Roanoke Valley Spring 2017 | Real Estate Issue

HOME R OA N O K E VA L L E Y

design ✦ improve ✦ garden ✦ live

the

REAL ESTATE

issue

&

REFRESH

renew SPRING'S FARE

seasonal greens, beneficial blooms

DECOR DELIGHTS

clever cake stands, furniture refresh

Historic Garden Day SPRING 2017 SPRING 2017

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the

REAL ESTATE

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CONTENTS Roanoke Valley HOME Spring 2017

issue

14 14

REAL ESTATE OUTLOOK FOR 2017 Local real estate professionals weigh in

BY NOELLE MILAM

22

FIRST IMPRESSIONS Tips on staging your home inside and out for the best sale

BY CHRISTY RIPPEL

36

A PERFECT PALETTE Area real estate agents share their favorite neutral paint colors

38

COMPILED BY RORY RHODES

54

REFINANCING YOUR HOME Understanding options to maximize your financial position

BY ALEXANDRA REYNOLDS

showcase home

38

ART AND SOUL At home with local artist Vera Silcox LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HOME Magazine

BY RORY RHODES

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S PR I NG 2017

DESIGN

19

53 COOL CAKE STANDS

Ideas for using this dessert darling in every room

BY RORY RHODES

61 TO REUPHOLSTER—OR NOT?

What to know about recovering your favorite furniture

61

BY MEGAN JANSEN

IMPROVE

33 RETHINK YOUR SINK

What to consider when buying a new kitchen sink

BY ASHLEY BLAIR SMITH

50 INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Proper HVAC system care is the key to comfort

BY JERRY HALE

GARDEN

19 BENEFICIAL BUGS

Make your garden a haven for helpful insects

33

BY SARA WARRENDER

58 PLANT IT, EAT IT

How to grow and enjoy spring lettuce

BY KATHERINE FULGHUM KNOPF

63 HISTORIC GARDEN DAY

A sneak peek at Roanoke’s annual home and garden tour

LIVE

26 SEASONAL FARE

Host a casual dinner with spring’s best flavors

BY MARISSA HERMANSON

48 GETTING TO KNOW YOU

How to be a good neighbor

BY SLOANE LUCAS

26 8

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R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S p r i n g 2 0 1 7

EDITOR’S note My first spring in Virginia, almost 20 years ago, is something I vividly remember. As a Southern California native, I’d always enjoyed an earlier, subtler spring that began in February. After my first eastern winter, I was desperate for spring. When it arrived in full force that April, I was overwhelmed by the explosion of color and energy. The signs of life all around urged me to get busy on my own projects, and each year I feel that same pull.

Spring is well known as the busiest time for buying and selling homes, and I can’t help but think that, in addition to the nice weather and school calendar, something more elemental is also at work. We all want to get things in order for the season ahead, and this edition of HOME has plenty of inspiration. Our second annual “Real Estate Issue” has valuable tips and topics, whether you’re buying, selling, or simply living in a home.

Check out our “Real Estate Outlook for 2017” feature to hear input from local experts, and find out what you need to know about refinancing your mortgage.

Our “First Impressions” piece is packed with helpful information that will make sure your home looks its best— and if something needs freshening up, we’ve got you covered with reupholstery know-how, and professional picks for the latest neutral paint shades.

If, like me, you’re eager to get outside, we'll show you how to plant a spring lettuce patch, and ways to attract beneficial insects to the garden, to help keep plants healthy. Once everything’s spruced up, host a garden party with fresh, springtime recipes—

or if you prefer to admire someone else’s handiwork, take a Garden Day tour and get inspired! And finally, if you’re a new face in town or notice somebody new on the block, our “Getting to Know You” guide has suggestions for reaching out to your new neighbors.

This special issue of HOME has everything but the kitchen sink—oh wait, we’ve got information about that too. Thanks for joining us! Until next time …

— Rory Rhodes, Managing Editor rory@westwillowpublishing.com

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PUBLISHER’S note

I want to hear from you!

HOME ROANOKE VALLEY

All of us at HOME magazine work hard to keep our content fresh and current so we can provide you, our readers, with useful, practical and affordable ideas to enhance your homes and lifestyles. We showcase local style meant to inspire you and then connect you with the businesses and services than can fulfill your needs right here in the Roanoke Valley. If you’re reading this latest edition then you’re probably one of our loyal, enthusiastic readers and have many inspirational ideas yourself—we want to hear about them!

We’d love to hear your ideas for stories or interesting local homes to feature and we welcome your comments on articles we’ve published.

What do you think about our fresh, new look? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Since celebrating ten years of publication, we thought a new look was in order!

Send me a note—I’d love to hear from you! Now, read on!

I hope the ideas, tips and businesses presented on these pages of HOME magazine will inspire you to do something new and fresh this spring.

—Julie Pierce, Publisher julie@westwillowpublishing.com

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 2 PUBLISHER Julie Pierce EDITOR IN CHIEF Meridith Ingram MANAGING EDITOR Rory Rhodes ART DIRECTOR Edwana Coleman GRAPHIC ARTIST Khristina Helmich CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jerry Hale Marissa Hermanson Megan Jansen Katherine Fulghum Knopf Noelle Milam Alexandra Reynolds Rory Rhodes Christy Rippel Ashley Blair Smith Sara Warrender PHOTOGRAPHER Kevin Hurley OPERATIONS MANAGER Colleen Miller

magnolia

ADVERTISING SALES Jennifer Bass Janet Lampman Julie Pierce Anne Marie Poore SUBSCRIPTIONS

Roanoke Valley HOME is published five times annually

by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For an annual subscription, please send $20 and 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.

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

HOME DECOR LIGHTING PILLOWS JEWELRY ART DESIGN SERVICES IN ROANOKE 4710 E. STARKEY ROAD 540.204.4774 MON - SAT 10 TO 6 1 2

IN ABINGDON 180 E. MAIN STREET 276.206.8134 TUES - SAT 11 TO 5

WEST WILLOW PUBLISHING GROUP, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2017 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 p r i n g 2 0 1 7

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the

REAL ESTATE

issue

REAL ESTATE OUTLOOK

for 2017

a

BY NOELLE MIL AM

ccording to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 2016 was a great year for the area’s real estate markets. Roanoke Valley real estate agents agree that business was brisk, prices were trending upwards, and the Federal Reserve kept interest rates extremely low.

Unsurprisingly, as late as October 2016, the National Association of Realtors, the Mortgage Bankers Association, and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were predicting that home sales nationwide were really going to heat up in 2017.

But later in the fourth quarter of 2016, NAR projections had cooled considerably. With national election results that were surprising to many sectors, speculation on what the new administration would mean for real estate in the coming years began. The first concern for many in the business was the Fed’s anticipated hike in mortgage lending rates, the first of which occurred in December 2016, making money for housing slightly more expensive to obtain. The second concern was inventory of what they called affordable housing. NAR conducted a survey in the fourth quarter of 2016, and found that there was a significant decrease in consumer confidence as we enter the 2017 market. But here’s the thing: Consumers’ confidence was not that they couldn’t find a house, but that the house in question would be affordable.

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ACCORDING TO ROANOKE VALLEY REAL ESTATE AGENTS, THE MARKET WILL DISPLAY CHARACTERISTICS OF BOTH SELLERS AND BUYERS MARKETS DEPENDING ON A HOME’S LOCATION AND AFFORDABILITY. r vhomemaga zine .com 15

Affordability appears to be the new buzzword for real estate in 2017. The definition of affordable encompasses more than just the pricing of the home, but includes possible resale value, condition of the home, and costs associated with owning the home (think homeowners association dues, commuting time, or costs of utilities).

Despite a certain sense of healthy caution however, NAR is still projecting a sunny outlook for real estate in 2017 for several reasons: n the interest rates, though rising, are going up at a very moderate pace; n the risk of a housing “crash” is very low for the area; n Millenials are now entering their prime home-buying years; n the continued upward trend of the American economy (the longest positive cycle in history).

In the Roanoke Valley, where markets have been on a steady but gradual climb out of the “Great Recession” since about 2010, real estate agents are upbeat about the outlook for the coming year.

“Roanoke is really a pretty stable market,” says Jeannine Hanson of Long and Foster Realtors. “I think housing values will hold steady.” Holding steady on 2016 numbers of closed sales is a good thing. Even though banks are being cautious about lending money, and interest rates are on the rise, in Roanoke, houses are selling and so is land. And they are projected to keep on selling at a healthy pace in 2017.

In addition to a robust inventory, area real estate agents see the possibility of moderate increases in housing prices in the coming year, and even the current and projected interest rate hikes are unlikely to deter many buyers. As Kathy Chandler of MKB Realtors and the incoming president of Roanoke Valley Association of Realtors explains, “Yes, interest rates are going up, but not more than 5 percent—and that is still extremely low. You pay more interest on your car!” She encourages potential buyers to consider the math—an interest rate hike of a few tenths of a percentage point may only change a monthly mortgage payment by a few dollars. Interest rates themselves have been at historic lows with no increases since 2006, so we are overdue for some gentle correction.

Pat Joiner, also an agent with MKB Realtors, forecasts a 2017 with generally moderate growth. “I believe that most people feel really confident about our real estate market in Roanoke,” she says. “People continue to see owning a home as a safe, solid and valuable investment.” Chandler reports that there is about six months of inventory currently on the market. The delicate balance between supply and demand here in Roanoke is a far cry from the pre-recession years of the “housing bubble,” but the flip side is that it is a safer time to buy. “I don’t really see a large influx of houses coming in, and there is a healthy amount of pent-up demand,” Chandler says. Agents and clients are less intoxicated by unrealistic expectations, and are more measured and careful about their research and decision process. “2016 was our best year since 2006,” Chandler says. “Roanoke Valley Realtors have sold over a billion dollars in volume since then, and it is all good, steady, sustainable growth.”

Sellers Market? Buyers Market?

According to Roanoke Valley real estate agents, the market will display characteristics of both sellers and buyers markets, depending on a home’s location and affordability. According to 16

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Joiner, locations such as South Roanoke (in the city) and Southwestern Roanoke County are perennial favorites. Local agents say the segment of houses or condos priced between $200,000 and $350,000 are in the affordability “sweet spot”; inventory in that price range sells like proverbial hotcakes. Homeowners or builders who will be looking to sell a house in that range in 2017 should have no problem, provided it is in good shape and priced correctly.

What can sellers do to increase their chances for success in 2017? Educate yourself about the competition, price the home appropriately, and make sure that it shows well to potential buyers.

The best way to educate yourself is to speak with someone who has been in real estate in the area. A licensed real estate agent will be able to give you individualized feedback on your home: its condition, location and current market value. In today’s market, the condition of your home is very important to its selling potential. Real estate agents may recommend updating paint colors, decluttering congested areas and refinishing floors. “We live in our homes

and enjoy them as they are,” says Hanson, “but when you are getting a house ready to sell, you are competing with new homes.”

