Central Virginia Home Summer 2016

HOME C E N T R A L V I R G I N I A

DESIGN

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GARDEN

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Flavors of Summer OUTDOOR ROOMS

DESIGN WITH FRESH FLOWERS

GREAT ON THE GRILL

SUMMER 2016, VOL. 10, NO. 3

RAILINGS

COLUMNS

FENCING

ARBORS

SCREEN PORCHES

DECKING

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HOME CENTRAL

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 3 PUBLISHER

Julie Pierce EDITOR IN CHIEF

Meridith Ingram ART DIRECTOR

Trisha Roth GRAPHIC ARTISTS

Amanda Adams Khristina Helmich CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cynthia BeMent Becky Calvert Lucy Cook Andie Gibson Jerry Hale Megan Hall Megan Jansen Mary Ellen LaFreniere Sloane Lucas Adrienne Mand Lewin Noelle Milam Rory Rhodes Alaya Sexton Jessie Thompson PHOTOGRAPHER

KG Thienemann OPERATIONS MANAGER

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Beth Moore SUBSCRIPTIONS

Central Virginia HOME is published five times annually

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

To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Central Virginia HOME at info@cvhomemagazine.com.

West Willow Publishing Group, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2016 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned.

As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

c vhomemaga zine .com 9

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

contents C e nt r a l V irg ini a H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

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features RE TI REM EN T L I V I N G I N C EN T RA L V I RG I N I A

Communities that help seniors live life to the fullest

BY CYN TH IA B E M E N T

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

What material will dazzle in your kitchen?

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

WHER E T RA DI T I ON A L M EET S C REAT I V E

The Cecils’ home is a haven of art, collectibles and good times

BY J ES S I E TH O M P S O N

CRE AT I N G A N OU T DOOR ROOM

Design a space outdoors where you can savor summer

BY R O RY R H O D E S

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HOME Magazine

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C e nt r a l V irg ini a H O M E S u m m e r 2 0 1 6

departments 79

24

84

32

DESIGN

IMPROVE

GARDEN

LIVE

24 F U N , F UNKY PAIN TS DIY paint projects never looked better

29 GE T GRI LLI N G Organize a grilling station for fun, efficient cook-outs

48 I T ’ S P EA CH S E A S O N Recipes to savor the perfection of peaches

BY S LOAN E LU CAS

BY M EGAN HALL

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

BY LU CY C O O K

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

74 C H A NG E U P Y O U R C HAIR S A few new pieces, a whole new look

84 ROOF MAI NTE N A N C E How to keep your roof in good repair

BY CYNTH IA B E M E NT

BY J E R RY HALE

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

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

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

New annuals are ready for summer’s heat

BY B EC KY CALVE RT

66 G ET F I T !

Trends in fitness in Central Virginia

BY ALAYA S E XTO N

79 C H EERS F O R TH E RED, W H ITE A N D B L UE Party ideas using summer’s favorite colors

BY M EGAN JAN S E N

95 SOU T H ERN S I P S Quench your thirst with the South’s signature drink: iced tea

BY AN D I E G I B S O N

S P E C IAL INTEREST 9 8 Index of advertisers 14

48 Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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Building Central Virginia Since 1996 COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL (434) 258-2832 www.coulsonbuilders.com c vhomemaga zine .com 15

Golden YEARS THE

Understanding Today’s Retirement Living

BY CY N T HI A B EMEN TÂ

Weighing the option to move to a retirement community is one of the most important decision-making processes you’ll face, one that involves so much more than choosing floor plans and checking amenity lists.

In Central Virginia, life is the operative word when it comes to choices for retirement living, with numerous options for living vibrantly while planning for future care as you age. Though finding the right retirement community can seem like a daunting process and the options may at first seem overwhelming, making the choice to have choices by planning ahead and carefully working through the research process can put time on your side. Here, we talk with two area communities about retirement living in Central Virginia and give you some tips on planning this chapter of your life on your own terms.

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

T h e S ummi t We s t mins t e r C a nt e r b ur y P h ot o gr a p hy by A n drew W il ds

T h e S ummi t

T h e S ummi t

Senior Living Today: More than Activities

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Many retirement living communities today place their emphasis on creating mentally and physically active living rather than simply ways to pass the time. “The whole educational enrichment side of retirement living has ramped up considerably in the last five years,” says Laura Hunt, marketing director at Westminster Canterbury retirement community of Lynchburg.

“In our community, we are looking to provide cultural enrichment, spiritual enrichment—anything that we can think of that is interesting and current, and we bring it right here on campus.“ Westminster Canterbury is a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) comprised of independent living, assisted living, and long-term nursing and memory care.

Life-long learning is one of the focuses of Westminster Canterbury, and in addition to a 2,000 volume library, computer lab, business office, and lecture and performance hall on campus, it takes residents weekly to Senior Symposium at Lynchburg College, where residents, together with Lynchburg College senior students, participate in lectures and small group discussions on a variety of contemporary issues. “We have a lot of bright minds in this community, so we go to them and they come to us,” says Hunt. “There’s something very nice about being able to go to a college with friends and be dropped right at the door with no intimidation. These are things that we’re very committed to.”

The Summit, another CCRC which is part of the Centra Health System, is located in the Wyndhurst area of Lynchburg.

Its focus is on giving residents as much control over their lifestyles as possible through customization, and by striving to preserve residents’ independence at every juncture of the retirement-living experience. “People are looking for ways to customize their plans and put together their own choices for retirement living. We offer choices that residents can opt in or out of that range from meals and housekeeping to flooring, paint colors and counter materials in their home,” says Brenda Dixon, marketing director. “To us, being independent is the ability to be free of worry and stress and day-to-day things like home maintenance and housekeeping. It’s being able to spend time doing things that you want to do with your life.” Offering both apartments and lakeside garden homes for independent living on its campus, the culture at The Summit prides itself on laid-back leisure set against natural beauty. Situated on 143 acres, The Summit enjoys Wyndhurst out its front door and an 8.5-acre lake (with boating opportunities) and the Blue Ridge Mountains out its back door. Creative outlets like painting, singing, scrapbooking and cooking classes are held on campus, and frequent day-trip opportunities to lectures, musical events, minor league baseball games, the Peaks of Otter and the Lynchburg Museum highlight their off-campus opportunities.

Wellness is also a key focus of retirement living in 2016.

“We are very strong in the wellness area,” says Hunt about Westminster Canterbury. “We have at least 17 wellness classes each week that range the gamut from Zumba to vigorous deep water classes. We have personal trainers, tai chi and seated yoga—and it’s all geared toward seniors.” Westminster Canterbury’s Wellness Center houses a heated pool, and its director individually tailors activity plans to each resident’s needs and goals. The center also houses treadmills, stationary bikes and NU Step exercise equipment.

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Experience Life Refreshed.

Best in class!

Our residents have spoken! We’ve just been awarded Highest Honors in 31 categories based on resident satisfaction surveys across our campus.

We also significantly exceeded national benchmarks* for • Overall Satisfaction • Value for Price Paid • Long-term Confidence in Community’s Future We’re passionate about our pursuit of excellence.

Come see why our residents agree.

Start planning your future and experience Life Refreshed.

