HOME SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

design ✦ improve ✦ garden ✦ live

funsun IN THE

LAKESIDE POOLS

water, water, everywhere

ALL IN THE DETAILS

updates with impact

DECKS & DOCKS

functional to fabulous ANNUAL ISSUE 2019

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

ONE HOME, ONE BUYER, ONE DREAM AT A TIME.

Building and Remodeling Homes in the Smith Mountain Lake Area

ROBERT R BAUER BUILDING CONTRACTORS INC.

CUSTOM HOMES • ADDITIONS • REMODELING Certified Graduate Master Builder | Certified Graduate Remodeler | Certified Green Builder

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Make this the year you transform your outdoor space into a functional and beautiful place to relax and entertain! Our national award-winning team can help you explore an array of exciting possibilities. Whether you are interested in an elegant patio, deck, lakeside pathways, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, pool, hot tub, pergola or complete outdoor living space, weâ€™ll make your back yard your favorite destination!

Call us at 434.821.6004 or visit us on the web at soscapes.com to schedule a consultation.

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Weâ€™re just getting started!

With enhanced services and amenities, expanded walking trails, new lakeside garden homes and diverse opportunities for enjoyment, The Summit Life Plan community makes getting the most out of life easy! Offering you customizable and maintenance-free homes, plus priority access to healthcare right on campus â€“ life at The Summit means peace of mind. Fill your day with a variety of activities on and off campus, (four golf courses nearby!) or sit back and relax in your new home...the choice is yours. Call today to start planning your future at The Summit!

A LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY Call The Summit today to schedule your visit: 434.582.1500 6 1400

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FULL-SIZE FUN, FULL-SIZE VALUE Enjoy Sea-Doo GTI watercraft style, fun power and valuable features like Intelligent Brake and Reverse (iBR) and Light and Strong Polytec Hull Material. The compact and lightweight Rotax 900 HO ACE incorporates impressive fuel economy for more time on the water and less time at the gas station with crisp acceleration and an excellent power-to-weight ratio. They’re perfect for everything from a short rip around the lake to a full day of family fun.Since its beginning in 1977, Webster

Marine has been a family owned and operated, full-service marine center on beautiful Smith Mountain Lake, VA. Boasting the largest inventory of deck boats, pontoons, and Sea-Doo watercraft in Southwest Virginia, Webster Marine offers new and pre-owned boat and Sea-Doo watercraft sales, as well as service, parts, accessories and slip rentals. Conveniently located next to Halesford Bridge, stop by and visit us today.

WebsterMarine.com | 540-297-5228 1185 Mills Road | Moneta, Virginia 24121 | Off Route 122, North of Hales Ford Bridge

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CONTENTS Smith Mountain Lake HOME 2019

46 features

COOL POOLS The latest and greatest in outdoor spaces BY NOELLE MILAM

LAKE HOUSE HOSPITALITY Delight is in the details BY RORY RHODES

LIGHT IT UP Bright ideas for lighting plans and fixtures BY CHRISTY RIPPEL

32 SHOWCASE HOMES

HUDDLESTON HIDEAWAY Ranch home is a restorative retreat BY CHARLOTTE A.F. FARLEY

PENHOOK PROJECT A legacy home at The Waterâ€™s Edge BY CHRISTY RIPPEL

LONG ISLAND LEISURE Family gathers at vacation destination BY RYAN TIPPS COVER PHOTO by Michael Patch

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Sm it h Mount a i n L ake H O M E 2019

DESIGN

28 THE HOME BAR

Elements and essentials

BY MARISSA HERMANSON

55 CLOSET SOLUTIONS

Don’t waste your space BY SLOANE LUCAS

77 DOCK TALK

Maximizing waterfront features BY JERRY HALE

104 THROW PILLOWS

104

Small size, big impact BY NOELLE MILAM

IMPROVE 58 DECK IT OUT

From functional to fabulous BY JANE RENNYSON

107 BUG OFF

¡Adios insects!

BY JESSIE THOMPSON

112 CLEANING FOR COMPANY

Streamlining for spit-spot results BY KATHERINE FULGHUM KNOPF

GARDEN

42 THE RIGHT PATH

Walkways by the water BY KATHARINE PALJUG

74 A TASTE OF SUMMER

Sweet, tangy, tasty tomatoes BY SLOANE LUCAS

89 EASY ANNUALS

Hot tips for seasonal color BY BECKY CALVERT

LIVE

52 CULINARY CORNER

Outdoor pizza

BY MARSHA GALE

86 CLASSIC COCKTAILS

Recipes for summer sipping BY SLOANE LUCAS

110 FARMERS MARKETS

Local produce around the lake BY MEGAN JANSEN 14

52 S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

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EDITOR’S note People come to Smith Mountain Lake because it offers an uncommon quality of life, one that both relaxes and recharges. Living here brings people together— friends, family, neighbors around the cove. There are certainly solitary pleasures… a morning at a secret fishing hole, an afternoon reading on the dock, listening to the crickets at night… but there are many more things to do together. We gather around activities such as boating and various water sports, and at spots like the kitchen, the bar, the fire pit, the deck, and the dock. The cornerstone of lake life is getting outside, and this issue of HOME focuses on making the most of it. Our featured homes and our story about pools and exterior spaces reveal how lakeside residents have maximized their outdoor living options. We’ve got suggestions and solutions for decks, pathways, and docks, as well as handy tips on easy annuals and keeping bugs at bay. Enjoy la dolce vita with summer cocktails and pizza on the grill—we’ll tell you how! And make the most of the season’s bounty by growing your own sun-ripened tomatoes, and shopping at local outdoor markets. When guests come to call, our room-by-room guide and quick cleaning tips will ensure a warm and comfortable welcome. Optimizing closet space is always a worthy endeavor, and never more so than when hosting visitors and managing extra linens and towels—check out our pointers. Learn how to create and stock a home bar, whether custom build or a space-saving bar cart. And finally, could your home’s lighting plan use an update,

or are you planning one from scratch? Our guide offers advice from an interior designer and how to achieve best results. As always, Smith Mountain Lake HOME magazine sources local experts to bring you inspiration and information on a variety of area trends and resources. Our goal is to help you savor your time here, whether it’s weekends or all year long. Enjoy the beauty around us and the delights of the season! — Rory Rhodes, Editor rory@westwillowpublishing.com

at area stores: Kroger Food Lion White House Corner

Look for the book...

at Welcome Centers: Smith Mountain Lake Bedford

S ee the company

who wrote the book, whether buying or selling.

at Marinas: Mitchell’s Point Parkway Virginia DARE .......................... Online at LakeRetreat.com

Lake Retreat Properties, Inc

540.297.6002 • 800.421.6980 6760 White House Road Huddleston, VA 24104

Jeanette M. Childress, Broker 540.309.6002

Wil Childress, Associate Broker 540.312.7002

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Huge selection of AMERICAN MADE outdoor furniture that lasts.

HOME SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

2019 ANNUAL EDITION PUBLISHER Julie Pierce EDITOR Rory Rhodes ART DIRECTOR Edwana Coleman

Kaleen Outdoor Rugs • Kingsley Bate • Lloyd Flanders Meadow Craft • Treasure Garden • Whitecraft • Woodard Free Delivery to Smith Mountain Lake /bettersofas 4919 Grandin Road, Roanoke County 540.400.6334 • bettersofasroanoke.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Becky Calvert Charlotte A.F. Farley Marsha Gale Jerry Hale Marissa Hermanson Megan Jansen Katherine Fulghum Knopf Sloane Lucas Noelle Milam Katharine Paljug Jane Rennyson Christy Rippel Jessie Thompson Ryan Tipps PHOTOGRAPHERS Jerry Hale Jared Hall Michael Patch Craig Shaffer GRAPHIC ARTIST Donna Collins

OPERATIONS MANAGER Colleen Miller ADVERTISING SALES Kirsten Morey Becker Julia Belvin Anne Marie Poore CONTACT

Smith Mountain Lake HOME is published annually by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or email sales@smlhomemagazine.com. To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Smith Mountain Lake HOME at info@smlhomemagazine.com.

WEST WILLOW PUBLISHING GROUP, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com

Serving Smith Mountain Lake, Southwest & Central VA Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm All other times by appointment only

(540) 719-1431 | www.bydesigninteriorsofva.com 12925 Booker T Washington Hwy, Suite 102, Hardy, VA 24101 1 8

Copyright 2019 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned. As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

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PUBLISHER’S note One of the many pleasures of owning a Smith Mountain Lake home is having a place for making memories with family and friends. Of course, all that’s really required for good times is the company of others, but a well-planned, aestheticallypleasing and comfortable space can elevate your gatherings, adding an element of warm hospitality. In this 2019 issue of Smith Mountain Lake HOME we offer fresh ideas to elevate any home from ordinary to warm and inviting. All of us at HOME magazine strive to be the goto resource to provide inspiration to SML homeowners. We showcase local style and connect you with the companies that can help you execute your plans and projects. There are so many talented and unique local businesses serving the Smith Mountain Lake area offering products and services to help you define your individual style and elevate your personal space.

I appreciate the contributions we’ve received from local experts and the gracious SML homeowners who have opened their homes to our readers. If you’re reading this 2019 edition then you probably have many useful and inspirational ideas yourself—we want to hear about them! We’d love to get your story ideas, hear about interesting SML homes to feature and welcome your comments on articles we’ve published. Send me a note! This year, I hope you’ll take the ideas, tips and businesses presented on these pages of Smith Mountain Lake HOME and add the element of warm hospitality to elevate your home into something special. Thanks for reading. Julie — Julie Pierce, Publisher julie@westwillowpublishing.com

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water,water everywhere

THE ALLURE OF LAKESIDE SWIMMING POOLS BY NOELLE MIL AM Life at the lake means year-round water views and the perennial attractions of boating, fishing, swimming and other water sports. Why then, you’d be forgiven for asking, would people living around 32 square miles of water choose to install a pool? According to Austin Vaughan, vice president of sales, design, and construction with National Pools in Roanoke, there are several excellent reasons that this is a popular choice. “It’s a question we get often,” he admits. “First of all, backyard pools are beautiful, they’re more convenient for entertaining, and they are often both easier and safer for families with small children.” There are many people, Vaughan points out, who love the water, but for one reason or another are intimidated by the size and depth of the lake, not to mention the fact that they cannot see the bottom. For these people, the clean, clear environment of a pool is attractive, especially when they can still enjoy the sights and sounds of life on the water. A pool makes it easier to keep an eye on small children, and the proximity to the house offers convenience and an ideal space for entertaining. For two local families, these considerations led them to enhance their waterfront lifestyle by installing stunning pools overlooking Smith Mountain Lake. 2 0

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PHOTO: MICHAEL PATCH

HEAD POOL HARDSCAPE & LANDSCAPE: CLC, Incorporated POOL: National Pools of Roanoke, Inc.

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PHOTO: RUNK AND PRATT

RUNK POOL HARDSCAPE & LANDSCAPE: Creative Outdoors POOL: National Pools of Roanoke, Inc.

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The Runks

Vickie and Brian Runk spent 13 years living at Beechwood Shores before purchasing their home on Merriman Way. The Runks fell in love with the stunning views of the Peaks of Otter from the waterfront home on a quiet cove. It was a dream-come-true location, but it lacked a pool. “We’d had a pool at Beechwood Shores and knew that as a family, we loved having one and spent a lot of time in it,” explains Vickie. “We feel like it brought us together. The pool also gave us more opportunities to be outdoors and appreciate the lake and the views.” When they first contacted Vaughan, the Runks explained their vision for a pool that felt like a natural extension of the lake. “We were looking for an ‘out of the earth’ feeling that blended naturally with the surroundings,” says Vickie. “National Pools was able to make that vision a reality.” It was a challenging job, Vaughan says. The Runks envisioned a pool with an infinity edge (a popular feature for pools at the lake) to allow for a seamless view across the open water, but the lot had a pretty steep slope. “I’d estimate that the site was 10 feet out of grade when we got there,” he recalls. “Because of that slope, we needed 140 tons of stone to give us the right grade. Add to that the geometric shape, the six-foot waterfall drop to from the infinity edge to the catch basin, the fire bowls with flowing water—it was definitely a complex job, but worth it because the Runks have one of the best views and the way their pool sits is unique.” The only way to build a pool out of the ground with these types of features is to use gunite (a sprayed mixture of cement, sand, and water). Gunite pools are custom built ‘allconcrete’ pools with a plaster interior allowing you to build to

any shape and on difficult sites. To enhance the natural feel of this pool, National Pools used a dark color plaster to make the pool water blend with the color of the lake. It is designed so that swimmers in the pool find it almost impossible to tell where the pool ends and the lake begins, and this is exactly how Vickie and Brian had pictured it. “We love the way the pool feels like a natural extension of the lake itself,” explains Vickie, “It was exactly what we wanted.” The Runks’ pool gets a lot of use all summer long, and even their grown children come home frequently to enjoy it. “When we are at the lake, we’re in the pool,” Vickie laughs. “There’s just nothing like being in the heated pool or hot tub and looking out across the lake at the view.” The family frequently entertains poolside as well, and the area is built for enjoyment. Shade can be found under large umbrellas, and ample seating is arranged artfully around the pool’s edges to enjoy the water and view. Landscaping and hardscaping was completed by Creative Outdoors, of Forest, and features ornamental grasses and easy-care shrubs, and a pool deck made of pavers that match the path to the family’s dock beyond. Another show-stopping feature the Runks incorporated are the fire bowls that sit on either side of the vanishing edge. They illuminate the pool after dark and have their own mini-waterfalls, creating a dramatic view both from the property and from the lake. “We often have boaters cruise by to look at the pool and waterfall, they always wave and say how beautiful everything is,” Vickie shares. “It just makes me so proud and pleased with the whole project.” PHOTO: RUNK AND PRATT

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The Heads

Not far away, in the Park Place neighborhood, lies the lakeside home of Meg and David Head. Originally from Lynchburg, the Heads purchased their home in 2015, with an eye to eventually retiring in a place that would be enjoyable for them and their four college-aged children to return to as they launched into their adult lives. “We were hoping to find a location where we could spend spring, summer, and fall,” Meg explains, “and also one where our kids will want to come to, and eventually bring their own families.” The idea for a pool became part of that vision. “We are all swimmers,” says Meg, “and in the summer we pretty much live in the water.” The idea of a pool appealed to the Heads because the pool’s heater would add almost a month on either end of the normal swimming season. For Meg, who finds that exercising in the pool eases the discomfort of early arthritis, the extended season was a real bonus. “I get a lot of relief from exercise,” she explains. “I love to get in and exercise in the pool. It feels great and is much easier on my body.” Not long after they purchased their lake house, the Heads contacted Chris Templeton, president of CLC, Incorporated, a design and build landscape firm out of Forest, to help them with landscaping plans for the driveway and front of the home, as well as some long-term plans that included the backyard and a pool designed by National Pools. According to Templeton, “The Heads’ goals were simple: to create an area where they could entertain the entire family—spaces where everyone could sit comfortably. To complement the pool, we created a covered area for cooking and entertaining, and a hot tub for those cool evenings.” His landscape plans incorporated the entire pool deck, plus the stunning cabana, which has become the one thing the Heads didn’t know they couldn’t live without. Though they’d planned to do the landscaping in stages, starting with the front of the house, the Heads loved the ideas so much they opted to do the whole project—pool and all. “Once we saw those amazing plans ” says Meg, “we just decided to go ahead and do everything at so we could start enjoying it.”

