Charlottesville HOME Magazine March/April 2016

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

DESIGN

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GARDEN

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FIRNEW FARM

family home, artists’ retreat HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK

THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE An in-depth look at the Charlottesville area MARKET TRENDS

UPGRADES THAT MATTER

THE PERFECT WHITE PAINT MARCH/APRIL 2016, vol. 3, No. 1

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

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Volume 3 I ssu e 1 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 Becky Calvert Lucy Cook Andie Gibson Megan Hall Alyssa Mercadante Noelle Milam Rory Rhodes Heather E. Towe 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

Virginia Hamrick Sue Linthicum BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Pam Whorley ADVERTISING SALES

Liz Houhoulis Janet Lampman Kelly Mays 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.

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.

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n editor ’ s note As young marrieds, my husband and I moved—a lot. We relocated cities up and down the Eastern seaboard seven times in as many years, making what we thought were really smart real estate decisions each time (if we did say so ourselves). We’d go for location, charm, and potential resale, knowing we were in that phase of life when relocating was necessary and even rather exciting. We got so confident about picking just the right house that I even let my husband buy one house in Philadelphia without my seeing it—a major fixer-upper that we flipped before flipping became a thing. That, gentle readers, will never happen again. But what an experience! Oh, to be that young again.

Times are a little different now, for us and probably for a lot of homeowners, with our current climate calling for smarter real estate decisions. Lucky for us all, we have enough information at our fingertips to make us empowered consumers. Everyone who owns a home is wise to stay abreast of what’s going on in the real estate world, to know what’s happening with what may be your biggest investment—which is why we at HOME have created this special “Real Estate Issue.” Here you will learn what’s going on in our local market—what’s selling fast, what’s in demand, what are the most sought-after features? We also share information about home upgrades that affect the long-term value of your home, as well as tips for navigating new lending regulations. If

putting your home on the market is in your near future, you’ll benefit from our “ready, set, sell” checklist. Even if it’s not, we trust you’ll find this article helpful, because if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that taking care of your home is a necessary investment—whether you are happily living in your forever home or you attend open houses for sport.

One easy, refreshing bit of maintenance just about anyone can get behind is a fresh coat of paint. Because the color white is having a major moment, we asked local designers to divulge their favorite white paints. Refreshing your outdoors is also in order even though garden’s open season is weeks away; we present articles to inspire you to add a garden bench or other embellishments for your exteriors for an early-spring spruce-up.

In this special issue of HOME, we hope you’ll find there’s much to learn, to understand, and most importantly, to enjoy about homeownership. Thanks for reading!

—MERIDITH INGRAM, EDITOR in Chief meridith@westwillowpublishing.com

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contents Ch a r l ot t e s v ill e h o m e M a rc h /A p r il 2 0 1 6

THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE An in-depth look at the Charlottesville area

10 22 28 36 52 62

Trends in the Real Estate Mark et

By An d i e G i b s o n

READ Y, S E T, S E L L : A Check list

By M e gan Hal l

Home Upgrades that M atter

By N o e l l e M i l a m

New Developments in O ur Area

By H eat h e r E. Tow E

Build Vs . B uy ?

By H eat h e r E. Tow e

Financing the Home of Your Dreams

By B e c ky Ca lv e rT

showcase home

Cover photography by Sue Linthicum at Firnew Farm 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

40 Historic home, artists’ retreat Firne w Farm

By H eat h e r E. Tow e 7

Ch a r l ot t e s v ill e h o m e M a rc h /A p r il 2 0 1 6

departments 25

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DESIGN

IMPROVE

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14 E X T E RIOR E M B ELLISHMENTS Accessories, projects that add curb appeal

59 RAIN GARDEN S Turn a soggy spot into a visual attraction

17 SITTING PRETTY Garden benches add beauty and function

25 G R E AT GR A I N S New ways with whole grains

By R o ry R h o d es

By Cynth ia B e M e nt

By Lu cy C o o k

55 HISTORIC GARDEN W E EK 2 0 1 6 A preview of delightful homes and gardens on this year’s tour

65 A R OU N D T OW N Home and garden events in our area

By Alys sa M e r cadante

32 T he P erfect White Designers weigh in on their favorite white paint

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

Lectures, Special Events, Design House Café and Boutique.

Also available for private and corporate events.

admission Price: $20 one-time visit & $15 for groups of 5 or more Parking information available online at www.CvilleDesignHouse.com

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For detailed information and tickets visit

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

Hunter Smith Family Foundation

WHAT’S TRENDING IN LOCAL REAL ESTATE? Get the inside scoop from area experts

By A n d i e G i b s o n 10

In addition to blooming flowers, chirping birds and warming temperatures, spring in the Charlottesville region generally signals an uptick in real estate activity.

Sellers have spent the winter prepping their homes to go on the market. Buyers are eager to get out and start searching for their dream property.

So what home features do area experts say current residential buyers have most often on their wish lists? And what can sellers do to make sure their properties are positioned to sell quickly?

“There’s always that person out there who’s looking for value, a great property at a great price per square foot,” says Erin Garcia, a Realtor with Loring Woodriff Real Estate Associates. “But one of the things I’m definitely continuing to hear is buyers

want a property with lots of light. The more light the better.”

The National Association of Realtors points to a number of emerging trends that it expects to influence real estate choices in the near future, including use of materials with a handcrafted style, reclaimed wood floors and better integration of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Garcia says these are all popular features with Charlottesville-area buyers who often ask for properties with more outdoor space that also offer abundant character.

“Whether it’s a large property or a small condo, people want more access to the outside—or they want to connect their outdoor space to their indoor space,” says Garcia. “They want to take advantage of the beauty of our region.”

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE trends in local real estate

On homebuyers’ wishlists? Natural light, abundant character, reclaimed materials and thoughtfully integrated indoor/ outdoor spaces.

Screened porches are always popular, but also on the rise as a solution to integrating indoor and outdoor spaces are largescale door panels that fold up like garage doors. Once in a price range out of reach for many, they’re now available at more affordable prices and offer homeowners a better connection with their outdoor space without blocking daylight or views like some porches. 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

While “character” may be more difficult to define, Garcia says buyers tell her frequently that, while they definitely want usable space, they prefer their future home to have distinctive features such as wide trim and wood floors that show the patina of age with unique markings.

“The buyers I work with like the character of the Charlottesville area and they want that reflected in their home,” Garcia says. “You see someone walk into a house that has that attention to detail and their eyes just light up.”

Ann Hay Hardy, an associate broker with Frank Hardy Sotheby’s International Realty, says a number of home trends can be gleaned from activity in Charlottesville’s residential city market, which has remained active over the past year despite low inventory.

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DOWNTOWN 515 11th Street NW, Charlottesville

Extensive work was done on this 3 BR, 1.5 BA home in 2013 by AHIP (Albemarle Housing Improvement Program). New siding, roof & gutters, plaster repairs, new Bosch on demand water heater, basement vapor barrier, upgraded insulation and much more.

Alley access to detached garage and back yard. This property has a $50,200 tax abatement good through 2021, which transfers with a sale to an owner occupant. Priced at $205,000. Convenient to The University, UVA Hospital, Barracks Road and Downtown.

Frankie Carl

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“That points to a trend toward urban living, low maintenance, smaller spaces with character and close proximity to amenities,” says Hardy. “Having said that, those buyers who are interested in being in the country are seeing an opportunity as that market remains softer with more options.”

According to the Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors (CAAR), 2015 marked the fourth consecutive year home sales in the region have increased with 3,282 homes sold last year.

Half of the homes sold in 2015 were on the market 46 days or less with the median sales price being $270,000 (unchanged from 2014).

CAAR says current inventory is at its lowest level since the end of 2005—16.5 percent below where it was this time last year.

For sellers who plan to list their properties in the Charlottesville region this year, Hardy and Garcia offered a number of tips.

“The best thing a seller can do when putting their house on the market is make it as turnkey as possible,” says Hardy. “Once a potential buyer sees something wrong with a property, they will begin a mental inventory to look out for other things that could be wrong. This will all be reflected in any offer they may be considering making. The more a purchaser can envision living in a property with as little maintenance as possible the better. If they see that the property shows well from the start, it easier to legitimize its value.”

Garcia stresses to sellers the importance of presenting the house to be as appealing as possible to as many people as possible.

“Decluttering is a big part of that,” she says. “Sellers should also look at what the best use of space is for each room in their house. For example, if you have a four-bedroom house, do you really need to have that fourth bedroom? Or would it be better to stage that room as a den or office?”

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

Ann Hay Hardy 202.297.0228 ahhardy@frankhardy.com

C OU N T RY L I V I NG I N V I RG I N IA

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LUXOR TERRACE Only 10 miles from Charlottesville in desirable Western Albemarle, this private manor offers outstanding mountain and water views. 23.6 acres that can be divided. There are two stocked ponds and two streams. The exquisite brick custom brick home has many high end finishes and is over 7700sf with 7 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. A true masterpiece in the heart of the country. $1,950,000. MLS# 542228.

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MONTGOMERY LANE Walk up the boxwood lined path to this exceptionally built Ivy home. This lovely 4 bedroom, 3 bath house is private yet convenient to town. With over 3.5 acres, the mature landscaping and gardens offer a tranquil setting. The property also has two streams. $675,000 MLS# 538031

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HUNT COUNTRY LANE One of a kind contemporary home off Garth Road. 21 acres of rolling hillside with water views. Elegantly landscaped and private. Brick home features an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, arched entryways and carved wood railings. 1st floor master suite and full finished basement with home office and dark room. Kitchen features granite island, custom colored birch and Viking range. $1,698,000 MLS# 530802

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

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FOX ACRES Charming brick cape cod set in a picturesque country setting. The 6,800sf home has 5 brms and 7 baths with high vaulted ceilings, two brick fireplaces and large 1st floor master suite with screened porch. Kitchen has a granite island and wood beamed ceilings. Separate home office and work shop. Two ponds. Complete with pool and artist studio. $795,000 MLS# 531788

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THE BARRINGER This 5th floor condo is ideally situated with close proximity to theUVA campus, directly behind the UVA Medical Center. The over 1200sf unit covers two floors with outdoor balcony, wood floors, two bedrooms and two full baths. Kitchen has granite counter tops and all stainless steel appliances. Some furniture included. $495,000 MLS# 434838

n DESIGN CURB APPEAL

Exterior Embellishments Little Touches Make Big Impact on Curb Appeal

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By A lys s a M er ca da n t e

There is no better time than now to think about updating the exterior of your home. A small facelift is just what your abode needs to feel rejuvenated after a long winter. And while the idea of an outdoor makeover may seem daunting, a little bit goes a long way when it comes to boosting curb appeal and adding some oomph to your home’s outward appearance. These easy outdoor project ideas can each be completed in as little as one weekend— even one day—and can likely be done yourself.

