Charlottesville HOME May/June 2016

HOME C H A R L O T T E S V I L L E

DESIGN

■

IMPROVE

■

GARDEN

■

LIVE

HISTORIC RIDGEWAY FARM

farmhouse makeover

DESIGN HOUSE 2016

TAKE IT

Outside

OUTDOOR ROOMS

GREAT GRILLING STATIONS

MASTERING CURB APPEAL MAY/JUNE 2016, VOL. 3, NO. 2

THIS IS HOW WE DO URBAN. Abundant acreage so close to downtown, you might consider it urban.

INTRODUCING THE RESERVE AT HYLAND RIDGE. Come see the convenience and beauty for yourself; seven elevated, wooded homesites ranging from three to 21 acres are tucked away on Pantops Mountain. All homesites have panoramic mountain views, with some

homesites overlooking downtown Charlottesville. Situated at the back of the picturesque neighborhood of Hyland Ridge—just minutes from downtown—this location is like no other. Build your new single family home with indoor air quality as fresh as the views—plus efficiencies that will

lead to lower utility bills for you. With our EcoSmart program, Southern Development’s homes undergo more in-depth testing than any other builder’s homes in the Central Virginia area. Peace of mind for you, our homeowner—and a piece of the Blue Ridge skyline too.

SOUTHERN DEVELOPMENT HOMES

EC SMART

STARTING AT $839,900 | SINGLE FAMILY | SQ FT 2,575 – 6,251 Contact Rebecca White at 434.995.5035 or rwhite@southern-development.com | southern-development.com

It’s Not Business.

It’s Personal.

Creating Opportunity and

Finding Insurance Solutions for

Businesses and Families

434.529.6000 - www.specializedins.com 2250 Old Ivy Road, Suite 5, Charlottesville

INSURANCE S

HOME C H A R L O T T E S V I L L E

DESIGN

■

IMPROVE

■

GARDEN

■

LIVE

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 2 T I L E R E S O U R C E & D E S I G N S H O W RO O M

PUBLISHER

Julie Pierce EDITOR IN CHIEF

Meridith Ingram CHARLOTTESVILLE EDITOR

Heather E. Towe ART DIRECTOR

Trisha Roth CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cynthia BeMent Mitzi Bible Lucy Cook Megan Hall Sloane Lucas Adrienne Mand Lewin Alyssa Mercadante Heather E. Towe Rory Rhodes Christy Rippel GRAPHIC ARTIST

434.964.4680 ■ 1226 Harris Street, Charlottesville VA Showroom Hours: 8-4:30 M-F (appointments encouraged) SARISANDTILE.COM

Amanda Adams PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Beth Moore PHOTOGRAPHERS

Providing all the services you need to create and maintain a beautiful landscape...

Virginia Hamrick Robert Radifera BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Pam Whorley ADVERTISING SALES

Native and Ornamental Plants & Trees Landscape Maintenance Hardscape Services Large Tree Spade Services

15111 Yager Road, Somerset, VA www.GRELENNURSERY.com

Nursery 540-672-5462; Tree Care 540-672-6655

Liz Houhoulis Janet Lampman Pam Whorley SUBSCRIPTIONS

Charlottesville HOME is published bimonthly

by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For an annual subscription, please send $20 and your name, address and telephone number to: Charlottesville HOME 2003 Graves Mill Road, Suite B Forest, VA 24551 For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@charlottesvillehomemagazine.com.

To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Charlottesville HOME at info@charlottesvillehomemagazine.com.

Providing Excellent Service Since 1991!

West Willow Publishing Group, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2016 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned.

As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

4 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

n EDITOR’S NOTE Do you get as excited as I do when May rolls around? It’s so full of promise—summer is so close we can taste it, school’s almost out, and it’s a month that contains Cinco de Mayo and Mother’s Day within the first few weeks! Though summer doesn’t officially begin until the end of June, I hope you’ll join me in my unofficial declaration that when the calendar says May, it’s time to party, summer-style.

In that theme, we present you with an issue of Charlottesville HOME that will help you get ready for outdoor fun. Be inspired to create an outdoor room, or enhance an exterior space you already have with simple, subtle touches that make it as comfortable and welcoming as your interiors. If you could use a dose of curb appeal out front, take our tips on creating a special garden around your mailbox. We also show you the best way to set up a grilling station that will make your next cookout easier and thus more fun—no more frantically searching for grilling tongs, running out of propane, or being stranded at the grill while everyone else gathers in the kitchen. And if your summer plans include taking it easy, consider outsourcing some of the chores and hiring a lawn service using our list of tried and true interview questions.

May is also the time to visit the Shelter for Help in Emergency’s Design House 2016, from May 7 to May 22; read all about it and make plans to attend! HOME magazine is proud

to support this cause because it is so inspiring to us—not only in the dazzling designs presented in this top-to-bottom home makeover, but in the way the community rallies behind it, from designers to craftsmen to volunteers to visitors … everyone comes together to support this community effort.

If this wonderful community is where you plan to call home for all your days, check out our special feature on retirement living. Learn how to plan for this chapter from local experts who show us that retirement living is all about living life to the fullest.

In that spirit, we hope you’ll be inspired by this issue of HOME to enjoy your home and this community to their fullest! Thanks for reading!

—MERIDITH INGRAM, EDITOR IN CHIEF meridith@westwillowpublishing.com

Your Builder of Choice

MODEL HOMES OPEN DAILY 12-5

434 .973.3362

CRAIGBUILDERS.NET c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 5

6 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

contents Ch a r l ot t e s v ill e H O M E M ay /J u n e 2 0 1 6

50

10

30

10 30 50

features RETI R EM EN T L I V I N G I N C H A RL OT T ESV I L L E

Communities that help seniors live life to the fullest

BY CYN TH IA B E M E N T

SHOW C A SE H OM E: RI DG EWAY FA RM

Renovated farmhouse is labor of love for the Gregg family

BY H E AT H E R E. TOW E

CREAT I N G A N OU T DOOR ROOM

Design a space outside where you can savor summer

BY R O RY R H O D E S

Cover photography by Virginia Hamrick at the home of Leslie and Dan Gregg

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Charlottesville HOME Magazine c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 7

Ch a r l ot t e s v ill e H O M E M ay /J u n e 2 0 1 6

departments 60

47

44

23

DESIGN

IMPROVE

GARDEN

LIVE

16 F U N , F UNKY PAINTS DIY paint projects never looked better

23 GE T GRI LLI N G Organize a grilling station for fun, efficient cook-outs

20 C U RB A P P EA L How to plant a mailbox garden

26 V I N TA G E G L A S S Capturing the charm of an era in today’s homes

BY S LOAN E LU CAS

BY M EGAN HALL

BY M ITZ I B I B LE

BY S LOAN E LU CAS

47 L A M P S HADES 101 Shedding light on replacement shades

60 C A L L I N T H E P ROS The best questions to ask when hiring a lawn service

BY AD R I E N N E MAN D LEWI N

BY C H R I STY R I P P E L

56 BOOK C LUB DI N N ERS How special meals spark great conversations

BY LU CY C O O K

44 OF F T O T HE R A C E S Celebrate Triple Crown Races in style

16

BY ALYS SA M E R CADANTE

S P E C IAL INT ER EST 6 2 D ES IGN F OR A CAUSE SHE Design House 2016 benefits the community

BY H EATH E R E. TOWE

66 Index of Advertisers

26

8 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

DOES YOUR HOME HAVE A STORY? We’d love to hear about it!

Charlottesville HOME magazine is always looking for beautiful, unique homes and inspirational renovations to feature.

A granite breakfast bar gets far more use than the couple initially thought it would. Five chairs fit around it easily, and it’s become a favorite place for the kids to hang out.

The walls of the Smiths’ master bedroom are what Jennifer refers to as her “Happy Blue”—otherwise known as Benjamin Moore’s Palladian Blue.

Tucked-Away Spaces

The Front Rooms

It’s a few steps from the dining room to the kitchen. A granite breakfast bar gets far more use than the couple initially thought it would. Five chairs fit around it easily, and it’s become a favorite place for the kids to hang out. The whole space, even on gray days, is filled with natural light from strategically placed large windows.

An eating area off of the kitchen features a Thomas Johnson table they bought at auction, and a customized chandelier made by an art gallery in San Diego scouted by Addison. The space is open to the family room; its focal point is a floor-to-ceiling rock fireplace, flanked by shelves that proudly display family photos. An oversized sectional is comfortable enough for the whole family.

The family room opens to the blue-ceilinged Trex porch that wraps from the side of the house around to the back.

Chippendale-style railings are fixed into columns wrapped in the 60

Central Virginia HOME Early Spring 2016

cvhomemagazine.com

61

Just off the great room is what the Smiths fondly call “the little library,” a cozy, wood-paneled room lined with bookcases. “To paint or not to paint, that was the question,” says Mathis. Jennifer really wanted to keep the warm wood tones, so to liven things up, they added plaid wallpaper and antelope-patterned carpeting.

Two leather chairs, an ottoman upholstered in a creamy houndstooth and soft, tailored drapes make this a spot where anyone would love to curl up. Tim’s an avid reader, and Jennifer says this room is his “ode to Thomas Jefferson.” A harness from Jennifer’s grandfather that would have been hooked to a horse and plow is alleged to date back to George Washington’s era, and has been cleverly repurposed into a mirror. A hole in the side “might be a bullet hole” according to family legend, she says.

The library leads to Jennifer and Tim’s master suite. Jennifer fondly recalls glass doorknobs throughout her grandmother’s home, which they have incorporated here. The walls are Jennifer’s “Happy Blue” – otherwise known as Benjamin Moore’s Palladian Blue. Plantation shutters provide privacy and light control. The custom upholstered bed, with sumptuous white and blue linens and an animal hide bench at its foot, is the place of respite from the rest of the world; off this room is also a secluded screened-in porch where Jennifer says she likes to sneak away and relax.

The master bath is U-shaped, with a doors to it on either side of the bed where Jennifer and Tim can each enter their own area. Here they painted existing cabinetry “as dark a gray as they would let me,” says Mathis with a laugh (it’s Benjamin Moore’s Chelsea Gray), and added new overhead lighting and mirrormounted sconces. A dresser in the middle delineates the space, overlooking a bay where a Jacuzzi tub was removed and replaced with a pristine white soaking tub. The shower was gutted and now features multiple heads, a steam feature, and tile work that is yet another example of Johnny Swaim’s artful expertise. The floor, which has the look of soft-gray reclaimed wood, is actually tile with a honed finish, to wear beautifully in a bathroom environment. White tile in a crisp herringbone pattern surrounds the tub area.

Just off the foyer is a formal dining room featuring a casualelegant design first inspired by the wallpaper—“Dotted Pirouette” by Candice Olson’s line for York Wallpaper. “I love blue—so Gary conceded,” says Jennifer. Mathis quickly adds, “It had to be the right blue.” The rug followed, and everything fell into place from there. An antiqued brass chandelier by Currey and Company with a farmhouse-style table, simple upholstered-backed chairs and a creamy sideboard create that signature blend of farmhouse chic. Here too Mathis altered what was a standard fireplace set on an angle into something with a lot more interest: antique corbels, a more generous mantel and added trim. He also found the perfect piece of furniture for an existing alcove—a display cabinet in dark wood featuring a mix of old and new cream porcelain pieces.

The dining room connects back to the kitchen through a butler’s pantry with a Fantasy Brown granite countertop, painted cabinets below and display cabinets above.

Across from the dining room, on the other side of the foyer is Jennifer’s office, painted in Benjamin Moore’s Nantucket Fog and accented with two inviting white and blue upholstered chairs facing a cheery white corner fireplace. To this Mathis added shiplap as well as a brick hearth and surround to add interest to what was a buildergrade fireplace. “This is where I sit with my coffee and watch the kids walk down the drive to the bus,” says Jennifer.

Here she can place her coffee cup on a table that belonged to her grandmother, for whom she holds a sweet nostalgia.

A weathervane on the hearth comes from Tim’s family – another nod to their love of the outdoors and cherished family history. Behind this seating arrangement is Jennifer’s desk, the wall behind it featuring two salvaged shutters and an eclectic mix of white plates and platters for a pleasing vignette. Of the shutters, Jennifer says, “Gary and I looked at each other and both agreed that we had to have those. We didn’t know where they were going, but we said—‘We’ll find a place!’”

30

Charlot tesville HOME Januar y/Februar y 2016

charlot tesvillehomemaga zine.com

charlottesvillehomemagazine.com

If you or someone you know has a story to tell about a home or project, please email editor@charlottesvillehomemagazine.com with all the details.

Upstairs Bedrooms

Stairs leading up from the great room are carpeted in a soft geometric-patterned runner, turning at a landing which boasts an 8-foot mirror flanked with long and lean sconces, allowing light to reflect in many directions. The upstairs hallway overlooks the great room, loft-style. Here is home to the latest acquisition: a mirrored cabinet to house the linens for the upstairs rooms.

