W+M Home Magazine : : Issue #5 Plants + Projects Issue

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LIFEST YLE MAGAZINE SUMMER 2022

Plants + Projects BIG IDEAS FOR HAPPY HOMES

compliments of W E S T + M A I N H O M E S

We tiptoed into 2022 as we're sure you did, filled with a combination of both hope and hesitation. We've learned so much, come such a long way, and although it feels like we have so far to go, we sure are glad we get to go together.

We hope that you will enjoy this Fifth Edition of West + Main Home Magazine, the Projects + Plants Issue. It's filled with before + after projects, from 1-day DIY's to wholehome renovations and everything in between, as well as great advice, helpful tips and wonderful resources...whether you've been thinking about painting or planting, tearing down or building up, this one's for you!

So, take your time, savor every photo, page and detail. You deserve it. And if you're thinking of making a move, starting or growing your Real Estate portfolio, or even just want to know if peel-and-stick or permanent wallpaper is the best option for your space, we're here to help, and we can't wait to hear from you.

Enjoy!

Stacie + Madie FOUNDERS of West + Main Homes @W E S TA ND M A INH O ME S

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A Look Inside the Issue plants + projects P. 6

HOUSEPLANT OBSESSED

Teen's room is a plant oasis P. 8

H I S TO R I C R E N OVAT I O N

Modern updates + additions P. 1 2

AIRBNB OF YOUR DRE AMS

Updated historic duplex in Bend P. 2 0

BEAUT Y MEETS UTILIT Y

FE AT UR ED

Oregon duplex full of charm

Laundry room + pantry makeovers P. 2 2

MODERN KITCHEN

Bringing an old kitchen up to par P. 2 5

SIMPLE CHANGES, BIG IMPACT

Upgraded kitchen with easy fixes P. 2 8

GREEN THUMB

Meet plant expert Tyler Sanchez P. 3 2

SIDING REFRE SH

FE AT UR ED

Meet the houseplant expert, Tyler Sanchez

New exterior brings new life P. 3 3

TA K E A S E AT

DIY patio sectional P. 3 4

INTO THE MODERN AGE

Bringing this bungalow up to date P. 3 9

BATHROOM RE TRE ATS

Clean + fresh new bathrooms P. 4 8

FE AT UR ED

Serene bath settings

YOUR HOME HOROSCOPE

The plant for your star sign westandmain.co

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Issue

Five

The Team EDITORS IN CHIEF

Madeline Linder Stacie Staub SENIOR DESIGNER

Helen Thompson

@madielindie @staciestaub

@helenthompsondesign

JUNIOR DESIGNERS

Julie Robertson Rylie Perrault I N S TAG R A M FACEB O OK YOUTUBE

COVER IMAGE

BY

Kaleb Riley @rileyvisuals DESIGNED & PUBLISHED T W I C E A N N U A L LY B Y

West + Main Homes PHOTOGR APHY

Merne Judson III mernejudsonthethird.com Kaleb Riley rileyvisuals.com

©W E S TA N D M A I N H O M E S All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

W E S TA N D M A I N . C O / M A G A Z I N E

hello@westandmainhomes.com

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@julierobertzon @ryliep26 @westandmainhomes facebook.com/westandmainhomes West and Main Homes

Contributors Kate Kazell Jenelle Brewer Jennie + Steve Hoffman Ashley Busch Steph Christianson Sam Messmer Tyler Sanchez Zachary Wolff Laurabelle Vaughn April + Rob Schmidt Kathleen Male Elliot Staub Kendra Clayton Jessica + Kenneth Work

@katekazell @selling _bend @5thstreetvilla @littletonhomegirl @christiansonsteph @yourhomespotential @the.green.age @zachary_d_wolff @laurabellini @the_star_ group @explorecoloradoliving

Obsessed with Houseplants 16-year old Elliot’s bedroom is filled with gorgeous plants - from tiny succulents to trailing pothos and even a giant monstera - so we just had to know how her collection got started and her best advice for taking care of so many leafy friends!

“My first plant was a ginger bonsai that I got for my 13th birthday,” said Elliot. “Since then I have received plants as gifts, picked them up at farmer’s markets and boutiques, and I love every single one of them.”

Elliot uses Google Calendar to keep track of her plants and their watering schedules. “I also follow a lot of plant care accounts on Instagram and TikTok,” she shared.

“My string of dolphins plant has grown so much since I have gotten it, because of that it is probably my favorite, but it’s really hard to choose!

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ACCOUNTS TO FOLLOW FOR INSPO O N IN S TAG R A M + T IK TO K

@PLANTKWEEN @REAGANKASTNER @T H E R E S E P L A N T S @BENJIPLANT

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A Historic Bungalow with Potential Turned

Denver dream home

K A T E K A Z E L L' S R E N O V A T I O N

All Fired

Up

Taking a historic home into the K A T E K A Z E L L' S H I S T O R I C R E N O V A T I O N

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When West + Main agent Kate Kazell and her family began their search for a new home in early 2021 they encountered an issue many homebuyers face: the houses they wanted were starting within budget and then ended up getting bid out of reach. Their search terms were a bit unique as well.

