Central Virginia HOME Magazine 2024 Apr/May

HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK take the tour & get inspired

WHAT’S ALL THE BUZZ? protecting pollinators

BASEMENT MAKEOVERS transform your lower level

ALUMINUM RAILING

GLASS RAILING

PERGOLAS

VINYL FENCING

spring Ready to into action

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A REAL ESTATE CONCIERGE…

me anytime for a

PRESENT. As a Concierge Agent, I strive to focus on excellent customer service and putting my clients’ needs at the forefront of every transaction; from the first time we meet, to the closing table, and for a lifetime. I stay aware of the needs, fears, apprehensions, and desires of my clients every step of the house purchasing or selling journey.

AVAILABLE. I take phone calls, respond to text messages, and return email promptly. This also means remaining in constant communication with you, so that you feel I am with you every step of the way and that you are valued as my client.

analysis or buyer/seller consultation. As Your Concierge Realtor, I can help you from start to finish with your buying or selling needs in 2024. Ask me about my all inclusive packages!

KNOWLEDGEABLE. As a tenacious agent, I strive to know the market well, stay current on all of the latest marketing tools available (and that work), and offer excellent real estate advice throughout your decision to buy, sell, or invest in real estate.

RESOURCEFUL. Something I always say to my clients is, “If there is a way, I will find it!”

Whether that be by way of helping connect you with a vetted list of service providers to help prep your home for the market, prep a house you purchased to feel more like home, or even in having to find solutions to the plethora of issues that can arise in a real estate transaction. I am there for you every step of the way with all of the best resources, knowledge, and determination it takes to make your experience buying or selling a pleasant one!

VALUABLE. On closing day (and beyond), I want you to feel that my service offered a high

buying or selling. I am not just there to put a sign in the yard or open a

Providing a concierge real estate experience encompasses everything above, and in

provides the utmost value TO YOU.

GOOD FOR THE LAND AND GOOD FOR YOU

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CHRISTINA MOORE

90 DISCO

BY LAUREL FEINMAN

107 DESIGN

BY KATE ERICSSON

53

JERRY HALE

102 HIDDEN

BY MARTHA COFFEY

31 CONSERVATION

BY CARTER HEALD BENDALL

65 NUTRITIOUS

SLOANE LUCAS

112 HISTORIC

86

60

I highly recommend Nadine Blakely. When I was very pregnant with my second child, she helped us sell our first home. She then helped us find the perfect new home - just in the nick of time before having our baby!

WE WERE IMPRESSED WITH HER COMMITMENT AND WORK ETHIC, AS SHE WORKED ALL HOURS OF THE DAY TO GET THE JOB DONE.

When my in-laws were looking to downsize, we immediately referred them to Nadine. She helped them sell their 4 BR home and find the perfect, senior friendly condo. Fast forward a couple years, and we knew exactly who to call when my parents wanted to move back to Lynchburg from Charlotte, NC. Even with the difficult market right now, Nadine found my parents a wonderful home - just a few miles down the road from us! She worked with my parents to virtually view homes with them when they were out of state. We used Nadine fora second home sale!

If you have any buying orselling needs, don’t hesitate to call Nadine. She will work hard to help you, whateveryour need orbudget may be!

WE HIGHLYRECOMMEND HER.

Her meticulous attention to detail during the whole process brought us peace. She had our best interest at heart and her marketing is above reproach! THE FLYTHROUGH VIDEO WAS AWESOME. We recommend her for buying or selling! You’re the best Nadine, we love you!

Joe Spagnolo, SELLER CLIENT

I recently had the pleasure of working with Nadine (AGAIN!) to sell and stage my home, and the experience was nothing short of outstanding!

18 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

It was a great experience to have Nadine represent us as homebuyers.

Her warm personality, knowledgeable input, and professional approach made home buying a memorable experience. She was very considerate and represented our interests well. WE WOULD HIGHLYRECOMMEND HER TO ANYONE LOOKING TO BUYANEWHOME!

Denny Koshy BUYER CLIENT

Nadine not only sold my home in record time but also took the extra step to expertly stage it, showcasing its full potential. Her keen eye for design and attention to detail truly set my property apart, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that undoubtedly contributed to the swift sale. Nadine is so committed to her clients.She kept us informed every step of the way, answered all our questions promptly, and provided valuable insights to help us make informed decisions.

I highly recommend Nadine to anyone in search of a top notch REALTOR® who not only delivers results, but goes above and beyond to exceed expectations.

Thank you, Nadine, for making the sale of our home a smooth and successful experience! And for helping us get into the next home tooWE’RE SO GRATEFUL!

Karen Ackerman, BUYER & SELLER CLIENT

“There is no time like Spring, When life’s alive in everything…”

— Christina Rossetti

As nature bursts into bloom, it feels as if all things are new again. There’s something fragrant and hopeful that fills the air like no other season. With that inspiration, we have tried to infuse this issue of HOME with optimism and joy!

When I was a little girl, we had indoor-outdoor orange and brown carpet in our wood-paneled den and a mesmerizing lava lamp that sat atop our wood-grain console TV. Yet, when we talk about 1970s-inspired design today, it’s as if we lifted the very best of that decade and infused it into a 2024 aesthetic. Laurel Feinman explains how you can be groovy — and stylish — in her design article in this issue. What’s more joyful than disco?

Carter Heald Bendall’s article on the Cartons’ showcase home in Amherst epitomizes how a family’s life story can inform lovely and personal design choices. You’ll soon understand why they needed a shipshape plan for retirement, and why Amherst was the perfect spot for it.

We loved learning more about the conservation efforts taking place across Central Virginia. There are pollinator gardens popping up all over! It’s important to understand why we need native plants, especially for the bees. Ginny Smith takes a sweet look at why local honey is the best. Did you know it can even help with some health issues? You’ll think of

the birds and the bees a little differently after discovering the wonder of honey and pollinator gardens.

When I first heard of the Enneagram, I was having coffee with my friend Joanna about seven years ago. She talked about this personality model that provided interesting insights in nine categories, but which is quite dynamic with wings and subtypes. Since then, I’ve taken a deep dive into books and podcasts and found it to be a useful resource for better understanding myself and others. In this issue, we see how our Enneagram type might inform our design style. When I first read Kendall Atkins Livick’s description of a 2’s home, I had the feeling that she had peeked into my home!

We also share the simple things that make us all happy: a perfect grilled cheese, board games (and much more!) in the basement and Historic Garden Week in Virginia coming up — always a treat in Lynchburg.

From what’s trending in design to tips on setting up a charging station for your electric vehicle to cycling in Central Virginia, we hope you’ll find something that makes you want to take flight this season. Joyful reading to all!

“The birds around me hopped and played, Their thoughts I cannot measure: — But the least motion which they made It seemed a thrill of pleasure.”

— William Wordsworth

Donna Dunn | donna@jamesrivermedia.com

www.agnesdowdyre.com | 1003

Altavista | Campbell, Pittsylvania & Bedford Counties | Leesville & Smith Mountain Lakes | Lynchburg

Shelley

Carter

Mitzi

Becky

Martha

Kate

Laurel

Jerry

Kendall

Sloane

Christina

Ginny

Michael

Donna

Kirsten

Julia

Lisa

Joe

Anne

Kenny

artist concerned. As such, James River Media, 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, James River Media, 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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Oh, honey!

NUTRITIOUS & DELICIOUS

BY GINNY SMITH

More than just a natural sweetener, honey has been used for thousands of years for its sweet flavor and its medicinal benefits. Whether you pour it on your pancakes or rub it onto a burn, honey is a household staple that no home should be without.

Busy bees

When the weather warms and plants begin to flower, honeybees leave their hives to gather nectar and pollen and then return for the process of making honey. “Bees will travel 2 to 5 miles from their hives to collect nectar,” notes Ann Zudekoff, member of the Piedmont Beekeepers and the Peaks of Otter Beekeepers. “They always return to the hive they left.”

Back at the hive, these busy bees deposit the nectar into honeycomb cells. They then fan their wings to extract the excess water and seal the cells with a waxy substance. Beekeepers remove the waxy substance and scoop out what is now the honey. A single bee produces about 1/12 of a teaspoon of honey per lifetime, which is only about 5 to 6 weeks. With proper care, a typical hive may yield about 50 pounds of surplus honey per year.

“A pound of honey is about a cup and a half,” notes Zudekoff. “Honey has a reputation as being a food that never spoils. While it’s true that honey will last, you’ll never get better honey than the day it comes out of the hive.”

Life is hard enough right now. Everyone... I mean everyone is feeling the economy. I know there’s a lot on your plate.

On top of everything else, some of you have dental problems; a broken tooth, lingering pain, or not the greatest smile. You would love to do something about it, but well, there are so many other things.

HERE’S THE PROMISE: THE PROMISE:

Come in and we will figure something out. I’ve spent the past thirty years training in dentistry. There exist some clever ways to give you back your smile or “hold you over” for awhile. No pressure. So call, maybe I can take one thing off your plate.

Sweet satisfaction

If you’re simply stirring a teaspoon of honey into a mug of hot tea, the flavor of each specific type may be lost. To really note the individual essences, try spreading some honey on a piece of toast or a biscuit or just spoon a bit right out of the jar! Since honey comes from the nectar of plants, there’s simply no way to quantify the variety available. Each plant contributes unique flavors and colors, from light to bold in taste, from yellow to brown in color.

Much of the honey in this area is wildflower honey. Wildflower is a subtle, sweet honey that’s good in teas and is wonderful paired with sharp cheddar cheese on a charcuterie board. Also in this area, you’ll find sourwood, black locust and clover are good choices for a light honey. Buckwheat is a bolder, darker honey. Other flavors to look for: lavender, sage, orange blossom, dandelion and alfalfa.

If you want to try a variety of honeys, attend a club meeting in your area. Many clubs will offer an annual tasting event and members often bring their own honey to meetings to share with attendees.

Pure honey is tasty on its own, but infused honeys are flavorful treats as well. You’ll find honey infused with bourbon, spices, herbs, fruits, vegetables and more to provide a unique taste and offer wide appeal.

“Hot honey” has become a fad in recent years. Spicy peppers are added to the sweet liquid, resulting in a spicy/ sweet combination that gives your tastebuds a thrill. Zudekoff recently won an award for her hot honey at a convention in Kentucky. “I added Carolina reaper peppers to my honey,” she explains. “Just a bit. Nothing to blow your head off. The sweet, then spicy explosion worked really well.” Her entry was one of 1,100 at the convention.

Medicinal value

In addition to its use as a natural sweetener and a delicious treat, honey also has the reputation for medicinal value. “Most people like honey for its effect on seasonal allergies,” notes Laura Carwile, manager of George’s Seed, Feed and Grow Shop in Forest. “Since bees are grabbing the nectar and pollen from trees and plants in your area, you can introduce yourself to the allergens a little at a time by enjoying local honey. Then, when everything is in full bloom, your allergy symptoms may not be as bad.”