Footsteps are cushioned with an antelope-print runner. The first bedroom you’ll encounter at the top of the stairs is a guest room, perfectly appointed with an upholstered bed and crisp white matelasse. Down the hall is another guest room, where Jennifer’s mother bunks when she comes to visit, lovingly dubbed “the Virginia room” with its cherry four-poster bed and rich navy and orange-toned bedding. This room shares a bath with the Smiths’ daughter’s bedroom—perfect for a young teen with its playful yet sophisticated corals and pinks, off-white furniture and framed art of her own making. Their son’s room too is outfitted for a teenage boy—navys and taupes, an en suite bath, and a large bank of metal-and-wood shelves to hold sports memorabilia and other boy treasures.

31

Golden THE

YEARS Understanding Today’s Retirement Living

BY CY N T HI A B EM EN TÂ

Weighing the option to move to a retirement community is one of the most important decision-making processes you’ll face, one that involves so much more than choosing floor plans and checking amenity lists. In Charlottesville, life is the operative word when it comes to choices for retirement living, with numerous options for living vibrantly while planning for future care as you age.

Though finding the right retirement community can seem like a daunting process and the options may at first seem overwhelming, making the choice to have choices by planning ahead and carefully working through the research process can put time on your side. Here, we talk with two area communities about retirement living in Charlottesville and give you some tips on planning this chapter of your life on your own terms.

1 0 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Ro sewo o d V ill a g e

Senior Living Today: More than Activities

Many retirement living communities today place their emphasis on creating mentally and physically active living rather than simply ways to pass the time. “Today’s senior living isn’t about people sitting around playing bingo,” says Maria Graham, marketing director for Westminster-Canterbury of the Blue Ridge (WCBR). “It’s about people living purposefully and being involved and engaged in their lives.” WCBR is a notfor-profit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) located on Pantops Mountain in Charlottesville and is comprised of independent living, assisted living, and long-term nursing and memory care.

Life-long learning is one of the focuses of the WCBR community, and together with the University of Virginia, it hosts on its campus many of the university’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute’s classes for older adults, some of which are taught by WCBR residents (recent classes on campus include Richard III in Shakespeare, Introduction to Genetics and Understanding the Gospel).

Rosewood Village, an assisted living community that provides multiple levels of care to its residents—ranging from assistance for basic activities of daily living such as bathing and medication reminders to its Innovations memory care program for Alzheimer’s patients— also focuses on enrichment at its two locations in Charlottesville, which were designed with resident engagement in mind. “We offer a unique, stimulating experience for our residents through our

village concept,” says Shareef Tahboub, Rosewood’s development director. “We created a main street that includes themed destinations so our residents feel like they have been somewhere special no matter where they go in our communities.” Each location’s village is designed to replicate living comforts that its residents have experienced throughout their lives, such as sunrooms, libraries, offices and resident kitchens. Residents can see movies and play video games in its movie theater and enjoy hair and personal care services in its beauty salon.

“A fun, stimulating environment can go a long way when it comes to improving a person’s quality of life,” Tahboub says.

Wellness is also a key focus of retirement living in 2016. “In the last five years, wellness has become one of the most tantamount things in senior living. It’s about how committed is that community to all the dimensions of wellness,” says Graham. Today’s seniors know full-well, she says, the importance of wellness in mind, body and spirit, and that if you don’t use it, you lose it. “What happens as we age has nothing to do with how old we are,” Graham says. “If you think about it, you probably know people in their nineties who are as active and vibrant as people in their sixties and seventies. The opposite is also true.”

WCBR’s campus includes a two-story fitness and aquatics center, with its own staff which specializes in the exercise and wellness needs of older adults. Housing two pools encircled overhead by a walking track, the center offers 30 fitness classes a week, and also offers massage therapy, physical therapy, personal

training and nutritional counseling, among other offerings.

Another area of increasing concentration in retirement today is in care for those affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s. “Unfortunately one of the changes we have seen lately is a rise in the need for memory care,” says Tahboub.

“It was only three years ago that we converted nine of our traditional assisted living rooms into memory care rooms at our community at the Hollymead Town Center due to the demand we were seeing,” she says. “We are very passionate about providing great care for our memory care residents and work closely with the Alzheimer’s Association to improve our staff training and to provide more resources to the families and loved ones of our memory care residents. That being said, we look forward to the day we get to reduce the number of memory care rooms we have at our communities.”

Rosewood’s Innovations program is specifically designed for residents needing memory care, giving highly individualized care and utilizing their village concept to provide safe, continual supervision and care while also encouraging both physical and mental exercise. Innovations staff members receive extensive specialized training in working with residents with memory care needs. This equips them to assist those residents not only with basic daily living activities, but also helping them to experience aromatherapy sessions, specially designed daily events and programs, walking outdoors on covered walkways and enjoying Rosewood’s outdoor gardens.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 1 1

When to Consider Retirement Living

While the right time is different for each person making the decision to move into a senior living situation, addressing it before you’re forced to gives you control over your choices and helps ensure you’ll be able to continue your current lifestyle now and into the future. You’ll also take the burden off of extended family members who might have to decide your living situation for you if something should happen to your health and you need continuing care. In short, construct a plan and communicate your plan to family members. “People plan their vacations, careers, even their families. You put plans in place for every other part of your life—why would you not put a plan in place for this most important part of your life?” says Graham. “Also, don’t you want to know where you’re going to go if something does happen?” Additionally, Graham points out, couples who are considering retirement living may benefit by making the move before it becomes necessary, in order to ensure that they can stay together—not be split up—if the need for an elevated level of care should arise for one partner in the future.

“We understand that the decision to move into assisted living is not always an easy one. We also understand that each person has a different perspective on why a transition to assisted living might seem overwhelming or challenging,” says Tahboub, who also points out that freeing oneself of physical or mental chores of daily life that have become overwhelming can actually enhance your lifestyle instead of restrict it. “For some people, moving to assisted living might represent a loss of independence, so we try to show them that by letting go of many of their current responsibilities at home, assisted living can help them become even more independent.”

We s t minis t e r- C a nt e r b ur y of t h e B lu e R i d g e

Ro sewo o d V ill a g e

Ro sewo o d V ill a g e

Ro sewo o d V ill a g e 1 2 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Look for the Lifestyle

Start by examining your current lifestyle and make a list of your preferences (location, transportation, proximity to other residents and to family members, layout of the grounds, ease of getting around the community on foot, for example) and personal passions. Then create a wish list of amenities you’d like in a community in order to replicate your current lifestyle—consider elements like varied dining options, access to nature, lectures, concerts, fitness classes, plenty of room for visiting grandkids, an active community social calendar. Use your wish list as a guide when considering amenities. Also look at each community’s health and medical care facilities for later stages of your life. Ask your family to help you research, and choose just a handful of communities (three to five maximum) to target to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Compare Services, Costs and Contracts

Next, begin researching which kind of community will best fit your needs now and plan for the “what ifs” of the future.

There are many variations on retirement living: for example, independent living can take place in a retirement community in the form of a rented or purchased property grouped together with other seniors, which may offer minimal services. Another option is the CCRC, like the one at WCBR, which combines independent living, assisted living and nursing home care on one campus, and offers progressive levels of care over time as residents age, assuring that they do not have to move if they need assisted living or skilled nursing home care later in life. Assisted living communities in which residents receive long-term personal care support (such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation and serving, and transportation) and nursing homes are common types of retirement living, each with their own breadth of residential amenities, care services, contracts (some of which vary by location and not just by classification) and fee structures. This is the time to examine costs and contracts; some communities require large fees upfront and life-long contract commitment; some offer more flexibility with monthly fee structures and yearly renewable contracts. Talk with family members if they are helping to finance your move. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 1 3

Ro sewo o d V ill a g e

DOWNTOWN 1617 Greenleaf Lane, Charlottesville

Under Contract in 16 Days!

Adorable, well cared for home in one of Charlottesville’s great, walkable neighborhoods.

Move-in condition and just steps from Greenleaf Park. Private, sunny lot with established plantings and a creek that attracts wildlife. Cellar storage area. Off street parking.

Convenient to The University, UVA Hospital, Barracks Road and Downtown.

Priced at $324,000 Under Contract in 16 days!

Call me today to buy or sell your home in Charlottesville!

Frankie Carl

®

757.773.0442

®

frankiecarl@gmail.com W W W. M O N TA G U E M I L L E R . C O M / F R A N K I E C A R L

We s t minis t e r- C a nt e r b ur y of t h e B lu e R i d g e

Experience Community Culture

After you’ve narrowed your potential community list, it’s time to go on campus and get a feel for each community’s culture, how they operate, its physical layout and how its services and amenities may support your lifestyle. More than one visit may be required for you to make a sound decision, so resist rushing yourself or being rushed by anyone else.

Immerse yourself in the community as much as you can. Take a class, walk their trails, ride their transportation system, eat in their dining rooms. Talk to current residents for their input on life in the community. Interact with staff members and observe how they communicate with residents and with other staff members, as well as how they are treated by their management staff. Ask if you can stay overnight in one of their available residences or rooms that offers similar amenities to the one you’re considering. Consider bringing your family members on your first or a subsequent visit so they can experience life in the community the way you will.

Once you investigate retirement living based on your interests, current needs, future care plan and budget, you can select the right community and plan for you with confidence that you’ll be able to continue and even expand your current lifestyle—not pack yourself away. You may even inspire others in the process.

“I learn life lessons from our residents every day,” says Graham.

“Seniors are an incredible group of people that can help make our society better. They can help us create a better life for not only ourselves but for generations to come.”

1 4 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Making the closing process easy & smooth for all parties involved.

About Us Reliance Title & Settlements, LLC has been in business since September 11, 2006.

The staff has a combined experience of over 73 years in the real estate business.

Closing Services Offered Residential | Commercial | Land Construction | Witness Only

Title Insurance Services Lenders Coverage | Owners Coverage

Reliance Title & Settlements, LLC Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday | 9am–5pm For more information, please contact

Amanda L. Harvey, Owner/Settlement Agent

117 Hexham Drive | Lynchburg, VA 24502 (434) 237-2702 | (877) 408-8011 | amanda@reliance-title.com

WINDOWS •• SIDING SIDING •• DOORS DOORS

FREE TRIPLE

PANE UPGRADE*

Awairndg!

W inn

*With Signature Series Gold Package

“Prior to selecting Window Depot, I met with several companies and the Consultant at Window Depot was by far the most knowledgeable and thorough with his presentation. He educated me on what to look for when comparing products and never pushed. He made my selection easy. The crew was courteous, professional, and thorough. They made sure I was completely satisfied with my replacements and they look great! We couldn’t be more pleased with their service, products, and our final outcome. Thank you Window Depot!”

-- Stacey G. Stanardsville, VA

10% OFF Everlast Composite Windows

Finally... The Best is Affordable!

charlottesvillereplacementwindows.com

Call Today for FREE IN-HOME Consultation

(434) 465-6558 Class A Contractor # 2705145469 One offer per household.

Expires 6/30/2016

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 1 5

t n i a p

n DESIGN UNIQUE PAINT TREATMENTS

PROJECT

A Guide to Fun and Funky Paint Options

BY S LOA N E LU C AS

When it comes to painting interior walls, home exteriors or even kitchen cabinets, an immediate list of steps come to mind.

Stripping old finishes, sanding, priming, multiple coats of paint, top coats—an exhausting proposition that might dissuade even the most energetic DIYers from taking on the task themselves.

What if you could make some small- and even large-scale design changes with paints that offer minimum hassle and maximum impact?

If your only familiarity with paint has been perusing the aisles of your local home improvement store, you probably think your only options are standard latex or oil-based paints, including all the prep work that comes with using them. But those aren’t your only choices.

One might say there is a “new generation” of paints to choose from, although some of the most popular paints today are simply resurrections of old options that have stood the test of time. Some are newer formulations that are seeing an increase in popularity.

So don’t be discouraged, and don’t be resigned to your current decor. Instead, read on for ideas to freshen up your home with ease.

1 6 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

create your own colors by buying and mixing different powders. The flip side is, you might discover you need to apply several coats to achieve the results you want. And it has a short shelf life—the powder only lasts about six months once opened.

■ Chalky

paint comes pre-mixed in a can, with a smooth, thick consistency. One coat might do the trick.

■ Traditional

milk paints are usually 100 percent natural, without annoying fumes.

■ Chalky

paints often have a latex base, so projects need to be done in ventilated areas.

■ Milk

SIM ILARITIES: ■B ecause

Milk Paint vs. Chalky Paint

These popular decor paints are available in vibrant modern colors as well as vintage hues, and, depending on the chosen application process, can be used to achieve a deep, velvety matte finish or a distressed vintage look.

Traditional milk paint has been around for thousands of years and, as its name suggests, is really made from milk, along with lime and color pigments.

The term Chalk Paint® is trademarked

by Annie Sloan, who developed it more than two decades ago. Today, there are many other “chalky paint” brands that mimic the same properties. The usual ingredients are latex-based paint mixed with a sticky base, like plaster of Paris.

You can find recipes online to make both paints yourself, or you can purchase them from various manufacturers.

However, they are often only available at specialty retailers, so do some research online first to see if any brands are available locally. If not, you can order online from various websites.