"We were looking for a bit of a unicorn, as we wanted a historic home…but also wanted some more modern features like an open-concept living space + a primary suite - which just isn’t how houses were built 100 years ago," Kate said.

So they got creative with the search and started looking for homes with potential to turn into the space they hoped for.

"During our house hunt, we made an offer on a super cute bungalow that had a couple walls taken down to create a huge open living area instead of the small, long and skinny living rooms that are standard in homes of that era,” said Kate. “It was beautiful and the best of both worlds - a charming historic home with a big space that we could envision kids running around in and having friends and family over without feeling cramped. When we didn’t get that house, we were kind of set on re-creating that feel and layout, and knew it would be possible to do ourselves."

PHOTOGR APHY BY MERNE JUDSON III

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Once they closed on this West Wash Park home, they got to work. The project was split into two main parts: knocking down walls on the main floor and removing a small bedroom for the open concept living room, and converting the original attic into a primary suite.

This was no small feat.

"Truth be told, it was a pretty big project that required help from several professionals: an architect, a structural engineer, and a general contractor who managed dozens of subcontractors,” said Kate. “We shared with them what our vision was, and they created the plans taking into account what was physically possible, required by permitting, etc."

With a project of this scale, it was important to have professionals guiding Kate through the process and

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applying their knowledge. While she initially thought the attic conversion would be simple like finishing a basement, it ended up having a fair amount of structural implications and required architectural planning in order to work within the confines of the existing structure. With so many moving pieces, this project required professionals from almost every trade including framing, plumbing, HVAC, drywall + tiling. Using a General Contractor with good contacts in all of these fields to coordinate and manage the project was helpful to keep it all on track.

The new upstairs primary suite features a bedroom, a full bathroom with dual vanities, a shower with a skylight, and a reading nook on the other side overlooking the street.

"The design aspect of it was really fun because we got to pick everything - but it was a little overwhelming at times because there are SO many options," admitted Kate. “Thankfully the vision I had in my head ended up coming together really well! I wanted to bring back some of the original features of the home that had been lost in renovations over the past century, so we chose new Craftsman style trim to match the original window and door casings, traditional 5-panel doors, really cool unique replica doorknobs and a traditional penny-tile in our new bathroom that is similar to what you’d find in original early century homes.”

But overall, it also has a bit of a Scandinavian/minimalist vibe, with some modern features like the stair railing, bathroom finishes, and light fixtures.

As with any renovation, this project came with surprises, delays and additional costs. Kate's advice is to prepare for the unexpected: It’s definitely not a quick episode of 'Fixer Upper,' but it’s worth it in the end to have a space you love!

“A plus side to doing a full renovation is being able to create areas perfect for your own family,” said Kate.

SEE MORE BEHIND THE SCENES ON THE BLOG: W E S TA N D M A I N .C O/M AG A Z I N E

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From 50's

to Duplex

Modern Rental Dream Savvy investors combined historical + modern elements to create two dreamy rental units in Bend, Oregon.

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“The duplex had previously been a rental and was in pretty rough shape. One side needed a full renovation (including electrical and plumbing), the other side needed aesthetic improvements,” said homeowner and West + Main client Jennie Hoffman, who renovated the property along with her husband Steve. “The fact that each side needed to be handled differently actually ended up making the finished duplex a really fun comparison of classic midcentury style on one side juxtaposed against modern mid-century style on the other!”

The 475 side still has the original cabinetry, arched doorway and traffic flow patterns it would have had for the very first 1950s family who lived there. "It’s so fun to experience and imagine when you’re standing in the kitchen cooking soup on the tiny stovetop."

The 477 side needed so much major renovation that it now has a very open and modern floorplan with nods to its 1950s roots in things like the subway tile, red oak floors, built-in linen drawers/shelves and tongue and groove paneling.

“It's hard to pick a favorite part of this project, but the shower in the 477 bathroom has my old elementary school door on one side and a double-hung window that you can open to the blue sky and treetops on the other side. At the same time, steamy water pours down from a rain shower head in the ceiling onto the white subway and Italian porcelain hex tile Standing there in the steam and fresh air feels exactly like home should feel and now that it’s an Airbnb, I sometimes squeeze in between guests so I can go stand in that shower and feel that feeling!”

FIND THEM ON AIRBNB: 5TH STREET VILLA75 - BEND'S PER FEC T MIDTOW N LOC ATION VILL A77 - PERFECT COUPLE'S G E TAWAY IN MIDTOW N

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"This is a classic Cape Cod-style with perfect balance and when you get a solid-built classic in a good location you can take your upgrades almost as far as you want to go and have it be worth your while."