Call Laura Hunter to schedule a tour, (434) 386-3305 • (800) 962-3520 A LifeCare Retirement Community 501 V.E.S. Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503 www.wclynchburg.org * Benchmarks based on data maintained by Holleran, a national consulting firm for senior living providers.

When to Consider Retirement Living

We s t mins t e r C a nt e r b ur y

While the right time is different for each person making the decision to move into a senior living situation, addressing it before you’re forced to gives you control over your choices and helps ensure you’ll be able to continue your current lifestyle now and into the future. You’ll also take the burden off of extended family members who might have to decide your living situation for you if something should happen to your health and you need continuing care. In short, construct a plan and communicate your plan to family members. “I always tell people don’t wait too long. It’s not going to get easier the longer you wait, it will get harder,” says Dixon. “You want to be able to make the choice for yourself, versus someone choosing for you, and the longer you wait, the more likely you are to have an incident that will force you or someone else to make a decision.”

Additionally, Dixon points out, couples who are considering retirement living may benefit by making the move before it becomes necessary, in order to ensure that they can stay together—not be split up—if the need for an elevated level of care should arise for one partner in the future.

T h e S ummi t

Welcome home...

...to luxury senior living!

Freedom, peace of mind, a vibrant lifestyle and the security of a Life Plan community are all waiting for you at Brandon Oaks. Here, you’ll find a campus filled with natural beauty and an outstanding array of spacious residences from which to choose. Not to mention our wonderful dining venues ranging from quick, casual fare to restaurant-style. Plus, a long list of great features that make life one of activity, wellness, vitality and ease. You’ll immediately feel a sense of belonging—comforted in knowing everything you need is at your fingertips—for life.

Visit us at BrandonOaks.net to learn more or call us at (540) 777-5602 to schedule a tour.

3804 Brandon Avenue, SW | Roanoke, Virginia 24018 | (540) 777-5602 | BrandonOaks.net 20

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

T h e S ummi t

“There’s a lot of strong interest right now from people who want to plan potentially the next quarter-century of their lives,” says Hunt. “We’ve seen a growing number of those between 65 and 75 either making a decision to become a part of a community like this, or getting it on their radar sooner rather than later.”

She also points out that freeing oneself of physical or mental chores of daily life that have become overwhelming can actually enhance your lifestyle instead of restrict it. “We’re now even more intentional than ever in thinking ahead about what would make life better for residents living here. If we can take care of more for people right here on campus, then as they age, we aren’t taking control away from residents’ lives because they can still do these things, they just don’t have to go out into the community to it.”

Look for the Lifestyle

Start by examining your current lifestyle and make a list of your preferences (location, transportation, proximity to other residents and to family members, layout of the grounds, ease of getting around the community on foot, for example) and personal passions. Then create a wish list of amenities you’d like in a community in order to replicate your current lifestyle—consider elements like varied dining options, access to nature, lectures, concerts, fitness classes, plenty of room for visiting grandkids, an active community social calendar. Use your wish list as a guide when considering amenities. Also look at each community’s health and medical care facilities for later stages of your life. Ask your family to help you research, and choose just a handful of communities (three to five maximum) to target to avoid feeling overwhelmed. c vhomemaga zine .com 21

We s t mins t e r C a nt e r b ur y P h ot o gr a p hy by A n drew W il ds

engaged IN LIFE

Enjoy Peace of Mind in our Life Plan Community The Summit is retirement living at its best. The lakeside garden homes and apartments are completely maintenance‐free, leaving you time to do all the things you have always wanted to — whether it be traveling, volunteering, or spending time with your family and friends. And you will have the peace of mind knowing that healthcare is here on campus if you need it.

Call today to schedule your visit: 434.582.1500 1400 Enterprise Drive / Lynchburg, VA 24502 SummitLynchburg.com

2 2

Compare Services, Costs and Contracts

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

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

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Experience Community Culture

T h e S ummi t

We s t mins t e r C a nt e r b ur y

Live life to the fullest in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or the warmth of small town living.

Call today to arrange your complimentary, overnight Staycation* at one of our continuing care retirement communities.

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

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

Consider bringing your family members on your first or a subsequent visit so they can experience life in the community the way you will.

Once you investigate retirement living based on your interests, current needs, future care plan and budget, you can select the right community and plan for you with confidence that you’ll be able to continue and even expand your current lifestyle—not pack yourself away. You may even inspire others in the process. “The best part of my job is the wonderful stories of life: where [residents] have been, what they’ve done and how they’ve lived and their continued passion for life is so inspiring,” says Hunt. “There are a lot of admirable qualities that we can glean from this age group.”

SUNNYSIDE 800.237.2257 Harrisonburg, VA

KING’S GRANT 800.462.4649 Martinsville, VA

SUMMIT SQUARE 800.586.5499 Waynesboro, VA

www.SunnysideCommunities.com

*Certain restrictions may apply.

c vhomemaga zine .com 2 3

t n i a p

n DESIGN UNIQUE PAINT TREATMENTS

PROJECT

A Guide to Fun and Funky Paint Options

BY S LOA N E LU C AS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

■ Chalky

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

■ Traditional

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

■ Chalky

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

■ Milk

SIM ILARITIES: ■B ecause

Milk Paint vs. Chalky Paint

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

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

The term Chalk Paint® is trademarked

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

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

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

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

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

■B oth

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

■B oth

paints can be applied with either a brush or roller.

■F or

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

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

■B oth

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

DIFFERENCES: ■W ith

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

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

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

■ The

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

■ Milk

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

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

■ Chalk-type

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

c vhomemaga zine .com 25

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

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

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

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

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

Or, just let it wear down naturally.

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

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Fabulous furniture

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Your Skin’s LIFEGUARD

Cindy W. Bryant

Independent Beauty Consultant

Call/Text: 434.841.4490 IneedsomeMaryKay@gmail.com www.YourMaryKayLady.com

SHOP LOCAL/BUY LOCAL When choosing the right home ...

Choose the right agent!

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Stationery Filled With Style Beautiful Jewelry | Unique Gifts

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Karen Hall

Realtor, Sales Manager

434-941-2077

karen@karenwhall.com

Let my experience help you!

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n IMPROVE GRILL STATIONS

GRILL CENTRAL Set up the envy of all grill stations

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

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

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

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

M

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Crank Up the Tunes

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

Safety First

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

Once you’ve eliminated the worst of the grime, turn your grill on high heat and close the lid. This acts like the self-clean option on your oven, burning off any unwanted grit that didn’t respond to elbow grease.

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

Propane users are encouraged to utilize a gas monitor gauge. This little gadget allows you to keep a close eye on the amount of fuel you have in the tank so you can avoid a heartbreaking halfcooked burger. Charcoal users should have charcoal on hand, of course, and a method to light the coals. You can use lighter fluid or a chimney, which eliminates the flavor that can be left by lighter fluid. Chimneys can be lit with crumpled newspaper or paraffin lighter cubes (available at most hardware stores and online retailers).

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

cooler!) and allow for extra seating. Small fans help combat pesky bugs and also keep you cool while you master the grill.

If you’ll have a lot of little ones running around, designate a spot a safe distance from the grill and install a chalkboard or a children’s kitchen so they can feel involved in the process.