She recommends spending the time and money up front to freshen up your home for sale.

Chandler agrees, stressing that you need to have your home ready to show from the first day on the market. “You want a home that is staged to show to its best potential every time,” Chandler advises. “Today’s buyers are savvy.

They’ve done their research. They know where they want to be and what they want to pay. In my experience, buyers will say, ‘We don’t mind doing a little work,’ but they’ll go for bright and shiny every time.”

For sellers who want to appeal to this more discerning buyer, the best advice is to have your home live up to those expectations as best it can.

For people looking to purchase a home or land in 2017, the advice is clear: Don’t sit on the fence! The days of competitive buyers markets when homes could be purchased for a fraction of their pre-2008 value are in the past. It appears unlikely that you will see plunging prices in 2017, so if you wait to make an offer because

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Roanoke Lifestyle Has a New Star... BALLYHACK

you hope the sellers will drop the price, you are likely to miss out. Especially as inventory continues to deplete, smart buyers need to be ready to move when the right house comes along.

Educate yourself about the type of property you are interested in, talk with a bank about what you can afford, and enlist the services of a real estate professional to assist you in your search to prevent any unforeseen issues or disappointments. Real estate can be a volatile and challenging market to stay on top of, which is why the best real estate professionals will always recommend that you take time to interview several agents before selecting one who understands your situation and has the experience and expertise to be your best guide.

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The real estate forecast for the Roanoke Valley is bright, with predictions of solid, steady, moderate growth across the market for 2017. The area continues to grow, with exponential growth in the bio-tech, medical research, and medical industries here, as well as the recent arrival of Deschutes Brewery. Roanoke has always been a town that people who were raised here want to return to, but now it seems the word is out, and people from all over the country are now settling in the Roanoke Valley.

Many are attracted by the excellent climate, beauty of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, and the myriad of outdoorsy offerings such as the Greenway. Others tout the many cultural opportunities, the increasing number of exceptional restaurants and breweries, and the ongoing revitalization of the charming downtown. Whatever it is that draws people, it appears that Roanoke will only continue to grow, and growth is good news for real estate. With a forecast like this—whether you are selling or buying, or just taking an active interest in the local market outlook—the year ahead for the Roanoke Valley looks sunny indeed. ✦ R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S p r i n g 2 0 1 7

GARDEN protecting your plot

BENEFICIAL BUGS

insects and host plants work together to protect garden

F

B Y S A R A WA R R E N D E R

or many gardeners the task of keeping vulnerable plants safe from the hungry grips of pests can be a frustrating task. All too often a season of carefully tended crops yields only a meager basketful of vegetables spotted with festering holes. But, gardeners can fight back and send in an army of their very own, with less need for protection from artificial pesticides.

The members of a gardener’s insect army include “beneficials,” which are essentially the predatory good guys. Such beneficials include lacewings, lady beetles and hoverflies (syrphid flies). These beneficials, along with pollinators like bees, help sustain a balanced garden. But, beneficials must be welcomed into a garden and persuaded to stay with the presence of nectar, pollen, water and shelter from the wind throughout the seasons.

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Insects Welcome

Your destination for . . .

27 holes of golf, tennis at one of the five indoor or eight outdoor tennis courts, heated Olympic sized pool, an updated Clubhouse offering accommodations for business meetings, weddings, or dining. Enjoy one of the Valley’s most beautiful views from our Terrace Grille patio while dining al fresco on our terrace. Our Juniors enjoy Pool and Sports camps during the summer and Golf and Tennis Academies year round.

To inquire about membership at Roanoke Country Club, please contact Whitney Shupe at (540) 345-1508 or membership@roanokecountryclub.org

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GOLF MEMBERSHIP

SPORTS MEMBERSHIP

POOL MEMBERSHIP

Entitles you to use of all club facilities and privileges.. Monthly dues includes unlimited use of driving range.

Entitles you to use of Clubhouse, Tennis and Swimming facilities. Golf course usage limited to four (4) times per year, no more than one time per month.

Includes pool, free junior golf and tennis clinics, and kids camp available.

Lacewings may be brown or green, usually one-half to threefourths-of-an-inch long, with transparent wings. They feed on garden threats like aphids, mealybugs, scale, thrips, mites, and various larvae and eggs. Lady beetles are one-fourth-inch long yellow-orange or red insects with black spots which feed on aphids, scale, thrips, whiteflies, spider mites, mealybugs, and other soft-bodied bugs. Hoverflies resemble bees which dart like hummingbirds and feed on aphids, mealybugs, and other small insects.

Providing a nurturing environment for these good guys does not need to be a daunting task.

To begin farmscaping—the deliberate use of plants and landscaping techniques to attract and conserve beneficials—it is recommended to devote five destination to ten percent Your for of . . a. garden or farm of golf, tennis atChoose one of thean fivearea indoornear or eight tennis courts, space27toholes these plants. oroutdoor bordering your heated Olympic sized pool, an updated Clubhouse offering accommodations for garden where these plants can thrive and provide a relatively business meetings, weddings, or dining. Enjoy one of the Valley’s most beautiful undisturbed of retreat for while beneficials.

Plants secrete views from area our Terrace Grille patio dining al fresco on our terrace. volatile Our Juniors enjoy Pool and Sports camps during summer Golf and Tennis chemicals when pests are feeding onthethem toand naturally call Academies year round. beneficials to the scene of the leafy crime. If your army is poised To inquire about membership at Roanoke Country Club, please contact Whitney Shupe at for action nearby, they are orwilling first responders.

(540) 345-1508 membership@roanokecountryclub.org To choose your plants wisely remember a few key aspects of GOLF SPORTS POOL beneficial gardening.

First, insects typically favor tiny clusters MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP of flowers with exposed nectaries such as Queen Anne’s lace.

Entitles you to use of all Entitles you to use of Includes pool, free junior Secondly, flowers colors and will likely bring Clubhouse, Tennisforms and club facilities of anddiverse golf and tennis clinics, privileges.. dues Swimming facilities.

Golf Third, a larger varietyMonthly of pollinators to your garden. (dill, and kids herbs camp available. includes unlimited use of course usage limited to cilantro, oregano and thyme) attract many pollinators when driving range. four (4) times per year, no than one time per in bloom. And fourth, don’tmore forget beneficials often spring into action after damage by pests hasmonth. already begun. Slight damage to plants is unavoidable, but should be viewed as a necessary part of the process.

When choosing plants to host beneficial insects, strive to plan your gardening around each season. To avoid beneficials flitting to your neighbor’s yard during the off season, the insects need to have an ample supply of food and shelter throughout the year.

Some plant choices to consider include sweet alyssum (early season), buckwheat (mid-season), and dill (mid-to-late season).

Sweet alyssum are hardy, annual plants which will often selfsow for year after year of blooms. These flowers attract hoverflies, require moderate moisture, and prefer full-sun or partial-shade environments. They can often be planted from seed straight into your garden. Sweet alyssum flowers bloom from June to October and can be encouraged to rebloom by cutting back withered flowers. While they require little maintenance, be sure to avoid planting this flower in an area with excessive shade to prevent botrytis blight, a fungus which grows when the leaves and soil do not completely dry between watering.

Buckwheat is a favorite of many beneficial bugs and often attracts hoverflies and lady beetles. It is recommended to plant buckwheat around mid-July or early August. Buckwheat will bloom just four short weeks later, enticing beneficial insects and pollinators to the shallow white blossoms. These flowers can be planted easily simply by scattering seeds, but remember to cover the seeds with a quick blanket of dry leaves or soil to discourage birds from eating their fill.

Dill is an annual, self-sowing plant which encourages lady beetles, hoverflies, and predatory and parasitic wasps. This plant features feathery green leaves and should be sown as early as two or three weeks before the average date of the last frost in spring. It flowers from summer to autumn and should be planted in full sun.

R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S p r i n g 2 0 1 7

buckwheat

dill

sweet alyssum

Be sure to leave the soil undisturbed to encourage self-sowing for the following year.

In addition to these selections, plants which are native to the area typically are a sure way to attract beneficial insects and pollinators. Insects tend to be drawn to large perennials such as wild parsnip, elderberry, and viburnum shrubs, or vines such as silver lace or wild clematis. Sunflowers also provide a natural winter habitat for insects when the seeds are left intact. These native plants can be used to equip your garden with a permanent beneficial border to ensure insects are not fair-weather friends and keep patrolling your garden on a long-term basis.

When carefully planning and planting a wide variety of flowers, herbs and shrubs to bloom throughout the season, you can successfully encourage beneficials such as lacewings, lady beetles and hoverflies to call your garden their home. These insects encourage the healthy growth of your garden and positively support overall plant growth and a healthy ecosystem. âœŚ

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the

REAL ESTATE

issue

first impressions

OUTSHINE THE COMPETITION WHEN SELLING YOUR HOME

BY CHRIST Y RIPPEL

“YOU NEVER GET A SECOND CHANCE TO MAKE A FIRST IMPRESSION.” It may be a tired adage, but it rings true—particularly in real estate. The decision to buy a house is emotional, and how potential buyers feel when they view photos of your house online, or drive up to it for the first time, can make or break a sale. At the least, a first impression is the time to wow them and ensure your home is on their short list. If you are thinking about listing your home this spring, the following tips can help you go from “For Sale” to “Sold!”

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Make Your Home’s Online Profile Stand Out

An encyclopedia of information is available online, and that includes most details about a home. Often, the first impression of a listing comes from the internet, where anyone can pull up local listings and browse the online photo galleries. Your real estate agent should be able to guide you about his or her preferences for online photos. Some agents may suggest paying extra to hire a professional photographer (or may pick up the tab for this service) and some are accomplished photographers in their own right. Before you hire an agent, make sure you discuss how they handle this important aspect of home marketing. High-resolution, well-lit photos are a must, or a potential buyer might bypass your home with the click of a mouse before ever seeing it in person.

For fantastic photos, lighting can only do so much; staging your home for those photos is just as important. What should you focus on before the photographer shows up at your door? Make sure you have ample time to prepare so you don’t feel stressed. If possible, give yourself a week or more to clean and declutter, and if you can, pick the time of day when your home gets the best natural light. While professional photographers’ lighting tools and tricks can work wonders, as much natural light as possible is best.

Deep Clean and Declutter

If you can, hire a cleaning service to deep clean your home, because chances are they’ll notice dusty nooks and crannies that you may overlook. The goal is to have your home appear clutterfree, while showcasing its best features. You and your agent should discuss what you feel are the home’s best-selling points, and communicate those to the photographer. For guidance on clearing out clutter, pick up a catalog for a furniture company that you love. Notice why you respond to the photos—they are free of broken lamp shades, bad lighting, loud paint colors and general clutter. Try to view each room in your home with new eyes—your agent or a trusted friend also can help tremendously with this.