These two paints are very similar in their use and results, with a few differences that might make one more suitable than the other on certain projects, based on personal preference.

of cost, these paints may not be the best choice for repainting entire rooms. Instead, they are both excellent choices for breathing new life into furniture or smaller-scale renovation projects, like refinishing kitchen or bathroom cabinets.

■B oth

are very forgiving and allow for a lot of creativity. Brush strokes will level out so you won’t see distinct marks, and you can layer paint colors on top of each other to create tailored finishes.

■B oth

paints can be applied with either a brush or roller.

■F or

each, there is an optional step, which is to add a layer of either clear or tinted wax to the finished products.

This will make the finish last longer, especially on high-traffic areas like tabletops or cabinets.

■B oth

of them are fun to work with and give pieces an authentic, old feel.

DIFFERENCES: ■W ith

milk paint, you mix powder with water yourself, so you can control the thickness, allowing you to create everything from a stain to deeper colors. This also helps with cost control, since you only have to mix as much as required for each project. And you can

paints are extremely durable, but if you really want them to stick to plastic, metal or other non-porous surfaces, you need to mix in a bonding agent. You don’t have to paint an additional layer first. You just have to add the agent to the paint when you mix it. You can omit this step, but the coat will chip over time. (This can also be perceived as a labor-saving benefit.

While you have to manually sand pieces to make chalky paint look distressed, milk paint will self-distress.)

■ The

biggest appeal of chalky paint is that it sticks to pretty much anything, including plastic and metal. No sanding or priming. Literally, just slap it on. You can layer paint until a desired look is achieved. You can use a thinner coat to allow the original color of the surface to come through. You can paint multiple coats of one color or layer colors, and then sand when dry for a distressed look. Or you can paint multiple thick coats of the same color for a more polished look. Anything goes.

■ Milk

paint is unpredictable in how it will distress. Sometimes it grips really well and comes off in a fine powder.

Other times the paint cracks and flakes away, creating a chipped look. Some people enjoy the surprise in how it will turn out.

■ Chalk-type

paints stay where you apply them and really only come off where you want them to—by manually sanding. It’s easy to control the distressed finish.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 1 7

Whitewash

Sunlight gleaming off a bright white fence … a whisper of white streaks that lends a cozy, weathered feel to an interior room— both can be accomplished with whitewashing, a time-honored technique employed to decorate natural, porous materials such as uncoated brick, wood, cement and stone. It bonds tightly to these natural materials, allowing them to breathe and, to some extent, reinforcing and protecting them.

Whitewash, also called limewash, is a mix of water, salt and hydrated lime, the latter of which is available in bulk at home improvement stores. Ratios vary; you can find basic “recipes” online. Whitewashing is especially economical when tackling large-scale outdoor projects such as fences, brick facades of houses, garages, sheds or brick patios. If using inside, whitewashing is ideal for wood ceilings or brick—such as converting a loud, orangey 70s brick fireplace into a more subtle room centerpiece.

FABRICS UNLIMITED Your Locally Owned Decorating Source Since 1971

Celebrating 45 Years BETTER DECORATIVE FABRIC

THE AREA’S

Largest IN-STOCK SELECTION

• 1st Quality only at Discounted Prices • Knowledgeable Staff • Unique Sample Service (Try at home before you buy) • Decorative Trims • Drapery & Upholstery Supplies • Upholstery Foam • Custom Window Treatments • Custom Furniture • Custom Bedding & Pillows

Bring in this Ad for 10% Off

our regular discount prices on all in-stock decorative fabrics Excludes lining, vinyl, notions, pillows, foam & sale priced items Expires June 30, 2016 Rt. 29 North • 1 mile past Airport Road 434-973-5641 • Monday-Saturday 9:30-5:30

www.fabricsunlimitedva.com

1 8 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Understand, whitewashing can be labor intensive, depending on how big of a project you are planning.

Surfaces should be clean of dust, oils or grease, so powerwashing exteriors or wiping down an indoor fireplace is key. You will also need to dampen (not drench) the surface of any material with water just before you apply the whitewash. You will also need to keep stirring the whitewash during application to prevent the lime from settling and to keep the mixture even. Materials are easy to procure, though.

All you need is a bucket and a flat brush or masonry paintbrush.

Another key step with whitewashing is to remember the coat will appear clear when you first apply, but become more opaque when it dries. So try a test area first to see how many layers you actually need. Cover an area, let it dry for 24 hours, and then decide if you need more. Dampen the area again before you start layering another coat.

If using on exteriors, you may have to re-apply about every two years to maintain your chosen look, including washing down exteriors and brushing loose bits off before you re-apply. Or, just let it wear down naturally.

With these fun and forgiving paints to choose from, don’t just settle for the average selections of plain old paint. Take a look at all your options and decide if there are more creative, inexpensive or simpler ways to achieve your goal of refreshed decor, inside or out.

Transport Your Home into Spring Visit Grand Home Furnishings to shop this year’s top color trends

CHARLOTTESVILLE 1801 Seminole Trail (Rt 29) | 434.974.6480 | Open Every Day www.grandhomefurnishings.com

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 1 9

n GARDEN CURBSIDE GARDENS

Mailbox Gardens Create a special space for special deliveries

BY M I T Z I B I B L E Everyone loves to receive a personal greeting in the mail. There’s something exciting about opening up the mailbox and spotting a hand-addressed envelope from a relative or an old friend amidst those unwelcome bills. The mailbox is also the first thing your guests see as they approach your home, so why not make the space around it a personal greeting in itself?

If you think about it, there is probably no place on your property that is frequented more by a visitor than your mailbox. Six days a week, we depend on our friendly neighborhood postal carrier

stopping by. While your top priority should be to maintain your box, post, and land around it so that it is easily accessible for your carrier, you may also want to add curb appeal by sprucing up the space with plants or hardscapes.

A mailbox garden can be as simple or elaborate as you would like, just as long as it matches your style—and your level of devotion. If you have a long driveway, running a hose and sprinkler or irrigation system may not be possible, and you may not care to lug a watering can. In this case, choosing a few hardy perennials is best.

On the other hand, if you have a large front yard and are looking to cut down on some of the maintenance there, planning a big garden space around your mailbox with some mulch and attractive groundcover may actually help you out.

Whatever size you choose, it is important to note that your mailbox garden will need to meet all the challenges of a life on the street: motorists driving by, children running down the curb, deer paying a visit, and of course, dogs doing their thing. Here are some ideas for plants and hardscapes that are up for the job.

2 0 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Designing, Planting

The key to designing a small garden space around your mailbox is choosing plants that grow mostly up and not out. Be mindful of your postal carrier and don’t pick plants that spread too far or grow too tall. Make sure plants don’t cover numbers on your post or mailbox, and don’t impede raising the flag or opening the door.

Taller plants and bulkier shrubbery can play a role, though, if they are planted behind your post and serve as a backdrop for the shorter plants taking the stage out front. The taller plants could include everything from vines winding up a trellis (such as clematis), to an edge of boxwoods, to daylilies, iris, or any number of fuller and thicker ornamental grasses.

Many people choose ornamental grasses for their curbside gardens because they are mostly drought-tolerant, deer-tolerant, and don’t require much care. Because the mailbox is most often in full sun, the grasses will do well. At maturity, they will stay the same height so there is no pruning, and they create a nice contrast for your space. When choosing grasses, make sure you have a space that won’t be overwhelmed by them. They tend to look nice on a hillside, acting as a bridge from a sloping yard down to a road.

Though not an ornamental grass but often thought of as one, liriope (or lilyturf) is a good choice for a mailbox garden as it typically stays the same shape and size throughout its life and deer tend to avoid them. With purple flower spikes in late summer, they can add a splash of color, too.

Many bulbs generally are deer resistant, including daffodils, Dutch iris, and hyacinths. If deer are already a real problem for you, anything you put at the curb will be sure to attract their attention during their nighttime strolls through your neighborhood. If you are starting a new mailbox garden, you can train deer early by planting daffodils along with tulips.

If dogs frequent your post, consider shrubbery like barberry. The varieties with sharp thorns are a natural deterrent for dogs and deer alike.

Groundcovers that don’t spread too much can also be a low-maintenance option for a simple garden, such as phlox.

Servicing the Central Virginia Region for over 65 years!

alliedconcrete.com

Visit one of our showrooms today:

Charlottesville

1000 Harris Street 434.296.7181

Culpeper

16299 Allied Way 540.829.7868

Zion Crossroads

9815 Three Notch Road 434.591.0578

Open Saturdays starting: April 2nd—August 27th from 8:00am—12:00pm

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 2 1

Of course, if you want to add more color and don’t mind trekking out to the mailbox, you can plant annuals, but plan a regimen to phase them out as they begin to fade, replacing pansies with red salvia or white sweet alyssum, then adding mums in the fall. Your local nursery can advise you on which varieties will give you the longest run for your money.

To cut down on the maintenance, always remember to mulch well and use a newspaper or fabric underlay in your bed.

Boxing in Your Box

Choosing your edging is where you can really get creative with your garden design. If you don’t have a curb, you can use simple stones to outline a round or

square bed, being careful not to place them in the way of where you need to stand to open the box or where motorists, including your postal carrier, would be driving. You can also use the curb or street as one of the sides for a square or semi-circular space. Choose pavers or bricks—any hardscape that matches the style of your home. By stacking rock slabs, stones or pavers (in much the same way as a firepit), you can create a nice raised bed that will really set the stage for your mailbox as a focal point. If you have enough room and want to plan a larger garden, creating a low hedge with shrubbery in a semi-circle pattern behind the box can be equally attractive.

When you get to work on your garden, use that time to inspect your mailbox to see if it needs a fresh coat of paint, a new post, or a new set of numbers to identify your house.

Adding a beautiful garden space at your mailbox is an easy way to enhance your landscape year-round. Deliver on this project, and checking your mailbox for your own deliveries will be more enjoyable.

Southern Grace Gracing Your Life, Home & Garden

WE SHIP

www.stonegardenpottery.com

for garden pots, urns, benches, statuary and much more.....

www.boulderfountain.com

for stone & boulder fountains found no where else.

www.potteryfountain.com

for the most beautiful collection of urn fountains on the web.

www.boulderfirepits.com

our new fire & water combination features.

www.southerngraceva.com

is home base to link to all of these sites.

5309 South Seminole Trail | Madison, Virginia | 540-948-2239 2 2 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

n IMPROVE GRILL STATIONS

GRILL CENTRAL Set up the envy of all grill stations

BY M EG A N H A L L y childhood summers are defined by memories of an old charcoal grill, my ever-smiling father and a rainstorm that inevitably released its first drops as we stepped outside. My dad would forge ahead—not one to be deterred from cooking over an open flame—diligently manning the grill while I supervised from the safety of the garage.

With those memories standing prominently in my mind, I approach each summer with the anticipation of a small child on Christmas Eve—eagerly watching the temperatures rise and awaiting the first wafts of suntan lotion mingled with the heavenly scent of perfectly seared meat.

If you ask me, there is no better place to bond with family and friends than at a cookout. And, after nearly three decades below the Mason-Dixon, I can say with complete conviction that setting up the perfect grilling station is an art, and in some neighborhoods, an Olympic-level sport.

As you prepare to make your own memories this summer, I hope you’ll use these tips to ensure your setup will be a convergence of functionality and beauty that will make your barbecue area the toast of the town.

M

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 2 3

Crank Up the Tunes

Whether you’re flipping a single patty for a solo dinner or welcoming the better part of your extended family for an allday affair, every grilling experience deserves a soundtrack. If you don’t have an outdoor sound system, but you do have a lot of music on your smartphone (via iTunes or a music streaming app), a docking station is a great option. If you’re on a budget, or you’re in a time crunch, try this nifty trick: put your phone in a paper cup with the speaker toward the bottom. This simple change will significantly amplify the sound of your music. You can also use ceramic bowls and glass cups, but the paper cup allows amplification without distorting the clarity of the lyrics, which is critical to a good jam session!

Safety First

It can’t be overstated: Give your grill a good scrubbing before you crank it up for the first time. During those sad non-grilling months, it’s amazing the amount of gunk that can, and will, accumulate on your grill. You don’t want your food to taste like last summer, so take the time to clean it and check your equipment. If you’re using a propane grill, ensure there are no holes or worn spots in the hoses. Once you’ve eliminated the worst of the grime, turn your grill on high heat and close the lid.

This acts like the self-clean option on your oven, burning off any unwanted grit that didn’t respond to elbow grease.

Regardless of whether you’re a propane advocate or a diehard lover of charcoal, you’ll want to stock up on extra supplies.

Propane users are encouraged to utilize a gas monitor gauge.

This little gadget allows you to keep a close eye on the amount of fuel you have in the tank so you can avoid a heartbreaking half-

cooked burger. Charcoal users should have charcoal on hand, of course, and a method to light the coals. You can use lighter fluid or a chimney, which eliminates the flavor that can be left by lighter fluid. Chimneys can be lit with crumpled newspaper or paraffin lighter cubes (available at most hardware stores and online retailers).

