2017 Home & Garden Life by Ad Pro Inc.

Home&Garden 2017

LIFE

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2 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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Table of Contents

Finding the Perfect Vanity ....................... 22 Add drawers ............................................. 24 Give your front door a brand new look .. 26 Mixing Metal and Wood ........................... 28 Make an old fireplace new again............. 36

Attract Wildlife ............................................ 6

Buy Local .................................................. 38

Bed Chic ...................................................... 8

Add more space by using what’s there.. 40

Refresh your Patio ................................... 10

Stay on top of things ................................ 41

Update Your Curtains .............................. 12

Bring Nature into Your Design ................ 44

Edging Your Yard ..................................... 14

Plant a Small Garden ............................... 48

Create a Tile Backsplash ......................... 16

Light it Up .................................................. 50

Homeowners’ spending ........................... 18

Turn a dank basement into a new den ... 54

Elegant Outdoor Spaces.......................... 20

What’s Your Style? ................................... 56

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Attract Wildlife

pring welcomes more than just warm weather. Create a safe, attractive habitat to draw beautiful birds and other welcome wildlife to your backyard. Animals are no different than people when it comes to wanting a safe place to call their own. You can create that safe habitat by knowing which plants will bring a variety of wildlife to your yard. Native Plants A plant is considered native if it occurs naturally in an area without human introduction. These plants have had a relationship with wildlife over thousands of years. Involving these plants in your garden will make wildlife more likely to visit your garden. The best way for you to find out which plants are native to your area is to visit a local nursery. The professionals there can tell you which native plants will draw the most wildlife to your new garden. Welcoming Butterflies Generally, insects get a bad name for being annoying pests that carry diseases. However, butterflies are beautiful insects that will enhance the beauty of your garden and 6 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

assist in pollinating flowers. The National Wildlife Foundation has some great tips on attracting butterflies this spring. • Importance of color: Adult butterflies are attracted to brightly colored flowers. Aim to grow red, yellow, orange and pink blossoms. • Avoid insecticides: Insecticides may keep harmful insects away from your plants, but they also can be fatal to butterflies. • Butterfly rest stops: Butterflies rely on the sun to warm their wings before flying. Place flat stones in a sunny spot in your garden for them to get the sun they need. Bring in the Birds A good indicator of spring’s official arrival is the chorus of different songs and sounds made from a variety of birds. Colorful birds can create beautiful views and sounds for your backyard this spring. The NWF suggests placing a birdbath in your yard as a great way to attract birds. A birdbath also makes a nice accessory to an attractive garden. Hummingbirds can be attracted by planting red, tubular flowers in your yard. You also can find feeders designed for hummingbirds. Hang these feeders in a spot where you relax and watch these unique, colorful birds all spring.

Enjoy the Outdoors

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Bed Chic

Winter has gone, and it’s time to put the flannel sheets in the closet and get ready for warmer nights. Spoil yourself by buying new bedding that adds style to your room and a new level of comfort. Creating a bed that provides style and comfort takes a little effort. Knowing the difference between the various types of bedding and how to use colors and accessories will help you choose the perfect bedding.

Different Types of Bedding

If you have started the search for the new bedding that is perfect for you, you have probably noticed the many different styles available. Decide on the style of bedding that works best for you before choosing a color or pattern. There are three major types of bedding. • Bedspread: A bed cover that typically reaches the floor on all three sides and offers extra fabric to create an attractive fold at the top of the bed. • Comforter: Generally much shorter than a bedspread. It will cover the sides of the bed but will not be nearly long enough to reach the floor. You can use shams to cover the area it doesn’t cover at the top of the bed.

• Quilt: Usually only long enough to cover a bed’s box spring. In addition to a quilt, use a bed skirt if you want your new bedding to reach the floor. Colors and Patterns Before you decide between a pattern or using solid-colored bedding, weigh the pros and cons of both. Solid-colored bedding will give your room a simple and relaxing atmosphere. This doesn’t mean simple must be boring. Choose the main color you want to feature, then layer it with different shades of the same color. Incorporating various shades will keep your bed from looking dull. Patterned bedding also comes with advantages. You can use patterns to pick up different accents from your bedroom. Consider using floral prints to give your bedroom a romantic feel. Accessories Once you have the perfect bedding style that suits your room, you can throw in some extra flair with different accessories. Use window treatments such as matching drapes or scarves to add the finishing touches to your new bedding. Vibrant pillow shams also will complement your new bedding. You can choose shams that go with your existing color scheme or make a bold statement with something totally different.