While people feel emotionally attached to their furniture and decor choices, try to remember that your home is now a product for sale, and you want to position it as best as possible to accomplish your goal. That might include getting rid of your stacks of magazines, putting your multiple bins of toys in storage, and covering up that bright red paint in your dining room that could appear garish in an online photo gallery. This may also include removing as many personalized items as possible—photos and other mementos you have on display. You want homebuyers to be able to envision themselves in the space.

If you are willing to repaint some rooms for a fresh look, opt for neutral paint colors. When potential homebuyers are imagining their own furniture in your home’s spaces, they can do so more easily with a neutral backdrop. Ask your real estate agent for suggestions, consult with an interior designer in your area (many offer color consults), visit a paint store and talk with them about their most popular neutrals, or reference the article about neutral paint colors on page 36 in this issue.

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Invest in Curb Appeal

Once you’ve got an online photo gallery and description that will make a potential buyer swoon, continue to impress them in person with great curb appeal. As HGTV junkies know, the network dedicated an entire show to this topic alone, because it is so vital when selling a house. If your home’s exterior is well r vhomemaga zine .com 2 3

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cared for, a buyer knows that you are conscientious and that the rest of the property and mechanicals are probably in good shape, too. Start with the actual curb—is your mailbox rusted or is the wood rotting? Spruce it up or replace it. Walkways to the home should be in good shape, and well swept. If necessary, contact a mason to fix broken stone or crumbling brick, or have concrete power washed. If landscaping lights are present, make sure they work and look sturdy. Bushes should be trimmed and flower beds tidy—a fresh layer of mulch goes a long way. Inspect your railings and front porch for rot and rust, making sure they are free of both. Your porch lights should work, be cleared of cobwebs and debris, and your front door should look freshly painted and welcoming. Does the door knocker work? How about the doorbell? If these details are off, the buyer might wonder what else is broken, and may be extra critical when they step inside.

Carefully go over the rest of the outside of your home. Is your roof missing shingles, or your gutters stuffed with leaves? Is one of your shutters crooked, or is paint peeling anywhere? Take care of these issues before your home comes on the market. It will show better and ensure that you hit less snares during the inspection stage once you are under contract.

Keep the Staged Look Going Indoors

It’s tough to live in a home while showing it, especially with kids—but extra effort put forth will hopefully pay off with a faster sale. You’ve likely decluttered and had the house deepcleaned for the photo shoot, and now you have to maintain it.

While shoving items in closets and cabinets may have worked for photos, it won’t work for showings. Crammed closets give the impression that the house doesn’t have enough storage space—a red flag for potential buyers.

It may be worth it to rent a storage unit to store off-season decorations, clothing and extra bins of toys and other items.

Having storage spaces in the home, like attics and basements, clear of your own belongings allows the potential homeowner to see how spacious these areas are.

Make sure that carpets, curtains and upholstery are clean and fresh-smelling, and that you have a plan for dogs and cats during showings. Nothing ruins a first impression faster than a dog charging toward an agent and his clients, and it may be hard for someone with pet allergies to see the best features of your home through watery eyes.

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If you have kids, enlist their help with making their own beds and putting away toys when they are done playing. These are good practices that you can keep going, so that even when your house isn’t on the market, everyone is contributing to keeping a tidy look.

Make a Vacant Home Appealing

Suppose you’ve moved on to a job in a new state, or just the house down the street— and you’ve had to leave your now-vacant home on the market. You can still make it appealing, though you may have to go to some extra effort to do so. If there are no furnishings, the buyer pays more attention to the walls and flooring. It may pay off in the long run to spend the money to have holes patched and the house painted after you’ve moved—hooks and holes left in the wall look sloppy. If the carpet has stains, have it replaced. If wood floors are in rough shape, have them refinished.

Nothing says polish like a glossy new floor or fresh carpet. If the walls are bare, the light fixtures and finishes stand out more, so make sure light switch plates aren’t cracked or dirty, and replace any light fixtures that look especially dated.

It may be worthwhile to have a professional stager come in and stage the home with some furnishings—perhaps just a table and chairs in a dining area, and some furnishings in the living or family room so a potential buyer can imagine how the floorplan might work for them. Your real estate agent should be able to provide some names of home stagers in your area.

If you are leaving town, hire a landscaper to take care of the property so that your hard work on curb appeal doesn’t go to waste. The grass should be cut, the leaves collected in the fall, and plantings maintained. Have a discussion with your agent about whether he or she will be responsible for checking on the property at intervals, or if you should enlist someone to help with this task.

If winter hits and the house is still not occupied, you’ll need to winterize the house to prevent pipes from freezing (and bursting). However, if you’ve followed these tips and your home is priced competitively, you should be wellpositioned for a fast sale before winter’s chill. ✦

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LIVE culinary corner

from the

garden party THROW A BACKYARD SHINDIG USING THE SEASON’S RIPE VEGGIES AND HERBS

BY M A R I S SA H E R M A N S O N

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With the arrival of spring, Mother Nature beckons us outdoors with her sunny disposition and warmth. It’s the perfect time for al fresco entertaining! Dust off the patio furniture, fire up the grill, and invite the neighbors over for a casual backyard shindig.

Bring in the

light!

To celebrate the vernal season, you can easily incorporate the season’s bounty into your dishes. Head to your local farmers market and discover spring’s produce. Fresh herbs, earthy root veggies, and leafy greens are ripe for the cooking. Here are a few recipes that let the fruits of spring shine.

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RED BEET HUMMUS

Red beets not only give this hummus its beautiful fuchsia coloring, but also add a lovely earthy sweetness to the dip.

For an appetizer, you can serve this spread straight-up with toasted bagel chips for dipping. Or, if you are feeling creative, you can make mini smørrebrød (Danish open-faced sandwiches)—crostini topped with beet hummus, hard-boiled egg, dill, sea salt and fresh cracked pepper.

1/2 cup red beets (approx. 1 small beet) 2 15.5-ounce cans chickpeas 1/4 cup tahini 1 lemon, juiced 3 tablespoons of olive oil 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped 1/2 teaspoon of salt Fresh dill, to garnish Heat the oven to 400 degrees, wrap beets in foil, place them on a baking sheet, and roast for 45 minutes (until soft and can be pricked with a fork). Remove beets from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes. While beets are cooling, roughly chop the garlic and juice the lemon. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and salt, and blend the mixture until smooth. Rub away the beet skins with a paper towel, making sure not to stain clothes.

Roughly chop the beets and add to the food processor, blending the hummus until smooth. Serve hummus chilled and garnish with dill.

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GRILLED WHITE PIZZA WITH ASPARAGUS AND PEAS

While you are entertaining guests, don’t hide away in the kitchen preparing dinner. By using the grill to whip up this pizza, you will be able to mix and mingle outdoors with family and friends.

Note: To grill pizza, you’ll need a pizza stone, which you can find at your local culinary store. This recipe makes a personalsized pizza. So, if making a large pizza, double the ingredients.

. .no matter how they get altered!

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14 ounces pizza dough 4 ounces ricotta cheese 1 large shallot, thinly sliced 6 stalks asparagus, cut in half and blanched 1/4 cup peas 1 tablespoon of olive oil Fresh dill, to garnish Salt and pepper, to taste

Turn on the gas grill to medium-high heat, place pizza stone on grill, close lid, and let the grill heat for 10 minutes. Roll out the pizza dough into a circle with a 12-inch diameter. Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese on the pizza, and top it with shallots, asparagus and peas, and drizzle with olive oil. Also make sure to brush the crust with a little olive oil as well.

After the grill has heated, place the pizza on the stone, close the grill lid, and bake for 7 to 9 minutes (until cheese is melted and the crust has browned). Remove the pizza, top with fresh dill, and season with salt and pepper.

Recipe adapted from Sweet Paul Magazine

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REFRESHING CHAMPAGNE CUCUMBER SPRITZER

Clean cucumbers, bright citrus, fresh herbs, and effervescent Champagne and seltzer make this spritzer a refreshing beverage to serve on warm evenings. Feel free to substitute another dry sparkling white wine for Champagne.

1 bottle of extra-dry Champagne 1 bottle of seltzer water 1 cucumber, sliced into long thin ribbons 1 lime, sliced into wedges Mint leaves, to garnish Place a cucumber ribbon in a wine glass, add ice and then fill halfway with extra-dry Champagne. Top the beverage off with a splash of seltzer water and a squeeze of lime, and garnish with mint leaves.

Recipe adapted from The Forest Feast ✦ 2 8

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PREMIERE PROJECT

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A variety of home design vignettes allow visitors to visualize their choices in cabinetry, countertops, windows, doors, and lighting, while Capps’ in-house experts ensure success by walking clients through the design process from start to finish.

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HOME

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From their knowledgeable staff to their unmatched quality of products and selections, Capps Home Building Center has set a precedence at Smith Mountain Lake and a template for Design Showrooms here and beyond. Bring your clients for a friendly and knowledgeable experience from “A to Z” on any size project. Windows, doors, cabinets, flooring and anything else needed to complete your project. This is just a few of many reasons why Homestead Custom Builders, Inc. believes in doing business with Capps and their Design Showroom.

David V. Dudley, President, Homestead Custom Builders, Inc.

I brought my clients into the Showroom to choose the options for their Andersen windows and doors and they were very impressed with not only the selection of products, but the knowledge of the salespeople. Our clients are from New Jersey and had visited other local showrooms up there before coming to Capps, but none of them had all the options displayed that allowed them to physically see the differences. It made their decisions much easier!

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IMPROVE kitchen sinks

Photo: Ferguson

rethink your

KITCHEN SINK

T

BY A SHLE Y BL AIR SMITH

he kitchen sink is one of the most-used features in the home. From the preparation and cleanup of a meal to daily chores, the kitchen sink sees a lot of traffic. That’s why when it comes to buying a new one, you should give careful consideration to the material you choose for your new sink, as well as your sink style and installation preferences.

Choosing the Right Materials

When you are replacing a sink, take a minute to think about how you use it. Do you cook elaborate meals most days for a big family, requiring major pot and pan clean up, or are you an occasional chef, or re-heater of leftovers? Depending on how and how often you use your kitchen sink, you’ll want to pick a material that will suit your lifestyle and will last for years to come. The most popular materials that are currently on the market include stainless steel, porcelain, granite composite and concrete.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel kitchen appliances are quite popular these days.

With its sleek look, easy cleanup, and durability, stainless steel

is a great choice for a kitchen sink and will blend well in both traditional and modern kitchens. The downside is that the metal can scratch easily. More often than not, however, those marks and scratches can be buffed out. Still, this is something to keep in mind when choosing your sink.