A Splash of Color

If you feel up to a little bit of painting, a revived front door—the focal point of curb appeal—could be the ticket to instantly updating your home. Choose a not-so-neutral color to make your entryway really pop. Bold aquas and greens look great against a tan or brown house while bright red stands out on a gray or white house. Don’t be afraid to experiment here since bright and bold doors are all the rage, are an inexpensive update, and can easily be repainted. All you need is the paint color of your choice, a flat brush, and a painter’s tray and tape. Try transitioning this exterior update to the inside of your home by painting the other side of the door as well. On the other hand, you can reflect your home’s interior on the outside by adding a decorative wreath or oversized monogram that reflects your personal taste and style.

Cool Metals, Neat Numbers

Updating your house numbers, door knobs and door knockers are small but effective ways to give your exterior a stylish look. There are so many DIY projects out there for modernizing your house number. Think big, fancy fonts in stainless steel or aluminum affixed to the face of the house, or a display of various potted plants arranged on the front porch with numbers painted on the sides. If you have the space, add a cute bench out front with a bright and colorful pillow featuring your house number in a bold applique to really make a statement. Get rid of those old, shiny brass door knobs and replace with bronze or another favorite metal. If you don’t like the idea of buying and 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

replacing your door hardware, try using a metal spray paint to quickly update the look and feel of your knobs and hinges.

If you are looking for something more unique, be sure to scour local antique shops. Adding an old, interesting door knob or door knocker with intricate details and designs to your front door can really give your house the perfect dash of character.

Simple Lighting

Properly illuminating your home’s wonderful features is key to curb appeal.

And this doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming project. Install solar lighting along your sidewalk leading up to your house to make a large impact with little effort, making your home feel warm and inviting instantly. Solar lighting does not require any wiring and can be purchased at any home improvement store. If you’re up for spending a little more, add a large overhead chandelier- or lantern-like light fixture to your front porch to accent your house and create a warm, welcoming entryway. (Consider calling in the electrician on this one if you have no electrical experience.) If you have porch lights on either side of the front door, consider updating them as well so they match the door’s hardware.

Symmetry and fluidity are important factors to consider when it comes to creating curb appeal, as pieces that flow together are pleasing to the eye.

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Paint the wooden post on your mailbox to match or complement your home’s exterior color. Add your house numbers down the post in a contrasting color, making sure they are clearly visible. Surround your mailbox with a beautiful flowering garden or a small, simple bed of rocks with hardy ferns.

Mailbox Makeover

Your mailbox may be one of your least worries, but it’s likely one of the first things people see when they arrive at your home. Let it set the tone and complement your home while expressing your personality. Try using indoor/ outdoor spray paint for a metal mailbox.

Two coats should do it and will dry in less than an hour. Think about choosing a fun, bright color for the box—such as a turquoise-blue with a shiny red flag—and white with large black house numbers for the post. If you have more conservative tastes, paint your mailbox black or white for a more classic look. Paint the wooden

post or pole to match or complement your home’s exterior color. Add your house numbers down the post in a contrasting color, making sure they are clearly visible.

Surround your mailbox with a beautiful flowering garden or a small, simple bed of rocks with hardy ferns.

Each of these done-in-a-day projects allow you to express yourself and add instant pizzazz to your home. To complete your home’s fresh, new look, be sure to manicure your lawn, tend to any shrubs and bushes, wash dirt off of sidewalks and driveways, and wipe down the windows to make your home sparkle and shine.

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n GARDEN GARDEN BENCHES

Pretty

SITTING Garden benches provide front-row seats for spring’s premiere

By Cy n t h i a B eM en t

Spring may not yet have sprung, but it’s never too early to envision your garden in full bloom. Winter is the best time to plan your plant-filled outdoor space for the spring, summer and fall—which includes not only what plants you’ll be tending this year, but how you’ll get the most enjoyment from your labors.

Incorporating a bench—the workhorse piece of furniture in any room, indoors or out—into your design will help you transform your garden into an interactive oasis for relaxation, discovery and even utility, year-round. Here, we’ll help you choose the perfect perch for your outdoor escape.

Location, Location, Location

First things first: Identify where a bench may easily fit into your existing garden design, or consider where you might make landscape changes to incorporate one. Find the best views of your yard—water features, fountains and focal-point beds are obvious spots that benefit from a well-placed bench from which to admire their beauty. The base of a flowering tree, near a fragrant bush or next to long grasses are also great locations in which to sit a spell. Other prime places for benches are along walkways and in the farthest reaches of your yard, beckoning visitors to meander all the way through and admire the sights and inhale the aromas of your landscape on the way to a respite spot.

A bench can also bring an element of surprise and interest or blend seamlessly into the landscape when placed directly in a bed or around a quiet corner where visitors rarely go.

Next, check the conditions of your potential bench location for ground dryness and for sun/shade patterns. Your ideal spot(s) should be free from runoff and post-rainshower standing water, and should provide shade for at least part of the daylight hours in which you’ll be enjoying time there. Study sun/shade patterns in your prospective spot for a few days prior to placing your bench there permanently. 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

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Find the best views of your yard; water features, fountains and focal point beds are obvious spots that benefit from a well-placed bench where you can sit and admire their beauty.

Make Room for Multitaskers

Consider additional roles your bench might play in your garden. A backless storage bench can hold tools, small pots, extra potting soil, gardening gloves or hoses. Two benches placed opposite each other can morph into an al fresco dining spot with the addition of a folding side table or two (and a tray of hors d’oeuvres).

Similarly, a bench located just off a patio or larger gathering spot can double as a mini-buffet during outdoor parties. And a bench with a backrest and under-seat storage can stow children’s outdoor toys, towels, extra sunscreen and bug repellent, as well as serve as a drying spot for towels after a run through the sprinkler or dip in the pool.

Style It Up

Bring in color and pattern to create a focal point with outdoor cushions and pillows arranged on a bench with a backrest that you can change up by the season, occasion or your mood. Iron, cast-aluminum and copper benches with backrests are often adorned with vine, floral or scroll patterns that can add interest to a bland area of your garden or can serve to draw the eye 18

toward a specific plant or architectural feature you’d like to be noticed. Wood and manufactured-wood benches with backrests bring their own flair; traditional, camel-backed, Mission-style, even brightly painted versions mean the accent options for your landscape are endless.

Pick the Perfect Perch

Once you’ve determined a location, style and any desired dual functionality, it’s time to go shopping for your bench (or benches!). Here are some common materials and their advantages out in the wilds of your garden.

Metal: Cast-aluminum, cast-aluminum with copper overlay, and steel are plentiful in garden bench design, typically in benches with seat backs that feature ornate designs. Metal’s durability is its big plus, as it naturally resists chipping and cracking, while the hefty weight of the bench ensures it will stay put (with the exception of aluminum, which is considerably lighter than other metals).

Temperature absorption with metal benches should also be on your radar if you plan to bench yourself in a primarily

sunny spot (in which case, a combination wood-metal bench with wood seat might be a better option). Price range: starting around $100 Wood: Teak, acacia and eucalyptus are three prevalent kinds of hardwood choices for garden benches. Like manufactured wood, these woods are more expensive than metal or plastic, but are revered for their durability, cleaning ease and virtually no maintenance, all while providing a natural-looking complement to your garden’s design. Wood also bears the bonus of being an eco-friendly and renewable material. Price range: starting around $300 Pl astic (including resin):

Usually lightweight and easy to move around, plastic benches that feature molded backs with lumbar support and other ergonomic design elements have become commonplace, as have trunkstyle, backless benches with lids for storage and designated spots to stash tools. Plastic benches can also feature faux rattan or wood textures for added interest.

Price range: starting at $100 C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

Composite/manufactured wood: Trex and Polywood are two

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

leaders in the manufactured wood/ composite category. Polywood, specifically, is made of durable, highdensity polyethylene (HDPE). Advantages to this type of bench are its resistance to cracks, chips, fading, as well as resistance to fungi, insects and saltwater. It also requires very little maintenance. Trex provides the same type of durability, and both are made of recycled materials. Price range: about $300 to $800

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Stone/concrete: Whether natural

stone, stamped concrete or custom-built from brick or pavers, a stone bench can lend a natural feel to your garden, one that will patina over time. Advantages of concrete or stone include their strength and natural weather-resistant properties, as well as stamped concrete’s ability to be formed into petite, curved benches, often accented with ornate trim patterns. These benches come in a wide variety of sizes and can adeptly squeeze into tight spaces and hug garden bed curves. Price range: starting at $50 Adding a bench (or three) to your garden this year is a sure bet for countless hours of outdoor enjoyment among the blooms, be it in reflective solitude, in boisterous celebration or in a bit of both. Find the right one for your space and you—and your guests—will never want to come inside.

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Out of Bounds in the heart of town

L outof bounds

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

ocated in the heart of Charlottesville, Out of Bounds is a new-home community located minutes from the University of Virginia and the Downtown Mall. With a mix of luxury villas and elevator townhomes, Out of Bounds offers charming seclusion nestled in Albemarle County with the convenience of being within walking distance of Barrack’s Road Shopping Center and many other close-in amenities.

Presented by Craig Builders, a locally owned and operated custom home builder since 1957, Out of Bounds has already created quite a buzz. Luxury villas, starting in the $600s, have sold out of the first phase and have a wait list for the remaining six. After pre-selling the first Towne building, five of the seven homes in the second Towne building were reserved within the first week of being released for sale. Buyers hail equally from out of town as well as those from Albemarle County who want to live closer to the heart of Charlottesville. In fact, this community is so special that the community’s developer is also a resident.

Craig Builders’ homes are made with quality construction methods, fine interior appointments, abundant use of windows—and the Craig Builders’ signature, custom-made mahogany front door. A new design studio located in the Out of Bounds model will help homeowners make their dream home a reality. Selections are curated by Cindy Craig of Craig Builders who not only decorates each of the model homes, but meets with all customers to help them make selections.

“We pride ourselves on delivering quality home products, custom-designed to meet each buyer’s needs, paired with exceptional service,” says Ben Davis, Vice President of Sales. “Our employees and subcontractors really love what they do; it shows in our work, and reflects in the homeowner’s experience building, and living, in their new home.”

For more information on Out of Bounds, contact Kate Colvin at Kate@craigbuilders.net or (434) 996-5008.