8 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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Refresh your Patio As the weather begins warming, you may be planning to get more use out of your patio. Patios are the perfect area for outdoor social gatherings. Get your patio in shape this spring by creating a comfortable meeting spot. An attractive patio space can become the focus point of your backyard. Accents such as pillows, mirrors and lights can give your patio a wonderland feel, quickly making it your new favorite spot to relax. Outdoor Lighting Having a well-lit patio gives you the freedom to entertain your guests even when the sun goes down. Installing a lighting system on your patio can be expensive if there is not existing electricity outdoors. Contact a licensed local electrician for a quote to see if it is feasible for your budget. If you’re looking to brighten up your patio on a budget, solar lights are a good option. A simple strategy that can go

a long way is to place solar spotlights around the perimeter of your patio. If you have a ceiling over your patio, consider hanging solar string lights above you. Focus on the Floor Over time, a patio floor can appear less than appealing. Weather can cause cracks or imperfections to your floor. A simple way to hide these imperfections and add some flair to your patio is an area rug.

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There are differences between interior and exterior rugs. A rug that is meant to be kept outside will be made of stronger materials that help it hold up to different weather conditions. Another aspect to consider is the shape of your rug. Plan to choose a rug that is shaped the same as your patio table. For example, a circular rug is a good choice under a circular table. Add Accent Items You can completely change the aspect of your patio by adding a few different accent items. Consider some of these inexpensive items for a fresh new look: • Pillows: Adding colorful pillows to drab or old furniture can give your patio new life.

• Lanterns: Creating a path of lanterns leading to your patio creates an attractive welcome. • Mirrors: If you have an unused fence or wall near your patio, mirrors in rustic frames will give your patio a whimsical feel.

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As spring approaches, so do beautiful flowers, furry animals and sunshine. Now is the perfect time to update your interior window decor so you can have an attractive viewing point from which to watch spring unfold in front of your eyes. Before you decide on which curtains to feature in your home, it is important to know the many different styles and textures available. You also will need to take an accurate measurement of the width of your window and the length of curtain you want. The right curtains can give a dull room a breath of fresh air. Curtain Texture Curtains can help take your home design to the next level. Consider the style of your living room before making a curtain purchase. Is your living room used as a formal area or more of a casual room? Formal areas benefit from heavy silk or velvet curtains. Most curtains from this family are strictly dry-clean only. Decide if you are willing to drag your curtains to a dry cleaner each time they need clean-up. For a dignified curtain that is less restrictive on its washing methods, consider silk rayon blends or cotton sateen. For a casual living room, billowy linen or cotton blends will do the trick. Be sure to read the manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s washing instructions. Even some casual curtains require special cleaning methods. Choosing a Color If you are retaining your existing living room layout, you will need to choose curtains that will complement its current design. When choosing a color, decide if you want your new 12 â&#x20AC;˘ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

curtains to blend in with the room or make a statement. To blend, choose a color a few shades darker than your wall color or existing furniture. If you are aiming to make your curtains pop, choose a bold color that is different from your current color palette. Length The latest trend in interior design is floor-reaching curtains. The amount of curtain that is touching the floor is, of course, a preference. Curtains that extend onto the floor by about 3 inches provide a relaxed and romantic appearance. These longer curtains do require more maintenance and may get in the way during regular housework, such as vacuuming. You may prefer curtains that rise above the floor by a few inches. These are more practical and easier to manage.

2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE â&#x20AC;¢ 13

Edging Your Yard

14 â&#x20AC;˘ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Clean edges around your flower gardens and walkways give your borders a neat, attractive appearance. Creating these edges is simple with the right tools. This spring, shape up your flower beds by learning how to create edges and maintain them.

The Right Tools Chances are you already have a spade in your garage or shed. While it may take more work to complete the job with this tool alone, it is possible. There are a couple downsides of using only a spade. If you are creating edges for a large garden, it will take much more time and elbow grease to do it with a hand tool. Plus, it is harder to cut curves with a spade, which is a big aspect of an attractive edge. A gasoline-powered edger is best for large jobs. There is no wait time to restart once you run out of fuel, and it will be stronger than an electric edger. An electric edger is efficient for smaller jobs. As the battery drains, its strength will be reduced, and it will not be restored until it is placed on a charger. This can make edging take longer, as you will need to allow the tool to rest until it is fully charged. Creating the Edge Creating a new edge can be an easy task but requires a little hard work. You will need a spade or edging tool and, to make it easier, a garden hose.

Here are a few simple steps to a perfect edge: • Lay out the garden hose along the border of your garden. The hose will easily flex to be used as a guide to cut attractive curves. • If you’re using a spade, cut into the sod to a depth between 4 and 6 inches. • Once you have one side of your border cut, follow your slice again on the other side. This is to sever all roots from your edge. • Using a powered edger is as easy as guiding your tool along your desired border path. Guide your tool slowly as it may get away from you and create sloppy edges. Maintain an Edge The edge itself won’t require much maintenance, but it is important to keep its surroundings sharp and intact. Plants within the bed may begin to grow over the edge. Prune these plants so they stay in the bed. The lawn on the other side of the edge also should be mowed regularly. Any grass or weeds that grow over the edge should be eliminated.

