to it, while also managing to stand out. This year it’s all about the sleek and structured white. Sticking to one signature color will give your mantle a glamorous vibe that will simplify your design task making over-accessorizing unnecessary. By adding a mirror to the top of your mantle and then piecing together a few simple decorations like mirrored vases, candles and white roses your mantle can go from bland to glam.

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Man Cave Mantel Men, channel your inner cavemen and turn up the heat. What better way to relax after a long day at the office then to start up a fire and tune into some ESPN. Mount a flat screen above your mantel and stick to wood and earth-toned pieces for the ultimate masculine feel.

Modern Mantel

Memory Making Mantel

In order to take simplicity to a

For a more conventional feel, hang your

whole new level turn towards

family portrait above your fireplace. Think

a more modern look and invest in an all glass fireplace. This futuristic

gold-plated framework and add deep red

look not only represents today’s millennial simplicity but it also

or noir-tapered candles placed in candelabras. For a more dramatic

contributes to your health and doesn’t allow smoke into your home.

effect add garland to your mantel. It isn’t just for Christmas ladies and

The elegant all glass effect will be the ultimate addition to your home

gents, so find some that fuses into your furniture’s color pattern, then

keeping the look simple and chic.

grab a bag of marshmallows and capture a few memories with your family around your fireplace.

Decorista Mantel For a more feminine feel stick to a romantic approach. If you’re like me and don’t want to get your hands dirty, add a mirror that actually fits inside the fireplace opening and in front place white candles on a candelabra to give more lighting and extra ambience. For the mantel itself add hints of color using pastel candles, mirrored vases or jars. Then for the centerpiece add your favorite piece of artwork to really make your mantel pop and to give it a more personalized touch. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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Trend Alert

By: LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

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prucing up your home this winter season with new décor has gotten a lot more creative and unique with a growing decorating trend called “Rustic Glam.” The new look has designers taking old run down furniture and making it shine again. This style of decorating continues to grow in popularity amongst households because of its refinement and sophistication. The look is also altering the way people see hand-medown furniture and old antiques. Rustic glam is perfect for anyone that likes earthy warm modern furnishings. This is because the style involves a mixture of using earthy home décor furniture paired against new contemporary mirrored furniture to make it sparkle. This interior decorating style has become so popular brides are now having rustic glam weddings. Achieving this rustic glam look is inexpensive, easy and sure to turn heads.

The style of rustic glamour is simply seeing the beauty in old furnishings and making them new again. This method of decorating uses a color pallet of deep warm tones like navy blue, black, army green, and beige these colors create a warm ambiance that shout soothing. Aside from colors, patterns are also very big in rustic glam and can be expressed through a variety of ways. Wallpaper is always a good method of adding texture and patterns to a room. Another way to express textures and patterns is with rugs, pillows, even seat upholstery.

The type of furniture ideal for achieving this distressed glam look is any furniture slightly wornout, dated, or rusted that still has potential to be something striking. Aside from furniture look for one-of-a-kind sleek and unexpected accessories like a set of empty antique jars or an art sculpture. These elements can really add pizzazz to your overall design. The best spots to find these accessories and furniture are at local thrift shops, garage and yard sales and general antique stores. When searching for accessories to go with your furnishings you want to look for basic natural materials, think nature. Eucalyptus branches, crystals, even stones all can be used. These materials are then paired with mirrors and shiny chrome objects such as candleholders, vases, and chandeliers. All these modern additions can usually be found at local home and décor stores. Rustic glam is a fun style of interior decorating because it can be achieved on a budget. Just remember when pairing your accessories to keep in mind you want a simple, easy-to-understand, glamorous look.

Whether you’re remodeling a house, room, or bathroom, incorporating a little “rustic - glam” into your design blueprints can bring fourth a mature elegance that is sure to hold the interest of your guests. Rustic glam is not just the cluttering of old and new furniture, it’s about creating a cohesive style around polished treasures brought back to existence.

The saying “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure” truly prevails in this case so when you are creating your own “rustic - glam” look, see what story you want to tell with your creativity.