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

Accessorizing Your Space

The Grilling Station

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

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

Pre-made grilling blends can be picked up at your local grocery store, but sometimes it’s more fun to make your own. Grab a small ramekin and experiment. For blends with a kick, employ options like cayenne pepper and Creole seasoning. For sweeter varieties, try mixing honey, pepper jelly and honey mustard.

When you find the perfect creation, make a slightly larger batch and store it in an airtight container so it’s readily available for that inevitable last-minute cookout.

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

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n GARDEN PORCH SWINGS

Groove

Garden in your

Porch swings add style and comfort to your outdoor space

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

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

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

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

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

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Have a pleasant summer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Swings always should hang from a sturdy roof joist.

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

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

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

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

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

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

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

BY N O EL L E M I L A M

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

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

install a new one, will have one eye on the functionality of a material, but another on the aesthetics of their material of choice and how it works within the decor of the kitchen and the home itself.

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

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

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

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

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Natural Stone

(Examples: Granite, Marble, Soapstone, Limestone, Quartzite) Natural stone remains the number-one choice for countertops in our area. Unmatched in beauty and completely unique, every slab will have differences in pattern and hue, complements of Mother Nature. Because of this uniqueness, natural stone will never look completely uniform or color-consistent. This is seen as a strength to some, and a drawback to others. Chris Hargis of Pinnacle Cabinetry explains that, while some people may be frustrated by stone’s lack of uniform pattern, particularly when trying to match countertop materials at the inevitable seams, most find that the natural beauty is worth it. “It’s like art you look at and use everyday,” he says.

Of the natural stone choices, granite is the most beloved (and most used) because of its durability. If properly sealed, granite is virtually stain-proof, and is impervious to scratches and heat and water damage. In fact, if you cut vegetables directly on a granite countertop with regularity, you’ll find your knives will dull quickly. The natural variations in granite are stunning, but can pose challenges for someone trying to match paint or cabinet colors to a small sample-square of stone. Hargis recommends that customers who are in the market for natural stone take the time to drive to a distributor, where you can see multiple examples of the type of granite you’re considering. “Invest some time beforehand,” he suggests. “That way you’ll be prepared for the variations of pattern and color in natural stone before you place an order.”

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

“Softer” stones, like marble, limestone or soapstone are also very popular choices, due to their color and texture. But often, because of their softness, they will chip or scar in the daily wear and tear of family life. With its matte finish and soft “soaplike” feel, soapstone is a perennial favorite. Soapstone is particularly popular in our area of Virginia, as we are home to the sole soapstone quarry (Alberene in Nelson County) left in the United States. In Virginia, soapstone is the “buy local” of countertop materials. Tracy Kearney of Cornerstone Cabinets in Lynchburg acknowledges the popularity of marble and soapstone in particular, but recommends caution when choosing softer natural stone countertops because of their susceptibility to scratches and chips, and, particularly for lighter-colored stone, such as Carrera marble, which can be frustratingly prone to staining. “There are many more durable alternatives out there,” says Kearney. For those who love light-colored natural stone, Kearney suggests investigating quartzite. “It’s a natural quartz rock,” she explains, “which is also extremely strong and even slightly translucent.” She recommends this beauty for smaller areas, or as accents, due to its expense and smaller sheet size.

In recent years customers have been given more choice about the surface finish of their natural stone countertops. For those who are looking for something a little different from the glossy, polished stone look, fabricators are now offering honed, matte, or “leathered” finishes that are increasing in popularity. Whatever finish you choose, keep in mind that all natural stone will need to be professionally sealed before installation, and depending on your stone, at regular intervals in the years to come. For most natural stone countertops, subsequent sealing can usually be done easily by the homeowner.

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Engineered Stone (Also Known as Quartz)

Engineered stone, as its name implies, is indeed real stone (usually 93 percent reclaimed marble, granite or quartz) that is finely ground, and mixed with a durable binding material. The engineered stone products of today display the beauty of the natural stone they are made from, yet are very uniform, which makes it easier for installers to hide seams, and they are slightly easier to fabricate and install. Different manufacturers such as Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria and Hanstone specialize in mimicking specific natural stone, explains Eggleston. “It’s rather like blue jeans manufacturers, in that everyone has their niche,” she says.

Eggleston has also noted an uptick in popularity of quartz that comes in the soft, neutral colors of Carrera marble or limestone. As homeowners are tending to prefer a lighter, brighter surface for their countertops, they can opt for the durable quartz lookalike, rather than putting in marble and stressing about stains every time they pour a glass of wine.

“Also, it’s hard to find granites in soft colors,” Eggleston says, “but with quartz, the possibilities are plentiful.” Her one caution is to avoid putting anything hotter that 350 degrees on quartz.

“It’s in the fine print from the manufacturer,” she says, “so I always recommend care with super-hot cookware.” With its nonexistent maintenance requirements, natural look, and excellent durability, it’s easy to see why quartz is the “up and coming” material for many of today’s countertops.

Cornerstone Cabinets and Design’s Tracy Kearney adds that since quartz is durable, and never needs sealing, “It is increasingly a popular choice for homeowners in Central Virginia.” It is nearly as strong as natural stone and far less porous than natural stone, meaning that it is less likely to stain, and it never needs sealing, so it is virtually maintenance-free. For these reasons, she explains, “Quartz is becoming more popular each year.”

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Synthetic Solid Surface (Examples: Corian, Living Stone) Synthetic solid surface countertops are made of polyester resins, acrylic and pigments. They stand up to natural stone and engineered stone in terms of durability and often come with generous warranties. They are completely non-porous, and stain-, mildew- and germ-resistant, and these days can be made to look like virtually anything from stone, to copper, to beach sand.

For those with a strict decorating palette, the color choices are extensive, and can come in finishes from glossy to matte. While synthetic solid surfaces shouldn’t have hot pots or pans placed on them, and shouldn’t be cut directly upon, it is a simple matter to buff out most light scratches and homeowners appreciate that there is zero maintenance for these countertops.

A large number of the calls I receive come from someone seeing my ad in Central Virginia HOME magazine– I have people tell me all the time that they’ve seen me in HOME. I really enjoy working with Julie and the HOME team because of their professionalism and high standards. I would highly recommend advertising with HOME if you want to see a return on your advertising dollars. I look forward to many more years working with them!

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Laminate/Formica

Laminate countertops are a budget-friendly alternative as a countertop material, and as such, they have been popular since the 1950s. Laminate countertops are made from wood, or pressed wood, wrapped in a “laminate”—a heavy-duty vinyl material imprinted with the customer’s choice of color or pattern.

Laminate is generally easy to install, and because it does not require specialized tools and is relatively lightweight, it is a solid choice for a DIY countertop project. These days laminate comes in every color under the sun, including patterns and finishes, and if treated gently (no cutting directly on laminate, and don’t place hot dishes or pots directly on in) will stand up to years of use.