The Grilling Station

We’re ready to talk about the foundation of any great grilling experience: the grill and prep space. This is where the magic happens so allow adequate room. Do you want your guests near you while you cook? Consider placing an outdoor dining table adjacent to the grill area. Do you typically cook in the evening? Snag a battery-powered grill light that clamps to the side of your grill (available in hardware stores and online retailers). You don’t have to have an expensive outdoor kitchen to be comfortable. Use your imagination—look around your house for underutilized pieces or visit your local thrift store for inexpensive finds. A simple potting bench can be placed next to a grill to create more prep space. A piece of lattice can be hung beside the grill for storage and organization—add a few s-hooks and buckets for perfect utensil and gadget holders. Outdoor storage ottomans make great places for storage (or a hidden cooler!) and allow for extra seating. Small fans help combat pesky bugs and also keep you cool while you master the grill. If you’ll have a lot of little ones running around, designate a spot a safe distance from the grill and install a chalkboard or a children’s kitchen so they can feel involved in the process. Make this an extension of your indoor living space— comfortable and functional.

2 4 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Accessorizing Your Space

An outfit is never complete without the perfect accessories, and the same applies to grill stations. Invest in a few key pieces to take your grilling to the next level. Cedar grilling planks are the perfect complement to fish. Toss your fish filet on one of those little planks, place it on the grill, grab a cold drink and wait. In no time you’ll unveil a masterpiece your guests will swear took hours to season. Spices are another great investment. Pre-made grilling blends can be picked up at your local grocery store, but sometimes it’s more fun to make your own.

Grab a small ramekin and experiment. For blends with a kick, employ options like cayenne pepper and Creole seasoning. For sweeter varieties, try mixing honey, pepper jelly and honey mustard. When you find the perfect creation, make a slightly larger batch and store it in an airtight container so it’s readily available for that inevitable lastminute cookout.

The most important part of a grilling station is the people around it. This summer, use your grill as a gathering place for family and friends—a reason to slow down and leisurely cook a meal among loved ones while making memories you’ll never forget!

Crosstown Sink

Y O U R H O M E S AY S A L O T A B O U T YO U .

W E ’ R E H E R E TO L I S T E N .

Your home is a reflection of you. Ferguson’s product experts are here to listen to every detail of your vision, and we’ll work alongside you and your designer, builder or remodeler to bring it to life.

Request an appointment with us today.

CHARLOTTESVILLE SEMINOLE LANE (434) 817-1775

HARRISONBURG FORBES CROSSING (540) 438-6400

FergusonShowrooms.com ©2016 Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. 0416 158229

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 2 5

n LIVE VINTAGE WARES

Capture the Charm of

VINTAGE GLASS

BY S LOA N E LU C AS

The thought of acquiring something whimsical, purely for fun, seems to fly in the face of our current era of minimalism. But there’s always room for a few items that simply spark joy. And one way to create a joyful table with color and charm is to augment your everyday dishes and flatware with vintage glass.

The term “vintage glass” really includes a range of timeframes and styles—from 1930s-era Depression glass, to mid-century modern barware, to 1970s kitsch. But all vintage pieces have one thing in common: they can elevate a mundane contemporary table setting into a fun-filled conversation-starter.

2 6 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

You can quickly assemble a wonderful assortment with minimal investment while also having a lot of fun. First, think about the place settings and linens that you already own and the color palette you already have to work with. If your everyday tableware is a basic white or even another solid color, start from there and think about complementary colors to match your dishes and any decorative linens you have.

Bear in mind that most vintage glass pieces you will find in antique shops or second-hand stores will be wine, water or cocktail glasses, as well as platters, candy dishes (which can double as serving dishes) and other servingware. Plates are harder to find. So you are looking for fun or funky pieces that will add subtle charm or pizazz to your existing dishes and flatware.

Once you have some colors in mind, seek out pieces that speak to you. The best place to start your acquisition of vintage glassware is probably in your mother’s or grandmother’s kitchen. Do they have some fun sets of glasses that they keep buried in their cabinets? Ask if they will let you have them. They will probably love to see them used. Or maybe you were lucky enough to have some passed down that you haven’t really considered using. Well, unpack those boxes and see what you have.

If you are like most people, you may have a few pieces here and there to start you off. Do you have a bowl of delicate green jadeite that you have always liked, but didn’t know how to showcase?

Perhaps some creamy milk glass that you always wanted to use but didn’t know how? Or maybe you have a funky amber glass chip and dip set from the 70s that you think is fun, but nothing else you have quite matches it? Start with those.

Then augment these with a selection that you can break out for dinner parties—or even build into a display when not in use.

Jadeite and milk glass are two of the more subtle styles that add a touch of low-key charm to your table. When it comes to color and “pop,” nothing beats Depression glass. While the name seems to indicate a specific era, the term is more colloquially used to refer to any colorful or cut glass that was popular from a range of eras, from before the Great Depression to long after (although later glassware would have been reproductions of original patterns).

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 2 7

Vo te d C vi ll e’s B es t A n ti q u e St o re

More than just a great furniture store 434-295-5760 1700 Allied Street near the McIntire Road interchange HOURS

Monday–Saturday 10–5:30 Sunday 1–5

www.circainc.com

MIL K JUGS BRA IDED RUGS S H A V I N G M U G S D E P R E S S I O N G L A S S ART GLASS DEPRESSING ART TRIBAL ART CAKE PLATES SILVERPLATE CHANDELIERS L A M P S S T A M P S W H A L E HARPOONS BRASS SPITTOONS C R A Z Y Q U I LT S C R A Z Y H AT S H AT R A C K S P A C K R AT S T O Y TRAINS WINDOWPANES TEA SETS F O N D U E S E T S C R O Q U E T S E T S STICKY WICKET S IRON PICKE TS LAMPS IN PAIRS GIFTS FOR HEIRS MARTINI SHAKERS DRINKMAKERS R U G S O F R A G S B E A D E D B A G S B R E A D B A K E R S B A K E R S R A C K S GUNNY SACKS GUN RACKS RACKS OF ANTLERS COW HORNS HORNS O F P L E N T Y P L E N T Y O F B R A S S BRASS BELLS DOOR BELLS DOOR KNOCKERS FOOT LOCKERS DOLL R O C K E R S D O L L C L O T H E S O L D C L O T H E S O L D W I N D O W S H O U S E S H U T T E R S H O U S E WA R M E R S B E D WA R M E R S H E A D WA R M E R S O L D H A T S M E N S S P A T S

AFFORDABLE ANTIQUES • QUALITY USED FURNITURE

Glasses, candy dishes and other pieces of servingware were often given away free as incentives during tough economic times—to lure people into buying a specific brand of oatmeal, for example. You can almost imagine how families would slowly acquire these colorful, sparkling items one at a time until they had a whole set, and how much joy and fun they added to dining tables during lean years.

Of course, the popularity of shows like “Mad Men” have also reminded us that having a nice set of “mod” cocktail glasses and pitchers is a great way to create a festive mood for a party.

So mid-century modern pieces and 1960s and 1970s items, with their muted greens and smokey blues, bright patterns or silver-and-gold designs, might fit better with your existing dishes. These also tend to include chip and dip sets, ornately designed platters and other fun serving pieces—making them perfect for entertaining.

Before investing hundreds of dollars buying a complete set of glasses or other pieces from an antique store, first buy a few pieces here and there to test them out. The best place to find vintage glassware at the lowest prices are local thrift and consignment stores and garage sales. Buy a few items in different colors and see how you like them. You may love a bright green candy dish in the store, but when you bring it home, it might not really go with your table. No worries. For the few dollars you spent, you can donate it back or pass it along to someone else who might like it.

As you start to browse for new-to-you glassware, you will naturally find yourself gravitating toward a color palette or design that speaks to your personal style and taste. You can

2 8 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

then have a lot of fun browsing for similar styles and colors online, and maybe even tracking down exact patterns or manufacturers you like. Some glassware will have marks—like a stylized L on the bottom for popular Libbey glassware from the 1960s and 1970s. Some you can tell just by the design.

You can easily upload an image of a favorite glass to Google Images. Google will scour the web and show you similar images, and you can click around to investigate what you have.

Frequent your local antique and thrift stores to add to your collection—and don’t be shy about asking the proprietors to see if they have additional items in back. No store can display all its wares, so even if the shop doesn’t have your pattern or color on display, see if they have any in storage. You will quickly find that dealers not only understand their customers’ love of vintage glass—they may also share it and be able to offer some fun history or information on your items. And if they know you are looking for certain pieces, they can also alert you when they acquire them.

The sooner you start using your new acquisitions the better.

Start with everyday family dinners and play around with place settings, mixing and matching. When you think you’ve got a truly eye-catching design, break it out for a dinner party. (A lot of Depression glasses are especially heavy and sturdy, making them an excellent choice for outdoor use in warmer seasons.)

Collecting vintage glass is a fun and inexpensive hobby that allows you to add unique charm and personality to your tabletops. Collectors will tell you that the only downside is finding enough cabinet space to store your newly acquired gems.

Dan MacDougall Tackle the Spring housing market with VHDA’s Down Payment Assistant Grant

Branch Manager I NMLS ID # 266414

434.760.1245

dmacdougall@embracehomeloans.com

Peter Cefaratti Sr. Loan Officer I NMLS ID # 208912

434.284.2121

pcefaratti@embracehomeloans.com

Are you looking to buy your first home? Embrace Home Loans can help. We can help you get FREE MONEY by utilizing the VHDA’s grant program.

Program details: • Grant can be up to 3.5% for VHDA FHA • Repayment is not required • Can be used for down payment only, not the closing costs • Cannot be used in combination with other down payment assistance programs • Eligible first mortgage must be locked before grant funds can be reserved • Mortgage Credit Certificate is eligible along with this grant Contact us today to see if you qualify.

Mike Ballew Loan Officer I NMLS ID # 1427487

540.292.5284

mballew@embracehomeloans.com

3510 Remson Court, 2nd Floor Charlottesville, VA 22901

Embrace Home Loans, Inc. NMLS ID # 2184 is licensed in VA. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 2 9

3 0 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Ridgeway Leslie and Dan Gregg’s home is a true labor of love

BY H E AT H ER E . TOW E P h ot o gr a p hy by V irg ini a H a m r i c k

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 3 1

As Leslie Gregg flips through the pages of her photo albums, she muses, “Taking care of a house like this really is a labor of love. You are constantly redoing things.” The albums, which catalog the renovations of Ridgeway Farm, span the 18 years she and her husband Dan have owned the property in central Albemarle County.

Discovering Buried Treasure

Leslie and Dan have been in Virginia 24 years, arriving in Orange as newlyweds so that Dan could start his tree nursery business, Grelen Nursery, now located in Somerset, Virginia. Here you will also find The Market at Grelen—a popular garden shop, casual café and specialevents venue, as well as walking trails and pick-your-own orchards—and nearby Spotswood Lodge, the Greggs’ charming farmhouse rental property.

Leslie says, “Dan loved the land. His grandmother had given him seeds when he was 13 and he loved to garden. His grandparents, who lived in Manhattan, had a farm in Orange, Virginia, called Grelen, which is a combination of his grandfather’s surname and grandmother’s maiden name put together: Gregg and Allen. He always wanted to move to his family farm.” Dan purchased some of the land from the family farm to start his nursery and they lived there for a year.

As the cattle farm had previously been a

vacation spot, they were the first people to live there permanently. Formerly in advertising and having lived in Chicago and Europe, Leslie says that the shift to Orange was quite an adjustment. Settling in Virginia, she decided to attend UVa’s Darden School of Business, so they moved to downtown Charlottesville for three years.

The Greggs stumbled on their beautiful home completely by accident. Their grand, pale yellow, two-story farmhouse with a walk-out basement boasts tall, original windows that open onto spacious porches with ornate white columns and wroughtiron railings, covered decks and gorgeous adjacent gardens. Leslie explains, “We were looking at a house in Stony Point that had been suggested to us by our Realtor. We didn’t like it, but on the way back to town, we passed by an old dilapidated FOR SALE sign at the end of a driveway and wanted to check it out.

I was in love immediately.” The house, which had been on the market for seven

years, was badly in need of repair and looked to the naked eye like a disaster.

Covered in waste, the house carried odors of neglect as well. However, Leslie could see the treasure beneath the trash. In addition to the house itself, she loved the large size, texture and feel of the windows that were original to the house. “It looked really scary to most, but Dan and I saw the house for what it could be,” she says.

Leslie loves to redo spaces and Dan had renovated houses in Baltimore, so they decided they were up for the challenge. They discovered that while the house clearly needed a facelift, the systems were in good condition. She says, “The previous owners had done a lot of the work that you don’t want to do. They had bought the house 10 years prior and had spent the first three years renovating. In doing so, they had updated the electrical and plumbing and had repaired some of the foundational issues. What was left was the fun stuff.”

When their friends and family viewed the property for the first time, they were worried. Leslie says that when her mother, who was a Realtor in Cincinnati, came over for the first time, she advised them to cancel the deal. She says that even a good friend who celebrated their new purchase with them and supported them confessed years later that, at the time, he thought the couple was insane for purchasing a house that needed so much work.

3 2 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

First Things First

Upon purchasing the house, they immediately brought in a cleaning crew.