Rich in antioxidants, antibacterial and boasting anti-inflammatory agents, honey has been used for centuries as home medicine to treat a variety of acute and chronic illnesses. Honey has a positive impact on blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and when compared to white sugar, honey has a smaller effect on blood sugar in those with diabetes. Honey also improves gut health; it doesn’t ferment in your stomach like refined sugars do.

People often use honey for a simple sore throat or even for serious wounds and burns. Honey kills bacteria, thus medical-grade honey is sometimes used on bandages for burn patients. Honey can be rubbed on rashes to reduce skin irritations, and you can even eat the honeycomb! For children under the age of 1, ingesting honey is not recommended.

As with any purchase, it’s wise to read the label carefully. Some imported honey in large box stores is pasteurized or contains additives. “For pure honey, buy it straight from the beekeeper,” says Zudekoff. “Meet and chat with the beekeeper. It’s the honey, not the bottle, that’s important.”

Zudekoff recommends buying the honey at local farmers’ markets or looking for a local apiary, a location where hives of bees are kept. Apiaries vary in size from a hobbyist’s hive to a commercial operation.

Soils, fertilizers, and amendments from Foxfarm, Coast of Maine, Espoma, Gaia Green, Dakind 420, Down To Earth and many more

Huge selection of bird feeders and bird seed

Animal feeds from New Country Organics, Tribute Horse Feeds, Diamond Dog & Cat Foods and others

Local honeys, produce (seasonal) and Virginia’s Finest Foods

Unique gifts

Lawn & garden supplies and plants

The buzz on beekeeping

If you’re interested in beekeeping, organizations such as Piedmont Beekeepers and Blue Ridge Beekeepers are great places to start. Carwile, in her role as manager at George’s, works with all the beekeeping groups to provide needed supplies. “We have starter kits for about $200 that come with everything you need (except the bees) to get started: frames, base, inner and outer covers.” George’s also sells honey from five local beekeepers.

Zudekoff was careful to warn firsttime beekeepers. “There’s a reason we call it beekeeping and not honey collecting,” she laughs. “That first year, the emphasis is really on growing your colony. Lots of factors go into actually being able to harvest honey: the strength and health of the colony, the weather, the beekeepers, a little bit of luck. It’s different every year. The focus is really on the bees and, if you get honey, that’s a plus.”

The Virginia Beekeeping Teachers Consortium conducts classes annually through local clubs for those wanting to become beekeepers. Even if you’re not interested in beekeeping, you can positively impact the honey supply by planting native pollinator-friendly plants in your yard.

Nutritious and delicious, honey can be stored on your table and enjoyed in recipes or straight out of the jar! Its yummy goodness combined with its medicinal uses will make you want to head right down to your local farmers’ market.

Honey Baked Cinnamon Pears

4 medium pears

3 Tablespoons of honey

2 Tablespoons of butter

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Peel pears with a vegetable peeler, cut off the ends and then halve the pears. Scoop out the core. Place the pears face down in a glass baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the honey, cinnamon, vanilla and butter and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds. Pour half of the sauce over the pears. Bake for 25 minutes until soft and slightly brown. Pour the remaining sauce over each pear before serving.

PHOTOS: JAMES RIVER MEDIA

Bee city

Central Virginia buzzing with conservation efforts

COURTESY OF HEIDI JAMES, BLUE RIDGE CONSERVATION

BY CARTER HEALD BENDALL

Central Virginia organizations have been hard at work campaigning for the conservation of natural resources with the promotion of native pollinator gardens. Research shows that 40 percent of the pollinator species on earth are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss and pesticide use. By simply adding a few native plants to your yard, you can help counteract the overuse of non-natives.

You may be asking, “Why are native plants so important?” The answer lies in the relationship between pollinators requiring a particular host plant as their food source. If these host plants are not available, the pollinating population dies off. Examples of native plants include coreopsis, butterfly weed, blackeyed Susan, smooth blue aster, narrow leaf sunflower, bee balm and summer phlox. Native trees include red and sugar maple, river birch, redbud, fringe trees, umbrella trees and dogwoods. A successful pollinator garden has at least two native perennials blooming each of the three seasons

GARDEN native pollinators

PHOTO

SWEAT BEE & CONEFLOWER

Blue Ridge Conservation

One of the local groups working to help combat this is Blue Ridge Conservation (BRC). This is a joint committee of members from both the Lynchburg Garden Club and the Hillside Garden Club, both of which are members of the Garden Club of Virginia. BRC is actively promoting the importance of planting native plants in our gardens that are pollinator friendly. They have planted four acres of pollinator beds along local highways.

Another project of the BRC was to obtain the certification of “Bee City” for the city of Lynchburg. BRC used the framework provided by the national organization called BEE City USA, in collaboration with Lynchburg Parks & Recreation department. Lynchburg Parks & Recreation helped the BRC usher the Bee City designation through city council in 2019, becoming only the second city in the state to achieve this status. Soon after, the BEE City Working Committee was established that has become a highly effective and cooperative group that works on all kinds of conservation issues in the area. The City of Lynchburg has committed itself to planting native plants, reducing pesticide use and preserving the nesting sites for native pollinators.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTE BIBEE, BRC

Furthermore, Blue Ridge Conservation has implemented a certification program that provides a guide for families to create a pollinatorfriendly habitat. Their website, blueridgeconservation.com, provides a great list of native plants to strive for, as well as seasonal garden checklists to help gardeners keep on top of what they should be doing. The six-step application for obtaining a pollinator certified garden is also on the website. Enter your address, check off which flowers and trees you have in your garden and then vow to decrease your pesticide use as well as try to remove some invasive plants.

Once the application is approved, the BRC will mail you a sign to place in your yard, commemorating your status and helping to spread the word. Local neighborhoods and civic groups have had contests to see who could get the most gardens certified. If you could get your neighbor to join you, you could create a “pollinator highway” across our state and even our nation.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTE BIBEE, BRC

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEIDI JAMES, BRC

AMERICAN BUMBLEBEE & FALSE BLUE INDIGO

MONARCH BUTTERFLY & PURPLETOP VERVAIN

International expertise

Blue Ridge Conservation worked with the Parks and Recreation department of the city of Lynchburg and the Lynchburg BEE City Committee again to bring internationally acclaimed and best-selling author Doug Tallamy to Lynchburg at the end of September 2023 for a speaking engagement. Tallamy, a professor in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, studies how insects interact with plants and how these interactions determine the diversity of animal communities. For his work, he was awarded the Garden Club of America Margaret Douglas Medal for Conservation.

Watch a video from Blue Ridge Conservation that explains the importance of pollinators.

Tallamy created the Homegrown National Park (HNP), which is a grassroots organization aiming to regenerate biodiversity by planting native plants. Tallamy says of our gardens, “In the past, we have asked one thing of our gardens: that they be pretty. Now they have to support life, sequester carbon, feed pollinators and manage water.”

On the HNP website, users can add their pollinator garden to a map of all the others in the USA — an interactive community-based visual that will show each person’s contribution to planting native by state. In his efforts, Tallamy has written three books, including “Nature’s Best Hope ” which he discussed at the speaking engagement.

On the heels of Tallamy’s talk, the City of Lynchburg was awarded the Garden Club of Virginia’s Elizabeth Cabell Dugdale Award for Meritorious Achievement in Conservation for its dedication to environmental stewardship and conservation, a high honor. When presenting the award, Marie Thomas from the GCV said, “The city’s dedication to environmental preservation, sustainable development, and fostering a harmonious relationship between its urban landscape and nature sets an inspiring example for communities across the nation.” Lynchburg can truly be proud of their hard work.

It has been said that the hum of bees is the voice of the garden. With continued efforts and with so many local organizations working together, the bees are raising their voices to levels that haven’t been heard for many years. ✦

PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTE BIBEE, BRC

PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTE BIBEE, BRC

PHOTO COURTESY OF HEIDI JAMES, BRC

MILKWEED

DOGWOOD

BEE & BLUE ASTER

SWEAT BEE & WILD GERANIUM

POLLINATOR GARDEN — ELIZABETH’S EARLY LEARNING CENTER

ILLUMINATINGstyle

A spotlight on current accent lighting trends

BY CHRISTINA MOORE

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, accent lighting has emerged as a pivotal element in creating ambiance and highlighting key features within a space. Among the myriad lighting options available, accent lighting stands out as a versatile tool to highlight architectural features, illuminate artwork or simply add ambiance to a room. In this article, we delve into the current trends in accent lighting and offer insights on how to choose the perfect accent lighting to complement your design style, size constraints and functional needs.

What’s trending

As we look at 2024 trends, accent lighting styles continue to evolve, reflecting a fusion of contemporary aesthetics with a nod to timeless elegance. One notable trend dominating the scene is the resurgence of vintageinspired designs. Retro-chic lamps featuring brass finishes, sleek silhouettes and artful detailing are making a comeback, adding a touch of nostalgia to modern interiors.

Additionally, eco-conscious consumers are gravitating toward sustainable materials and artisanal craftsmanship. Handcrafted lamps made from reclaimed wood, recycled glass or sustainable metals not only elevate the visual appeal of a space but also contribute to a more environmentally friendly design ethos. Also, minimalist designs remain ever popular, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and understated elegance. These sleek and streamlined lamps seamlessly integrate into contemporary interiors, providing a subtle yet impactful accent.

PHOTO: KATHRYN FELDMANN

Choose your aesthetic

Accent lighting is a powerful tool for enhancing a room’s design style. From minimalist to maximalist, there’s a lamp for every preference.

n Minimalist marvels. For those favoring a minimalist approach, sleek and understated designs take center stage. Think slim, monochromatic lamps with clean lines and geometric shapes. Matte finishes in neutral tones are particularly trending, seamlessly integrating into contemporary spaces.

n Vintage vibes. Vintage and retro styles continue to make a comeback, influencing lamp designs with a touch of nostalgia. Look for fixtures with brass or copper accents, tapered shades and iconic mid-century modern silhouettes. These lamps not only provide warm, ambient light but also serve as a nod to design eras of the past.

n Eclectic elegance. The eclectic style embraces diversity, allowing for a mix of patterns, textures and colors. Lamps in this category often feature unique materials, bold colors and unconventional shapes. Experiment with mismatched lamps that complement rather than match, creating an engaging visual tapestry within the room.

Right sizing

Selecting the right-sized lamp is crucial in achieving a harmonious balance within a room. Oversized lamps can overwhelm a space, while undersized ones may fail to make a visual impact. Here are some guidelines to consider:

n Proportional placement. In larger rooms, opt for taller lamps with broader bases to fill the space effectively. Conversely, in smaller spaces, lean toward compact and slender designs to avoid crowding.

n Visual weight. Consider the visual weight of the lamp in relation to its surroundings. A lamp with a heavy, ornate base may require a larger room to maintain equilibrium, while a lighter, airy design can complement more confined spaces.

n Functionality & placement. Beyond aesthetics, the lamp’s intended function should guide its size selection. A bedside table lamp, for instance, should be proportionate to the nightstand, while a floor lamp in a reading nook should provide sufficient light without overpowering the area.