– Jennie

BEFORE + AFTER

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BEFORE

AFTER

“The fact that it was in rough shape when we bought it is a big part of what inspired us,” said Jennie. “The place had great bones but not everyone looking at property to buy can see what’s underneath decades of wear. We just happen to have a soft-spot for old places and a bit of vision for what could be. When you get a solid-built classic in a good location you can take your upgrades almost as far as you want to go and have it be worth your while.”

Short Term Rental license came available (they are very limited), so they jumped on the opportunity to make a long-time dream come true.

The couple had originally intended to rent one side and live on the other but as they were remodeling, a

When remodeling, Jennie aimed to work around the original elements that gave the homes their signature style, leaving in the wooden double hung windows instead of opting for vinyl and adding touches with a nod to 1950s design, including craftsman style doors and the inlaid “Villa” mosaic.

“Once the classic elements were in place, I found spots here and there to modernize,” said Jennie. “These

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ended up being the finishing touches - things like doorknobs, light fixtures, faucets, decor and sometimes tile accents like the shower on the 475 side, or the arched stove backsplash in 477.”

Jennie + Steve were assured that they had found a special property as soon as they began working on the project: friendly neighbors were constantly stopping by to check on the progress.

West + Main Agent Jenelle Brewer who helped them with the purchase was amazed by the way the rental units turned out.

"We never went a single weekend without neighbors honking and stopping by to say how excited they were to see someone putting love into the place,” said Jennie. “It had been so disheveled for so long but people loved its character. They kept saying how they could see the place deserved better and were excited we were giving it love."

“This duplex was a hoarder’s paradise that we could barely see in when we walked through – dark, smelly, boxes everywhere, a disgruntled tenant sitting on the couch…most people wouldn’t have even finished the walk through,” said Jenelle. “But Jennie has more renovation vision than any person I’ve ever met and all she saw was potential!”

A MIXTURE OF OLD + NEW ITEMS TIE TOGETHER THE HISTORIC ELEMENTS AND REMODELED SPACE A S WELL A S ADDS SOME HOMIE-NESS TO THE AIRBNBS

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Throughout the project, they also met the previous owner, as well as several other people who had known folks who had once lived there, all of which couldn't wait to see the progress!

Jenelle agreed with the neighbors, saying that what makes the renovation so special is how Jennie + Steve kept true to the era of the home and the character of Bend, Oregon. “So many investors today tear down these classic structures or rip them down to the studs and change floorplans. I think their AirBnB does so well because of the true Bend charm that they have captured and capitalized on!”

"Steve and I love working together on projects," says Jennie. "Creating these spaces to prioritize hospitality, comfort, and aesthetics was next level fun for us. This project has been a long-time dream come true."

SEE MORE BEHIND THE SCENES ON THE BLOG: W E S TA N D M A I N .C O/M AG A Z I N E

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From Chore

to Chic

West + Main agent Ashley Busch and her husband Drake took on the big challenge of creating a laundry room in their home.

"Our laundry room was previously located in a closet in the kitchen which made it very inconvenient,” said Ashley. “I was tired of folding laundry on my dining room table and having the washer and dryer be an eyesore in the kitchen. At first I preferred not to have a laundry room in the basement, however we decided this was a much better alternative to our kitchen laundry closet!”

There was no plumbing in this space, so the most expensive part of this project was getting the plumber to come to the house and drill a hole in the foundation to be able to install a drain.

“I love everything about my new laundry space,” said Ashley. “It's actually fun to get away and do laundry now! I love that I don't have to fold clothes on my dining room table anymore and it doesn't bother me one bit that it's in the basement - I just count it as extra steps! Sometimes I stand at the doorway and just stare at the room because it's just so pretty.”

BEFORE

AFTER

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Pantry

re-imagined West + Main agents Steph Christianson and Sam Messmer teamed up and got an organizational wave of inspiration after scouring HGTV, Magnolia, Pinterest, and all-things-interior-design.

When it came time to actually begin on the pantry project, homeowner Steph credits renovation genius Sam for being detail-oriented and able to pick out specific design points to make a space even more eyecatching.

muscles) to get the baseboards off during the demo.

I remember Sam saying this is going to be the 'easiest' part of this project. Nope. That was not the case at all.

Someone definitely attached those puppies with some crazy adhesive many years ago!”

And the hard work did indeed pay off. Not only is the pantry practical, but a beautiful part of the home.

“Sam (gently) forced me to use all the scary tools that I never thought I’d have the courage to use,” Steph said.

“She is a real pro and insists on safety every step of the way. We also spent a crazy amount of time (and girl

"Sometimes I open the pantry door just to gaze at how beautifully it turned out,” Steph said. “I knew I’d be giving up some storage space but the trade-off was totally worth it for me. It’s a work of art in my opinion, and I am in awe that two badass ladies did this!”