For three days they emptied the junk and dirt that had accumulated in the house.

She says, “We removed most of what was in the house. The only things we kept from the owners who lived in the house before us were one chandelier and the tin ceiling in the kitchen. Everything else had to go, including dark Victorian wallpaper and fake plastic molding.” Before they moved in, the only structural part of the house they modified were the floors. Leslie had a decorative painting business, so she and her business partner, John Owen, who had painted Foods of All Nations and had taught her decorative paint technique, worked together to set up her new house.

The house was originally built in 1809 by Peter Minor, a friend of Thomas Jefferson’s. Originally Federal style, brick, bare and stately, the house was modified in the 1850s, when porches and peaks were added to the exterior. Evidence of the house’s history can be discovered throughout. There are working fireplaces, original to the house, in every room. The built-in cabinet in the dining room has Peter Minor’s name and “To Julia”, who was his wife, etched in the glass. When the Greggs moved in, this cabinet was painted black, a change they believe was made when the house was renovated in the high Victorian era of 1850s. They hired a professional, Michael Keith, to remove the black paint and restore the cabinet to its original style.

The house had some safety issues when they first moved in. There were no railings on the porches, and they wanted their three small children, Ali, Hank and Carter, to be able to run and play, so they immediately got to work installing railings to make the house safe for the family. As part of the porch project, they redid the front steps, which were cement block, ripping them out and replacing them with wood steps. Additionally, they replaced the entire porch ceiling and added a sleeping porch to the left side of the house on the second floor. Leslie says, “The house was not balanced. There was an addition on the right side that added to the second floor, but nothing on the left side. That bothered me.” The back porch of the house was dilapidated and they knew they would rip it out and restore it, but they made the area off-limits for awhile while they took care of the most pressing issues. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 3 3

A Series of Renovations

Leslie and her husband, over the course of nine years, renovated the house in several phases that seemed to roll from one to the next. When their daughter, who was less than 2 years old when they purchased the house, went to her first sleepover at age 4, she came home and told her mother in amazement that the other family did not have ladders everywhere. Leslie laughs and says, “Scaffolding was a permanent part of the house!”

After the porch work, the second phase of renovations modified a poorly constructed addition on the right side of the house, which had added bathrooms to the first and second floor, as well as a laundry room. Leslie says, “The addition looked crummy and was falling off the house when we bought it. We took down this addition and redesigned it and put it back on, adding a sunken garden (to create a workout room and office in the basement) and a porch on the top of the addition to match the porch on top of the sleeping porch. This addition on the right side of the house also includes our pantry, laundry room and master bath.”

The interior of the house was closed and dark when they purchased the property. As part of renovation, they expanded the living space, transforming an enclosed porch along the back of the house by rebuilding it and pushing out the walls of the house. They relocated the pillars of the porch, reinforcing them with steel, and reused the original windows along the newly expanded walls of the interior. They used reclaimed wood from Mountain Lumber Company to maintain the original feeling of the house. The end result cleverly conceals that the work is an addition.

The Greggs redesigned their house incrementally without the use of a formal architect. Floyd Hill, a contractor who specializes in old houses, brought Leslie’s visions to life. She says, “He’s great. I knew what I wanted and he knew how to handle the engineering. I didn’t have to give him specifics, and he was able to create what I wanted.” For example, he reproduced an original entryway and mimicked the design so the new door frames, when they expanded the interior of the house, matched the original design.

Also, when they rebuilt the back porch area, he knew they would need to remove the pillars and reinforce them with steel.

Mixing formal furniture with real life, Leslie transforms an inherited table by placing family photos under a layer of glass.

3 4 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Saving the Best for Last

The final phase of renovations updated some of the most-used areas of the house: the mudroom and laundry room downstairs, and above them, the master bath suite. Leslie says, “I know a lot of people like to get all the renovations done early. Sometimes it is better to live in a space for a while. We waited until year nine to redo our most utilitarian spaces. It allowed me time to really focus on how I wanted to use the space. Nine years prior, I wouldn’t have known what I wanted.” She says that she shared a bathroom with her daughter for years while they waited to work on the master bathroom. The master suite, now complete, has a seating area with a chaise lounge and modified claw-foot tub that look out floor-to-ceiling windows on two walls, dual sinks in a dark granite countertop resting atop hand-painted cabinets, his and hers closet areas, and a glass-door double shower. She adds, “One of my favorite things about the house is the bathroom with the view. We are early birds because of our careers, so we get to watch the sunrise every morning as we are getting ready.”

Downstairs, Leslie transformed what had been a bathroom and a small laundry room into a mudroom and pantry that demonstrate her keen ability to visualize what she wants in a space. The mudroom, in which she used theater seats recovered in leather, opens up to a massive pantry that contains a mixed look: modern white cabinetry with silver hardware and glass doors combined with wood countertops, patterned wallpaper, funky painted walls and floors, and a chandelier she designed using maroon- and mustard-colored beads. She says, “The old Grelen farm had a fun pantry. I knew I wanted to add one here.”

Leslie admits that she and Dan have personalities that can handle the chaos of updating an old house. “I am such a believer in taking the time to really enjoy the process. For me, the design portion is really fun. I love being able to imagine what it could be and making it functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The aesthetics are so important to me. I want to live in a place that feels really good,” she says.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 3 5

3 6 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 3 7

Almost all the furniture in the house is antique. Leslie says that she likes a mix of styles, using funky chandeliers, which you will find in every room, with vintage and distressed items.

3 8 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Decorating the Interior

Almost all the furniture in the house is antique. Leslie says that she likes a mix of styles, using funky chandeliers, which you will find in every room, with vintage and distressed items. She says, “It’s such a grand house. We didn’t want it to be too formal. We are blessed to have such beautiful pieces, and I wanted to ensure that we could use every room. I wanted my toddlers to be able to run around wherever they wanted.”

Many decorations and furnishings originated at the Grelen Farm. They stored tables for years in their barn in preparation for the renovations. When the family sold the farm, Leslie and Dan selected family portraits, which fit perfectly with the age of the home, to line the walls of their farmhouse. Leslie also decorates with her collection of silver, including a piece that was once owned

by Queen Charlotte, which has equally historical and personal value.

The kitchen is as eclectic as the pantry, mixing styles and finishes for a look that is truly unique: a large island with a Corian countertop serves as a breakfast bar which is lined with metal barstools, while across the kitchen, an original fireplace rests beside modern-looking light brown cabinets. When designing the kitchen, Leslie worked around the white Corian countertops, and updated by painting the cabinets black. As she tells it, she hand-drew her ideal chandelier, and two days later, she walked into a vintage store off Main Street and saw the chandelier she had envisioned. Once she had it wired for electric and fitted with hooks for her kitchenware, it was ready for perfect placement above the center island. Leslie loves to decorate with bird houses and cages. She also displays a painting of local artist Cynthia Burke.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 3 9

Garnishing with Gardens

When the Greggs purchased the property, the exterior of the house needed just as much updating as the interior. The trees around the house had overgrown so much that views of the mountains had been obscured. A nursery owner and tree expert, Dan removed scrap trees and overgrowth to reveal magnificent views while maintaining the integrity of the natural growth.

In front of the house, they regraded what is now the circular driveway and parking area with the help of landscape architect John James of Orange.

Dan, who naturally loves trees, began to plant trees as soon as they moved in. In their gardens you will find a vast assortment, including 100+-year-old specimens planted by the Minor and Blue families in the 19th and early 20th centuries complemented by a collection of younger trees selected from the Greggs’ nursery. Whether it is the magnolia grove comprised of 11 different cultivars and varieties of magnolia trees, the stroll garden consisting of many 20-foot-tall specimens of weeping conifers, or simply the grand size of the 20-foot-tall American boxwood maze, you are sure to encounter plants rarely found in local gardens. Dan says, “Leslie and I love our trees; we enjoy walking through the property observing the many different characteristics of each tree and how those features change throughout the seasons. Trees add so much interest to the garden; whether it is the spring bloom, summer fragrance, fall color or winter bark features, trees provide reasons to lure us into the garden year round.”

4 0 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

In the Greggs’ gardens you will find a vast assortment, including 100+-year-old specimens planted by the Minor and Blue families in the 19th and early 20th centuries complemented by a collection of younger trees selected from the Greggs’ nursery.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 4 1

Delights abound at every turn at Ridgeway Farm, including lush plantings, breathtaking views, and artistic touches inside and out.

4 2 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Echoes of Thomas Jefferson

Only four families have owned the Greggs’ house since it was built in 1809. Even though it has undergone many changes, the Greggs have labored with time and love to ensure that their house maintains its historic feel and style. Leslie and Dan have brought new life into an old house.

Leslie’s passion for decor is evident in the interior designs, from the large renovations to the decorative paint that appears on the floors and cabinets. Her unique taste and passion for preservation can be found outside on the porches as well. Turquoise vintage doors, acquired at Pickers Paradise, a big show at The Market at Grelen that she holds with Shabby Love, a store in Orange, serve

as window decorations, posing as shutters. Nearby, old turquoise garden stools, which she discovered at Leftover Luxuries, add interest, extra seating and pops of color to the vintage porch.

With Dan’s love and knowledge of trees, they transformed their farmland and restored old gardens that were hidden beneath overgrowth. Amid boxwoods from Jefferson’s time, Dan unearthed an 18-inch-deep pattern in brick from the 1800s. He kept the original pattern, layering stone above it.

You can almost feel Thomas Jefferson’s footsteps in the hardwoods as you look out the house’s original windows at the breathtaking views of the gardens.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 4 3

n LIVE TRIPLE-CROWN FUN

OFF TO THE RACES Hosting a horserace party

BY A LYS S A M ER C A DA N T E

Horses, roses, big hats and bourbon—all represent one of America’s long-standing traditions, the Kentucky Derby. On the first Saturday in May each year (this year, it’s May 7), 20 horses compete in front of a crowd of 155,000 people at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. One of the most prestigious horse races in the world and often called “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the Kentucky Derby is the first race within the Triple Crown, where it is followed by the Preakness Stakes race (May 21) and the Belmont Stakes (June 11). All three of these events provide great excuses for throwing a party—and you don’t have to make a trip to Kentucky to experience the festivities. Hosting a watch party for one of these races, complete with themed food, cocktails, decorations and games right in your home, is both easy to put together and tons of fun.

4 4 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Themed Appetizers, Classic Cocktails

Think finger foods and Southern charm.

A platter of deviled eggs topped with bacon crumbles is quick to make and easy for guests to grab. Chunks of fresh watermelon are cool, refreshing, and a perfect Southern snack. For a Derby Day classic, bake frozen biscuits and fill with slices of country ham. Set out a variety of flavored butter and mustard blends for guests to dress their biscuits. Add in some seafood options with an herbed shrimp dip, made with chopped shrimp, sour cream, mayonnaise, scallions and a mix of spices—or perhaps some mini crab cakes. Be sure to finish things off with dessert; try your luck at some cute horseshoe-shaped sugar cookies or a big, gooey chocolate-bourbon pecan pie— the quintessential Southern dessert.

(See sidebar for recipe.)

Wet everyone’s whistle with some simple but tasty drinks. Combine Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka with lemonade for an instantly delicious cocktail or whip up a large pitcher of sangria. Set out pitchers of lemonade and sweet tea individually for

some non-alcoholic options. Mint juleps, the traditional drink of choice at the Kentucky Derby since 1938, are of course a must. Did you know this refreshing cocktail actually originated in Virginia and was popularized in Kentucky? Up this classic’s game by spiking it with a homemade jalapeño simple syrup. To make this, combine a cup of water, a cup of sugar and one jalapeño cut lengthwise over high heat and bring to a boil.

Remove from heat, steep for 20 minutes, then strain and discard the jalapeño.

Dress Code and Derby Decor

The Kentucky Derby is a chance for every woman to express her inner Southern Belle with cool and colorful sundresses and of course the big statement piece: the Derby hat. This can be simple or grand, adorned with flowers or feathers—just make sure to have one perched atop your head. Let guests know how formal or informal they should dress. A sit-down meal, for example, would be a little more formal than a backyard party. And men can get just as dressed up as the ladies.

Polos and button-downs in pretty pastels

paired with plaid or striped pants is a great look for fellas wanting to get decked out. Since Derby headgear is not as popular for men as it is for women, their look can be pulled together with an eyecatching tie or bow tie.

Since the Kentucky Derby’s nickname is the “Run for the Roses,” use roses as your go-to decoration. Rose and boxwood topiaries make great centerpieces or tabletop decorations. Fill traditional silver julep cups with red roses for a more small-scale arrangement. Trophy cups can also be used as centerpieces and filled with red roses. Let loose rose petals spill over and scatter them around the table and elsewhere. Hang sparkly gold streamers that will instantly pop when placed near those vibrant red roses. Use brightly colored tablecloths and napkins to tie in the colorful uniforms associated with the jockeys and horses. Hang blue winner’s ribbons along the tables or walls, or use them as place cards with each guest’s name written in the center of the ribbon. Set out mason jars with cute straws for guests to grab and fill with their beverages of choice.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 4 5

Games and Activities

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups chopped, toasted pecans and 1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels evenly onto the bottom of a refrigerated, pre-made pie crust.