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Sustainable options

In an era of increased environmental awareness, sustainable lighting options have gained prominence. Designers and consumers alike are seeking eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies in accent lighting.

n Energy-efficient LED lighting. LED technology continues to advance, offering energy-efficient alternatives to traditional incandescent bulbs. Lamps equipped with dimmable LED lights not only save on energy costs but also allow users to adjust the ambiance according to their preferences.

n Recycled materials. A growing trend in lamp design involves the use of recycled and upcycled materials. From lamp bases crafted from reclaimed wood to shades made from recycled fabrics, these environmentally conscious choices contribute to a more sustainable design ethos.

n Smart lighting integration. The integration of smart lighting systems provides users with unprecedented control over their accent lighting. From adjusting color temperatures to setting automated schedules, smart lamps cater to the tech-savvy while also contributing to energy conservation. 1STNATBK.COM

Personal touches

As the demand for personalized living spaces continues to rise, customization options in accent lighting have become more accessible. Brands are offering a range of choices, from customizable lampshades to bespoke finishes, allowing users to express their unique style.

n Mix & match. Embrace the mix-andmatch trend by selecting lamp bases and shades separately to perfectly align with the overall design of the room.

n Personalized finishes. Many manufacturers now offer customizable finishes for lamp bases, providing a unique touch that complements existing furniture and décor.

n DIY lampshade revival. Give old lamps a new lease on life by revamping the lampshade. DIY enthusiasts can explore various fabrics, paints and embellishments to create a one-of-a-kind accent piece that reflects their personality.

Beyond the lamp

While lamps remain a popular choice for accent lighting, there are several other accent lighting options to explore, each offering its own charm and functionality:

n Wall sconces. Ideal for illuminating hallways, accentuating architectural features or framing artwork, wall sconces come in a variety of styles and finishes.

n Pendant lights. Perfect for adding drama and visual interest to dining areas or kitchen islands, pendant lights offer both ambient and task lighting while making a bold style statement.

n LED strip lighting. Versatile and energyefficient, LED strip lighting can be used to highlight architectural elements, create backlighting for shelves or cabinets or add a modern edge to furniture pieces.

Accent lighting serves as the pièce de résistance in interior design, elevating the ambiance and functionality of a space while reflecting personal style preferences. By staying attuned to current trends, considering design style, size constraints and functional requirements, you can effortlessly choose the perfect accent lighting to illuminate your home with flair and finesse. So, let your light shine! ✦

PHOTO: MICHAEL PATCH

PHOTO: KATHRYN FELDMANN

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meets design Enneagram

What does your personality archetype dictate about your preferred style?

BY KENDALL ATKINS LIVICK

If you’ve ever wondered why certain décor styles appeal to you, while others don’t, personality archetypes may hold a clue for this mystery. Examples of famous personality type tests, include the Myers-Briggs, The Big Five, Human Design and the Enneagram. This three-part series focuses on the latter and the archetypes that embody the philosophy. This first installment will cover numbers 1-3.

The Enneagram is based on an ancient system that has roots in a variety of religions, including Christianity, mystical Judaism and more. The theory describes nine categories of personality we see in our midst. If you don’t know your type and want to find out, you can find a test online. You may recognize yourself in one or more of these numbers, and personality typology could be one more tool to nail down your personal design. 1 2 3

A quick overview of all the types

1

Ones, the reformers, are logical and always ready to live in alignment with their principles and ideals. They are intentional in their way of life, self-disciplined and perfection seeking. They want to live in a way that is objectively virtuous and correct.

2

Twos, the helpers, are the natural caretakers of the world. As born hosts and hostesses, they come across as warm, giving, nurturing and inviting. They want to make others feel adored and accepted, and they may have a tendency to become territorial or overprotective of those they love.

3

Threes, the achievers, are ambitious, driven, success-seeking and focused on image. They chase their big dreams and are highly motivated to hustle in pursuit of the next goal. They want to challenge themselves and perform well to impress others and gain admiration.

4 Fours, the individuals, are the sensitive artists of the world. Fours can express themselves in dramatic ways, experience mood swings and come across as melancholy. Yet, they are old souls with a poetic flair.

5

Fives, the investigators, are intellectually curious, highly intelligent and typically introverted. They are passionate about researching their areas of interest and prefer to spend much of their time in solitude, in order to process their thoughts and manage their energy.

6

Sixes, the loyalists, are community-oriented and relationship-focused on their lifelong friends, family members and inner circle. They show up in our world as dutiful contributing citizens who embrace critical thinking. Although they can have a tendency to worry, they can also channel fear into creating security and preparing for a rainy day.

7 Sevens, the enthusiasts, are focused on the pursuit of fun and adventure. They are flexible, yet difficult to pin down at times, due to their scattered nature. They focus on positivity and finding the silver linings in life. If times get rough or intolerable, they yearn to flee to greener pastures.

8 Eights, the challengers, are tough bulldozer types who wield power and force. They are full of confidence, competence and determination. They also do not shy away from confrontation and tough conversations. Instead, they address conflict head-on with an assuredness of victory.

9 Nines, the peacemakers, are sometimes referred to as the “sweethearts of the Enneagram.” With their good-natured vibes, they tend to go with the flow. They are pleasant to be around, affirming toward others around them, naturally empathetic and accommodating. They go along to get along and have an air of natural lovability about them. 1 2 3

Wonderful one

Ones are the perfectionists of the Enneagram. Called the “reformers,” ones are on a quest to live in alignment with their ideals. Whatever their brand of excellence, you will see evidence in their home. You might walk into a home gym, where they work up a sweat if fitness is their thing. An office will reveal career ambition. Their kitchen could be stocked with healthy, organic food if healthy living is a cause they support. While visiting a one, you will likely admire their integrity and pursuit of their goals. They embody selfdiscipline and a principled life. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a few new goals to pursue and moral perspectives that may or may not lead to a complete change in lifestyle.

If you identify as a one, you probably have an eye for precision and tend to prefer clean lines and minimalism. Classic architecture, neutral colors, open floor plans, natural light pouring in through the windows and high ceilings offer plenty of space to rest and anchor the thoughts in a busy mind. You’ll

want to highlight your intellect, so be sure to have built-ins for awards or a gallery wall for diplomas and certificates. Many ones are into green living and may be drawn to the biophilic design style. If this sounds like you, check out Scandinavian, Japandi and Industrial design styles for some one-derful inspiration.

We Understand Commitment

Tasteful two

Twos are the quintessential hosts. If any of the archetypes know how to roll out the red carpet for guests with big love, it’s a two. Embellishments that are extra special and bring about a sense of nostalgia are typical in their homes. A displayed quilt that honors ancestors, for example, or relics passed down the family tree, will be proudly presented. Displayed pictures of loved ones are a guarantee. Depending on other personality factors, where they fall on the minimalism versus maximalism scale may vary. Either way, their home is guaranteed to feature some element of traditionalism. Extra special touches of hospitality, such as a coffee bar, quick snacks and a general flow pattern in the kitchen for quick and easy navigation can be expected. They will be less likely to turn away unexpected company, and they will immediately snap into the role of host even when surprised. When visiting a two, guests feel wrapped in a warm hug. In their home, you will feel like you can immediately relax into the atmosphere. It will mean the world to them if you reciprocate and pull out some extra stops the next time they visit you! 2

Thematic three

Threes are most likely to have a specifically curated look to match their aesthetic vision. Image-conscious with an eye for style, threes have an eye toward the future. They tend to gravitate to a contemporary style with bold patterns. Their homes are likely to feature large statement light fixtures and lots of modern art adorning their walls. Threes also won’t be shy to incorporate bright, contrasting colors. Although this group isn’t as traditional or nostalgic as twos, they might hearken back to days gone by if it’s a new spin on an old style. If you visit a three, you will feel impressed by their fast-paced lifestyle and ability to stay ahead of trends. Threes are go-getters who always have their sights set on the next accomplishment. They want to make the most of their lives and push their potential to the brink. Whether it’s a hobby, a chosen vocation, a pet project or a personal passion, they strive to be the best of the best and always on the receiving end of applause. Because of the boundary-pushing nature of the threes, it’s not uncommon for them to take on hefty renovations to accommodate a new passion or goal. Imagine the new rock climber constructing a climbing gym in the attic, or the aspiring botanist creating an elaborate landscape in the front yard. For this reason, the spotlight usually finds them.

If you identify with this group, you’ll most likely highlight many wow factors in your home. Pops of color will capture the eye of onlookers, and the latest styles and trendy touches will be the name of the game, as these different elements and knickknacks compete for attention. If this sounds like you, seek inspiration in Contemporary, Postmodern and Art Deco design styles.

Join us in the next issue to continue the fun with types 4-6. ✦

Celebrating Years!

Mills Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. was founded by Garnett A. Mills in July of 1984 from his home. He realized the need for a professional, reliable, locally owned & operated HVAC company that could provide comfort to the homes of residents in the greater Lynchburg Metropolitan area. After a decade of hard work, the offices opened on Hummingbird Lane in Spout Springs, where they operate today. In May of 2005, Garnett unexpectedly passed away. Forty years later, his dedication to community & quality service can still be found at Mills Heating & Air Conditioning. We still honor his legacy by promoting positive involvement within the community and providing an unmatched level of customer service to our customers as we continue to “Bring Comfort To You.”

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AMPED UP

BY JERRY HALE

With the steady growth in the number of hybrid and all-electric cars, trucks, vans and SUVs being offered by U.S. and overseas automakers, more and more vehicle buyers will be considering whether “juice” from the power grid should replace all or part of the gasoline they’ve been purchasing.

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Just imagine: Pull into the garage, connect the car to the onwall charging station and head inside. A few hours later, your ride will be “fueled” and ready to go. With an 80- to 330-mile, full-charge range (depending on make and model), an allelectric vehicle (EV) is more than adequate for most Americans’ daily driving needs – estimated at just 30 miles by AAA.

For that vignette to play out, however, drivers must be able to charge their EVs at home between trips. EVs typically come with a charging cord that can be plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet. But for the faster charging times that most EV owners prefer, their garages must be equipped with a Level 2 charging station – hardly a DIY task unless one happens to be a master electrician.

Time to call in the experts

Lynchburg’s Wired Up Electrical is one company that can provide the materials and know-how necessary to get the amps flowing.

“Most of our customers already have a Level 2 charging station suitable for their car or truck,” says Dalton King, one of Wired-Up’s three certified charging station installers. “So our job is to install the dedicated 240-volt, 50-amp service line [like those your oven and clothes dryer use] that is typically required for full charging in eight hours or less.”

The cost for running that line and installing the appropriate outlet (or, in the case of some higher-end EVs, hard-wiring the charger into the circuit) averages about $500, but is highly dependent on the distance between the nearest main electrical panel and the charger. Accessibility for snaking the wiring from your main service panel to your garage can also be a cost factor.

Preferring to avoid any fire safety issues from charging his Tesla indoors, Timberlake resident Bill Shafer recently hired Wired Up to install a 240-volt outlet adjacent to his garage. “I’m hearing enough reports of battery fires during charging that I just wanted to be extra cautious,” Shafer said.