Wood/Butcher Block

Wood countertops, made from hardwoods such as maple, oak or walnut, and increasingly bamboo, are naturally anti-bacterial and infuse the home with a warmth unachievable in other countertop materials. Wood countertops are formed by running the wooden rails parallel to each other (known as “edge grain”) or by fusing the end of the rails in a chessboard pattern (known as “end grain”). Of the two, end grain will be the most durable, but will also be the most expensive. Proponents of wooden countertops cite the convenience of the ability to chop and dice right on the countertop (assuming it is sealed with a food-safe sealant, rather than polyurethane), and the ease of cleaning (usually just warm soapy water), as well as the warm, rustic feel wood imparts to any room. Be advised that wood will scorch if hot pans are placed on it directly, and requires regular sanding and oiling

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to keep it looking its best. It is also advisable to wipe up water spills and drips as standing water can cause warping or mildew.

Because of the upkeep and care requirements, many local designers recommend wood countertops in more of an “accent” role. Hargis explains that while they love the charm of wooden countertops, at Pinnacle Cabinetry, they don’t recommend them for the whole kitchen countertop. “It is a great way to accent a bar or island prep area,” Hargis says. “Just be careful around sinks.”

Concrete

Concrete is no longer just a material to be used in foundations and flooring, but is becoming increasingly popular as a countertop material. Concrete can be poured into any shape, and is often a “green” choice due to its use of recycled or recyclable elements such as glass and aggregate. Concrete is naturally porous and needs to be carefully mixed to minimize chipping or stains, and professionally sealed to preserve its durability.

But in terms of shape, texture and color, it is almost endlessly customizable. The thing that often attracts homeowners to trying out this versatile material in their homes is that objects such as shells, glass or metal can be actually manufactured into the countertop itself, making for an ultra-customized countertop with heirloom potential.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is the material of choice in commercial or industrial kitchens, but it is increasingly becoming popular as a countertop material in residential kitchens as well. Prized for its durability, it has found a new place in the sleek, modernindustrial look which is very popular today. Taking its place next to the stainless appliances that have been popular for years, stainless steel is relatively easy to install (professional installers will “wrap” it around a backing material like plywood to give added strength and to attach it to the cabinets). Stainless has practically no upkeep and is easy to clean. It doesn’t scorch, stain or mildew, and scratches can be buffed out easily, though dents can sometimes be a problem. Stainless is 100 percent recyclable, making it an earth-friendly alternative as well.

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Other than the material itself, what else can affect the price of your new countertops? Pricing of most countertops is done by square foot. There are three basic things that affect the pricing of your countertop material.

First, the availability and location of the material: If you choose limestone from India, for example, you can expect the per-square-foot price to reflect not only the stone but the quarrying and transport costs for the stone.

Second, the complexity of your design, including sink placement and countertop inserts like integrated drain boards and trivets, affects the complexity (and therefore cost) of fabrication. Finally, your choice of edge for your countertops—round, ogee, bevel, bullnose, waterfall and many more depending on your fabricator—will affect your final price. Just be sure you know what is included with your per-square-foot price and what might be an upcharge to avoid any unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives. It’s also a good idea to ask about warranties available for the material and the installation, just in case.

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

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n GARDEN FLORAL DESIGN TUTORIAL

life

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

P h ot o gr a p hy by M a r y Ell e n L a Fre ni e re

Bringing Your Flower Arrangements to

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P h ot o gr a p hy by M a r y Ell e n L a Fre ni e re

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

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

Choosing Your Flowers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

P h ot o gr a p hy by M a r y Ell e n L a Fre ni e re

P h ot o gr a p hy by St a c y B au e r c vhomemaga zine .com 4 5

A Flower-Arranging Tutorial

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

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

Now to arrange:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

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

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

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

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n LIVE CULINARY CORNER

Peach Season!

BY LU CY CO O K

M

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy cooking!

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

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

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

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

Serving idea: In a wine glass, layer two small scoops of ice cream with additional peach slices. Pour a cup of chilled Italian Muscat over each glass to make a grown-up version of a peach soda. c vhomemaga zine .com 4 9

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

1 large peach, peeled and diced ½ fresh jalapeno chili, carefully seeded and chopped 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh ginger root 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon lemon juice Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl; season to taste with salt and pepper.

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

For the filling:

Peach and Berry Shortcakes (makes about 8)

3 large peaches, peeled and sliced

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

½ pint raspberries (or strawberries)

For shortcakes:

For the cream:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon lemon juice 2 tablespoons sugar

4 ounces mascarpone cheese

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 cup chilled whipping cream

½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup sugar

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger 1 ½ cups heavy cream, divided

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

3 tablespoons butter, melted

and sugar; set aside for at least 30 minutes.

2 tablespoons raw sugar

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

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

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

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

form. Mix in the sugar and vanilla.

the dough comes together, adding more cream as necessary.

To assemble: Split warm shortcakes. Mound a heaping spoonful

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sprinkle a few additional raspberries on the plate. Pass remaining

minutes until browned and baked through.

cream alongside.

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Style it “Traditional/Funky” Home built in the 1970s is a mash-up of the best kind

BY J ES S I E T H O M P S O N P h ot o gr a p hy by KG T hi e n e m a nn 52

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

T

here are many styles of houses, many variations on themes. But the home of Geri and Lamar Cecil on Mountain Laurel Drive in Lynchburg defies all categories.

Still, from the moment Geri toured the home years ago while it was being built, it resonated. The Palladian-influenced architecture, marble floors throughout and salvaged antique woodwork appealed to her, but the timing wasn’t right.

She and Lamar married in 1996 (she had to convince him to move from Lexington where he was the William R. Kenan Professor of History at Washington

and Lee), and they settled into an 1840s farmhouse on Old Trents Ferry Road. It had 30 acres, including land along Judith Creek, several old outbuildings, a barn, and a tennis court. And those things required—as many older homes do—a lot of maintenance.

“We thought the house needed to be enjoyed by a big family, with children playing and dogs barking, and friends hanging out,” says Geri.

So, in 2009, there were stirrings of moving. But they wanted a house that could be made into a home for them, one with life and character. And one night,

Geri says she had a dream—randomly— about the house on Mountain Laurel.

While lunching with a friend the next day, she learned the house was, indeed, on the market.

She convinced Lamar to take a look.

To him, the house—which is built around a spectacular, octagonal central room that measures 26 feet by 26 feet with 26-foottall ceilings—seemed dark, and a bit choppy. What made them buy it anyway?

“We have vision,” deadpans Lamar, who studied architecture in his native Texas before pursuing a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins.

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Demo Days

After a home inspection revealed issues, some of them more than just cosmetic, the couple decided to take a leap. They consulted with Lynchburg contractor Tim Reynolds, whom they had hired for various other projects throughout the years.

“Every job we ever do for them grows,” says Reynolds, who has been working as a contractor for almost 40 years, and has done work for the Cecils for at least 15. “They’ve been real good people to work with; their jobs are always unique, and it always comes together … their colors, artwork and furniture—once it’s all in, it always looks good.”

Reynolds says he worked with a main crew of about five or six men for at least four months on the job starting in January 2010, with as many as 25 workers being there at times.

One of the first projects was the removal of a half-bath and a coat closet from the grand front hall. Another was removing the exterior back wall, which was damaged. Not content to simply resurrect a new wall, the Cecils added a sunroom/library, the 5 4

shape of which the couple designed around a Serapi rug they loved. That, and the card table, adds Lamar, which is necessary for their frequent bridge games.

