Roanoke Valley Summer 2016

HOME R O A N O K E

DESIGN

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VA L L E Y

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SUMMER LIVING outdoor rooms, fresh flower designs & entertaining al fresco

ALL ARE WELCOME

a renovation with a focus on gatherings

RETIREMENT LIVING

SUMMER 2016, VOL. 9, NO. 3

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HOME R O A N O K E

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VOLUME 9 ISSUE 3 PUBLISHER

Julie Pierce EDITOR IN CHIEF

Meridith Ingram ROANOKE EDITOR

Rory Rhodes ART DIRECTOR

Trisha Roth GRAPHIC ARTISTS

Amanda Adams Khristina Helmich CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cynthia BeMent Becky Calvert Lucy Cook Andie Gibson Jerry Hale Megan Hall Megan Jansen Mary Ellen LaFreniere Sloane Lucas Adrienne Mand Lewin Noelle Milam Rory Rhodes Christy Rippel PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kevin Hurley KG Thienemann

THE VALLEY’S LARGEST LOCALLY OWNED REAL ESTATE FIRM Whether you are moving across town or across the country, you can trust MKB to handle every detail. Our award winning relocation team, property management services, and in-house mortgages in partnership with Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group provides an unparalleled depth of service. Service makes the difference in relocation and MKB, REALTORS® has been offering outstanding full service since 1973.

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Colleen Miller ADVERTISING SALES

Liz Houhoulis Janet Lampman Anne Marie Poore DISTRIBUTION

Beth Moore SUBSCRIPTIONS

Roanoke Valley HOME is published five times annually

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

IMAGE COURTESY OF PHILLIP BARRETT, JR.

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

Contact Connie Hash, Relocation Director

chash@mkbrealtors.com Roanoke Office: 3801 Electric Rd., Roanoke, VA 24018 540.989.4555 • 800.879.6527 Botetourt Office: 116 Kingston Dr., Daleville, VA 24083 540.966.1277 Serving the Greater Roanoke Area, New River Valley and Smith Mtn. Lake

Visit us at www.MKBREALTORS.com LOCALLY OWNED • LOCALLY OPERATED • LOCALLY INVOLVED 6

West Willow Publishing Group, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2016 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned. As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

E

n EDITOR’S NOTE Summer more than any season has a particular mindset, don’t you think? It’s when we make a conscious effort to slow down, take a vacation, bask in outdoor fun.

Though Virginia is pretty temperate and we do get to play outside other times of the year, summer is about savoring the delights unique to the season, literally and figuratively.

This issue of HOME will help you on both counts. Literally, this issue is about savoring summer with your senses. Enjoy some recipes featuring the darling of the summer orchard: peaches.

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly ripe peach (is your mouth watering?), so take advantage of this seasonal pleasure while you can. We also include a tribute to iced tea, including ideas and inspiration to celebrate your days with the South’s signature drink. And our article on floral arranging will help give new life to your fragrant, colorful summer bouquets.

For savoring on a more figurative level, we’re here to help you relish in those perfect summer evenings when it’s not too hot, not too cool, from the comfort of your newly designed or redesigned outdoor room. You can create an outdoor room no matter what space you’re working with, using simple, subtle touches that can make it as comfortable and welcoming as your interiors. We also show you the best way to set up a grilling station that will make your next cook-out easier and thus more fun—no more frantically searching for grilling tongs, running out of propane,

or being stranded at the grill while everyone else gathers in the kitchen. Our article on porch swings may inspire you to add one to your porch—front or back—this summer. Lounging, grilling, swinging in the breeze with a glass of iced tea … sounds like a perfect summer day at home to me!

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

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

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

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Great kitchens are like great meals. You have to know where to look for the right ingredients.

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R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

contents Ro a n o ke Va ll ey H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

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54

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features RET I REM EN T L I V I N G I N T H E ROA N OK E VA L L E Y

Communities that help seniors live life to the fullest

BY CY N T H IA B E M E N T

T REN DS I N C OU N T ER T OP S

What material will dazzle in your kitchen?

54

BY N O E L L E M I L A M

73

BY R O RY R H O D E S

T H E M ORE, T H E M ERRI ER!

Renovated home is haven for fun with family and friends C REAT I N G A N OU T DOOR ROOM

Design a space outdoors where you can savor summer

BY R O RY R H O D E S

Cover photography by Kevin Hurley at the home of Juli and Steve Murden

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HOME Magazine r vhomemaga zine .com 9

Ro a n o ke Va ll ey H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

departments 25

22

77

28

DESIGN

IMPROVE

GARDEN

LIVE

22 F U N, F UN KY PAI NTS DIY paint projects never looked better

33 GET GR I L L I N G Organize a grilling station for fun, efficient cook-outs

BY S LOAN E LU CAS

BY M EGAN HALL

28 BEST I N L OU N G I N G Porch swings provide a place to relax and enjoy your garden

25 C H E E R S FO R TH E RED , W H I TE A N D B L UE Party ideas using summer’s favorite colors

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

BY M EGAN JAN S E N

50 W H AT ’ S N EW I N T H E G A RDEN ?

New annuals are ready for summer’s heat

43 T H E G R E AT OUTD O O R S Enjoy Roanoke’s many outdoor fun and fitness options

46 C HANG E UP YOU R C HA I RS A few new pieces, a whole new look

77 ROOF MA I N TEN A N C E How to keep your roof in good repair

BY CYNTH IA B E M E NT

BY J E R RY HALE

BY B EC KY CALVE RT

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

33

68 T H E A R T OF F L ORA L A RRA N G EM EN T S Put your best bloom forward with tips from a pro

64 IT’S PEACH SEASON Recipes to savor the perfection of peaches

BY LU CY C O O K

BY MARY E LLE N LAF R E N I E R E

80 SOUTH E R N S I P S Quench your thirst with the South’s signature drink: iced tea

BY AN D I E G I B S O N

64 S PEC IAL INTE REST 8 2 Index of advertisers 10

R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

The curtain rises on another day

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r vhomemaga zine .com 11

Golden YEARS THE

Understanding Today’s Retirement Living

BY CY N T HI A B EMEN TÂ

Weighing the option to move to a retirement community is one of the most important decision-making processes you’ll face, one that involves so much more than choosing floor plans and checking amenity lists. In the Roanoke Valley, life is the operative word when it comes to choices for retirement living, with numerous options for living vibrantly while planning for future care as you age. Though finding the right retirement community can seem like a daunting process and the options may at first seem overwhelming, making the choice to have choices by planning ahead and carefully working through the research process can put time on your side. Here, we talk with two area communities about retirement living in the Roanoke Valley and give you some tips on planning this chapter of your life on your own terms.

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Senior Living Today: More Options for Living Your Way

Many retirement living communities today place their emphasis on creating mentally and physically active living environments that residents can customize to suit their needs, while taking away the weight of some of the daily chores and responsibilities of living in a single family home. “The Roanoke Valley has seen an increased number of retirement living options in the last 10 years,” says Helen Burnett, marketing director at The Glebe retirement community, located on the former Ikenberry apple orchard in Daleville. “Retirees can choose from active adult communities, rental communities, assisted living communities or, if needed, nursing homes.” The Glebe is a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) comprised of independent living, assisted living, and long-term nursing care.

“The typical consumer is looking for flexible dining options that support multiple dietary goals, an active engaged lifestyle that supports a proactive approach to physical, mental and spiritual wellness, and no home maintenance,” Burnett says.

The Glebe offers residents a wide variety of living choices, with seven different floor plans for its 133 one- and twobedroom apartments, and four different styles in its 20 twobedroom cottage homes. Also on campus are an art and woodworking studio, library, business center, vegetable gardens and a greenhouse.

R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

r vhomemaga zine .com 15

B r a n d o n O a ks

Breathtaking view. Mouth-watering food.

The life here never gets old.

Brandon Oaks, a Life Plan Community in Roanoke, is also focused on giving residents as much control over their lifestyles as possible through customization, and by striving to preserve residents’ independence at every juncture of the retirement-living experience. (A Life Plan Community is one in which a resident comes into independent living then moves through levels of care, as needed, without an increase in their monthly service fee due to a change in care needs.) “There’s also the opportunity for incoming residents to customize their apartment with flooring, paint colors— all the things that make a residence feel like home,” says Carter Hanna, Brandon Oaks’ marketing director. “We have a team member [at Brandon Oaks] in each phase of the moving process to help with each aspect of making this change in your life.” Offering 29 different floor plans ranging from 510 to 2,400 square feet that include apartments, village homes, cottages and more, Brandon Oaks provides neighborhood living on lush, wooded grounds while being close to the bustle of Roanoke and Salem for day trips to area arts and attractions like the Taubman Museum of Art and Smith Mountain Lake.

More comes together at The Glebe than just the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and the inviting Roanoke Valley. Wonderful friendships are formed in this Life Care retirement community. Lives are enriched through continued learning and inspiring cultural programs. Time is all yours, and the worries of maintaining a home are not yours at all. It can only be called a wonderful way of living. Call to learn more.

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Wellness is also a key focus of retirement living in 2016. “We opened the Johnson Aquatic Center in 2013, which features a salt water pool and spa,” says Burnett of The Glebe’s commitment to wellness. “We also took the opportunity to invest in a state-ofthe-art fitness program that our residents have embraced; we offer many levels of fitness classes with programs designed to help residents gain strength, lose weight, improve balance, and many other wellness goals.” The Johnson Center is staffed with certified fitness trainers and its class offerings include tai chi, gait and balance, yoga and Pilates, as well as massage therapy and occupational, speech and physical therapy sessions.

When to Consider Retirement Living

While the right time is different for each person making the decision to move into a senior living situation, addressing it before you’re forced to gives you control over your choices and helps ensure you’ll be able to continue your current lifestyle now and into the future. You’ll also take the burden off of extended family members who might have to decide your living situation for you if something should happen to your health and you need continuing care. In short, construct a plan and communicate your plan to family members. “My advice for anyone thinking about making a move is this: don’t wait until you have to make a move; do it while you can still manage the move yourself,” says Burnett. “Often, people I speak with are worried about how hard it will be to sell their house and move.

I try to help people realize that while they may be giving up a house, they are gaining so much more by moving to The Glebe, where residents experience a truly worry-free lifestyle.” Additionally, Burnett points out, couples who are considering retirement living may benefit by making the move before it becomes necessary, in order to ensure that they can stay together—not be split up—if the need for an elevated level of care should arise for one partner in the future.

“We are finding that people who come to see us about living at Brandon Oaks are planners—you want to know what’s in store for you five, ten, fifteen years from now, which makes sense because we are a Life Plan Community that offers LifeCare,” says Hanna. “We are seeing a r vhomemaga zine .com 17

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younger, more savvy prospect coming in to look at retirement living with us, either because they’ve had to deal with a parent or aunt or uncle who didn’t have a plan when their living or health situation change was made and their family had to scramble to find somewhere for them to go.” She also points out that moving to a retirement community can greatly enhance one’s social ties and feeling of well-being. “Once you reach a certain point in your life, we’ve really found that the sense of camaraderie of just being with others instead of being alone is so reassuring to people. It’s a sense of security that’s so important— it’s knowing we’re all right here to help.”

Look for the Lifestyle

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

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

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

R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

Experience Community Culture

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

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

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

“There’s such a sense of family here. We really take care of each other as employees and as residents, and I don’t think everybody can say that where they work,” says Hanna. “I love to see when a resident trusts me when they’re scared to move here and they later say, ‘You were right, it all fell into place.’ The way people find out they’re ultimately connected is basically like one big giant scrapbook. I feel honored to work here every day. It’s a great place to be.”