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THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE preparing to sell your home

READY, SET, SELL

By M ega n Ha l l

So you’ve decided to sell your house. Cue the excitement—and undoubtedly some angst. And if you are a home improvement dreamer, you may also be secretly delighted that those years of binge-watching HGTV and musing about organizational ideas are about to pay off!

Preparing your house for the onslaught of real estate agents, buyers and inspectors can be a daunting responsibility. However, fixating on every square inch of your house is not only an impossible task, but will also drive you mad.

Instead, keep your sanity in check with this handy checklist.

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A striped rug in your living room, floorlength curtains in the bedroom or mirrors in the hallway help spaces feel larger.

Rediscover Your Space

Whether you’ve nested in an 800- or 8,000-square-foot home, show off the light.

Buyers want to envision their own belongings adorning each room, and it’s your job to create a bright, blank page on which they can write their own narrative. n Remove clutter. Consider renting a small

temporary storage unit or commandeering a family member’s garage to eliminate bulky or excess furniture, off-season clothing, holiday decorations and the like. You don’t want to give the impression of cramped or limited storage. Treat this as an opportunity to purge unwanted items before you even begin the lofty packing process. n Clean, clean, clean. Buyers want to know

they are choosing a home that was cherished by its owners. Sparkling outlet covers and light switches, walls free of nicks and holes, and freshly swept porches can make all the 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

difference. Be warned—buyers are typically interested in cabinet space, and they also love an excuse to snoop, so don’t neglect your fridge, bathroom cabinets and linen closets. n Make it their home. Your guests may love

the macaroni art from your little tyke or the cringe-worthy family portrait from the ’90s, but that’s what makes it your home, not the buyer’s new home. Store personal items so folks can see the house as the start of their next chapter. n Employ tasteful trickery. A striped rug

in your living room, floor-length curtains in the bedroom or mirrors in the hallway help spaces feel larger. Store-bought bookshelves placed in a closet give the illusion of a custom organization system.

Higher-wattage light bulbs create instantly brighter spaces. Use small changes like these to make a big impact.

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Welcome the Inspector

Once you secure a buyer, the home inspection is perhaps one of the most nerve-wracking aspects of the process. However, you have more control than you think. Much like potential buyers, home inspectors want to traverse your house with ease. Follow this proactive approach to design a welcoming atmosphere centered on respecting the inspector’s time and skills. n Remove clutter. This step is absolutely essential. The inspector

does not want to navigate Lego forts, family pets, your greatgrandmother’s one-of-a-kind lamp, or anything else that might disrupt his or her work or cause chaos. n Disclose issues and repair documentation. Honesty is

always the best policy and selling your home is no exception.

The inspector will find any problem areas in your home, so make his or her job easier by disclosing any known issues up front. Also, if you’ve recently made repairs, be sure to provide proper documentation to the inspector. n Ensure access. Efficiency is key when it comes to home

inspections. Before the big day, take a walk through your home and ask yourself these questions: Are all doors unlocked? Are the attic and/or basement accessible? Do I have a ladder available, if needed? Are all appliances ready for testing (e.g., dishwasher unloaded, washer/dryer empty, no pots on stove)? n Schedule an outing. The last thing an inspector wants is you

or other family members underfoot, especially when speaking openly with potential buyers. It is recommended to leave the property an hour before the inspection.

Readying your home to be sold can be an emotional roller coaster, but it doesn’t have to be a rough ride. Remember, this is temporary. A little hard work now will yield great results. Steal a moment to imagine the long-awaited “Sold” placard adorning your “For Sale” sign. Now take a deep breath and get to work— those dust bunnies aren’t going to clean themselves.

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n LIVE CULINARY CORNER

Great Grains

By Lu cy Co o k

It’s never too late to make a resolution—or to follow through on a past resolution. Many of us love to resolve to “eat better,” and we all know by now that this means, among other things, “eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.” But there are other ways to improve our diets. A few decades ago, we were encouraged to reduce our meat intake, and pasta became the new center of the plate. Now, as we learn more about fueling our bodies for optimal health, we know we’re supposed to take it easy on refined carbohydrates like pasta, and instead reach for more whole grains.

Whole grains are filling and satisfying, and keep us from filling up on less virtuous foods like cheese or meat. Substituting whole grains for refined grains helps us reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis, hypertension and obesity. Need any other reasons to increase the whole grains in your diet?

Whole grains are not just for breakfast, although oatmeal and whole grain cereals are great choices to add to your daily diet. Whole grains should be added throughout your day, and can easily be substituted in your favorite recipes—from simple substitutions like using steel-cut oats for white bread in meatballs and meatloaf, to more complex substitutions like interchanging wheatberries for pasta, or bulgur for risotto, in more advanced recipes.

All grains come from cereal grasses and are the edible seeds of those grasses, composed of several different layers. The outer layer is generally inedible, and is removed. The next layer is the bran, rich in vitamins and minerals and soluble fiber. Under the bran is the germ—the part that sprouts—rich in enzymes, protein, minerals and vitamins. The starchy center (what is made into white flour) is called the endosperm. By the time we’ve removed all the outer coatings, the endosperm provides only carbohydrates—not many vitamins or minerals, and certainly no fiber. That’s why white flour has become such a villain in healthy diets. 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

When buying whole grains, keep in mind that packaging can be misleading.

Words like “natural” can mean nothing these days! Buy whole grains, read labels, and avoid processed (quick-cooking) or flavored grain mixes—they sometimes include added salt and sugar. Buy grains in bulk at natural foods stores or specialty foods stores, or sometimes even in the natural foods section of the grocery store.

Look for stores that have good turnover; whole grains can go rancid if stored in warm conditions for a long period of time. As with most other ingredients, buy only what you need for the short term, and store the grains in a dark, cool pantry, or even the refrigerator or freezer if room allows.

Although full of nutty flavors, whole grains almost always benefit from cooking in a flavored liquid, like chicken or vegetable stock, with carrots, celery and onions to add even more flavor. Although grains like farro and wheatberries have existed since the beginning of time, they’re somewhat new in our kitchens, and so we’ve included a cooking guide for some of our favorites. And you can add some great grains to your diet using these delicious recipes.

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Curry Quinoa Salad (Serves 4 as a side dish) Although this is great with quinoa, you could also substitute black rice (try the “Forbidden” brand) or wheatberries. ¾ cup dried apricots, divided 2 ⅓ cup water, divided ½ teaspoon curry powder 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 1 cup quinoa ½ cucumber, diced ½ red bell pepper, diced Salt and pepper to taste In a small saucepan, gently heat ½ cup apricots and 1/3 cup water to a simmer. Cover tightly and set aside for 10 minutes. Add curry powder and rice wine vinegar, and puree with a blender or food processor. Strain puree through a fine sieve and set aside.

Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa and cook for five minutes, stirring frequently. Cover and cook over low heat for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Cover tightly and let sit for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Toss vegetables and remaining apricots with quinoa and enough dressing to moisten. Season to taste. Serve with roasted chicken or fish.

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Barley and Mushroom Soup (Serves 4-6) ½ ounce package dried mushrooms (morels are great!)

1 cup water 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil 1 large onion, diced 2 carrots, diced 2 stalks celery, diced 2 6-inch pieces fresh thyme ½ cup pearled barley 4 cups mushroom or beef broth Salt and pepper to taste Bring dried mushrooms to a boil in the water and let sit for 20 minutes in a covered pan.

Strain liquid through a coffee filter to remove any grit, and set aside. Chop mushrooms.

In a large saucepan, sauté onions, carrots and celery in the olive oil until soft. Add thyme and barley and stir to coat with olive oil. Add stock and reserved mushroom water and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 20 minutes. Remove thyme pieces; season to taste with salt and pepper.

Grain Type

For every 1 cup uncooked grain, use the following amount of liquid (chicken/ vegetable stock or water)

Cooking Notes

Farro (a hearty and satisfying grain)

2 3/4 cups

Cook 10 minutes, salt to taste, and cook another 10 minutes.

Quinoa (great source of protein)

2 cups

Can be toasted 3-4 minutes in a dry saute pan before cooking.

Cook 10-12 minutes, let stand 5 minutes.

Whole grain rice (try the “Forbidden” brand black rice)

Liquid to cover, plus 1 inch

Simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender, but not mushy.

Wheatberries (hard red winter wheat)

3 1/2 cups unsalted

Soak overnight to speed cooking time. Cook 5060 minutes, let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Bulgur (pre-steamed 2 1/2 cups cracked wheat)

Barley (look for pearled barley; can be substituted for rice in risotto)

Pour boiling water over and let steep; don't cook.

3 1/2 cups

Wash and rinse barley, then add to boiling liquid.

Cook 30-35 minutes, let stand 10 minutes.

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UPGRADES THAT MATTER Getting the most out of home improvement projects

By N o el l e M i l a m 2 8

With finite resources to cover upgrades to a home, homeowners today are perhaps more careful than ever to evaluate and choose their home improvement projects wisely. Whether you are living in your “forever home” or know that you will be selling your home in the near future, you want to consider upgrades in such a way that they maximize the home’s value regardless of when, or if, you plan to sell.

Our homes are a shelter, a gathering place, a palette for our tastes and lifestyles, but they are also an investment—often the largest we ever make. If you are like most savvy homeowners, especially if you have lived in your home for more than a few years, you probably have laundry lists of home improvements to protect and enhance this investment. Most lists can be boiled down to two categories: things you know you need to do to your home and things you’d like to do to your home. The first list is likely chock-full of unglamorous items, like “insulate the attic, replace siding, line the fireplace, fix the broken stair riser.” The second list is more of a wish list, containing items that make your heartbeat quicken: “Replace master shower with steam shower, tear out old wall-to-wall carpet and install heated flooring, get rid of the rattling old refrigerator and replace it with a sleek builtin … ” You get the picture.

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE home improvement projects

The general rule of thumb for upgrades, both large and small, is that if you do plan to sell your home in the near future (defined by real estate professionals as less than 3 years), opt for upgrades that will appeal to most people.

Upkeep IS an Upgrade

When we do have the opportunity to do some projects around the house, it is tempting to ignore the “need to be done” list in favor of the wish list, but keep in mind that keeping up with the maintenance of a home should always be your first priority.

Drawing on decades of real estate experience, Steve McLean of McLean-Faulconer Realty advises all homeowners to be proactive with upkeep and maintenance of their property. “Make sure that the existing home is as clean and tidy and well-maintained as possible before spending on a big project,” he says. Replacing a roof may not be a very exciting way to spend a lot of money, but if your roof leaks, it will very quickly devalue every other project you do under that roof. Take care of your basic maintenance and any glaring issues first.

Most real estate professionals agree that the best way to protect your home’s value is to be vigilant about upkeep.