Porcelain

A porcelain sink is the perfect addition to your kitchen if you are looking for a clean and classic style. Often used in kitchens with a vintage feel, porcelain is a wonderful option for those looking for something simple yet elegant. While porcelain sinks traditionally come in white, the color choices are endless. Just know that porcelain can be chipped if treated roughly. Also, some metal pans can leave black marks and scuffs that can be hard to remove.

Granite Composite

If you’re looking for a really tough material that will last for years to come, a granite composite sink may be the right choice for you. Made from a combination of approximately 80 percent granite and 20 percent acrylic resin, granite composite is a highly durable material that is resistant to scratches, stains and chips.

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In a world full of surprise visitors, it’s nice to know your clients can always count on a clean toilet. With a simple push of a button, the new ActiClean self-clean toilet sends a powerful stream of cleaning solution to scrub the bowl deep-scour clean.

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This material can also withstand high temperatures, making it safe to put hot pots and pans in your sink. Colors range from black and white, to shades of grays and warm browns. Keep in mind, though, that granite composite only comes in matte finish. And due to its porous material, granite composite may be susceptible to stains from waterborne minerals.

Concrete

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If you watch home improvement shows, you may have noticed the growing sensation of concrete countertops in the kitchen. But did you know that you can also get a beautifully made concrete kitchen sink? If you are looking for a sleek and unique material for your kitchen sink, concrete is a great option because no two concrete sinks are alike. Most concrete sinks will have to be measured out and custom made to fit your countertop, which will ensure that you have the right fit and that your sink is one of a kind. This material is incredibly durable and difficult to damage, and should last for years. When choosing a concrete sink, keep in mind that cracks and chips could eventually show up. When this happens, it is important to get those cracks sealed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Also, you’ll need additional support installed underneath the kitchen sink to hold up the heavy concrete.

Choosing Your Style and Configuration

The style of sink you choose will largely depend on how you will use your sink and what you feel will look best with the rest of your kitchen. Some popular styles and configurations include single sink, double sink, farmhouse, overmount (also called drop in) and undermount.

A traditional single deep basin is great for prepping food and easily soaking pots and pans. However, trying to prepare food and wash your dishes at the same time can be a hassle with a single basin sink.

A two basin sink is wonderful for performing different tasks at the same time, such as meal prep and clean up. You can choose to do a 60/40 offset sink, which means one basin will be larger than the other. Or you can simply go with two basins of equal size.

The farmhouse sink has been growing in popularity in recent years. With its clean lines and apron front, these sinks give your kitchen an upscale vintage look. Farmhouse sinks function just like any variation of a traditional sink, so the choice is purely one of aesthetic. A double farmhouse sink is also an option.

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You will also want to consider whether you want an overmount or an undermount sink. There are some pros and cons to each, but it really comes down to the maintenance of the sink and what look you like best.

Overmount sinks are the more traditional style and are easier (and thus less expensive) to install. The outer rim of the sink sits on top of the counter. The only catch here is that this rim can collect food crumbs and dirt, and can become grimy.

Undermount sinks are newer to the kitchen scene, and have become more popular with the increase of counters made from natural stone, for homeowners who didn’t want the sink rim on top of the natural stone counter. Undermount sinks are installed underneath the counters instead of being placed on top, and are held in place with adhesive and supports, which gives the counter a smooth, uninterrupted appearance.

Keep in mind that condensation can build up on the underside as well and cause mold to form there.

Extra Features to Consider

You may also want to consider adding extra features to get more practical daily use out of your new sink.

Built-in drain boards can be a great addition to your kitchen sink if you know you will be washing a lot of dishes by hand or if you would like to have a place for your freshly washed vegetables to dry. An integrated cutting board is also a feature you may want to consider adding into your sink. A built-in cutting board allows for easy access to chopping your fruits and vegetables when preparing meals.

Keep in mind that these features will take up more space, thus taking up precious real estate that is counter space.

Photo: Ferguson

The kitchen sink may not be the most glamorous appliance in your home, but it is used often and helps keep things operating smoothly in your kitchen. With so many styles and materials available, you are sure to find the perfect sink that fits your lifestyle as well as your home. ✦

Photo: Ferguson

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the

REAL ESTATE

issue

NEUTRALS

YOU’LL NOTICE subtle paint shades to make your home stand out COMPILED BY RORY RHODE S 3 6

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O

ONE OF THE BEST THINGS YOU CAN DO WHEN PUTTING YOUR HOME ON THE MARKET IS TO UPDATE THE PAINT. Over time, your home’s walls inevitably start to show the effects of daily life, and a fresh coat of paint goes a long way toward making a space feel bright, refreshed and well-maintained.

When choosing new paint, neutral colors are often your best bet.

A neutral shade will keep the focus on your home’s features and allow prospective buyers to visualize their own furnishings in the space. If your home has noticeably different paint colors in every room, updating to neutral tones (at least in the main living areas) can help enhance the flow of your home’s layout, and solidify its overall impression.

Color fads come and go, and what was all the rage a decade ago may not translate as well in today’s market. To a lesser extent, that holds true even for neutrals. Over the past few years, shades of gray have been increasingly popular as an option to beige, and finding the perfect shade of white has become a bit of a design obsession for some. Unless you’re a design expert, it can be hard to know what shades will work best in your home, but a good real estate agent should be able to offer tips and help you select paint that will show your home to its best advantage. We’ve asked some of the area’s top agents for their paint picks to help get you started.

Mary Chisholm, MKB, Realtors

n SW Kilim Beige With my clients, I do a lot of staging, removing personal items, etc. It’s important to have fresh paint and a somewhat unified color scheme, especially without furniture. If your house is vacant, you’re going to see fingerprints, nail holes, and the signs of how hard you live in your house. You’re going to have to paint. I like Kilim Beige by Sherwin Williams because it’s a soft taupe color that goes with everything. I can put it with grays, browns, or color. It’s enough of a contrast with white trim that it makes it stand out, and it even goes with wood trim. It’s never “in your face”.

Pat Joiner, MKB, Realtors

n BM Revere Pewter n BM Simply White n BM Wickham Gray n BM Pashmina n SW Kilim Beige n SW Repose Gray n SW Alabaster n SW Sea Salt

Here are a few good neutrals that I like. By Benjamin Moore— Revere Pewter, Simply White, Wickham Gray, and Pashmina. By Sherwin Williams—Kilim Beige, Repose Gray, Alabaster, and Sea Salt. They’re a range of modern shades that work well in almost any space. For the Sherwin Williams shades, Repose Gray and Alabaster are great for living room and dining room areas, and Sea Salt is nice for baths and bedrooms. One tip I have for painting is this: It sounds so common sense, but always start with a clean surface—especially for exterior paint—or it won’t adhere well.

Painters don’t always clean first.

Kathy Chandler, MKB, Realtors and president of Roanoke Valley Association of Realtors

n SW Kilim Beige I suggest Kilim Beige by Sherwin Williams, with white trim.

It’s clean and classic and simple and fresh!

Rachele Hunley, Lichtenstein Rowan Realtors

n SW Pearl Gray A freshly painted home helps in so many ways, especially in giving it a crisp, clean feel. It’s hard to pick just one color, but I do like the gray hues, and specifically Pearl Gray from Sherwin Williams. With this color, you immediately feel relaxed walking in. It would do well with darker hardwood floors and white trim.

Alexia Stone, MKB, Realtors

n SW Ivory Lace The National Association of Realtors has statistical reports on home buying, and they say that millennials (ages 18-35) make up more than 60 percent of the national buying market right now.

Older generations might be fine with wallpaper, but millennials have grown up watching HGTV, and are looking for a pictureperfect property where they can visualize their stuff. Paint is the cheapest thing you can do to upgrade your house, and fresh paint indicates that you’ve taken good care of the property.

I like Sherwin Williams paints because they’re good quality.

Ivory Lace is super neutral, so you can go anywhere with it. It doesn’t go yellow like a lot of neutrals, so it really goes with any kind of furniture.

Scott Avis, MKB Realtors

n PPG Pittsburgh Paints Elemental n BM Coventry Gray I’ve seen a lot of light grays recently, but for specific shades I go to James Rogers, of Mountain Top Painting, who paints many homes in our area. Rogers keeps abreast of what’s popular through both local stores and industry research, and he advises looking at Elemental by PPG Pittsburgh Paints, and also Benjamin Moore Coventry Gray.

Susan Bailey, Long & Foster Realtors

n BM French Macaroon The key to selling your house is not making it your own. You want buyers to be able to visualize their own furniture in the space. Benjamin Moore French Macaroon is a soft buttery color that somehow has shades of gray, yellow, white… it blends in and doesn’t scream for attention. It’s universal and will go with a lot of different decor concepts. I think Benjamin Moore is the best resource for paint colors, because they go on true to color and seem to last longer. Most people I know who paint prefer Benjamin Moore. ✦

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ART & SOUL

inside the home of designer Vera Silcox

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

Interesting things have a way of finding Vera Silcox. Her home in South Roanoke, a stately 1950s brick colonial beneath a canopy of trees, is filled with unexpected objects which have found their way into her capable hands. Vera, a painter and designer originally from Abingdon, moved to Roanoke in the early ‘90s, raised three children here, and found her current home about five years ago. “It was somewhat of a fixer-upper,” she says. “But it had an easy-to-maintain yard, it had the potential to house all my stuff, and I thought it would be fun to work on.”

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WHEN ASKED WHAT UNIFIES SUCH A DIVERSE ART COLLECTION AND MAKES IT WORK IN THE SPACE, VERA SAYS, “THEY ARE ALL SIMILAR IN PATINA, ALL SORT OF MUTED. I THINK THAT’S WHERE PEOPLE SOMETIMES MAKE A MISTAKE. THERE HAS TO BE A COMMON THEME TO MAKE IT WORK, EITHER THE FRAMES, OR THE COLORS, OR THE PATINA NEEDS TO GO TOGETHER.”

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AS SOON AS YOU WALK IN, YOU KNOW YOU’VE ENTERED THE HOME OF AN ARTIST.

I

n the white wainscoted foyer, a torso sculpture

by Mary Page Watts rests on a substantial wood block beside a central staircase. Colorful works by various artists, including Vera’s own daughter, artist Mary Dove Silcox, fill the space, which is flanked by a pair of thick-walled passageways to adjacent rooms.

The living room furniture, in shades of terra cotta, gold and taupe, is colorful enough to give life to the space without detracting from the artwork that lines the walls. A number of Vera’s furnishings are pieces which became hers through friends and clients, like the velvet chairs from a friend who bought them in Charleston, and the chunky white coffee table that was on its way to be donated to the Rescue Mission until Vera found it. “So many things that I end up with are just because someone else has gotten rid of them and I think, ‘I can make it work,’” she says. She adds, “I like quality and I can’t always afford the quality that I like, so it seems like things just come to me.” The damask Carol Hicks Bolton sofa once belonged to a friend who wanted a more modern look. Vera knew it was a quality piece, but it wasn’t white, her favored sofa color, so she placed a sheepskin rug on the front of it to brighten it up.