Of teaming with CLC, Vaughan says, “Because our company is focused on building the pool itself, it’s great when we have a terrific relationship with the landscapers. It gives the homeowners that turnkey feel they expect. CLC was great to work with and we enjoy teaming up with them.” He says that the project had “a lot going on”—the hot tub flows to the pool, which has a vanishing edge that in turn flows into the catch basin. There is also a tanning ledge, or sun shelf. “That’s another feature we are seeing a lot of requests for—it gives people an area of the pool for lounging, but they’re also excellent for very young children.” It was a big project and Vaughan admits, “I’m very proud of how it turned out.” The Heads agree. In addition to the infinity pool and sun shelf, there’s also plenty of patio seating, waterfall fire pots, and that aforementioned cabana, a popular gathering spot for the Heads and their family and friends. Complete with outdoor kitchen and bar, stacked stone fireplace (with a large-screen television for watching sports), and ample seating, it’s a piece of the poolside environment that has enhanced the family’s use of their outdoor space. “Pool cabana projects around the lake can be an absolutely gorgeous addition to an already spectacular home like the Heads’,” Templeton says, noting, “It takes careful planning to ensure that the outdoor areas flow with the house and property.” “The cabana wasn’t even something we’d initially thought of,” Meg admits. “Chris designed it, and I have to say, it has been something we have all loved. It’s a place to get out of the sun, watch football, and best of all, we can use it all but a few months of the year.” The pool and cabana have indeed brought the grown kids home. Last summer was the family’s first with the pool project completed. Sure enough, the kids came to enjoy it, and they even brought friends. “Early last fall, when my son’s college was evacuated due to the hurricanes, where do you think they came?” says Meg. “We ended up hosting 15 boys for that long weekend. They swam and hung out at the pool all day, having a great time. I was so glad that they chose to come here!” PHOTOS: MICHAEL PATCH

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Tips + trends

Both the Runk and the Head pools are heated saltwater systems, which, as Vaughan explains, are still chlorinated pools. Today’s saltwater systems simply make chlorine out of salt through a process of electrolysis. A lot of people think that salt water pools are like ocean water without the need of chlorine, however, the salt level in a pool is much lower and hardly noticeable. Traditional chlorine systems are subject to chlorine spikes and low pH which can cause skin and eye irritation. Salt pools naturally have a higher pH and tend to be softer on the skin. The major advantage with the salt system, is that you can maintain a consistent chlorine level automatically without having to manually add chlorine. This is a huge benefit for those who may not be available to monitor water chemistry on a frequent basis. Families who are not able to care for their pool regularly, particularly those who might only use their lake house periodically, should consider hiring a professional pool service, most of whom have several service plans to choose from. Besides the popular fire feature trends, both Templeton and Vaughan are seeing a profusion of advanced systems that tie a home’s outdoor electronics (pool, lighting, sound systems) together on cell phone apps. Two other important trends that will increase use and longevity of a backyard pool are heating and automatic covers. As Vaughan points out, a heated pool can extend your swimming season to six to seven months in most years. The other popular pool investment that Vaughan sees a lot of at the lake is an automatic pool cover, which extends and retracts with the turn of a key. Automatic pool

covers satisfy the barrier requirement around pools eliminating the need for view-disrupting perimeter fencing to meet code. Any SML homeowner considering a pool should do their research and engage the help of a professional pool designer/ installer and landscaper with experience building pools in a lakeside environment. Know where your underground utilities are located (and your septic tank, if you have one) and identify where your property’s setbacks are. As Vaughan points out, there are special regulations in place to protect the fragile waterfront environment, and local code inspectors can be understandably strict about these. “If you want to build a pool at Smith Mountain Lake, it would be a good idea to have your property surveyed to locate the 800 foot contour line,” he suggests. “We must stay above that 800 foot mark for construction, and this will help dictate design constraints and feasibility.” The slope of many lakeside lots can be a challenge as well. “A little rain can cause erosion, but a professional pool design/install company should be able to engineer an erosioncontrol system, minimizing the area that needs to be excavated and controlling any run-off during construction to protect water cleanliness.” Both the Heads and the Runks are thrilled with the enhancement to their lakeside lifestyles, and encourage other lake residents to consider the perks of a pool. “I think having a pool at the lake is the most relaxing thing,” says Vickie. “It’s a water feature that everyone can enjoy, especially if you aren’t a lake swimmer. It’s also a great platform for entertaining and time together as a family. I’d say, ‘Go for it!’” ✦

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DESIGN bar guide

Bottoms Up! CR E AT ING A HOM E BA R BY MARISSA HERMANSON

he bar is a crucial element to pulling off home entertaining and can make your house the coolest one on the lake. Whether you are having a big bash with your entire posse or a quiet evening at home sipping a cocktail with your spouse, the home bar can transform the way you entertain. From a simple bar cart topped with the essentials to a freestanding bar with all the trappings, there are plenty of ways to create a watering hole within your own home.

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The built-In bar

If you are looking to create a full-on cocktail lounge or pub in your home, you’ll need to install a wet bar or free-standing bar. In advance, determine where you have space and do a majority of your entertaining. Do friends and family hang out in the family room on most weekends to watch the game? Or do you have a sprawling basement that can be transformed into an entertainment hub with a saloon? If you like to entertain outdoors, will the bar be conveniently located near a deck or terrace? Before you start ordering materials and hiring workers to build your bar, if you are looking to include a sink or ice maker in your setup make sure that you have the appropriate plumbing in place. With infrastructure in mind, install your bar on a wall where pipes already exist, near the kitchen or a bathroom.

If you are having your bar designed by a kitchen designer or interior decorator, consider including restaurant-grade equipment, beer and wine taps, and other high-end equipment like ice machines and specialty beverage refrigerators with dual zones for chilling brewskis and wine. Also, consider the style and design of your bar. If you want to sip piña coladas and feel like you’re vacationing on a tropical island, create a vintage tiki bar. For the beer-drinking soccer fan, naturally you’ll gravitate towards the style and atmosphere of an Old English pub. If you are handy and looking to DIY the job, you can easily install a bar with pre-fabricated cabinets from the hardware store and then top it off with a stone slab sourced from a rock yard. Wine coolers or mini-fridges can be popped right into place with no trouble, as they are designed to fit pre-fab cabinetry.

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BAR ESSENTIALS ALCOHOL

Vodka Gin Tequila Triple Sec Rum Bourbon whiskey Scotch After-dinner liqueurs for sipping, like Port or Drambuie

ESSENTIAL MIXERS

Tonic water Soda, like ginger ale and cola Juice, like tomato and orange Grenadine Shrub (vinegar-based syrup) Citrus for garnish, like limes and lemons

BARWARE + ACCESSORIES

A tray, to arrange everything on An ice bucket and tongs Bottle openers, for wine and beer Whiskey rocks, for sipping Bourbon and Scotch A cocktail shaker Stirrers A wine decanter A wine vacuum, or stoppers for wine and Champagne

GLASSWARE

Wine glasses (red, white and stemless) Beer glasses (pints and mugs) Champagne flutes or coupes Glassware for specialty cocktails, like margaritas and martinis Lowball glasses Highball glasses A punch bowl and matching glasses, for large holiday gatherings

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Install shelving with brackets and wood slabs on the wall behind the bar as a place to show off pretty glassware and fancy alcohols. And no need to worry about tiling and grout for a bar backsplash; instead select a mirror or textured wallpaper as a backdrop. The bar cart

If you don’t have the space or don’t want to commit the time and money to installing a permanent bar, the bar cart is your best bet to create an at-home watering hole. Bar carts and cabinets have long been a mainstay in the home, usually tucked away in a cozy den or dining room, where homeowners tend to do most of their entertaining and beverage sipping. They’re also a handy choice for a covered patio or dock. You can easily repurpose furnishings into a bar setup. Carve out room in a built-in bookcase for a tray topped with alcohol decanters, a cocktail shaker, ice buckets and other beverage making tools. An old armoire that was once home to a television

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or clothing can be transformed into a place to tuck all your hooch away behind closed doors. Or consider other furnishings for your liquor setup, like a narrow console table, midcentury modern record cabinet, or antique secretary’s desk. If you are handy, strip down the furniture and refinish it for an updated look.

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Stocking the home bar

Stocking your bar is pretty intuitive, and dependent upon your setup and preferred choice of beverages. You’ll need your essential alcohols and mixers, along with the tools of the trade (think ice bucket, bottle opener and cocktail shaker). Last but not least, the appropriate glassware is important for creating proper presentation. Bottoms up! ✦

} Celebrating 60 Years

WHITT

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a happy place

WEEKEND GETAWAY OFFERS PEACE AND PLEASURE BY C H A R LOT T E A . F. FA R L E Y Photography by Craig Shaffer

own a shaded lane, away from the lively festivities of Smith Mountain Lake State Park and the Kings Point Pub, a sprawling ranch with gray shingles overlooks a serene cove. Small solar lamps light the curved stone pathway lined by planters brimming with seasonal color; a cheery garden flag welcomes guests. It’s a delightful picture and one that would make anyone fall in love with lakeside living. Indeed, Chris Mabry has always loved Smith Mountain Lake and once owned property in the area. It was his desire to have his own weekend spot at the lake again that ultimately drove him to find his ideal SML home. He began his search on the Huddleston side of the lake for convenience—it’s only a thirtyminute drive to Huddleston from his primary residence in Forest. It wasn’t long before Chris found himself at the closing table in March 2017 to finalize the purchase of his new place.

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The Mabry home is a weekend retreat where the focus is firmly on outdoor fun and relaxation.

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A LARGE OPEN-CONCEPT SPACE OFFERING A 180-DEGREE VIEW OF THE COVE IS THE HUB OF FAMILY LIFE INDOORS. DRESSED IN THE CLASSICALLY NAUTICAL PALETTE OF RED, WHITE, AND BLUE, CHRIS AND DEBBIE’S THOUGHTFUL FURNISHINGS ALL POINT TO RELAXATION IN THIS LAKESIDE LOCALE.

Filled with natural light, waterfront scenes, and small luxuries, it seemed almost perfect; still, Chris saw ways to add his own touches and upgrade the property. One added bonus of buying off-season included beating the summer rush to improve landscaping. He enlisted the services of the Southern Landscape Group to enhance his new home’s landscaping and hardscaping. He also contracted Floyd Enterprises to complete the unfinished portions of the lower level, along with updates to the screened porch, interior flooring, and dock work. Chris didn’t have to dread the seemingly common waiting period between construction and completion; he was able to enjoy his new home immediately. “None of the renovations at the time were upstairs,” he explains, since most of them were outdoor or basement improvements. He lucked out: all of his contractors completed the work by Memorial Day. “It was amazing because it rained every day in May but two that year—I know that for a fact!” he laughs. “Southern Landscaping came the week before Memorial Day and sodded everything to where I had a perfect yard for Memorial Day weekend.” Chris and his girlfriend Debbie come to the lake every weekend. They entertain Debbie’s son along with Chris’ three grown daughters and four grandchildren: Mason, Jensen, Izzy, and Myles. Two of his children live in the local area and one lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. “I also have my managers up a couple of times a year,” he adds. With six bedrooms and five and a half baths, the house provides plenty of room for a growing family as well as friends and colleagues. Guests feel welcome here as soon as they walk through the door. A framed set of rules hangs over a cherry red console, inviting guests to “Wake up late, go on a hike, catch a fish, take a nap, catch fireflies, and wish on stars,” ultimately setting the tone for this casually elegant and traditional lake house. A few steps to the right, a large openconcept space offers a 180-degree view of the cove. Drenched in sunshine, this is the hub of family life indoors. Dressed in the classically nautical palette of red, white, and blue, Chris and Debbie’s thoughtful furnishings all point to relaxation in this lakeside locale. The den features a 55-inch flat screen TV anchored above a white brick gas log fireplace; striped easy chairs and sofas gather on a cabana-striped rug and provide seating for watching the game or cozying up by the fire. Throw pillows and wall decor add to the coastal motif, and several sliding doors take advantage of the stunning scenery as well as facilitate the ease of indooroutdoor living.

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An openconcept gourmet kitchen leads to a screened porch with adjacent deck, offering plenty of space for dining al fresco.

While kitchen remodels are among the most popular home improvement projects, Chris left the gourmet kitchen as it was, praising the prior homeowner’s design and smart use of space. “This is the coolest spice rack ever!” Chris says with a smile on his face as he pulls open a narrow vertical spice drawer beside the stove. He moves over to the island: “This is fantastic—and it’s got storage all around it.” With a wine refrigerator and drawers galore, the five-by-nine island provides ample storage. It also serves as a gathering spot and even as an optional dining area, complete with a few red leather roll-top chairs. “We will eat here if it’s just a couple of us,” he says. The kitchen displays decorative details that pertain to the surroundings: the hardware and molding of the glazed antique white cabinets both contain a design element reminiscent of a nautical rope. If you needed another reminder of your whereabouts, you could simply look out the kitchen’s bay window to take in pristine mountain lake vistas. “If you look straight ahead,” Chris points out, “you’ll see Bernard’s Landing off in the distance.” The screened porch is accessed right from the kitchen. To improve the space, Chris replaced the old indoor-outdoor carpet with new tile, refinished the ceiling, and added air conditioners. “We spend S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

more time on the screened porch. It’s nice and comfy out here.” To the right of the porch is a deck with built-in seating; to the left, a bistro-like area with umbrellas over round tables for dining al fresco. Back inside, a hallway with built-in cabinets connects the family room to the sleeping quarters. While Debbie did most of the decorating (“She would love to own her own decorating company one day, and I think she could really do it!” Chris says enthusiastically), he outfitted the hallway himself. Chris shopped locally for SML-inspired finds, like a model ship, anchors, and oars from Cottage Gate. Framed family photos with happy lake memories rest above the cabinets that store towels, boat bags, sunscreen—everything you might need for enjoying the lake.

Down the hall are several guest rooms and bathrooms. One is especially for Debbie’s son, complete with miniature sailboats and a white daybed fitted with navy and crimson plaid bedding. Another guest room is large enough to accommodate six overnight guests, with three queen-sized beds. The room’s furnishings nod to those of a lakeside cottage, with beds trimmed in bead board, charming life preservers, and paddles on the walls. “We use this room whenever we have company,” says Chris. The master suite at the end of the hallway affords brilliant lakefront views. You won’t find any window treatments here: “We just wanted to have that view,” Chris explains. He and Debbie painted the walls a pale shade of aqua to connect the inside and outside spaces. With a gas log fireplace and a few club chairs,

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The master suite is painted a serene aqua and affords brilliant lakefront views.

this inviting space offers calm and respite. Although the property features two master suites (one on each level), Chris and Debbie chose the upstairs suite for its hisand-hers closet that provides ample storage space, a window, and even a custom builtin storage trunk. A room of comparable size, style, and comfort is just below on the lower level. Downstairs, the word “basement” seems like a misnomer: it is clean, bright, and fresh thanks to plenty of windows and new wood tile from T&K Tileworx in Lynchburg. Abundant light streams through several windows, lightening the downstairs master suite. A fresh palette of coral and navy looks crisp against a white bed, and an en-suite bathroom provides privacy. A major renovation to this level included the creation of a new bedroom and bathroom, along with the installation of a new lower patio. Mabry explains: “This area was an old storage unit with concrete floors, so we put another bedroom in here, and it connects to a bathroom.” The bedroom provides walkout access to the new patio. Originally just a storage area for lawn mowers and yard equipment, the patio now features a chat area with a loveseat, couch, two club chairs, and a little ottoman, adorned in colorful striped cushions from Tropicasual in Myrtle Beach. “All of our outdoor furniture came from Tropicasual,” he says. Beyond lies an extension of the patio with six cedar Adirondack chairs gathered around a fire pit. Overlooking the lake, it’s the kind of place Chris and his family can enjoy yearround. Chris couldn’t be happier with his new lake home. “I like the house better, and I love the dock so much more. It’s huge! This is one of the biggest docks on the lake, and that was such a draw for me,” he explains. In fact, the property actually 38

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The homeâ€™s exterior features a fire pit and two docks. The main dock boasts a refrigerator, Wi-Fi, sound system, and 55-inch TV.