Maintenance projects add up over the years, and ignoring them only means you are creating a snowball of problems to address in the long run, so fix things that are breaking (or broken), perform necessary maintenance, and have a plan to replace things that need replacing.

Upgrades That Increase Value

Assuming your home and its systems are in good working order, you are ready to dust off that second list. But where do we start? We often hear that the smartest upgrades that offer the biggest returns in long-term home value are kitchens and bathrooms. McLean confirms that updated kitchens and baths are consistently popular among homebuyers, and thus generally a good way to increase your home’s value, though by no means a guarantee, he is careful to point out—especially in the short term.

“Be careful of trying to put yourself in the position of judging someone else’s taste,” McLean cautions, “because every buyer has a different idea of what they want.” He cautions against major upgrades—even kitchens and baths—purely to influence a selling price. Be certain that they are upgrades that you will also enjoy in the short or long term. The general rule of thumb for upgrades, both large and small, is that if you do plan to sell your home in the near future (defined by real estate professionals as less than 3 years), opt for upgrades that will appeal to most people. Choose natural materials, updated appliances, built-in storage and fresh paint in neutral colors for upgrades that have popular appeal. 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

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New countertops are one of the most noticeable upgrades in both the kitchen and bath, and can immediately boost a room’s “wow” factor.

Many homeowners are not in the position to completely tear out an old kitchen or bath and undertake a complete renovation. It is possible to take a more incremental approach.

New countertops are one of the most noticeable upgrades in both the kitchen and bath, and can immediately boost a room’s “wow” factor. Replacing dated fixtures like door handles and drawer pulls can also give these rooms an updated feel with minimum effort. Consider, too, your appliances. Do they have an up-to-date look, or is it time for something new? Flooring is often overlooked, but can go a long way to making a home look polished. Consider replacing vinyl or wall-to-wall carpeting with easy-to-maintain, low-allergen tile or hardwood. Even an upgrade as simple as a fresh coat of paint can transform a blah room.

In some cases, it makes sense to consider adding space to your home. This can be as extensive as an addition to an existing home, or reworking the existing square footage. Popular additions include bedrooms and/or bathrooms, garages, or the increasingly in-demand “great room,” a hybrid of kitchen, family dining area and den. Adding space can also be accomplished without changing the footprint of your home by expanding and updating closets, installing built-in shelving and cabinets for storage, and finishing off unused space in attics or basements.

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

When considering upgrades, don’t forget about your home’s outdoor spaces. Upgrades that increase curb appeal are always smart choices.

These include landscaping (think healthy, well-tended green areas: lawns, beds, and hedges) and hardscaping (attractive stone patios, well-maintained fencing, walkways and retaining walls). Curb appeal can be enhanced by upgrades to the house itself. A new front door is repeatedly cited as one of the smartest upgrades in terms of home values. Remove and replace old aluminum storm doors with more attractive and energyefficient models. Perhaps consider adding a covered entrance, or even a gracious front porch to make your home feel more welcoming.

Finally, remember that all upgrades, large and small, should be evaluated in terms of your enjoyment first, and future sale value second. Ultimately, the upgrades that matter the most are the ones that will bring you and your family functionality and pleasure now and for the years to come.

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n DESIGN PAINT PERFECTION

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Perfect

THE

WHITE

Choosing paint colors can be a daunting task. We often feel pressure to come up with a fabulous color for our walls, overlooking “plain white” in favor of something more creative or with more perceived flair.

But good-old-white, the default setting for ceilings and windowsills everywhere, is definitely having a moment.

Designers love it for its versatility, its ability to reflect a spectrum of undertones, and for the clean palette it presents. White paint can be subtle, or it can be its own big story—and, done well, it’s never boring. Here, we asked local designers and interiors specialists to share their tried and true “perfect whites.” 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

For my go-to white paint, I use Benjamin Moore’s White Dove (OC-17). Spotswood Lodge [the farmhouse/cottage rental that is owned and operated by our business, The Market at Grelen] is covered in it, and I used it on both walls and trim when we renovated. I like it because even when you use the same color on both the walls and the trim, if you use a gloss finish on the trim and a flat finish on the walls, you get a subtle shade difference—which looks really fresh and nice.

Leslie Gregg, The Market at Grelen 33

Interiors by Moyanne is proud to now carry Farrow and Ball paints. These colors are tried and true as Farrow and Ball is the oldest paint company in the world. They come in a variety of finishes including my favorite two—“Modern Emulsion,” a satin, and “Estate Eggshell,” a semi-gloss. Using these two finishes together in the same color gives you that tone-on-tone look.

Farrow and Ball paints have amazing texture, come premixed, and contain more titanium dioxide (more pigment) than most American paints, giving customers better wall coverage and refraction of light. This paint also has one of the lowest VOCs (volatile organic compounds) available.

One of the best things about Farrow and Ball is that it goes a bit further because of its composition.

It works amazingly well and is easier to use than chalk paint on furniture.

As far as whites, Farrow and Ball “All White” and “Wevet” have a nice soft finish, but my personal favorite is “Strong White,” which has a hint of gray.

Another warm white I use for ceilings and trim is Benjamin Moore’s Sebring White (OC-137). I’ve used Classic Gray (OC-23) on the walls with it. It’s amazing how warm and lovely these offwhite colors are.

-Sheilah Michaels

P h ot o gr a p hy by To m Cro u t ha m e l

Moyanne Harding, Interiors by Moyanne

One of the best things about Farrow and Ball is that it goes a bit further because of its composition, it works amazingly well and is easier to use than chalk paint on furniture.

-Moyanne Harding P h ot o gr a p hy by To m Cro u t ha m e l

One of my favorite whites is Benjamin Moore Winds-Breath (OC-24), a warm white with a slightly taupe/gray tint that looks great with slate and stone.

For trim, I really like to use Benjamin Moore’s White Dove (OC-17)—a very popular trim color.

Another warm white I use for ceilings and trim is Sebring White (OC-137).

I’ve used Classic Gray (OC-23) on the walls with it. It’s amazing how warm and lovely these off-white colors are.

However, there are so many beautiful whites to coordinate with wall colors, that I don’t limit myself to just one or two. It depends on whether the wall color is a warm tone or cool tone. I use the Benjamin Moore off-white colors deck and match the best white to the wall paint color. A really nice look is to use the same color on walls, trim and ceiling, but use flat paint on the ceiling, gloss on the trim, and matte on the walls.

One look at the Ben Moore off-white color deck and you will see the myriad of whites available. And don’t forget Sherwin Williams! So many painters use Benjamin Moore, but Sherwin Williams has some lovely whites. Summer White (SW 7557), Honied White (SW 7106), White Heron (SW 7627) and Snowbound, a bright white, (SW 7004) come to mind.

Sheilah Michaels, Sheilah Michaels Design Studio 34

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

My go-to paint store is Sherwin Williams. The guys at my local store are fantastic and always helpful.

For a crisp, clean white, I turn to Pure White Sherwin Williams (SW 7005). The proof is in the name ... Pure White!

Pure White This is a great color for trims and doors in a semi(SW 7005) gloss or gloss.

When using white on the wall, I use Ethereal White (SW 6182) or Grayish (SW 6001). Ethereal White has a high light reflection value, which measures the amount of usable and visual light that reflects or absorbs into a painted surface—so it feels like a brighter white. It’s ideal for basements or rooms without many windows. Grayish borders on many colors—cream, beige, gray and white. This is an ideal color for those who are maybe a bit scared of color but do not want a true beige or gray.

Depending on the walls or project, I usually go with an eggshell finish. It’s smooth to the touch and has a bit of dimension and an extremely subtle sheen.

Will Chambers, U-Fab

P h ot o gr a p hy by V irgini a H a mr i c k

The Benjamin Moore color Mayonnaise (OC-85) is a warm, creamy color that never turns beige or gray. It works particularly well in semi-gloss on trim next to walls of yellow, green or blue.

I generally prefer to use shades of white or offwhite, in a semi-gloss finish, on trim. And I typically prefer them in a flat finish on walls. I am a fan of several of Benjamin Moore’s white and ivory paint colors.

The Benjamin Moore color Mayonnaise (OC-85) is a lovely, warm creamy color that never turns beige or gray. It is particularly beautiful used in semi-gloss on trim next to walls of yellow, green or blue.

For 20 years, I have been a big fan of Benjamin Moore’s interior ready-mixed shades, Linen White and Navajo White. Linen White is a very subtle, barely off-white, and Navajo White is an off-white with undertones of beige. Both are classics!

For clients who prefer white trim, I like Benjamin Moore’s Simply White (OC-117). It is a lovely white, which never turns harsh.

Michelle Willis Adams, Residential and Contract Interior Design, LLC 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

White is truly a color; white isn’t just simply white anymore! But whites can be tricky; so many of them have an undertone, and if the paint is not mixed correctly, the end result may not be what you were looking for.

I LOVE layering white in a room. White really does need more white!

On the walls, ceiling and floors, it is important to layer the room with more touches of white through accessories, mirrors, upholstery, lighting and furniture then add splashes of color through pillows, lamps, throws, and even the warmth of rich woods. I also love using gold in a white room. And whites should definitely be used in rooms with lots of light.

I love to use white on architectural features, moldings and textured ceilings.

Normally a flat finish is preferable on ceilings—imperfections do not stand out as much—but a ceiling with a great design like coffers, trays or even something as simple as beadboard or planks of wood definitely calls for a semi-gloss finish. And semi-gloss should always be used on trim; I prefer the oil-base option for this application.

As far as specific whites, you can never go wrong with Benjamin Moore’s White Dove (OC-17). It is a very soft, warm white with just a hint of gray. I also love doing a fifty-fifty mix of two whites—White Dove and Decorators White. It truly makes a lovely, splendid creamy white.

Wendi Smith, Leftover Luxuries 35

THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE new developments

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN ALBEMARLE COUNTY

By H e at h er E . Tow e

Our area may be steeped in history, but options abound for new-home living. Here, we highlight several new-construction development options to fit almost every taste.

Whether you are looking for breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains or the convenience of living just moments away from downtown Charlottesville, you are sure find something to fit your family’s lifestyle. Each development hosts different builders who can custom design the perfect house. Take a look!

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C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

Old Trail Village

Belvedere Belvedere

Located off Rio Road minutes from downtown Charlottesville and the Route 29 corridor, Belvedere is an eco-chic, green neighborhood of three- and four-bedroom homes that is recognized for its green space, walkability and urban design. The vast amenities of Belvedere include protected green space, a walkable town center, village green and amphitheater, pocket parks, a dog park, athletic fields and a swimming pool. Additionally, an on-site organic farm is projected as part of the development. Belvedere offers five miles of walking and biking trails throughout its lush, nature-filled terrain.