In a large saucepan, stir together 1 cup corn syrup, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup brown sugar and ¼ cup of bourbon and bring to a boil. Cook for 3 minutes, then remove from heat. Whisk together 4 eggs, ¼ cup melted butter, 2 teaspoons cornmeal, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Combine with hot corn syrup mixture, whisking constantly, and pour into prepared pie crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is puffed.

Cool for about an hour before serving.

ACCESSORIES, SHOES, SPORTSWEAR, SPECIAL OCCASION

Adapted from Southern Living

Follow these guidelines and you and your guests will feel like you’re truly a part of one of America’s most beloved traditions.

Before your guests leave your party, see them off with a Derby party favor. Mini bottles of Maker’s Mark whisky for the men look adorable and are distilled just south of Louisville. For the ladies, leave them with small potted plants of mint so they can go home and make their own juleps. And they’re off!

BOUTIQUE 16940 Forest Road in Forest 434.525.7503 | thecolumnsboutique.com

4 6 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Accessories, shoes, sportswear Special occasion

Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie

The actual race only takes two minutes, so be sure to plan a few games and activities for before and after the main event to keep your guests entertained. Since the ladies will already be asked to wear hats, encourage creativity by offering a prize for best hat.

Have guests vote once everyone arrives and award the winner with a homemade pie or bottle of bourbon. Other contests can include “Most Creative Hat” or “Best Dressed.” Before the race starts, write each horse’s name on a piece of paper and place in a hat. Let each guest draw a name out of the hat to cheer for.

Give the winning lady a pretty scarf as a prize and the winning fella a cute tie or bow tie. Cash prizes are always a hit, too! If you and your guests are in to betting, create a sheet with a list of the horses’ names and boxes for guests to write in their names.

Tell them they can choose however many boxes they want at $2 (or whatever amount you want) per square. Those who bet on the winning horse get to split the pot. Play the song “My Old Kentucky Home” and help guests learn the words and sing along. Set up a game of horseshoes outside that both adults and children can play at their leisure. Create a “Pin the Tail on the Champion” game that would be great for kids as well.

n DESIGN LAMPSHADES

and

Light Bright Shedding Light on Lampshades

BY A D R I EN N E M A N D L E W I N

You spot it across a crowded discount-store aisle: the lamp you’ve been looking for, the one that will complete your room, at half the designerlookalike’s price. Back at home, you place it just so, turn the switch and are thoroughly disappointed by the sickly light that emits from its cheap lampshade. Or perhaps you’ve inherited a lamp you’ve always admired from a doting aunt. But once you get it home, it looks dated in your house and its shade seems dull.

In cases like these, there are endless possibilities when it comes to buying a replacement lampshade that freshens the look and fits your personal style. Knowledgeable professionals at lamp stores or even local designers can help. And with a few basic design and functionality rules, the perfect look for any room is simple to achieve.

“When you’ve chosen the right lampshade and finial, you want [your lamp] to be a very beautiful and very attractive piece in its entirety, as one thing, as one object,” says Laurie Holladay, owner of The Laurie Holladay Shop in Gordonsville.

Shape

While there’s always some wiggle room in choosing a shade for a lamp, there are a few basics to keep in mind. The shape of the lamp (square, round, or one that features multiple shapes) should match the shape of the shade. (Generally, either shade design—round or square—works for a lamp that incorporates multiple shapes). Similarly, if a lamp is straight, go with a shade that incorporates edges. Curvy lamps get curvy shades.

Intricately designed lamps should have simple shades, while a basic base deserves something more interesting up top.

Then there are the myriad shapes to choose from: bell, drum, square, octagon, barrel, empire (narrow at the top, wide at the bottom) and others. Bell shades generally fit with a traditional design scheme, while drums lend themselves to modern interiors. Bell shades shed light between the top and the bottom, empire shades illuminate mostly from the bottom while drum shades provide a medium amount of light from both ends.

Though there are guidelines, there are no hard and fast rules, according to Holladay.

“It’s by eye, it is by just trying,” she says of the lampshade selection process.

“If you have lampshades that are unrelated to the lamps on which they sit, your eye then is so distracted. Walking into a room, no matter how exquisite the room is, no matter how beautifully it’s been decorated, if it’s not properly fitted the eye goes to a sea of lampshades.”

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 47

T h e L aur i e H o ll a d ay S h o p

T h e L aur i e H o ll a d ay S h o p

T h e L aur i e H o ll a d ay S h o p

A New Trend In The Lampshade World Is Custom-Made Chandelier Surround Shades.

These Typically Are Round And Mostly Cover The Chandelier For A More Modern Look.

Purpose

White shades are best at lighting an entire room, while darker ones tend to funnel the light and make a more dramatic statement. When it comes to fabric, follow the generally accepted truths that silk is more formal than linen, textured materials or parchment shades.

You also should consider the purpose of the lampshade and base you are looking to purchase. Will it provide ambient light or simply be an interesting design piece? Will it be used as an accent, or for a specific task, such as reading? Task and ambient lights require broad and translucent shades, while decorative and accent lights can be colored and opaque.

A new trend in the lampshade world is custom-made chandelier surround shades. These typically are round and mostly cover the chandelier for a more modern look. They can

be translucent or colored—really anything you would like to complement the room. They can transform a tired, standard brass chandelier into something much more interesting and modern, making them a good fit for transitional interiors.

Proportion

To avoid an awkward look, choose a shade that is in proportion to its base.

A rule of thumb is that a lampshade should be 2 or 3 inches shorter than its lamp, and only half an inch of the connecting lamp neck should be visible. You never want to see the mechanics of the lamp near the bulb at eye level, so consider that when you place lamp. Generally, a proportionate look includes a shade that is two-thirds the height of the lamp and half an inch wider than the base’s thickest part.

Freestanding floor lamps provide other challenges. Due to their height, empire shades tend to look best and they should be tall enough to stay in proportion to the large lamp base.

To hold their shape, lampshades have either a metal framework or a hard—usually plastic—lining. These prevent light from passing through the sides of the shade. If you are looking for more ambient lighting, choose a soft-backed shade whose lining is flexible (typically linen or paper). These diffuse more light but need vertical supports on the lamp to retain their original shape.

4 8 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Extras

T h e L aur i e H o ll a d ay S h o p

When you want to add a little personality to a lamp or shade, add an ornamental finial that sits atop the lamp and holds the shade in place at the top. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles and can be inexpensively changed to match the new tone of a room when redecorating.

“The finials are critically important because they really are the element that does make the lamp,” Holladay says. “[A finial] solidifies the proportion. It brings some of that color perhaps to the top of the lampshade, or a certain pattern repeat, or suggests that pattern in the finial.”

Something less fun but just as important to consider is safety.

Lamps that use high-wattage bulbs create more heat and need more ventilation from large, wide shades. The best way to figure out the required area is to measure the distance between the light bulb and the inside of the shade and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on maximum wattage. The area can be as small as 2 inches or as large as 4 ¾ inches.

You can also determine this by turning on the lamp for five minutes and feeling the top of the shade. If it’s hot, you need a shade with a wider opening.

Whatever your mission when purchasing a new lampshade, follow these guidelines and your room will emit a welcoming glow for all who enter. And trust that while guidelines are indeed helpful, one-size-advice does not fit all. “By trying different shapes on a particular lamp, I think it becomes much more obvious what works the best,” Holladay says. “I always tell everyone to trust your eye. What is pleasing, what is not pleasing, what looks too big, all of those questions are kind of in our own vision.”

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 4 9

Creating an Outdoor Room Function, Form and Fun

BY R O RY R H O D ES

S

ummertime is made for outdoor living.

Whether it’s a cup of coffee in the morning sun, an afternoon in the shade with lemonade and a good book, or dinner under the stars serenaded by crickets and cicadas, these long summer days and languid twilights entice us to spend time relaxing with Mother Nature.

Creating an inviting “outdoor room” allows you to enjoy al fresco time in comfort. Whether it’s right outside of your sliding doors or a destination down the garden path, an outdoor room is more than just a patio with chairs; it’s an exterior space that feels like an extension of your home.

An outdoor room can be big or small, grand or simple, as long as it’s a place that seems both intentional and inviting.

Picking the Perfect Spot

Screened porches, verandas and covered patios, pergolas and gazebos are all natural spots for an outdoor room. They provide shade and shelter, as well as define the parameters of the outdoor room.

If you have one of these features on your property, chances are it’s already at least basically outfitted for outdoor time.

You can also create an outdoor room on an open terrace or patio by framing the space yourself. If shade is desired, you can purchase a metal garden gazebo or shade sail for the season, or even build a basic pergola.

For long-term goals, wooden pergolas look wonderful when softened by a climbing vine such as clematis, wisteria or climbing rose. If you prefer not to use a manmade structure, small trees planted near the edge of a terrace can also be your “roof.” Crepe myrtles offer summer flowers and an arching shape that works well for an open-air room, while Eastern redbuds are relatively fast growers with heart-shaped foliage. A simple shade solution for smaller spaces is a market umbrella, which these days are readily available in an array of colors and options. Along with the traditional style, market umbrellas can be square or rectangular, tiltable, feature built-in lighting, and come with different stands for various furniture arrangements.

Cantilevered or offset umbrellas are a good option for a seating group, since the base can be placed behind the furniture instead of in the middle of the action. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 5 1

Defining the Space

Part of what gives an outdoor space the feeling of a “room” is the illusion of having at least one wall or boundary. If your outdoor room is against your house, you’re probably all set. But if you’re creating a space that is free-standing, there are several options.

Large potted plants are a great way to define the borders of your space. Use them at the corners, or several in a row for a living wall. If you have, or can install, a low retaining wall, it will both define the space and provide extra seating. An outdoor rug will make the space feel like a designated gathering area, and anchor your outdoor furniture. You might also be able to play around with your furniture placement to create a sense of boundaries.

Try out a couple of different options and see which arrangement feels right.

Privacy

711 Preston Avenue, Charlottesville,VA 434.245.5216 | www.wainwrighttile.com |

Whether your outdoor room is covered or open air, privacy can be a factor. If additional privacy is desired, some of the features that define your space can serve double duty. For open air spaces, foliage is your friend. Small trees and hedges will provide a wall of greenery, as will those large potted plants. Banana plants and hibiscus impart a lush, tropical feel, while Italian cyprus, dwarf spruce, or sky pencil holly offer a more structured, formal look.

There are modern updates to that old privacy standby, lattice, that can work for both structures and open spaces. “Square” lattice, as opposed to the traditional diamond style, is a fresh, tidy look that offers privacy and diffuses light without overly darkening the space. Try framing out individual panels of lattice, which can then be hung from a beam or built on a stand.

5 2 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Using a free-standing screen offers the additional bonus of moving it when and where it’s needed. A privacy screen made of horizontal boards looks modern and clean, and using reclaimed lumber will give it rustic charm. Shutters can also be mounted into a frame—paint them a fun color for extra interest. Outdoor roll-up woven blinds and curtains are easy and attractive options for spaces that have a beam or pole for hanging. A fun variation you can do yourself is to use industrial pipe for rods, and canvas drop cloths for curtains.

Attach the curtains to the rods with large curtain ring clips, and use jute rope for tiebacks. It’s an affordable option that adds effortless style!

Function, Furnishings and Fabrics

Once you’ve established the basic requirements and parameters of your outdoor room, it’s time to talk tables and chairs. Before you outfit this room, decide what you want to do there. Do you picture it as a place to eat meals, which will require a dining table and chairs? Is it going to be a place for visiting that will need a good seating arrangement? A place to relax, with a hammock or swing? A place for barbecuing, or entertaining? If you’ve got the space, it’s likely that your outdoor room will fulfill more than one of these functions, so here’s where scale matters. If you’re working with a large blank canvas, you can divide it into zones, such as a space for grilling and eating, plus an area with conversational seating like patio sofas and chairs. Chunky, rattan-framed furnishings can help fill up an expansive space, while a bistro table with two chairs might fit perfectly into a private nook.

Grow some REAL green this year...

save up to 60% on your energy bill & earn a 30% Tax Credit NOW!!!

Airflow and Water Furnace can help you turn your backyard into a renewable energy source. Thru December 2016, get a 30% tax credit on any Water Furnace Geothermal System.

Call for your FREE energy saving consultation today.

Learn more about Geothermal at: www.airflowhtgair.com/services/ how-geothermal-works.php

434-979-4328

w w w. a i r f l ow- hva c. co m Improving your comfort since 1988!

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 5 3

S

C

O

T

T

WEISS A R C H I T E C T TELEPHONE OR TEXT: 434.242.9288 EMAIL: SCOTT@WEISS-ARCH.COM WEBSITE: WWW.WEISS-ARCH.COM

With the outdoor room’s size and function in mind, you can have fun with all of the outdoor fabrics that are available. Indeed, an outdoor rug will help define the space, but can also provide an extra dose of color and style. There are a multitude of colors and patterns that are available both in stores and online, so no longer are you limited to monochromatic beige. Play with stripes, chevrons, trellis, kilim and floral patterns if you feel inclined.