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has two docks. “It’s a cool little feature of the land— somehow, some way, it wound up with two docks on it.” The dock that shelters the pontoon boat received necessary structural upgrades to the ceiling and support poles. Chris also added creature comforts like a refrigerator, Wi-Fi, a Sonos sound system, and a 55-inch TV to the main boathouse. The boathouse area—along with the pier and multiple decks, docks, and patios—brings the feeling of a resort to the Mabry home. With aqua blue Adirondack chairs and tables to hold frosty drinks, all-weather wicker sofas, colorful plants, and views of a lush green backyard, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. “We do entertain a lot,” he says, pointing towards the large grill on the patio (he loves to grill filets). “And what we do the most here is on the water,” referencing the multiple floats and the pontoon boat. He adds that he and his family go out on the pontoon boat “every single time” they come to the lake. For some, it’s a dream come true to live in a resort-like setting, to feel as if they are ‘on vacation’ every day. Chris Mabry, however, intends to keep his home as a weekend getaway. “I have no intention of ever living here full-time, year-round, because this is my happy place where all the stress goes away,” he says. “I don’t want it ever to become ‘home’ where you have to bring all your worries, you know. I want it to be my happy place forever.” ✦

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GARDEN hardscapes PHOTO: SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

pathways

WHAT TO KNOW FOR LAKESIDE FOOTPATHS BY K AT H A R I N E PA L J U G

The pathways around your home aren’t just about getting from one point to another. They can and should be a beautiful part of your property’s design. But with all the options out there, it can be hard to decide exactly what the best choice for your home and lifestyle is. We talked to local experts to get their advice on creating steps and pathways that are safe, durable, and—of course— attractive. 42

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Make a plan

Before beginning any landscape project, set aside time to talk with your designer. Their experience is invaluable for making the right decisions for your property, style, and budget. “I personally spend a lot of my time in the planning and designing phase of the project,” says Mark Maslow, owner and president of Southern Landscape Group. “Often we get clients asking for a certain feature or material. After better understanding the intended use, sometimes we find… what they want is not the best solution.” Chris Templeton, president of local landscape design firm CLC Inc., says that in addition to the aesthetics, safety and cost are the major elements driving many decisions when it comes to pathways and steps around lake properties. “The main challenge is trying to figure out a way for people to safely get from their house, which is often very elevated, down to the water level.” But, he adds, it’s also important to consider how you want to use your property so you don’t find yourself redoing costly design decisions. If, for example, you might later add a pool or a space for children to play, let your designer know so they can lay out pathways with those elements in mind. Understand the cost

No matter what your overall budget is, it’s important to understand the costs of the individual elements you choose. Your designer should be able to suggest multiple options to achieve your preferred look at different price points. They can also help you find less expensive sources for materials, says Maslow, who recommends looking for deals from local stone yards that are trying to liquidate extra stock.

You also need to consider the cost of maintaining or replacing your walkways in the future. “Depending on the type of pathway, you may expect some maintenance from it,” cautions Maslow. A pathway made of pavers, for example, may have a higher upfront cost, but will need minimal maintenance aside from powerwashing every few years. Wood, by contrast, is a choice Maslow is glad to see fading from popularity, because homeowners have realized it’s a poor investment. “Wood rots, it gives you splinters, and it requires a lot of maintenance,” says Maslow. “While inexpensive to install initially, the maintenance costs can be overwhelming.” Keep your family safe

No matter your age and physical ability, it’s important to create paths that allow you to move safely. Sloped paths are harder to walk down than steps, and narrow pathways can be awkward for more than one person at a time. To make the best use of your property, Maslow recommends keeping pathways at least 54 inches wide and using a combination of flat paths and stairs. Another important safety factor, and one that many homeowners overlook, is good lighting. If you install outdoor lighting next to all your pathways, especially on slopes or by steps, you’ll be able to use your property at any time of the day or night. Choose materials

Many factors go into choosing materials for steps and pathways, including style, durability, safety, and cost. Natural stone: Natural stone can be expensive, but it is one of the most beautiful and popular choices around the lake. You

PHOTO: SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

PHOTO: CLC, INC.

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PHOTOS: SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

can make whole paths and stairs out of natural stone, or sink individual stepping stones into grass to create a less expensive— but still beautiful—walkway. It is durable, safe to walk on, and requires almost no maintenance. Travertine: A type of natural limestone, travertine is a favorite for pavers and steps that don’t get hot under bare feet in the summer. Travertine comes in a variety of earth-tone colors and holds up well on slopes. It is a mid-range option for pathways, requires little maintenance, and is unlikely to break over time because it flexes with the ground. Grass pavers: Made of a honeycomb base planted with grass, these pavers are a good option for flat surfaces that get 4 4

heavy traffic. They are inexpensive and create a beautiful, natural look. However, they can be dangerous on slopes, especially after rain or early in the morning, when the wet grass makes it easy to slip. Gravel: Gravel is a budget-friendly option for pathways around your lake home and can cover a large area of ground for very little cost. However, it can make for treacherous paths on hills and is often unsafe for older visitors who have a hard time moving without assistance. Gravel in sloped pathways can be washed away by heavy rain and needs to be replaced regularly. Wood: Wood has a low up-front cost for stairs and pathways around the lake; however, wood walkways need to be replaced S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

every few years, as they can splinter and rot. Wood steps and rails last longer but still need to be replaced periodically to stay safe. Concrete: Concrete pathways and steps are durable on slopes, and concrete paths are a budget-friendly option if you are planning to use a golf cart to get down to the lake. Since concrete doesn’t flex with the ground, it will eventually crack and need to be replaced. Depending on the slope of your property, bringing in the equipment to pour concrete may be difficult. Stamped concrete pavers mimic the look of natural stone for much less, but require upkeep and resealing. Plan for retirement

One change that both designers are noticing around the lake is a different kind of planning for the future. “Today, we are seeing a need to plan for our clients to age at their lake home,” explains Maslow. “In the past we may have just installed a nice stone step path… Now, we

are seeing clients who plan to retire in their lake home and want a smoother and more gentle access to the dock.” If you hope to retire by the lake, ask your designer to make paths wide enough to accommodate a golf cart or to create a path that meanders down the slope rather than building stairs. It’s also smart to revisit your design and make small, regular changes, says Templeton. “Five years is typically how often we recommend looking at the overall plan,” he explains. “We can design it now, but we may have to tweak it because your physical ability may change, or you may have kids or grandkids visiting.”

PHOTO: CLC, INC.

One of the main draws of living in this beautiful area is, after all, to enjoy it. The right pathways and steps will allow you and your family to make the most out of your property for years to come. ✦ PHOTO: CLC, INC.

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ready for guests Ensuring a Memorable Visit BY RORY RHODE S

IT’S A FACT OF LIFE THAT AT THE LAKE, YOU’RE GOING TO HAVE COMPANY. Ensuring that your home is comfortable and stocked for guests is the mark of a savvy and seasoned host, and will free everyone to relax and enjoy each other’s company. From the front door to the dock, there are thoughtful things you can do throughout to welcome friends and family; just a few details here and there are all it takes for visitors to feel at home.

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Out front

Is your address clearly visible from the road for folks arriving by car? A sign with your house number—and your surname, if you’re up for it—assures visitors they’re at the right spot. Make sure there’s space for guests to park, and if they’ll be arriving at night, don’t forget lighting. A solar light by the street, a well-lit parking pad, and walkway lights to the door add safety and eliminate confusion. Entry

A home’s entrance almost always becomes a drop zone, so make it more than just a pretty pass-through—make it functional. A bench to place bags with space beneath for shoes, a row of coat hooks, a table with baskets underneath—anything you can do here that provides spots for stuff will be practical and appreciated. Space permitting, dress it up with a vase of flowers, wall art, an unusual mirror or light fixture, or an eye-catching area rug. Balancing style with function will make this space the perfect introduction to your home. Kitchen

Since the kitchen is the center of most every home, it’s especially important to make visitors feel comfortable here. Show them where things are kept in the cupboards and invite them to help themselves. Even better, keep some items within sight on a counter or table so that guests don’t have to go rooting through lots of drawers and cabinets when they need something. A side table or section of countertop might offer plates and utensils, a coffee station set up with sugar, honey, and tea packets, a plate of fruit, or a basket of easy-to-grab munchies. Show guests how the coffee machine works, and stock the fridge with various snacks and drinks. A couple of final thoughts for guest prep in the kitchen: Melamine dishes and glassware can go from indoors to outdoors without a worry, and chilled Champagne signals that the visit is an event to celebrate. Family room/living area

Enough seating to accommodate everyone is essential, but don’t forget other details. Is there a place to rest drinks, with coasters? Cozy throws for cooler temperatures? Cushions can certainly add comfort, but make sure there’s room to sit among the throw pillows—they shouldn’t overwhelm the seating surface. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 47

Thoughtful touches in the living area might include a selection of books, games, puzzles, and movies on shelves. For the TV, a channel guide and any pertinent written instructions for the entertainment system are always helpful. You might even include a couple of extra tidbits, such as Wi-Fi information, or how to operate a gas fireplace. Perhaps a guestbook, in case anyone wants to jot down a memory or funny anecdote. Powder room

A powder room that is well stocked with necessary supplies ensures that no one need come to you with a request. Make sure your hand towels and soaps are clearly meant for use versus display—many guests are afraid to use the special shell-shaped soap and the tray of fancy paper hand towels! Hand lotion is a nice touch.

Have extra blankets available for colder months, especially if guest rooms are in the lower level of the home. Conversely, top floor rooms can get pretty warm, especially in summer, so a ceiling fan or oscillating fan will ensure everyone is comfortable. There are plenty of other considerate touches—a table lamp, clock, and water carafe on the nightstand, curtains or blinds to filter early morning light, a full length mirror, and electronic conveniences like access to outlets and an extension cord. For kids’ rooms, a simple plug-in nightlight is invaluable. Niceties aside, the main thing many guests appreciate is space to put their own stuff. A luggage rack or bench, a bit of closet and drawer space, and especially some open countertop is welcome. Declutter wherever possible so that guests can unpack their bags. Guest bath

Guest room

Having inviting guest quarters for overnight visitors is the most important hospitality you can provide, and a bit of thoughtfulness and effort here goes a long way. A comfortable bed with fresh linens, and ample pillows and blankets is a must.

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As with the guest room, a bit of open space here is also helpful. Room for toiletries on either a counter or shelf is appreciated. A basket of bath supplies and even some basic items like toothbrushes (stash those dentist freebies here) are great to have on hand in case they’re needed. One thing that’s vital at the lake

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is a place to hang wet swimwear and towels. A bank of hooks on open wall space will help avoid piles of soggy belongings, in addition to holding fluffy bath towels. You really can’t have enough hanging space for gear when water is near, so err on the side of abundance, if possible. Other handy items to include are a hair dryer and nightlight. Don’t forget an easy-to-dry bathmat. Back door

Like the front entry, any door leading to the lake is bound to be a bit of a drop zone. It’s a great spot for a basket of beach towels, and a couple of empty totes for transporting gear down to the dock. It’s also another smart spot for some hooks, since wet towels are bound to turn up after the fun’s over. Chalkboard labels or color-coded hooks help keep everyone’s items in order for reuse. Deck + dock

When weather permits, you’ll want to take as many meals as possible outside, so a good outdoor dining set up is key. Shade, view, available space and convenient location will all be factors in choosing the best spot for your al fresco meals. Trays and baskets will help ferry food and necessities from kitchen or grill to table and back again. In addition to a place for meals, comfortable chairs offer a pleasant spot to enjoy water views, the sunset, a fire, or the evening stars. Portable speakers are a great way to share a favorite playlist and set the mood—remember though that sound carries over water and may be louder across the cove than you realize. Smith Mountain Lake is both a retreat and community, so do be mindful of neighbors when turning on the tunes.

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If you’re a regular down at the dock, you should expect some tie-up visitors from time to time. An identifying marker or feature on the dock is handy for guiding guests to their destination, and a mini fridge or cooler stocked with refreshments makes a fine welcome. It’s a good idea to keep a bucket of lakeside amenities such as sunscreen, bug spray, visors, and a first aid kit on hand in the dock house, along with a supply of towels. Extra life vests and fishing supplies are useful if space permits. Water toys like noodles, novelty floats, paddleboards and kayaks provide entertainment for all ages. Have I mentioned towel hooks? Any space you can find to hang towels will help save them being draped over upholstered chairs and other spots you might prefer to keep clear. Boat cleats make good towel hooks—either individually on a post, or in a row attached to painted boards, for a nautical look. For evenings, lighting adds both safety and ambience. A string of solar lights, a couple of hurricane lanterns, or some low wattage built-ins lining the walkways and steps are all attractive ways to creative a guiding glow. Using LED bulbs, which don’t emit UV rays, will attract fewer bugs. For cooler nights, a basket of throw blankets will come in handy. And finally, outdoor games are a great lakeside activity for when company comes. Cornhole, ladder toss, croquet, bocce ball, a backyard putting green—even an oversized game of checkers or Connect Four—provide easy entertainment for landlubbers or anyone taking a break from water activities. Thoughtful details can make a big difference in the impression you give your guests and the memories you experience together. Above all, a warm and easygoing attitude will let your guests know that your home is a place to relax, make memories, and enjoy the unique offerings of life at Smith Mountain Lake. ✦

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LIVE culinary corner

Buon Appetito!

PIZZA ON THE PATIO BY MARSHA GALE

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We all know the best pizzas are made in the hottest ovens, but as the temperature rises outside, many of us prefer not to heat up our kitchens. A fancy brick oven is not required to make a tasty pie. A grill, a Green Egg, or a Pizza Kettle can produce delicious pizzas with crisp crusts and a bit of smoky char. Making pizza on the patio is great for entertaining. The hosts can mingle with guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen, and everyone can be involved. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a party for 10, making your own pizza is just plain fun. You can make dinner with wine glasses in hand, and everyone can create their favorite combinations. The key to really good pizza is of course, the crust. Pizza dough can be purchased from a pizza parlor or grocery store, or you can easily make your own. I’ve experimented with several recipes, and I love the versatility of this one by Faith Durand at The Kitchn. It gives you the option of making pizza with only a short rise time for the dough, or making the dough ahead and refrigerating it up to three days, or even freezing it for later use.

PIZZA DOUGH (makes 8 small pizzas)

1 2/3 cups water 1 to 2 teaspoons active dry or instant yeast * ½ teaspoon sugar ¼ cup olive oil 5 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons salt * If you want to use the pizza dough that same day, use 2 teaspoons yeast. If you are going to let the dough rise overnight, use 1 teaspoon yeast.

A side note about using yeast—for some reason, lots of people are terrified by it. Don’t be, it really is simple. The temperature of the water is important—too hot and the yeast dies, too cold and it doesn’t activate. 110 degrees is recommended, but don’t worry if you don’t have a thermometer. Run your tap until the water feels warm, then bump it up until it feels hot, but not hot enough to wash dishes with. That’s your sweet spot. Mix the water and yeast together in the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl. Add the ½ teaspoon sugar and stir. (The sugar feeds the yeast and speeds up the process.) Let stand for a few minutes until the yeast is dissolved and starts to foam. This may take five to 15 minutes depending on how warm your kitchen is. Stir the oil into the yeast mixture, then add the flour and salt. Mix with a spatula until a shaggy, floury dough is formed.

Kneed the dough on low speed with a dough hook for five to seven minutes, or knead by hand on the counter for six to 8 minutes. When kneaded, the dough should form a smooth ball, feel smooth to the touch, and spring slowly back when poked. Use a knife to cut the dough into 8 lumps. Grease a baking pan lightly with olive oil. Place the dough balls in the pan and turn them over so they are coated with oil. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.

To make pizza the same day

Let the dough rise at room temperature for 1 to 1 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in bulk. At this point the dough can be used immediately, or refrigerated or frozen for later use.

To make pizza the next day (or later)

Place the covered pan immediately in the refrigerator and let it rise slowly overnight or up to 24 hours. Before making the pizza, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least one hour.