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A well-designed kitchen will offer many benefits for your home’s appearance. Overall value also should not be ignored. Your kitchen is likely a high-traffic room used to host gatherings for family and friends. Consider upgrading your kitchen with a tile backsplash this spring. You may not be getting the most out of the space between your countertop and cabinets. A tile backsplash will complement your home’s cabinetry and become a talking point for your guests.

Use Your Surroundings A colorful tile backsplash will add a tremendous amount of flair to your kitchen. It is important to consider your existing kitchen design first. Traditionally a backsplash is used to add an impressive view that joins your countertops and cabinets together. Be sure to choose a tile that mixes well with your other fixtures. Consider the color of your countertop when deciding on a tile color. A colorful countertop will benefit from a neutral backsplash color but can shine if you mix it up with patterns. Remember, neutral colors such as black, blue and white create stunning results when blended together. Complement Your Cabinets Keep in mind that changing the color of any room will cause an instant transformation. This transformation will add or take away from your kitchen’s design, depending on 16 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

how the colors mesh together. Your cabinets will be another factor in deciding which tile color you choose. Amber-colored cabinets look great with a neutral-colored backsplash. Using a mixture of blue and gray tiles will create a warm and welcoming appearance. Oak cabinets will pop when featured with a red-ceramic tile. Be sure to choose a lighter shade of red if your cabinets have a dark finish. Change It Up Don’t choose a tile color that is too similar to the rest of your fixtures or you may find yourself with an uninspired backsplash. Using different shades of your kitchen’s primary colors can tie your kitchen’s design together and show off an extravagant flair. Experiment with different shades and tones to achieve the tile backsplash that works best for your home.

2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE â&#x20AC;¢ 17

Homeowners’ spending to hit $321 billion on renovations I

t’s a strategy as old as home-owning itself: Buy a house at a lower price, then kick in the time and money to make it what you want. According to new spending data projected for the next year or so, homeowners are spending almost twice as much as they have in previous years on renovations and repairs. Put simply: The fixer-upper is alive and well. Billions in upgrades CNBC reports home improvement and repaid expenditures to hit 8 percent in 2017, well above the historical average of 4.9 percent. The numbers come from a new report from Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing. “By the middle of next year, the national remodeling market should be very close to a full recovery from its worst downturn on record,” Abbe Will, research analyst in the remodeling futures program at the Joint Center, told CNBC. “Annual spending is set to reach $321 billion by then, which after adjusting for inflation is just shy of the previous peak set in 2006 before the housing crash.” Equity is trending up The report notes home equity is a major factor in the increase, buoyed by near-record low mortgage rates, which are wooing owners to pull cash out and refinance their properties. The data shows that in the first quarter of 2016, homeowners gained a collective $260 billion in additional home equity. By factoring in that increase, 38 million borrowers now have at least 20 percent equity in their homes, 18 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

“By the middle of next year, the national remodeling market should be very close to a full recovery from its worst downturn on record,” –Abbe Will, research analyst, Harvard’s joint center for housing

according to Black Knight Financial Services. Brad Hunter, chief economist with HomeAdvisor, an online home services marketplace, said confidence is another factor. As usual, bathrooms and kitchens are the most popular Though spending is up, the most popular renovations remain as expected: Bathrooms and kitchens. But, insulation work is reportedly yielding the best returns, and more ambitious remodels are up almost 70 percent compared to last year. CNBC points to a report from Houzz, which notes at least one-quarter of remodeling firms across all sectors report seeing more clients taking on multiple projects at the same time.

An elegant outdoor space adds usable living space to your homefor parties or just quiet evenings spent relaxing outdoors. Choose outdoor furniture and accessories made of materials durable enough to withstand Mother Nature. They key to finding the right outdoor design style is determining how you’ll be using the space. The more guests you expect during the warm weather months, the more seating and entertaining room you will need. Consider this factor when choosing your new patio furniture set.

Patio Your patio is the foundation for your outdoor living space. It will need to be durable and well-constructed, but you also will want it to be attractive. You can install a new patio or just resurface your existing one. The most popular patio materials to choose from include concrete, flagstone, pavers and brick. Concrete is basic, but it works especially well on a budget. For a completely natural look, nothing beats natural stone for a patio. There are many different types of natural stone to choose from including flagstone, slate, bluestone and limestone. Natural stone costs more, but manufactured paving stones come in many different shapes, colors and patterns, as well. Bricks also come in different colors and are an option. 20 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Lighting Outdoor lighting defines the boundaries of your outdoor space and provides some security. Depending on the type of light, it also can change the mood. Lanterns and outdoor candles provide subtle light and are great for romantic outdoor dinners. Solar lights are popular, too, and there are lots of options at your local home improvement store. A fire pit can add light and heat — and of course you can roast hot dogs and marshmallows. Furniture & Grill Outdoor furniture provides comfortable seating for everyone as they relax, chat or eat the night away. Many options are specifically made with materials that can endure the outside elements. Wooden patio furniture is popular and can show off great craftsmanship. Other patio sets have comfortable water-resistant cushions, with lots of colors available. Of course, a standard to any outdoor space is the barbecue grill. There are lots of charcoal or gas styles, depending on your preference. Let the party begin.