BEFORE

AFTER

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BEFORE

AFTER

A new life for an

Old Kitchen

When West + Main agent Jenna Codespoti Wright’s client Kendra Clayton headed into her latest kitchen renovation, she knew they needed to take a mostly unused space, the dining room, and expand the kitchen to be bigger and more functional…with a little more color!

“This was our second kitchen reno, the first one was at our old house, so we were missing our nice soft close cabinets, counter space and bar area once we moved to the new house with the smaller kitchen,” Kendra said.

She worked with the design team at IKEA on a few different things to get everything drawn up.

“We hadn’t decided on the color of the cabinets,” said Kendra. “I was feeling a bit uninspired by going with white or gray. As we were walking through the showroom kitchens, I noticed the hunter green cabinets and was struck by them!”

Kendra decided to keep some of the final touches simple, with matte black hardware and white subway tile, to keep the focus on the cabinets in the kitchen.

is the big island,” said Kendra. The kids eat breakfast and do their homework there, and I can work in the kitchen and still chat with them. It also gives us more seating for when we have family or friends over. When it’s cleared off it looks amazing!”

The final result came together in a stunning way! $16,000 FOR LABOR $ 3 7, 0 0 0 K M AT E R I A L S $ 5 3 ,0 0 0 TOTA L .

"The showroom had gold hardware, but we decided on matte black for ours. We did white subway tile because I thought the cabinets should be the main focus in the kitchen."

– Kendra Clayton

“My favorite part, besides the color of the cabinets,

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E XP OSED BE A MS IN DA R K WOOD CR E ATE BE AUTIFUL CONTR A S T

BL ACK HARDWARE BRINGS A MODERN EDGE TO BOTH CONTEMPOR ARY AND

TR ADITIONAL SPACES AND TIES

TOGETHER THE ROOM EVEN IF CABINET COLORS DIFFER.

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Simple Changes

Beautiful Results JESSICA + KENNETH WORK

When West + Main agent Jenny Roope's clients, Jessica + Kenneth Work, were thinking about giving their kitchen a face-lift, the first challenge was finding the right contractor to make the space into an area they loved and enjoyed being in together.

"We wanted an updated and inspired environment,” recalls Jessica. “We absolutely loved every single contractor that worked with us on this project, and it went faster and smoother than we thought. We love how fresh and open the kitchen feels, and we didn’t even need to completely demo the kitchen in order to create a whole new look, feel and function for the space!"

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BEFORE

"I work with some of the best designers in Denver as their window treatment sub contractor, I often get to see the most beautiful kitchens! The inspiration came from being in my clients homes in seamless trending and their space."

– Jessica Work

AFTER

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Jessica used contact paper on the corner cabinets to make the glass cabinets a bit more opaque.

C ABINE T PAINTING - $10,000 WOOD WORK TO ADD ISL AND, UPPER BUILD UPS AND CROWN MOLDING $8,000 H A R DWA R E , SINK + FAUCE T -

$3,500

B ACK S PL A S H M AT ER I A L A N D IN S TA L L $5,000 COUNTER TOPS - $18,000

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Welcome to

The Green Age Whether you are in need of your next houseplant or are struggling to find the right care for your existing buds, let Tyler Sanchez of The Green Age guide you.

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"Keeping plants around the home and in the workplace reduces a person's stress levels, improves concentration, and increases productivity!"

– Tyler Zach Wolff and Tyler Sanchez are longtime friends, and they're literally planting seeds for each other's businesses.

Tyler is the owner and founder of The Green Age, a Colorado-based plant business that was founded during the pandemic.

As a single dad, Tyler took his love of plants and built a life around them, doing everything from installing and maintaining greenery in local restaurants and businesses, to co-hosting networking events (Wines + Vines is one of our favorites) and even helping Realtors put together super cute pop-by and closing gifts for their clients!

PLANT CARE TIPS + R ECOMMENDATIONS FROM T YLER AND THE GREEN AGE:

🪴 Enough sun based on what the plant needs. 🪴 The correct soil and the correct amount of water.

It's a combination of all of these and if your plants are dying, it means you are doing one (or more) of these too much!

"When West + Main agent Zach reached out and asked if he could introduce us to his buddy who owned a plant company, we had no idea what an amazing addition Tyler would become," said West + Main CEO Stacie Staub. "He not only fills our retail spaces with the most gorgeous plants, he also teaches our agents and their clients how to keep them alive, fills custom orders and is such a positive, dynamic presence whenever he is in our storefront offices!"

"For me, supporting and helping grow small business is just as important if not more than growing mine," said Zach. "Let's grow together, and let's pull each other up!"