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Second Home Becomes

Spa Retreat

Loni and Scott Kula contacted Brian Wisler of Wisler Plumbing to help transform the master bath of their Smith Mountain Lake home into a classic spa getaway.

The focal point of the master bath is a freestanding air bath featuring a radiant heat system. Other luxurious features include a heated towel warmer, teak fold-up seats in the shower and an enhanced showering system that includes a showerhead and separate hand shower.

The other three bathrooms in the home received similar updates to carry the spa theme throughout.

In addition to the spa experience, cooking is a shared hobby of the Kulas and they wanted to create a classic yet functional space for enhanced meal preparation. A white cast iron sink, matching prep sink, traditional style pull-down spray faucet and filtered water faucet in chrome were added to complete the look.

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Brian worked with the product experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery to help the Kulas select products that featured luxurious amenities and practical functionality. “I’ve worked with Ferguson since 1986, because they offer a wide selection of products and their product experts stay involved through each step of the project to support us from start to finish.” For your next project, request an appointment to see, touch and compare top-selling lighting, appliances and bath and kitchen products at Ferguson’s state-of-the-art showroom.

Images courtesy Wisler Plumbing. Products available at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

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t n i a p

n DESIGN UNIQUE PAINT TREATMENTS

PROJECT

A Guide to Fun and Funky Paint Options

BY S LOA N E LU C AS

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

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

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

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

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

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

2 2

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

■ Chalky

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

■ Traditional

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

■ Chalky

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

■ Milk

SIM ILARITIES: ■ Because

Milk Paint vs. Chalky Paint

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

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

The term Chalk Paint® is trademarked

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

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

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

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

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

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

■ Both

paints can be applied with either a brush or roller.

■ For

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

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

■ Both

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

DIFFERENCES: ■ With

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

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

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

■ The

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

■ Milk

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

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

■ Chalk-type

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

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Whitewash

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

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

Understand, whitewashing can be labor intensive, depending on how big of a project you are planning. Surfaces should be clean of dust, oils or grease, so powerwashing exteriors or wiping down an indoor fireplace is key. You will also need to dampen (not drench) the surface of any material with water just before you apply the whitewash. You will also need to keep stirring the whitewash during application to prevent the lime from settling and to keep the mixture even. Materials are easy to procure, though. All you need is a bucket and a flat brush or masonry paintbrush.

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

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

Or, just let it wear down naturally.

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

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n LIVE PATRIOTIC PARTIES

CELEBRATE

Summer with

R e d , W hi t e a n d B l ue

BY M EG A N JA NS EN

Summer’s the time for us to celebrate America’s holidays; Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day are all national holidays that call for the red, white and blue. With national holidays unofficially marking the beginning and end of summer fun, it could be argued that these are the official theme colors of summer!

If you’re planning a get-together, just look around your house, and you’ll probably find items to use in a patriotic color scheme: a blue-striped or red-checkered tablecloth, a navy blue sheet, colored placemats or napkins to set under serving dishes… you may already have more items than you think, that when combined, make a patriotic display. On your buffet table, you can make things more interesting by using various heights with (napkin-covered) cake stands or cookie tins. Spend on something that provides some pop like a red, white and blue bunting or colorful paper lanterns. Show your spirit by flying “Old Glory” off

your deck, at the front door, or from a flag holder mounted on a tree; line your front path with miniature versions of our flag easily accessible this time of year at the dollar store or online.

Flowers are a key summer decor component, and make the perfect addition to this kind of celebration—think shiny blue ceramic pots filled with massive red geraniums. Another way to achieve the patriotic look is by simply spray painting old pots in red, white or blue. Container gardens planted earlier in the summer are given a boost when you insert a few small flags.

Smaller pots can go straight to your red, white and blue buffet table. Pull those blue-and-white ginger jars decorating your mantels and bookshelves out for the festivities and fill them with red roses for instant red-white-and-blue flair.

When throwing a party, be sure to tell guests to “think patriotic,”’ or write “patriotic costumes welcome” on your invitation. Part of the fun is seeing who arrives in an Uncle Sam hat, brings a smartphone-recording of “America the Beautiful” for all to sing along, or has a guitar to lead singing of “This Land is Your Land.” Provide guests with the printed lyrics, easily found online, so everyone can participate in the singalong.

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HoUsE& GardEN toUr

of Floyd County JUNE 25, 2016

Summer menus abound in patriotic choices. Cut seedless watermelon with a star cookie cutter and spear it on a skewer with a row of blueberries. Other festive skewers include a small mozzarella ball, a basil leaf, a cherry tomato and a couple blueberries drizzled with a balsamic glaze set on a bed of fresh herbs. Huge strawberries can be cut in half, and filled with cream cheese and topped with blueberries. As for dinner, nothing says “American” better than grilled hamburgers, hot dogs (there are even low-fat, additive-free ones now) and corn on the cob. Desserts range from a flag sheet cake with white frosting, decorated with red berry stripes and a top left-corner blueberry background for white stars piped on from a pastry bag, to stunning white-chocolate-dipped strawberries with the pointed end dipped in blue sprinkles—a red, white and blue look on each berry!

Top off your party with some games—horseshoes and oldfashioned corn hole. You could even redecorate your plain corn hole boards with patriotic-colored duct tape for the occasion.

July Fun

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Were you too busy with family activities or visiting relatives to have a party at July 4th time? Hooray for the red, white and blue! Those same colors can stick around for the French national holiday, the 14th of July, Le Quatorze Juillet, also known as Bastille Day. We can never have enough partying, so let’s celebrate that too! Even though the French call their flag “Blue, White and Red”—the colors’ order of appearance from flagpole outward—the look is the same. Keep your decorations for the Fourth, and go French with a party menu that showcases easy-to-make-ahead ham-and-cheese-filled crepes, or a quiche with a green salad, crusty French bread and a dessert of white meringues topped with red or blue fruit and a dollop of whipped cream. You can easily make a few French signs, saying “Ooooooh La La!,” “S’il Vous Plait” and “Merci!” and a couple of homemade paper French flags to add to the ambiance.

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A Nautical Party

Your red, white and blue from May to September can easily become a nautical theme just by the addition of a bit of yellow. To have fun with the nautical theme, incorporate nautical flags. It’s easy to find a “key” online that translates alphabet letters into nautical flag equivalents. Decorate with flag “words” such as your name, “love,” “summer” or “enjoy” made from pieces of construction paper glued to a background. Each guest can make his or her own name on a sheet you have prepared with the correct flags for each name, using his “flag key” to arrange the letters.

Decorations become nautical with the addition of nets, colored wooden fish and shells collected from beach trips. Put on some Jimmy Buffet music, and everyone will sail away.

Foods include deviled egg boats with red, green or yellow pepper flags, boat-shaped breads topped with salmon and a toothpicked sail (paper or cheese), large cheese wedges with a skewered “sail” identifying the type, napkin-wrapped eating utensils tied with twine and a Lifesaver, and of course, goldfish. A main dish of seafood, whether shrimp or crab served in sauce from large individual scallop shells or a crab salad on croissants carries on the nautical theme. Desserts could include red-, white- and bluedipped strawberries, a sheet cake with designs of boats and waves on top or individual blue-frosted cupcakes set on a large tray in the shape of an anchor.

“Ahoy, matey! Come for whatever floats your boat,” announces your invitation to guests. Will someone appear in an eye patch and pirate headscarf? Or wearing a military hat and old Navy medals? Sporting clam diggers with a parrot on their shoulder?

That’s the fun of a theme.

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n GARDEN PORCH SWINGS

Groove

Garden in your

Porch swings add style and comfort to your outdoor space

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

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Nothing says “ultimate summer day” more than a lazy afternoon lounging on a comfy porch swing. There are many options for installing a porch swing at your home—even if you don’t have a porch.

The main things to consider are materials, construction and style. Style is the easy part—swings can be contemporary masterpieces with cool metals and sleek lines, incredibly rustic and natural using warm woods, or straight out of a Southern Gothic novel with intricate decorative iron scrolls and fretwork. Porch swings can be made for one or seat up to three, while some of the suspended-day-bed-styles can squeeze in more.

That’s all up to personal taste, but there are certain traits to consider.

Most swings are made of wood, wicker or plastic, and you can even upcycle one using a chair without legs by following do-it-yourself construction plans available at garden centers or outdoor living websites. When purchasing a porch swing, the material is crucial for durability as well as aesthetics. Prices vary widely, from less than $100 to $1,000 and beyond.

Many common woods are used in porch swings, including redwood, ash, Western red cedar, and pine, which stand up to weather conditions and are durable. Ipe and teak are more expensive hardwoods. Also popular is cypress for its resistance to warping and ease of painting and staining. Colors may complement your exterior or you can add a wow-factor by choosing a punch of bold color to contrast the existing design.

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Distinctive

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Sustainable

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Beautiful

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There are many less-expensive options made of “solid wood,” but often these products are not suitable for use outdoors as they can deteriorate when left outside. Chairs should be made of at least 3/4-inch-thick wood for best support and durability.

They should always be held together with screws, especially stainless steel, galvanized and zinc-plated, to resist rust.

Hardened steel, however, tends to corrode and should not be used for outdoor swings.

When installing a porch swing, allow for at least a 4-foot arc for adequate swinging room. In addition to the fasteners, galvanized or stainless steel chains may be used to hang the swing, as can marine-grade braided nylon or polyester rope.

S-hooks and eye-bolts may be used to hang from the ceiling of your porch and they should have 4- to 6-inch shafts.

Professionals with experience hanging swings may be your best bet for installation.

Swings always should hang from a sturdy roof joist.

If yours are covered by roofing material, cut a section to find them. If they are not available, hang the swing from a freestanding frame.

Seats should be about 18 inches off the ground for easy access. Measure the height of the beam, and a hardware store can cut the chains or rope for you. Swings should be supported by two chains in front and two chains in back for stability. Pro tip: Sit on the swing before purchasing it. The look may be exactly what you like, but if it’s not comfortable it will defeat the purpose. Try tossing some attractive yet squishy throw pillows, lumbar pillows in a pretty fabric, or blankets to cuddle up in on cool nights.

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Try tossing some attractive yet squishy throw pillows, lumbar pillows in a pretty fabric, or blankets to cuddle up in on cool nights.

Another current trend in decking out your porch is sofa swings or suspended day beds. Why just sit when you can recline? These typically are between 5 and 6 feet in length and are wide enough to hold a twin- or queen-sized mattress with the pillows and cushions of your choice. These provide all of the comfort and style of the most relaxing beds transported to the outdoors. Day beds are notably heavier than swings, so consult a construction expert on the correct devices needed for safe support from your structure.

There also are many options for swings or beds that are free-standing using frames that can be placed anywhere if you do not have a porch or a roof to hang them from. All of the various swings are available at garden centers, outdoor furniture stores and online. Or have a creative carpenter install a customdesigned swing in your yard.

With all of the many options out there for any budget, there’s no reason not to wile the hours away swinging in the breeze.

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Pride, Integrity, Trust

“We are committed to providing superior value for every single dollar that our clients spend with us.”

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for

ASK uS AbOut OuR

ADVERtISING OPPORtuNItY For advertising information contact

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HOME R O A N O K E

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n IMPROVE GRILL STATIONS

GRILL CENTRAL Set up the envy of all grill stations

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

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

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

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

M

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Crank Up the Tunes

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

Safety First

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

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

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

Propane users are encouraged to utilize a gas monitor gauge.