Trails even connect to the Rivanna Trail. The trails along the John Warner Parkway connect all the way to McIntire Road and downtown Charlottesville, so residents can walk or bike downtown from Belvedere. 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

The developer, Stonehaus, requires that all homes built here be EarthCraft certified, which means that each house meets rigorous energy-efficient EarthCraft standards. The development is also home to “The Reserve at Belvedere,” which includes 294 luxury apartment homes and several townhomes.

Old Trail Village

Just 12 miles west of Charlottesville, Old Trail Village is located in historic Crozet. Set against stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Old Trail is a vibrant community of neighbors enjoying the pleasures of small-town living with the amenities of a modern development. Located in Western Albemarle from I-64, Route 250 and through Crozet off Route 240, Old Trail Village provides a mix of single-family and multifamily residences as well as commercial businesses,

restaurants and recreational facilities. It’s positioned in close proximity of vineyards, breweries, local food hubs, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Old Trail features a golf club, swimming pool, restaurants, coffee shop, nearby fitness facilities, and park and walking trails that wind throughout the community.

Local elementary, middle, and high schools are also conveniently located just outside the main entrance.

Old Trails’s development is composed of four interconnecting “villages” that offer a diverse style of new homes for all ages, each with unique neighborhood features, a variety of recreational opportunities, breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and all within walking distance to shopping, dining and community events. The East Village, which contains smaller homes close together in an urban environment,

Old Trail Village

offers unique architecturally enhanced cottage homes, patio homes, villas, village homes, courtyard homes and detached homes fronting onto small urban parks, natural open space areas and wetland/ water basin features. The West Village features high-quality homes, elegant brownstones and luxury villas, with some fronting the Old Trail Golf Club. The Village Highlands is a future development area that has sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains front range and direct access to the I-64 regional corridor, as well as the Route 151 Scenic Byway that is the home to several wineries, breweries, local food hubs, farmer’s markets and pick-your-own orchards. The Village Center includes a mix of dining, shopping and event venues, and a diverse selection of urban living including brownstone townhomes, attached villas, apartments over the retail center, and a senior housing community.

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Foothill Crossing

Situated in the heart of Crozet, Foothill Crossing is just minutes from The Square and downtown, just off Route 240 (Three Notch’d Road), next to Western Ridge and Stonegate.

The community contains a mixture of new single-family home floor plans on half-acre sites that includes one-level and two-story houses. The open floor plan designs are varied, ranging from nearly 2,000 to over 3,600 square feet, with the options to add over 6,000 additional square feet by opting for sunrooms, additional bedrooms and outdoor living space. Homeowners can also choose to include a main-level master, which is an increasingly soughtafter feature. Surrounded by woodland preservation area in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Foothill Crossing’s location provides breathtaking mountain views and ample outdoor activities.

Charming Crozet is home to 38

Foothill Crossing

Whittington

Hyland Ridge

Whittington

annual Independence Day celebrations as well as semiannual arts and crafts festivals and is conveniently located close to several wineries and breweries, as well as the Beaver Creek Reservoir Park and Old Trail Golf Course.

Hyland Ridge

Nestled between Fontana and Ashcroft in Albemarle County, Hyland Ridge offers classic single-family homes on halfacre sites, featuring stunning downtown Charlottesville and mountain views. The 97 halfacre sites have been designed to offer spacious rear yards, many backing to wooded preservation areas, streams or walking trails. There are seven preservation parcels ranging from 3 to 21 acres at the neighborhood summit, offering private panoramic mountain views.

Hyland Ridge is located minutes from downtown Charlottesville, with easy access to the downtown mall and other downtown areas

of activity. Its location, just off the 250 Bypass, gives easy access to I-64 as well as Martha Jefferson Hospital.

Pantops Shopping Center is practically right next door, so residents have an array of shopping and dining options at their disposal. Offering several architectural styles, including Colonial, Craftsman, traditional, farmhouse and one-level-living floorplans, Hyland Ridge is the idyllic community for anyone looking for a convenient location with the privacy that a half acre affords.

Whittington

Whittington is a 183-acre neighborhood located slightly south of Charlottesville off Old Lynchburg Road, with a short drive to Charlottesville’s downtown Mall and easy access to I-64. It offers 96 one-acre lots in a wooded environment, with plans that incorporate trails, ponds and picnic areas.

The community offers generously sized wooded homesites that feature gorgeous mountain views, as well as countless miles of wooded walking trails throughout Whittington and the surrounding area. Just three miles away, homeowners will enjoy the much-anticipated 5th Street Station Shopping Center, slated to open Summer 2016, which will feature retail outlets such as Wegmans, Field & Stream, Panera, and a multitude of other popular anchor stores and small shops. Also nearby are Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall, the University of Virginia and the UVA Medical Center. Homeowners will feel the privacy and seclusion that this new neighborhood has to offer and will also experience the convenience of being close to Charlottesville, as well as all major commuting routes and fantastic schools.

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SEE DOWNTOWN FROM YOUR ROOFTOP DECK. (YOU CAN WALK THERE TOO.) News like this travels fast!

Fulfill your dream of a new, efficient, and modern space with a rooftop deck and two-car garage in downtown Charlottesville. Make this concept your reality by choosing the RIDGEVIEW Townhouse in Burnet Commons.

Walkable to the Downtown Mall, the IX complex, acac, West Main Street, UVA Medical Center, and more.

Enjoy urban creature comforts like a rooftop deck; unfinished basement; 3 to 4 bedrooms; 2.5 to 3.5 baths; 2,017 to 2,384 sq. ft.; and a 2-car garage.

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The RIDGEVIEW in Burnet Commons Starting at $419,900 Contact Charif Soubra at 434.227.4191 or csoubra@southern-development.com | southern-development.com

0 a p hy by S u e L int hi cum P h ot o4gr

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

FirnewFarm Historic Home Meets Modern Concepts

By H e at h er E . Tow e P h ot o g r a p hy by V irg ini a H a m r i c k a n d S u e L int hi c u m

Near the Conway River, Firnew Farm has a magical air. Here, Trish Crowe and her husband, with the help of Architect W. Douglas Gilpin, Jr. FAIA, have transformed a 19th-century family home in Madison County into their dream home. Trish, an artist and illustrator who is passionate about her work and the art community, believes Firnew inspires those who visit.

Nestled among 172 well-manicured acres, their home—composed of a main house, a garage, a studio and an art gallery—hosts not only their growing family, but a strong community of artists who meet weekly to work on their masterpieces. The “farm” is home to a peacock, a cat, a dog and two goats. 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

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Archaeology Meets Architecture

The farmhouse at Firnew has an incredible history, which is still visible in various ways throughout the house. The house, originally constructed in 1812, was expanded in 1857 and has been modified several times since, with the last major renovation occurring in 2003 after the Crowes purchased the property. Trish and her husband preserved this history not only by restoring historic elements that had been literally buried through years of previous renovations, but also by maintaining parts of the house that clearly reveal its historic origins.

The largest footprint of the house is the original 1812 segment. On the right side of the main entryway of the house is a dining room which leads to what was, when the house was first built, workers’ quarters. When the Crowes purchased the house, this area had been modified substantially from its original use. There was, as Gilpin describes, a “goofy” half bath and what appeared to be a closet, which they needed to redo. As walls were deconstructed during the renovation, a winter kitchen was discovered beneath a small room in which the worker would have lived. Buried under layers of plaster and drywall lay a fireplace with a chimney, warming oven and cooking area. The rooms, which were an appendix to the house, were joined by a steep ladder or thin staircase, evident by the framework in the flooring in the room above. What had been the access point for the appendix has been converted into a window, and the restored lower-level room opens on the interior to a bathroom now featuring rich burgundy fabriclined walls and a copper-bowled sink.

A winter kitchen was discovered during the renovation beneath layers of plaster and drywall, including this remarkable fireplace.

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Historical details kept through the renovations include exposed beams and original timber framing.

The loft above the winter kitchen, which has been sealed off and is now a guest bedroom accessible only from the upper level, tells an interesting story of the house’s development over the past two centuries. The frame from the original access point remains in the floor, and along the opposite wall there are, like the rings of a tree, various iterations of the house’s exterior that are now part of the interior bedroom wall. On the opposite wall is a whitewashed chimney next to the original timber framing of the house. Trish says that she loved the exposed beams and preferred to leave them visible. She had just moved from England where this is customary, and stopped contractors from drywalling over them. The wall reveals that the original construction was a story and a half, with a small ceiling for the workers’ living quarters.

Bricks that protrude from the chimney would have held a roof. Next, in the 1850s, when the homeowners modified this area into a large wing, the roof was raised, which is evident in the framing above the original roofline, also on the wall.

The transition from 1812 to 1857 is evident all of the mantels in the house, which are original wood, as well as the windows, which are also original. As Gilpin describes, “The mantels in the 1850s are more flamboyant, with more whimsy; there is a design effect from the late Federal/Greek Revival period which shows a regional detailing often found in the Shenandoah Valley.” The windows speak to their respective eras, as well, even though they have been relocated. In a downstairs office, one window, which is smaller than the rest in the room and appears to be an anomaly, was clearly relocated from the winter kitchen to the new wall of the expanded 1857 addition. 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

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Firnew Farm makes a perfect home for the Crowes’ beloved farm animals.

A bustling community of artists is also welcomed here to be inspired by these idyllic surroundings.

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P h ot o gr a p hy by S u e L int hi cum

Historic Integrity, Modern Amenities

The house has a long history of being a family home, which is exactly what Trish wanted. The Conway family, the original owners of the property, lived there for 150 years. Trish says that she loves to think of the generations of that family that were born and raised in those rooms, and then raised their own families in that same house. Three Conway brothers, who were second cousins to President James Madison, moved to the area and had identical houses on the 1,200-acre piece of land that was deeded by King George II. The house was built like a town house to accommodate the next generation of Conways, with two center halls that do not connect upstairs and two separate entrances.

The house maintains this original structure.

Considering this quirky shape of the house, Gilpin says that it was a challenge to add a bathroom upstairs. To maintain the integrity of the house and add this amenity, he added a bathroom where there was a window. There are several steps down to access the bathroom, through which you can see the rooftop of the house. As part of the 2003 renovations, in addition this bathroom, the Crowes added a master suite with an exterior deck that opens to mountain views as well as a small interior deck with a railing that opens to the great room below. Trish says, “Doug [Gilpin] did a great job creating a porch that is new but feels old.

We wanted to keep the farmhouse feel. This bedroom is like a retreat.” With the renovations, the house has a great flow and energy, even though its original design was polarizing.