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T H E B I G G E S T M I S TA K E H O US EPLANT OWNERS MAKE:

🪴 Taking plants out of their nursery pots. Due to the long process the plants go through to get from the grow house to your house, it's a big shock! 🪴 Not being aware of the temperature changes that plants experience on their journey to their new home...they need time to settle and adapt to their new habitat.

BEST PL ANTS FOR NEW OR UNCONFIDENT PL ANT OWNERS:

🪴 Money Tree - The money tree plant (Pachira aquatica) is a large tree. Also called the Malabar chestnut, it is often grown indoors in containers. Native to Central and South America, the plant is traditionally thought to bring good fortune to its owner.

DESIGN TIP

Pair different textures of pots together to add more visual intrigue. Woven baskets make a great vessel for larger plants, just be sure to keep the plant in an interior pot and remove to water so you don't damage the basket.

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It is from this belief that it earned its common name of the "money tree" plant. 🪴 Pothos - Basic pothos care is very easy. These plants enjoy a wide range of environments. They do well in bright, indirect light as well as low light and can be grown in dry soil or in vases of water. They will thrive in nutrient rich soil, but do almost as well in nutrient poor soil. 🪴 Scindapsus - Scindapsus can be grown as climbing vines up a totem or trellis, or you can treat them as trailing houseplants from hanging baskets. They're relatively versatile indoors as they tolerate low light fairly well, but do best in bright spots. Over time, with good care, they can climb/trail 6 feet or more.

When grown vertically, the leaves will grow larger and more dramatic

PL ANTS NE WBIES SHOULD AVOID:

🪴 Alocasias 🪴 Calatheas These plants are really picky with how often and how much they should be watered along with their humidity levels which is extremely hard to perfect.

Visit The Green Age on Instagram at @the.green.age or on their website at thegreenage.org

"Green Age will be a staple in the plant business here in Colorado for generations."

– Zach Wolff

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Exterior

Overhaul

What started as a smaller project to fix chipped paint + rot on the fascia boards turned into a complete remodel of the exterior of her home for West + Main agent Jessica Thompson.

Deciding to rip off all of the vinyl siding and see what's underneath, Jessica was met with completely rotted wood and decided to tear it all out.

"This project had a snowball effect, as we started off with a small ball, it got bigger and bigger as we kept going,” said Jessica. “There was no budget, it was more of a pay-as-you- go-or-can-afford situation.”

“I wouldn’t change a thing because the project turned out exactly as I envisioned!"

Jessica was inspired by the families in Disney movies who always lived in beautiful craftsman-style homes, and she knew she wanted to incorporate this look along with energy-efficient upgrades and historic features to create her dream exterior.

To figure out the design, Jessica uploaded a photo of her house to her Instagram story and drew in a porch with the colors she wanted, as well as the style of columns.

"It's hard to choose a favorite part of the project, but one thing I knew I wanted from the beginning was the pyramidal brick columns,” said Jessica.

“My great-great grandmother, who lived two blocks from our house, had them and I felt like the column shape would help maintain the historical accuracy of the home."

L A BOR + M ATER I A L S COS T DUMPSTER - $460 F R A MIN G , ZIP B OA R D + TA PE , PINE S ID IN G AND TRIM - $4000 OA K D O OR W/ SIDELIGHT S - $ 2 30 0 PORCH TONGUE+GROOVE FLOORING

- $1000

LIGHTBULBS + LANDSCAPE LIGHTS - $3080 ADDRESS NUMBERS - $72 E X TERIOR + PORCH PAINT - $730 BRICK COLUMNS - $4000 CONCRETE + L ABOR - $2800 32 ISSUE#5

ROOF - $11000 CEDAR SHAKE - $600

DIY patio

sectional

When West + Main agent Sam Messmer started researching outdoor sectionals online, she found that they were very pricey.

"My favorite part of this bench is the sturdiness. The couch isn't moving anywhere, no matter what kind of winds we get!" said Sam.

"Patio furniture is wildly expensive to purchase, and for good reason," said Sam. "It lives outside and needs to withstand the elements. Here in Colorado, the sun is so strong, it’s hard to get anything to survive it for very long."

To finish it off, Sam ordered outdoor cushion sets from Amazon that are water resistant and can be washed. This affordable option gives her the option to change up the look of the sectional whenever she'd like.

So of course DIY expert Sam decided to make one herself! She used pine, which is less expensive and easier to work with, and polyurethane to protect it.

The bench was custom designed with an angled back for comfortable lounging and a unique look.

TO SEE THE FULL PROCESS OF THE SECTIONAL CONSTRUCTION, VISIT SAM'S BLOG: YOURHOMESPOTENTIAL .COM/PROJECTS/ PATIO -S EC TIO N A L

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What's Old is New Again

West + Main agent Laurabelle Vaughn and her husband run a home renovation company called Redbud Restoration in Oklahoma. They are devoted to beautifying neighborhoods and giving new life to older homes while preserving their character.