2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE â&#x20AC;¢ 21

Your bathroom vanity can be the first thing you see upon entering your bathroom, so its design and functionality are important. Serving several purposes, your vanity can come in many styles, colors and finishes. Pick out one that goes with the overall style of your entire bathroom while taking into account existing space and design work.

Repurposing One budget-friendly option is to redo your existing vanity or a stock vanity by painting it and adding new hardware. Repurposing an old dresser into a vanity will add a vintage element and save money. For an unexpected bathroom vanity design, think outside the box. Old work benches can even be converted into vanities. An open vanity in an unexpected color lends personality to a modern bathroom design. A wide variety of vanities are available at your local home improvement store. Choose one that speaks to your tastes. Sinks & Countertops You can’t have a great-looking vanity without a fully functional sink and beautiful countertop. For optimal usage, work with your contractor to add a double sink to your vanity — especially in the master bathroom. This provides more space and functionality and can even allow you to place a makeup station between the sinks for separate and additional grooming space. As for style, the look of your countertop, sink and faucet is up to you. The choices for bathroom countertops include marble, granite, quartz and laminate. Under-mount sinks disappear into the vanity for a modern look. Again, work with your local interior designer or home contracting expert to incorporate the best vanity for your space and style. Other Considerations A basic and practical addition to most vanities is the mirror above it. Large mirrors reflect natural light and make a room seem even more spacious. They come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and finishes. You can add storage to your vanity area by hanging a surface-mount medicine cabinet with a mirror. Vanities come in styles with drawers and shelving. Baskets on top can add additional storage. Creatively mix textures such as wood, marble and glass, as well as color, in your vanity area to create that special place to get ready in the morning.

22 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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Add drawers under your kitchen counters

24 â&#x20AC;˘ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Big or small, it seems most every house can use a bit more storage space. Luckily, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always have to buildon more rooms to add more space. All you have to do is get creative and use some space you probably forgot was even there.

Add more drawers under your cabinets

Build, install the cabinets

If you’re running out of kitchen space, you can always take the full-on renovation route and put in new cabinets and reconfigure the whole layout. But, if you’re looking to gain some space and just spend a few hundred bucks, the easiest solution could be under (or right in front of) your feet. The Family Handyman notes a project where you can add new drawers underneath your cabinets, by utilizing the hollow space between the bottom of the cabinets and the floor. Remove the toe kick and open up the space

Build your cabinets to fit the space, and be sure to leave room for a “cradle” and slides. Be very sure of your measurements and cuts to make absolutely sure you’re not building a set of cabinets too tall or wide to fit the space. Install the cradles and be sure the drawers fit the slides and move smoothly. Then, test out the drawers with some heavy objects to make sure they can handle the weight and are installed securely. Also make sure the fronts of the drawers match your kitchen cabinet aesthetic. Load those new drawers up with little-used objects

The first step is to figure out what you’re dealing with, to make sure your kitchen configuration will allow for additional drawers. To see, remove the toe kick board to expose the space underneath the cabinets. Once you have the space exposed, you can determine exactly which size your cabinets need to be, in order to fit in the space.

If you did it right, you should have 3-4 inches of clearance in the bottom drawers, which is more than enough room to hold pans, bags and utensils. Your own mileage will vary, depending on how often you use specific items, but this should add several square-feet of usable storage space — all for a weekend or so of work and a few hundred dollars.

2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 25

Give your front door a brand new look Feel free to go a little crazy with the colors The obvious approach dictates you treat your front door as an extension of your home’s color scheme, matching it to the shutters or other accents. But, as UnHinge notes, that doesn’t have to be the case. Instead, they recommend treating the front door like a “single focal point.” When choosing a color, the guide recommends you pick something that’s personal to you and represents your personality. So, don’t be afraid to go a little crazy Add a little swag Okay, so you’ve painted the door, but it might still be missing a little something. So, think about adding an extra feature or two — and even a bit of additional functionality. You can always add a peephole to the door, or even a door knocker, which can either fit the historical architecture of your house or go a little quirky. Also feel free to change up the door knob. If you have an 26 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

It’s literally the gateway into your home, but after a while it can start to look a little shabby. But, just a little bit of work on your front door can make your home look like a brand new place. It can add a ton of curb appeal for minimal investment.

older home, maybe consider a vintage find that matches the era of the home. Fix what’s broken All the upgrades in the world won’t be much good if the door is off center, sagging, or has a broken screen. These repairs can get things ready for potential upgrades, so make them first. Be sure you’re working with a good base before starting renovations. So, be sure to make any necessary repairs as needed. Replace or fix a broken screen door, and fix any broken, or uneven, door handles and hinges. Refinish the door Flaking paint has a certain type of appeal in some situations, but on a front door, it just doesn’t work. So, scrape off any flaking paint and give the door a fresh coat. Then refinish it with a new coat to seal it and ensure it’ll last another few decades. If you’re looking to showcase the wood’s natural color and grain, This Old House recommends a high-performance, oil-based varnish.