Vera credits her appreciation for quality to her mentor, Betty Moneyhun, who owned an antique store in Bristol, Tennessee. “Betty would bring me really nice things and let me touch them and hold them, so that I could be familiar with nice things when I came across them. I was very much influenced by her great design principles and aesthetics,” Vera says. Though she took classes at Parsons School of Design in New York City, Vera is primarily self-taught, and began her career painting furniture. When she moved to r vhomemaga zine .com 41

Roanoke, Present Thyme Home started selling her work, and soon she was taking appointments to help the store’s clients decorate their homes. Vera says that work has kept her too busy to paint furniture or finish her degree, and these days, in addition to interior decorating, she also helps her clients plan home additions and renovations. Her daughter-in-law, Mary Silcox (not to be confused with daughter Mary Dove Silcox, the artist), is also an interior designer, and draws things to scale for Vera’s projects when needed.

Vera has worked with Present Thyme since 1991, and she travels to High Point Market’s design show twice a year to source goods for the shop, which she often uses in both her clients’ homes and her own. In the living room, she has a Present Thyme embroidered chair and a large 17 by 20-foot jute rug that is a favorite of hers, and can be ordered to size. “I use this a lot for clients,” she says, explaining, “It’s such a good staple because it’s very forgiving and super soft. People are surprised because they think all natural fiber rugs are hard, but this one is extremely cozy.”

Art takes center stage in Vera’s home, and the living room features an array of different styles. Many are portraits, including one of her daughter, Katie, that was done by a street artist in Europe; a portrait of her son, Wyatt, by Vera Dickerson; and a drawing of daughter Mary Dove, made entirely from tiny x’s, created by an architect in Blacksburg from a photo. A large canvas atop the piano reaches to the ceiling and was done by Vera herself. “We call her ‘The Big Woman’,” Vera says, and explains that the figure in the white dress is actually a composite portrait. She says her then-13year-old daughter drew an outline around Vera, and then for the features, “I looked at my daughter, I looked at my son’s nose… I looked at whoever held still until we ended up with that.”

Above the mantel is a plein air autumn scene by Vera’s “latest favorite artist” from Richmond, Andras Bality. When asked what unifies such a diverse collection and makes it work in the space, Vera says, “They are all similar in patina, all sort of muted. I think that’s where people sometimes make a mistake. There has to be a common theme to make it work, either the frames, or the colors, or the patina needs to go together.”

French doors and a wall of windows separate the living room from the sunny breakfast room. It has white brick walls, a painted concrete floor softened by a sisal rug (flipped upside down because Vera preferred the reversed color and pattern) and a round table surrounded by an assortment of chairs. One pair was ordered through Present Thyme for a client who was building a new house, but Vera says, “When I got them in the house I didn’t think they worked, so I promised Liz [Barudin, the owner of Present Thyme] I would buy them if she’d let me order different chairs. They were my own fault, but they work here!”

A cozy study sits to the left of the breakfast nook, with deep gray walls, a black fireplace, and tomato-colored drapes Vera got from a friend. Vera loves the curtains, noting, “They’re done old school, lined with flannel. They’ve been in every house I’ve had.” Though the room is rich with color, the sofa and a slipcovered chair are white, a theme that is repeated in other areas of Vera’s home. “I love shades of white,” she says, “because when different pillows come into fashion and art 4 2

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“I LOVE SHADES OF WHITE,” VERA SAYS, “BECAUSE WHEN DIFFERENT PILLOWS COME INTO FASHION AND ART SWITCHES AROUND, IT ALWAYS WORKS.”

Vera loves the tomato-colored drapes in the study, noting, “They’re done old school, lined with flannel. They’ve been in every house I’ve had.”

switches around, it always works.” A cowhide rug and large polo painting by Greg Osterhaus add warmth, as does a built-in coffee and wine bar featuring Vera’s beloved Saeco coffee maker. “It’s my favorite thing — I’m constantly talking about it,” she admits with a laugh, and jokes, “My kids call it ‘The Fourth Child’ because I like it so much!”

On the other side of the breakfast room is the kitchen, which features open cabinets filled with colorful plates and glasses.

As part of a kitchen renovation, Vera had local contractor Ray Runion refurbish some of the existing cabinets, including making new doors, which she then promptly removed. “I usually do better at keeping things straight if you can see it,” she explains. The renovation also involved removing a wall to incorporate what was once a long hallway, a task completed by Vera’s son, Wyatt Silcox, who, along with partner Mike Kraemer, owns Stone River Contracting. A concrete countertop, Carrara marble backsplash, and quartz-topped island surrounded by a variety of chairs add custom detail to the kitchen, as does the blue ceiling, which Vera says she often uses in her clients’ homes.

“I met [NY designer and author] Alexandra Stoddard, and she was a big promoter of blue ceilings—I thought she was so cool,” r vhomemaga zine .com 4 3

Vera says. When asked the color, Vera says it’s custom but that, “If you go to Sherwin Williams and ask for ‘Vera Blue’ they’ll give you this, because I’ve used it a lot!”

Since the renovation, the kitchen is now open to an L-shaped hallway filled high and low with art and featuring, unexpectedly, a delightful working elevator. The elevator, which Vera uses mostly for groceries, has lush red paint, leopard-print carpet, a chandelier, and, of course, a colorful piece of art—in this case, a blue mosaic. Beyond this fun feature, the hallway continues to a dreamy guest room. The bed frame looks like bamboo but is actually iron, and the all-white bedding features billowy goosedown and a puddled dust ruffle. Gauzy white drapes by Accents on Windows soften the sunlight. The en suite bathroom, once lime green, was renovated

by Stone River Contracting and now boasts updated cabinetry, a Carrara countertop, and marble floors and shower.

Having a handy and talented son has its perks, and also its funny moments. A nearby powder room, also updated by Wyatt’s business, has an unusual organic mirror hung above a white vessel sink. Vera says Wyatt made the mirror from pieces of driftwood as a surprise Christmas gift for a cabin she lived in some years back. He had collected the wood from Claytor Lake and the frame was already assembled, but when the family was gathered together at the cabin on Christmas morning, he still needed to hammer all of the driftwood pieces onto the frame before Vera could see her surprise. Vera recalls hearing lots of banging out where Wyatt was working, and wondering what on earth was going on.

“My daughters kept saying, ‘You’re gonna love it! You’re gonna love it!’” she says.

The hallway leads to the dining room at the front of the house, just off the foyer.

“Almost everything in here has been a giveaway or passed on to me,” Vera says.

Terra cotta brocade drapes were given to her by a friend, as were the white dining chairs.

The table, however, is a piece from the 1780s that Vera purchased, and she chuckles, “It can drop down to a really small table, so I’ll probably take it to the nursing home.” The large chandelier was a gift from a client, and above a sideboard, which is set with a silver tea service, is a cherished painting from her mentor, Moneyhun. A vibrant modern painting atop a gilded curio cabinet was purchased from a Russian artist Vera found at High Point Market, which reminded her of daughter Mary Dove’s work.

At the top of the foyer staircase, Vera’s bedroom is spacious and serene, with 4 4

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The bed frame in the guest room looks like bamboo but is actually iron, and the all-white bedding features billowy goosedown and a puddled dust ruffle.

The elevator features lush red paint, leopardprint carpet, a chandelier, and, of course, a colorful piece of art! r vhomemaga zine .com 4 5

windows looking out into the foliage of the many trees. Her bed faces a fireplace and features a custom frame by Brian Lawrence of Artistic Metals.

White bedding, a pale Oushak rug, and lots of Belgian linen white curtains give the large space an ethereal feeling. More sheepskin touches appear here, because, Vera says, “I’m sort of obsessed with it right now—it’s really nurturing.” An adjacent sunroom with white chairs and ottoman, soft crewel floor pillows, and built-in bookshelves, looks out over the patio. “I come up here to work on projects,” she says. “It’s very quiet, like a treehouse.”

The patio below is accessed from the breakfast room and feels like a private retreat. Brick and stone are covered with moss, and ivy cascades over the retaining wall. Groupings of aged teak furniture and stone sculptures are softened with ferns and surrounded by greenery. Vera says it’s an excellent place to have a glass of wine with neighbors, or just to “ponder.”

The doorbell rings, and it’s Jed Hammer, a client whom Vera helped with a kitchen and master bath renovation. He and his wife, Kay, brought Vera a gift, a painting they saw at LinDor Arts when shopping with Vera for their home. The painting,

by Dee Campbell, is an oil on panel, and has the rich, deep patina of an “old masters” painting. The Hammers knew Vera liked this particular painting and delivered it as a surprise thank you for her work. A stunned Vera cannot believe it, exclaiming, “I’m just absolutely speechless. It’s the sweetest thing I’ve ever seen anybody do.”

The patio is accessed from the breakfast room and feels like a private retreat. Brick and stone are covered with moss, and ivy cascades over the retaining wall.

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I

t’s obvious that Vera builds a special rapport with her clients, and her design instinct is apparent as she carries the painting from room to room looking for the perfect spot. At first, she takes it to the dining room, because the subject is an orange and so it seems appropriate, plus she has some similar tones in that room. She hangs it on a bare spot on the wall and tries it out for a few minutes, but ultimately decides the scale is not quite right. She considers the foyer next, then moves on to the living room. Finally, she hangs it in the thick-walled passageway between the two spaces. She likes how the light falls on it there, and thinks it has better visibility.

Chances are the painting will move to a new location as seasonal light, furnishings or mood change, but for now, it has found its place in Vera’s collection, and she couldn’t be more tickled. “I’ll go without clothes for art,” she says, “I really will.” ✦

Our local lenders are your neighbors DONNA BROWN VAUGHT VP/Mortgage Loan Officer

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

LIVE love your neighbor

getting to know you A NEW NEIGHBOR’S GUIDE

BY S LOA N E LU C A S

We all remember what it was like to be the new person in town. You may not have a social network close by, you don’t know where to go out at night, and if you have kids you’re worried about them making friends. On the flip side, when you’re the longtime resident, you may be curious about new neighbors, maybe even upset if they are replacing a family you came to call friends. Whether you’re moving to a new town yourself, or trying to meet the new family on your street, there are many ways to reach out and connect with the new kids on the block.

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Welcoming New Neighbors

You saw the real estate sign go up, spied on the foot traffic during open houses, and watched as the moving van pulled away. If you were close to neighbors who moved away, it can be bittersweet when others take their place. You’re excited to meet some new people, while sad to see your old friends depart.

But a few kind gestures can go a long way toward building relationships with the new additions.