To grill the pizza

Preheat your gas grill with all the burners on high for 10 to 15 minutes. (Alternatively, start a charcoal grill.) Once heated, turn off or lower half the burners, creating an area of direct heat and an area of indirect heat. (If using a charcoal grill, create the same areas by banking the charcoal.) Set up a workspace near the grill with space for shaping the pizza and bowls with sauce and toppings. Working with one piece at a time, pull and stretch a dough ball in your hands into a round. Once it becomes large, drape it over your fists to continue stretching it into a large, thin round. Or you can also roll or pat it into a rustic oblong shape. Aim for about ¼-inch thick. I like to do it directly on a lightly floured pizza paddle for ease. Brush dough with about two teaspoons of olive oil. Flip the shaped pizza dough onto the grill over the direct heat and close the grill. Once the crust looks set, turn it over. This should take about two minutes. Remember every grill is different, so time can vary. Use tongs to flip the crust over and move it to the indirect heat. Quickly spread it with sauce and then a thin layer of toppings over top. Don’t overdo the toppings as this will interfere with it cooking quickly and thoroughly. Close the grill and cook until the toppings are warmed through and the cheese is melted, another two to three minutes. Again, times will vary. If pizza smells like it is scorching, rotate it into a cooler spot.

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Slide the finished pizza onto a cutting board. Cut the pizza into slices and serve. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough; as you get more practice, you can start a second pizza over direct heat while the first pizza is finishing over indirect heat. If you prefer thin and crispy pizza, you can roll your dough out thinner and use a pizza stone. Just make sure to place the stone on the grill before heating. This will ensure it is as hot as the grill and also prevents it from cracking. If your dough is too thin, it has a tendency to fall through the grates.

PIZZA SAUCE

My favorite red sauce for pizza is canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand and spread in a thin layer on the crust. It’s light and fresh and tastes like Italy! Sprinkle with salt and pepper and you’re ready for the toppings. However, if you want more of a “sauce,” your local market has many choices in jars, cans, or freshly made in the deli. Pick one you like and keep it simple.

TOPPINGS

The flavor combinations are only limited by your imagination. It’s nice to have a variety of ingredients so everyone can choose their favorites. Just remember to top your pizza lightly so it cooks properly. Heavy pizzas tend to have soggy crust. These are some of my family’s favorite topping combinations…

Vegetarian

Green bell pepper Chopped or caramelized onion Sliced fresh mushrooms Pitted and sliced Castelvetrano olives Mozzarella Parmesan

Classic Margarita

Grated Parmesan Fresh mozzarella, sliced Fresh basil leaves, shredded

Sausage and onion

Browned and drained sweet Italian sausage, crumbled Sliced onion Ricotta—small dollops scattered across the pizza Shredded mozzarella Fresh basil leaves, shredded

Grilled peach and prosciutto Olive oil Peaches, nectarines or plums Prosciutto Fresh thyme Burrata cheese or fresh mozzarella

Brush peach halves with olive oil and grill until char marks show, cool and slice. Brush a thin layer of olive oil on pizza crust instead of red sauce. Tear pieces of prosciutto and scatter over crust, add peaches, fresh thyme leaves and cheese. ✦ 5 4

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DESIGN closets

creative closets MAXIMIZING SPARE SPACE BY S LOA N E LU C A S

Closet space is always scarce. No matter how much you think you have, you can always use moreâ€”especially at the lake, where beach towels and guest linens can take up a lot of real estate. But with a few changes and updates, you may be able to press every last square foot into service to maximize your storage options. smlhomemaga zine .com 55

Existing space

Built-ins

Take a good look at your closets and ask yourself if you are really using the space to its full advantage. Are there large areas of white wall space with nothing on it? Are you using all the space up to the ceiling? How about the floor—is there space above your shoes that could be better utilized? If you have the means, one of the best ways to maximize your space is to invest in a professionally designed and installed closet system. There is a range of prices from semi-DIY to fully customized that will ensure no square inch goes to waste. Begin by checking your local area for quality closet designers and call for a consultation. They can share ideas and price out a revamp of your space. Alternatively, stock storage systems (like Elfa from The Container Store) are available online or from the local big box store, and can be installed either professionally or DIY to transform a mediocre closet into a fantastic wardrobing space. In addition to standard clothing closets, you may be able to convert additional space for a more needed use. Bathroom closets meant for toiletries can become handy linen closets for guests, with decorative baskets for holding washcloths and hand towels. Or make closets serve two purposes. Use the shelves for linens and add hanging door racks for soaps, and tuck smaller bins between towels for other toiletries. Search local stores for creative storage products. Try wire racks that slip under existing shelves so you can utilize the additional space. Add risers and stackable shelves to lower cabinets to create more tiered storage. Drawer organizers can be used in bathrooms to help contain clutter—especially if you have deep drawers where you can add another tray.

If your house lacks closets, you can invest in built-in cabinetry to create elegant and seamless storage. That could be building out a unit against a guest room wall to store clothing and linens, while still leaving room for a mounted TV to create a media room when guests aren’t visiting. Or it could be creating built-in cabinets and drawers against a bedroom wall to store clothes. As long as you have suitable wall space and the funds, you can hire local craftsman to build out custom storage that will blend right into your home. Can you cut a hole in a wall and take some space from a garage or other empty space on the other side of the wall? One area that is often available is under the stairs, where drywall can be removed, and shelves and doors can be built right in. You can also build around a large window, installing shelving and cabinets on either side, and adding shelving under the window, or even a bench, which can be both a reading nook and hidden storage. Entryways may provide some unused space that can be repurposed for storage, including building a bench with hooks and shelving to store bags and other daily use items. And of course basements often have an area where built-ins can be added. If custom builds are not in the budget, you can sometimes approximate the look and feel of custom closets with large-scale furniture and storage options from retailers (such as IKEA) that will allow you to purchase a bank of identical closed storage shelves that can be attached to a wall for safety. The uniform appearance can give the look of custom cabinetry for far less.

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Bins + baskets

If you want the storage without the permanence of built-in or attached cabinets, consider purchasing furniture that doubles as creative storage. In bedrooms, you can buy armoires and wardrobes to hold clothes and other items, which allow you to move them around if you redecorate. Shelving units—especially ones with square, box-like openings—can be fitted with decorative baskets to store linens and towels. You can also use galvanized steel tubs or canvascovered storage boxes for a different feel, depending on your decor. These are especially useful in guest rooms and dens, where you may need to tidy fast and keep things looking crisp and uniform. You can also achieve a great design look with wall-mounted shelves, taking them all the way to the ceiling to maximize that vertical space. Place multiple shelves in unused or underutilized corners or nooks to create a floating storage unit that doesn’t take up floor space.

Sometimes it’s not about long-term storage, but short-term solutions that help you contain your daily mess. Can you install a bank of hooks near an entrance to hang purses, coats and keys? That will help keep the clutter controlled. For off-season storage, definitely maximize rough attic space with plastic bins to keep clothing and other items clean and stacked. You may also be able to better leverage your garage or basement, especially with storage racks mounted to the ceiling. You can use sturdy, airtight plastic bins to store everything from clothing and seasonal decor to luggage and lake gear. With a variety of ideas and options for storage, ranging in price from the higher-end of custom builds to easy-peasy solutions from your local hardware store, there’s no reason not to maximize your storage. All it takes is some creativity and a commitment to making your home as organized as possible. ✦

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IMPROVE decks PHOTO: SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

TH E D ETAI LS O F

DECKING

DESIGN, CONSTRUCT, IMPROVE & ENJOY! BY JANE RENNYSON

If you are going to invest in a house on the lake, then most likely you are going to want a deck overlooking that gorgeous water; a place to enjoy the sunrise, the sunset and everything that happens in between. Many of the decisions about your new deck will depend on the house and the space with which you have to work. But whether you are starting from scratch or adding upgrades to an existing deck, there are many ways you can take your deck from functional to fabulous. 5 8

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PHOTO: SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

PHOTO: VINYL PORCH RAIL COMPANY

Enlist an expert

Even though you may have an idea of what you want in a new deck or how you want to improve what already exists on your house, it is recommended that you consult an expert. Mark Maslow of Southern Landscape Designs has great advice if you are starting a deck project. He recommends finding someone who has completed at least 20 to 30 projects. “Work with an experienced contractor who has the capability to design and plan your space. A great deck designer can help you with shape, flow of traffic and use of space,” he says. A qualified professional will also be able to help you with improvements on an existing deck. They will be able to evaluate what you like and what you don’t

like and make changes based on how you want to use the space in the future. Also, building codes may have changed since your deck was built, and a knowledgeable contractor will be sure to keep things up to code. Choose your materials

One of the first decisions you will need to make regarding your deck is what type of material to use. A classic choice that is also budget friendly is natural wood. The most cost effective choice in natural wood is pressure treated wood. It can be stained virtually any color and will last about ten to fifteen years with proper care. That care includes power washing, staining and sealing your

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Fabulous Finds

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deck annually. Maslow recommends using two-inch by six-inch boards, which are sturdy and will hold up better over time than a thinner board. The main drawback to using pressure treated wood is that it contains moisture, which can cause problems when it dries out. It can warp and split and could require you to make repairs. If you upgrade to choice or premium treated boards, you will incur a greater cost, but they are kiln dried and will last longer and look better than regular pressure treated wood. You can also use a higher quality wood like redwood or cedar, which has a beautiful natural color and is rot resistant. Both have about a fifteen year lifespan, and will need to be cleaned, stained and resealed every two years to keep the natural color from fading to gray. If you use this type of wood, plan on paying two to three times the cost of pressure treated wood. If you are looking for something virtually maintenance free and durable, then you’ll want to use composite decking. This material first came to the market in the 1990s and initially had some problems, such as warping and color fading. However, the composite decking on the market today has come a long way and is beautiful, according to Mike Bryant of Construction Marketing, LLC in Hardy. “Trex, Timbertech and Fiberon are what most homeowners are choosing at the lake today,” Bryant says. “It comes in numerous colors and textures and has begun to mimic natural woods like ipe, rosewood and teak, which gives you a stylish deck with many options for railings.” Composite decking is not only stylish but is also eco-friendly and sustainable. Certain brands are made from recycled materials and will last up to 25 years. The maintenance is minimal, requiring only a yearly cleaning and possibly treatment of mold or mildew if your deck is in a shady or damp area. Maslow agrees and states that composite decking comes with a great warranty, but cautions, “Be prepared: when you make the switch to composite your cost for materials will often quadruple.” Enhance your view

In order to maximize the view and complete the look of your wood or composite deck, you will need to choose the right kind of railings and balusters. According to Bryant, “Smaller posts and balusters that do not obstruct the view have become really popular.” Of course if you want a completely unobstructed view, you can opt for no railings at all, if your deck is close enough to the ground. However, if you are trying to keep in pets and small children, this may not be a viable option. “Glass panels are the best option to view the lake and your surroundings,” notes Bryant. Glass panels can be an amazing addition to your deck; they will compliment any style of home and are relatively maintenance

PHOTO: VINYL PORCH RAIL COMPANY 6 0

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free, requiring a simple cleaning every so often. They are typically made of quarterinch-thick tempered glass which won’t crack or break, and will last a lifetime with proper care. However, as beautiful as glass is, there are drawbacks. It is one of the most expensive ways to enclose your deck. It can also produce a “greenhouse effect,” causing your deck to be warmer in the summer months. This can be avoided by using glass balusters instead of solid panels. Another classic look for your deck is the use of wrought iron. These days wrought iron railings and balusters not only provide a great view from your deck but also are works of art. The possibilities and designs are endless and can be custom made to match your style and taste. Wrought iron is strong, durable and long lasting. It looks great with wood, composite or vinyl accents and is easy to maintain. It may require painting every two to three years to prevent rust or corrosion, but overall is a good choice if you are looking for a product that is low maintenance. Although not as expensive as glass, it is one of the more costly choices for homeowners today. If you

are looking for a lower cost alternative to glass and wrought iron, vinyl railings and balusters are the perfect choice for your deck. There are so many benefits when using vinyl. Jason Nuckles, of the Vinyl Porch Rail Company in Lynchburg, says they receive a lot of requests for vinyl railings with composite accents. Vinyl is easy to install and is long lasting; according to Nuckles, “Quality vinyl will carry a lifetime warranty.” It also provides privacy, will not chip, crack, peel or blister, and is resistant to mold, mildew and pests. If you are looking for low maintenance, vinyl is at the top of the list. Enjoy!

Warm weather will be here before you know it and you will want to spend as much time as you can enjoying your lake house. Plan ahead this year for improvements, whether you are reworking an existing space or adding an entirely new deck. Do some research and get some ideas before consulting a local contractor with experience in deck design and construction. Together you can create a perfect spot to sit back, relax and enjoy the view. ✦

PHOTO: VINYL PORCH RAIL COMPANY

Hardy, VA 24101 SPECIALIZING IN OUTDOOR LIVING AREAS

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LAKESIDE LUXURY

French Country Family Retreat

BY C H R I S T Y R I P P E L

Photography by Michael Patch

im and Jeri Lassiter have a property in Florida, but to recharge, they come to Smith Mountain Lake. The house they’ve built here, with painstaking attention to detail, is the “legacy home” they hope their family will enjoy for generations to come. The 12,000 square foot abode took two and a half years to build, and was a collaboration between the couple, architect Antonio Veloso (now retired), and builder Robert Bauer. The house is a showstopper, built with the finest materials by skilled craftsmen, whose exceptional work is evident in every room. 62

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The grand property retains the casual feel that is synonymous with French Country style, set on arguably one of the best lots the lake has to offer. Situated in The Water’s Edge in Penhook, it was designed to take maximum advantage of the peninsula, with steal-your-breath-away water and mountain views from nearly every window. “It’s really the materials and the inside detail that makes this house so spectacular,” says Bauer. “It was a dream project and one of the best experiences I’ve had as a builder.” While Bauer, Veloso and the Lassiters worked seamlessly on the project, it wasn’t without its challenges. The outside is made almost entirely of limestone from Texas, and given the size of the house, more than 600 tons of stone was required. Shipping and unloading that much stone was a job, and the masonry work 64

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The 12,000 square foot French country home is situated on a peninsula at The Water’s Edge in Penhook, and features breathtaking water and mountain views.

was time consuming. Luckily, Bauer has a network of craftsmen such as stone masons and subcontractors, many of whom he has relied on for nearly 20 years, who worked on the house. Their familiarity with one another and vast experience in the building sector, according to Bauer, is what allowed them to finish a home of this complexity in a relatively aggressive timeframe. The bones of it were complicated to construct, with structural steel beyond the scope of most residential projects, Bauer recalls. It’s a smart home, and can be controlled from an iPad or phone. It has on-demand hot water and multiple heating and cooling zones. It has back-up generators, geothermal heating and cooling, and sensors to detect water leaks that can automatically shut off the water supply. That’s all to say, the construction was multi-faceted. As for the finishes, says Jeri of her husband Tim’s hands-on involvement with the project, “There was no detail left to chance.” The exterior of the house has a multi-level roof line and is L-shaped, sitting at the peninsula’s tip. A stone driveway leads to a three car garage, across from which is the main entrance— solid wood French doors with large glass panes. The doors are positioned so that you can see through the back windows and get a glimpse of the lake from the entry. “This was our second custom build, and that’s something I learned… you think about what the sight lines will be,” says Tim.

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The Lassitersâ€™ main living area is a five-sided space with vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Stepping inside, the foyer is bracketed by a limestone archway and columns, the same material used on the exterior. Two stone steps lead down into a wide open living area. The expansive space features vaulted ceilings, sweeping views of the lake, and at the end closest to the lakefront, a five-sided room boasts floorto-ceiling windows on each wall. Kris Willard, of Smith Mountain Lake-based Interiors by Kris, provided invaluable decorating and interior space planning assistance to the Lassiters during the design process. A large circular sectional sofa faces the windows so family and friends can admire the view. Two comfortable swivel rocking chairs face the sectional to round out the seating group. Behind the sofa are four wingback chairs positioned in a circle, the perfect spot to gather for a cocktail. A buff colored limestone fireplace is on the wall to the left of the windows, with a TV above the mantel. Jeri and Tim couldnâ€™t decide whether or not to put a TV in this room, given other recreational spaces in the house, so they compromised with a TV that looks like a mirror when not in use. To the left of the main living area is a curved staircase with custom iron railing 6 6

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which was made off site and transported to Penhook. It hugs the wall of the house leading to the upstairs bedrooms and the downstairs recreational spaces. An elevator in the house also shuttles guests and luggage and makes the house usable for older relatives, such as Tim’s 97-yearold mother. To the right of the living area is a formal dining space with seating for eight or more. Across from the seating area, a custom built cherry bar, with a sink, ice maker, and shelving for spirits, is stocked for parties and weekends with friends. While the view is the focal point, the eye also travels to the beautiful woodwork and mouldings, which were hand stained on site. “The builder’s sons stained everything, and it was a multi-step process to get it just right,” says Tim. Bauer says his grown sons, David and Lucas, were there daily to manage the project and attend to details such as this. While the mouldings and trim are stained, the walls are a creamy plaster with a light distress, consistent with French Country style. Down the hallway past the bar is the kitchen. Separate from the open living

A warm, welcoming community in the heart of Roanoke Close to downtown, restaurants, hospitals and more. Brandon Oaks’ convenient location makes it ideal for those who want to ditch the responsibilities of a house, but still go and do things they love. All while knowing they will be taken care of, for life.