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Mixing Metal and Wood Kitchen trends today incorporate a variety of metals, finishes and woods. Don’t be afraid to try it. A lot of those spectacular kitchens in magazines we buy have a mix of metal finishes, wood tones and painted cabinetry. You can achieve the same aesthetic in your home. The first step is finding out which materials you’d like to incorporate. As you research, you will find that some materials are more costly than others. This is where setting and sticking to a budget is key. Cabinets Your kitchen cabinets are the core of your kitchen. They can be custom built or purchased prefabricated, which is a more cost-effective option for homeowners on a tight remodeling budget. Some homeowners prefer painted cabinetry, and nothing is more stunning than white cabinets alongside stainless steel appliances. Mahogany is the premier wood for fine cabinetry but naturally the most expensive. Other choices include alder, birch, cherry, maple and hickory. Remember that the latest trends allow us to mix woods in our kitchens for a unique design. Metals The most current popular kitchen trend is the use of stainless steel appliances. They look nice with a variety of woods or painted cabinets, and they are very durable. However, there are a few homeowners and renovators who still prefer black or white appliances. These basic colors also look good with different woods and finishes. 28 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Light fixtures and kitchen sinks also can be purchased in your favorite metal, such as brass or stainless steel. Hang your copper pot collection on an overhead mount for beauty and convenience. Even the small detail of the style, metal and color of kitchen cabinet door handles can have a dramatic effect. Mix & Match The key to mixing woods and metals is getting colors to work together. This is all about how one tone enhances another. Just about the only thing that won’t work is mixing warm and cool tones. Black painted cabinets and woodwork can look great on a natural wood-tone floor. White subway tiles are classic and make the perfect backdrop for black. If your appliances are stainless steel, put gold hardware on your cabinets. Your light fixtures can have a deeper tone. If you are creating a chic, contemporary kitchen featuring white or gray, use shiny metals instead of brushed or patina tones. If your style is traditional with warm whites and wood tones, use polished nickel or soft brass to complete the room. Don’t forget the backsplash. This finishing touch can incorporate glass mosaic, travertine, marble, metal, slate and many more stunning options.

2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE â&#x20AC;¢ 29

30 â&#x20AC;¢ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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32 â&#x20AC;¢ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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Martin Furniture & Mattress, Water Conditioning and Appliance: Quality, Integrity and Character

By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

tep into the Martin Appliance showroom in nearby Quarryville, and you will see the same commitment to customer service and convenience that has served as the mission of the wellknown appliance provider since founder Dennis Martin opened his ¿rst store in Myerstown, 44 years ago. A knowledgeable and friendly sales staff who answer all of your questions. A team of technicians who are backed with factory training and certi¿cation. A bright and airy 10,000 square-foot showroom, with an ever-changing inventory of home appliances from some of the top manufacturers in the world such as GE, Maytag, Whirlpool, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, Viking, Miele, and many more. Furnishings from Temple, England, Klaussner, Ashley, Best Home Furnishings, as well as bedding from Serta and Simmons. A full-color, do-it-yourself touch screen kiosk to guide you through an inventory of thousands of options from leading home furnishing companies that Martin Furniture and Mattress partners with. An inhouse design team, who work side-by-side with you, in the comfort of your home.

Martin Water Conditioning offers complete service and installation of residential, commercial and light industrial water treatment systems. They will service most any water treatment system. A water treatment service department that stands on its outstanding reputation. With these services and more, it is no wonder that the Martin Companies -including Martin Appliance, Martin Water Conditioning and Martin Furniture -has earned the prestigious Certi¿ed Service Center rating. “Dennis has said from the beginning, ‘Treat others as you would want to be treated,’” said store manager Shawn Reimold. “Martin’s has, and always will be, about relationships -- relationships with customers, employees and the community.’ “There are a number of ways a company can grow, and our growth comes from our people,” Reimold added. “We look to hire people who do what they’re naturally gifted at, which is simply just to be nice. The people who work here don’t necessarily come to us with a skill set in the job they will eventually do. They come to us with