“It’s really the right size for more intimate gatherings,” says Lamar, adding he and Geri appreciate the craftsmanship Reynolds brought to the new space, including built-in bookcases, huge floor-to-ceiling windows, and custom crown moldings, roughly 20 inches deep. Although new, they maintain the character of the older details in the house.

Other big projects included adding a new bathroom and remodeling an existing one, enclosing two separate, side porches, and reconfiguring the kitchen and pantry/laundry area to be a more practical space to house Lamar’s extensive china collections. There were plenty of “little jobs,” too, including reworking interior walls, updating electrical and plumbing work, and reinforcing an underground garage that spans the width of the house.

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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Attending to the Grandeur

Once the floorplan was in place, there were literally hundreds of details throughout the house the Cecils wanted to showcase.

The front hall’s Art Deco bronze doors (once belonging to the Post Office downtown) were buffed, and the walls were brightened with a creamy color base, which was then faux painted by Lamar to look like stacked marble blocks (a technique called Ashlar). The intricate dentil crown moldings match those in the great room, and marble floors used extensively throughout the home begin here. And Lamar’s extensive collection of Chinese export Armorial porcelain from the 1700s is displayed in Chinese Chippendale hanging shelves.

To the right of the hallway is the kitchen, the only space the Cecils say they didn’t change considerably. (Still, they removed some cabinetry, moved ovens from the kitchen to the pantry, added a larger refrigerator and fun, blue pendant lighting—among other things.)

To the left, what was once “the rumpus room,” became the dining room, one of the 5 6

Cecils’ favorite in the house.

Enormous leaded windows have translucent glass, which lends an intimacy to the space.

Intricate walnut paneling, rumored to have been created from a tree that once stood on the property, was transformed with vibrant green paint on the walls, and a red stripe in the ceiling molding. The ceiling was painted a bright sky blue, and the Cecils added an ornate crystal chandelier that helps create just the right lighting for the dinner parties they love to throw. The china placed throughout the room on shelves and walls might just be plucked and pressed into service if there is a need.

They brought an Irish marble mantel from the farmhouse, and opted to install it in the dining room; this necessitated bringing in one wall by about three feet to accommodate a gas log set and its firebox.

“We love having a house for entertaining,” says Geri. “We like to sit down for dinner and really have conversation, and a room like this allows for that.

It’s fun to use.” It helps, laughs Geri, that Lamar is a fabulous cook who enjoys combining multiple courses, and takes pride in not only the taste of the food, but its presentation.

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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The dining room also opens into the great room, another space the Cecils use for entertaining. The room, big enough to hold dozens and dozens comfortably, is thought to have been inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. Illuminated solely by ceiling windows, the room boasts two fireplaces, both adorned with marble mantels that were created from the tops of columns that once stood atop a bank building downtown. The woodwork is stunning. There is intricate dentil molding along the ceiling that is mirrored in the eight pediments above each of the door frames, along with tremendous oak pocket doors—all of which came from the ballroom of the Elks Club that once stood downtown.

“I danced as a young bride in that room,” smiles Geri, adding she’s glad to see the pieces were saved.

Despite the room’s size, the Cecils have placed furniture and rugs strategically, creating several comfortable seating areas, as well as a spot for a grand piano. The rich red color also helps create warmth.

Geri originally wanted the walls, which are covered in grasscloth, to be painted yellow. Their painter, Dwight

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Stone, politely disagreed, suggesting a red, but honored their choice. Checking on his progress, Geri said she came in and saw the color on the walls and knew it wasn’t right. After several other unsuccessful colors, Geri and Lamar let Stone pick the color, and red won out. Not ones to shy away from color, they opted for an orange above the crown molding, and blue around the skylights.

They’ve hosted hundreds at a time, and love having the space to do so.

“We just want our guests to be comfortable,” says Geri.

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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The Cecils’ master bath contains a sunken shower complete with three shower heads.

Their grandchildren enjoy stopping the drain and using it as a swimming pool/bathtub combo when they visit.

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Perchance to Dream

The home boasts three bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. The master suite, painted a slightly greenish shade of yellow, features a private dressing area, two walk-in closets with customized shelving units, and Lamar’s office, which was created by enclosing one of the side porches.

The piece-de-resistance in their bedroom proper, however, is an eight-paneled screen that Lamar himself painted to resemble an ancient city. Mounted directly to the wall, it serves as a tremendous headboard. (In its original location in an earlier dining room, Lamar cut holes in it to mount sconces; those pieces were glued back into place.)

Two sets of doors, complete with transoms, open to the patio and grand, marble pool.

Around one corner is the master bath. The sunken shower, complete with three showerheads, is so large their grandchildren plug the drain and use it as a swimming pool/bathtub when visiting.

On the other side of the great room are the additional bedrooms. One, a periwinkle color with two tall, antique four-poster beds, is perfect for company. It also opens to the bluestone terrace behind the house. The Cecils updated its dedicated bathroom when they purchased the house, allowing guests to have some privacy.

The other bedroom, painted a sunshine yellow, features a custom upholstered queen-sized bed, along with doors that open to the back patio. A newly added bathroom—a bright pink that makes everyone’s complexion look great—features a wall-mount sink and a custom-built marble shower.

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Art, Art Everywhere

Throughout the home, there are pieces of art. This, say the Cecils, is what sets the tone of their home. Paintings include impressive portraits, including two by Taylor Harbison; works

by Lynchburg’s own Christopher Burch, Annie Massie, David Eakin, and Steve Endres; paintings by well-known European artists; and a new favorite which is a huge painting from the opera La Boehme, painted by one of Spence White’s students at Jefferson Forest High School to benefit Opera on the James.

Tables, too—end tables, desks and coffee tables—also hold artwork, pieces that mean something, along with numerous family photos.

Much of the furniture could be considered art as well; the couple has amassed a large collection of Georgian furniture, and is always on the lookout for pieces that resonate. Throughout the remodeling process—and life—Geri and Lamar agree that they 6 4

enjoy collecting things, anything, as long as they love it. Their eclectic style suits their personalities and their philosophies on life. Geri recounts the story of watching a well-known Japanese artist painstakingly working on a staircase mural depicting an outdoor scene. With wonder, she asked him what if he made a mistake. His response has resonated with her: “If I make a mistake, it becomes a butterfly.”

She has never felt buying the house on Mountain Laurel Drive was a mistake, and that it will always be a work in progress.

They are always adding a shot of color here or there—most recently it was a bright orange stripe to the wall around the pool.

“This house is absolutely perfect for a couple in our circumstances,” says Geri. “It’s all on one floor, there are three bedrooms and three bathrooms … we can entertain as many and as much as we want, and we still have our privacy. It’s the best of all worlds.”