This little gadget allows you to keep a close eye on the amount of fuel you have in the tank so you can avoid a heartbreaking half34

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

The Grilling Station

We’re ready to talk about the foundation of any great grilling experience: the grill and prep space. This is where the magic happens so allow adequate room. Do you want your guests near you while you cook? Consider placing an outdoor dining table adjacent to the grill area. Do you typically cook in the evening? Snag a battery-powered grill light that clamps to the side of your grill (available in hardware stores and online retailers). You don’t have to have an expensive outdoor kitchen to be comfortable. Use your imagination—look around your house for underutilized pieces or visit your local thrift store for inexpensive finds. A simple potting bench can be placed next to a grill to create more prep space. A piece of lattice can be hung beside the grill for storage and organization—add a few s-hooks and buckets for perfect utensil and gadget holders.

Outdoor storage ottomans make great places for storage (or a hidden cooler!) and allow for extra seating. Small fans help combat pesky bugs and also keep you cool while you master the grill. If you’ll have a lot of little ones running around, designate a spot a safe distance from the grill and install a chalkboard or a children’s kitchen so they can feel involved in the process.

Make this an extension of your indoor living space—comfortable and functional.

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Accessorizing Your Space

An outfit is never complete without the perfect accessories, and the same applies to grill stations. Invest in a few key pieces to take your grilling to the next level. Cedar grilling planks are the perfect complement to fish. Toss your fish filet on one of those little planks, place it on the grill, grab a cold drink and wait. In no time you’ll unveil a masterpiece your guests will swear took hours to season. Spices are another great investment.

Pre-made grilling blends can be picked up at your local grocery store, but sometimes it’s more fun to make your own. Grab a small ramekin and experiment. For blends with a kick, employ options like cayenne pepper and Creole seasoning. For sweeter varieties, try mixing honey, pepper jelly and honey mustard. When you find the perfect creation, make a slightly larger batch and store it in an airtight container so it’s readily available for that inevitable last-minute cookout.

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

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BEYOND THE SURFACE All you need to know about choosing kitchen countertops

BY N O EL L E M I L A M

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While cabinets, appliances and fixtures are important parts of any kitchen, we all know that it is the countertops that bear the brunt of our daily lives. From fixing that first morning cup of coffee, to mixing, chopping, and assembling meals, to serving as a buffet or homework station, countertops are the one part of your kitchen that gets nearly constant and varied use.

If you’re in the market for a countertop update, it’s important to evaluate all of your choices for this all-important kitchen feature, gathering as much information as you can. After all, today’s countertops are made to last for decades, if not generations, so this could be a long-term relationship. It’s easy to fall in love while watching a cooking show, with say, a Carrera marble countertop, as the show host enthuses about how wonderful it is for rolling out dough. But despite its beauty (and handiness for pastry-making), is Carrera the right choice for your family’s countertops? What about a sleek, stainless-steel prep area, or a rustic butcher block top? Countertops offer large expanses of flat space that will immediately draw the eye. In fact, countertops are often the first thing most people will register when walking into a kitchen for the first time. Savvy buyers, looking to replace an old countertop or install a new one, will have one eye on the functionality of a material, but another on the aesthetics of their material of choice and how it works within the decor of the kitchen and the home itself. r vhomemaga zine .com 37

Today’s homeowners are fortunate to have so many choices when it comes to countertop materials, from real quarried stone, to manufactured stone, to solid surfaces, to laminate … your choices are nearly endless—and possibly overwhelming. We’ve heard that “natural finishes” are a popular trend, and indeed granite and other stones seem to be perennial favorites for countertop materials in our area. However, new materials are giving trusty granite a run for its money. Page Eggleston of Spectrum Stone Design, for example, says that quartz, or engineered stone, is now challenging granite as their number-one seller. “People are going for softer, lighter natural colors, and less busy patterns in their surfaces,” Eggleston explains.

“Quartz is able to replicate the solidcolored, light stones, such as marble, without the concerns of etching, staining or chipping often associated with the softer natural stones.” Natural or naturallooking surfaces are enjoying tremendous popularity at the moment, but there are many ways to get a natural-looking countertop without investing in stone.

With modern manufacturing techniques, 3 8

many of the manufactured solid surfaces, and even laminate, can look practically indistinguishable from real stone, perform beautifully for years, and have price points to fit almost every budget.

Additionally, there are some breathtaking alternatives to granite that are worth considering depending on your family’s needs and tastes, including stainless steel, wood, and even concrete. So which surface is right for you, your kitchen, and your family?

Natural Stone

(Examples: Granite, Marble, Soapstone, Limestone, Quartzite) Natural stone remains the number-one choice for most countertops in our area.

Unmatched in beauty and completely unique, every slab will have differences in pattern and hue, complements of Mother Nature. Because of this uniqueness, natural stone will never look completely uniform or color-consistent. This is seen as a strength to some, and a drawback to others. It really depends on your perspective. Sheri Howard, designer and kitchen and bath specialist at The Cabinet

Gallery in Hardy, explains that, while some people may be frustrated by stone’s lack of uniform pattern, particularly when trying to match countertop materials at the inevitable seams, most find that the natural beauty is worth it. “Especially in some of the new ‘leathered’ finishes,” she notes, “which just came on the market a few years ago.” These matte finishes solve some of the issues that ultra-reflective, highly polished stone caused, such as reflecting the underside of the cabinets.

“Not the desired effect!” Howard laughs.

The leathered finish gives a softer and less reflective look to natural stone countertops and is proving a popular choice, especially in historic homes.

Natural stone refers to both granite and relatively softer stone, such as limestone, marble, or soapstone. Of the natural stone choices, granite is the most beloved (and most used) because of its durability. If properly sealed, granite is virtually stainproof, and is impervious to scratches and heat and water damage. In fact, if you cut vegetables directly on a granite countertop with regularity, you’ll find your knives will dull quickly. Whatever finish you choose, keep in mind that all natural R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

Natural stone refers to both granite and relatively softer stone, such as limestone, marble, or soapstone. Of the natural stone choices, granite is the most beloved (and most used) because of its durability. stone will need to be professionally sealed before installation, and depending on your stone, at regular intervals in the years to come. For most natural stone countertops, subsequent sealing can usually be easily done by the homeowner.

“Softer” stones, like marble, limestone, or soapstone are also very popular choices, due to their color and texture. But often, because of their softness, they will chip or scar in the daily wear and tear of family life. With its matte finish and soft “soaplike” feel, soapstone is a perennial favorite. Soapstone is particularly popular in our area of Virginia, as we are home to the sole soapstone quarry (Alberene in Nelson County) left in the United States.

In Virginia, soapstone is the “buy local” of countertop materials.

Make an appointment to visit our showroom and see all the ways we can breathe new into your home.

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Engineered Stone

(Also Known as Quartz) Engineered stone, or quartz, is indeed real stone (usually 93 percent reclaimed marble, granite or quartz) that is finely ground, and mixed with a durable binding material. The engineered stone products of today display the beauty of the natural stone they are made from, yet are very uniform, which makes it easier for installers to hide seams, and they are slightly easier to fabricate and install than natural stone.

Different manufacturers such as Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria and Hanstone specialize in mimicking specific natural stone, explains Eggleston. “It’s rather like blue jeans manufacturers, in that everyone has their niche,” she says.

At Spectrum Stone Designs, Eggleston has also noted an uptick in popularity of quartz that comes in the soft, light neutral colors of Carrera marble or limestone. As homeowners are tending to prefer a lighter, brighter surface for their countertops, they can opt for the durable look-alike, rather than putting in marble and stressing about stains or etching every time they pour a glass of wine. “Also, it’s hard to find granites in soft colors,” Page notes, “but with quartz, the possibilities are plentiful.” Her one caution is to avoid putting anything hotter than 350 degrees on quartz. “It’s in the fine print from the manufacturer,” she cautions, “so I always recommend care with super-hot cookware.”

Howard sees an increase in popularity with her clients as well.

“Many clients that have had granite are now switching to quartz,” she says. She adds that quartz is nearly as strong as natural stone and far less porous, meaning that it is less likely to stain, and it never needs sealing, so it is virtually maintenance-free. She says, “The majority of customers these days are looking for ease of maintenance, and quartz gives them just that.” With its easy care, natural look and excellent durability, it’s easy to see why quartz is the “up and coming” material for many of today’s countertops.

Synthetic Solid Surface

(Examples: Corian, Living Stone) Synthetic solid surface countertops are made of polyester resins, acrylic and pigments. They stand up to natural stone and engineered stone in terms of durability and often come with generous warranties. They are completely non-porous, and stain-, mildew- and germ-resistant, and can be made to look like virtually anything from stone, to copper, to beach sand. For those with a strict decorating palette, the color choices are extensive, and can come in finishes from glossy to matte. While synthetic solid surfaces shouldn’t have hot pots or pans placed on them, and shouldn’t be cut directly upon, it is a simple matter to buff out most light scratches, and homeowners appreciate that there is zero maintenance for these countertops.

Laminate/Formica

Laminate countertops are a budget-friendly alternative as a countertop material, and as such, they have been popular since the 1950s. Laminate countertops are made from wood, or pressed wood, wrapped in a “laminate”—a heavy-duty vinyl material imprinted with the customer’s choice of color or pattern. Laminate is generally easy to install, and because it does not require specialized tools and is relatively lightweight, it is a solid choice for a DIY countertop project. Today’s laminate comes in every color under the sun, including patterns and finishes, and if treated gently (no cutting directly on laminate, and don’t place hot dishes or pots directly on in) will stand up to years of use.

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Wood/Butcher Block

Wood countertops, made from hardwoods such as maple, oak or walnut, and increasingly bamboo, are naturally antibacterial and infuse the home with a warmth unachievable in other countertop materials. Wood countertops are formed by running the wooden rails parallel to each other (known as “edge grain”) or by fusing the end of the rails in a chessboard pattern (known as “end grain”). Of the two, end grain will be the most durable, but will also be the most expensive. Proponents of wooden countertops cite the convenience of being able to chop and dice right on the countertop (assuming it is sealed with a food-safe sealant, rather than polyurethane), and the ease of cleaning (usually just warm soapy water), as well as the warm, rustic feel wood imparts to any room. Be advised that wood will scorch if hot pans are placed on it directly, and requires regular sanding and oiling to keep it looking its best. You should also wipe up water spills and drips quickly, as standing water can cause warping or mildew. Because of the upkeep and care requirements, many local designers recommend wood countertops in more of an “accent” role.

Concrete

Concrete is no longer just a material to be used in foundations and flooring, but is becoming increasingly popular as a countertop material. Concrete can be poured into any shape, and is often a “green” choice due to its use of recycled or recyclable elements such as glass and aggregate. In the Roanoke area, Richard Taylor, owner of Designed Concrete Surfaces, explains the unique benefits of concrete as a countertop material.

Any Room, Any Project!

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rom cabinetry, to counter tops, to tile back splashes, to cabinet inserts, to LED under and inner cabinet lighting needs, quality design and installation and much more, our trained, certified staff is here to help you with FREE estimates. It is our goal to educate and listen to our clients, treating you as we would want to be treated ourselves. Come see us and discover how Beauty, Quality and Cost effectiveness can all be had with our USA made products.

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“Correctly engineered concrete is basically liquid stone,” he says, “and because concrete is poured, rather than carved like stone, it can be shaped in endless artistic and creative ways.” His countertops, for example, can be manufactured with built-in drain boards, trivets, and custom “drop front” edges. Concrete can also be made to look like natural stone. “If you can’t find a stone you like,” he says, “we can make you something you will love. Custom.”