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area, it has a cozy, country feel and features fully custom cabinetry by Daniel A Peters Woodworking, of Roanoke. The white wood perimeter cabinets are topped with marble, and a bank of windows near the sink, with an unobstructed lake and mountain view, would make even the most reluctant dishwasher volunteer for the task. A four-seater cherry island is stained wood, and topped with a two-inch-thick slab of marble. The kitchen is outfitted in top-of-the-line appliances, like a Wolf double oven, Wolf steam oven, Sub Zero refrigerator, warming drawer, built-in coffee maker and small wine chiller. Over the range, a painting of chickens lends whimsy and warmth to the space. Off the kitchen, a butler’s pantry with a sliding door contains countertop appliances like the toaster and blender, which allows the main kitchen to stay clutter-free. A second dishwasher and second refrigerator make it easy for the Lassiters to entertain a crowd. A morning room is also off the kitchen, and is Jeri’s favorite spot. “This was one of my requests for the house,” Jeri remarks. One can see why—it’s a quaint and quiet place to sip coffee and read the paper, or just take in the view. The morning room leads to the screened porch, a fine spot in nice weather. 6 8

A kitchen with custom cabinetry and a bank of windows leads to a morning room and screened porch.

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The main floor master suite features a stainedbeam vaulted ceiling, and a spacious bath with soaking tub.

The master suite is on the home’s main level. It has a vaulted ceiling with stained beams, and a bank of windows facing the lake. The adjoining bath has his-and-hers vanities, also custom made by Daniel A Peters Woodworking. A freestanding soaking tub has its own alcove, and a hisand-hers shower has controls that were placed for both Tim and Jeri’s heights. The main floor, which also contains a drop zone, laundry, study, full bath and powder room, is covered in French sawn wide plank white oak. Also known as “live sawn,” it is a technique that results in more knots and a rustic look, which the Lassiters wanted. Up the winding staircase to the second story are three bedrooms and four bathrooms, an upstairs laundry, and a landing with seating that overlooks the lake and the space below. A casual bunk room, built for the grandkids, sleeps six when a crowd is in town. Each bedroom has its own thermostat to control temperature, and the second laundry room is handy for doing washing and linens on this level, without having to carry laundry up and down the stairs. 70

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Descending the stairs to the finished basement, itâ€™s obvious that this space was designed for fun. The pinnacle is a large, pentagon-shaped bar that extends out in the room, framed by limestone arches and antique beams. The bar is flanked by two large TVs for viewing multiple games. A sink, ice maker and LED-lit shelves are full of glassware and spirits to create any concoction one would desire. To the left of and behind the bar is a small kitchen area for snack prep. The floor is a Travertine marble that Tim found in Tampaâ€”both attractive and practical for wet feet just in from the dock. Concealed behind a sliding barn door is the movie room, with a sink-in sectional sofa, carpeted floor and surround sound, where the Lassiters like to take in a movie and snuggle up with their three grandchildren. The basement also has a game table in the main area, and a patio with a hot tub. A workout room to get in a sweat session is also on this level, as well as a steam room or dry sauna to relax in afterwards. The are also dressing rooms for heading out to the lake or showering off upon return. Tim, a cigar aficionado and a humidor collector, had a cigar room built in the

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The stylish dock has room for plenty of personal watercraft, plus creature comforts like a bar, ceiling fan, and TV.

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basement with a special ventilation system to filter out odors and smoke. It has plush chairs to relax in while enjoying cigars and hanging out with friends or his sons. An impressive wine cellar with a 950-bottle capacity is also housed in the walk-out basement, and boasts its own air conditioning unit which keeps the space at the desired 62 degrees. Back-up generators ensure that the wine would not be compromised during a power outage, and that some lighting in the house and other essential appliances would function. The basement leads to the outdoor area, which features a sunken fire pit and built-in grill. The private dock at the water’s edge was built by Turner’s Building Inc., and though the size of the dock was limited by shoreline regulations, they packed as much fun as they could into the structure. It has a flat screen TV, seating, a bar, two jet skis, two boats, a kayak, and two stand-up paddleboards. It’s a dock and a house thoughtfully built for family to enjoy for years to come. When the Virginia summer calls, the Lassiters are there, ready to make lake memories with the ones they love most. ✦

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GARDEN tomatoes

garden stars

HOMEGROWN TOMATOES BY S LOA N E LU C A S

Tomatoes are the passion of many a home gardener. Once you’ve gotten a taste for homegrown tomatoes fresh off the vine, it’s hard to go back to the supermarket produce rack. There’s no reason to settle for bland, homogenous grocery choices when you can grow a wide assortment of flavorful varieties at home. 74

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Assessing space

Before you can choose your tomato varieties, you need to assess options for where to plant. Tomatoes are flexible, and can be grown in the ground, in raised beds, or in containers. But they do require a certain depth of soil, and most importantly, tomato plants need at least eight hours of full sun. It doesn’t have to be eight straight hours, though—it can be broken up into morning and afternoon hours. If you have a large backyard with a sunny area, you can plant directly into the ground or build a raised bed, which is a great way to control soil composition. If not, look for any area with enough sun, even the patio, driveway, or dock, and plan to use containers.

And choose both tougher hybrids and more delicate heirlooms to hedge your bets. If bad weather wipes out your more tender varieties, you may still have your hardier plants. However, you should make your selection based on where you can grow them. If all you have is medium-sized containers, you may not be able to grow larger varieties. But if you have a lot of space or larger containers, you can choose almost anything. While selecting your tomatoes, buy some companion plants as well. Basil is a traditional companion plant, because the fruit and herb go well together in a myriad of dishes. But you can also grow flowers like marigold, which helps repel insects and provides a sharp burst of color to make your containers pop in summer. Or slip in a few pepper plants like jalapeños to plan for fresh salsa later in the season.

Tomato varieties

There are two major types of tomatoes: determinate and indeterminate. Determinates grow to a certain size, bear fruit, and then stop growing and producing. They are perfect for smaller or medium-sized containers. An indeterminate will continue to grow, flower and bear fruit until frost or disease kills them, so it’s great for planting in the ground, raised beds or larger containers. As for varieties of tomatoes, visit your local garden center to see what choices are available. Be adventurous! Shop around for the greatest variety. Most garden stores will have a selection of disease-resistant hybrids as well as a few tender but delicious heirlooms. Read the descriptions of each variety, paying attention to whether it’s determinate or indeterminate, and the length of time from planting to harvest. Select a range of plants, from early harvest varieties like Early Girl, to later, larger heirlooms like the classic Brandywine.

Where to plant

When it comes to soil depth, the bare minimum you can get away with for tomatoes to ensure solid root growth is 10 inches deep, in either a container or raised bed. A full foot is better, but the deeper the roots the larger the fruit will grow, so always try to give your plants the maximum space possible. Additionally, the larger the container—or the larger the area you can plant in—the less watering is needed. If you have tillable garden space, you can put your seedlings right into the ground. You should loosen the soil to a depth of about six inches, working with soil that is slightly damp but not wet, and mix it with compost and fertilizer as you till. If you have the means and the energy, consider building some raised beds to allow for better soil control and minimal weeding. Make sure the sides of the raised bed will allow for at least 10 inches to a foot of soil, and fill it with high-quality container soil,

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including compost and fertilizer. Raised beds will still need watering, but they will require less tending and weeding. If you have no garden space to dedicate, no worries. Containers are fantastic for growing tomatoes and can be set up wherever you have enough sun. You can buy large, decorative pots, and combine with basil, marigold and pepper plants to make a decorative but (mostly) edible arrangement. You can also buy larger elevated beds, like the popular VegTrug, that provide deep soil, but at waist level, which makes for easy gardening. Just make sure to keep them watered. When and how to plant

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The generally accepted date to begin planting in Virginia is after April 15. That’s historically the last date for any hard frost that might kill your seedlings. Gardeners who are willing to cover their seedlings with burlap or plastic in the event of a frost can get a jump on the season and plant a few weeks early. When it comes time to plant, you can give your seedlings a head start with a few easy tricks and tips. You should “harden off” seedlings for a few days by letting them stay outside during the day, but bringing them in at night. That will acclimate them before they are planted. Tomatoes will grow roots from anywhere on the stem. That means you can plant leggy seedlings horizontally with the top peeking out of the dirt. The roots will start to grow off the stem, and give your plants a great head start. Plant on a day where the weather is mild. Not too hot, not too cold, not too windy and not too sunny. A calm overcast day is ideal. After planting, water them generously, and then keep soil moist throughout the season. Tomato plants that are subjected to uneven watering, with extreme wet and dry periods, can develop blossom end rot, where fruits have black bottoms. Aim to keep soil moisture as even as possible. You should also fertilize, starting when the first fruits set and continuing about every two weeks throughout the season. Enjoying the harvest

JULY 31- AUGUST 4 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

When the first fruits turn red, it’s time to enjoy the harvest. One delicious way to eat your homegrown tomatoes are sliced with fresh basil, balsamic vinegar and fresh mozzarella for a Caprese salad. You can chop tomatoes with basil, red onion and balsamic and serve on a sliced baguette for a tangy bruschetta. Or chop with cilantro, red onion and jalapeño and serve with tortilla chips for salsa fresca. You’ll be amazed how fresh and flavorful your own harvest will be—making it well worth the effort of planting and nurturing your own. ✦

BRING YOUR GAME

ST AT E G A M E S O FA M E R I C A . C O M As host state, anyone in Virginia can participate

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DESIGN docks

DOCKS THAT ROCK

blending function and fun BY J ERRY HALE PHOTO: TURNER’S BUILDING

When viewers watch couples choosing between properties on HGTV’s “Lakefront Home Search” series, the docks that accompany those homes are often little more than seasonal narrow metal catwalks suitable for temporary tie-up of a rowboat or outboard fishing skiff. It’s altogether different at Smith Mountain Lake, where boat use can be year-round and docks

are significant construction projects that begin at about $60,000 to $80,000 and range well upward. Here, docks are used as outdoor living and entertaining spaces—suitable for keeping expensive boats, PWCs and myriad water toys, secure, but (ideally!) also able to accommodate a vacation onslaught of grandkids and their friends or a neighborhood sunset cocktail hour.

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That mix of desired dock functionality, say dock builders, presents a real dilemma: the 1500 square foot AEP “footprint” allowance (which includes roof and decking overhangs, floaters, mounted PWC racks or drive-ons and walkways wider than six feet) on lots with 100 to 300 feet of shoreline requires significant trade-offs in dock space utilization. Jason Turner of Turner’s Building, one of SML’s most experienced dock construction firms, elaborates: “Most of our customers start out wanting a twoslip dock design. But after realizing how little deck surface that leaves for furniture, lounging and other water-related activity, many are opting for just one slip—or one

full slip and one short slip for jet skis. The increased fixed deck space that allows can make a dock much more livable, especially when families or other guests are enjoying the lakefront.” Floater size is another trade-off decision. “Floaters less than six feet wide are not recommended—too unsteady to be safe,” Turner says. “A larger floater creates room for kids to frolic with swim toys while adults hang out undisturbed on the fixed (and often shaded) portion of the dock.” Turner strongly recommends that anyone not experienced in “dock life” arrange to visit several different dock designs and talk with owners about how PHOTOS: TURNER’S BUILDING

they use their docks, what they like and what they would change. “Only then can those customers make educated decisions about dock space utilization,” he says. AEP rules also limit dock house or storage enclosure size to 72 square feet, which requires clever design for storage of requisite dock-house “stuff.” Many who are building or remodeling integrate a bar pass-through and roll-up window into one side, says Erik Plyer, of Plyler Homes and Docks. “Any more, granite is the go-to bar surface because it is essentially maintenance-free,” he says. In fact, low maintenance is generally in high demand for docks. “Composite decking (like Trex) or PVC (like Azek) is more expensive, but doesn’t warp, splinter or need staining. And newer products— especially the PVCs—aren’t prone to unsightly mold and mildew,” Plyer notes. Remodeling for less maintenance and more livability

Dock remodelers, Plyler adds, often replace decaying wooden decking with maintenance-free manmade planks. They install plywood or vinyl bead board ceilings which brighten undercover spaces, create attic storage space and dramatically decrease the mess that rafter-dwelling spiders and birds drop on fiberglass and canvas. Some add steps—which AEP does not count as additional square footage—for easy water access by kids, pets and seniors. “And because the Shoreline Management rules won’t allow for dock expansion in most cases, we’re often creating lounging and entertaining space by decking over all or part of an older dock’s second slip,” he explains. Other common upgrades Plyler lists are installing remote-control boat lifts, cradle modifications for newly-purchased tritoons (which have a third tube beneath the hull and are usually are larger and heavier than pontoons) and pull-down steps for attic storage of lake-life gear that is not frequently used. A weather-proof dock box provides handy out-of-view storage for waterfun paraphernalia like skis, life jackets, noodles and other toys. Avoid mildew and rot by putting things away dry or leaving the lid up until drying has occurred. Experienced “dock dwellers” know that installing a layer of indoor-outdoor carpeting on dock floaters helps protect the boards from beating sun and feet from S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

“Whether you are building new or remodeling a dock, start early,” Plyler advises. “Surveying and permitting can take two to four months—more if there is a shoreline management issue with AEP. Reputable builders often have other jobs lined up, so you may go into a queue. Leave plenty of time for the careful planning that will result in a new or remodeled dock best suited to how you want to use it.” ✦

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PHOTOS: TURNER’S BUILDING

the burning boards, improves footing, and reduces splinter injuries when the boards are real wood. Using yellow bulbs in your lighting plan will draw far fewer bugs, and low-cost home-store rope lighting overhead is a simple way to create a warm glow. A hammock hung between dock pilings makes a great shady spot for a nap or summer read, while a wireless speaker allows the playlist from anyone’s device to provide a musical backdrop for all the waterfront action. One final suggestion that’s key to safely enjoying your dock life: post a “House Rule” that requires kids to wear life jackets whenever they are on the dock or in the boat. It’s your dock, you make the rules, and this one is a prudent way to make sure kids stay safe.

light the way STANDOUT LIGHTING FOR YOUR HOME BY C H R I S T Y R I P P E L

Lighting is an important aspect of design in any room. While it serves the basic function of allowing us to see better indoors, it also provides a chance to express personal style. “Light fixtures are the jewelry in a home,” says Miranda Dudley, interior designer and owner of Designer Solutions in Moneta. “They can make a big design statement.” Chandeliers, pendants, lamps and wall sconces lend sparkle and warmth, and updating them can instantly transform a space. In a new build, a well-considered lighting scheme is a critical piece of the planning process. Here are some tools, tips and tricks to help your home be bright and stylish. 8 0

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Where to begin?