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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n LIVE FITNESS TRENDS

TRENDING

now

n CTIONAL FITNESS u f

BY A L AYA S E X TO N

In my over-20-year career as a health and fitness professional, I have seen and participated in nearly every fitness trend to come down the pipeline, from Cardio Box and Urban Rebounding® to YogaFit® and CrossFit®. Locally, I see current trends most prevalent in small, boutique studios—but they are accessible to anyone with inclination and motivation. Our modern, screenbased jobs compared to more active/manual labor jobs of the past have contributed to a more sedentary lifestyle; some experts even propose that “sitting is the new smoking.” In response, many of the current ways to work out are bringing function back to our bodies in an attempt to reverse the negative affects of a sedentary lifestyle. These workouts can be self-directed in your home, at your gym or even on a playground. If choosing the self-sufficient path, I recommend that you spend a little time with a trainer face to face before embarking on a self-driven fitness journey; the initial investment will reap tremendous dividends toward results and injury prevention.

Current fitness trends all have one thing in common: functional fitness. More specifically stated, functional fitness exercises train our bodies in multiple planes of motion by using whole-body integrated movements rather than isolated movements. Joseph Pilates, the creator of Pilates, says it best 6 6

in his 1945 book, Return to Life Through Contrology: “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness ... the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily and satisfactorily performing our many and varied tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure.”

I’m a pragmatist, a mom and a business owner, so I want effective and efficient ways to workout. Many of the current fitness activities embody practicality and are in the realm of making your life better through quality movement. Being a seasoned Pilates trainer and exercise science nerd, I enjoy seeing this trend come out of my little world into the greater fitness context. Jerrod Ruhl, owner of Lynchburg CrossFit, agrees. “I see a trend toward capability being the measuring stick as opposed to what I look like in the mirror. How much can I deadlift, squat, clean? As opposed to, how skinny do I look?” Recently, CrossFit has gained tremendous popularity. CrossFit-style workouts include constantly varied functional movements performed at relatively high intensity, and these movements reflect aspects of gymnastics, weightlifting and more. Fresh, functional workouts can be attractive and breathe new life into a fitness regime, especially when infused with a sense of accomplishment, capability and play.

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Core-Focused Training

It is no surprise that core-focused formats are trending—they work! Many of the popular core classes are some reformulation of the classic core conditioning, Pilates. Julie Preston, a local Pilates expert, believes, “Embracing the Pilates principles stands alone as the single-most beneficial personal outcome of fitness.

Pilates is not about abdominal exercises, it’s about your life— moving well from our center, our powerhouse.” With a distinct Pilates flair, barre classes mix ballet conditioning, functional fitness, dance, and are set to music. Some barre classes bring your heart rate up, while others focus on toning. Choose barre if you enjoy rhythmic exercise or need a new form of cardio. Barre classes are great cross training for runners and anyone wanting to firm up. Outside of barre classes, there are many core fusion or hybrid classes offered locally, and the self-sufficient exerciser can subscribe to PilatesAnytime for the best cache of online core workouts including barre.

TRX Suspension Training

The TRX® Suspension Trainer™ was born in the American military’s special forces. Stuck in a wharfside warehouse waiting for a mission for days on end makes a Navy Seal get creative and turn some nylon straps into a versatile workout tool. These nylon straps evolved to become the TRX Suspension Trainer. Tracey White, a seasoned local trainer, has a penchant for incorporating the TRX Suspension Trainer into all client programs. She finds the device’s versatility to be a significant benefit. “It is scalable for intensity and overall ability. We use this with everyone—from our elderly clients, to improve balance and off-load aging joints, to our young athletes,” says White. There are so many wonderful ways to experience TRX and you’ll find various classes all over town. When choosing a place to experience TRX, be sure that you choose a credentialed trainer. Find their qualifications at www.trxtraining.com. There, you can also purchase your own straps, and download workouts and apps.

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High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Experts all agree that high intensity interval training (HIIT) is on target and here to stay. This form of exercise brings your heart rate up, then pauses to take it down in cycles. Peer-reviewed research has validated why it’s effective. Izumi Tabata extensively researched the staple HIIT rhythm, concluding that 20 seconds of maximal work followed by 10 seconds of rest for 4 minutes delivered optimal performance.

Chris Frankel, program director at Fitness Anywhere/TRX gives the most important advice to HIIT workouts. “High intensity interval training is built on strong, focused, biomechanically sound movements,” he explains. At local gyms, HIIT classes may have HIIT in the description rather than the title because the concept can be applied so many ways. HIIT programs can be created with no equipment, or by using kettlebells, barbells/dumbbells or suspension trainers. Many CrossFit-style workouts incorporate HIIT. Download the GymBoss timer app to create your Tabata workouts with your bodyweight.

For classes, check out the class schedule at any of the following studios and gyms:

Obstacle Race Training

Peakland Pilates

Thanks in part to the success of Kacy Catanzaro in the American Ninja Warrior challenge, and the fact that NBC Sports is now televising Spartan® Races, this category of extreme bodyweight training will continue to experience exponential growth over the coming year. Think playground fun for adults! There are various ways for fitness professionals to apply their knowledge to design a proper program for obstacle races.

At Peaksview Park, you’ll find stations along the paved trail to hone your climbing and gymnastics skills.

Exercise that creates function and muscular balance will not only sculpt a strong body, but improve quality of life. When enlisting the help of a professional, ask them about their experience and training to discern if they can craft a customized workout for you.

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n GARDEN THE BEST ANNUALS

The New Old-Faithful Flowers Learn about the latest in annuals

BY B ECK Y C A LV ER T

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

“As times change, growers work to incorporate new varieties into our traditional stand-bys. They add new colors, better heat tolerance, larger sizes, and more resiliency,” says Philip Helbling of Virginia Garden Supply, explaining why there are new versions of old varieties being introduced every year.

Among Helbling’s favorites being introduced this year are “Caliplosion Purple” calibrachoa, “Dahlightful Georgia Peach” dahlias and the “Bossa Nova” begonias. With elegant cascading leaves and large bell-shaped flowers that come in a variety of bright colors, the Bossa Nova begonia makes for a dramatic addition to a hanging basket, although if Helbling had to choose a favorite from this year’s new offerings, it would be the petunia-resembling calibrochoa. “They give such great color and variations. They do wonderfully through the early spring, but they can struggle during the heat of the summer. If you don’t give up on them, you will be rewarded with their comeback in the fall.” The Caliplosion Purple, with its solid pinkish-purple base and bright yellow center, makes a dramatic argument for hanging on during those hot spells. c vhomemaga zine .com 71

For annuals that attract bees and butterflies, consider the “Painted Red” Bidens with their half red-orange, half yellow blooms that will add color in addition to attracting beautiful butterflies.

Favored for their heat-loving, drought-tolerant characteristics, Helbling includes the new Bidens on his list of this year’s favorites. Another annual that adds vibrant color while attracting wildlife are zinnias. Rainfrost Nursery’s Martha Dudley cites the “Uptown Frosted Strawberry” zinnia, a large double flower in shades of pink, among her favorites, as well the new “Luscious Pinkberry” lantana, with its pink and yellow bicolor blooms that are also popular with butterflies. Along with snapdragons, Dudley lists lantana among her favorite annuals in part because they perform so well, calling them “two of the hardest performing annuals I know. I plant them every year and they are diehards—hard blooming and most forgiving when I am late with water.”