The most traditional way to welcome new neighbors is to stop by when they are home with a simple batch of baked goods in hand. Cookies, brownies and blondies are easy to make. Or you can make a themed breakfast basket, such as pairing a baked (or purchased) coffee cake with a bag of coffee. If the new family has kids, enlist your own kids to bake and bring the sweet treats with you, to help alleviate the stress the new kids must be feeling after leaving friends from their old neighborhood.

If your new neighbors are moving in during the summer, and you grow vegetables or flowers, share some bounty from your garden.

Another practical, creative way to welcome new neighbors is to collect menus from local restaurants, providing critical intel on the best takeout in town. You can also compile a list of your favorite plumbers, electricians and other home repair contacts— perfect for people discovering the quirks of their new house.

Whatever you bring over, include a welcome card with your name, cell phone and email and encourage them to reach out and contact you if they need anything.

If you really want to go the extra mile, and you see them unloading their own belongings from a truck, offer to help.

On the flip side, if arriving with gifts in hand or offering up manual labor isn’t your style, just make the effort to walk over when they are out and about and introduce yourself, point out which house is yours, give them your email and phone number, and simply welcome them to the neighborhood.

Of course, breaking bread is a time-honored way to get to know people, so the next step might be to invite them to a social gathering. If you’re ambitious, organize a small block party. If you prefer something more casual, invite them over for an easy pizza night.

With a few simple gestures, you are on your way toward making your new additions feel right at home.

Getting to Know Your Neighborhood

What if you’re the new neighbor? How can you proactively reach out to the families on your block and start building your social circle?

In an ideal world, your neighbors would be arriving with baked goods and menus to welcome you, but if not, don’t wait for them to make the first move.

Don’t be shy about sharing your information. Print up a letter introducing yourself, listing your cell and email. Buy some festive envelopes and drop letters off in people’s mailboxes.

If you have kids, walk them to the school bus in the morning and see if there’s an opportunity to meet the other parents.

Hosting a party in your new home is a great excuse to reach out and meet your new neighbors. If you are planning any major decor updates to the home, pass out invitations to neighbors for a “Before” party with a promise to invite everyone again after the house is updated. It’s also a great opportunity to ask folks what they know about the house, and perhaps glean some helpful nuggets—for better or worse. (“Oh you know, there was that time when the basement flooded.”) You can also ask for names of contractors and other recommended home repair companies.

Depending on the closest holiday, you could host a themed party. A Halloween costume party, a cookie swap and tasting competition with fun prizes at Christmas, a St. Patrick’s Day feast—anything festive and fun that encourages folks to stop by.

As you introduce yourself to new families in your neighborhood, keep track of names. Draft a sketch of your block with all the houses mapped out. Write down people’s names as you meet them, assigning them to the correct house. Collect emails and cell phone numbers and enter them into your phone for easy access.

Pretty soon you’ll have everyone’s name, numbers and emails, and can start to develop one-on-one relationships with your neighbors. Before you know it, you’ll be part of the established neighborhood, all the better to extend a greeting to the next new family on the block. ✦

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IMPROVE indoor air quality

HVAC

your key to indoor air quality and comfortable living

BY J E R RY H A L E Despite having been saddled with a rather unglamorous acronym, your home’s “HVAC” system—Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning—is the big kahuna when it comes to living chill-free, sweat-free and dust/allergy-free. Indeed, “HVAC” could just as easily stand for “Indoor Air Quality and Comfort” if you’re willing to take liberties with acronym assignment.

After all, your HVAC system, hidden away in the basement, attic or utility closet, is heavily responsible for keeping your home comfortable—snuggy warm during the wintry months, perspiration-free cool in the heat of the summer, and reasonably free of germs, airborne allergens and other irritants year-round.

As such, it deserves periodic attention to keep it purring.

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“Regular filter changes are key to efficient and problem-free operation,” says Ted Puzio, principal of Roanoke's Southern Trust Home Services, which provides HVAC as well as plumbing, electrical, water conditioning and indoor air quality systems and service to surrounding areas, including Smith Mountain Lake. “While homeowners with pets or with lots of dust-raising activity—a houseful of kids, perhaps— may find their filters clog faster, two to three filter changes a year is typical in our area.”

As with your cars and most other mechanical equipment, annual inspection and maintenance by qualified professionals is critical to long and problem-free operation. Says Puzio: “Preventative maintenance helps avoid home heating and cooling emergencies, and periodic 'tune ups' generally pay for themselves in energy savings due to more efficient operation. Our ‘Total Care Club’ provides members with a spring and fall visit to clean the system, check pressures and amperage inside and out, and to ensure coolant levels are correct and condensate drains are running free.”

Another possible “trigger” for your annual HVAC maintenance visit might be anticipation of the arrival of a batch of holiday or weekend company. Breakdown of the AC or heating system when you have guests in the house is a major stress and discomfort producer that can tarnish an otherwise delightful visit.

Older systems may also benefit from replacement of the original thermostat with an upgraded programmable model that will automatically adjust HVAC operation (and thus energy usage) based on a family's living patterns. “You don't need your system running at full capacity when no one is home or everyone is sleeping,” Puzio notes. “People dash off to work, forgetting to adjust the thermostat, and the system cranks away all day, with no one home. That just burns unnecessary energy and ages the unit prematurely.”

The $100 to $250 investment involved, he says, typically has a relatively short payback period. Puzio’s home uses a more sophisticated wifi-enabled model (up to $500 installed) that allows him to monitor and adjust indoor air temperature from a smartphone. “These can be especially useful for people who leave their homes vacant in winter months, when outside air temperatures (and danger of pipes freezing, etc.) can vary significantly over time,” he points out.

Another recommended HVAC accessory is a humidifier, an add-on unit that will keep indoor humidity at recommended levels of 40 to 60 percent (somewhat lower with really frigid outside air) during heating season. “Really dry indoor air leads to wood shrinkage as well as discomfort and health issues,” says Puzio.

While your HVAC system isn't the most glamorous feature of your home, it’s among those that have the most influence on comfortable living. Giving it the attention it deserves will help make sure it stands at the ready to deliver problem-free operation. ✦

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USEFUL “DIRT” REGARDING FURNACE FILTER SELECTION Furnace filters are graded on their particle-trapping abilities using the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Rating Value) scale. Most residential filters range from 4 to 14 on the 16-point MERV scale. Manufacturers like to use traditional spun fiberglass filters with low MERV ratings because they filter out the big particles but with very little restriction of airflow, allowing for efficient operation of the unit.

Maintaining manufacturer's specified airflow is also important to getting maximum life from the system's blower motor and heat exchanger.

An inexpensive MERV 4 filter captures 80 percent of airborne particles 50 microns and larger, but only 25 percent of the particles in the 3 to 10 micron range. An upgrade to a MERV 7 or 8 pleated filter, which will capture 80 to 95 percent of particles 5 microns and larger, provides more aggressive filtration and a reasonable balance between cost and filtration efficiency.

If you're obsessed with clean air or have family members with allergies or

52

low-immunity issues, high-efficiency (MERV 11 and higher) filters can be considered, but will need to be changed monthly to preclude particle buildup. Such buildup can severely inhibit airflow, overtaxing the blower motor and leading to system freezeups. An ultra-high efficiency filter should only be installed on advice of an HVAC technician who may be able to make adjustments that will help the unit operate properly despite increased airflow resistance.

Ted Puzio of Southern Trust Home Services points out yet another option for keeping air clean. “Ultraviolet filtering systems are incredible devices designed to keep the air you breathe at home safe and virus-free. They also combat any mold that may occur from condensation in the summer months,” he says.

In sum, the choice of which filter to buy for your furnace is influenced by how much you want to spend, how pure you want the air, and how diligent you are about changing the filter.

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DESIGN cake stands

Sweet & Neat

CLEVER USES FOR DESSERT STANDS ARE ICING ON THE CAKE IT’S HARD TO RESIST A CUTE CAKE STAND. If you have one (or several), or if you’ve eyed them at the store or at your friend’s house, you might wonder what to do with them when they aren’t fulfilling their designated purpose.

But these sweet treats are actually too useful to let them stand alone!

In addition to cakes and desserts, they’re fun for canapés or tea sandwiches, and for storing fruit, snacks and condiments. What about a charming tea or coffee station, outfitted with pretty mugs, and a sugar bowl and creamer?

They make excellent bases for spring centerpieces— try a charming posy, bird’s nest, and painted Easter eggs or objet d’art. Fill a low bowl with blooms and use the cake stand as a decorative base to add height, or top one with a collection of candles.

They also make stylish clutter keepers, holding collections of makeup, perfume, jewelry, craft bits and bobs, and even office supplies like paperclips, Post-it notes, and business cards. The possibilities are practically endless! ✦

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the

REAL ESTATE

issue

refinance WITH CONFIDENCE

BY A L E X A N D R A R E Y N O L D S

When considering a mortgage refinance, homeowners may be overwhelmed by the many possibilities and programs available to them. Here, HOME asks local mortgage experts to share their expertise to help homeowners understand their options.

Reasons to Refinance

There are many reasons and scenarios in which it makes sense for homeowners to refinance. Many want to refinance for a shorter loan term to “save thousands of dollars in interest over the life of the loan,” says Billy Woolridge of Embrace Home Loans. “Others choose to extend the term of an existing loan to lower monthly payments and ease monthly cash flow pressures in the event of a job loss or death of a wage earner.”

Some homeowners choose to switch to a new loan program that offers a lower mortgage insurance premium or no insurance costs at all. Retired homeowners may choose a reverse mortgage as it can be used to provide additional retirement income based on available equity. Cindy Stultz of Virginia Mountain Mortgage notes, “We also see a lot of requests for a cash-out refinance to consolidate other debt, fund home improvements, or invest in other ventures.” She says that these transactions require a considerable amount of equity in the home.

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The Current Market

“Rates are still at historic lows, but they are on the rise,” Stultz says. She says that anyone considering a refinance should do so as soon as possible, as there is no way to know where rates will be, going forward. The Federal Reserve has raised their rate twice with .25 percent increases since late 2016, according to Woolridge, and mortgage rates have risen almost 1 percent in the same timeframe. “The predictions are that we will see further increase in 2017, but no one knows how much or exactly when,” he says.

Fixed Rates vs. Variable Rates

“A fixed rate means that the rate will never go up or down. You know exactly what you have. With fixed rates so low, most clients would be best served in this type of product,” Stultz says.

However, she notes that homeowners who do not plan to live in their home for more than a few years may want to consider an adjustable rate mortgage or ARM, in which the rate tends to be locked in for five to ten years.

Woolridge explains, “Adjustable rates are designed to start out at a lower-than-market rate and then adjust to market over the life of the loan. The longer someone keeps an adjustable rate loan, the greater the chance that it may cost more than a fixed rate loan would have. Depending on the terms of the loan, homeowners are more susceptible to significant payment shock if rates continue to rise.”