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“This was a complete renovation,” said Laurabelle. “The home is a 1946 bungalow, and it seemed to be nearly all original...if any updating was done it wasn’t within the last 50 years!”

The project involved everything from plumbing and electrical, to framing, drywall, HVAC, and structural plus everything cosmetic.

“We basically gutted the home. The biggest challenge was making the kitchen as functional as possible, and I love that we were able to add both a dedicated dining space and tons of storage, an island with storage and seating, plus a pantry,” said Laurabelle. “Another one of the bigger changes was turning one of the bedrooms into the en-suite bath and walk-in closet for the primary suite. Because that bedroom no longer needed hall access, we were able to expand the guest bath as well.”

Another big improvement that really changed the feel of the home was adding more natural light by converting a window into French doors, building out two egress windows in the basement, and changing two of the exterior doors to full-lite.

BEFORE PHOTOS

“One of the biggest inspirations for this project was the neighborhood,” said Laurabelle. “I had several neighbors stop by to check on the project. They loved the home and the previous owner and wanted to make sure the home was renovated with class. So, I was inspired by the challenge of modernizing this home while maintaining the charm and character that everyone loved. I was also inspired by my love for challenging spaces and using space as efficiently as possible.”

One of Laurabelle’s favorite things about the project was finding magazines tucked away in the floor joists, some as old as the home itself. She framed a few of them and

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hung them on the wall in the hallway and used a couple others in the staging.

“One of the neighbors came by to see the home as we were finishing up and was amazed by the renovation. She couldn’t wrap her mind around the new layout and didn’t recognize a lot of the house, but she loved how the project had turned out,” said Laurabelle. “She ended up returning a few times that day to take pictures and to Facetime relatives of the previous owner. She loved that we had kept the original front door

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and the super unique fireplace, and she told me stories about coming to pick apples from the tree in the backyard decades ago and said how happy she was to see that the tree was still there. When she saw the magazines I’d saved she started to cry.

She loved seeing how much I valued the history of the home.”

Laurabelle always starts by measuring the home and hand drawing the floor plans. Then, she marks different designs and layouts using painters tape (i.e. islands, appliances, cabinets,

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vanities, showers, etc.) to make sure she has the space to include fixtures and storage while maintaining enough clearance to meet city code and provide a comfortable space. Using these measurements, she backs into the size and design of the finishes.

armed sconces to make sure the medicine cabinets could open, and a basin that was big enough for two faucets but small enough to leave counter space. This part definitely took a lot of planning and marking the walls!”

They spent about $190,000 on the renovation.

"I was inspired by the challenge of modernizing this home while maintaining the charm and character that everyone loved."

– Laurabelle The primary bath for example.

“I really wanted two faucets and distinct storage spaces,” said Laurabelle. “I had to find a sink basin, faucets, medicine cabinets, sconces and hardware that would make the space possible, and envision all of this before rough-in even began, so that plumbing and electrical would be located accurately. I chose wall mount faucets to provide more counter space,

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“I’ve found that typically labor is about 70% of the cost of projects, so I do what I can myself,” she said.

“In this home, the parts I DIYed were: framing the basement, laying the wood flooring, hanging the doors, installing the baseboards/trim and shower doors, some of the tile work, sprinklers and landscape, and digging the egress windows/installing the window wells. I contracted out the parts of the project that required a licensed professional or would have been too time consuming for me to do myself.

These are things like plumbing, electrical, HVAC, window installation, drywall, paint, roof and gutters, structural work, fencing, etc.”

Laurabelle thinks the prettiest room in the house is the guest bath.

“The vanity I used was a cheap, plain, black vanity from Wayfair. Adding black hardware really elevated the look. I chose an inexpensive marble tile for the tub surround then tied it all together with a higher-end patterned marble floor tile. As far as use of space, I’m really proud that I was able to turn a 10x10 bedroom into a spacious bath and walk-in closet.”

R EDBUD R E S TOR ATION O V E R A L L B U D G E T: $ 1 9 0 , 0 0 0 FIND R EDBUD R E S TOR ATION AT R ED B U D R E S TO R ATIO N .CO M @ R ED B U D R E S TO R ATIO N

They did, however, splurge on some of the finishes, including natural stone tile, Pottery Barn medicine cabinets, Kitchenaid appliances, West Elm lighting and ADM flooring, while saving on others, including cement-look ceramic tile, subway tile, Wayfair + Costco vanities, Home Depot cabinets, Target lighting and IKEA cabinets.

“One of the most fun memories was hosting my wedding at this home,” shared Laurabelle. It will always be a part of my husband and I’s story. I loved holding our wedding at a place that I’d put so much hard work into.”