If you’re building a new home or adding a garage, you may wish to include an outlet for plugging in a level 2 charger as part of your basic wiring plan, Wired Up’s King says. “Even if you’re not driving an EV now, it’s highly likely there will be one in your future. It’s cheapest to get the wiring and outlet in place during your build so you can simply mount and plug in any brand of

240-volt charger when the time comes.”

Super-fast chargers, like those typically found at commercial roadside charging locations, require 200-400amp circuitry. Charging time goes way down, but cost for the installation increases considerably.

Lead time for getting a charging circuit installed typically runs 2-3 weeks from the time an estimate is approved, King says. “We’ll come out and do a free estimate, but customers who have decided on an electric or hybrid vehicle are often in “whatever-it-takes” mode and are eager to get the job done as soon as possible.”

Special rates for EV charging may be available

Some electricity providers in our area are offering discounts of up to 15 percent for EV charging that occurs during off-peak hours, usually 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., plus weekends and holidays. Danville Utilities also offers customers registered for their time-of-use rate program a $200 rebate on approved Level 2 chargers; AEP rebates $100 to customers who purchase ENERGY STAR-certified charging equipment. Dominion Energy customers earn discounts by participating in a program that limits charging availability during periods of high demand. Participants use an app to “opt out” of the limitation up to 45 times a year. Check with your energy provider for details on these programs.

Is an EV right for me?

It depends. Car buyers should consider their own driving patterns when making that decision. Plug-in EVs are costly, with luxury models from the most respected brands commanding well over $100,000 when new. Economypriced models are available, however, and advances in battery technology are steadily improving range, performance and longevity. EV batteries are typically covered by warranties lasting up to 100,000 miles.

The cost of installing home-charging capabilities should be rapidly offset by lower operating costs: AEP cites typical annual gasoline costs for driving a full-sized vehicle 12,000 miles, at average $3.59/gallon, to be $1,346. In contrast, an EV that gets charged at their off-peak rate will require only $422 in electricity.

Drivers who want to use EVs for road-trip travel may need to plan for necessary recharges along the way. Charging stations are becoming increasingly common at hotels/motels, rest-stop retailers and auto dealers as EVs become more popular, and apps are available to help you find recharge locations along the way. EV enthusiasts, it seems, rather enjoy doing the planning necessary for an extended drive. ✦

Since 1996, Rush Homes has had a vision; A vision where everyone, regardless of income and disability, lives in homes and communities where they can thrive. Rush Homes is a local organization, solving a local problem with local support. Rush Homes provides accessible, affordable homes for people with disabilities, enabling them to live with independence and dignity. James River Media’s Mari White serves on the Board of Rush Homes and sat down with Executive Director Tracey Ballagh to talk about Rush Homes.

Mari: Tracey, if you had 30 seconds to tell someone about Rush Homes what would you say?

Tracey: I would say that since 1996, we have been a beacon of hope for individuals with disabilities. By providing stable and accessible housing, we address one of the most fundamental needs of individuals and families in Central Virginia, especially those with disabilities and low incomes. Stable housing is more than just a roof over one’s head; it is the cornerstone of well-being, offering a sense of security, dignity, and a platform for growth and opportunity.

Mari: And what does stable housing mean to our community?

Tracey: Stable housing creates healthier families with more fulfilling lives—and therefore a stronger community for all of us. We’re fortunate to live in a community where neighbors want to help each other. Not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because we genuinely care. So many Rush Homes residents – and those who hope to be our residents – have never experienced stable housing. We know that without stable housing there are worse health outcomes, greater inability to afford other necessities, loss of independence and self-confidence and decreased community involvement. Stable housing means less community medical needs—with related taxpayer costs and strained hospitals, less reliance on other public services, less absenteeism from school and work, and much more.

Mari: I know Rush Homes has just celebrated the grand opening of another development. How many Rush Homes are there?

Tracey: Florida Terrace, a 31-unit development of one- and two-bedroom apartments brings our total number of homes to 130. As is our goal with all of our developments, Florida Terrace is near public transportation, shopping and

DID YOU KNOW?

The most recent Census data shows Lynchburg is short 4,585 affordable housing units.

“Before I came to Rush Homes, I was 41 years old and living in substandard housing that, although tagged as ‘accessible’ was far from meeting my needs. I became quadriplegic at age 17 after a diving accident. I have no use of my legs and limited use of my arms. For 24 years, I wasn’t able to even feel the running water of a shower because I couldn’t get into the bathroom.

But after four years on the waiting list for Rush Homes, the call came that there was an apartment available. I’m proud to show off my home, where I am able to move freely. Every aspect of my home works for me, from the kitchen with a front-control stove and rollunder sink, to the roll-in shower. When I first saw my bathroom, I said ‘I can take a shower… God, I can take a shower!’ I found a new lease on life.”

-Bill

health care, among other things. One of the things that makes Rush Homes such a great place for our neighbors with disabilities and low incomes is that each unit has energy-efficient washers and dryers. Imagine how exciting it would be to do your laundry at home instead of getting to a laundromat! Rush Homes is just as interested in Quality as we are Quantity. We’re committed to meeting the need that exists in our area and our developments are EarthCraft-certified and fully accessible to a high standard with roll-under sinks, roll-in showers, wide doors, frontcontrol stoves and much more.

Mari: Rush Homes has an exciting event coming up. Tell me about that.

Tracey: Rush Homes is excited to be hosting what we hope will be the first annual Parade of Playhouses! Five local builders – Modern Oak, Seven Ridges Construction, Penny Lane Properties, LG Flint, and Tom Graham (who happens to be our maintenance technician) are all building pretty fabulous playhouses that will incorporate as many features of accessibility as possible. These playhouses will be on display around town (so be on the lookout as you’re out and about), and everyone will have the opportunity to buy raffle tickets. Then, on April 27, 2024, we’ll draw the winners at our Parade of Playhouses, which will be held at Bank of The James Stadium. The event is free and open to the public. There will be games, face painting, food trucks and a whole lot of fun for a great cause. We want the whole community to know who we are, what we do, and how they can join in to make a difference.

BY THE NUMBERS

130 450+ 1% 69% 331 $20 $29.9M

Number of Rush Homes in the greater Lynchburg area, with more underway

Number of people served by Rush Homes

Number of individuals/families on the Rush Homes wait list

Amount of money Rush Homes has brought to the local economy since 2011 through the development of affordable housing

Return for each dollar donated to Rush Homes

Rush Homes’ eviction rate. The average eviction rate in Virginia is 14.9%

Percentage of Rush Homes families whose annual income is below $12,000

APRIL 27 1:30 – 4:30PM

BANK OF THE JAMES STADIUM

DID YOU KNOW?

APRIL

The most recent Census data shows the median gross rent in Lynchburg is $946 per month.

www.rushhomes.org

GOODNESS Cheesy

Super sandwiches

grilled to perfection

BY BECKY CALVERT

Photography by James River Media

Grilled cheese sandwiches are so simple to make that it’s often the first thing many of us learn to cook. The ultimate comfort food, they round out a bowl of soup for a meal or can stand alone as a perfect snack. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, grilled cheeses create endless debates as to how to best achieve the desired result of perfectly toasted bread and melted cheesy interior: sliced versus grated cheese, butter versus mayonnaise on the outside of the bread, exactly what type of bread is best and that’s not even getting into the best cheese debates.

You can get lost in the details, but the basic elements are sliced bread, cheese that melts easily and a wellgreased surface. Cook it over medium to low heat, so that the outside cooking process takes as long as the inside and voilà! The perfect grilled cheese sandwich.

There are any number of variations out there that can elevate the sandwich to higher levels. Adding jams, mustards, sautéed or roasted vegetables, meats, sliced fruit as well as experimenting with different cheeses make for a whole new take on grilled cheese. Make them with waffle irons or feed a crowd with sheet pan grilled cheeses, made en masse in the oven.

From basic to next level, here are a few recipes to get your creative grilled-cheese wheels spinning.

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Diner-Style Grilled Cheese

Restaurants, particularly diners, always have the best grilled cheese sandwiches. Their secret? Lots of fat on the bread, cooked over a low heat on a griddle, with a good melting cheese like American. If using mayonnaise on the exterior, coat it very thinly and smoothly. This is a time when you’ll want to use real mayonnaise; the low-fat versions or Miracle Whip will not produce the same results.

2 slices of bread

2-3 slices American cheese, white or yellow

Butter, softened, or mayonnaise

Heat pan or griddle over medium-low heat. Thinly spread one side of each slice of bread with butter (or mayonnaise). Place one slice buttered (or mayo’d) side down onto heated pan, and top with cheese. Place remaining slice, buttered side up, on top. Cook for about 3 minutes or until bread is toasty and brown. Turn sandwich over, and cook the other side until brown and toasty. Serve. Yield: 1 serving

Waffle Iron Ham & Cheese

For a grilled cheese that’s perfect every time, try using your waffle iron. Think of it as a panini press, but slightly more versatile. The extra nooks and crannies created by the waffle press are great for dipping in soups. This recipe adds ham and arugula to make it a full meal by itself.

2 slices of bread

2 slices of Swiss cheese

1-2 thin slices of ham

Arugula Mustard Butter

Preheat your waffle iron. Thinly spread one side of each slice of bread with butter. On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, thinly spread with mustard. Top with one slice of cheese, then ham, arugula and remaining cheese. Place remaining slice of bread, unbuttered side down, on cheese. Place entire sandwich in waffle iron. It won’t close all the way, but don’t press down. (The waffle iron will slowly press the sandwich on its own as it cooks.) Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until bread is brown and toasty, and the cheese is melted. Yield: 1 serving

Oven-Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Fig Jam

Sheet pan grilled cheeses make feeding a crowd fast work. Prosciutto or ham can substitute for the bacon here.

8 slices of bread

8 slices of cooked bacon

Fig jam

8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese Butter

Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread one side of bread with butter. Put four slices, buttered side down, on a cookie sheet. Thinly spread fig jam on bread, then add 2-3 slices of cheese. (Alternatively, you can use grated cheese here — a handful of grated cheese is about an ounce.) Add two slices of bacon and remaining slice of cheese to each piece of bread. Cover each sandwich with remaining slice of bread, butter side up. Bake until bottom bread is golden brown, about 10 minutes, then flip. Continue to bake until cheese is fully melted, and other side is toasted and brown, about 8-10 minutes. Yield: 4 servings ✦

Get sprouting!

It’s easy to grow your own delicious sprouts year-round

BY SLOANE LUCAS

Crisp salad toppers, sweet crunch in stir fry and fresh zest in sandwiches – all of these can be achieved by adding freshly grown sprouts to your meals. We’ve all seen sprouts for sale at our local grocery store or had them out in restaurants. But did you know how easy it is to grow your own? With minimal investment in low-cost supplies, you can have an endless supply of sprouts at-the-ready, any time of year. Unlike outdoor gardening that depends on seasons, or even indoor gardening that might require special lights or equipment, you can easily grow crunchy, sweet sprouts in your windowsill year-round.