If you’ve decided to update lighting in your home but don’t know where to start, browse design magazines and online sources for ideas and inspiration. Walk through your home with a pencil and paper and think about whether lighting is preventing you from using an area the way you’d like. Jot down your ideas and wish list, and if you’re reluctant to tackle it on your own, many interior designers offer in-home consultations at an hourly rate (depending on the designer, this could be anywhere from $25/hr to $100/ hr). Also, some lighting stores will do an on-site consultation for a small fee, and make recommendations without obligation to buy, which can be helpful. A fresh eye may also bring up ideas you hadn’t considered that could make your space function better. While changing out existing fixtures is a DIY project for most homeowners, call electricians for quotes on more complicated work, like installing recessed can lights. Layered lighting

Talk to any designer like Dudley about lighting, and they’ll tell you layering is key. Layering means having options for any circumstance in a room. For example, if you are working in the kitchen, bright task lighting ensures you can chop, cook and bake with ease. But if you are having a cocktail party around the kitchen island, you’ll want the ability to soften lighting for a pleasant glow. Consider each room in your house and what you do there, suggests Dudley. In the living room do you watch TV, read and entertain? Is the room particularly dark during any part of the day when you wish it wasn’t? For a multi-tasking room like this one, recessed lighting on dimmers is a great first layer, because they can be turned up for maximum lighting when you’re cleaning or want bright light. They can also be dimmed for a more relaxing vibe. Adding floor lamps at reading spots, like a chair or the coziest seat on the couch, makes reading easy. Table lamps on side tables or a hutch can bring in another interesting dimension. Wise lighting updates

If you have a ho-hum chandelier or pendants and want to update them, you now have more choices than ever. “You can update the decorative lights in your home easily, because there are so many 82

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options now that you can go from highend to reasonably priced,” Dudley says. For example, if you see a high-end fixture that grabs you but don’t want to invest that much, take a picture of it to a designer, a local showroom, or search online for one with similar lines and materials. If you are updating fixtures for resale, buyers are gravitating to warm metals like burnished brass, gold and bronze. Farmhouse, industrial, and architectural shapes like globes are going strong. Organic-inspired fixtures with imperfect shapes are also popular, made with materials like ceramic and hand-blown glass. More fixtures than ever are offered in LED, which is especially trendy with eco-conscious homeowners. While LED lights once cast a bluish, cold glow, the technology has improved. The color temperature is now better, and the light can be indistinguishable from the glow of a traditional incandescent fixture. It’s a great option for hard-to-reach areas, like a chandelier in a two-story foyer, because LEDs last for years, so light bulb changes are practically eliminated. Keep in mind that you’ll pay more for an LED fixture, but will save in energy costs.

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Professional tips + tricks

If you like the new warmer metals but are afraid they won’t match other finishes in your home, such as cabinet pulls or other lighting, know that mixing and matching gets the designer “OK.” A way to make it look more intentional is to repeat the metal somewhere else in the space. So if you go for a burnished brass chandelier, find a mirror to hang on the wall that’s the same metal tone. Repetition of colors or elements is a designer trick to make a space look pulled together. Lights that are too big or small for a space always look awkward, and when a designer is hired to spruce up a room, that’s one of the things they look at first, says Dudley. If it’s sized inappropriately, it really should go. Many homeowners misjudge size when looking at a fixture in the store, so take a tape measure along and know the approximate size you need. A general formula for chandelier or pendant selection in a dining room is that a fixture should have a diameter of one-half to two-thirds the width of the table. To size a light as the focal point of any other space, like a living room or foyer, measure the length and width of the room (to the nearest foot) and add those figures together. The sum of those two numbers is the approximate recommended diameter of your chandelier or pendant (in inches). Standard ceiling height is eight feet, and historic homes can have even lower ceilings, so keep this in mind when shopping. If you have tall or cathedral ceilings, you’ll need to go bigger so that the space doesn’t dwarf your fixture. Make sure you know the store’s return policy, as your best option is to try it out at home (with a helper holding it in place) to make sure it works. Once you’ve chosen the correct size, it needs to be hung at the correct height. Over a table, a fixture can hang as low as 30 inches above the table (measuring from the top of the table to the bottom of the fixture). It may need to be higher if the fixture is visually heavy (you can’t see through it) or if tall family members or guests will be staring directly into the light. In areas where a fixture isn’t hanging over furniture, be sure that a tall person can walk under it, and in a home’s entry, front door clearance is vital. For homes with low ceilings, semiflush mounted fixtures can add interest while allowing for needed clearance. Lighting a new home

Building a home gives you the chance to design a custom lighting scheme, says Dudley, who recommends that you take the time to walk through the house with the electrician before the lighting goes in, to place each fixture and outlet. Her tips? “In an open floor plan, outlets in the floor allow you to place lamps without having to see electrical cords going to the wall,” Dudley suggests. Also, she favors LED rope or strip lighting for under cabinet lights, and has put them in the interiors of cabinets with glass doors to light up the contents. “LED is so compact and it doesn’t get hot, so it can be placed almost anywhere... which gives us a lot of options,” she says. These details may seem overwhelming to consider when the walls of the house aren’t even up, but change orders to the electrical plan after the drywall or plaster is completed can be costly. Again, it’s best to think about what you’ll be doing in each room. If you want the office to be a workroom and a place to charge phones, be sure you’ve got recessed cans or a bright fixture, and a place to plug in devices and your desk lamp. 8 4

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If you are doing built-ins, would a library light be a nice addition to highlight your bookshelves? If you have art that you love, think about where you’ll hang it in the new house. Library/museum lights above art can be stunning and unexpected. Or, if you have a mirror or art that would look good flanked by sconces, consider those for a design punch. The most common places for sconces are on either side of a generous mirror, in the dining room flanking a piece of furniture or art, to light the way on a staircase or in a hallway, and in an entry. In the dining room, if your table is rectangular and long, think about hanging two pendants or chandeliers to break up the length of the table, instead of one in the center. Miniature pendants and chandeliers are popping up in bathrooms, laundry rooms and walk-in closets, so consider whether those might add to your enjoyment of these utilitarian spaces. In the bedroom, a switch on either side of the bed that you can

easily reach is great for turning the light on or off without getting up. A stylish choice in the bedroom that has been growing in popularity is to have two small hanging chandeliers at either side of the bed in place of other bedside lighting. Think about where you want switch controls to be in each room based on how you’ll be entering and exiting the space. For example, do you want a master switch at the top of the stairs to turn off your basement can lights, so you don’t have to descend the stairs to turn everything off? Before finalizing your plan, it’s a good idea to consult a designer or a second eye to be sure you haven’t missed anything crucial. A cohesive lighting plan, whether in an existing house or new build, will make your home both functional and welcoming. Be assured that investing time and money in this project will pay off in the seasons and years ahead, allowing you to enjoy your space and relax and entertain as you wish. ✦

Sweet Pea s

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LIVE drinks

cocktail easy, breezy hour summer classics BY S LOA N E LU C A S

When the weather is balmy and a beautiful lakeside sunset beckons, a tasty cocktail you can whip up in a snap is just the thing. For maximum ease, a self-serve bar allows everyone to choose their own combinations and ratios. Set up the basics on a tray and have plenty of ice at the ready. Collins glasses are a great all-purpose shape, and non-breakable glasses are a good idea down at the dock. Provide a combination of basic bar liquors (light and dark rum, gin, tequila, bourbon, scotch), simple mixers, and garnishes, and let the party begin. 8 6

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When shopping for mixers, bypass humdrum supermarket brands with high fructose corn syrup and instead choose top quality labels made with real sugar and other natural ingredients. One popular brand is Fever Tree (available at Kroger and Target), which offers a range of different flavored tonics, club soda, ginger ale and ginger beer in individual bottles, so each drink is fizzy fresh. They even have naturally “light” options with reduced sugar—a much better alternative to artificial sweeteners. With a simple set up and good quality ingredients, all that’s left are some classic combinations. These libations are flexible— the amount of mixer added can be tailored to personal taste. But here are some basic ratios to get you started… Dark ‘n’ stormy

A refreshing summer cocktail with a Caribbean twist, a dark ‘n’ stormy is made with dark rum, ginger beer and sometimes lime juice, served over ice. Gosling’s claims that the drink was created on the island of Bermuda, and therefore the true rum to use is Gosling’s Black Seal Rum. (But we won’t tell if you use another dark rum.) Ratios for these cocktails vary from two ounces of dark rum to three-to-five ounces of ginger beer. There’s debate about whether lime is traditional or not, but many aficionados feel the cocktail is tastier with a squeeze of juice from a lime wedge. You can also use a lime peel twist for an elegant garnish.

Gin + tonic

A true classic, ratios for this cocktail range from 1:1 to 1:3 of gin to tonic. Definitely start with top-shelf options—including a bar staple like Bombay or its more flavorful cousin, Bombay Sapphire. Or, try Hendrick’s—a Scottish import that stands out for its use of Bulgarian rose and cucumber. You can further jazz up this classic combo with infused tonics, or with additional ingredients. You can add a dash of pomegranate juice, muddled cucumber, or sprigs of fresh garden herbs like rosemary and basil. Bourbon + ginger

American whiskey sales reached $3.4 billion in 2017, according to the Distilled Spirits Council, so no bar is complete without a good quality bourbon on hand. (Two of the country’s top-sellers include Bulleit and Woodford Reserve.) And while you can mix many fancy cocktails with this favorite brown liquor, sometimes simple is best. Mixing bourbon and ginger ale in a 1:4 or 2:4 ratio creates a basic cocktail you can augment with bitters, citrus peels or wedges, or sweet herbs like mint. Mint julep

This classic Kentucky cocktail is very easy to make. Take 2 ½ ounces of bourbon, muddle with about a dozen mint leaves and 1 ½ teaspoons of sugar, fill the glass with crushed ice, and add some club soda. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs.

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Scotch + soda

Also called a classic highball, you can mix a simple cocktail by adding two ounces of scotch whisky to two-to-four ounces of club soda served over ice. But you can also snazz up this simple drink with a dash of orange or other bitters. Or have orange or grapefruit peels ready to twist and drop in for flavor. When choosing a scotch for this cocktail, you need to aim for good quality brand, but not the highest end. High-end single malts like Glenfiddich and Macallan are intended for sipping— and the price reflects that. Aim for a good quality blended like Chivas Regal or Johnny Walker Red.

Mixed with some fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, sugar and club soda, a good tequila creates a tangy, fresh, refreshing cocktail perfect for summer nights. Most recipes will start with ½ cup of fresh grapefruit juice, a tablespoon of lime juice, a teaspoon of sugar, 2 ounces of tequila and about ¼ cup of club soda. You can also shortcut the recipe by stocking grapefruit soda and mixing it with tequila and lime juice. Whether enjoying a quiet moment on the deck, an impromptu raft-up at the dock with neighbors, or having a family barbecue, these easy-to-make summer staples are a welcome addition to the fun. ✦

Mojito

Fresh mint, muddled with sugar and lime, mixed with rum and club soda makes a classic mojito. Muddle about 10 fresh mint leaves and ½ lime, cut into smaller wedges, with a tablespoon of sugar. Add crushed ice and pour 1 ½ to 2 ounces of white rum. Fill the rest of the glass with club soda. Some great rums to stock for this cocktail include Bacardi and Cruzan Rum. Paloma

Tequila isn’t just for margaritas. But you need to know what you’re buying, and select the best. Tequila is a type of spirit made using sugars of the blue agave plant. The purer form of this spirit will be made of 100% agave. It comes in various forms, with the more expensive forms including reposado, tequila that has been aged from about two months to up to a year a year, and añejo, which is aged between one and three years. Two top brands include Don Julio and Patron.

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GARDEN annuals

all season long annuals make gardening easy BY B E C K Y C A LV E R T

Annuals have a short but prolific lifeâ€”they exist to grow fast and lush for one glorious growing season, remaining in bloom for most of their fleeting lives. They are a fantastic way to fill holes and add color around your lake houseâ€”whether in window boxes, hanging baskets, or planted around the garden to add a splash of color for those lulls between the perennial blooms. Most annuals need very little attention beyond some fertilizing when planted, and regular watering. Some annuals are even self-cleaning, meaning they drop their spent blooms without you having to deadhead them. smlhomemaga zine .com 8 9

Begonias, long a popular favorite annual, come in a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Wax begonias grow quickly, are deer resistant and do well in full sun, although they do like a bit of shade in high temperatures. They prefer moist, not wet soil. With their shiny leaves available in a range of colors from rust to green, wax begonias also have blooms in various colors that can be single or double blooming. They can grow from six to 18 inches tall and spread six to 12 inches wide, making them an easy fill for window boxes and container gardens. Tuber begonias are slightly more delicate than wax begonias, with larger leaves and showier blooms that prefer dappled sunlight. Although begonias are known as annuals, they can be brought inside during the winter, and their tuberous roots can be stored for planting the next spring after their greenery has died off for the year. Impatiens, another low maintenance annual, prefer shade, but can be planted in sun if they are allowed to acclimate to it. The closer they are planted together, the faster and taller they will grow to form a bank of flowers. Impatiens are a self-cleaning plant that bloom profusely all season without needing to be deadheaded. Like begonias, they are great for borders, bedding plants or in containers. Geraniums do well in full sun, while also being able to handle some shade. Unlike impatiens and begonias, they will need to be deadheaded, but as their blooms grow on stalks that are easily pinched off, it’s a simple task. While there are several types of geraniums, including wild ones, the most popular and well-known geranium is the zonal geranium, also known as the common or garden geranium. Their easily recognizable tall-stemmed flowers with ball shaped blooms come in a wide range of hues—red, white, pink, coral, lavender and yellow—that may also be bi-color blends. Their distinctive round-to-kidney shaped leaves may or may not have a dark circular mark on them, and they add a cheery vibe to window boxes and other container gardens. Some annuals, such as nasturtiums, zinnias, cosmos and sunflowers, are easily grown from seed. Nasturtiums have distinctive round leaves and are often planted near vegetable gardens because they are pest resistant while also being edible, although they can also be found in container gardens. Zinnias, cosmos and sunflowers are all better suited to garden beds than containers. They come in a variety of colors and heights, and attract beneficial pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden. Zinnias and cosmos are often planted as ‘cutting flowers,’ so they offer the added benefit of keeping your home supplied with fresh cut blooms throughout the season. Of course, no talk of annuals is complete without mention of classically popular petunias. These prolifically blooming trailing plants love full sun (though during the heat of mid-summer they do appreciate a bit of shade, as extreme heat can cause them to pause in their blooming). Available in an ever-widening array of colors and sizes, old fashioned varieties need regular dead-heading in order to keep blooming, while newer hybrids are far less fussy. Regular fertilizing helps keep them blooming, but too much water can make the plants leggy. They do well in hanging baskets or as a trailing plant in a container garden. While Boston ferns are typically thought of as the classic plant to have in hanging baskets on the front porch, the truth is, they prefer indirect light and lots of moisture. They are most happy on a screen porch where they can avoid the direct heat of the sun. Sweet potato vines are an excellent trailing greens that grows like gangbusters in the heat of the summer. While they do produce small edible tubers, as their name suggests, they are not actual sweet potato plants— these are bred to have colorful foliage that comes in shades of purple, pink, green, variegated, and more. They like full to partial sun and moist soil. Coleus are perhaps the lowest maintenance plants of all annuals. They are known for foliage which can be spotted, splashed or bordered, 9 0

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geraniums

sweet potato vines

zinnias

in shades of red, pink, purple, white, yellow, green and chartreuse. Additionally, leaves can be wide, thin, round, pointed, ruffled or straight-edged in shape and size, making for an amazing array of options. Coleus will send up some spiky blooms that can be removed, but their main attraction is their foliage. There are varieties that do well in full sun (typically darker leaved varieties) and those that do better in partial shade (lighter leaved varieties). They can be compact, trailing or upright. Members of the mint family, they are tropical plants that can be propagated to grow inside during the winter, as long as the conditions it prefers are met (temps of 70 degrees and fairly humid). New varieties arrive on the market annually, making it possible to plant coleus every year, but never the same one twice. Other easy annuals include marigolds, eye-catching celosia, dramatic and sturdy amaranth (otherwise known as ‘love lies bleeding’), blue eyed daisies—the list goes on and on. Annuals are a great way to add dependable, season-long bursts of color to your garden without much fuss. The hardest part might be choosing which ones to plant. ✦

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HANGING BASKETS • BEDDING PLANTS • PERENNIALS • SHRUBS • TREES 2452 Bethel Church Rd, Forest • 434.525.3107 • rainfrostnursery.com landscape design & installation available by appointment • serving Lynchburg & surrounding counties for over 30 years smlhomemaga zine .com 91

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RESTORATIVE BEAUTY

open floor plan optimizes views and vacation fun

BY RYA N TI P P S Photography by Jared Hall

The Fungarolisâ€™ Smith Mountain Lake home looks nothing like it did in 2002 when the family from Raleigh, North Carolina, first purchased it. What was once a tight two-story home with latent flaws has emerged into a chic and functional getaway destination for BJ, Caroline, their kids and extended family. smlhomemaga zine .com 93

Yet there is still more work being done on the Long Island Estates property. Caroline’s parents bought the house with the intent of making it a retirement destination. Tucked off of Virginia 122 near LakeWatch Plantation, the route to the house offers an inviting and peaceful drive through wooded land before reaching the narrow peninsula where it rests. Beautiful water views and inescapable serenity are hallmarks of this section of the lake. It was an ideal central location for the family—Caroline went to East Tennessee State University, her brother went to Virginia Tech, and her sister attended Longwood University. Though Caroline’s father was originally from Marion, Virginia, he and his wife lived in Northern Virginia. Smith Mountain Lake was a geographical focal point; it made sense that this should be where the family shared and celebrated its time together. “This was our meeting point for the short holidays and other family opportunities,” Caroline says. “Dad really enjoyed the pace and lifestyle of this area of Virginia.” Sadly, the unexpected passing of Caroline’s father just two years after buying the house changed everything. Without her husband, Caroline’s mother would never make the move to the lake full-time. The house was still a spot for the family to get together, but things weren’t quite right. BJ and Caroline talked to her mom about buying the home, with the plan of renovating it into something special. “We said to her, ‘Let us buy the house, we’ll renovate it, and we’ll keep it in the family for as long as we can,’” BJ says.