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integrity and character. We like to think that if you come to us with integrity and character, we can train the skill.” Do you want to design the room of your needs, but don’t have the time? Let Janice and Linda, Martin’s in-home design team, help you along the way. After an initial in-store consultation, Janice and Linda will visit your home and offer suggestions on fabrics, colors, furniture and Àoor plans, and then provide you with a full design concept to make your design dreams come true. In-home design at Martin Furniture is very affordable, too. Each in-home consultation is $89, and if you make a purchase based on the design, the cost is taken off of your ¿nal price. The savings and service at Martin Appliance doesn’t end there. With its affordable price structure on home appliances and furnishings, your purchase at Martin’s does not end at the sale, it is the service after the sale that our customers have come to appreciate. “Our technicians are factory trained professionals, who are there for our customers,” Reimold said. “We provide complete professional installation, on everything we sell.” Martin Appliance has built its reputation not just on the home appliances and furnishings it carries, but in in its water treatment and conditioning service, as well. More than 100 highly-trained and certi¿ed master technicians provide inhome testing and affordable solutions that ensure high quality water in your home. Martin Appliance welcomes you to visit one of its other ¿ve other locations in Brownstown, Cleona, Ephrata, Myerstown and Reading. Just minutes away from Chester County! STORE HOURS Mon and Wed: 8am to 5pm • Tues, Thurs and Fri: 8am to 8pm Sat: 9am to 3pm • Sun: Closed

Make an old fireplace new again From wood-burning to gas logs, a fireplace can make an excellent centerpiece for any room. But, just because it can keep you warm in the winter, that doesn’t mean it has to look drab.

If nothing else, paint it It’s the cheapest change you can make, and can be the most obvious. Depending on what you’re doing with the potential room, you can paint (or strip the paint from) the brick, and paint the trim and accompanying drywall around the fireplace. A coat of paint can do wonders, but it’s not the only thing you can do. You can also paint the wall featuring the fireplace, and HGTV recommends going with something bright and loud, to really make the wall standout. Don’t like the tile, cover it up Depending on when your home was built, the fireplace could feature tile around the opening as trim. Some tile can look great. Others? Not so much. So, if you’re looking to make a change, there are a few options. If you’re wanting to go big, you can track down marble and replace or cover the tile. It’s a bit pricy, but will almost certainly add some class to the room. But, there are still options when working on a budget. HGTV notes marble-like adhesive paper can be attached to existing tile to cover it up with a new look. Along with being a low-priced option, this can also be great for renters looking to temporarily change the look of a room.

Cover the facade with something new

You can go with a relatively low-cost option by just covering up whatever facade is already on the fireplace with something new, i.e. a product like artificial stone that can be installed with an adhesive. It can make an old fireplace look brand new. If nothing else, add some art If you’re looking to go ultra-low budget, maybe add some flair above the fireplace, by picking up a new Whitewash the brick painting or work of art to hang over the fireplace. HGTV points to a relatively easy project that can upgrade a brick Go with something that represents you, and don’t be fireplace, by using white paint with an eggshell finish to wipe on afraid to try something different. The fireplace is almultiple coats. It can give the fireplace a much more subtle look. ready the centerpiece of the room, so make it count. 36 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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Buy Local There are multiple reasons that your local furniture store is a great place to shop. Many of the businesses in your neck of the woods are owned by your neighbors and friends. Not to mention, the quality products produced and sold by your local furniture shop can be second to none. There are multiple benefits of shopping locally, including the fact that your dollars can advance your community’s growth and help tap into your sense of community. Many local businesses can only survive with your consistent patronage, so make sure to chose local furniture and design services as often as possible. Local Economy

Supporting local businesses puts money back into the area economy. That in turn improves the quality of life for every resident — including your family. In the long run, your business will mean more local jobs because independent local furniture businesses employ area residents to help them run their companies.

38 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Local retailers and distributors also carry a higher percentage of locally produced goods than chains, and that means American-made products can easily make their way into your home. Quality Products and Service Your local furniture business owners usually don’t mass produce their furniture, so the quality can be exceptional. They take the time and effort to truly create custom, wellcrafted pieces such as popular outdoor wooden furniture or heavy, rich dining room tables. The owners also know the preferred styles of the locals. They choose quality furniture that suits the local environment, such as coastal living or the countryside. Even if your style doesn’t fit the local flavor, they generally carry options for all tastes or can order whatever pieces align with your preferences. Community Impact A lot of local furniture business owners are our neighbors, which means they invest their savings and lives pursuing their American dream in your neighborhood. They play a key role in your community as they support local charities or serve on local boards. Your support reinforces their efforts.

2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE â&#x20AC;¢ 39

Add more space by using what’s there

From adding a few new shelves to your bedroom, to making better use of space in a closet, there are several low-cost options for finding more room for all your knick-knacks.