DIY power foods

Not only are sprouts delicious, adding punch and flavor to myriad recipes, but they are also nutritional powerhouses. Different seeds offer various levels of vitamins and minerals — but they often deliver elevated levels of Vitamin K and C, along with magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and folate. They provide fiber and antioxidants and can improve digestion due to enzymes that help break down starch and support gut health.

What to buy

The only specialty equipment most people will need is a simple mesh-covered lid that can be fitted to a large, wide-mouth mason jar. You can buy these mesh lids online, some of which will also come with a matching dish that will hold the jar upside down to facilitate draining.

Then, of course, you will need to buy your seeds – and there are so many to choose from. Some of the more popular sprouts are:

n Alfalfa. A mild-tasting variety eaten raw, these are probably the most recognizable sprout, taking three to seven days until ready to eat.

n Broccoli. These are lightly spicy and nutty when eaten raw and are ready to eat in about five days.

n Beet. They taste earthy, just like full-grown beets, and they have pink stems, adding a pop of color to your plate. These take between 11-21 days to reach maturity.

n Chickpeas. They provide more protein than most sprouts. You’ll see green within two days – but they also require longer pre-soaking to start them off.

n Green peas. Tasty and refreshing, these take a little longer to pre-soak, with sprouts ready to harvest in about three days.

n Kale. Nutty and peppery in taste, with streaks of purple, kale sprouts can add flavor and color to your dishes in three to six days. These can be enjoyed raw or cooked.

Keep it Clean

Sprouts are at elevated risk for bacterial growth, so take a few precautions while growing your own. Buy seeds and beans packaged for sprouting use vs. just using beans you have in the cabinet. Sprouting seeds are tested and free of common bacteria. Make sure all jars and lids are clean. Use filtered water when soaking, make sure seeds are draining through the mesh lid, and make sure the lid is well ventilated. Eat them within a week, and if anything looks off or they seem past their prime, toss and grow a new batch.

KALE SPROUTS

BROCCOLI SPROUTS

n Lentils. With even more protein than chickpea sprouts, lentil sprouts can be eaten raw or cooked and are ready in two to four days.

n Mung beans. These are the sprouts we all know and love from some of our favorite Asian stir fries. These hold up well when cooking and are ready to eat in three to four days.

n Mustard. These are ready in three to six days and deliver a little kick like horseradish.

n Radish. With all the different radish seeds available, the sprouts will have some of the same tastes but be milder than their larger full-grown versions. These are ready in three to six days.

n Sunflower. These have more calories than most sprouts but offer a lot of nutty, crunchy goodness. You’ll have to wait between 12-14 days.

MUNG BEAN SPROUTS

RADISH SPROUTS

SUNFLOWER SPROUTS

Time to sprout!

Always read the packaging for specific seeds, but generally sprouts will need the same care to get started and grow. Measure out the appropriate amount of seeds as recommended by the packaging and size of your container, but in general you will be using a small amount of seeds, probably no more than a tablespoon. Even a teaspoon will surprise you with how fast they will grow and fill a large mason jar.

The first stage is to soak sprouts in fresh filtered water overnight. The next morning, drain the water and then rinse with a fresh batch of filtered water. Continue to rinse the sprouts a few times a day. Each time, drain and set the jar upside down to drain water through the mesh cover into a dish or on to paper towels.

You will see seeds begin sprouting in a day or so, depending on which type you are growing. When you are ready to eat them, wash the sprouts in a bowl of water to shake away some of the hulls, which will float to the top. Dry them out on paper towels a bit before storing in the fridge in a lidded container lined with paper towels. Eat them within a week.

Enjoying your harvest

Use your crunchy harvest to brighten up salads, add heft and crispness to sandwiches and add extra nutrients to homemade veggie burgers. For sturdier varieties such as mung beans, add them to homemade stir-frys and soups. Or add just a sprinkle to your plate for extra color, flavor and fun. ✦

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A shipshape plan

Creating the perfect home for retirement in Amherst

BY CARTER HEALD BENDALL • Photography by Michael Patch

Tim and Sherry Carton met while working for the Coast Guard in Florida. Sherry graduated as one of 91 women in her all-female Basic Training class. Tim worked his way up the chain, becoming an officer. During his career, he was stationed up and down the East Coast. Specializing in search-and-rescue missions, his colleagues referred to him as the “Tom Brady of the Coast Guard,” only recently retiring after 44 years of service. Sherry moved on after 10 years in the Coast Guard to become a personal assistant for many clients who became like family to her.

They started looking for land 15 years ago while they were living on Cape Cod. With a specific house design in mind, they were waiting for the perfect property. Imagine Sherry’s surprise when her husband landed on a listing online in her hometown of Amherst. After visiting and realizing how wonderful the land was, the Cartons decided to move back to Virginia. Instead of downsizing like so many do in retirement, the Cartons upsized and built the home of their dreams.

How the plan came together

Work started on the Cartons’ house in December 2018, but with unusually high amounts of rain, the house was 14 months late in its completion. Terry Morcom, of Morcom Building Inc., built the house. He was no stranger to Sherry, as his dad had built her mother’s house, and she grew up right down the street from his family.

The Cartons chose tones of brown for the exterior of their home, with stone covering the foundation walls. They built the house with the mindset that they would grow old in it. Rooms are compliant with accessibility protocols and, if needed, they can live comfortably on the main floor of the house alone.

Upon entering the front door, an office sits to the left with built-in bookshelves lining the back wall and a desk in front. In the original plans for the house, this room was supposed to be a dining room, but Sherry knew they needed some type of office space. She modeled the room instead after an office in one of her personal assistant client’s homes.

The Cartons cherish a signed picture of Abraham Lincoln in this room. Additionally, a pair of tilting brass light sconces that were once used on a ship provide another favorite focal point. Touches of nautical-inspired décor are sprinkled around the house, after so many years working at sea. Large windows overlook the front yard. Sherry says, “The morning light is great. It may be my favorite part of the room.”

“Sherry walked in an art gallery and fell in love with [a Thomas Kincaid painting], only to be told it was already sold. As it turns out, Tim had been in the gallery earlier and purchased it; it was truly meant to be.”

A gracious den flows off the office, with vaulted ceilings and tons of natural light from the windows overlooking the backyard. Matching cream sofas that face each other, as well as occasional chairs also covered in a neutral cream fabric, provide ample seating for the room. Pops of blue are found in the accent pillows and in the floor rug.

A fireplace surrounded with dark blue tile and a hearth of soapstone from a local quarry commands attention. On either side of the fireplace are two blue-gray cabinets sourced at Pottery Barn that fit the space so well, they look like built-ins. A cherished Thomas Kincaid painting hangs above one of these. Sherry walked in an art gallery and fell in love with it, only to be told it was already sold. As it turns out, Tim had been in the gallery earlier and purchased it; it was truly meant to be. Additionally, high up on one of the vaulted walls is a picture of a moose. Tim told Sherry this was as close as she was going to get to having an actual moose head.

Dreamy beds and baths

A primary bedroom resides off the den. Again, light floods from the rear-facing windows. There is access to the back porch from this room, making it easy to take a cup coffee out and enjoy the woodland views. The bedroom set is painted cream, allowing the gorgeous quilt on the bed to stand out. Sherry made this quilt as well as others in the house. She loves the craft so much that she has a quilting room in the basement, complete with a quilting table and storage for all of her fabric.

A walk-in closet — a first for the Cartons after living in smaller houses in Massachusetts — leads the way to Sherry’s “dream bathroom.” There is a generous walk-in shower and a bathtub surrounded in granite. The tub rests beneath a large window that lets in tons of light. Sherry made the lace curtains for this window to provide privacy. Two stained wood vanities with the same black granite that surrounds the tub provide needed storage. The sconces, mirrors and hardware are all chrome. Cream, gray and tan tile lie on the floor and on the shower walls.

Designed for dining

A kitchen and attached dining room reside on the other side of the main floor of the house. The Cartons asked David Mays, who lives up the road from them, to construct their cabinets. The perimeter cabinets are cream, while the island cabinets are black. The tan and black granite countertops unite the two colors of cabinetry. Small-scale cream subway tiles provide the backsplash and all of the pulls are antique bronze. The island has seating that the grandchildren love and a large black hood hangs above it. The kitchen sink is illuminated by a billiard light and the view looks out onto the fenced-in vegetable gardens.

The dining room extends off the kitchen. In the original plans, it was supposed to be a screened-in porch. Instead, now the walls are lined with windows that overlook the back yard. Sherry made the rooster curtains that hang from these windows and coordinate with the other rooster accents found in the kitchen. The long dining room table seats 10-12 people with benches on two sides, perfect for family dinners that Sherry hosts. Two black metal chandeliers dangle above the table and an oriental rug lies beneath it. A treasured photograph of her grandmother making biscuits resides on the wall connecting the kitchen to the dining room.

A one-of-a-kind pantry also connects to the kitchen. Sherry says, “This is my favorite room in the whole house.” The pantry features frosted glass doors, adjustable shelves, butcher-block countertops and wallpaper on the ceiling that mimics tin tiles. Baking supplies are clearly labeled and easily accessible. Cake stands, platters and baking dishes are proudly displayed.

For family & guests

The basement level of the house is also fully finished. When the Cartons built the house, they had no idea that the extra space in the basement would be needed for their two daughters and two grandsons to move in with them. The basement features a den, three bedrooms, a quilting room and a bar. The basement den sits directly underneath the upstairs den, allowing for another stone fireplace. Red leather sofas offer seating in the room. Walnut side tables, made by Sherry’s brother-in-law, give guests a place to rest their drinks. A beautiful oriental rug grounds the room.

There is also a pool table, which is a homage to the Cartons playing pool when they first met. Decorating the walls around the pool table are numerous original paintings — many pieces around the basement (and upstairs as well) were

painted by Tim’s mother and several family members. Tim loves the Statue of Liberty painting that was done by his mom to commemorate 9-11. There is also an abstract called “The Horizon” that depicts the view seen on a ship that hangs near the pool table. A custom bar — with a sink and dishwasher — resides next to the pool table. Conscientious of space, the Cartons used wall cabinets on the floor because of their narrower depth. Granite countertops surround the sink and the lower level of the bar. Butcher-block countertops, again stained by Sherry, reside on the upper level for bar seating. Beer glasses that Tim collects are displayed on open shelves and just underneath these are the decanters that Sherry collects. There is also a wine cellar where Sherry stores all the canned vegetables from her garden, in addition to Tim’s wine collection.

The walkout basement opens right onto a covered patio that overlooks the pool. The Cartons intentionally limited the pool depth to 6 feet. String lights hang from the surrounding fencing and a fire pit sits off to the side of the pool. The

property goes all the way down to a creek. Sherry says, “While sitting on the patio or by the pool, we love watching the deer in the woods — as long as they stay away from our vegetable gardens.”

Another unique aspect of the Carton’s house is an Airbnb property located above their three-car garage. The Cartons named it the “Captain’s Quarters” and decked it out in nautical décor. Tim was very keen on having at least one room in their home decorated in this manner, to remind him of the sea and his profession. A ship’s wheel, given to Tim when he retired from being a captain, anchors the design theme. Sherry did 90 percent of the work in this rental. She installed the floors, painted the walls and hung the wallpaper. The rental has its own private entry, a kitchenette, access to the washer and dryer, and renters can use the pool.