When determining materials to use in the house, Trish selected those that would be the most authentic, avoiding shiny marble and moving instead towards soapstone, reclaimed wooden beams and hand-molded brick. During the renovations, as they tore down a wall of 4 6

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what was an early 20th-century kitchen, its chimney crumbled. With her heart set on having a fireplace there, they searched for brick that would maintain the character of the original brick. After looking at several types, they found hand-molded brick from North Carolina to use in the new chimney and fireplace. In the basement, as they dug out the foundation of the house to accommodate the renovations, they uncovered a beautiful stone wall that was part of the original foundation. Once they made the find, they decided to keep the stones visible. Trish describes this period of excavation as tense and credits Michael Gallahue, an owner of Greer & Associates, the general contractors for this project, with providing solid structure for the house so they can showcase its history.

The window panes, too, reveal commitment to historical integrity in the design of the house. Gilpin points out that they wanted a way to make larger windows but keep with the style of the original windows. Therefore, panes used in the newest section of the house are in direct proportion to the older and much smaller windows.

He explains, “The 1812 section has a Piedmont style, which is late Federal and early Greek Revival and had a particular character at that time. But in the 1850s, glass technology improved, so people made larger panes. Where they built the wing on the east in the 1850s, the windows are larger and the woodwork more refined. So with this house, instead of designing it to be uniform, each [section] has its own history, character and architectural signature. Our larger windows, proportionate in size to the old ones, keep the feeling of an 1800s farmhouse. It worked out great.” Trish adds, “The beauty of doing a house and allowing yourself to be creative with a modern concept is that you can be sensitive to history but not completely held by it.”

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The kitchen’s beautiful lighting is provided by unique fixtures, such as the rustic wroughtiron chandelier above the dining table that hangs from a coffered ceiling, as well as spectacular sunsets visible through a wall of windows.

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Designing the Space

As work began on the main house, Trish turned the milking parlor, a smaller building near the barn, into her art studio, where she lived for two years while the main house was under construction.

Close by, she actively participated in the work that was being done on the house. She says, “The process of renovating a home is very personal. We were going to live there! As an artist and an illustrator, it’s the amazing design challenge: you can look at drawings, but it is so much easier to look at things in a three-dimensional space to really see what is going on.” Staying close to the activity enabled her to make decisions, like keeping beams visible and modifying plans as needed.

The kitchen, for example, originally positioned near the main entrance of the house, moved toward the back of the house. As they built, Trish realized that the original kitchen placement was a throwback to city life in London, where everything was together due to closer 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

confines and space limitations of city apartments. Guests now walk through the house to reach the kitchen, which creates a flow when they entertain. The kitchen’s beautiful lighting is provided by unique fixtures, such as the rustic wrought-iron chandelier above the dining table that hangs from a coffered ceiling, as well as spectacular sunsets visible through a wall of windows.

The late, esteemed landscape architect Ian Robertson designed the outdoor spaces. While most landscapers are brought in toward the end of the design process, Trish enlisted his advisement from the very beginning. One of the first changes they made was pulling down the bindweed that covered the trees and obstructed the gorgeous 360-degree mountain views from the homestead.

When they first purchased the property, guests and contractors parked close to the home. Robertson had suggested sweeping the driveway around the house and tucking parking away, so that cars are not visible from the house. Trish describes

his work, which created a great flow and aesthetic, as “masterful.” Robertson also added and moved existing boxwoods to create a casually separated outdoor space, which is very much like another room of the house.

Preservationists at Heart

Trish and her husband have preserved the history of the house as well as the feeling of an ageless landscape. The house has a geothermal heating system, which is entirely out of sight from the property, so there are no big condensing units or systems to obstruct the mountain views.

Trish recommends this type of system, not just for energy conservation purposes but also for aesthetics, because the system is quiet. They also opted to bury the power lines, per the recommendation of Steve McLean, real estate broker and owner at McLean Faulconer, Inc., who told them that it would forever change the landscape. Gilpin says, “Without power lines, the area has the feeling that it could still be the 19th century.”

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After the main house renovations were complete, Trish Crowe converted the barn into an art gallery where 30 artists meet each week to exercise their artistic passions.

They have also taken steps to ensure that their property will continue to be preserved. As long-term board member and current president of the Blue Ridge Foothills Conservancy, Trish has a keen focus on community awareness for the land. Firnew Farm is under a conservation easement, a program in which private landowners limit the development rights of the land in exchange for tax credits. Gilpin says, “This farm will always look like this and can’t be subdivided. If Trish and her husband ever sold it, the purchaser would have to be as good a steward of the land as Trish and her husband.”

The Perfect House, and So Much More

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Trish says that she was drawn to the house as soon as she saw it. She has enjoyed the discoveries of history buried within, admitting that while their intention was to build a great family home, they were pleasantly surprised with the resulting restoration. She also loves the wonderful feeling that she gets from the property. She says, “The house faces perfect North, South, East, West, which is how they built back then. It looks onto Allen Mountain, and directly above appears the North Star. There is a certain magical quality here. This place inspires everyone and opens up the mind. It seems to have a spirit of its own.”

Trish has started an artist group that meets at the farm. Soon after the main house was finished, she opened the art studio to a group of artists who come to paint on Thursdays. The group has been growing for 12 years and now has 30 artists each week with a waiting list. In a further expansion of her passion, she converted the barn into an art gallery, with the help of Alex Vargas, who manages the farm as groundskeeper. Inside the silo, the original wood has been refinished to maintain a rustic look, art pieces hang on recycled doors, and the silo itself has become a place to show art and host ethereal musical performances.

Firnew Farm has become a special place for many. Trish says, “We love it here. It is the perfect house when it is just the two of us together.” It is also the family home that she wanted.

They have five grandchildren and she loves to fill the house with family. She also finds it perfect for entertaining; they have hosted two weddings for their children. The success of her artist group is also a testament to the energy and beauty of Firnew Farm.

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Next to the back stairs hang original concept sketches by Gilpin. After they bought the house and he was creating the plans, Gilpin drew free-hand concept sketches on tracing paper of the first-floor design with conservatory, family room and kitchen area in the back, second floor with master bed and bath, and a side elevation. He comments, “It didn’t change much. Trish was able to visualize and understand the concept, and that is basically what we have now.” Gilpin also credits project architect/manager Peg DeMallie for her role in this special project. “Peg was instrumental in taking my concept sketches and translating them into the final construction drawings, and also worked closely with the Crowes and Michael [Gallahue] of Greer and Associates throughout the construction,” he says.

Looking back, Trish says, “It’s amazing to go back and think about what we started with and the work we have done that seems like it must have been there forever. We had the right design people.

The stars were in alignment with this one.”

As featured in this issue of

Charlottesville HOME

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

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THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE buy vs. build

BUY VS. BUILD

By H e at h er E . Tow e

Purchasing a home is a big decision—possibly the most expensive one you’ll ever make.

Ensuring that your home is going to support your lifestyle and please your senses will most likely require some planning and effort.

If making a big change is on your horizon, you may choose to buy an existing home and renovate it to your standards, or build a custom home. While both processes have their advantages, there are distinct differences that will make one a better fit for you, depending on your needs.

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Buying and Renovating

Buying an existing home may be more attractive than building if convenience, location, financing or timeframe are concerns for you. Compared to the effort and attention to detail involved in constructing a new house, buying a resale is very convenient. When shopping for a resale, most of the major decisions have already been made: the land has been developed, conditions for electric, water and waste systems have been established, building permits have been obtained, and the footprint of the house and landscaping are already in place. Instead of engaging

in the construction process, which can include developers, builders, general contractors, architects and interior designers, your efforts are limited to working with your real estate agent to secure the house, and your loan officer to secure your financing.

Location plays an important role in deciding to purchase an existing home when you want to live in a specific area that is already developed. In older communities and within city limits, new construction can be limited or cost-prohibitive.

Financing is another huge factor, as financing a preexisting home is usually easier than financing new construction. However, if

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you are buying a home that requires a lot of work, you may want to obtain a renovation loan. Renovation loans can be trickier than traditional mortgages. While new construction loans involve the entire construction process, thus accommodating more moving parts, renovation loans are limited to cover the work that is under the scope of the specific project. Both may require a higher down payment.

Timeframe is also a major factor in deciding to renovate an existing home. When you make an offer on a home you want to purchase, you can usually close on the home and move in as little as 45 days.

This is especially important if you have a deadline such as a lease ending, the sale of your current home, or relocation to a new city. Once you move into the house, renovations can happen on your schedule. You may want to renovate one room at a time as you live there, or handle the most pressing concerns immediately, and wait to renovate other areas later.

While purchasing an existing home means that it may not be the “home of your dreams,” as long as you like the location and the overall structure of the house, a lot can be done to modify it to suit your tastes. Nikki Benedikt, local resident and Corner-area salon owner, is currently renovating an existing home she recently purchased. For her, location and the potential she saw in the home were incredibly important. She says, “I am currently splitting the house into two separate living spaces. Also, I really wanted a huge backyard with a rockin’ patio. This house has the best of both of those and it’s super secluded! Perfect location, but with a country feel smack dab in the middle of city. Can’t ask for anything better!” 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

Custom Building

There are many advantages to building a new home, with the biggest being that you are much more likely to get exactly what you want. While the process can be labor intensive, it doesn’t have to be. Additionally, new homes are typically more energy efficient, which can cut down on monthly bills, help the environment and create a higher level of comfort within the house. Finally, building a new home means installing new systems and appliances and knowing both the quality and nature of the underlying construction, which can save you money in the long run.

Inventory in the housing market is tight and although it has been growing, its growth has been slow as the market improves. Many times, options are slim and homebuyers struggle to find a house that meets their needs. Instead of settling for a house that lacks many of the elements you want, custom building will give you the chance to get exactly what you want. Building a new house can be as detailed or as hands-off as you like. If you prefer to engage on a daily basis, you can hire a team of professionals and work with them continually through the process; however, if you are busy and want someone else to handle the details, you can find a builder who will take over the process for you. Quinn Beversluis, sales director for Jefferson Area Builders, says that his company helps potential homebuilders from start to finish. “We handle the red tape issues like soil feasibility studies, looking into access right-of-way easements and other factors, taking the work from our clients and building it into the cost of construction. Additionally, we recommend partners that we

Instead of settling for a house that lacks many of the elements you want, custom building will give you the chance to get exactly what you want. Building a new house can be as detailed or as handsoff as you like. work with who have a proven track record to guarantee the highest quality work across the board.”