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n o i t u l o S y n n u S

West + Main agent Steph Christianson's home features 3 stunning arch windows in her living room, giving them loads of natural light and beautiful views, but little-to-no protection from that hot Colorado sun.

"After our first year of living in our home, we realized the only solution was going to be to cover the deck. This would block some of the heat coming into our living room," said Steph.

To execute the project, Steph contacted West + Main agents Rob and April Schmidt, who also own The Deck Company.

"They wanted the cover to feel as if it had always been there and was built at the same time as the house. So the materials were guided by the existing house." said April.

The roof cover ended up being the perfect solution. "Although the motivation to put a cover on our deck was to lessen the intense sun exposure, we've come to really enjoy the space year round. It's the perfect place to watch a Broncos game, enjoy a Saturday afternoon nap, or start the day with a cup of coffee + a book!" said Steph.

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Stay Fresh S A M ' S B ATHRO OM R ENO

With the previous layout of West + Main Homes agent Sam Messmer’s bathroom, the space was barely usable.

“The sink was located directly behind the door so you couldn’t leave it open if you were in the bathroom. You also couldn’t use the sink without fully closing the door.

There were shelves for storage but you couldn’t access half of them because they were too tall to reach at the top, and the bottom was blocked by the sink,” said Sam. She knew that in order to have a functional space, the bathroom would need a full remodel. To save some money before starting the renovation, Sam made a list of every item she wanted for the new bathroom and purchased it herself, having it ready for the team at Pride Property Services when they came in to demo.

“We had a few layouts and designs in mind and collaborated with CJ of Pride Property Services on his first visit to our house to come up with the best option for function and space. This entailed losing the tub, a controversial decision, I know, for a larger stand up shower, moving the sink next to the shower to open up the entry to the bathroom and get a full-size sink!”

After the major demo was taken care of, including the plumbing, electrical, and tiling, Sam was able to go in and prime, paint, add baseboards, hang fixtures, and build the built in drawers and shelves. This ended up saving her about $3,000 in labor costs.

“I love the amount of light and space in the bathroom now! It is so calming and spa-like in there we each definitely take our time getting ready in the mornings soaking up the new space.”

CONTR ACTOR: CJ OF PRIDE PROPERT Y SERVICES FOR A FULL BREAKDOWN OF COSTS + MORE INFO V I S IT W E S TA N D M A I N .C O/M AG A Z I N E

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Spa Inspired

Retreat

BY K ATHLEEN M A LE

“When I think about my ideal bathroom, I always envision myself in a tub,” said West + Main agent Kathleen Male. “I’m a tub kind of person, not Oprah-level enthusiast but somewhere close to that. I take Epsom salt baths and imagine the water cleansing out the craziness of my day while I listen to relaxing music and zone out. I want the space to feel like water but in a flowing and grounding kind of way.

This vision/feeling was what I was hoping for in our bathroom.”

BEFOR E BATHROOM

When they moved into their home, Kathleen and her husband Paul had some lofty ideas on their remodel.

“Paul began with a laundry room that involved tapping into the plumbing from this bathroom. He had to rip apart the vanity to access everything and, in that moment, our bathroom remodel began,” said Kathleen.

“Popular opinion: bathrooms should not be carpeted,” she laughed. “The shower was originally located next to the toilet, which we wanted in its own designated space with a door That’s when we hopped on the ‘wet zone’ bathroom design train. This allowed us to weave the shower into the space with the tub and place some glass to create the area.”

M AT ER I A L S TOTA L = $ 8 ,0 0 0

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DESIGN TIP

Small touches in the bathroom can elevate the space. Try rolling your towels, adding jars for bath salts or cotton balls or find fun accessories for unique storage like this mini tub for matches in Sam's bathroom.

Plants and crystals are also a great earthy addition. Amethyst, seen here in Kathleen's bathroom, relieves stress, anxiety + balances your emotions. Used widely as a healing stone for positive transformation and intuition.

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Horoscopes

for houseplants

It’s important to consider your zodiac sign when designing your ideal space - and choosing your houseplants. Use this as a guide to help you match your energy with your houseplants to create your home sanctuary.

SCORPIO

AQUARIUS

ID E A L H O US EPL A N T - P O N Y TA IL

IDEAL HOUSEPLANT - SNAKE

PALM

PLANT

With its thick trunk and umbrella of thin leaves, the ponytail palm is as sturdy as it is striking.

As a Scorpio, you’ve also created deep roots and a strong support system, allowing you to grow straight upwards. Like the ponytail palm, you are constantly branching out in different directions to make new connections + grow.

S A G I T TA R I U S

PISCES

IDEAL HOUSEPLANT - MONSTER A

IDEAL HOUSEPL ANT - MOTH

Many are drawn in by the beauty and elegance of the Monstera, just as many are drawn to your energy and presence. As this vining plant continues to grow, it needs staking + pruning, a good reminder for you to also recharge and take care of yourself in order to reach new heights.