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Considerations and Fees

Homeowners should be aware that there are closing costs and additional fees attached to a refinance. Woolridge cautions that advertisements for loans promoting “no closing costs” can be deceiving, explaining that this usually means that the lender is paying the fees on the borrower’s behalf in exchange for a slightly higher interest rate. Stultz says, “You want to be certain any improvement in rate offsets the costs of the loan, so that you walk away with an improvement in your financial condition.”

She also notes that homeowners considering a move may want to hold off on refinancing, as they may not have enough time to recoup the costs of the loan.

Kelly Goldsmith, ISA AM

Goldsmith Appraisal Service, LLC 540.588.4770 • email: kbgoldie2@gmail.com

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Finding the Right Lender

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“Since the collapse of the mortgage industry in 2007, there have been many federal regulations put in place to protect the consumer,” Stultz says. She urges homeowners to find someone who is up to date on the current guidelines. Furthermore, Woolridge states, “Homeowners should look for the same qualities in a lender that they would look for in any of their day-to-day business dealings: honesty, integrity, professionalism, product knowledge, sincerity and competitive prices.” A lender should inquire about the homeowner’s plans for the house, home improvements they have made, the home’s current value, and the details of their current loan, he notes. “Communication is key to a clean transaction,” Stultz says. “Having a local lender where the client can meet face to face is always a plus. Local lenders are your neighbors and thus they have a higher degree of accountability to their clients.”

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Homeowners may wonder how much equity they need to qualify for a new loan. Woolridge says, “Depending on the current loan type, there is an option to refinance up to 100 percent of the current value for some.” The exact amount varies according to the requirements of each loan program and the individual’s reason for refinancing. Stultz says, “The federal government initiated a refinance loan program designed to allow homeowners who owe more than their home is worth, or who have very little equity, to refinance into a lower rate. The program is called HARP—Home Affordable Refinance Program.” The rates are based on the current market, and the homeowner’s current loan must be an eligible Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan to qualify. She also notes that this program is set to expire at the end of September 2017.

Final Tips

Woolridge encourages homeowners to always seek professional assistance when planning a refinance. “Do not get caught up in the hype of television or radio commercials and end up in a transaction on the internet or via an 800 number with no clear goal in mind,” he says. “Do some homework before jumping in.”

Furthermore, Stultz says, “In today’s environment, there is very little gray area. The documentation requested by one lender will be required by all lenders. Being compliant with the lender’s requests will make the loan process run much more smoothly.”

If the homeowner has an issue related to credit or property, they should tell their lender up front, she says, as the lender serves as an advocate for the homeowner. Stultz encourages homeowners to “be patient and understand that the lender’s number-one goal is to successfully close their loan.” ✦ R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S p r i n g 2 0 1 7

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GARDEN spring lettuces

Use an old Mason jar or other recycled glass jar to make dressing. Simply add the ingredients to the jar, screw on the top and shake to blend the ingredients.

Here are two simple, fresh variations.

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Freshly grated parmesan cheese

or

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons Champagne vinegar 1 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Use endive, baby romaine or arugula, or a combination tossed in a salad bowl.

Drizzle with dressing, and add your favorite toppings.

Rustic bread always makes the spread a little more inviting. Bon appetit!

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G

B Y K AT H E R I N E F U LG H U M K N O P F

rowing a variety of greens is easy this spring. You will find lettuce seed packets everywhere—from local garden shops and hardware centers to big box stores. Spring lettuces are simple to grow, provide quick results, and are full of vitamins and minerals. And fresh greens have so many uses: They fill the salad bowl, top sandwiches and fill wraps, and provide the base layer on a good plate of salmon, chicken or sliced beef. Here’s how to grow your own spring mix.

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Creating a Spring Mix

If you are planting a garden, add several rows of different spring lettuce varieties. These are the leafy varieties that make a salad or sandwich colorful—not the traditional Iceberg lettuce that grows into a big head. It is hard to choose just a few as they have wonderful names to captivate your attention. “Spring Mix” in the grocery store’s produce department becomes exotic when it’s found in seed packets bearing catchy names such as Ruby, Tango and Black Seeded Simpson. You can’t just buy one or two! Read the back of each packet for a description of each variety’s taste, texture and colors. There are so many varieties, and they grow so easily from seed that you will be pleased with the quick results.

If you aren’t planting a garden or just want some greens within easy reach out your back door, consider planting in pots.

A big clay pot with one or two selections, or a group of pots each containing a single type of lettuce will add color and warmth to those early spring days. Lettuces can be planted to fill in between

ON VIEW THROUGH MAY 14, 2017 Tickets at TaubmanMuseum.org

110 Salem Ave SE, Roanoke, VA Sally & Walter Rugaber

Frederick Childe Hassam, Descending the Steps, Central Park (detail), 1895, oil on canvas, 22 3/8” x 22 1/4”, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, Gift of the Estate of Hildegarde Graham van Roijen, 93.112. Photograph: Katherine Wetzel © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. This exhibition was initiated

by The New York Botanical Garden in Bronx, NY, and was curated in part by Linda S. Ferber, Ph.D. Travel of this exhibition is made possible by the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this exhibition do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

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your spring flowers too. Just plant your pansies in a pot with some space between the flowers, make a few holes in the potting soil, and sprinkle in lettuce seeds. Cover with soil, and in about a week, you should see sprouts. Once greens grow to maturity (60 days or less), begin cutting them for your meals. With water and pruning, they will continue to grow and provide you with delicious meals all season long.

Lettuces can be planted any time beginning in mid-spring.

April is a great time to start, as you don’t have to cover seedlings as often due to fewer frosty nights. Once you plant seeds, all they need is water and sunlight to germinate. These little seeds will grow into beautiful little bunches of lettuce within eight weeks.

When the heat of mid-summer arrives, these spring lettuces will begin to dwindle, and you can either plant a new crop in early July (just remember these lettuces will require more care and attention due to heat) or wait until fall to try the autumn varieties.

Lettuces come in so many different types that you should choose selections that offer different colors and textures to make your salads interesting. You want the appeal of various leaves and tastes, so read each seed packet carefully to understand the variety’s characteristics. Some lettuces, such as arugula, are quite bitter and add a spicy element, which can be preferred (or not).

From Planting to Plate

Most lettuce varieties sprout in a week to ten days, and are ready to eat in five to eight weeks. You want to harvest them when the first leaves mature, and continue to water them well. The lettuce in pots will need more frequent watering, unless the pots are quite large and can retain more water.

Planting in April will give you salads for late May and June.

What’s even better is that the more you cut for your salad bowl, the more your plants will grow and produce for you. To harvest, cut the lettuce leaves off one inch above the soil, and they will sprout another crop in no time.

Having fresh greens on hand offers a multitude of quick meal options. Fresh salad is the essence of spring, and planting your own is an easy spring project that can be fun and even involve the whole family. Growing your own greens benefits your garden, your table, and your health, and adds creativity to your meals and your outdoor space. ✦ 6 0

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DESIGN to reupholster…or not?

reupholstery WE’VE GOT IT COVERED

BY M EG A N JA NS EN

If you’ve noticed that a room in your home is looking drab, with tired or threadbare fabric on the furniture, or a piece has been cleaned one too many times, it’s probably time for a furniture reboot. You can choose to start over and buy something new, or you can consider reupholstering—and sometimes this is a tough decision, since both options can carry significant costs.

So how do you make the decision to reupholster… or not? Start by carefully inspecting the piece of furniture in question, or ask an upholsterer to help with this. Examine the piece’s frame, and make sure it is made of hardwood. Inspect the corner braces to be sure they are strong and intact. The underlying construction should be stable; test the piece to make sure that it doesn’t rock while being used. A recognizable manufacturer’s name, such as Henredon, Vanguard or Michael Thomas, usually indicates a good quality piece. Though if you bought the piece in question many years ago, and it is showing signs of structural wear and tear, it might not be worth updating.

If the piece seems to be in good shape, and is of long-lasting quality—and if you like the look and comfort the piece offers, reupholstering might be a good choice. But how much will an upholstery job cost? This varies greatly according to the fabric you choose, the size of your piece, the details—welting, trims, buttons, skirts—as well as your location and who completes the job for you. Experts suggest a very broad range of estimates for labor only:

n a wing chair with contrasting welt, decorative trim and tailored skirt: $450-$700; n a 3-seat and 3-back-cushioned sofa: $850-$1,250; n a 1-seat and 1-back-cushioned club chair: $550-$700; n an unskirted ottoman with attached cushion: $225-$300.

At these prices—and the fabric will be an extra cost—you may decide to buy a new piece of furniture after all. But let’s assume that the upholstery project is a go because, after all, it is your favorite chair, and it is structurally sound. Or perhaps everything in the room in question looks too matchy or too traditional, and just needs a pop of color or a bit of interest. Perhaps reupholstering just one piece will breathe new life into a whole room and ultimately save you some money, at least in the short term by allowing you to put off a full remodel.

In selecting fabric, the appropriate weight will depend on where and how the piece of furniture will be used. Living/family room furniture that’s going to see a lot of traffic requires heavy duty upholstery-grade fabric, whereas a bedroom chair that is

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seldom sat upon could use a lighter, more decorative fabric.

Select a fabric that will update the piece; go from a solid to a pattern, or a complete change of color instead of taking the safe route. Take home a fabric sample or borrow a bolt, and drape it over as much of the piece as possible. Live with it for a few days before making a final decision. Keep in mind the current trend of mixing styles for interest; a blend of traditional and contemporary, or a modern fabric on a traditional piece can go a long way to keep a room from looking stuffy or dated.

Retailers who sell fabric as well as designers and upholsterers can (and should!) help you determine how much fabric you will need. One website that can give you a ballpark figure is FabricGuru.com, which illustrates over 60 styles of chairs and sofas with measurements, to give you an idea of the amount of fabric required for a project. However, always confirm the amount of fabric you need with the person doing the job. The upholsterer will know the exact amount needed, and will take into account the fabric repeat as well as all the folds and overlaps that will arise. When purchasing fabric, make sure you order enough—you want to be sure all the fabric for the project comes from the same dye lot and that you have extra available if you need it.

You can change the shape and contour of a piece by adding contrasting welt to define the lines. This works best on a sculptural piece like a wing chair that has curves. A new look can result from a change of the skirt: add one, remove one, or install the skirt higher on the piece giving the piece a more elongated look. Removing tufting or channeling will change the shape of the piece, transforming it from old-fashioned to modern.

Embellishments are exciting! Trims, tassels, fringe and cording—whether beaded, braided, fabric or lacy—provide the icing on the cake, adding pizzazz to your upholstery project.