Outdoor throw pillows can pick up accent shades from a colorful rug, or continue an indoor room’s color palette, blending the inside with the outside. It can also be fun to use outdoor fabrics to provide a contrasting punch to your adjacent indoor theme.

Gray-toned interiors get a lively boost from yellow- or red-toned outdoor touches; almost any shade of blue looks great when paired with a cheerful pop of coral or orange. An outdoor room is a great place to go bold or introduce a fun color. Let your creativity flow!

Light up the Night

COMING THIS SUMMER...

COMMONWEALTHGAMES.ORG

While shade is important on sultry summer days, don’t forget the need for a bit of lighting on those starry nights. There are plenty of glamorous outdoor chandeliers and high-tech garden lighting options available if you’re interested, but you don’t have to break the bank here. Budget-friendly options like twinkle and strand lights provide a romantic, bohemian feel. If you lack imagination and don’t mind the smell of citronella with your bratwurst, line your deck with some clamp-on torches from the garden center.

Outdoor chandeliers don’t have to be hard-wired; some of the most enchanting pieces feature candles arranged in everything from antique wrought iron to mason jars and reclaimed wood. A funky old chandelier from an antique or thrift store can be easily repurposed for a unique feature. For exotic, Old World glamour, hang a cluster of Moroccan lanterns at varying heights from a beam or tree branch. They come in an array of shapes and colors, and those with pierced metal housings will cast gentle, intricate patterns on nearby surroundings. There are also tabletop versions of such lanterns, as well as more traditional options like hurricane lanterns framed in metal, rattan, or even rope, which convey a clean, modern feel.

Remember that, while light is useful, there can also be too much of a good thing. You want a soft glow rather than a deerin-the-headlights ambiance, so eye-level lighting that has some sort of shade, or a frosted or colored housing, is always a good choice. Using a low-intensity option, such as a small votive or battery-operated candle, is easy and inexpensive. Don’t forget that solar lights are hard to beat for convenience, and come in more options than ever before. You can use solar spotlights at the corners of your outdoor room or pointed up at nearby foliage, which will provide pleasing ambient illumination as well as highlight the features of your space.

5 4 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Focal Points and Fun Extras

So you’ve got all the essentials for an outdoor room—what can you do to take it to the next level? For many outdoor spaces, a fire feature is the natural focal point. A wood-burning fire pit, whether built-in or simply a large metal bowl, is affordable and fun. Installing a gas fire pit costs more, but offers smokefree fire at the flick of a switch. Fire pit tables are popular and chic, and do double duty for holding food and drinks.

Outdoor fireplaces are a welcoming accent to patios, and can also be wood-burning or gas. Some even have built-in pizza ovens or TVs—definitely a “wow” factor! A ceiling fan is a nice extra if your arrangement allows for it, both for the cooling breezes and for keeping flying bugs at bay. A water feature, such as a small pond or fountain, is relaxing and also good for providing white noise where needed.

Finally, don’t forget about purely decorative touches.

Fun or personalized signs, wall planters, interesting architectural pieces of wrought iron from an antique or salvage shop, statues, or even a unique piece of metal garden art can all add a bit of whimsy to an otherwise conventional space. You never know—that three-foot-tall metal rooster you’ve driven past at your local garden store could be the talk of your next barbecue!

Putting together an outdoor room allows you to expand your seasonal living space, enjoy the outdoors in comfort, and have fun decorating. A little forethought, a few essentials, and a touch of imagination can create a retreat to beat the heat, or soak up the sun, as you choose. With the right outdoor space, come summertime, the living really can be easy!

s s e l e m i T CREATE SOMETHING

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 5 5

Easy Dinner, Great Conversation

n LIVE BOOK CLUB DINNERS

MEALS TAKE A PAGE FROM BOOK CLUB SELECTIONS

BY LU CY CO O K

S

everal years ago, after hearing the fun that everyone was having, I joined a book club. I love the diverse group of women in the group and the interesting books that we read. My book club doesn’t do dinner, although I love the idea. (I did host my book club for dinner once, but I was testing a recipe for a HOME article, and I used them as guinea pigs!) If I did it again, or we started serving dinner, it would be fun and interesting to have the meal relate to the book in some way.

With the thought of food and literature in mind, I marched myself straight to the source. Who knows more about books and book clubs than those who work in a bookstore? I had a great conversation with Angie Fleming at Givens Books this week about food and literature. We decided there are generally four categories of things to serve at book club that add context to the discussion in some way. The first would be food that is actually mentioned in the book (unless you’re reading about zombies!). Of course there are obvious choices like chocolate pie to accompany a discussion of The Help by Kathryn Stockett (please, no secret ingredients!) or Chocolat by Joanne Harris—that menu would be delicious! I recently read Things I Never Told You by Celeste Ng, which would lend itself to serving Hamburger Helper, TV dinners, (better, gourmet versions, of course!) or one of the other

meals that the author describes eating in the book. A second way that a dish could relate to a book is through the time in which it takes place. For example, say the book is set in the Golden Age of Hollywood like All the Stars in the Heavens by Adriana Trigiani. I can picture martinis and shrimp cocktail and other foods that were considered so glamorous in that era. The third connection between a book and food may be place: A book set in Italy like My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante would lend itself to a simple Italian meal of flatbread or crostini with a salad.

Lastly, the if there isn’t an obvious way to tie food into the book you’re going to discuss, just serve something simple that your friends will enjoy!

Here, I have included three recipes: the first is my favorite pizza dough, which can be used in the flatbread recipes that follow. Flatbread is like pizza, but the crust is a little stiffer and the toppings are decidedly un-pizza-like. You could use my recipe to make your own dough, buy a ball of dough at your favorite pizza joint, or in a pinch, use packaged naan which is available in the bakery section of the grocery store. Both flatbread recipes could be served in wedges with a salad for a light meal, or cut into smaller pieces for an appetizer portion. Flatbread would also be a good choice for a lap-based meal if your book club is large and cannot fit at a table. Happy cooking (and reading!)

5 6 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Pizza Dough (makes two large-ish pizzas) Bread flour is made from hard wheat, and has a higher protein content, which makes a chewy, crispy crust. Of course, if you don’t have bread flour on hand, all-purpose flour is a good substitute.

3½ to 4 cups bread flour 1 teaspoon sugar 1 envelope instant yeast 2 teaspoons salt 2 tablespoons olive oil 1½ cups warm water In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the dough hook, put 3½ cups flour, sugar, yeast and salt. Mix to combine. Add the oil and water and beat on medium speed until it forms a smooth ball. If the dough is too sticky, add flour a little at a time until smooth.

Dump out on a floured counter and knead until smooth. Grease a mixing bowl with olive oil, and place the dough in the bowl.

Cover with a clean towel, place in a warm area and let rise about an hour. After an hour, dump the dough back out on a floured counter and cut into two balls.

Dough can be kept in the fridge for up to three days, or freezer for up to a month. Let come to room temperature before cooking.

Use this dough in the flatbread recipes that follow, or as a “regular” pizza, topping with your favorite vegetables, meat and cheese, and baking for about 10 minutes at 500 degrees, until the crust is brown, and cheese is bubbly and golden. c vhomemaga zine .com 57

Flatbread Primavera (serves 4-6)

Handmade pasta.

Made daily.

Catering Available.

One half recipe pizza dough 1 large sweet onion ½ bunch fresh asparagus 8 ounces burrata ½ cup frozen peas, thawed Olive oil Salt and pepper Preheat the oven with a pizza stone (if you have one!) to 500 degrees. Slice the onion in ½ inch slices. Saute until browned and limp, about 10 minutes. While the onion is cooking, cut the woody ends from the asparagus, and slice the remaining spears into 1-inch pieces. When the onions are almost finished, add the asparagus to the pan and saute for another 4 minutes. Set aside.

Pat and stretch the pizza dough into a large circle. If you’re using a pizza stone: Place dough on a rimless cookie sheet or pizza peel that has been dusted with cornmeal. Slide onto the stone in the

Sauces, soups, entrées, pizza & pasta made daily!

preheated oven and cook for 4 minutes. If you don’t have a pizza stone, put the dough on a cookie sheet that has been dusted with flour or cornmeal, and place in the oven and cook for 4 minutes.

Remove from the oven and top with asparagus and onions. Drain the

921 Preston Avenue

Charlottesville, VA 22903

monalisapasta.com

burrata and tear or cut into 1-inch pieces. Scatter over vegetables, and season with salt and pepper. Return the flatbread to the oven and cook until heated through and crust is beginning to brown, about 6 minutes. Sprinkle with peas, drizzle with olive oil and cut into wedges.

5 8 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Cheese and Grape Flatbread (serves 4-6) I love flatbread and pizzas topped with salad, and this one would be a good candidate for that, topped with baby arugula tossed in a lemony vinaigrette.

8 ounces red seedless grapes 4 ounces good-quality blue cheese, like Roquefort or Stilton 1 large sweet onion Olive oil Salt and pepper Slice the onion into ½-inch slices. Rinse grapes and pat dry, then cut grapes in half. In a large saute pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the onions and grapes and cook, until the onions are brown and the grape juices are thickened, about 10 minutes.

Pat and stretch the pizza dough into a large circle. Place on a rimless cookie sheet that has been dusted with cornmeal.

Slide into the preheated oven and cook for 4 minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the grapes and onions. Sprinkle the blue cheese over the top. Sprinkle with black pepper.

Return the pizza to the oven and cook until heated through and crust is beginning to brown, about 6 minutes. Drizzle with olive oil and cut into wedges.

We have the power to make things better.

®

Your Expectation

• Immediate Response • Install, Service & Repair • Exact Price Upon Arrival • Scheduled Appointment Times • Clean, Courteous Service Professionals

Residential & Commercial 24 Hour Emergency Service

Our Expertise

• High Tech Troubleshooting • Lighting - Fixtures - Fans - Ballasts • New Outlets - Circuits - Data Lines • Panel Upgrades - Code Corrections • Security - Landscape Lighting

20OFF

$

434-973-3196

Charlottesville.MrElectric.com

Any Service Call

Limited time offer. Offer valid at participating locations only. Not valid with any other offer(s).

Independently Owned & Operated © 2014 Mr. Electric LLC • Licensed & Insured

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 5 9

n GARDEN PROFESSIONAL HELP

LAWN CARE PROS Ask the right questions when hiring a lawn care company

BY CH R IS T Y R I P P EL

The arrival of warmer weather means sun, short sleeves—and that familiar hum of the lawn mower. But if you’d rather turn the lawn care duties over to someone else this year, we’ve got the dirt (ahem) on how to hire a company that best suits your needs. Whether you want regular mowing, or help with an entire overhaul of your landscaping, some basic knowledge of lawn care will help you ask the right questions to be sure you’re heading down the right path—one that is preferably neatly edged.

Lawn Care 101

While you may have pushed a mower across your yard for years, there may be some tips on lawn care that you don’t know and may help you when hiring a professional to help. For example, many people like the look of short grass, but it can encourage weeds and make the grass grow unevenly and faster, necessitating more frequent mows. If you are paying someone to cut the lawn, save money by extending the amount of time between mowings. A general guide is to never cut more than 1/3 of the length of the grass in a single mow. While many reputable landscapers do follow this guideline, homeowners often ask for shorter grass, and some companies oblige.

In addition to mowing, the other basic lawn care ritual is fertilizing. Opinions about when to fertilize, what to use, and how much is a continual topic of debate among lawn care professionals. Many say twice a year is adequate for the average lawn, but more aggressive schedules may be five times a year or more. How important is it to you to have the greenest lawn on the block? Or, is a neatly mowed landscape for your kids to play on enough to satisfy you?

Another way to feed your lawn is by leaving lawn clippings in the grass, rather than bagging them. Experts say the clippings can supply half of the food that a lawn needs in a year. However, this may not be ideal for families with pets and children, so decide in advance if you’ll want the clippings left or bagged, as this will likely influence the price you pay.

Now that you know to extend the time between cuts with longer grass, and you’ve thought about bagging versus leaving your clippings, decide if fertilizing is something you want to handle yourself or if you want to hand that over, too. When you know what you want, you’re ready to bring in the experts.

6 0 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Finding Your Lawn Care Service

Whenever hiring a contractor like a landscaping company to do work at your home, it’s best to start from referrals. Ask around; neighbors and friends will probably be happy to share their experiences. Plan to interview at least two or three companies to have a sense of price structures and to be sure you are getting the best deal and right fit. Once you have a list and are ready to set up appointments, make a list of questions to have on hand. One of the first things to know is whether the contractor has liability insurance. If he doesn’t, your homeowner’s policy could be at risk and you could be liable for injuries that occur on your property. You may want to know if the company owner or supervisor is a member of any professional organizations, which could indicate that they are up to date on best practices and are mindful of using the correct amounts of fertilizers and other chemicals—important for the safety of kids, pets and the environment.

A printed menu of services and prices is helpful, which, in addition to mowing and fertilizing, might include anything from mulching, leaf removal, weed control and tree pruning to landscape design. Some prices might be fixed (like mulching, based on quantity) while mowing quotes are individual based on size of lawn, obstacles (fencing, playsets, etc.) and terrain.