ORCHID

This charming, colorful plant is long lasting and easy to grow. As you may find yourself getting torn in multiple directions, the moth orchid can serve as a constant source of joy + peace in your day and in your home.

CAPRICORN

ARIES

IDEAL HOUSEPLANT - LUCKY

IDEAL HOUSEPL ANT - CROTON

BAMBOO

48

The snake plant has become popular because it is incredibly easy to take care of. It doesn’t mind if it’s in low or bright light, and isn’t picky with humidity levels. This is the perfect plant for you, as you are constantly out trying to innovate + change the world, and might forget to water your houseplant.

The lucky bamboo is a great houseplant for you, as its fun twists and turns can serve as a reminder to enjoy the journey, and not be so worried about getting to the final destination. You are driven to persevere and succeed, and a little extra luck could I S S U E # 5serve you well on your life’s adventures.

The croton is the perfect plant for you.

With dramatically shaded leaves of gold, orange, red and purple, the croton is bold and bright - just like you. Despite its appearance, croton is easy to grow and can thrive in almost any home or office condition.

TAU RU S

LEO

IDEAL HOUSEPLANT - GOLDEN

IDEAL HOUSE PLANT -

POTHOS

ANTHURIUM

Similar to Taurus, the golden pothos is easy going and tolerant to many different types of environments. With heart shaped leaves and splashes of yellow, this plant will brighten up any space and contribute to the soothing, serene environment that you as a Taurus enjoy.

The anthurium features beautiful flowers that are bright + long lasting. These loyal + hardy flowers perfectly mirror your energy as a Leo. You love to bask in the spotlight, as the anthurium loves warm + bright spaces. Everyone loves a gorgeous anthurium!

GEMINI

VIRGO

IDEAL HOUSE PLANT - DR ACAENA

IDEAL HOUSEPLANT - LEMON

M A RG IN ATA

LIME DR ACAENA

The dracaena marginata is an exotic houseplant known for its thin, purple edged leaves.

This plant thrives in any light, but brighter light tends to bring out brighter colors, similar to how you enjoy being in the spotlight as a Gemini.

This plant is slow growing and reliable, and doesn’t mind medium or even dim conditions.

Like the lemon lime dracaena, Virgo can thrive almost anywhere, and is known to be diligent + consistent. Your perfectionism is mirrored in the plant’s symmetric + beautifully colored leaves.

CANCER

LIBR A

IDE AL HOUSE PL ANT - MA JEST Y PALM

I D E A L H O U S E P L A N T - P E A C E L I LY

Just like Cancer, the Majesty Palm loves water.

As long as you keep your soil moist, this tropical plant will thrive and add wonderful texture to your space. This plant is the perfect addition to the cozy, safe spaces that you crave as your personal sanctuary.

If there is one sign known to represent balance and harmony, it is Libra. You love to create equilibrium and calmness, similar to how the peace lily is able to filter harmful chemicals and purify a space. With beautiful white blooms and glossy foliage, the peace lily is striking in any space.

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M A S H mansion

apartment shack

house

Your favorite childhood game is back with a West + Main twist.

TO PL AY: DR AW A SPIR A L IN THE BOX AT R IGHT UNTIL YOUR FR IEND S A Y S S T O P. C O U N T T H E N U M B E R OF SPIR ALS. THIS IS YOUR MAGIC N U M B ER ! S TA RT IN G AT M , CO U N T OU T YOUR FAVOR ITE NUMBER AND CROSS OUT THE OPTION YOU L AND ON. CONTINUE UNTIL YOU H AV E O N LY O N E O P T I O N L E F T I N E ACH C ATEGORY !

H O M E L AYO U T

REGION

Single Level

Split Level

Mountain

City

Two Story

Condo

Beach

Rural

COLOR ACCENT

PLANT ST YLE

Blue

Pink

Floral

Succulents

Yellow

Neon Green

Vegetable Garden

Basic House Plant

PL ANT DECOR

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SPECI A L F E AT U R E S

Vase

Mason Jar

Park

Pool

Terrarium

Air Plant

Landscaping Service

Expensive HOA

NICE TO MEET YOU. People often ask, what does the name West + Main mean? To us, West + Main represents the balance between heart + home. It means unlimited inclusivity, unbounded by assumptions. It means that all are welcome + appreciated. And it means that we're here to help you make your dreams come true, regardless of price point or neighborhood. West + Main is where Real Estate meets local artists, activists, makers + doers, and where innovation + creativity are not stifled, but supported. What will West + Main mean to you? We're here to

WESTandM AIN .COM

WEST + MAIN HOMES Colorado, Oklahoma + Oregon (720) 240-4484 hello@westandmainhomes.com

THINKING ABOUT PLANTING SOME NEW W E C A N H E L P.

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roots?