Taylor, who is a mechanical engineer, explains that concrete is a naturally porous substance and needs to be carefully blended to minimize chipping or stains, and professionally sealed to preserve its durability. In fact, he and his team at Designed Concrete Surfaces have been perfecting the chemistry of their formula for the past ten years, and enjoy the creative challenge of customizing countertops for customers. One of his favorite examples is a custom bar-area counter in the home of an avid bicyclist. “We were actually able to imbed little bike gears and parts into the countertop…Talk about a conversation piece!” For these reasons, Taylor says, concrete is definitely worth serious consideration for those looking for a unique and durable countertop with heirloom potential.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is the material of choice in commercial or industrial kitchens, but it is increasingly becoming popular as a countertop material in residential kitchens as well. Prized for its durability, it has found a new place in the sleek, modernindustrial look which is very popular today. Taking its place next to the stainless appliances that have been popular for years, stainless steel is relatively easy to install (professional installers will “wrap” it around a backing material like plywood to give

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added strength and to attach it to the cabinets). Stainless has practically no upkeep and is easy to clean. It doesn’t scorch, stain or mildew, and scratches can be buffed out easily, though dents can sometimes be a problem. Stainless is 100 percent recyclable, making it an earth-friendly alternative as well.

Other than the material itself, what else can affect the price of your new countertops? Pricing of most countertops is done by square foot. There are three basic things that affect the pricing of your countertop material. First, the availability and location of the material; if you choose limestone from India, for example, you can expect the per-square-foot price to reflect not only the stone but the quarrying and transport costs for the stone. Second, the complexity of your design, sink placement and other countertop inserts, like integrated drain boards or trivets—affect the complexity (and therefore cost) of fabrication. Finally, your choice of edge for your countertops—round, ogee, bevel, bullnose, waterfall and many more depending on your fabricator—will affect your final price. Just be sure you know what is included with your per-square-foot price and what might be an upcharge to avoid any unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives. It’s also a good idea to ask about warranties available for the material and the installation, just in case.

A countertop is an investment and one you’ll likely have a long-term daily relationship with for many, many years. Like any relationship, you are wise to know its strengths and limits before going in. Before committing, it is important to ask questions and be certain that you choose the material that best suits your family’s needs before placing an order. Choose wisely, and stay on top of the recommended maintenance, and your countertops should reward you and your family with years of good service and good looks.

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n LIVE OUTDOOR FITNESS

get fit in the great roanoke outdoors Beginners are welcome on the trails, in the water and even on horseback

BY CH R IS T Y R I P P EL

The Roanoke Valley is a picturesque place to call home, with mountains and waterways creating a beautiful backdrop for daily life. This postcard-worthy scenery also creates a variety of natural opportunities for outdoor fitness with activities like hiking, biking and stand-up paddleboarding.

If you’ve lived here for any length of time, you probably know about the greenways— a system of paved trails reserved for recreational use that span many sections of Roanoke and surrounding communities. But if strolling the greenway is as far as you’ve ventured into the great outdoors, read on for other ways to get moving, get fit and take advantage of the place you call home. r vhomemaga zine .com 4 3

On Foot: Hiking, Running and Walking Your Way to Fitness

Roanoke is home to the Blue Ridge Marathon, billed as “America’s Toughest Road Marathon” and held in the city each April, along with half-marathon and 10K options. If completing a challenging race on hilly terrain isn’t on your bucket list, you can still find an organized 5K or trail run in the region every month of the year.

Training to run or run/walk one of these races with a local group can be a great motivator, and a way to meet new people.

Companies like RunAbout Sports and Fleet Feet offer training programs and running groups for everyone from newbies to racing veterans, and meet locally. Other informal groups like Roanoke Valley Trail Runners offer weekly trail run and walk groups and informal meet-ups, and beginners are welcome—so you can explore the local trails without fear of getting lost or left behind. Join their Facebook pages for more information.

If you want to give hiking a go, you don’t have to go far to get started. “We are so fortunate to have Mill Mountain right in the city with more than 10 miles of trails,” says James Revercomb, owner of Roanoke Mountain Adventures in Wasena, right off the greenway. “If you work in Roanoke, you can get off work and be on a trail in 15 minutes, which is pretty incredible for a city of this size east of the Mississippi River.”

In addition to Mill Mountain, there are hikes at different spots in the region suited to every skill level, including beginners.

Local favorites include a hike to Apple Orchard Falls, one of Virginia’s tallest and most scenic waterfalls, and Carvins Cove, an 800-acre reservoir with 60 miles of trails. The Roanoke Outside Foundation, a non-profit initiative created to showcase Roanoke’s outdoor opportunities, has maps and hiking details on its website, roanokeoutside.com.

On the Water: Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

The greenway follows sections of the Roanoke River, and the new foot and bike traffic brought renewed attention to this previously underused resource, says Pete Eshelman, director of Roanoke Outside and Director of Outdoor Branding for the Roanoke Regional Partnership. Kayaking is a great river activity for getting the heart pumping, and thanks to local enthusiasm and financial support, Eshelman says $77,000 was raised to build a new kayak launch in Roanoke City, scheduled to be finished in August of this year. Built on private land, it will be handed over to Roanoke City Parks and Recreation to maintain, providing a new and convenient access point to launch a kayak (roanokeriverblueway.org has more information).

Don’t want to invest in a kayak just yet, or want some guided instruction? Organizations like Roanoke City Parks and Recreation, Roanoke County Parks and Recreation and Roanoke Mountain Adventures offer kayak rentals and/or courses and guided tours. Roanoke Mountain Adventures also has an outdoor gear consignment shop, so you can pursue new outdoor fitness hobbies without breaking your budget.

Another way to get active in the river is with stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), which is the fastest-growing paddle sport in the world, according to Eshelman. Unlike kayaking, which can be done in either calm or rough/whitewater, SUP is best attempted in calm waters—which is probably why SUP yoga is now taking off, too (yes, it’s a thing—you can sign up for a class with Roanoke City Parks and Recreation). You can try out SUP 4 4

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totally free of charge during the GO Outside Festival, or GO Fest, which was created by Roanoke Parks and Recreation in conjunction with the Roanoke Regional Partnership. In its sixth year, the festival continues to grow in popularity (20,000 people attended last year) and is held each October in Roanoke.

On a Bike: Spin Your Way to Health with Trail Riding and Road Riding

There has always been a devoted cycling base in Roanoke, but now there are more opportunities than ever to get out there and get pedaling, even if you haven’t ridden a bike since childhood.

UnderDog Bikes, located on the greenway in Roanoke City, will rent adult and child bikes, but they also rent tandems and adult-sized trikes for something fun and different (helmets included). Many other outfitters, like Roanoke Mountain Adventures, will rent bikes for both road and trail adventures, and will take you on guided rides or provide the information you need for self-guided rides. There are several other bike shops in the area with knowledgeable staff who can set you up with a bike that meets your needs if you are ready to make an investment—a few are Cardinal Bicycle in Roanoke, East Coasters in Roanoke and Blacksburg, and Just the Right Gear in Salem.

Other Ways to Get Fit Outdoors

If you’re looking for a non-traditional way to strengthen your core while enjoying the outdoors, give horseback riding a try. While it won’t torch extra calories, it works the core muscles that stabilize the trunk, like the abdominals, back and pelvic muscles. There

are many horse farms in the area that offer lessons for the beginning rider, no matter your age. Group lessons for a few riders be as low as $35 an hour, while private lessons will cost in the range of $55 per hour at farms like the Harmony Equestrian Center in Fincastle. SE Greer Horse Riding offers half and fullday guided horseback rides, and Reba Farm offers trail rides as short as one hour, or as long as overnight rides/camping trips.

For all the information you need, go to roanokeoutside.com and check out the pages on “Horseback Riding Guides.” The Roanoke area has many dedicated horse trails geared for different levels of riders, from beginners to experienced equestrians.

Another great local resource for outdoor experiences is Camp Roanoke, which is nestled within 700 acres in Salem.

Opened in 1925, it operates traditional day and overnight camps for kids—but it has offerings for adults, too. A high ropes course, low ropes course, zip line (one of the longest tree-to-tree zip lines in Virginia on an accredited course) and a climbing wall with a 44-foot vertical climbing surface are all available for adult fun. Check out the camp’s website for more details at www.camproanoke.com.

Another option for getting off the ground is the aerial adventure course run by Mountain Lake Treetop Adventures, near Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke. The course includes rope bridges, ladders, and zip lines, and there are three separate courses for various ability levels in addition to a youth course for kids eight years old and up. If you want to make a mini-vacation out of it, the lodge offers a special “Everybody Plays” package, which includes three nights of lodging, breakfast, the adventure course as well as archery, mountain bike rentals and more.

r vhomemaga zine .com 4 5

n DESIGN DINING CHAIRS

CHANGE UP YOUR CHAIRS Create an exciting new look for your dining space

BY CY N T H I A B EM EN T

A great group of chairs can define the style of your dining space and even your whole home. With great opportunity comes great responsibility, however: your dining chairs have to perform in the areas of durability, comfort, and ease of care while they’re hanging around looking good in one of the most-used areas of your home. So when your chairs start to show their age, or if your dining space could use a style reboot, seize the opportunity to upgrade form, function and aesthetic in one fell swoop by bringing in a new—or new-to-you—set. Done well, the result can liven up your dining space and kick off a new style note for your home along the way.

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Before You Buy: Consider Space and Function

Before you head out to hunt down new chairs, ask yourself some key questions. How many do you plan to seat—just your family, or will you need extras for guests? Will the dining chairs live around the table 24/7 or will they moonlight as desk chairs in the home office or at the homework table? Do you plan to keep arm chairs around the table or pulled aside when not in use?

Consider who will be using the chairs most regularly. Upholstered host and hostess chairs look elegant but can be harder to grip and heavier to move for young children and older adults than chairs with open backs.

Measure your table, as well, to determine the space between its legs on each side so you can determine how many of your new chairs can fit around it (a good rule of thumb is to allow 24 inches of width along your dining table per chair). Also measure the table’s clearance from the floor to the bottom of its apron so that any arm chairs you choose can slide fully under the table. Also allow about 10 to 12 inches between the chair seat and bottom of the table apron for comfortable leg space. Lastly, measure the size of your dining area and consider traffic patterns, so that you can allow for maneuvering room around the chairs when pulled out from the table, and for chair placement in the dining space if you are placing seldom-used or supplemental chairs. r v h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 47

Let the Fun Begin: Mix and Match with Intent

COMING THIS SUMMER...

Now comes the fun part: chair shopping. One way to create interest with chairs is to mix things up. Matchy-matchy furniture-buying mandates are a thing of the past; today’s design landscape allows for endless creativity and for creating a collected-over-time look that can spark conversation (“where’d you find that?”) over your dining chair lineup.

A simple starting point is to find one unifying element to tie a set of chairs together. One effortless way is to purchase the same chair in different colors within a range (keep the color range tight). Another option is to unify random chair styles with a single color—great for thrift-store finds. Another way to achieve an eclectic look, without committing to too much color, is to pull a set together with neutrals: use a metal finish, or white, black or the same tone in different woods as the unifier. A common leg style (curved, straight, turned) can also bring together a collection of otherwise disparate chairs.

If you’re considering fabric-covered seats, use them to pull together unrelated chairs with a single fabric or add personality to a matched set with a different, coordinating fabric on each chair seat. Fabric choosing tip: Avoid fabrics with heavy naps such as chenille and velvet—they’ll show wear quickly.

Yet another option is to add a pop of color. Team matching side chairs with a pair of end chairs in a contrasting color, or switch up both color and style at the ends (a modern end pair with traditional side chairs, or vice versa). Slipcovers in these same grouping patterns can also be a great way to experiment with color and texture; opt for easy-care and consider purchasing spare covers.