Add some recessed shelves This is one of the easiest options, especially in old homes: Need shelf space? Go in instead of out. The DIY Network notes you can cut out space from within your walls to add recessed shelving space. Cut a square in the drywall or plaster, but be sure you’re not hitting any pipes or wiring. From there, determine how much space you have within the wall space, and you should be able to burrow out a couple of inches of shelf space. It might not sound like much, but in a small bathroom, it can be the difference in losing headspace and having room for everything from hairspray to extra toilet paper. Closet too small? Gut it and start over It’s no secret that your mileage can vary when it comes to the little details of home design, and you might need to make a few changes once you figure out how you’d like to utilize the space. So, figure out how much space you have in the closet and pull everything else out. From there, figure out how you’d like to lay out the closet. Need more shelf space? Add a few more rows of shelves. Need it for hanging clothes? Double up on the amount of clothing rods by putting one high, and one low. It’s your house, and if it can make your life easier, that small scale renovation can be more than worth the few hundred bucks and days required to make the change. If you’re up for demolition, find some ‘secret’ rooms This is where things get a bit more expensive and messy, but if you’re really wanting to add some additional space, it could be worth it depending on how your home is laid out. The Chicago Tribune notes some homes, can have “hidden” cavities of unused space behind non-load-bearing walls. From a new closet, to possibly even room for a new bathroom, these unused spaces can turn out to be very useful. Of course, you’ll have to closely check your home’s plans to see what’s there before you start knocking down walls. 40 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Stay on top of things If they’re caught early, big problems can be prevented while they’re still small problems. It just takes a bit of vigilance to pull it off. Check your caulk every year HGTV recommends checking for separated and deteriorated caulk around the exterior of your home, such as between the siding and foundation, and around vents, outlets, pipes and faucets. If you don’t ensure your caulk is consistently applied, moisture can get in and cause rotting and mildew. Once that happens, it becomes a much bigger and more expensive problem. But, all it takes is a few hours and a canister of caulk to prevent it. Check the gutters Making sure your gutters are cleaned out at least twice per year is also a relatively easy task that can be done in an

a few hours on the weekend. Get a ladder that can safely reach your gutters and downspouts, and a thick pair of work gloves you don’t mind ruining. Then, get to pulling. Soggy leaves and dirt can get clogged in your gutters, rendering them pretty much useless. When that happens, they don’t work, and all that water that should be going down the gutter dumps around the foundation of your home. It can cause damage to siding, and even cause trouble for your foundation and basement, if the water has nowhere to drain. Keep the carpet clean Vacuuming can go a long way, but about once per year your carpet needs a deep clean. So, hdtv recommends you Continued on Page 42

2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 41

Stay on top of things Continued from Page 41

take the plunge and hire a professional to clean your carpet to pull out those deep-down stains and dirt. Keep the garbage disposal sharp Garbage disposals can really come in handy, but only if you keep it functioning properly. All it takes to do that is toss some ice cubes down and chew them up. Cutting up the ice cubes will clean the blades in your disposal. Flush the A/C drain line HGTV recommends hiring a professional to flush the air conditioning unit primary drain line. The report notes algae or debris can block the line, causing water to back up into the drain pan. If left unchecked, it can malfunction or cause water damage.

42 â&#x20AC;˘ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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Bring Nature into Your Design

44 â&#x20AC;¢ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Materials

A popular home decor trend is bringing nature back into the design of your entire house. It is not a new concept, however. Humans have always loved the peace and comfort of nature. There are multiple ways to welcome the outdoors into your home improvement project or new build design.

Choosing natural materials that go with your personal home decor style is the first consideration. Your local interior designer and home improvement experts can help you design your room around natural elements that appeal to your style. Natural materials can be used in almost every aspect of building or redesigning your home. Wood and brick are common for building. Cotton is a favorite for bedding and leather for furniture. Quartz and granite are good materials for countertops. Wood is still one of the most versatile elements, coming in a variety of finishes, species and applications. It also can be reclaimed and refinished from older buildings. If natural materials are too expensive for your budget, there are pre-engineered, laminate and veneer stone applications that offer the look of nature. Continued on Page 46

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Continued from Page 45

Plants & Vegetation Plants and flowers are easy and relatively inexpensive natural additions to any home design. Many different varieties of plants and flowers can be grown indoors. A lot of potted plants and flowers need minimum care on our part, but their benefits to us are many. Plants filter the air we breathe while adding a living and colorful dimension to our design. Your local nursery or home improvement store will have many choices of plants and colors. This should be the fun part of your design. Other Natural Elements Sunlight is often overlooked, but it is one of the easiest, cheapest and most beautiful natural elements. Natural daylighting is cheerful and can change the mood of any space. Adding windows is a common way of letting more natural light into your home. Your local contractor and architect can strategically add ors place windows almost anywhere you desire when building or renovating. On beautiful, sunny days, open the curtains on those windows and let the sun and fresh air stream in to your home.