Ask what factors into your individual quote, and find out if prepaying at the start of the season can net you a discount; bundling services together (like mowing and fertilizing) can often lower your total costs as well.

Ask if you can expect surfaces, like walkways and driveways, to be blown clear of clippings, and if edging is included, or an extra cost. When you have written quotes in hand to compare, be sure to read the fine print: is there an automatic renewal clause? Can you subtract services at a later date without penalty?

A reputable company will be happy to answer your questions.

Once you’ve compared your quotes and made your decision, sit back and enjoy the sun on your face and the pleasant sounds of spring—and leave the mowing duty to someone else.

Insulation isn’t sexy...

but a comfortable home can be!

Everyone is uncomfortable when it’s too hot or cold in your home and inadequate insulation is

your homes biggest enemy. Stop fighting your thermostat and enjoy a comfortable home today.

Call to schedule your FREE insulation consultation today.

434-878-3227

• creativeconservation.com

Questions to Ask When Interviewing a Lawn Care Company ■ Do you have liability coverage?

■ Will the same crew be doing the work every time?

■ Is the mowing schedule changed around fertilizer applications?

■ Are bundled services less expensive?

■ Do you offer discounts for pre-paying for the season?

■ Do I have to sign a contract?

■ What services warrant extra charges?

■ Do you subcontract any services to a third party?

■ Can I add or subtract services later without penalty? c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 6 1

n SPECIAL INTEREST DESIGN HOUSE 2016

BY H E AT H ER E . TOW E P h ot o g r a p hy by Ro b e r t Ra d i fe r a

T

he Design House, an event the community has come to love since its inception in 2009, is the signature fundraiser for the Shelter for Help in Emergency (SHE). Once a year, a Charlottesville-area homeowner generously extends the use of their home for the Design House event, in which designers come together to customize the house from top to bottom, showcasing ideas and innovations in every room. The idea for the Design House began shortly after SHE, which provides services for survivors of domestic violence, had completed the fundraising, designing and building of their new residential facility in 2008. One of the shelter’s volunteers, who had seen a similar design house fundraising project in California, submitted a proposal to the shelter to do a design house in Charlottesville. Even though the staff and the shelter’s executive board loved the idea of the fundraiser, they were at that time still handling the monumental changes that had been involved in building and moving into the new confidential residential facility.

Eighteen months later, in 2009, staff revisited the idea, discussed the possibilities, and with the help of many volunteers and designers lending their knowledge and experience, the tradition of Charlottesville’s Design House began. And each year, the event gets bigger and better. Last year, over 1,300 visitors toured the Design House on Frays Ridge Road in Earlysville; the house showcased the exquisite work of 17 local designers. The event’s Preview Party, featuring a silent auction, was attended by a record number of supporters, and visitors enjoyed the event cafe and shopped in the Design House Boutique.

6 2 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

Design House Represents Shelter and Its Mission

The Shelter for Help in Emergency has provided services and safe shelter to survivors of domestic violence in the city of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa and Nelson for over 37 years. For the safety of women that the shelter serves, the location of the residential facility has always been kept confidential. As a result, the community at large is unable to see exactly how the shelter provides a beautiful place of refuge so that its clients can rebuild their lives and self worth.

So the Design House serves a unique purpose: “The Design House is a tangible reminder to the community about what the shelter does and how it provides a warm and supportive atmosphere for people who have been victimized,” says SHE’s Executive Director Cartie Lominack. “It represents what every home, in essence, should be—a welcoming, safe and peaceful place.”

While the grand scale of the Design House may not mirror the comfortable, homey atmosphere of the Shelter for Help in Emergency, the shelter’s impact on its clients is as aweinspiring. The organization’s mission statement says: “The Shelter for Help in Emergency is committed to providing a safe, supportive, confidential and respectful environment in which survivors of domestic violence are empowered with the knowledge of personal and community resources as well as the skills needed to make informed decisions for themselves and their families.” Each year, SHE responds to nearly 1,000 hotline calls, provides close to 4,000 nights of safe shelter to more than 200 women and children, and assists many other victims of domestic violence through their outreach services. Thousands of members of the community receive information about domestic violence and how to help.

“The Design House is a tangible reminder to the community about what the shelter does and how it provides a warm and supportive atmosphere for people who have been victimized,” says SHE’s Executive Director Cartie Lominack.

“It represents what every home, in essence, should be—a welcoming, safe and peaceful place.” c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 6 3

Design House and SHE Foster Community

The shelter provides community for its residents in a couple of ways. The most basic and obvious way is through the staff who work and volunteer at the shelter’s residential facility. When clients arrive, they are provided with information, support and counseling. Immediately, they learn that they are valuable and that things will get better. The residents also become part of a community of survivors, women who have escaped from abusive homes where they have been isolated and scared, silenced and disempowered. In the company of others, seeing they are no longer alone, their shame begins to fade and they can start to recover their strength.

In much the same way, the Design House creates several communities. First, the event creates a community of designers who volunteer to participate at their own expense. Many designers apply to participate, and a design committee that includes members of SHE’s volunteers, staff and a designer, select the designers and assign them rooms. Coming together to create the look and feel of the myriad designs in the house leads to the emergence of new ideas that inform each of their businesses and aesthetics.

Visitors, too, become part of this local Charlottesville design community. Lominack says, “It’s like HGTV in your own back yard. Each room is full of ideas and inspirations.

It’s an opportunity to see what others are doing in a space like yours, or to learn how different colors and patterns work together. Visitors become familiar with local designers, and fabulous working relationships develop.”

6 4 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

2016 DESIGN TEAM Moyanne Harding

INTERIORS BY MOYANNE

First Floor Master Bedroom

Nicole Fagerli, ASID & Kori Messinger, ASID STEDMAN HOUSE

Library

Andrea Gibson, ASID

GIBSON DESIGN GROUP

Living Room

Heidi Brooks & Penny Crandall

HEIDI BROOKS INTERIOR DESIGN & STEELE, STERLING & CRANDALL INTERIORS LLC

Foyer

Victoria Pouncey & Beth Ann Kallen FOLLY

Breakfast Room & Kitchen Sheilah Michaels

SHEILAH MICHAELS DESIGN STUDIO

Dining Room

Michelle Willis Adams LLC Second Floor Master Bedroom Design House Benefits Shelter in Many Ways

According to Lominack, the Design House benefits the Shelter in two main ways.

The Design House raises awareness for the Shelter as part of what Lominack calls “friend-raising.” The exposure created by the event enables the community to engage with the Shelter. Knowing that the Shelter exists in turn creates awareness of the issue of domestic violence, which is challenging to address because of its secrecy and severity. Lominack points out that domestic violence is an issue that is “not out in the open.” It is not only difficult to see, as it is something that happens behind closed doors in a house, but it is also tough to address, because often it is either hidden or misunderstood.

The second way the Design House benefits the Shelter is through financial support. The event provides about $75,000 annually to support the mission and the programs of the Shelter. As Lominack says, the funds “ensure that there will be someone on the other end of the phone to walk through the process when someone calls the hotline, that the doors of the shelter can be opened

in the middle of the night to someone who has had to escape, and that someone will be able to help the children involved understand that what is happening is not their fault and that they can be safe and secure while with us.”

The Design House is not only a fun and creative way for the public to engage with the Charlottesville design community, but it also creates a strong presence for SHE. “Every year,” Lominack says, “at least one person passes through the house who thanks us for having an impact on their life, either just by being here or actually having helped someone they love.”

This year’s Design House is located at Keswick Estate, with parking at the nearby Church of the Nazarene, 3056 Louisa Road, Keswick. The Design House will be open every day from May 7 to May 22 with extended hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays. For information about how to purchase tickets and more, see cvilledesignhouse.com.

Jennifer Greenhalgh

JACKSON + PARK DESIGN

Second Floor Child’s Bedroom

Tatiana Yavorska-Antrobius FINE ART & DESIGN

Second Floor Guest Bedroom Leslie Gregg

THE MARKET AT GRELEN

Screened Porch & Patio Peggy Woodall

THE CLOSET FACTORY

Pantry

Cheryl Jarvis Southworth DESIGNS BY CHERYL

Lower Level Vestibule Nina Crawford

MSS DESIGNS

Powder Room & Laundry Room Connie Norwood ETHAN ALLEN

Lower Level Office Heather P. Williams Front Landscape Dan Gregg

Photos are from previous Design House tours.

GRELEN NURSERIES

Rear Landscape

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 6 5

n INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

HOME C H A R L O T T E S V I L L E

Premium Engineered LVT Plank & Tile

NEW STYLES AVAILABLE!

DESIGN

■

IMPROVE

■

GARDEN

■

LIVE

Airflow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Allied Concrete Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Artisan Construction, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Bank of the James. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Brown Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Carpet Plus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Charlottesville 4 Miler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Kid-Proof Pet-Proof Waterproof

Charlottesville Sanitary Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

WORRY-FREE

Closet Factory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Circa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Craig Builders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Creative Conservation.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Creative Framing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

434.977.7587 1739-a allied street (behind c’ville coffee) www.carpetplusonline.com

Crown Orchard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Design House 2016. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Embrace Home Loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

carpet | luxury vinyl tile | hardwood | area rugs | ceramic | cork | bamboo

Fabrics Unlimited. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Ferguson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Celebrating our 23rd Season of

Fa b u l ous ness!

Grand Home Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Grelen Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Mona Lisa Pasta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Montague Miller & Co. Realtors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Who:

Women and girls of all ages!

When:

Saturdays beginning June 18 At our “Stay cool” start time, 7:00 am!

Registration 6:15-7:00 am

Mr. Electric. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Where: UVA Track (Lannigan Field, across from U-Hall) Parking is plentiful and free.

Peak Builders, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Moonlight by Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

(Recommended minimum age 8)

th

What:

Bring a water bottle, sunscreen and either a towel or folding chair.

Cost:

$20 Registration Fee $15 CTC Members

* Mother/daughter teams (training together, girls age 14 & younger) are $30 per team (1 woman/1 girl/1 training manual); additional girls (under 14, all training together), $10 each.

2016 Women’s Four Miler Training Program

n tratio Regis ay 1st sM begin LINE! N O

For up-to-date information, please visit:

www.w4mtp.com

WALK OR RUN • ANY LEVEL NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! 11 WEEKS • ATTEND ANY OR ALL SESSIONS

Our Lady of Peace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Reliance Title and Settlement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SariSand Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Scott Weiss Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Southern Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Southern Development Homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Southern Grace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Specialized Insurance Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Sun Mountain Stoneworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 The Art Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Columns Boutique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 The Habitat Store. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 The Happy Cook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Virginia Commonwealth Games. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Wainwright Tile & Stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Waynesboro Nurseries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Window Depot USA of Richmond and Charlottesville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

6 6 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e H O M E M a y /J u n e 2 0 1 6

-

Because peace on earth... begins at home!

May 7 - May 22

Open Everyday 10am to 4pm Extended Hours on Wednesday and Thursday 10am to 7pm

Keswick Estate Design House features over 20 local designers and their artists and suppliers.

Lectures, Special Events, Design House CafĂŠ and Boutique.

Also available for private and corporate events.

admission Price $20 one-time visit | $45 multiple visits Parking at Church of the Nazarene, 3056 Louisa Road, Keswick, VA 22947

___________________

For detailed information and tickets visit

www.CvilleDesignHouse.com Tickets available at the door starting May 7.

Proceeds support the services and programs of the Shelter for Help in Emergency.

Hunter Smith Family Foundation

Closet Factory: the art of organization

Closets | Garages | Home Offices | Entertainment Centers | Pantries Wall Beds | Wall Units | Craft Rooms | Laundry Rooms | Mud Rooms | Wine Rooms THIS IS THE 6TH YEAR THAT CLOSET FACTORY HAS PARTICIPATED IN THE SHE DESIGN HOUSE. Closet Factory has created a range of storage solutions: walk-in master closets to mud rooms, pantries, wine rooms, and laundry rooms.

A FUNCTIONAL PANTRY Do you open your pantry doors and wonder where to find the ingredients for dinner? Do you come home with groceries and find that you just have to shove them in wherever they will fit? Then you need a Closet Factory pantry!

Celebrating 17 years of serving Charlottesville & Richmond

$300 Off

Minimum purchase required. Call for details.

New design contracts only. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present at time of design consultation.

Offer expires 6/30/16.

Pantries really have to function well or else they become a black hole where groceries go in and are never seen again. A well designed pantry includes spaces for your largest appliance and your smallest can of tomato paste—all visible—all accessible.

This year’s Design House pantry is crafted for a busy family that also loves to entertain. There are specially designed spaces for baking pans when it’s time to make cupcakes with the kids, and also handy wine storage when it’s party time for the adults. Plus there’s lots of room for the potatoes and onions, bottles and cans that we use to make a family diner on a Tuesday night.

Come to the 2016 SHE Design House to see the difference that a Closet Factory pantry can make in your life.

434.218.1658

Call for free design consultation or visit us online at closetfactory.com

Showroom: 8162-C Elm Drive, Mechanicsville, VA 23111