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Revamping

Old Furniture Revolutionary Paint Techniques By: MEAGAN KINLEY

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

Paint and photo by: Bev Kinley

What’s Old is now the desired New. With the advent of social media websites like Pinterest and Houzz people have become increasingly more aware of ways to re-do and re-purpose their old furniture. And with the move to more rustic and antique pieces, a new coat of paint is the best way to give that old cabinet or wardrobe a more refined or provincial look.

Out of the mass of trendy painting techniques, some new styles have taken homes all over the country by storm; two of the top being chalk paint and milk paint. Here’s a guide to the best manufacturer’s and even a DIY recipe that will give your keepsakes a great new glow.

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint For the best and most professional results

and a clear wax. The clear is designed to go

using chalk paint, Annie Sloan is queen. This

on first to prime the surface for the paint, and

clever Brit developed a line of paint that is

the dark last to bring out all the details of the

both durable and excellent for everything

wood. These further ensure the durability of

from kitchen cabinets, to your grandmother’s

the paint and add an extra finishing effect

old rocking chair. This paint is superb

suited to your taste. For more information on

because it is nice and thick, which is perfect

Annie Sloan’s paint techniques and more of

if you plan on distressing the first or second

her paint merchandise visit, anniesloan.com

coat. The Annie Sloan Paint line has also

or follow her blog, anniesloanpaintandcolour.

developed two different waxes—a dark wax

blogspot.co.uk.

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Winter, 2014

Maison Blanche Paint Company Priding themselves on their one-of-a-kind

like “velvet.” Like Annie Sloan, Maison

water-based, vintage furniture paint, Maison

Blanche also carries their own antique

Blanche boasts a no prep furniture paint that

wax finish that makes your piece even

is perfect for almost any surface. Because

smoother. For more information or to view

of this paint’s “open time” drying process

the 36 different Maison Blanche colors visit,

(approx. 48 hours), the finished effect feels

maisonblanchepaint.com.

CeCe Caldwell’s Paints With the catchy slogan, “naturally green in

important to note that this paint is not meant

the color of your choice,” there’s nothing to

for walls or other high traffic areas). Like

not love about this eco-friendly paint. CeCe’s

Annie Sloan, CeCe also advises using wax for

paint is made from both clay and chalk and

a more polished finish. To learn more about

promises mineral-based, self-priming paint

CeCe Caldwell’s Paints and other products

that’s ideal for furniture and home décor (it’s

visit, cececaldwells.com.

Miss Mustardseed Milk Paint Milk paint is an old paint technique that uses

antique furniture to maintain it’s look of

the milk protein of casein and a mixture of

age, just with a fresh new look. The primary

other natural materials like limestone and

difference between the two paints being the

clay and boasts a non-toxic, mold resistant

waxed and sandpapered look of the chalk

recipe. This paint is stout and can adorn

paint as opposed to the “chippy” and solid

anything from interior to exterior surfaces—

feel of the milk. For more info about Miss

even ceramic tile, metal, glass and varnished

Mustardseed or to learn more about her line

surfaces. Miss Mustardseed’s is also great

visit, missmustardseed.com.

because like chalk paint it allows your

DIY Chalk Paint There are multiple recipes circulating the web

This method has proved itself tried and true

on how to best create your own chalk paint,

on the most high-traffic areas (walls, kitchen

the easiest and most cost-effective requires:

cabinets, etc.) and could be the perfect

• 1 Cup of Flat Latex Paint

method for your next DIY endeavor.

• 2 T. Non-Sanded Grout • Water (mixed to your desired thickness, the idea here is that there is no wrong consistency).

Whatever your household project may be, there is a perfect paint to meet your needs; whether it’s using Britain’s most regal chalk paint or making your own, these paint techniques are sure to wow your guests and give your old furniture a new and unique look that simply

Paint and photo by: Bev Kinley

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can’t be found anywhere else.

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CREATING WEALTH WITH FENG SHUI By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY

W

ho wouldn’t like to have prosperity and abundance in their life? When looking at the principals of Feng Shui, which basically mean wind and water and living in harmony within your space, it is important to pay

close attention to the elements of each section of the Bagua to create the proper flow of energy. The element for wealth in one’s home or business is water.