Approach the Bench

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Another seating option to consider is a bench on one or two sides of your table. Benches optimize horizontal space (no chair arms means more sitting room) and visually eliminate the bulk in a dining space. When properly sized, they easily slide underneath the table when not in use. Benches actually take up less vertical space as well—you won’t bump arms or catch items while walking around chair backs which can be a boon in smaller spaces. Plus, the pulled-together look of chairs and a bench around a table creates effortless style and can lend an eclectic vibe to your dining space. Consider a single bench on either the long side or short side of a rectangular table with a suite of chairs. Benches also provide an opportunity to infuse color—and even durability—with fabric. Consider an upholstered bench seat covered in laminated fabric for the ultimate in easy-care seating.

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Build a Banquette

While banquettes represent a potentially bigger investment than a set of chairs, what they bring to the table in the way of intimacy, floor space economy, versatility and visual interest may make building one in your home worth considering. Whether U-shaped, semi-circle, straight or L-shaped (or a hybrid of any of these), banquettes can be placed against a recessed or standard flush wall space or under a window.

Standard banquette bench seats should measure 18 inches high to work with a 29 to 30-inch table height, and can pair with a wide variety of table shapes—one legroom-friendly option is to pair with a pedestal table. Banquettes can be installed permanently or created with free-standing furniture. Style-wise, they can go casual in a breakfast nook or all-out elegant in a formal dining room, depending on accompanying chair and table styles, fabrics and finishes.

Your dining space works hard in your home. With a little planning, you can unleash your creativity to enliven your dining space and create a more beautiful and functional place in which to break bread and make memories with family and friends.

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n GARDEN THE BEST ANNUALS

The New OldFaithfuls Learn about the latest in annuals

BY B ECK Y C A LV ER T

Right after humans learned to cultivate plants, they began experimenting in breeding them to get rid of characteristics deemed undesirable. Among the plants today that continue to benefit from this practice are floral annuals—those showy, easyto-grow favorites that are generally cultivated for their singular warm-weather garden performance, found in many a hanging basket or patio pot.

Improvements to the traditional standbys we look to for dependable, seasonal color in the garden include new colors, larger sizes, better heat (and cold) tolerance and overall resiliency.

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Some of the new annuals Barb Nelson of Townside Gardens is excited to share this year are the Gulliver Blue Bacopa, the Painted Red Bidens and the Sallyfun Saliva. The latest offering of the cascading annual Bacopa has larger flowers with vigorous cascading in a purple-with-sky-blue-tints blossom. The Painted Red Bidens, an annual popular with bees and butterflies that holds up well in both heat and drought conditions, initially opens up with orange petals around a yellow center. As they mature, the petals turn to shades of scarlet, creating a wonderful range of color within a single area of planting, while also attracting the activity of wildlife to the garden. Sallyfun Saliva, in shades of blue and true white, are both long-blooming and deer resistant, an asset to just about any garden these days. Perhaps most exciting to Nelson is the Hot Water Blue Lobeilla, a beautiful sky blue designed to “hold up in the all-day sun and heat of Roanoke summers”—always a desirable, but sometimeshard-to-find trait. r v h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 51

Other new annuals getting rave reviews include the coleus, with Nelson particular to the varieties that can withstand the full sun of summer. “Sun coleus are amazing in August and September,” raves Nelson. “When other annuals are getting tired, these remain spectacular.” Inky Fingers Coleus, with their scalloped, deep-purple leaves edged with bright green, and Redcoat with its bright red leaves, are just some of the new varieties available to add color and texture to your garden all summer long, no matter where they are planted.

Coleus is also a favorite of Greenbrier Nursery’s Jim Monroe, particularly this year’s Under The Sea Fishnet. With its purpleveined, sea-green filigreed-edged leaves, this partial-shade plant adds both color and texture. If it’s flowers that you are looking for, Little Lava begonia, a new dwarf orange-colored blooming, trailing begonia, promises to be great in combination plantings, retaining a compact size while maintaining a bright burst of color all season long. Perhaps Monroe’s favorite, though, is Hort Couture’s Monarch Promise Butterfly Weed, developed specifically to help the struggling monarch butterfly population whose numbers have dropped 90 percent over the last 20 years.

This annual milkweed provides food for and attracts activity of bees, butterflies and hummingbirds, while adding spectacular color with green and white leaves tipped in red, orange and pink, and bright orange-red flowers.

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While most areas have to wait years for the latest and greatest annuals to make their way to local markets, Roanoke has the advantage of being home to Hort Couture, considered the fashionista of the independent retailer set for the garden, as the plant varieties they develop are exclusive to independent garden markets. According to Monroe, “Roanoke is a test place for newer varieties,” with candidates for the next year available at his Greenbrier Nursery this season “to gauge interest” while also testing how they do in the heat of the Roanoke summers. Available in limited numbers, these candidates may be around in greater numbers the next season, or not, depending on how they perform.

Of course, not all annuals are limited to summer. Ronnie Mitchell, of Ronnie Mitchell & Son Landscaping & Lawncare, says the only annual he plants regularly is the reliable pansy. “It’s so tough,” he says—the only bit of color to hold up throughout the cold of winter, blooming again in the spring. For while we might be concerned with the current weather of warmer days and nights, let us not forget that coming quicker than we think is the cool of fall and winter, with the only annuals willing to sustain us being the often-overlooked pansy.

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Merrier

THE

A Team of Professionals and Friends Collaborates to Create a Home Fit for a Crowd

BY R O RY R H O D ES P h ot o gr a p hy by Kev in H ur l ey

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When Steve and Juli Murden were looking for a new home in Roanoke County, they found a place they thought had great potential. While the home was attractive and move-in ready, it was essentially a blank canvas, with mostly buildergrade materials, an unfinished basement, and a narrow driveway sandwiched between the garage and a hillside. Plus, it lacked some functionality and features that the Murdens wanted for their busy family of five. With over an acre of land, they had room to expand, but how?

Before they purchased the house, they had to know if some changes could be made. Says Juli, “We were looking for a house that we could add a first floor master to, and it’s hard to find a lot where you can make that happen.” Also, they needed a wider driveway, but a retaining wall was holding up the slope to a neighboring property, and they didn’t know if it could be moved.

“The lot, and the size of the house, and what we could do to it—it looked like a house that would work for our family,” says Steve, but they weren’t sure who would be able to handle the substantial renovation they had in mind. And because they needed to include the renovation plans in their financing, they had to work fast to come up with a solution. Enter George Baron of Baron Enterprises.

The Murdens knew Baron through their social circles but thought he only did new construction. When they found out he also did renovations, they talked to him about their ideas.

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The renovation—which included the driveway expansion, the addition of a utilitarian wing (the hard-working mudroom, pantry, laundry and more), master suite, large screened-in porch, and lower patio, as well as finishing the basement and modifying the kitchen, foyer, and living areas— was completed in an astounding five months.

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Baron knew he could handle the driveway expansion and the master suite, and also realized that he could improve the functionality of that side of the house to create a layout that would be ideal for their lifestyle. “He drew the plans and came up with all the conceptual ideas that matched what we wanted to achieve,” says Steve, adding, “We bought the house because we got confirmation from George that he could move the existing wall by the driveway to give us more turnaround space. I don’t know that anyone else would have been able to do what he did.”

With the winning plans in place, a team of people were brought in to make the dream a reality. Steve Morris of Classical Design, Inc, was instrumental in the process, designing the kitchen layout, and the cabinetry and hardware in key locations throughout the house.

Roanoke Landscaping handled the paver areas, sod, and landscaping. And Jessica Durham, of Magnolia Furnishings, oversaw the interior design. “We wouldn’t have moved if we couldn’t have Jessica on board!” says Juli, who had developed a friendship with Durham through their children’s lacrosse team, and from working with her on their previous home.

The renovation—which included the driveway expansion, the addition of a utilitarian wing (the hard-working mudroom, pantry, laundry and more), master suite, large screened-in porch, and lower patio, as well as finishing the basement and modifying the kitchen, foyer, and living areas—was completed in an astounding five months, as opposed to the more common 12 to 18 months.

With the scale and pace of the renovation, it easily could have been an extremely challenging experience, if not for a couple of key factors. One was the teamwork between the professionals. Baron, Morris and Durham had worked together before, and were able to collaborate for a seamless finish. The other secret to success was the fact that Baron is a hands-on builder who could get a lot of the work done without subcontracting. “He was actually in the Bobcat out there on the driveway,” says Juli. “We didn’t have to hire a lot of different companies.”

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BEFORE

BEFORE AFTER

After five whirlwind months, the result is stunning. The enlarged driveway the Murdens envisioned now boasts several family-friendly features, such as a basketball hoop by the new terraced retaining wall, and a custom “driveway closet” that Baron placed at the end of the drive, which comes in especially handy during the family’s multiple lacrosse tournaments. “They needed storage near the garage, so I added an outside closet for things like coolers and chairs for tailgating,” says Baron. “You back up your car, you throw it in, and you go.”

Baron’s focus on building for the way his clients live extends to the addition he built on this side of the house. Off the driveway, a “friends’ door,” as Baron calls it, leads to the workhorse section of the home. The entryway is framed by a mudroom with shoe lockers and storage space for kid gear on one side, and two closets for winter things and cleaning supplies on the other. Liberty Cabinets in Rocky Mount built the cabinetry for much of this area, which includes a spacious laundry room, a walk-in pantry with adjustable shelves and a wine fridge, and a built-in second fridge which is just around the corner from the kitchen. A bulletin board keeps track of the family’s activities, and the flooring is easy-to-clean tile from ProSource. As Juli says, “George is not only wonderful with the design, but every part of this house functions perfectly. Our dayto-day life is really easy.”

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In keeping with that theme, the master suite is situated near the laundry room, in the rear of the home. A bank of three windows provides plenty of light, along with a vista of trees and mountains. “We love to just sit in here and enjoy the views,” says Steve. Putting in a wall of windows was not only an aesthetic decision, but a practical one too, according to Baron. “We didn’t put any windows on this side,” he says, gesturing to the wall where the bed rests, “which gave us that big wall for the new screened-in porch.”

In the adjacent master bath, Baron used “obscure glass” in the exterior windows to bring light into the room without compromising privacy. He designed the space with a roomy shower and his-and-hers sinks, with plenty of storage by Liberty Cabinets. Durham chose a rectangular, cream-colored tile for the room, which leads to a walk-in closet outfitted by Closet Storage Organizers in 5 8

Salem. Again, Baron’s concern for natural light led him to craft a custom peninsula in the center of the room. The raised peninsula created sufficient storage to allow for some of the wall space to be spared for an exterior window.

The new addition leads into the open concept kitchen designed by Morris, who outfitted the space with white cabinetry, a hand-built range hood, soft gray subway tile backsplash, under-cabinet lighting, and a custom island. The island’s quartz countertop matches the other kitchen counters, but its base is painted a charcoal gray, and at 8 ½ feet long, it’s large enough to seat family and guests.

The bubble glass pendants above the island are by Visual Comfort, and Juli and Durham share a chuckle over its selection process. “Jessica would send me options in the first batch and I didn’t bite off on them. So she’d send me a few more and she’d stick that one back in, until I chose it!”

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What was formerly the old pantry is now Juli’s desk, and the whole rear of the home, which was once a long, empty rectangle, has been divided into zones. The previous bay window breakfast nook has been bumped out into a more spacious alcove that leads to the screened-in porch. An expandable farmhouse table and gray-washed bistro chairs sit beneath a chandelier with a quatrefoil design, by Arteriors Lighting, all sourced from Magnolia Furnishings. A farm scene canvas by Roanoke artist Diane Patton provides a splash of color, and the space between the nook and the family room is bridged by an inlaid wood chest

by Lillian August.