Both Dudley and Helbling agree on the newest coleus, the often-underrated shade-loving ornamental plant with colorful foliage, as some of the more interesting offerings of the year. Among some of the new varieties this year are “Under the Sea Copper Coral” coleus, with frilly, textured pink, green and cream leaves whose shape resembles the ocean organism. “Campfire” coleus, with its rustorange color, can be used dramatically in the garden to pair with nearby hues.

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

“There appear to be a lot of orange and peach shades which I love and which I see folks asking for more and more often.

They combine really well with the bright and the soft pinks,” says Dudley, adding, “There truly is nothing like annuals for color in the garden.”

If fragrant is more up your alley, then perhaps consider nemesia. Says Dudley, “Nemesia is a great plant and is usually fragrant. Hopefully the newest cultivar will not disappoint.” With its brilliant orange-hued blooms and tolerance to both cold and heat, the “Sunsatia Blood Orange” nemesia is certain to light up your garden, while the “Blueberry a la Mode” nemesia, with its blue and yellow fragrant flowers, is an ideal alternative to the pansy for a cool-weather flower.

Although there are new plants to choose from every year, it can take some time for the latest and greatest to make their way to local markets. Dudley explains that most independent garden centers source the majority of their annuals from local family owner growers, who don’t always have the newest annuals.

It can take some time for large quantities of these newer annuals to become available locally, in part due to the “trial and error” of seeing how new varieties respond to the local environment, says Helbling. Thankfully, there are enough tried and true annuals on offer to keep gardeners content with what is available year after year while keeping our gardens, patio pots and hanging baskets colorful and in bloom all season.

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n DESIGN DINING CHAIRS

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

BY CY N T H I A B EM EN T

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

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Before You Buy: Consider Space and Function

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

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

Measure your table, as well, to determine the space between its legs on each side so you can determine how many of your new chairs can fit around it (a good rule of thumb is to allow 24 inches of width along your dining table per chair). Also measure the table’s clearance from the floor to the bottom of its apron so that any arm chairs you choose can slide fully under the table. Also allow about 10 to 12 inches between the chair seat and bottom of the table apron for comfortable leg space. Lastly, measure the size of your dining area and consider traffic patterns, so that you can allow for maneuvering room around the chairs when pulled out from the table, and for chair placement in the dining space if you are placing seldom-used or supplemental chairs. c vhomemaga zine .com 75

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

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

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

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

Approach the Bench

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

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

Build a Banquette

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

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

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

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n LIVE PATRIOTIC PARTIES

CELEBRATE

Summer with

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

BY M EG A N JA NS EN

Summer’s the time for us to celebrate America’s holidays; Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day are all national holidays that call for the red, white and blue.

With national holidays unofficially marking the beginning and end of summer fun, it could be argued that these are the official theme colors of summer! c vhomemaga zine .com 79

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If you’re planning a get-together, just look around your house, and you’ll probably find items to use in a patriotic color scheme: a blue-striped or red-checkered tablecloth, a navy blue sheet, colored placemats or napkins to set under serving dishes… you may already have more items than you think, that when combined, make a patriotic display. On your buffet table, you can make things more interesting by using various heights with (napkin-covered) cake stands or cookie tins. Spend on something that provides some pop like a red, white and blue bunting or colorful paper lanterns. Show your spirit by flying “Old Glory” off your deck, at the front door, or from a flag holder mounted on a tree; line your front path with miniature versions of our flag easily accessible this time of year at the dollar store or online.

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

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

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

Top off your party with some games— horseshoes and old-fashioned corn hole.

You could even redecorate your plain corn hole boards with patriotic-colored duct tape for the occasion.

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July Fun

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

A Nautical Party

Your red, white and blue from May to September can easily become a nautical theme just by the addition of a bit of yellow.

To have fun with the nautical theme, incorporate nautical flags.

It’s easy to find a “key” online that translates alphabet letters into nautical flag equivalents. Decorate with flag “words” such as your name, “love,” “summer” or “enjoy” made from pieces of construction paper glued to a background. Each guest can make his or her own name on a sheet you have prepared with the correct flags for each name, using his “flag key” to arrange the letters.

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

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

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

Sporting clam diggers with a parrot on their shoulder? That’s the fun of a theme.

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n IMPROVE ROOF MAINTENANCE

ROOF CARE Protect the roof that protects you

BY J ER RY H A L E

Every homeowner dreads discovering that the roof overhead needs major repair or replacement.

Roof work is a significant expense, and one for which only the most foresighted earmark savings.

So it behooves us all to think about how to extend the serviceable life of the roof that’s now keeping us dry.

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

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■K eep

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

■ Watch

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

■G utter

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

■D o

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

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

■R oof

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

■W hat’s

in attics can be a source of roof problems.

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

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

■H ave

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

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Special Advice For Metal Roofs

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

That said, here are some metal roof checkpoints: ■ Repair

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

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

■ Keep

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

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

■ Fasteners

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

■ Inspect

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

■ If

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

Cedar Shake Roofs

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

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

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

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Creating an Outdoor Room Function, Form and Fun

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

BY R O RY R H O D ES

S

ummertime is made for outdoor living.

Whether it’s a cup of coffee in the morning sun, an afternoon in the shade with lemonade and a good book, or dinner under the stars serenaded by crickets and cicadas, these long summer days and languid twilights entice us to spend time relaxing with Mother Nature.

Creating an inviting “outdoor room” allows you to enjoy al fresco time in comfort. Whether it’s right outside of your sliding doors or a destination down the garden path, an outdoor room is more than just a patio with chairs; it’s an exterior space that feels like an extension of your home.

An outdoor room can be big or small, grand or simple, as long as it’s a place that seems both intentional and inviting.

Picking the Perfect Spot

Screened porches, verandas and covered patios, pergolas and gazebos are all natural spots for an outdoor room. They provide shade and shelter, as well as define the parameters of the outdoor room.

If you have one of these features on your property, chances are it’s already at least basically outfitted for outdoor time.

You can also create an outdoor room on an open terrace or patio by framing the space yourself. If shade is desired, you can purchase a metal garden gazebo or shade sail for the season, or even build a basic pergola.

For long-term goals, wooden pergolas look wonderful when softened by a climbing vine such as clematis, wisteria or climbing rose. If you prefer not to use a manmade structure, small trees planted near the edge of a terrace can also be your “roof.” Crepe myrtles offer summer flowers and an arching shape that works well for an open-air room, while Eastern redbuds are relatively fast growers with heart-shaped foliage. A simple shade solution for smaller spaces is a market umbrella, which these days are readily available in an array of colors and options. Along with the traditional style, market umbrellas can be square or rectangular, tiltable, feature built-in lighting, and come with different stands for various furniture arrangements.

Cantilevered or offset umbrellas are a good option for a seating group, since the base can be placed behind the furniture instead of in the middle of the action. c vhomemaga zine .com 8 9

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Defining the Space

Part of what gives an outdoor space the feeling of a “room” is the illusion of having at least one wall or boundary. If your outdoor room is against your house, you’re probably all set. But if you’re creating a space that is free-standing, there are several options.

Large potted plants are a great way to define the borders of your space. Use them at the corners, or several in a row for a living wall. If you have, or can install, a low retaining wall, it will both define the space and provide extra seating. An outdoor rug will make the space feel like a designated gathering area, and anchor your outdoor furniture. You might also be able to play around with your furniture placement to create a sense of boundaries.