An example of not having proper placement of the elements would be if you have a fireplace (fire element) in the wealth sector of your home and you light it regularly, and you seem to go through money quickly like it burns a hole in your pocket. This is a good example of not having the proper element in the right placement. Of course this does not mean to never use your fireplace again. There are remedies to correct issues like this: one would simply add the water element to help correct it. A mirror over the mantle is a quick fix for this problem because the reflection of a mirror is similar to the reflection in a pond or lake.

Here are a few Feng Shui tips to enhance the wealth and prosperity of your home.

Please feel free to use any or all of them and pay attention to how the energy shifts once you begin tapping into the energy of Feng Shui.

• Be sure to close the toilet lid after each use as to not lose Chi energy which flows

away from the home through the drains. This helps to keep money from going

down the drain. Do this to all toilets.

• Place a live plant on the lid of the toilet tank in your bathroom, this helps to bring

the Chi upward keeping it and your money from being flushed away.

• Close your shower curtain and bathroom door to prevent Chi from slipping

down the drain.

• An aquarium is another way to bring in the water element. Be sure to have nine

fish inside. If one dies replace lost fish as quickly as possible.

• Keep clutter out of the wealth sector otherwise it clutters your finances.

You want your money to flow. Clutter in the wealth sector can lead to not paying

bills on time and debt piling up on you.

• Ensure all indoor and outdoor water fixtures are free of drips and leaks

BAGUA MAP

to harness prosperity.

• Place four chairs around the dining room table, as four is the number of stability. This helps to stabilize your finances (this is especially helpful to those who have trouble holding on to money.)

• Face the breadwinner’s dining room chair so that it is facing the entrance of the room when seated. This position is one of honor giving “the best seat in the house” to the person whose income you wish to grow.

These are just a few quick tips you can utilize to help you tap into the ancient art of Feng Shui. To determine the location of the wealth sector of your home or business you can locate it in the upper left hand corner or back left side of the property. Please see diagram.

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investment

Winter, 2014

By: BOBBY BLANCO CWS© PARTNER & DIRECTOR OF RISK MANAGEMENT & INSURANCE PLANNING CERTIFIED WEALTH STRATEGIST©

It’s December 31.

Do You Know Where Your Money Is?

D

ecember and January are the perfect months to look back at what you earned, saved, and spent during the past year, as W-2s, account statements, and other year-end financial summaries roll in. So before the groundhog comes out of his burrow to predict when spring is coming, take some time to get your financial house in order.

How much have you saved?

Did you reduce debt?

Whether you simply resolved last year to save more or you set a

Tracking your spending is just as important as tracking your savings,

specific financial goal (for example, saving 15% of your income for

but it’s hard to do when you’re caught up in an endless cycle of

retirement), it’s time to find out how you did. Start by taking a look

paying down your debt and then borrowing more money, over and

at your account balances. How much did you save for college or

over again. Fortunately, end of year mortgage statements, credit card

retirement? Were you able to increase your emergency fund? If

statements, and vehicle financing statements will all spell out the

you were saving for a large purchase, did you save as much as you

amount of debt you still owe and how much you’ve really been able

expected? Challenge yourself in the New Year to save a little bit

to pay off. You may even find that you’re making more progress than

more so that you can make steady financial progress.

you think. Keep these statements so that you have an easy way to track your progress next year.

How did your investments perform?

Review any investment statements you’ve received. How have

Where did your employment taxes go?

your investments performed in comparison to general market

If you’re covered by Social Security, the W-2 you receive from your

conditions, against industry benchmarks, and in relationship to your

employer by the end of January will show how much you paid into

expectations and needs? Do you need to make any adjustments

the Social Security system via payroll taxes collected. If you’re self-

based on your own circumstances, your tolerance for risk, or

employed, you report and pay these taxes (called self-employment

because of market conditions?

taxes) yourself. These taxes help fund future Social Security benefits, but many people have no idea what they can expect to receive from Social Security in the future. This year, get in the habit of checking your Social Security statement annually to find out how much you’ve been

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investment

Winter, 2014

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

2013 Broker/Dealer of the Year

Tracking your spending is just as important as tracking your savings, but it’s hard to do when you’re caught up in an endless cycle of paying down your debt and then borrowing more money, over and over again. Fortunately, end of year mortgage statements, credit card statements, and vehicle financing statements will all spell out the amount of debt you still owe and how much you’ve really been able to pay off.