Jacques Cousteau said, “The Sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” No truer words can be spoken for the Cartons. Their love for the sea is only equaled by their love for their family. Their beautiful home skillfully highlights all the things that truly matter to them. ✦

GET READY FOR SPRING WITH BLACK GOOSE CHIMNEY SERVICE

When you see the Canada geese returning this spring, let that be your reminder to call your dedicated team at Black Goose Chimney Service. Spring is a great time for our team to come for a visit.

BUYING A HOME?

During the spring real estate market, things can get busy, but make sure a chimney inspection is part of your home purchase. Following guidelines set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), we advocate for level 2 inspections — that way there are no surprises or dangerous situations when you light that first fire months after your purchase. Our comprehensive inspections are the foundation of our quality service.

TIRED OF HIGH HEATING BILLS?

Say goodbye to high electric bills, and embrace a more cost-effective wood-burning or gas heating solution. If you’re considering a new fireplace, woodstove or chimney replacement, we can help transform your home into a cozy haven. If you’re converting a gas fireplace to a wood-burning one, be sure your chimney is ready. We also sell gas-burning fireplaces, wood stoves and fire tables.

READY TO CLOSE UP YOUR FIREPLACE OR STOVE FOR SPRING?

When you are done using your wood-burning unit as warmer days take over, go ahead and get your chimney swept. That way you’re ready to go in the fall — without the wait when everyone else calls for a sweep.

WHAT MAKES BLACK GOOSE DIFFERENT?

We pride ourselves on three important factors:

1. Education. We go beyond mere service provision; we empower you with knowledge to make informed decisions about your chimney’s health and safety. We take time to talk you through the challenges and solutions for your home. Our services include chimney inspections, sweeps, repair and restoration. We also offer a range of gas products to meet your home’s heating needs.

2. Integrity. One of the reasons we want to be sure you have a good understanding of your chimney’s condition is that we want to always act with integrity and honesty. We aren’t here to sell you anything you don’t need. Our unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made us the trusted choice for homeowners in Central-Southwest Virginia.

3. Quality. Every project, big or small, begins with a meticulous inspection. As a licensed and insured Virginia Contractor, our contract work is compliant with International Residential Code, NFPA-211, NFPA-31, and NFPA-54.

Just like riding a bike

DISCOVER (OR RE-DISCOVER) CYCLING THIS SPRING

BY SHELLEY BASINGER

As we age, it’s not always easy to embrace the well-known saying, “It’s just like riding a bike.” Especially when it comes to … riding a bike. It’s possible that one, two or even three decades have passed since you balanced on two wheels.

But there is no reason to be intimidated. Cycling is actually considered one of the more accessible physical activities for adults.

“Unlike many other sports, you can continue cycling as you age since it’s low impact,” says Davy Hazlegrove, owner of Blackwater Bike Shop in Forest, who added that cycling is an activity you can enjoy alone or with a group.

For those interested in the world of cycling and want to know how to get started, Hazlegrove helps us break down the basics.

Road vs. trail

First and foremost, you need to decide which type of cycling you want to pursue. Ask yourself a few questions:

n Do you want to ride on trails or on the road?

n What’s available where you live?

n Which option makes you feel more comfortable?

“Road biking is probably the most accessible for many people. However, if you aren’t comfortable riding on a main road or near vehicles, a greenway such as the Blackwater Creek Trail is a good fit,” said Hazlegrove. “If you have mountain bike trails near you, that’s another way to cycle that many people enjoy.”

Once you answer this question, you can start doing your research on a bike.

Pick a bike … but not just any bike

Newbies should understand that any bike is able to ride on the road — but a road-specific bike is going to be faster and more tailored to that environment.

The main visual difference is the tires. Mountain bike tires are wider, larger and have more pronounced tread to navigate uneven trail terrain. Road bike tires are more narrow, allowing beginner cyclists to maintain an average speed between 10 and 14 miles per hour.

While we all want to save a few pennies, Hazlegrove highly recommends buying a bike from a reputable bike shop, so you end up with a piece of equipment that’s the best fit for you.

“When you go to a big box store and you see kids’ bikes, there are always a few different wheel sizes. And at these stores, you will usually see one adult bike option. Those adult bikes are built for someone who is about 5'7", he says.

If you go to a local bike shop, you can find a bike that’s the right size for your stature. Then, staff will adjust the seat height and other settings for you to make sure you are comfortable. At Blackwater Bike Shop, they also send you out on a test ride.

“You are much more likely to not stick with cycling if you don’t have a good bike,” Hazlegrove says.

The real deal with a local feel!

CITY OF LYNCHBURG OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM

Get in gear

Here is Hazlegrove’s cycling gear checklist:

n Helmet “I can’t stress this enough. It’s crucial.” (Virginia does not have a state-level helmet law but allows localities to set requirements by local ordinance. Amherst County is the only locality in Central Virginia that requires children under the age of 15 to wear a helmet.)

n Gloves — “These help with hand comfort and also protect your hands if you come off the bike.”

n Eyewear — “Bugs can get in your face; a tree branch can slap you in the face. Protective eyewear has saved me more than once.”

n Sweat-wicking clothing — “Avoid cotton because you will get bogged down with sweat, which can lead to chafing. But it doesn’t have to be the tight skin suit that you see really serious cyclists wear.”

n Padded shorts — “A lot of people see the bike saddles and think ‘that’s not comfortable’ but there are shorts that have padding in them that make a huge difference. They come in tight versions and also regular shorts with pockets.”

Local

bike clubs

Rolling out

Beginner cyclists will want to tread lightly (no pun intended) when venturing out cycling.

For road cyclists, Hazlegrove says — as mentioned — that greenway trails such as Blackwater Creek Trail are the least intimidating. There is a speed limit for cyclists of 15 miles an hour, and there is no car traffic to worry about.

“The next level up would be Bedford County and Amherst County roads, the back roads. There are common routes people take, but you will have some traffic interactions,” he says. “If you are willing to drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a great place to ride. It’s quieter, with less traffic, and traffic is going slower because people aren’t trying to get to work on time.”

For trail cyclists, Hazlegrove recommends Peaksview Park (Lynchburg), Liberty Mountain Trail System (Lynchburg), Falling Creek Park (Bedford) and New London Tech Trails (Forest).

Whichever cycling path you take, Hazlegrove strongly recommends finding a buddy to join you on this new adventure.

“Riding together is a really fun activity and also having a friend can hold you accountable and help you stay focused,” says Hazlegrove. ✦

n GREATER LYNCHBURG OFF-ROAD CYCLISTS (GLOC) — An International Mountain Biking Association chapter located in Lynchburg. Website: www.greaterlynchburgoffroadcyclists.org

n LYNCHBURG AREA BIKERS (LAB) — LAB youth mountain biking is an outreach program of GLOC. For kids 9 and up. Facebook: Lynchburg Area Bikers

n 811 VELO — This is a local road cycling club for advanced rides that encourages group rides regularly. Website: groups.io/g/811-Velo

Groovy inspiration

’70s

style icons make a comeback

BY LAUREL FEINMAN

Boomers and Gen Xers remember it well – that carefree sepiatoned world of the 1970s when packs of kids roamed the neighborhood atop banana-seat bikes ’til the street lamps came on. Parents led their slightly mysterious adult lives doing … whatever it was that adults did back then?!

When I think of my ’70s childhood, I remember that “home” was the center of the universe. Not just my house but everyone’s home. Everyone was a “back-door friend” back then, and, for the most part, all of our entertainment happened in the home. Child-centered homes had “rumpus rooms” with pool tables and board games, while adultfocused houses had glamorous rooms intended purely for entertaining.

There were two distinct vibes regarding home décor. One was the earth-toned, bohemian, happy little plant-filled landscape of Bob Ross. If your home had that warm and welcoming “Come and Knock on our Door” feeling like Mrs. Roper’s did, you would have had rattan furniture, handmade ceramics, macrame wall hangings and textiles in earthtoned shades of brown, gold, green and orange. It would have been commonplace to see a pet rock, Japanese paper lanterns, a terrarium or a statement-making wicker “Peacock Chair” in the living room and a quilted bed coverlet with a single throw pillow on the bed in the bedroom. Plants were everywhere: fiddle leaf figs, monstera, palms, ferns and succulents. Bringing the outdoors in through natural textures and colors created a cozy, friendly atmosphere. Almost everyone I knew lived in some version of this ’70s home.

In contrast, the other distinct décor style featured the sleek, glossy, bold and bright world of Charlie’s Angels or Sonny and Cher. These homes were more Diana Ross than Bob Ross! This sleek style featured conversation pits, shiny velvet, satin and faux fur fabrics, and lots of chrome, glass and brass. Cocktail tables, shag rugs, a home bar and a “Hi-Fi” stereo would have been center-stage in the living room. Anything “modern” was de rigueur –acrylic and glossy lacquer furnishings, geometric foil wallpaper prints and free-spirited “fun” accents added pops of color and whimsy to this colorful, sculptural world. My aptly named Aunt Joy lived in this world, and I thought her high-rise condo in Dallas was just about the coolest place I had ever seen. She had a space-age “egg chair,” wall-to-wall fluffy white carpet and shiny chrome furniture. A Hollywood vanity with big globe light bulbs covered an entire wall between her bedroom and bathroom.

If you’d like to infuse a bit of 1970s nostalgia into your 2024 home décor, introducing funky accessories is the best way to walk the line between “classic” and “kitsch.” Taking on a DIY retro craft project, like planting a terrarium, throwing a pot or making a macrame wall hanging, is one way to do it. Scouring thrift shops and upcycling vintage finds at estate sales is another budget-friendly way. In fact, the original “reduce-reuse-recycle” movement was founded in the 1970s! No wonder the current sustainability movement aligns so well with this style.

PHOTO: JAMES RIVER MEDIA

Harmonizing old and new elements into your design can be as simple as adding a cute little Murano-inspired “mushroom” lamp into the bookcase or swapping out your bulky down duvet and sea of pillow shams for a simple quilted coverlet on your bed this spring. Adding a few items in small doses will prevent the pitfall of going full-on retro and taking the look too far. There’s a difference between showcasing a charming vintage look and making your home look like a Brady Bunch time capsule.

If you’re shopping for “new that looks old” retro items, retailers like CB2, West Elm, Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters are chock full of fabulous finds. Big box stores such as Target and Walmart even have clever ’70s-inspired accessories and furnishings. Conveniently, the 1970s style pairs equally well with mid-century and Scandi décor and is incorporated easily into traditional family homes, too. So, don’t be afraid to awaken a forgotten memory or add a pop of the unexpected into your home décor. If it makes you smile every time you see it, you did it right.

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most

Congratulations to The Hoskins Group for being named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2024 list, published on January 9, 2024. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2023.