The Funagarolis’ Long Island Estates vacation home is centrally located for various out-of-town family members to visit.

Rot and restoration

Caroline’s parents purchased the home out of foreclosure, so they knew there were going to be some problems. But it wasn’t until a decade and a half later, when Caroline and BJ began doing those renovations, that they grasped the magnitude of the issues. BJ owns a company in the demolition industry, so he had a particularly unique perspective on what kind of hurdles the renovations would entail. The Fungarolis hired F&S Building Innovations Inc., in Roanoke, to do the work, and the couple collaborated closely with Alicia Smith, the interior designer at F&S. “It was really nice for Alicia and 9 4

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F&S to be so candid right up front,” BJ says about the planning process. It was a situation in which they could easily end up spending more money on the renovations than the house itself was worth. Together, BJ and Caroline decided on a budget, and the renovations began in fall of 2017. “We started by asking Alicia to draw a walk-through of our vision of this house—we wanted it to be a communal house, a family house, so that when we bring over our friends, family, extended family, whatever, it’s open to them.” There was a lot of work ahead. The house had a small kitchen, a narrow garage and cramped family room. Footsteps—like those of scampering children upstairs— thundered through the basement. Conversations, especially with BJ’s deep voice, would make their way throughout the house. The couple even considered, then dismissed, adding another story onto the building. And then there was the rot to deal with. Stains dotted the basement ceiling, and, likely due to flashing issues, water damage was found in the exterior wall in the basement and by the front door. There was significant rot behind a faux stone façade on the lower level, and damage was even found on the hardwood floors inside many of the doorways. There were also structural cracks around many doors. BJ knew that structural areas are easy places for builders to take shortcuts—a concern that was realized when the landscaper (Raleigh-based Taproot Land Management) found significant rotting around the deck. Though the deck felt solid, 9 6

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The most stunning change the Fungarolis made was eliminating the garage and expanding the kitchen. Anchored by a large, granite-topped island, the room has become one of the homeâ€™s most inviting gathering spots.

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The main living area was renovated to include a spacious kitchen and family room with vaulted whitewashed ceilings and skylights, imparting an airy feeling.

the footers on the poles were dug only into the dirt, with no concrete padding or supports, and they were nearly rotted the whole way through. “When F&S found a problem, they didn’t sit on it,” BJ says. “We were two and a half hours away, and they talked with us openly. The communication with them was profound. And the solutions were always collaborative, with F&S offering us thoughtful options on how to proceed.” Seeing the project to completion

This is Smith Mountain Lake, after all, so having a full view of the lake is a priority for any renovation work. BJ and Caroline also wanted more bathroom space, and a second master bedroom suite for Caroline’s mom to visit. The downstairs needed room for the 9 8

kids to play, including the opportunity to have little campouts on the porch. Ultimately, the Fungarolis wanted durability in their appliances, surfaces and decorations—a sense of comfort without kids or guests feeling like they have to walk around on eggshells. “Working hand in hand, I never would have imagined doing what we did here,” BJ says. “What F&S did, working with so many contractors, was unbelievable. Never once did they say, ‘This is what you asked for, but this is what you got.’ Or, ‘You’re on a budget, so we’re going to limit what we do.’” Smith worked with the couple using 3D imaging to help bring the getaway home of their dreams to life. “I’m always excited when you take someone’s vision, which isn’t close to what you have initially, and see that final result and the customer’s face,” Smith says. “It’s a ‘wow’ moment.” S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

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Six bedrooms offer plenty of room for family and friends.

The most stunning change that the Fungarolis made was eliminating the garage and using that space to expand the kitchen. Anchored by a large, granite-topped island, the kitchen has become one of the home’s most inviting gathering spots. A bank of windows and a skylight set into the raised, whitewashed ceiling complement the light-colored cabinetry and shiny, stainless-steel appliances—a blend of amenities that give the room an airy feel set amid a natural glow. It’s not hard to imagine morning coffee in this room, with several friends and family members. It’s why the room is one of Caroline’s favorites—there is space for everyone to move, and the couple even had two refrigerators installed (one for food, one for drinks) to help with the flow. This area spills into the living room, where the Fungarolis extended the raised ceiling to the far end of the house, expanding 10 0

the view of the water. It creates a sense of openness that the original layout lacked. “What’s amazing is that this isn’t that big of a house,” BJ says. “The footprint, initially, was about 2,400 square feet without the garage, or about 2,800 with it. From the outside, it looks tiny. Then people come inside and say, ‘Wow, this is a lot bigger than it looks!’” Two sets of French doors lead to the deck, and a skylight that mirrors the one in the kitchen adds symmetry and ambience. The deck’s railing was replaced with a clear railing, which helps to complete the broad view of lake. The family’s primary sleeping space is on the main floor, where the master bedroom, as well as the kids’ bedrooms (they have a 16-year-old and twin 4-year-olds), are located. Soundproofing was added to the walls for privacy, and most of the closets were removed to allow for expanding bathrooms and S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

other features (some of that space has been—or will be—supplemented with shelving and wardrobes). “We knew coming in that we weren’t converting this house for the resale but rather for our family,” BJ said. In all, the home has six bedrooms, and four full bathrooms. The highlight is the master bathroom, with dual vanities and a shower boasting tiled walls, a glass entryway and a showerhead mounted directly overhead. There are also easily accessible handheld showerheads here and in a downstairs bathroom to help expedite cleaning the kiddos or their dog after time spent outside. One renovated area that the couple are particularly proud of is the lower level of the deck, which was improved by a ceiling, screening, and fans. It gives the family a place to relax when the bugs are bad or when wet weather decides to sweep in. “It’s a great place to come have drinks, just another area for people to come and get a bit of privacy,” Caroline says. She says that this was the “smartest” addition they did in terms of extending the home’s livable space.

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The open basement features a second master suite and lots of open space for kids to play.

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Much of the basement next to the renovated deck was initially a single open room, aside from a bedroom at one end and a wet bar. The plumbing from the bar made it easy to turn that end of the basement into the home’s second master suite with a generous-sized bathroom. (By coincidence, and to the pleasure of Caroline’s mother, this suite has the best view of the lake.) The central space in the basement features a large entertainment area and plenty of room for kids to play. Board games and other toys line the shelves and are tucked into closets. Mimicking the upper level, the basement originally had several double doors that led to the outside, but the couple converted all except one of them into windows, helping to funnel traffic and allow parents to monitor where their kids are. The existing bedroom has been updated—with a pocket door and the addition of a sleeping nook for kids who need to stay close to their parents at night—as well as the bathrooms and the laundry room in that area. While so much has changed inside, there have also been many changes outside. Though Caroline initially drew inspiration from a trip to Nantucket and leaned toward a cottage feel on the home’s exterior, the end result is a mix of craftsman and cottage style. Even the front door—one of the few original elements remaining—has gotten a facelift with a colorful paint job. Around the side of the house, the landscaper replaced the risers down to the dock with smaller, 8-inch versions. There was also the addition of a prominent stone fire pit just below the driveway. “My favorite time to go out there is around five, when it’s still bright out but the water is beginning to calm down,” Caroline said of sitting around the fire. The L-shaped boathouse has the family’s Bennington pontoon, their two personal watercrafts and an inflatable water trampoline that is a hit with the kids—big and small. Lastly, to help improve their views, the Fungarolis trimmed the trees off the deck. “We didn’t realize how much this would open up once we lifted those branches out,” BJ says, “But now we can sit down to dinner and look out at the lake, which is something we had never been able to do before.” S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

Embracing the area

Prior to renovations, the couple spent about four weekends a year at the lake. Now that the work is largely completed (there are a handful of landscaping projects that are still on tap), they’ve been here closer to two to three weekends a month—and for a lot longer at a stretch. Last July, they had 14 people visit during the first week. The following weekend almost repeated the feat. “It was amazing that people were sitting around the table, kids playing in their area, but we were all one family,” BJ says. They’ve also found themselves less as visitors to the lake and more as part of the community. They meet their neighbors while walking their dogs on the secluded stretch of road; they find themselves looking out for one another; they are getting to know the region better. “We’ve really started exploring the area,” Caroline says. “We’ve now gone to a Lynchburg baseball game, we went to downtown Roanoke. Before the renovations, we never did that kind of stuff. We were always just here for weekends—maximizing the weekends with time on the water.” The sense of connection to Smith Mountain Lake that has developed for BJ was never something he imagined—he didn’t previously boat or fish, and never considered himself a “lake person.” All it took was an invitation from his then-girlfriend Caroline to visit the region, and he was hooked. “I got here, and within two hours of hanging out at the dock with her family, I fell in love with this place,” BJ says. As a family over the years, they have made this place their own. And, perhaps most importantly, Caroline’s mom approves of the changes that were made to what was once her humble abode. ✦

As a part of the Smith Mountain Lake community for more than 30 years, our agents’ mastery of the local market will surely find you the property of your dreams. Call or visit us today and work with consistent leaders in sales and service, backed by a company you can trust.

www.SmithMtnLake.com • 540-721-8659 ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, vLLC. 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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pillow talk DESIGN pillows

the art of the throw pillow

BY NOELLE MIL AM

All hail the versatile throw pillow! These small decorative items that adorn the corners of couches, the top of bedspreads, and the Adirondacks down on the dock are the workhorses of the decorating world. Most often found as 16- or 18-inch squares, throw pillows are found in a variety of shapes from plush rectangles, to round â€œpillboxâ€? styles, to cylindrical neck rolls. Thanks to their relatively diminutive size, comfort, and yes, versatility (most can be inexpensively changed out or recovered with the ease of a zipper or a button or two), they are widely used in all styles of decor today.

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Throw pillows can be the element that pulls your whole design together, tying in colors from area rugs or window coverings with upholstery, art or other decorative features of a home. According to Moyanne Harding, designer and owner of Interiors by Moyanne in Lynchburg, “Throw pillows are a quick and inexpensive way to pull in colors from your space or experiment with new colors or textures, and they help to soften a design.” They are a useful tool when all that is needed is a pop of color or “lift” to a room or space. “They are wonderful to use seasonally as well,” explains Harding. “Because you can replace the covers, your design choices are endless. If you feel like switching out your summer chintz or breezy cottage stripes for a cozy velvet or fur in the colder months, it’s as easy as unzipping the cover and zipping on a new one.” If you plan to go the route of replaceable zippered covers, it is a good idea to invest in quality pillow forms. Harding recommends down pillows (or a good quality down alternative if someone in your family has allergies). “I think down pillows are superior,” she says. “They hold their shape better, and they conform more comfortably to your body.” Polyester fill pillow forms are definitely less expensive, but can get uncomfortably lumpy over time and will need to be replaced more often, making them a more expensive alternative over the long haul. “Plus, down is squishier,” says Harding with a laugh. “I like my pillows squishy.” Keep in mind the scale of where you will be putting the pillows. “Buy pillows that are the appropriate size for your furniture,” Harding cautions. “For example, if you have a couch that is the average 36 inches deep or thereabouts, don’t go bigger than 16 to 18 inches, unless it is an unusually long couch. It’s better to have a couple small pillows rather than one big one that overwhelms the furniture.” The inexpensive versatility of throw pillows means that they are great for trying out new design trends in fabric and trims. This year has been big for globally inspired fabrics such as mudcloth, ikat, and colorful designs from India. “Velvet is enjoying a big moment right now,” Harding says, “and so are all the soft feelgood fabrics such as chenille and furs.” The winter months bring a resurgence of plaids, and this year large checkered “buffalo plaids” are also extremely popular. Another popular look are throw pillows with three-dimensional details such as felt flower petals, silk leaves, glass “gems” and even sequins, though Harding suggests using them sparingly. “They have hard bumps, and sometimes sharp edges that could scratch or snag clothing, and they just aren’t as comfortable,” she cautions. smlhomemaga zine .com 105

Another factor that sets custom throw pillows apart from mass-made is the quality and types of trim used to embellish it. “I’m crazy about beautiful trims, they give pillows personality,” says Harding. “There are so many beautiful new ones this year!” The trend seems to be a simpler look from years past. “In my experience, we are seeing a lot more of the simple, clean lines of banding or cord these days and less fringes, beads, and tassels,” Harding explains. “The nice thing is that they are so easy and inexpensive to change out, but can make such a big impact on your design.” Throw pillows are not just for indoors. They can liven up a porch swing or any outdoor seating, from Adirondacks on the dock to rattan outdoor sets, and from poolside lounges to boat cushions. They add a touch of style, whimsy and comfort wherever you choose to incorporate them. Today’s weather-proof fabrics are durable and versatile. Just be sure you are buying quality outdoor fabrics, Harding cautions. “Unless you are one of those people that just likes to buy new pillows each year, I would recommend looking for Sunbrella fabrics. They are the best of the best—amazingly durable and available in so many colors and patterns that suit every taste.” ✦

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IMPROVE insect control

keeping bugs at bay NATURAL REMEDIES TO COMBAT COMMON PESTS

BY J E S S I E T H O M P S O N

t doesn’t matter if they have four legs or four hundred, when bugs come around, they bug us. There’s good reason to be irritated, as some species can transmit diseases and have nasty bites or stings. Entomologists tell us that out of the 10 quintillion insects on Earth, about only five percent are actually harmful, and wouldn’t you know, it’s those that we’re most likely to encounter in and around our homes. We all have doors and windows, vents and pipes. While sealing the most common entry points (by replacing door sweeps and window seals, for example) can alleviate bugs’ entrance, it’s not foolproof. So what can you do to make your house unattractive to bugs? For one, clean up. Many insects have a terrific sense of smell, so they are able to find even the smallest of crumbs. Put food in sealed containers or in the fridge, and wash off cans and fresh fruits before storing. Pet bowls also should be cleaned regularly. If after this you’ve still got uninvited guests, we’ve got some easy, practical, and nontoxic solutions for the most common intruders…