Newer homes are typically far more energy efficient than older homes, with construction advances resulting in a “tighter seal,” meaning fewer drafts in doors and windows. Newer energy building codes result in

better standards for heating, ventilation and cooling systems (HVAC), insulation and air filtration. Better efficiency is good for the environment and can save money on utility bills each month. New homes are also less likely to contain elements that can cause health concerns like asbestos, lead paint or mold.

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New construction also provides the benefit of the homeowner knowing the age of the systems and the quality of materials used in the home. When you build, you know that the systems and appliances are new, which means that you most likely defer maintenance expenses for things like your roof, HVAC and kitchen appliances. Also, when you work with contractors and builders you trust, you can eliminate the surprises that can come with renovating an older home.

While new construction usually takes six months to two years from start to finish, there are circumstances in which homebuyers can purchase a new home in less time. If you are limited in your timeframe and don’t necessarily prefer to custom build, you can purchase a “spec” home or a model home. Both are built by a developer before a sales order exists. Spec homes are designed to fit the builder’s specifications, and model homes usually showcase the builder’s more expensive upgrades.

While sacrificing the ability to make the home uniquely yours, purchasing an already-existing new home provides all the other benefits of new construction—without the wait.

Whether you decide to purchase an existing home and renovate it, build a custom home from scratch, or buy an already-finished new house, there are many options for homebuyers. When planning your next move, consider all the options. Beversluis says, “Often, homebuyers don’t consider new construction at first. Once they have exhausted the market and cannot find what they want, they look into custom building.”

Because buying a home may be your biggest purchase, make it your best by knowing your options.

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n GARDEN HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK

Historic Garden Week Tour 2016

The Garden Gates of F lordon P h ot o g r a p hy by S u e G o u l d m a n

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ach spring, visitors are welcomed to over 250 of Virginia’s most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks during The Garden Club of Virginia’s Historic Garden Week. This 8-day statewide event provides visitors a unique opportunity to see unforgettable gardens at the peak of Virginia’s springtime color, as well as beautiful houses sparkling with over 2,000 flower arrangements created by Garden Club of Virginia members.

Locally, Albemarle-Charlottesville Historic Garden Week events will be held April 23-25, hosted by the Charlottesville Garden Club, Rivanna Garden Club and Albemarle Garden Club. On Sunday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors can tour five private 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

properties in the picturesque, secluded neighborhood of Flordon a few miles west of Charlottesville. The Flordon tour is available only via shuttle, with offsite parking at the University of Virginia Foundation, which is located on the grounds of the Boar’s Head Inn. Parking is not permitted at the houses or on the roads in Flordon. The last shuttle departing for tours is at 4:15 p.m.

Many consider the local tour the cornerstone of this three-day experience—but a revered aspect of the Albemarle-Charlottesville tour occurs on the days preceding and following the local tour. On Saturday, April 23, Morven Estate House and Gardens, now owned by the University of Virginia, will be open to visitors. The tour begins at 10 a.m. and concludes at 5 p.m., weather

permitting. On Monday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the University of Virginia will open with no admission charge many areas of special note. These include Pavilion gardens and homes, Carr's Hill and the Morea Garden and Arboretum. A lecture on the Morven estate as a learning laboratory will be offered on Monday afternoon at the Harrison Institute.

Tour proceeds fund the restoration and preservation of Virginia’s Historic Gardens and Virginia State Parks. See www.vagardenweek.org for pricing and complete schedule information and visit “Historic Garden Week in Charlottesville & Albemarle” on Facebook.

Here, we offer a preview of what’s in store on Sunday’s local tour in Flordon.

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Credenhill

Built in 1938, this stone Georgian home with formal and informal gardens was designed

by Marshall Wells, who also designed Westminster Church in Charlottesville. An azalea-lined drive circles in front of the arched front entrance, which is surrounded by hellebores, epimedium and mature chestnut and pin oaks. The interior of the home features beautiful woodwork, arched doorways and large French doors that open onto the terraces and gardens. Charles Gillette designed the original landscape, but much of it has been changed through the years. The azalea garden with vistas to a neighboring farm remains the most true to his design. Stone pathways lead to a boxwood garden, an azalea garden, and a water feature surrounded by white azaleas. A slate pathway scattered with bleeding heart and shade plantings leads to a secluded swimming pool surrounded by tall trees. Just outside the kitchen door is a chef’s garden filled with a variety of herbs and vegetables, including lettuce, kale, collards, spinach and mixed greens. The path beyond the chef’s garden meanders past daffodils, lilies of the valley, rhododendrons and Japanese maples to a guesthouse. This home was open for Historic Garden Week in 1968.

The Burns Home and Garden

Built in 1961 and extensively updated by the current owners, this home sits atop a ridge offering spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The landscape includes numerous gardens, courtyards, pergolas and terraces featuring a variety of plantings including laceleaf Japanese maples, lilacs, roses, salvia, daffodils, tulips, boxwoods, azaleas, dogwoods and pieris japonica. A stone and crushed-gravel parking courtyard provides a welcoming entrance. A recently updated chef’s kitchen connects to a family room with an enormous fireplace that was part of the original kitchen. An exposed brick sunroom opens on to a large terrace with outdoor fireplace and an outdoor kitchen, which overlooks a reflecting pool centered by a heron sculpture designed by Charlottesville native Caroline Hanson.

Across the sprawling lawn is a stone pool house with a seating area and wet bar. Pool plantings feature succulents, boxwoods and large containers. The putting green offers mountain vistas. Mary Anne and Stephen Burns, owners.

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The Moga Home and Garden

This classic Dutch Colonial has been extensively updated by the current owners. The sun-drenched, eclectic interior includes animal motifs intermingled with the owner’s collection of American folk art, 18th- and 19th-century painted furniture, and decorative arts. Relics and whimsical touches fill every corner, including a tall-case Whiting clock, a smokehouse cupboard, a collection of Hannah Davis bandboxes and other early wooden bride’s boxes. The dining room features an antique salvaged table, a New England highboy, a Portsmouth chest and a collection of American Windsor chairs. Significant 19th-century quilts grace the first-floor rooms. A large family room with slate floor opens to a backyard filled with azaleas, rhododendrons, tree hydrangeas, Japanese maples and ferns. Steps from the patio lead up to a swimming pool surrounded by magnolias and a collection of vintage birdhouses, dovecotes and cupolas, all guarded by a large 1860s cast-iron garden sculpture of a retriever. Additional sculptures are tucked into the surrounding gardens. Daisy and David Moga, owners.

The Granville Garden (Garden only)

Set among mature, tall trees, this informal garden combines plantings in a landscape designed for children to run and play. From the wooded, circular driveway, a pachysandra-lined path leads past daffodils and azaleas to the backyard. The back deck creates natural views toward a shaded woodland garden with wood poppies, bleeding hearts, azaleas, dogwoods, hellebores, ferns, jack-in-the-pulpits, oakleaf hydrangeas, and Japanese maples. The sundrenched lower level features a formal boxwood garden with climbing roses on trellises placed above a deer’s reach of the blooms. Doublefile viburnums bloom at the end of the boxwood garden. A children’s playground is nestled in the back corner of the yard with landscaping offering an abundance of places to play hide and seek among the tall trees and lush shrubbery. Mr. and Mrs. David Granville, owners. 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

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The Brown Home and Garden

This stately residence is an example of gracious living with young children. The circular drive features views to the east and enhances a painted brick house with an entrance surrounded by tulip poplars, narcissi, pieris japonica, and a shade garden of hellebores, hostas, and a variety of ferns. A Chippendale-style balustrade caps the front entry. Built in 1962, the home was significantly updated in 2006 and 2011. The interior features the owner’s sketches of her children, unusual light fixtures, and elegant mirrors. The large gourmet kitchen opens to a window-lined family room with fireplace and a sitting area leading to a screened porch with slate floor and outdoor fireplace. Plantings around the back porch include Korean spice viburnum, boxwoods, deutzia, candytuft, fothergillas, Arnold Promise witch hazel and hydrangeas. A grove of tulip poplars lines the spacious back lawn, offering plenty of room for children to run and play. Crepe myrtles, roses, tulips, and a variety of herbs and vegetables in planters surround the outdoor terrace.

Various recreational areas for children include swings and a half-court basketball court.

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n IMPROVE DEALING WITH DRAINAGE

Rain Gardens Natural feature makes the most of soggy areas

By R o ry R h o d es

April showers bring May flowers—and sometimes, they bring mud and other soggy problems to your landscape.

If your garden has drainage issues, or if you’re just looking to add a charming natural feature to your property, have you considered a rain garden?

A rain garden is essentially a low spot in the terrain, lined with plants and permeable materials, that is designed to capture rainfall and allow it to soak into the soil. It’s an especially useful feature in Virginia, which enjoys upwards of 40 inches of rainfall annually. In the suburban landscape, roofs, driveways, patios, and even compacted lawns produce runoff which can, if not properly managed, cause issues in your home and garden. While gutters, downspouts, drains, and sump pumps are all effective (though not particularly romantic) methods for managing and directing excess water, a rain garden can be a helpful, attractive part of the plan.

Having a rain garden is beneficial in several important ways: It can help prevent costly damage by redirecting water away from structures; it helps control erosion, standing water, and soggy lawns; it aids in preventing water pollutants from joining streams or the water table by capturing and filtering them through soil and plants; and it provides habitat for wildlife. Not to mention that it looks fabulous—far more appealing than a mushy patch of grass! 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

Location & Planning

The first and most important thing to do when installing a rain garden is to figure out the right location. During the next rainfall, take note of where the water goes. Does it run down your driveway? Do downspouts empty into your garden? Your rain garden will need to be situated in a low spot where water either runs or can be directed. You won’t want it to be near any structures on your property, including retaining walls, and you’ll also want to make sure it’s not too close to your property boundaries, where it could overflow onto neighboring gardens or sidewalks. A good guideline is to leave three to five feet of clearance from boundaries, and ten feet from your structures.

Make sure there’s nothing beneath the spot you’ve chosen, and always call Virginia 811 for a utility survey before you dig!

Ideally, the spot you’ve chosen will receive runoff, be relatively flat, and have good drainage. Adjustments can be made to improve the site, however. Downspouts can be repositioned if needed, and water can be directed to the rain garden by means of pipe or a swale, which is a low channel dug into the soil to funnel water through the landscape. If the rain garden is situated on a gentle slope, a berm (man-made mound) can be built on the downhill side to improve water retention. Rain gardens need well-drained soil or they’ll overflow, so if your site has compacted or clay soil, amend it with compost to improve drainage. Fine gravel can also be incorporated if necessary, but it might be best to avoid sand if you have clay, because certain types of clay and sand can actually stick together and make the soil compaction worse!