The Hoskins Group

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 1705 Enterprise Drive Lynchburg, VA 24502 434.485.8285

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n Lamp shades made of natural materials or paper

n A coverlet tucked tightly around the mattress and pillows (sans myriad throw pillows)

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Below-grade UPGRADES

Inspiring ideas to transform your basement

BY MITZI BIBLE

Maybe you have it all mapped out: a home gym over here and a game area over there. You’re ready to make your home’s catch-all space, otherwise known as your basement, a comfortable living area to enjoy with family and friends. If you want to take full advantage of the extra square footage down below, here are some ideas to get started.

Well worth it

When we start to outgrow our home, the first thing we may consider is an addition. But this can be expensive, lengthy and cause us to sacrifice a large part of our yard. A basement remodel can be an affordable way to make the most of existing space.

A 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), estimated ROI for finishing a basement is 86 percent of the project cost.

Refinishing a basement was identified by Houzz as one of the top emerging trends in home improvement, based on data from the online searches of homeowners, contractors and designers in its summer 2023 report. “Online searches for ‘finishing a basement’ have increased significantly over the past year as more homeowners look to turn their large, open spaces into a family or recreation room,” it reads.

Basement remodels ranked higher than seven other projects, including kitchen and bathroom renovations. Searches were up by more than 100 percent for “basement movie theater,” more than 500 percent for “basement rec room,” and nearly 800 percent for “basement family room.”

First things first

Before you start, you’ll want to tackle any water issues, correct humidity levels and conduct radon testing. If you’ve ever had water in your basement, you will want to call a local foundation expert to assess the problem and get long-term solutions. There’s nothing worse than laying a new floor and finding puddles the day after a big storm. Make sure you have a secure gutter system that you can keep clean year-round and proper drains that take rainwater away from the house. Basement waterproofing experts always suggest running a dehumidifier to automatically keep humidity levels steady and prevent mold, mildew and that musty basement smell. There are many energyefficient models that can be connected with a sump pump system or its own drain system so you don’t have to manually dump out the water every day. The Virginia Department of Health recommends you conduct radon testing on “every section of the home that is in contact with the ground.” (The highest radon levels are typically found in the lowest livable space of a structure.) The department regularly offers discount radon test kits, but area professionals can do this for a cost of $100-$200.

What about those posts?

Most basements have exposed support posts. Made of steel, the unsightly posts just hang out in the middle of the room. Many homeowners are finding creative ways to dress these up. Column wrap designs are available in white PVC, wood and stone. Even just wrapping it in nautical rope can create a finished look. One idea to pull the posts into your design is to build a half wall between a main wall and the post, sectioning off an area of your basement and using it for the back of a couch or even topping it to make a bar area.

Imagine the possibilities

Want to build out your basement to its potential? Try these ideas and tips:

FAMILY TIME: Turn your basement into a true family room, a place to watch TV and play games. Sectionals work great, with plenty of space for everyone to lounge. Add a kitchenette (or even just a mini fridge, freestanding cabinet or cart) for quick snacks.

n Tip: Install recessed lighting to give the illusion of higher ceilings. If you don’t have any windows or if your basement isn’t a walk-out, keep the palette white and bright to make up for the lack of natural light.

WORKOUT AREA: You don’t need a lot of equipment to create a home gym — at least one cardio machine (a treadmill or stationary bike), a set of dumbbells and a yoga mat. Flooring is

important; foam tiles or rubber mats are fairly inexpensive and can be placed right over concrete.

n Tips: Use hooks for towels and install sturdy shelves for equipment and even a special holder for your water bottle. A regular pegboard can provide a place for exercise bands, jump ropes and yoga mats. Add floor-to-ceiling mirrors for an upscale look, to help you better gauge your progress and to give the illusion of a larger workout space.

HOME OFFICE: Many people build a home office in the basement for more privacy and less noise. The area under your stairwell could be the perfect office nook or at least provide storage space for books and supplies.

n Tip: Use a combination of task lighting and ambient lighting to make a comfortable working environment.

PHOTO: MICHAEL PATCH

FOR THE KIDS: Add plenty of shelves and bins. Keep it colorful. Use bright colors on the walls, add a mural and use a fun kids’ rug or colored foam floor tiles.

n Tips: For those mandatory quiet times, incorporate a reading nook (under the stairwell could be the perfect hideaway). If you have the clearance overhead, you can add a small indoor gym center (search “kids indoor gym” online for ideas), a welcome attraction on rainy days.

SWEET SUITE: If you have the space, you could convert your basement into a studio apartment to rent out or to use for family members, perhaps a grown child who is trying to save some money or aging parents who need assistance. If you have an easily accessible walk-out basement, remodeling a space for them could save you money and keep them close by.

n Tips: Reconfigure the space and add walls or room dividers to make a bedroom, kitchen or living area. Check with local building codes for basement bedrooms (many areas call for two egresses with a door or window to the outside).

Setting the bar for home entertainment

Lynchburg homeowners Jennifer and Dallas Moss call themselves “the entertainers” of their friend group. Hardly any holiday goes by without the couple opening their doors to guests.

“We’re known for our annual Halloween party, but we’ll have parties throughout the year, for the Kentucky Derby, to Cinco de Mayo — any holiday or party we will celebrate,” Jennifer says.

So it was no surprise when they started remodeling their basement for entertainment. They started the project in 2020 “as a product of circumstances,” Jennifer says.

“It was going to be our year of travel. We had saved up, then COVID hit, and we realized we weren’t going anywhere.”

Like many people during the pandemic, the more the Mosses stayed home, the more they got the itch to start a DIY project.

“We thought we could really maximize the square footage of our house and revamp our entire basement,” Jennifer says.

After three months of construction and another couple months decorating, the result was a large bar and lounge area inspired by some of their favorite hotspots on previous travels.

From a backlit canvas of palm trees to a 1970s-era tulip chair to bold wallpaper with larger-than-life ferns, the Mosses have created a unique space with plenty of conversation pieces. They worked with a local upholsterer to breathe new life into thrift store finds.

“We picked funky kind of furniture that’s a little eccentric,” Jennifer says. “We were scared to go bold upstairs, but we thought, ‘It’s a basement, we can make it what we want.’”

They made the bar themselves, covering it in single wood slats. They ordered custom granite countertops in a leathered cut and installed a mirror wall with glass shelves and gold shelf supports for the back bar.

A nearby game closet was turned into a wine cave where Jennifer, a former bartender, displays some glass heirlooms from her family.

The Mosses even chose a name for their home venue. “Beatniks” shines in neon on their bar. Dallas chose the name, as he is a fan of the Beat movement and the Beat poets — he'd choose it for a bar if he ever opened one.

It was also Dallas’ vision to create the right atmosphere from the top down. On the ceiling, they installed striking faux tin tile.

“Most of the bars you go to have a cozy but big-city feel, and we felt like we needed that,” he says. “Most have a ceiling like that. It’s what a lot of our guests see immediately when they visit.”

He applauds his wife for adding all the special touches that have turned their basement into what she describes on their Instagram account (Beatniks_ basement bar) as “Disco dreams + retro speakeasy + Palm Springs style basement bar.”

They noticed how the right lighting makes a real difference. “A good tip is having a brighter light for games but being able to transition to really low bar lighting to create the ambiance you want,” Jennifer says. Their eclectic mood lamps and overhead lights blend right in with the style of the room.

Dallas, a home inspector by day, says they tackled any potential problem areas before they began any major work. They resealed the foundation in one area, regraded outside and added an awning for further waterproofing. He also suggests running a dehumidifier all the time.

They did much of the work themselves, calling in professionals when it came to painting and electrical, and ordering local, like the glass, mirrors and countertops.

“It was easy to find local people to do all the custom things we ended up needing to make it all work.”

They plan on remodeling a basement bathroom and laundry area next but for now are glad to have a space they can enjoy in the company of friends.

“People are blown away; we get great reactions,” Jennifer says. “People like to swing by, and we’re happy to show it off.” ✦

Everything in its place

DREAMING OF AN UNCLUTTERED KITCHEN

BY MARTHA S. COFFEY

Who doesn’t dream of a photoshoot-worthy kitchen? You know the type: one with ample and easy-care counter space, tons of storage in handsome cabinetry, an abundance of natural light, tough but beautiful flooring, plus an array of appliances, both large and small, designed to make every kitchen task a snap. Welcome to the worldwide club of dreamers! Fortunately, even if a total kitchen remodel isn’t in your budget, you can harness the burst of energy that comes with springtime and upgrade the hardest-working room in your house by simply decluttering your kitchen countertops.

Appliance garages to the rescue!

Move toward the streamlined kitchen of your dreams by corralling appliances such as microwaves, blenders, stand/hand mixers, coffeemakers, toasters and air fryers behind closed doors in a dedicated storage cabinet known in HGTV-speak as an appliance garage. Not only are these so-called garages useful in decluttering countertops, but they also provide storage for rarely used and seasonal items. (Crockpots and Christmas dishes deserve dedicated storage space, too.)

Assess first

Answers to these questions will help determine which kind of kitchen garage(s) will work best for you:

n How many and what kind of kitchen appliances do you have that could be stowed out of sight?

n What sizes and how heavy are they?

n What height should they be stored? Would they benefit from being countertop height so they can simply be slid out onto the counter in front of the garage or left on a top shelf only to be taken down on special occasions?

Another solution is to use doors that swing open and then slide back into the cabinet on either side. This design requires adequate space on either side to accommodate the rollbacks and is often used when an entire wall-hung cabinet is being transformed into a multi-tiered appliance garage. An additional plus of rollback doors is that they close by simply pulling them back out fully and then closing them just like standard cabinet doors. When

After you’ve assessed how many and what types of appliances you want to conceal, the next step is to examine closely the layout of your kitchen and the look of your existing cabinetry. Will you need to hire a contractor to custom build your appliance garage to match your existing cabinets or will you purchase a ready-made solution in a contrasting color and/or coordinating design? Sometimes an underutilized countertop corner can be the perfect place for a purchased appliance garage that will simply slide back into that corner under existing wall-hung cabinets. When adequate in size, a purchased appliance garage can be a handy spot to conceal a microwave or other heat-producing appliances while allowing for proper ventilation. Whether you choose to add an undercounter unit or build a much larger appliance garage, your kitchen layout will drive the design.

It’s all about the doors

For maximum functionality of any appliance garage, the type of doors you choose is critical. In most cases this means being creative when it comes to making doors “disappear.” Below are some ways to achieve this.

Roll-up doors, also known as tambour doors, are made of connected narrow slats that roll back into the upper or lower area of the specialty cabinet with the help of a handle, perfect for appliance garages that house larger, heat-generating appliances that will be used in place. An added benefit of tambour doors is that they will never be in the way of adjacent cabinets and other workspaces.

Beverage station

Sometimes all you need is a strategically placed beverage station. Why not add a countertop model or dedicate an existing cabinet to a coffeemaker/hot water pot, along with an assortment of coffees, teas, packets of hot cocoa and cider mixes, plus creamers, sweeteners, stirrers and mugs? A simple beverage station like this can streamline traffic flow at busy food prep times.