Decorative upholstery “clavos” (Spanish for “nails,” also known as decorative tacks) have been used for many years to accent furniture pieces and continue to be a hot trend. You can choose from literally hundreds of different decorative nail looks and sizes to add a special touch to your newly reupholstered piece.

So... to reupholster or not? This is one design decision that is entirely personal and unique to your situation—including the quality of the existing pieces, what you wish to accomplish, and whether you can find something new that fills the bill. If you do decide to reupholster, make all the involved decisions with care.

Only then will the result add that “Wow!” factor to your home. ✦

Just Arrived! 2017 Shipment of Outdoor Furniture

Specializing in Custom Design & Renovation

Interiors By AND CARPET GALLERY Kris Willard, A.S.I.D., NCIDQ Certified

SUMMER CLASSICS 6 2

interiorsbykris.com • 13161 Booker T. Washington Highway (540) 721-8354 • M-F 9-5, Sat 10-2

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KLAUSSNER

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LANE VENTURE R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S p r i n g 2 0 1 7

GARDEN blooms about town

HISTORIC GARDEN DAY in Roanoke

E

Each spring visitors are welcomed to over 250 of Virginia’s most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks during The Garden Club of Virginia’s Historic Garden Week. A beloved tradition, this 8-day statewide event provides visitors a unique opportunity to see unforgettable gardens at the peak of Virginia’s springtime color, as well as beautiful houses sparkling with over 2,300 flower arrangements created by Garden Club of Virginia members. Locally, Historic Garden Week festivities in Roanoke will be held Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., hosted by the Mill Mountain Garden Club and the Roanoke Valley Garden Club.

THE IRIS IS THE “SIGNATURE FLOWER” FOR THIS YEAR’S TOURS.

This year’s tour includes five homes in the Edgehill neighborhood, each reflecting its own original architectural charm complemented by the current homeowners’ style and updates. The day includes special events as well, including refreshments and lunch offerings, and the opportunity to visit other points of local interest.

Please see www.vagardenweek.org for information on purchasing tickets and to view the most current schedule of events. Advance tickets are available online, at various locations around town, and on the day of the tour. Here, enjoy a preview of what’s in store during Historic Garden Day in Roanoke.

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3635 RIDGEFIELD LN

CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS I FURNITURE I WALL & FLOOR COVERINGS I BEDDING I LIGHTING I ACCESSORIES

KRISTIN KOPCIAL OWNER/DECORATOR 540.525.3217 kristinkopcial@decoratingden.com www.decdens.com/kristinkopcial

A part of the Smith Mountain Lake Community for over 30 years with the knowledge, commitment and service to meet and exceed client expectations whether buying or selling. Call or visit us today and work with a company you can trust.

www.SmithMtnLake.com

540-721-8659

©2017 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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3635 RIDGEFIELD LN

3635 Ridgefield Lane Home to the current family since 2003, this stately brick Colonial home holds a rich history. It was built in 1959 by Norfolk and Western Railroad President Paul Funkhouser for his family. In 1992, subsequent owners, the Vaughans, added the family room, breakfast room and half bath which give the house an attractive balance. Now filled with the homeowners’ gorgeous art and family antiques, the home flows easily from one room to the next. The kitchen, redone in 2015, showcases hand-crafted white cabinetry with white granite countertops in a beautifully laid out design. The dining room, with its hand painted wallpaper, overlooks a wooded patio and garden. Off the family room, a deck perches high over the shade gardens and offers a beautiful view. The home showcases a paradise of family antiques, furniture and art collected over the years. The homeowners have a great eye for unique finds that have wonderful stories to accompany them.

You will want to linger over art by Walter Biggs, Dorothy Kincheloe, Sally Turner, Jim Yates, Peter Ring, May Weddle, Cynthia Jones, Ted Turner, Anne Waldrop, Mary Boxley Bullington, Eric Fitzpatrick, Lainy Wilhelm, Allen Palmer, Vera Silcox, Betsy Cunningham Morgan and Peyton Klein. The Parrott Family, owners.

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600 Ridgewood Lane

3654 RIDGEWOOD LN

3654 Ridgewood Lane The current homeowners bought this brick home with black shutters in 2014. Originally built by the Angles in 1958, the home features a covered front porch that offers a lovely valley view. The current owners enhanced the outside space by refinishing the pool and building stone walls and a patio to surround it. They installed a brick fireplace and an outdoor kitchen under a covered porch to maximize their outdoor living. Wrought iron fencing was added in the front and back to blend the wood and stone features. The yard was completely landscaped to accentuate the pool and patio areas. Inside, the basement was turned into a man cave with three large flat-screen tvs, a wet bar and leather sofas. It is a wonderful place to relax and watch sports after a day by the pool or a meal on the grill. This home is truly a haven up on the hill. The Dalton Family, owners.

This stunning contemporary home sits up among mature hardwood trees on the mountainside. Built in the 1960s as a traditional ranchstyle home, the current owners bought the home in 2005 and completely renovated it. By bumping out key areas of the home—the front entrance, the kitchen and the master bedroom—they created a treehouse in the woods. The use of large windows and bamboo floors throughout the main floor sets the tone for a home filled with sunlight and nature. In the winter, sun floods the home and keeps it warm and vibrant. In the summer, the leaves on the trees shade the house and give it refuge from the heat. The kitchen is a perfect use of space and materials to create a chef’s dream kitchen. Off the kitchen, the owners built a brick patio with salvaged brick they purchased from an old Norfolk and Western railway station in Franklin County.

They retrofitted an old barbecue into an outdoor fireplace that sits on the edge of the patio. The dining room furniture is an antique set they found on a trip to New Orleans. The living room is filled with books, art, antiques and collectibles. The screen porch offers a wooded spot for eating outdoors and a quiet spot for reading. Be sure to see the vegetable garden they planted in a sunny spot in the front yard and the native plants that surround the patio out back. The Jennings Family, owners 600 RIDGEWOOD LN

Elaine Stephenson Interiors, Inc. Elaine Stephenson, Asid, Cid

3117 Franklin Road | Roanoke, Virginia 24014 | 540.344.9401 | www.ESInteriors.com r vhomemaga zine .com 65

ADVERTISER index 420 Bramble Lane

Astonish Antique Restoration.......................................28 Baron Enterprises................................................................29 Berkshire Hathaway-Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate..........................................................................64 Better Sofas........................................................................... 60 Blacktop Sealers, Inc.........................................................56 Capps Home Building Center..................................2, 30 Carilion Clinic........................................................................... 21 Closet Storage Organizers............................................... 51 CMC Supply, Inc....................................................................34 Coldwell Banker Townside............................................... 13 Construction Marketing LLC.......................................... 57

420 BRAMBLE LN

Decorating Den Interiors of Roanoke.......................64 Elaine Stephenson Interiors, Inc..................................65 F&S Building Innovations............................................... 52 Faith Christian School....................................................... 23 Ferguson...................................................................................35 First Bank and Trust Company.....................................55 Gene's Trading Post...........................................................24 Goldsmith Appraisal Service, LLC..............................55 Grand Home Furnishings................................................. 25 Halifax Fine Furnishings...................................................20 HomeTown Bank.................................................................... 11 Interiors by Kris.....................................................................62 Jeannine Hanson, Realtor................................................18

420 BRAMBLE LN

A COMPLETE TOUR OF THE SILCOX HOME IS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE BEGINNING ON PAGE 38.

Three sisters built this beautiful 1958 Colonial brick home. Originally three separate apartments, it now is a single-family home filled with a magnificent art collection that features local and nationally acclaimed artists. The kitchen and baths were redone in 2012 by the current homeowner.

The kitchen, with its serene white cabinets and granite, invites a feeling of comfort as it draws you into the house from the front hall. The breakfast room overlooks a brick patio surrounded by ferns that lead into a shade garden. The master bedroom and bath offer a quiet retreat on one side of the first floor. The mirror in the master bath is a work of art. Made of driftwood, it offers a unique focal point over the white vanity. The den and living room host calm neutrals so that the art is allowed to take the main stage. The elegant dining room features beautiful antiques and long dramatic curtains. The variety of art and eclectic collectibles featured in this home are not to miss.

Artists such as Ann Glover, Vera Dickerson, Andy Bality, Tom Lawson, Dave Wertz, Earnest Johnson, Mary Page Watts as well as the homeowner and two of her children make this home one to savor.

The Silcox Family, owners.

Kevin Hurley Photography.............................................. 32 LinDor Arts..............................................................................67 Magnolia Décor...................................................................... 12 Margaret Crayé, Realtor....................................................10 Member One Federal Credit Union............................ 57 MKB Realtors..........................................................................68 N-Hance.......................................................................................9 National Pools of Roanoke, Inc.......................................5 Opera Roanoke ..................................................................... 51 Prescott Construction....................................................... 32 Present Thyme......................................................................47 Reclaimed @ Smith Mountain Lake............................18 Richfield Retirement .........................................................29 Roanoke Country Club.....................................................20 Roanoke Symphony Orchestra....................................56 Ronnie Mitchell and Son Landscaping....................... 4 Southern Lamp and Shade Showroom................... 27 Spectrum Stone Designs................................................. 27 Susan Bailey, Long & Foster Real Estate................. 17 Taubman Museum...............................................................59 The Columns..............................................................................6 The Happy Housekeepers...............................................24 The Little Gallery.....................................................................3 Thomas & Wall Real Estate.............................................34 Virginia Mountain Mortgage (Bank of Botetourt).......................................................47 Whitt Carpet One............................................................... 60 YARID'S .................................................................................... 28

For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@rvhomemagazine.com.

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408 BRAMBLE LN

408 Bramble Lane Made of stone and cypress shake singles, this home was started in 1931 and completed in 1933. The architects, Thompkins and Boykin, are known for their variety of designs. They also designed Crystal Spring Elementary School and Jefferson High School. Their drawings are archived in the Virginia Tech School of Architecture in Blacksburg. Their choices of leaded glass windows, archways and moldings make the home a charming mountain house. The house’s architectural detail is complemented by Oriental rugs, antiques and a great-grandmother’s china and crystal collection. Art from local artists as well as city scenes of New York and Roanoke hang throughout the home. The dining room opens to a patio that looks down the mountainside. The home is surrounded by gardens on all sides. The gardens offer a variety of native plants and shrubs to complement the landscape of the home. The current homeowner added a two-car pea-gravel parking area and an additional patio area for outside dining to make it a delightful mountain retreat that overlooks the woods. The Marsh Family, owners. ✦ R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E S p r i n g 2 0 1 7

THE VALLEY’S LARGEST LOCALLY OWNED REAL ESTATE FIRM For more than 43 years, giving back to our community and profession has been the cornerstone of our success. We believe that in life and in business, you get more than you give. Our expertise includes residential, commercial, land, property management, relocation and mortgage services. Our Associates are ready to serve you. Call us today for all your real estate needs.

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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

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