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Pops of color continue in the family room, where doors leading out to the old deck were replaced with a bank of windows. “It doesn’t seem like a big deal,” says Steve, “But it got rid of the need for walking space, which made the room bigger.” Morris installed cabinetry around the fireplace, which is flanked by a pair of dark turquoise leather benches, by CR Laine, that provide color as well as extra seating. A large abstract oil on canvas

by Sherri Barrett hangs above a Cisco Brothers sofa accented with fretworkpatterned Ryan Studio pillows. A creamy CR Laine ottoman sits atop two layered rugs—a cream loop-pile from ProSource, topped with muted oriental from Currey and Company. The effect is at once airy and welcoming, and Durham says she deliberately mixed fabrics, wood, iron, glass, and leather in the room, because she likes that look in her own decor, where she tries to avoid a “matchymatchy” effect.

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AFTER

BEFORE

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The front portion of the home offers additional, more-formal living space. The dining room is furnished with a mix of traditional pieces from the Murdens’ previous residence, and contemporary items from Magnolia, including Lillian August chairs and lights by Currey and Company. Classic portraits of the Murdens’ children, by Natalie White, hang not far from a large abstract from Katrina Bell. The walls are Benjamin Moore’s Edgecomb Gray—the predominant color used throughout the main floor of the home—and the area rug is a Jaipur oriental in “greige”, a blend of gray and beige. “She had a lot of the beigey tones,” says Durham, “So we’ve evolved more into greige.”

The dining room leads into the foyer, which was updated with a new 8-foot front door and stair banister. The original natural, hardwood floors are now a customfinished white oak in an espresso tone that complements the staircase treads and railing.

Opposite the dining room, the living room is also a blend of traditional and contemporary elements, decorated in grays and golds, and painted in Benjamin Moore’s Night Mist. A gold tray coffee table from Bungalow 5 rests atop another Jaipur rug, and works by local artists such as Greg Osterhaus and Diane Patton grace the walls.

There is plenty of indoor space for family and friends, and even more with the addition of the 28 foot-by-18-foot screened-in porch.

And for the Murdens, that’s a good thing.

“Last summer, I wish I’d had one of those clickers you use for counting people,” says Juli, “Because within a week’s time, I said to Steve, there are like 65 people who’ve had meals here!” She adds that every decision they made on the home was with family in mind, but also because they all love having friends over. Steve agrees, saying, “It’s become a house where we do a lot of entertaining, and the kids do a lot of entertaining! I’ll have 30 kids just here on the screened porch.”

Luckily, this porch is up to the task. Doors off the kitchen and breakfast nook lead to the expansive space, which features sweeping outdoor views thanks to Baron’s design. Huge screen sections—almost 9 feet long—are uninterrupted by posts because of a unique screen and tracks system that he uses. A cable railing system unobtrusively reinforces the screens and also provides a clean aesthetic on the stairs leading down to the patio. The structure was built with custom timber frames that Durham stained in a dark shade.

“It breaks my heart a little,” Baron says, laughing.

6 2

AFTER

BEFORE

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The porch has an outdoor dining set and a grilling station, which Steve says Juli and Baron talked him into. “We use it ALL the time,” Steve admits. It also has an outdoor seating group arranged before a vent-free gas fireplace and flat-screen TV. The outdoor furniture and hammered brass drum table are from Magnolia Furnishings, and a diamond pattern outdoor rug from Dash & Albert completes the tableau. The porch stairs lead down to the patio, by Roanoke Landscapes, which features another outdoor seating arrangement, gas firepit, and curved seating wall.

The patio, in turn, leads right into the finished basement, a stylish hangout for their children—a middle schooler, high schooler, and college student. Built-in bookshelves by Liberty Cabinets, leather sofas from Reid’s Fine Furnishings, and a fireplace topped with an Xbox-equipped TV provide a popular gathering space.

The other side of the room has a ping pong table, basketball net, and bean bags for lounging. “It just flows out into the patio space, which was the idea for kids,”

says Steve. An adjacent wet bar includes a microwave, fridge, and cupboards for easy access to drinks and snacks, with a banded iron table and swivel barstools from Magnolia Furnishings adding a fun industrial touch.

The Murdens’ home has the space, seating, and amenities to host a crowd in effortless style, and they do just that, holding lacrosse gatherings and events which both Baron and Durham regularly attend. Baron prides himself on doing work that turns clients into friends, and Durham notes that with Juli, a design consult might be 30 minutes, but their friendship talks will take hours. Steve and Juli stress that not only are they grateful for the fine job their friends have done on the house, but also for what it has meant for them. As Juli says, “One of the great things that George has given us, and Jessica too, is we’ve had a lot of great family time in the house, because everything is comfy. And those are the things that are invaluable. It’s not all the stuff. Life’s about relationships, and we just really enjoy it.”

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n LIVE CULINARY CORNER

Peach Season!

BY LU CY CO O K

M

odern shipping and growing practices have spoiled us as consumers—we’re able to get reasonably good fruits and vegetables most of the year. Unfortunately, fresh peaches are one summer favorite that have not become available year-round—but that’s what makes them even more desirable! Each year, my first bite of a perfect peach brings thoughts of how short the season will be, and sends me into a peach frenzy for the short time that they are at their peak.

When shopping for peaches, either at the farmers market or picking your own, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, know that peaches and nectarines are interchangeable in recipes. Clingstone peaches ripen first, but freestone peaches are easier to pit and are generally more succulent and sweet. Select peaches based on color and size; look for larger peaches that give slightly when squeezed and have a fully developed color—especially the yellow/gold tones (the rosy color varies among varieties, and isn’t a good indicator of ripeness). Speed up ripening by putting the fruit in a paper bag. They’re ready when they’re soft and have a strong peachy smell, usually about 1 to 2 days.

A cotton-y texture of the flesh—almost impossible to distinguish before you ripen the peaches—is a direct result of the fruit being transported in cold storage and a good reason to buy peaches at the farmers market.

And don’t forget: the best peach is eaten fully ripe, plain and drippy over the kitchen sink!

Peach season is short; although my ideas of eating seasonally may tell me that I should enjoy the peaches at peak season, I’m tempted to try to extend their season by preserving them through canning, drying or freezing some of the bounty, so that I can have a moment of summer even on a dark winter day. The peach chutney recipe I’ve included would preserve well, and there are also plenty of recipes online for preserving halved peaches in a light sugar syrup. (Try adding a little star anise, a cinnamon stick and a couple of cloves to spice them up!) I also puree fresh, ripe peaches in a blender or food processor. Store the puree in sandwich-sized bags in the freezer, being careful to squeeze out all the extra air. Peach puree can be used in cocktails, smoothies, or on biscuits or pancakes.

Here are a few recipes to help you make the most of peach season.

Happy cooking!

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Peach Ice Cream (makes 1 ½ quarts) This is worth going out and getting an ice cream maker if you don’t have one! During blackberry season, I use this same recipe, substituting four cups of blackberries for the peaches. We also sometimes freeze this in popsicle molds—a delicious afternoon treat!

4 large very ripe peaches, peeled, pitted and halved 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 2/3 cup sugar, divided 1 cup milk 4 egg yolks 1 cup heavy cream Place the peach halves in a bowl and gently crush with your hands. Add lemon juice and 1/3 cup sugar. Cover and chill.

Heat the milk almost to a boil. In a separate bowl, whisk the yolks and remaining sugar.

Add the hot milk to the eggs very slowly, whisking madly. Return the mixture to the pan, and continue stirring over low heat, until thickened. Pour into a clean container; cover and chill overnight. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold together whipped cream, peaches and chilled milk-and-egg mixture, and freeze according to your ice cream maker’s directions.

Serving idea: In a wine glass, layer two small scoops of ice cream with additional peach slices. Pour a cup of chilled Italian Muscat over each glass to make a grown-up version of a peach soda. r vhomemaga zine .com 65

2016 Season The Music of

ABBA June 3 - 4

Into the Woods Jr. July 27 - August 7

The Odd Couple Sept. 28 - Oct. 9

White Christmas Nov. 30 - Dec. 18

Holiday & Music Dec. 20 - Dec. 21

Fresh Peach Chutney (makes about 1½ cups) This versatile condiment is delicious with chicken or pork. Or for a meatless meal or appetizer, top a toasted slice of bread with fresh ricotta cheese and a spoonful of this relish!

1 large peach, peeled and diced ½ fresh jalapeno chili, carefully seeded and chopped 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh ginger root 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon honey

540.342.5740 www.millmountain.org 6 6

1 tablespoon lemon juice Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl; season to taste with salt and pepper.

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For the filling:

Peach and Berry Shortcakes (makes about 8)

3 large peaches, peeled and sliced

Move over strawberry shortcake: This combination of peaches and raspberries is classic, delicious and beautiful to look at! Each part can be made in advance, then assembled right before serving.

½ pint raspberries (or strawberries)

For shortcakes:

For the cream:

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon sugar 2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger

1 teaspoon lemon juice 2 tablespoons sugar

4 ounces mascarpone cheese 1 cup chilled whipping cream ¼ cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ½ cups heavy cream, divided

Prepare the filling: Gently mix peaches, berries, lemon juice

3 tablespoons butter, melted

and sugar; set aside for at least 30 minutes.

2 tablespoons raw sugar

Prepare the cream: In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone with

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar and ginger,

an electric mixer until fluffy. Add the cream and whip until soft peaks

whisking to combine. Add 1 ¼ cups cream and stir with a fork until

form. Mix in the sugar and vanilla.

the dough comes together, adding more cream as necessary.

To assemble: Split warm shortcakes. Mound a heaping spoonful

Turn the dough out on to a lightly floured counter and knead once

of peaches on bottom half, making sure to get some of the syrup

or twice. Roll the dough to a ¾-inch thickness and cut with a 2-inch

on the biscuit. Sprinkle with a few raspberries. Spoon a generous

cutter. Reroll dough scraps and cut again. Brush each biscuit with

¼ cup of the cream on the peaches, and cover with the biscuit top.

melted butter and sprinkle with raw sugar. Bake at 425 for 10-13

Sprinkle a few additional raspberries on the plate. Pass remaining

minutes until browned and baked through.

cream alongside.

DREAM. BUILD. RENOVATE.

Roanoke Lifestyle Has a New Star... BALLYHACK

thank you

“Come Home To Ballyhack”

To the Murdens and to all our clients throughout the past 20+ years.

We appreciate your confidence in Baron and your repeat business. It is always a pleasure to help our customers dream, build and renovate!

You may not realize it yet but this is where you have always wanted to live. Ballyhack integrates magnificent mountain vistas with its highly-acclaimed links-style golf course and unrivaled amenities, all within minutes of downtown Roanoke and everything the Roanoke Valley has to offer. Each Ballyhack home site captures some of the very best views afforded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and the splendor of an unmatched exclusive club lifestyle.

®

540.989.7646 • www.georgebaron.com

With a dwindling number of home sites still available, you need to act now to be part of what is rapidly becoming a legend in the world of high-end private club golf. This Lester George Signature Course was recently rated by Golf Digest as the 6th best course in Virginia. As a Ballyhack homeowner, you will be surrounded by the beauty of one of the very last pristine settings in the Blue Ridge, overlooking a golf course that speaks to the history recorded by the greatest courses ever. Call Jeannine today to tour the spectacular Estates at Ballyhack or Clubhouse Villa home sites.