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

Privacy

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

There are modern updates to that old privacy standby, lattice, that can work for both structures and open spaces. “Square” lattice, as opposed to the traditional diamond style, is a fresh, tidy look that offers privacy and diffuses light without overly darkening the space. Try framing out individual panels of lattice, which can then be hung from a beam or built on a stand.

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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

Using a free-standing screen offers the additional bonus of moving it when and where it’s needed. A privacy screen made of horizontal boards looks modern and clean, and using reclaimed lumber will give it rustic charm. Shutters can also be mounted into a frame— paint them a fun color for extra interest. Outdoor rollup woven blinds and curtains are easy and attractive options for spaces that have a beam or pole for hanging.

A fun variation you can do yourself is to use industrial pipe for rods, and canvas drop cloths for curtains. Attach the curtains to the rods with large curtain ring clips, and use jute rope for tiebacks. It’s an affordable option that adds effortless style!

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Light up the Night

Function, Furnishings and Fabrics

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

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

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

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

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

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

Budget-friendly options like twinkle and strand lights provide a romantic, bohemian feel. Simple tiki torches from the garden center can also add a bit of brightness to the night (and possibly repel mosquitos, to boot). Outdoor chandeliers don’t have to be hard-wired; some of the most enchanting pieces feature candles arranged in everything from antique wrought iron to mason jars and reclaimed wood. A funky old chandelier from an antique or thrift store can be easily repurposed for a unique feature. For exotic, Old World glamour, hang a cluster of Moroccan lanterns at varying heights from a beam or tree branch. They come in an array of shapes and colors, and those with pierced metal housings will cast gentle, intricate patterns on nearby surroundings. There are also tabletop versions of such lanterns, as well as more traditional options like hurricane lanterns framed in metal, rattan, or even rope, which convey a clean, modern feel.

Remember that, while light is useful, there can also be too much of a good thing. You want a soft glow rather than a deer-in-the-headlights ambiance, so eyelevel lighting that has some sort of shade, or a frosted or colored housing, is always a good choice. Using a low-intensity option, such as a small votive or batteryoperated candle, is easy and inexpensive.

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

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

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Focal Points and Fun Extras

So you’ve got all the essentials for an outdoor room—what can you do to take it to the next level? For many outdoor spaces, a fire feature is the natural focal point. A wood-burning fire pit, whether built-in or simply a large metal bowl, is affordable and fun. Installing a gas fire pit costs more, but offers smokefree fire at the flick of a switch. Fire pit tables are popular and chic, and do double duty for holding food and drinks. Outdoor fireplaces are a welcoming accent to patios, and can also be wood-burning or gas. Some even have built-in pizza ovens or TVs—definitely a “wow” factor! A ceiling fan is a nice extra if your arrangement allows for it, both for the cooling breezes and for keeping flying bugs at bay. A water feature, such as a small pond or fountain, is relaxing and also good for providing white noise where needed.

Finally, don’t forget about purely decorative touches.

Fun or personalized signs, wall planters, interesting architectural pieces of wrought iron from an antique or salvage shop, statues, or even a unique piece of metal garden art can all add a bit of whimsy to an otherwise conventional space. You never know—that three-foot-tall metal rooster you’ve driven past at your local garden store could be the talk of your next barbecue!

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

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

n LIVE ICED TEA

SIT AND SIP A tribute to iced tea

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

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

In addition to its thirst-quenching properties, there are a number of reasons iced tea is a staple of summer. It’s inexpensive and easy to make, offers a variety of health benefits and can be customized in endless ways to suit your personal taste. c vhomemaga zine .com 95

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True Southerners may insist that sweetened heavily with sugar is the only way to drink iced tea, but equal parts swee and unsweet can be just as refreshing—and with half the calories. Or, if you’re a tea purist, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip the sweetener all together (just don’t mention it to your Southern friends).

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

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

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

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

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Tea contains powerful antioxidants, which experts say may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. In fact, according to Dr. John Weisburger, a senior researcher at the Institute for Cancer Prevention, tea has 8 to 10 times the number of antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables. The power of those antioxidants is increased when you add citrus (such as lemon or lime), which also contributes beneficial vitamin C. Adding citrus, mint or other flavors also enhances flavor, which can reduce the urge to add sugar or other sweeteners to your tea. Brewed at home, most unsweetened tea has no calories so choosing a tall glass in lieu of soda or a sports drink will cut sugar intake and unnecessary calories from your diet.

Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016

How to Make Iced Tea

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

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

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

Adding an Extra Kick

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

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

Did you know that June is National Iced Tea Month?

Time to trade in your coffee mug for a tall, refreshing glass of your favorite iced concoction.

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n INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

HOME

Estates Revisited. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Periodontal Health Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Farm Basket. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Perry Pools and Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Fink’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Persian Rugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Flint Property Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Piedmont Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Givens Books and Little Dickens. . . . . . . . . . 28

Pink Lady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Gladiola Girls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Pinnacle Cabinetry & Design. . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Grand Home Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

PIP Printing and Marketing Services. . . . . . . 28

Harman Eye. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Precision Green. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Head and Neck Surgery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Rainfrost Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Hill City Pharmacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Riley Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Interiors by Moyanne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

RM Gantt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Iron & Grace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Select Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Isabella’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Simply Clean by Stacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

James River Day School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Southern Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

James T. Davis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Southern Landscape Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Judy Frantz, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Spectrum Stone Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Karen Hall, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Sunnyside Retirement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Kevin S. Midkiff, DDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Taqueria Tradicional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Cindy Bryant (Mary Kay) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Lauren Bell, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Terrell E Moseley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

CLC Incorporated. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Liberty Christian Academy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

The Art Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

CMC Supply, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Lola’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

The Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Cornerstone Cabinets & Design. . . . . . . . . . 39

Lou’s Auto Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

The Corner at Rivermont. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Coulson Builders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Lynchburg City Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

The Summit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Custom Structures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Lynchburg Dental Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

The Vinyl Porch Rail Company. . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Daniele Mason, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Lynchburg Retail Merchant Association. . . . 28

The Williams Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Davidson & Garrard, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Mable Hamlette-Franklin Mary Kay Cosmetics. 80

Vaughn Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Decorating Den Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Member One Federal Credit Union. . . . . . . . 26

Virginia Commonwealth Games. . . . . . . . . . 96

Dermatology Consultants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Nadine Blakely, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Wellington Builders, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Divine Designs & Delights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

National Pools of Roanoke, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . 15

Westminster Canterbury. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Embrace Home Loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Outtasight Window Tinting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Willis Landscaping, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Estates & Consignments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Paisley Gifts & Stationery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Wired Up Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

CENTRAL

DESIGN

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IMPROVE

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VIRGINIA

GARDEN

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LIVE

Access Advisors, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 American National Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Bank of the James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Blanchette Orthodontics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Blickenstaff & Company Realtors. . . . . . . . . 42 Bowen Jewelery Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Boxley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Brandon Oaks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Capps Home Building Center. . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Centra. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Centra Senior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Central Virginia Orthodontics . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics of Lynchburg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

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Central Virginia HOME Summer 2016