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Indoors Ants: Ants leave a chemical trail as they search for food. That’s

why you’ll find hundreds, single file, headed to a tasty morsel. They also have a very good sense of smell, and are somewhat particular. Apparently, one smell they hate is black pepper, and another is cinnamon. Put a light dusting where ants have been seen. Another smell that bugs dislike: vinegar, which is a natural disinfectant. Put a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and wipe down counters and shelves. A final natural trick for repelling ants: Leave fresh cucumber peels in high anttraffic areas. (It contains a compound that repels them.) Spiders: Spiders are also sensitive to vinegar. Mix a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spray where you regularly see spiders. More research suggests using essential oils—especially peppermint—as a natural insect repellent. Mix 10 drops of the oil into that same spray bottle. Roaches: These are the grossest of bugs; they carry germs, will theoretically survive nuclear war, and if you see one, there are many more nearby that you didn’t. DIY cockroach killers work by mixing equal parts of something roaches love (sugar or cocoa powder) with something deadly to them (Borax, diatomaceous earth, or baking soda) and sprinkling it where you have seen roaches. Another remedy is mixing three parts liquid fabric softener with two parts water in a spray bottle—but you need to see the roaches to squirt them for this method to be effective. One other tip: Get rid of unwanted/unused paper. Roaches love paper. Moths: Bay leaves aren’t just for spicing stews—they can help deter pantry moths, too. Scatter a few on your shelves or keep them in a shallow open container to prevent moths from making your pantry their home. If you happen to have an infestation, the best thing to do (unfortunately) is toss everything. It’s a lot of waste, but it beats eating contaminated food. Clean shelves with hot soapy water, then wipe them down with a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and warm water to kill off remaining eggs. Fruit flies: Unlike the other pests we’ve mentioned, fruit flies and aphids love vinegar. If they are a nuisance in your home, garden or outdoor buildings, half fill a small bowl with apple cider vinegar and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Punch two or three holes in the plastic about the size of the lead of a pencil, and place the bowl near the aphid or fruit fly infestation. The

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insects will fly in through the holes to get to the vinegar, but they won’t be able to fly out again and will drown. (Alternatively, try adding a couple drops of dish soap to the vinegar, which breaks the surface tension of the liquid and causes the flies to sink.) When the vinegar begins to fill up with dead insects, wash out the bowl and repeat the procedure. Outdoors

Trying to eliminate bugs outside is like trying to herd cats: impossible. But there are some natural ways to combat pests. One way is to grow pest-repelling plants, which include lemongrass (it contains citronella, which is often packaged in candles and spray as the gold standard in natural insect repellents), marigold, catnip, basil, and lavender. If you’re feeling a little edgy, you could try pitcher plants, a perennial that eats insects. Other predators include bats, purple martins, guinea hens and opossums, so encouraging habitats to attract those animals might get them to do the work for you. Another highly-touted way to keep pretty much all bugs at bay is by using moving air (ceiling or oscillating fans). And it should go without saying that all food and drinks outdoors should be covered. Mosquitoes: One simple way to deter mosquitoes, which carry Zika and West Nile virus, among other diseases, is to have air moving. Ceiling fans for outside spaces (porches, docks), are perfect for this. Another key: get rid of standing water, where mosquitoes lay their eggs. If it rains, dump out any collected rain water and wipe out to dry. Both bats and purple martins love to eat mosquitoes, so trying setting up homes for them on your property. Gnats: As with fruit flies, put out a bowl of apple cider vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap to trap them. Citronella, vanilla, pine oil, and dryer sheets are also commonly used to repel gnats. Hornets/Wasps/Yellowjackets: If opposed to using chemical sprays, experts suggest using deterrents. Wasps are territorial, so hanging a “fake” nest can keep them from coming to your property; there are also a number of traps that contain nontoxic (to humans and pets) compounds to lure and kill these flyers. Ants: To eradicate an ant colony, carefully pour boiling water directly on an ant mound. Also, ants supposedly won’t cross a

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chalk line. Draw one in front of exterior doors to prevent ants from coming in the house. You can also draw a chalk line around tables on the porch or patio to keep them away while dining outdoors. Get the kids involved! Ticks: We saved the worst for last. Ticks have zero redeeming characteristics and spread a number of debilitating diseases, including Lyme disease, which is on the rise in our area. Our best advice when it comes to repelling ticks is use common sense. Protect and check pets that go outside. Spreading diatomaceous earth (DE) on the perimeters of outside gathering spots might help keeps ticks away. (DE works by fatally dehydrating ticks, but they have to walk through it first.) There is also evidence that suggests using essential oils—rose geranium and lemon eucalyptus seem to top the lists—may repel ticks. And finally, though opossums sometimes get a bad rap, they are tick-killing machines, eating thousands every season. Nontoxic solutions are better for us, the environment, and all the beneficial plants and creatures at the lake. While bugs are an inevitable part of life, these tips and tricks might help make your time here, both indoors and out, more enjoyable this season. ✦

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LIVE farmers markets

locavore alert outdoor markets at SML BY MEGAN JANSEN

Photography by Jerry Hale

We’ve long known that locally raised, organic food is beneficial for both health and the environment, not to mention the taste buds! Yes, you can purchase organically grown produce at Kroger and Food Lion, but where did it come from? California? Chile? Wouldn’t it be fresher if it came from Union Hall? Although Kroger sells organic peaches from “The Peach State” of Georgia, the flavor can’t compare with homegrown ones purchased at the Westlake Farmers Market. Similarly, a store-bought tomato’s ripeness and juiciness pales in comparison to that of a homegrown one sold at a local market. While there are no organic stickers on their produce, most of the local markets say their products are organically grown, without sprays or 1 1 0

insecticides. “We don’t need a government label; we know how we grow it!” one market owner told me. Indeed, these are relatively small operations that don’t feel the need for certification. Some of the regular shoppers at these markets actually don’t want word to get around, because once the vendors sell what they have, they leave— and thus might not be open for the full posted hours. “I go to the Westlake Market every Saturday,” says loyal customer, Carolyn Smith. “Don’t tell everybody else how good it is!” she exclaims. Sorry, Carolyn, the word is out. Here is a list of outdoor markets in the Smith Mountain Lake area— get there early! S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

OUTDOOR MARKETS Lakescapes Nursery 11059 Old Franklin Turnpike (Rt. 40), Union Hall 540-576-2781 Hours: Monday–Saturday 9am–5pm, Sunday 11am–5pm. Closed Sundays in winter. Sells plant material year round; sells produce April through October. n Produce is locally grown in three gardens on 25 acres onsite. Over 700 tomato plants, including heirlooms; also green beans, squash, heirloom lettuce, kale, cucumbers, zucchini and peppers (regular and hot). n Corn, apples, peaches and grapes come from the local farmers’ co-op. n Tomatoes, green beans, salsa and tomato juice canned locally at a cannery in Glade Hill are also sold. “We do not use chemicals. All our items are organic, and a lot of the produce from the co-op is as well,” says Lakescapes owner, Tim Tingler. “People come to our market from as far away as Lynchburg and Roanoke.”

Beckner’s Produce 6318 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Wirtz 540-721-2446 Hours: Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 8am–5pm. Open March 1 through Thanksgiving. n Produce grown here on the farm includes tomatoes, corn, cucumbers, beans, squash, melons, peppers, pumpkins, cantaloupes, eggplant, onions, potatoes and fresh herbs. n Peaches and berries grown by the Beckners’ cousins are also sold here. n They make canned food, baked goods and jams in an inspected kitchen. n They sell local honey. Beckner’s is a family operation that was started in 1999. All fruit and vegetables are non-genetically modified. Produce is not organically guaranteed but is grown with as little chemical help as possible. An electrified fence keeps out deer, or there would be much less to buy!

Westlake Farmers Market Booker T. Washington Hwy. (Rt. 122), Hardy 540-721-2446 Just south of Westlake Corner, between The Lake Inn and Smith Mountain Building Supply. Hours: Saturdays, May– October 9am–1pm; Saturdays, November–April 10am–Noon Stands include:

Fruit and Vegetable Market at Westlake n Large variety of vegetables: Squash, zucchini, peppers, corn, turnips, tomatoes (including heirloom and yellow), okra, sugar snap peas, green beans, cucumbers, onions. n Fruit varieties include blueberries, cherries, nectarines, and peaches. n Plants and cut flowers are available. n Grower states pesticides are not used, but no “certified organic” stickers on produce.

Wawokiya Farm Pastured Poultry 540-529-1888

n Locally grown heirloom tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and plants from Callaway. n Non-GMO chickens (pesticide and chemical fertilizer free) $3.50/pound. Wawokiya poultry is raised in an eco-friendly environment, fed farm-raised soybeans and corn with no herbicides, pesticides, or genetic modification. Chickens are raised on grass pasture instead of cramped quarters where antibiotics and hormones are used to prevent sickness and encourage growth. Wawokiya invites you to visit them any time.

Stone Soup Farm

540-482-0577, jwalke13@gmail.com. n Free range chicken eggs, pullet eggs, duck eggs. n A wide variety of vegetables, fruits and berries, low-sugar jams and jellies, dried herbs, pickles and salsa.

PICK YOUR OWN OPTIONS It’s best to phone first to determine what is ready for picking. (No claims of organically-grown fruit or vegetables have been made by the following farms.)

Scotts Strawberry Farm 5234 Joppa Mill Rd., Moneta 540-297-7917 Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:30am-7pm, Sunday 1-6pm Open mid-May through summer. n Blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, vegetables, local honey. n Pick your own or already picked. Cash only.

Buffy’s Blueberries 1038 Capital Hill Rd., Huddleston 540-330-5144, buffysblueberries.com Phone or email for hours. Blueberry season can last through September; blackberries are ripe in July. n Four acres of blueberries in 12 varieties. n Pick your own berries ($4/pound) or already picked ($6/pound). n Farm fresh eggs available all year ($4/dozen). n Tomatoes, cucumbers, squash and other veggies available in summer.

Gross Orchards 6817 Wheats Valley Rd., Bedford 540-586-2436 Hours: Monday–Saturday 8 a.m.–7 p.m. n Peaches, apples, strawberries. n Wagon rides. ✦

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IMPROVE cleaning

ready, set, spruce! cleaning tips for life at the lake BY K AT H E R I N E F U LG H U M K N O P F

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ake life is about friends and family stopping by for a short visit, a day trip, or an overnight stay. We all want to focus on boating, fishing and relaxing on the dock, not a chore list. But you never know who might drop by, so before fixing that cold drink and slipping into an Adirondack chair, it’s a good idea to be prepared. Having supplies, a checklist, and a plan means you’ll always be ready to welcome friends and family, even on short notice.

Be prepared

Assemble a basket of general cleaning supplies you can carry with you from room to room. Include paper towels or cleaning cloths, glass cleaner, disinfectant wipes, a spray bottle with vinegar and water, furniture polish, and shower cleaner. An enzymatic cleaner is great both for cleaning up spills and stains and for providing a fresh, clean scent. Stash a broom near areas that tend to need sweeping, and a good vacuum cleaner for the rest. Bagless vacuums are usually easier to empty, and either a lightweight model or one for each floor of the house will save time and effort.

Covered baskets, bins, and lidded ottomans are attractive solutions for quickly stashing clutter when needed. A variety of shapes and sizes for different spots will come in handy. Steam cleaners are faster and clean better than mopping, and are less likely to leave streaks. Investing in one will make cleaning hard floors easier, and involves less fuss—no buckets! Always have clean bath and beach towels—you don’t want to run out at the lake! Having designated shelves or baskets and storing them in a specific spot helps you organize the house and makes it easy for guests.

Pro tips

First impressions

When dusting, start from the top and work down so that dust from higher surfaces doesn’t fall where you’ve already cleaned. Save floors for last.

For the driveway and entrance to your home, grab a broom and sweep the front walk or porch. Pick up the welcome mat at the entry door and give it a good shake.

Sweep under it and replace it. Spruce up flower pots by removing dead flower heads to keep them looking well-kept. (Don’t forget to check and see if they need water too.) Arrange pots and containers that may have moved out of place. Room by room

Once inside, look over the entry for clutter. If you have a nearby closet, hang items inside. Or stash a basket for things like leashes and market bags. In the kitchen, clear the counters of any dirty dishes. Put away small appliances if possible. Check larger appliance and cabinet fronts for smears and drips. A sponge dipped in hot soapy water does a good job cleaning counters and cabinet fronts (work from top to bottom). Use a glass cleaner to make appliances sparkle. Make sure the coffee pot is empty from the morning’s use and rinse it out with hot

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ADVERTISER index Bayside Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Berkshire Hathaway-Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate . . 103 Better Sofas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Brandon Oaks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 By Design Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 CLC Incorporated. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Closet Storage Organizers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Construction Marketing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Custom Structures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Vicki Millehan and Debbie Shelton, Realtors. . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Decorating Den Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 DeNeal’s Cabinets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Emily Mangus Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 F&S Building Innovations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Fabulous Finds SML. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

water, so it will be clean and ready for the next brew. Spot clean the floor if you don’t have time to do the whole area—check around the stove and sink. Make sure any eating areas have clean and clutter-free table tops. In the main living spaces, fluff pillows, fold throws, and straighten coffee table books and magazines. Spot clean for dust and fingerprints, and stash remotes, games, toys, etc., on shelves or in bins. Powder rooms should always have fresh towels and supplies. Make sure the sink, mirror, and commode are clean and wiped down, and check behind the door and in corners for dust bunnies. If you’re having overnight visitors, go through the guest quarters to ensure fresh linens, and give table tops, dressers and nightstands a quick dust. Run the vacuum if needed. Guest tubs or showers get a quick rinse with shower cleaner, and give the handles a good scrubbing to make them shine. Put out a fresh bar of soap or a pump bottle variety; add a stack of clean towels and the bathroom is ready for company. Make sure glass doors and main windows are clean and sparkling to show off the view and welcome visitors to the outdoors.

Fink’s Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Down at the dock

Glenda McDaniel, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Putting up a flag on the dock shows you are home and welcomes guests. Consider hanging a sign prominently that declares your family name and makes it easy for boaters to recognize your place from the water. In the boathouse or dock box, stash an outdoor cleaner that fights mildew and algae, along with several terry cloth towels. Dock chairs get a lot of use and are exposed to the elements—use that outdoor cleaner on them if guests are headed your way. Glass cleaner is a quick way to polish table tops. Life jackets and paddles also stay clean with a periodic wipe of outdoor spray cleaner. Be sure you have a life ring that is in good shape, clean, and hanging in close proximity to your swim area. The outdoor cleaner and a rag will remove mildew as it builds up over the summer. Floats and noodles can be kept in a storage hut or large deck box to keep them clean, and refreshed when needed with that cleaner and terry towel.

Lake Retreat Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Margaret Craye, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Member One Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Moyanne Harding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 National Pools of Roanoke. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Next Time Consignment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Perimeter Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16, 109 Piedmont Floors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16, 101 Pinnacle Cabinetry & Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Rainfrost Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Reclaimed @ Smith Mountain Lake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Robert R Bauer Building Contractors, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Ronnie Mitchell and Son Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Seven Oaks Landscape Hardscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Smith Mountain Lake Dental Practice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Southern Landscape Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 Spectrum Stone Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Having a clean home and dock allows you to relax and delight in the wonderful activities and lifestyle our area has to offer. As house guests come and go, you will want to review some of these tasks from time to time. It may be just washing sheets and towels and fluffing pillows, or a slow Sunday might call for a complete boat washing. Keeping your home and dock area maintained makes it an inviting space to enjoy, and also takes care of your valuable investments. ✦

State Games of America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Sweet Pea’s Lighting and Décor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 TCV Trust & Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 The Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 The Little Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 The Summit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Vinyl Porch Rail Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Turner's Building. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Vinton Appliance Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Virginia Building Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Virginia Mountain Mortgage (Bank of Botetourt). . . . . . . . . 19 Webster Marine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Westminster Canterbury. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Whitt Carpet One. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@smlhomemagazine.com. 114

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 9

THE BEST QUALITIES OF A REAL ESTATE AGENT... STAGING AND SELLING A HOME!

b r o k e r e d by

434-851-9421

MOYANNE@MOYANNE.COM

r u a o n y c p hor o rD

Smi

th M o untain

e k La

Realtor®

Luxury Collection Specialist

GRI, CRS, ABR

540.520.2401

Vicki@VickisLakeHomes.com VickisLakeHomes.com

540.797.3177

Debbie@DebbieShelton.com DebbieShelton.com

©2019 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.

West Willow Publishing Group

Published on Mar 18, 2019

Smith Mountain Lake Home Magazine 2019

Published on Mar 18, 2019

westwillowpublishinggroup

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