Lot prices range from $44,950 to $169,950 JEANNINE HANSON and in size from 0.7 to 2.5 acres GRI, CRS, ASP REALTOR® 540-798-8640 • www.buyroanokehomes.com

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n DESIGN FLORAL DESIGN TUTORIAL

Bringing Your Flower Arrangements to

life

BY M A RY EL L EN L A F R EN I ER E

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O

One of the most common floral mistakes: You hold an entire bunch of flowers in your hand, you trim the stems, you drop them in a vase. Lo and behold, you’re left with a sad arrangement that lacks movement and vitality.

Here, learn how to harness the personality of your flowers and create a celebration-worthy arrangement with three different elements: “face flowers,” “filler flowers,” and greenery.

Choosing Your Flowers

Try to source flowers from local farms or farmers markets as much as possible to enjoy the bounty that Central Virginia offers from now through October. When you look at flowers in the market, think of them as people you’re inviting to a dinner party. For a party, you usually take personalities into account to ensure that guests connect and enjoy themselves, right?

“Face flowers” are large, showy blooms—peonies, sunflowers, dahlias and the like.

They become the focal point of an arrangement. They’re the party girls, the extroverts, the ones more likely to introduce themselves in a crowd.

Once you’ve chosen your party girl, grab a supporting player who is different in form and texture (these are known as “filler flowers” and add movement to the arrangement).

Think of the person at the party who’s not the loudest in the room, but is delightful for one-on-one conversation: feathery celosias, foxtail grasses, Gomphrena (globe amaranth), or Queen Anne’s lace.

Insider tip: Opt for flowers in one color palette for a more refined arrangement. Pair purple dahlias with lavender Gomphrena, red zinnias with a rust celosia, or a sunflower with a lime green grass.

You might find foliage at the market as well, but you can probably source that from your own home. Some common Virginia shrubs that provide interesting foliage and texture are azaleas, ninebark, privet, honeysuckle, forsythia, and abelia. Take a walk around your yard or patio and clip bits of foliage that speak to you—you’ll probably be surprised by their long vase life.

r vhomemaga zine .com 6 9

A Flower-Arranging Tutorial

1

Select a vase. Cubes can be tricky—so if you’re a beginner, choose a vase with a rounded bottom. The easiest vases to design in are hourglass shape, meaning they have a wide bottom that tapers in toward the neck before flaring out again at the top. You want the narrowest point of the vase to be similar in size to the diameter of your flower stems when held in your hand, (no ruler needed; you can estimate here).

Unless you’re using extra-tall blooms such as sunflowers, your vase should be no taller than 12 inches, but 6-8 inches is ideal for most locally grown flowers such as zinnias and dahlias. Stay away from floral foam for home arrangements; with well-placed greenery, you don’t need it. (Floral foam is not eco-friendly and those little foam particles could be inhaled—eeek!)

Now to arrange:

2

3

1. Create a greenery foundation: The goal here is to build a base to support your stems, so cut a few pieces the approximate height of your vessel, and place them resting right on the lip of the container. You may need to angle these stems slightly so that the weight of the greenery is supported by the lip. If the greenery allows, let some of the foliage cascade over the edge of the vase to add interest, to craft a more seamless look. Usually it takes 2 to 4 pieces of greenery to create a secure foundation, depending on the vase size and the type of green.

2. Now it’s time to place your flowers: Lay your flowers on the counter and strip each stem of greenery that would sit below water level in the vase, but make sure to leave some foliage around the top portion of the stem. Now, cut each stem individually, just before you place it in the vase.

Arrange 1 to 3 blooms low in the vessel, resting on top of your greenery to secure it in place, and to add depth. As you begin to place more “face flowers,” experiment with different heights, considering the final shape you want.

Rather than trying to align the flowers evenly, revisit the party idea and place them in groupings. (A few gals talking on the left side of the room, two people in center, one person in the kitchen by him or herself, know what I mean?) Allow natural spacing to occur. Save two of your “face flowers” to place at the very end.

3. Now, to add movement with your “filler flowers” (this is where things get good): Take a step back from your arrangement for a moment, and pay attention to the overall form. Which direction is the arrangement moving?

Where does it need to move? Think of house guests in fluid motion—turning toward each other, turning away.

Incorporate clustering again—two shooting off to the lefthand side, a few dripping down the bottom right. Let your imagination run wild. You’ll probably find arranging this way surprisingly difficult at first, to not space everything evenly, but after a few tries it will become second nature.

When you’re happy with the “movement” you’ve created, use any remaining filler to plug holes. Conceal the lip of the vase.

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4

4. Final step: add your last two “face flowers.” This is where dimension happens. By now, you have at least three layers composed of greenery, focal flowers and filler flowers. Lush it up by inserting the final flowers in front of the others, as if they’re reaching out to say helloooo. This extra layer makes the arrangement look simultaneously effortless and luxurious.

Now you’re ready. Make your flowers the life of the party!

Mary Ellen LaFreniere got her start on Irvington Spring Farm, her parents’ 3-acre cut-flower farm in Lynchburg. She has since transplanted to Baltimore where she creates “a marriage of grit and grace” through her urban micro-farm and floral design company. You can find her on instagram @steelctuflowerco or on the web at www.steelcutflowerco.com.

Here, HOME staff put LaFreniere’s easyto-follow tutorial into action. It really gave us a new perspective on arranging flowers. How did we do?

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georgesflowers.com | 540.981.0900 | r vhomemaga zine .com 71

Creating an Outdoor Room Function, Form and Fun

BY R O RY R H O D ES

S

ummertime is made for outdoor living. Whether it’s

a cup of coffee in the morning sun, an afternoon in the shade with lemonade and a good book,

or dinner under the stars serenaded by crickets

and cicadas, these long summer days and languid twilights entice us to spend time relaxing with Mother Nature.

Creating an inviting “outdoor room” allows you to enjoy al fresco time in comfort. Whether it’s right outside of your sliding doors or a destination down the garden path, an outdoor room is more than just a patio with chairs; it’s an exterior space that feels like an extension of your home. An outdoor room can be big or small, grand or simple, as long as it’s a place that seems both intentional and inviting.

Picking the Perfect Spot

Screened porches, verandas and covered patios, pergolas and gazebos are all natural spots for an outdoor room. They provide shade and shelter, as well as define the parameters of the outdoor room. If you have one of these features on your property, chances are it’s already at least basically outfitted for outdoor time.

You can also create an outdoor room on an open terrace or patio by framing the space yourself. If shade is desired, you can purchase a metal garden gazebo or shade sail for the season, or even build a basic pergola. For long-term goals, wooden pergolas look wonderful when softened by a climbing vine such as clematis, wisteria or climbing rose. If you prefer not to use a manmade structure, small trees planted near the edge of a terrace can also be your “roof.” Crepe myrtles offer summer flowers and an arching shape that works well for an open-air room, while Eastern redbuds are relatively fast growers with heart-shaped foliage. A simple shade solution for smaller spaces is a market umbrella, which these days are readily available in an array of colors and options. Along with the traditional style, market umbrellas can be square or rectangular, tiltable, feature built-in lighting, and come with different stands for various furniture arrangements. Cantilevered or offset umbrellas are a good option for a seating group, since the base can be placed behind the furniture instead of in the middle of the action. r vhomemaga zine .com 73

Defining the Space

Part of what gives an outdoor space the feeling of a “room” is the illusion of having at least one wall or boundary. If your outdoor room is against your house, you’re probably all set. But if you’re creating a space that is free-standing, there are several options. Large potted plants are a great way to define the borders of your space. Use them at the corners, or several in a row for a living wall. If you have, or can install, a low retaining wall, it will both define the space and provide extra seating. An outdoor rug will make the space feel like a designated gathering area, and anchor your outdoor furniture. You might also be able to play around with your furniture placement to create a sense of boundaries.

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

Privacy

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

There are modern updates to that old privacy standby, lattice, that can work for both structures and open spaces. “Square” lattice, as opposed to the traditional diamond style, is a fresh, tidy look that offers privacy and diffuses light without overly darkening the space. Try framing out individual panels of lattice, which can then be hung from a beam or built on a stand. Using a free-standing screen offers the additional bonus of moving it when and where it’s needed. A privacy screen made of horizontal boards looks modern and clean, and using reclaimed lumber will give it rustic charm. Shutters can also be mounted into a frame—paint them a fun color for extra interest. Outdoor roll-up woven blinds and curtains are easy and attractive options for spaces that have a beam or pole for hanging. A fun variation you can do yourself is to use industrial pipe for rods, and canvas drop cloths for curtains. Attach the curtains to the rods with large curtain ring clips, and use jute rope for tiebacks. It’s an affordable option that adds effortless style!

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“Square” lattice, as opposed to the traditional diamond style, is a fresh, tidy look that offers privacy and diffuses light without overly darkening the space.

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Function, Furnishings and Fabrics

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

With the outdoor room’s size and function in mind, you can have fun with all of the outdoor fabrics that are available.

Indeed, an outdoor rug will help define the space, but can also provide an extra dose of color and style. There are a multitude of colors and patterns that are available both in stores and online, so no longer are you limited to monochromatic beige. Play with stripes, chevrons, trellis, kilim and floral patterns if you feel inclined. Outdoor throw pillows can pick up accent shades from a colorful rug, or continue an indoor room’s color palette, blending the inside with the outside. It can also be fun to use outdoor fabrics to provide a contrasting punch to your adjacent indoor theme. Gray-toned interiors get a lively boost from yellow- or red-toned outdoor touches; almost any shade of blue looks great when paired with a cheerful pop of coral or orange.

An outdoor room is a great place to go bold or introduce a fun color. Let your creativity flow!

Why Advertise with HOME? I look forward to advertising in Roanoke Valley HOME because it brings me the customer base I need to make sales. When I went to full page advertising, the difference was quite remarkable, and I do mean remarkable. I think I have advertised in every magazine out there, but hands down, Roanoke Valley HOME brings me the results that makes me feel good about full page advertising.

-Dorsey Taylor, Owner, LinDor Arts

r vhomemaga zine .com 75

level lighting that has some sort of shade, or a frosted or colored housing, is always a good choice. Using a low-intensity option, such as a small votive or batteryoperated candle, is easy and inexpensive.

Don’t forget that solar lights are hard to beat for convenience, and come in more options than ever before. You can use solar spotlights at the corners of your outdoor room or pointed up at nearby foliage, which will provide pleasing ambient illumination as well as highlight the features of your space.

Focal Points and Fun Extras

Light up the Night

While shade is important on sultry summer days, don’t forget the need for a bit of lighting on those starry nights.

There are plenty of glamorous outdoor chandeliers and high-tech garden lighting options available if you’re interested, but you don’t have to break the bank here.

Budget-friendly options like twinkle and strand lights provide a romantic, bohemian feel. Simple tiki torches from the garden center can also add a bit of brightness to the night (and possibly repel mosquitos, to boot). Outdoor chandeliers don’t have to be hard-wired; some of the most enchanting pieces feature candles arranged in everything from antique wrought iron to mason jars and reclaimed wood.

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A funky old chandelier from an antique or thrift store can be easily repurposed for a unique feature. For exotic, Old World glamour, hang a cluster of Moroccan lanterns at varying heights from a beam or tree branch. They come in an array of shapes and colors, and those with pierced metal housings will cast gentle, intricate patterns on nearby surroundings. There are also tabletop versions of such lanterns, as well as more traditional options like hurricane lanterns framed in metal, rattan, or even rope, which convey a clean, modern feel.