Bobby Blanco CWS

©

Partner & Director of Risk Management & Insurance Planning Certified Wealth Strategist® Strategic Wealth Advisors Terrace Gardens Office Park 600 Sunland Park, Building One, Ste 100 El Paso, Texas 79912

contributing to the Social Security system and

Then it’s time to think about the changes you

(915) 532-8885 Office

what future benefits you might expect, based

would like to make for next year. Start by

(915) 842-9532 fax

on current law. To access your statement,

considering the following questions:

(915) 588-7897 cell

sign up for a mySocialSecurity account at

• What are your greatest financial concerns?

bblanco@sw-advisors.com

the Social Security Administration’s website,

• Do you need help or advice in certain areas?

www.sw-advisors.com

www.socialsecurity.gov.

• Are your financial goals the same as they were last year?

Has your financial outlook changed during the past year?

• Do you need to revise your budget now that you’ve reviewed what you’ve earned, saved, and spent?

Once you’ve reviewed your account balances and financial statements, your next step is to

Using what you’ve learned about your

look at your whole financial picture. Taking

finances--good and bad--to set your course

into account your income, your savings and

for next year can help you ensure that your

investments, and your debt load, did your

financial position in the New Year is stronger

finances improve over the course of the

than ever.

year? If not, why not?

Views and opinions expressed are those of Bobby Blanco and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. It is general in nature, is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as specific investment advice. Consult a financial advisor regarding your specific situation.

Diversification does not assure an investor a profit nor does it protect against market loss.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Securities offered through Investors Corporation, Member FINRA, SIPC Advisory Services Capital Advisory

offered

through

Capital

Investors

6 Kimball Ln, Lynnfield MA 01940

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D G

G

SHOWERS

Ra i n in

i n n o v a t io n By: MEAGAN KINLEY

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DOG showers

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THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

In the last fifty years, canines have come a long way from the solitary wooden doghouse in the backyard to the fluffy beds they now occupy in human homes. In fact, today’s culture has made great strides in accepting dog’s into not only the home, but also malls and even restaurants—larger cities even boasting their own dog-centered restaurants where your four-legged friend can sit at the table with you and enjoy a meal prepared specifically for dog tastes. Even in smaller metro areas it has become a common practice for businesses to leave a dog bowl outside their doors for passing pooches to drink from as they walk by.

So what’s next for our pampered pets? Many dog-owners are moving to install showers designed specifically with their pets needs in mind.

Before you shake your head in dismay, imagine the ability to bring your dirt-loving friend from outside into a more pet-friendly room (like a laundry room or mud room) without having to carry or lead potentially dirty paws through carpet-filled rooms (preventing later clean-up). A room where splashing or excess dirt won’t ruin your shower curtain, and a space where excess doggie “shaking” won’t drench your expensive guestroom towels. Let’s face it, using that old plastic cup to rinse their fur just isn’t cutting it. Think how much easier washing your dog would be if the shower was designed with them in mind; with a somewhat enclosed area, again reducing splash, and an extendable showerhead that you can use to effortlessly rinse soap and other residue off your dog. For puppies with a case of hydrophobia, their own pet shower could reduce anxiety—think of being able to adjust the amount of water pressure being used on them or creating a space that is more relaxing for you and your animal. Also, having an easy to use petshower may increase the hygiene of your animal because of the added simplicity— not to mention, all the savings from not having to frequent the doggie groomer.

Dog showers can be as minimal as a rustic wash area on your porch to an ornate Tuscan-tile

lain

washroom

that

extends from perhaps even your own bathroom. However you or your designer decide to install it, this new innovation is sure to simplify the act of washing your dog and add more personality to your pet-friendly home.