Especially in smaller kitchens, a great choice of doors is one that either pulls down or lifts up. One of the benefits of a door that swings down is that the door provides a landing area for associated items.

For heavy items that are most conveniently used at counter height, consider lifts installed inside base cabinets. Placing large appliances such as food processors and stand mixers on lifts inside base cabinets provides relief from moving heavy objects. At the same time it frees up valuable counter space and allows associated items to be stored on a shelf underneath.

Remember to add sufficient electrical outlets and lighting inside garages. In cases when you can’t match your existing cabinetry, consider a door with an insert of perforated tin, caning or a metal grille to make the door look more intentional. A customized kitchen appliance garage will not only conceal counter clutter, but it will also enhance the functionality of the hub of your home, getting you one step closer to your dream kitchen. ✦

If you are looking to buy a home, we can help you finance your mortgage with local processing and local underwriting.

Courtney Woody (NMLS 728080) (434) 546-0470 | cwoody@freedomfirst.com

James Porter (NMLS 816180) (434) 208-1272 | jporter@freedomfirst.com

Splurge, save & sustain

HOW TO DESIGN LIKE A GROWN-UP

BY KATE ERICSSON

Just as every structure needs a solid foundation, your home’s interior design needs an anchor to create stability and durability. Certain high-quality items will set the stage and are worth investing in, even as your décor evolves over time. So where does a homeowner begin? Think about three S’s: splurge, save and sustainability.

Splurge

Let’s start with those splurge-worthy anchors.

SOFA — A sofa is a major focal point in a living space. It is where guests gather and families relax. Since seating is generally used more than any other element in the home, it is worth investing in the highest quality sofa you can afford. The weight of the piece is an easy indication of quality. Sofas made with plywood or particle board won’t last. A sturdy frame made with quality hardwood, frame joints that have been wood glued and dowelled, premium cushion filling and quality spring units are elements of a high quality sofa. Consider investing as well in a performance fabric, an easy-to-clean option that wicks away stains.

STATEMENT LIGHT FIXTURE — A dazzling chandelier or pendant lighting can immediately elevate the look of everything in the room. Think of scale — the larger the better, especially with chandeliers. Dimmable chandeliers and pendant lights made from high-quality materials such as crystal, Murano glass, premium metals like brass or gold, and fine woods tend to be more expensive, but will last forever.

RUG A beautiful rug is a foundational layer that can make the rest of your room pop. With rugs, it is worth splurging on size. Investing in a bigger rug is always a good idea; the bigger the rug, the larger your room can feel. Rugs should either have two legs of the furniture on them or all of the legs. The cost of rugs depends on construction, materials and size. A handmade rug is something to consider if you are looking for a unique rug to be a family heirloom. High-end rugs are made of natural materials such as wool or silk and have high-weave density. Not all luxury rugs need to be hand woven. Modern rugs made of wool blended materials can be just as visually stunning.

ART — A piece of original art immediately makes your interior unique, as a viewer sees something not found anywhere else. When displayed in your home, original art can change the feeling one experiences in that room, making it more comforting and personal. Art can also tell a story — where you traveled to find it, what color palette speaks to you or simply a reminder of a place you love.

PHOTO: MICHAEL PATCH

PHOTO: MICHAEL PATCH

Save

In the save category are items that are essential in your décor, but where you may find some bargains and still have the opportunity to create a unique style.

SIDE TABLES — Side tables are highly functional, serving as a place to set down a drink or book. They complement larger pieces of furniture and are a good place to get away with going lower-end.

CONSOLES — These are generally decorative and don’t experience wear and tear, so thinking less about durability and more on style is an opportunity to save. Console tables typically have an airy design with only small drawers and open shelves.

COFFEE TABLES — Generally made of one or two solid materials means you can get away with saving on these. Coffee tables are a great place to dress up with some beautiful accessories such as a piece of art, a bowl or some beautiful books.

LAMPS — Decorative table lamps and bedside lamps need not break the bank. Stylish and affordable lamps are available at a variety of price points and can be switched out easily as trends change.

RUGS FOR HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS — Entryway rugs or kitchen runners that are easy to clean are the best choices for these areas. Rugs made from man-made materials such as nylon or polypropylene are some of the most common rug types on the market. They are made to withstand heavy foot traffic, are easy to clean and stain resistant. Best of all, they are very affordable. Stay away from jute or sisal which are difficult to clean.

Do What You Love

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS IN 2024

Reach more customers through strategic marketing with HOME magazine and WLNI

As you plan your marketing strategy, meet with us to reach a wider audience with HOME magazine and WLNI. These two mediums offer a unique way to bundle your messages to reach a larger audience in different ways. Both are hyper local, focusing ads and content to our local community, and both are targeted to adults with the disposable income to afford your products and services.

“When we ask our customers how they heard about us, people in the community say it’s through WLNI ads and interviews and HOME magazine ads more so than any other marketing source we invest in. WLNI and HOME magazine have been really helpful in getting the word out about our farm to the community. JRM Creative Services has done a fantastic job helping us communicate our message and purpose clearly through the radio messages and the beautiful print ads that really showcase our animals, products and messaging of why we’re here and what we want to deliver to our customers through our farm. We are so grateful!”

Reuben and Courtney Gobezie Maranatha Farms

While HOME magazine allows you to SHOW potential customers your products and services, WLNI offers you the ability to TELL your story in your own voice.

Let’s partner to boost your business! And you can experience success like Maranatha Farms, Piedmont Floor Show and Runk and Pratt Companies.

“At Piedmont Floor Show, we spend a great deal of time and energy helping our clients make good decisions. That means being good listeners then using what we’ve learned to help us produce satisfied customers. Our decision to partner with HOME magazine and WLNI allows us to reach a large portion of our customer base, and we use that connection to share information and encourage those planning a project to take that next step with us. To be able to combine print advertising with radio advertising is a unique opportunity, and since the feedback has been all positive, I have to say it has been great for our business.”

Ed Roakes | Vice President Piedmont Floor Show

“WLNI and HOME magazine have been invaluable tools for growing our businesses in senior living, golf, weddings and events in the greater Lynchburg area. The radio station’s extensive reach has significantly boosted our visibility, attracting a diverse audience, while HOME magazine has provided an effective platform for showcasing our services and connecting with the community. The collaborative impact of these media outlets has played a pivotal role in expanding our presence and success, and we’re proud to partner with this local business.”

Vickie Runk | Co-Founder Runk and Pratt Companies

Historic Garden Week Get inspired!

Visitors will get an inspiring glimpse into beautiful houses and gardens of five homes in Lynchburg’s Boonsboro neighborhood. There’s something for every visitor — from a Spanish Revival home to a Cape Cod to an English Tudor – all built between 1923-1924. This year also features Virginia Episcopal School, with access to the Headmaster’s home, chapel and garden. Camp Kum-Ba-Yah Nature Center will offer conservation instruction and nature walks as well.

119 OAKWOOD PLACE

Owners: Lisa & David Cresson

This Spanish Revival home was designed in 1924 by the esteemed architect Aubrey Chesterman, known for influencing designs in the Court House Hill Historic District. Initially built for Robert and Maidie Horton, this residence embodies timeless elegance. Approaching the house, a grand entrance flanked by meticulously trimmed holly hedges leads to a double-door, ironwork entryway showcasing the Spanish Revival architectural style. With its original design, intricate details, and a collection of family heirlooms and art, every room is a step back in time, reflecting generations of cherished memories.

1555 LINK ROAD

Owners: Patricia & Thomas Moore

This white clapboard Cape Cod, framed by a picturesque white picket fence, was constructed in 1923 for William Gibson McGehee, Sr., and his wife Helen Gray Mahood McGehee, parents of modern dancer Helen McGehee. The architect was Alexander Blount Mahood, ensuring its architectural distinction. In 1930, the McGehees entrusted the property’s care to Mr. and Mrs. Lawson W. Turner, who recognized its potential and engaged the services of the distinguished landscape architect Charles Gillette of Richmond. While the original Gillette garden has gracefully aged over almost a century, the current owners have thoughtfully created a summer garden from its blueprint. The interior is bright and traditionally adorned with oriental rugs, original oil paintings, antiques and pieces handcrafted by the owner.

LYNCHBURG TOUR

Tuesday April 23, 2024

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4012 PEAKLAND PLACE

Owners: Liz & Scott Wade

This English Tudor home was designed by J. Everette Fauber Jr., an architect who helped restore Point of Honor and reconstruct the Appomattox Courthouse. It was built for Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Forehand in 1923. The house was constructed using antique local bricks and features three chimneys, original oak doors, shutters, floors and wainscoting. Both the house and garage have uniquely patterned slate roofs. It is furnished with family pieces and antiques, as well as newer pieces. The backyard features pollinator beds and original American boxwoods. Native plants abound, earning the gardens a Certified Pollinator Habitat designation from Blue Ridge Conservation.

400 VES ROAD

Occupants: Anne & Garth Ainslie

The Robert Carter Jett Memorial Head of School House was dedicated in 1954 as the Diocesan Memorial to the late Bishop Jett, founder and first Headmaster of Virginia Episcopal School and the first Bishop of the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia. The classic Pendleton Clark façade belies the modern interior that is a hub for students, parents, faculty, trustees and visitors. In 2020, the house underwent substantial renovations to prepare for its 13th Head of School, Garth Ainslie, who grew up in the house during his father Sandy Ainslie’s tenure as VES’ eighth Headmaster.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMANDA SMITHSON

119 OAKWOOD PLACE

1555 LINK ROAD

4012 PEAKLAND PLACE

400 VES ROAD

1101 GREENWAY COURT

Owners: Claudia & Mark Stubstad

This traditional home was built in 1949 and has been transformed by the owners, offering a unique twist on the classic Lynchburg Colonial Revival style. In 2022, every facet of this property underwent renovation, creating a living masterpiece that reflects the artistic design talent of its owners. Claudia, a self-taught artist, loves creating mixedmedia collage artwork, which is displayed throughout the home. The interior is bright and vibrant, with colorful textiles and wallpaper, elevating the works of art. The furniture and accessories reflect Mark’s extensive travels in Asia.

CAMP KUM-BA-YAH 4415 BOONSBORO ROAD

Nestled in a 47-acre urban forest with 42 acres in a conservation easement, Camp Kum-Ba-Yah (CKBY) Nature Center is a naturalized play and educational space for public enjoyment. Blue Ridge Conservation will supply information on native plants, pollinators and chemical-free yards, and local vendors will have plants and gardening products available for purchase.

Tickets are available online and at select local businesses: $50 in advance, $60 day of and $15 single-site. Boxed lunches are available for pre-order. Note: This is a park-and-walk tour; walking shoes are recommended. ✦

1101

CAMP KUM-BA-YAH

FLOORING

Piedmont Floor Show offers a modern showroom with a broad selection of floor coverings that provide an option for every purpose, budget and decorating style. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff is ready to help you with your floor covering needs as well as exclusive products, designer area rugs, exotic hardwood, authentic laminate, and custom-made rugs. We offer great prices, in-store financing, shop-at-home service, quality installation of all products and 100% customer satisfaction.

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