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Southern Grace Gracing Your Life, Home & Garden

On cool spring evenings friends and family gather around and enjoy the relaxing sound of water and the soothing warmth of our Fire Fountains.

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5309 South Seminole Trail | Madison, Virginia | 540-948-2239 Construction & Materials

Once you’ve got your spot and conditions are right, dig your rain garden about 18 inches deep, and amend soil as needed for drainage. Make sure the rain garden basin is level and that the perimeter is gently sloped to avoid erosion of the sides. Take care that any excess water will not run toward buildings or directly onto your neighbor’s property.

In the lowest level of the rain garden, plant species that can handle periodic saturation. If drainage is especially slow, consider native rushes, sedges, wetland species such as Sweet Flag, or even pea gravel or river stone. (Stones can also be used in a connecting swale for an attractive, dry-creekbed appearance.) For the middle portion of the rain garden, many types of ferns do well in damp conditions; Maidenhair, Christmas and Cinnamon ferns are some varieties to consider.

For the top level, you can install pretty much any kind of plant that will work with your area’s soil and light conditions. You might want to put shorter varieties around the edges where they will be visible, and place taller ones inside or a bit lower on the slope. Extending the plantings you use for the rain garden out into your yard will help blend it into the landscape.

As far as specific plants to consider, native species are preferable if you can find them. They will have the advantage of being more readily adaptable to your site and its conditions. Ask your local nursery for recommendations. Otherwise, shrubs such as red twig dogwood, holly, and swamp azalea, and perennials like liriope, coneflower and aster will provide visual interest and help anchor the soil with their root systems. Using a mix of evergreen and perennial plants will provide year-round interest, 6 0

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

while planting fairly close together will help control weeds and erosion. When creating your garden layout, be aware of each plant’s fully grown dimensions so that you can space plantings accordingly and design a rain garden that will allow the various plants to be seen.

Once the plantings are in, top it off with some mulch to help control weeds and retain moisture while the plants become established. Use a heavier mulch that won’t float away in heavy rainfall, and be sure to water regularly during the first season while root systems are developing. Your rain garden will need occasional maintenance to ensure it doesn’t become clogged with sediment, and you may find that you need to move or replace certain plants because of varying degrees of wetness around the area.

With a bit of planning and some muscle, you can turn a problem area into a pretty landscape feature. Building a rain garden will not only create an enchanting and environmentally conscious focal point on your property, it will ensure that, when wet weather comes, nothing will rain on your parade.

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THE REAL ESTATE ISSUE financing your dream home

MONEY MATTERS Financing the home of your dreams

By B eck y C a lv er t 6 2

Home ownership is the quintessential American Dream, dating back to our country’s pioneer days and the homestead acts of the second half of the 19th century. These days, you don’t have to be willing to forge life on a homestead for a specified amount of time to acquire your own little spot to call home, but rather, you can apply for a mortgage to help finance the home of your dreams. While there are some that might think the process of living on a claim in order to make it their own is easier than financing the purchase of a home, applying for a mortgage is not as complicated as you might think.

Recent changes in the regulations concerning mortgages have made it “easier and more straightforward for consumers,” says Jason Witt, vice president and loan

officer at Bank of the James in Charlottesville. Enacted October 3, 2015, these new regulations are known as “TRID,” which is really an acronym for an acronym: the TILA (Truth in Lending Act)/RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) Integrated Disclosure rule.

TRID regulations are part of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which was a reaction to the great recession of 2008 and launched what is known as a “Know Before You Owe” campaign. As part of TRID, a loan estimate is issued at the time of the loan application, and a closing disclosure document is required to be issued at least three days prior to closing, spelling out the monthly payment as well as all the costs involved in obtaining a mortgage and closing the loan.

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e M a r c h /A p r i l 2 0 1 6

With low rates and a housing market that has stabilized, now might be a good time to make that purchase you’ve been pondering.

While these changes have added time onto the process, lender timelines vary as to exactly how much time.

Mortgage rates have been at historic lows in recent months. You may have seen headlines regarding the Federal Reserve’s rate hikes last December, the first since 2006, in response to a solid US economy. Despite the hike, both 30- and 15-year fixed interest rates have stayed low, even dropping a little. According to Robert Falconer, loan officer at Union Mortgage Group in Charlottesville, “While the US economy is doing reasonably well, the downturn of the Chinese economy along with the precipitous decline in oil prices have combined for a flight to quality in certain bonds—like those used to price mortgage-backed securities.”

With low rates and a housing market that has stabilized, now might be a good time to make that purchase you’ve been pondering. Both Witt and Falconer agree the best first step in buying a home is setting up a meeting with a local banker—someone who understands the local market and economy. At that first meeting, you’ll share your goals with the lender, who will recommend a mortgage to fit your distinct needs and talk you through the preapproval process. 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

“Having a clear understanding of what you can afford is the important first step toward buying a home,” says Witt. Your lender will help determine what price range is best for you without compromising your lifestyle, as well as share any programs and financing options for which you may be eligible.

Your lender will also share a list of items you’ll need to provide at that first meeting, which should include income documentation, and may request more as you go through the process. If you have credit issues, advises Witt, a banker should be able to walk you through resolving those as well. It is key that you have established credit when applying for a mortgage. While many of us aren’t comfortable with racking up credit card debt, it is actually best to keep a small balance on a credit card to keep your credit history alive, recommends Witt.

Once you’ve gone through the process of getting preapproved for a mortgage and have a good handle on what you want to spend, you’re ready to begin working with a local Realtor. As with a lender, you’ll want to work with a real estate agent who has experience with the local market as well as the price range you are interested in. A good place to begin finding both professionals is by asking a variety of friends for 63

recommendations, learning what they liked and didn’t like about their experiences. Any number of unexpected events can pop up on the road to home ownership, but working with experienced, trusted professionals can help you navigate it successfully.

In working with a Realtor, one of the first things he or she will ask is what is you are looking for in a home—this includes not just price and location, but features. They will guide you through what is available in your price range until you find THE ONE. It is advised you stay in contact with your lender during this process, keeping them apprised of your search, so that upon making an offer and having it turn into a ratified contract, your lender will be able to deliver your financing commitment based on your pre-approval, contingent upon appraisal of the home you wish to purchase. A home appraisal looks at the condition of the home as well as comparable sales of three to five similar properties over the previous six to 12 months in the area—a critical final step in the loan approval process. Both Witt and Falconer recommend that having everyone involved—real estate agents representing both sides (buyers and sellers), lenders, appraisers and lawyers handling the closing—be on the same page early and every step of the way for a smooth process toward realizing home ownership.

Navigating the path to home ownership can seem overwhelming, but working with professionals who understand the local market and economy can help ease your journey. The first step is just learning how easy it can be.

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n LIVE AROUND TOWN Get Ideas and Inspiration at Home Show

The 43rd Annual Blue Ridge Home Builders Association’s Home Show will be held April 2-3 at John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville, presented by Savvy Rest Natural Bedroom. As the largest and only trade show of its kind in Central Virginia, this show offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the newest and best innovations in building concepts, green technology and remodeling solutions.

The show will be open to the public Saturday, April 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission and parking are free; however, donations for the Albemarle Housing Improvement Program (AHIP) at the door are highly encouraged. Donations of $20 and more will be entered into a prize drawing.

Donations will help keep local seniors, neighbors and children “Safe at Home” by assisting with critical home repairs and rehabs. To help raise public awareness about the hazardous living conditions some local families face on a daily basis, and how AHIP’s programs help protect their health, safety and assets, the event will showcase before and after examples of major home repairs recently completed

by AHIP. For more information, visit www.brhba.org or contact Kristin Sorokti at (434) 973-8652.

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

Also part of this exhibition, in the KAG Gallery, is the black and white photography of PVCC staff member Sherice Paige, called “Sherice’s Pieces.”

The photographs explore the intersection of the natural and man-made world. For more information, visit pvcc.edu/finearts-and-performance.

Design House Event Announced

PVCC Exhibition Features Local Artists

Enjoy a taste of local art in an exhibition running through April 6 at Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC), featuring the work of Trish Crowe and the Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle. PVCC’s North Gallery features “Saints and Angels,” a series of watercolor paintings

by Trish Crowe. Inspired by the terrain surrounding her Madison County home (Firnew Farm, as featured in this issue of HOME), Crowe’s work depicts fields, farms and the animals within. Rendered with her signature strong lines and vibrant colors, the works evoke the energy and beauty of nature.

Crowe brings another project, the “Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle,” to show in the South Gallery. The circle is a group of 35 artists who work in a variety of artistic mediums and also find inspiration in the Virginia countryside and culture.

Crowe founded the group as a way for fellow artists to come together to make, show and talk about art. Over the past 12 years, the group’s mission has expanded to include providing scholarships and mentoring area art students.

The Firnew Farm Artists’ Circle includes works by Leslie Barham, John Berry, Maria Festa Carter, Anne Dean, Frances Kloker Lacy, Sue Linthicum, Lou Messa, Jon Perry, Lis Piatt, Carole Pivarnik, Chee Kludt Ricketts, Janice Dunn Rosenberg, Mack Rowe, Bertha Scholten, Patricia Temples, Tina Wade, Fran Wohlfelder, Richard Wyvill, Richard Young and Sharon Zarambo.

Mark your calendars: This year’s Charlottesville Design House event, benefiting the Shelter for Help in Emergency, will begin May 7. Each year, a Charlottesville-area homeowner generously extends the use of his or her house for the Design House event.

Designers and their vendors, assigned to individual rooms and spaces, showcase their talents and the latest interior design styles and techniques. The result is a unique tour for visitors, where each room reflects a designer’s creative vision and provides endless and inspiring ideas for the home.

This year’s Design House promises the ideal venue for such an undertaking.

Situated in the picturesque grounds of Keswick Estates, the classic home with its blend of fine materials will provide the backdrop for the generous contributions of designers and other Design House participants. Nestled in the rolling acres of Keswick’s fine equestrian farms, the 2016 Design House will offer a beautiful house tour for area residents and visitors alike.

For over 37 years, the Shelter for Help in Emergency has provided free, confidential services to victims of domestic violence and their families in Charlottesville and the surrounding community. Design House is the shelter’s signature fundraising event to sustain those services and programs while educating the community about its work.

With Design House, Shelter for Help in Emergency hopes to offer a tangible reminder of the home we would wish for each person in our community: a haven of love and laughter, free from fear and violence. No matter how different the structures of our dwellings may be, surely they can all share that quality at heart— because peace on earth begins at home.

Design House 2016 will be open to the public May 7 through 22.

Tickets will go on sale in April. Visit www.cvilledesignhouse.com for more information.

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