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Gardening a t u o h Wit

Garden By: SARA RUEDA

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Gardening

THE CITY SPACES HOME & DESIGN

or the avid gardener or those needing

porches, balconies, windowsills, countertops,

jars from inside to outside would suffice for

a new hobby, El Paso is a 12-month

even walls inside your home, are some good

a balcony garden, there are plenty options

gardening paradise. With temperate

places to set up shop.

that are DIY and gorgeous to look at. Verticals

weather and harsh conditions being a rarity,

such as extended mason jar gardens and

a thriving garden with a variety of produce,

Container Gardens

herbs, and plants is attainable. Whatever

Not only is the variety endless with this type of

take up less space since they’re standing.

degree of gardening one may be at, the

gardening, but it’s also convenient. All of the

There are also more options as far as what to

components of beginning and maintaining

basic materials can be found at local hardware

grow. Riddling racks that are normally used to

a garden can be intimidating. A common

stores. Pretty much any size of container will

hold wine bottles, are perfect for leafy salad

dilemma is having enough space to grow

work; the size will simply determine how

plants like lettuce, spinach, cabbage, and kale.

in. So if you’re not quite ready to commit

much growth you will see. For example,

Fruits such as strawberries, blackberries, and

to having a full on garden in your yard, or

smaller containers are perfect for herbs. If

raspberries are also an option. Pallets, which

you’re an apartment or condo dweller with no

there’s an area with plenty of sunshine, herbs

are usually stacked high out by dumpsters,

yard space, fear not. Balcony and container

like basil, dill, fennel, oregano, lavender, or

are inexpensive and great to use because, like

gardens are the way to go.

rosemary are an option. And if there’s only

riddling racks, they come with preset dividers

shade, options include but are not limited to:

for your plants.

Location, Location, Location

cilantro, parsley, mint, thyme, and garlic. A

French riddling racks are fun for balconies and

Before choosing what to grow, and what

traditional garden can be difficult to maintain

Decorative Element

to grow it in, a location must be decided

with plants and veggies competing with one

The benefits to having a garden are endless.

upon. When choosing a location, the most

another for sunlight, water, and nutrients.

For the home cook, there are always fresh

important thing to keep in mind is the amount

Mason jar gardens are a cute and efficient

and organic options at hand, there’s no need

of sunlight the space receives. Now not all

way to curb this problem. To make your own

to worry about pesticides, and there’s just

plants require the same amount of sunlight,

garden you will need: mason jars (either pint or

something quite satisfying about growing

so record the amount of rays your location

quart size are fine), potting soil, seeds of your

your own food. These offbeat gardening

gets. The next time you have a day to lounge

choice, and one-inch rocks. Place the rocks at

trends offer an array of benefits, the only

around at home is perfect to map a pattern

the bottom of the jars, (these will serve as a

downside being they require some extra

of the sunlight your perspective gardening

type of drainage since there are no holes at

watering. With that being said, you can also

areas receive. During a moderately sunny

the bottom of the jars), fill almost completely

utilize your gardens as an unconventional

day, take note every hour of the consistency

with soil, then following the direction on the

decorative element to enhance your home

of light. Make sure to pay attention to any

back of the seed packaging, add your seeds.

without doing much! It’s as simple as adding

objects that may affect the intake of light

a touch of twine, getting creative with labels

by your plants. Whether it receives full sun

Balcony Gardens

(6+ hours), partial sun (4-5 hours), partial

Balcony gardens are essentially container

painting a wooden base for your mason jars.

shade (2-4 hours), or mostly shade (less

gardens with more space. They are popular

Whatever your personal style may be, it’s

than 1 hour of direct sunlight), will determine

for one reason, direct sunlight. This is a plus

easy to incorporate with these little touches.

what will be beneficial to grow. The beauty

if your home is set in that direct route, but

of this gardening trend is virtually any space

again, not having direct sunlight will not deter

is a possibility. For instance, fire escapes,

your garden. Although moving the mason

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to distinguish between your containers, or

113

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