Remember that, while light is useful, there can also be too much of a good thing. You want a soft glow rather than a deer-in-the-headlights ambiance, so eye-

So you’ve got all the essentials for an outdoor room—what can you do to take it to the next level? For many outdoor spaces, a fire feature is the natural focal point. A wood-burning fire pit, whether built-in or simply a large metal bowl, is affordable and fun.

Installing a gas fire pit costs more, but offers smoke-free fire at the flick of a switch. Fire pit tables are popular and chic, and do double duty for holding food and drinks. Outdoor fireplaces are a welcoming accent to patios, and can also be wood-burning or gas. Some even have built-in pizza ovens or TVs—definitely a “wow” factor! A ceiling fan is a nice extra if your arrangement allows for it, both for the cooling breezes and for keeping flying bugs at bay. A water feature, such as a small pond or fountain, is relaxing and also good for providing white noise where needed.

Finally, don’t forget about purely decorative touches. Fun or personalized signs, wall planters, interesting architectural pieces of wrought iron from an antique or salvage shop, statues, or even a unique piece of metal garden art can all add a bit of whimsy to an otherwise conventional space. You never know—that three-foot-tall metal rooster you’ve driven past at your local garden store could be the talk of your next barbecue!

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

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n IMPROVE ROOF MAINTENANCE

ROOF CARE Protect the roof that protects you

BY J ER RY H A L E

Every homeowner dreads discovering that the roof overhead needs major repair or replacement. Roof work is a significant expense, and one for which only the most foresighted earmark savings. So it behooves us all to think about how to extend the serviceable life of the roof that’s now keeping us dry.

Roofing experts tell us there are steps we can take that will keep our roofs looking and performing better, longer. Here, we share tips—some obvious, some just shy of “classified information.”

r vhomemaga zine .com 77

■ Keep

foot traffic on the roof to a minimum. Shingles depend on the granules molded into their surface during manufacturing. Foot traffic, especially on a sloped roof, dislodges some of that protective surface. Make sure there’s no unessential traffic on your roof, and if a satellite dish technician or chimney or gutter guy must go up there, ask them to wear minimally destructive footwear.

■ Watch

for collecting leaves and other tree debris in the “valleys” of your roof and have a professional remove them if necessary. Leaf buildup can lead to roof leaks, and decomposing material makes for ugly tannin stains. If you have a maintenance contract with your roofer, removal of this debris should be included.

■ Gutter

cleaning is important. Clogged gutters cause water to back up, possibly seeping under shingles and causing leaks that damage walls. Have gutters checked and cleaned twice a year, or as necessary, to keep runoff flowing freely. Consider screening to keep out leaves, “pinwheels,” and other tree materials.

■ Do

not allow your shingle roof to be “power washed.”

High-pressure washing strips the roof of material that is key to its longevity. Fungus and mold can be safely removed by what is termed “soft washing,” a service some roofers offer.

■ Roof

leaks most often come from failed or improperly installed flashing around dormers, chimneys, skylights, plumbing vents and satellite dishes. If water is coming in, have a qualified expert check these areas and repair or replace flashing as needed.

■ What’s

in attics can be a source of roof problems.

Improper ventilation, condensation, and animal or bug infestations can lead to issues with roof performance. An occasional peek into the attic with flashlight in hand can disclose developing problems before the roof itself is affected.

Look especially for algae stains, mold, soaked insulation, black rings or rust around nails (a sure sign of condensation in attic spaces), and clogged air exchange vents.

■ Have

shingles checked after a hailstorm. Large, windblown hailstones can dent shingles, break edges and wear down their surface, severely reducing their useful life. If a hailstorm has hit yours, have them checked shortly after. Your homeowners insurance should cover any repairs, including roof replacement if damage is severe.

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Invest in developing a maintenance plan for your roof—periodic inspections (generally in the fall and spring), routine maintenance, and minor repairs as needed to keep small problems from becoming major and costly roof issues later on.

Special Advice For Metal Roofs

With metal roofs, foot traffic won’t cause the kind of damage it does to shingle roofs, but it can produce scratches, dents and other harmful alterations. Here again, hiring trained experts for inspections and repairs is by far the safest approach. Besides, metal roofs can be slippery, and whenever homeowners take to a ladder to access anything, they are at risk of finishing their day in the hospital.

That said, here are some metal roof checkpoints: holes and open seams as soon as possible. As your metal roof expands and shrinks with weather extremes, screws become loose, and seams may separate. If this issue is not quickly addressed, your roof’s underlying structure could be damaged by condensation and water buildup around stacks.

In order to prevent damage due to seam leaks, remember to inspect your home’s roof at least twice a year and after severe storms. Watch for signs of loose hardware and obvious seam separation.

■ Inspect

and replace sealants at perimeters and wherever something protrudes through the roof surface. Most sealants last about 20 years, though some butyl sealants retain their bond and elasticity far longer. Your roof inspector can tell which you have.

■ If

screws are used for repairs, make sure they are of the same metal as the roof itself. Two dissimilar metals in close proximity set up the potential for galvanic corrosion, which eats away at one or both metals.

■ Repair

■ Keep

paint touched up so that corrosion won’t develop. An exposed steel surface will quickly rust and become unsightly.

There are non-corrosion treatments that will also fight this form of roof decay.

■ Fasteners

should be replaced when they reach the end of their expected service lives—usually 20 to 30 years.

Cedar Shake Roofs

Popular with many homeowners due to their distinctive appearance, roofs of cedar and redwood shakes can add a highend, luxury look to homes of many designs. Cedar roofs do require regular maintenance to prevent moss, mold and mildew growth. However, there are cedar treatment preservatives that can be added during the crafting process to prevent fungal growth and preserve the wood. Cedar roofing care is a specialty, so inspections and repairs need to be handled by contractors with the proper training and experience.

As with most home systems, spending time and resources on some preventative maintenance is usually well spent.

Invest in developing a maintenance plan for your roof— periodic inspections (generally in the fall and spring), routine maintenance, and minor repairs as needed to keep small problems from becoming major and costly roof issues later on.

r vhomemaga zine .com 79

n LIVE ICED TEA

SIT AND SIP A tribute to iced tea

BY A N D I E G I B S O N

In the South, iced tea is as sacred a summertime tradition as a game of kick the can at dusk. The first hint of warm weather signals it’s time to brew up a big batch, fill a tall glass full of ice and sip to your heart’s content—preferably on a shady porch in the company of a good friend.

In addition to its thirst-quenching properties, there are a number of reasons iced tea is a staple of summer. It’s inexpensive and easy to make, offers a variety of health benefits and can be customized in endless ways to suit your personal taste.

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Beyond Sweet Tea

True Southerners may insist that sweetened heavily with sugar is the only way to drink iced tea, but equal parts sweet and unsweet can be just as refreshing—and with half the calories.

Or, if you’re a tea purist, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip the sweetener all together (just don’t mention it to your Southern friends).

A variation of iced tea that’s an especially big hit with kids is the Arnold Palmer, a concoction popularized by the legendary professional golfer. Often mistakenly made with equal parts tea and lemonade, the proper way to prepare the drink, according to Palmer himself, is with three parts iced tea and one part lemonade poured over ice and served with a wedge of lemon.

Infusing tea with the flavors of fruit, flowers and even vegetables also has become prevalent and can be a great way to jazz up an outdoor party. Peach, raspberry, strawberry, blackberry, lemon, lime, mango and cranberry are all great choices. A quick search online turns up tons of recipes for these fresh mixtures, as well as more unusual variations such as rhubarb, grapefruit and hibiscus.

Infusing with spices and herbs such as mint, ginger, basil, lavender and cinnamon can also provide refreshing results.

For a more personalized creation, combine two of your favorite flavors—raspberry/lemon, blackberry/mint, strawberry/basil or blueberry/ginger, for example. If you’re a fan of cucumbers, try a mixture of cucumber and mint iced tea.

Not Just Good, Good for You

Tea contains powerful antioxidants, which experts say may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. In fact, according to Dr. John Weisburger, a senior researcher at the Institute for Cancer Prevention, tea has 8 to 10 times the number of antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables. The power of those antioxidants is increased when you add citrus (such as lemon or lime), which also contributes beneficial vitamin C.

Adding citrus, mint or other flavors also enhances flavor, which can reduce the urge to add sugar or other sweeteners to your tea. Brewed at home, most unsweetened tea has no calories so choosing a tall glass in lieu of soda or a sports drink will cut sugar intake and unnecessary calories from your diet.

How to Make Iced Tea

There are two ways to create refreshing iced tea—traditional boiling and cold brewing. (Skip “sun tea” as it promotes the growth of harmful bacteria).

To make a half gallon of tea on the stove, bring two quarts of water to a boil. Remove from heat and steep eight regular-size tea bags (with the tags hanging over the edge of the pan) for five minutes. Discard bags and add sugar to taste, if desired. Allow to cool.

Just as effective is making tea in the fridge. It takes some advanced planning and produces a slightly milder flavor some tea drinkers prefer. To make a half gallon, add eight tea bags to two quarts of water and place in the refrigerator for at least six hours. Discard the bags and sweeten, if desired.

Adding an Extra Kick

If you’re looking for iced tea with a little extra jolt (and not just from caffeine), try a boozy iced tea recipe. Such adult-only versions of the summertime favorite can add a festive touch to your next pool party or backyard barbecue.

Try tea creations mixed with bourbon and ginger (or mint), lemon or strawberry with a shot of vodka, or the Leland Palmer—jasmine tea combined with honey, gin, limoncello, grapefruit juice and club soda. You can find a wide range of porch-worthy recipes in a snap by searching online.

Did you know that June is National Iced Tea Month? Time to trade in your coffee mug for a tall, refreshing glass of your favorite iced concoction.

r vhomemaga zine .com 81

n INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

HOME R O A N O K E

DESIGN

■

IMPROVE

■

George’s Flowers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Pat Joiner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Grand Home Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Perry Pools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Halifax Fine Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Present Thyme. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

HomeTown Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Richfield Retirement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Interiors by Kris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Ronnie Mitchell and Son Landscaping . . . . . 84

Jacksonville Center for the Arts. . . . . . . . . . . 26

Southern Lamp and Shade Showroom . . . . . 24

Jeannine Hanson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Spectrum Stone Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Kevin Hurley Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Sunnyside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

LinDor Arts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

The Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Magnolia Decor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

The Glebe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Member One Federal Credit Union. . . . . . . . 14

Tink’s Place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Mill Mountain Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Trez R Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

MKB Realtors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Trocadero. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

N-Hance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Vinton Appliance Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

National Pools of Roanoke, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Virginia Commonwealth Games. . . . . . . . . . 48

New to Me Consignment Boutique. . . . . . . . 24

Whitt Carpet One. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

VA L L E Y

GARDEN

■

LIVE

Abingdon Virginia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Accents on Windows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Astonish Antique Restoration. . . . . . . . . . . . 32

B P Roy Construction LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Baron Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Bench Mark Builders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Better Sofas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Bob Riddick Roofing, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Boxley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Brandon Oaks (Virginia Lutheran Homes, Inc.).15

Bush-Flora Shoes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Cabinetry with TLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Capps Home Building Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Opera Roanoke. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 CMC Supply, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Decorating Den Interiors of Roanoke . . . . . . 75

F&S Four Seasons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Ferguson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21

Gene’s Trading Post. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 82

Bob Riddick Roofing Quality. Value. Experience.

• Roof Repair • Roof Replacement • 40 Pt. Inspection • Extended Warranties • New Installation • Roof & Exterior Cleaning

330 Lakewood Forest Rd. Moneta, VA 24121

RiddickRoofing.com

Call (540) 721-1329 for a FREE estimate or E-mail Sales@RiddickRoofing.com R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6