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Plant a Small Garden While a garden will provide you with healthy, rich produce throughout the warmer months, it also can consume valuable space. You may think your yard lacks extra space to contain a large garden, but you can grow an efficient garden in a smaller space. Small gardens can hold many different types of produce. They also can be easier to manage. Even a small garden plot will require a lot of maintenance, so, don’t think you need to plant a large, overwhelming garden to get rewarded. Location When choosing a location for your small garden, keep in mind that most vegetables require a minimum of five hours of direct sunlight per day. Your garden will need to be planted facing south on your property. This will ensure your plants get the amount of required sunlight. Before you begin prepping your land for a garden, analyze the plot during the sunnier parts of the day. If you notice shadows appearing on your plot, you will need to either move the obstructions causing the shadows or choose a different spot. Moving obstructions may not always be feasible, especially if 48 • 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

the shadows are caused by permanent fixtures such as a fence or tree. You also should avoid planting near trees. Not only will the shade hinder your gardens’ growth, but they also have deep roots, which may get in the way of your budding plants. Build a Raised Bed Raised-bed gardening is great for keeping your plants contained in one small area. It also is effective at keeping out pests due to the tall border. To build a raised-bed garden you must first determine how much space you plan to use. Next you will need to lay the frame.

Either set up concrete blocks around the perimeter or piece boards together with screws. Lay weed resistant cloth on the floor of your new bed. This is to keep weeds from entering your garden. Fill the bed with a 50/50 mixture of soil and compost. Leave about 2 inches of space between your mixture and the top of your frame. Vegetables such as carrots, lettuce, radishes and onions will do great in a raised-bed garden. You can still even use trellises for plants that require support, like tomatoes or cucumbers. Avoid planting melons or potatoes because they require a large amount of room to grow properly.

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A house filled with sunlight is cheery, warm and inviting â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and it just makes us feel plain happy. Natural light also reduces lighting energy consumption by 50 to 80 percent, according to the U.S. Green Building Council. There are many ways to incorporate more light into your life. You just need to know where to look.

50 â&#x20AC;˘ 2017 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Light it

Up Windows Windows and skylights are the most obvious ways to let natural light into our homes. Of course, you need to consider any side effects of heat gain or loss and glare, but these can be controlled with energy-efficient glass. Your interior designer and contractor will

consider placement and orientation in regards to how the windows relate to the sunâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movement. These simple strategies can help you enjoy the best of all worlds. Open Concept The latest home trends favor open concept layouts. These larger spaces usually contain more and larger windows, so they are considerably lighter than older homes that often feature separated and enclosed rooms. Open to some remodeling? Talk with your local construction experts about creating a design that takes out non-load-bearing walls to open up your Continued on Page 52

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Light it Up Continued from Page 51

place a bit. You can even add open-tread stairwells with an operable window or skylight at the top. These touches will provide a ray of new light throughout your home. Blinds & Curtains Blinds and curtains contribute to color, design and the overall look of a home. They also are important for privacy and safety. They also can control the amount and direction of natural light. Blinds come in a variety of materials, such as plastic or wood, and many colors and prices. There are vertical, horizontal and assorted pull down blinds. Curtains are one of the finishing details of any room. Some, such as sheers and valances, let in significant light to filter through, while others block out light almost totally. With this kind of control, you can pick and choose when to brighten up your home.

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Turn a dank basement into a new den Though they typically end up as dumping ground for tools, boxes and just about anything else that doesn’t fit upstairs — basements can be turned into extremely useful spaces with a little (or lot, in some cases) work. Start by cleaning it up It might seem obvious, but doing some clean-up is the best way to start a basement renovation. Figure out what can be thrown out or donated, and do it. For whatever is left, consolidate it into a designated storage area in the basement (be it a certain room, or even just a corner, within the basement). That space down there is useless if you have too much junk to actually utilize it.

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Brighten things up Depending on the level of finish within your basement, you could be dealing with drywall or bare concrete walls. Either way, bright colors are key. Basements are underground, obviously, and dark by design. Bland and dark colors only exacerbate that, so go with something light, and possibly even bright, to make the space feel more inviting. You can paint bare concrete, or drywall walls if they’re there. Either way, anything is better than concrete grey. Upgrade the floor It’s sadly a fact of life: Basements leak, and at some point, your basement probably will, too. It might take a 100-years storm to make it happen, but almost all basements will get some moisture at some point. So when it comes to flooring, carpet or adhesive tile can be dangerous. Just a little bit of water and moisture, and it’s ruined. So what do you do? Maybe just go with concrete — but not the dare, ugly color you’re thinking of. Concrete stains can look fantastic, adding color and texture to what would typically be an ugly floor. It’s also relatively inexpensive, if not a bit time consuming. If you’re feeling really creative, use a saw to etch out lines that look like large “tiles” in the floor, to add a unique flair. Lay a few coats of clear coat on top of that, and it’ll shine like something a whole lot more expensive. Plus, if the basement ever does leak, it can’t do much damage to concrete.

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Classic French with a modern twist or country modern with touches of contemporary metal? It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter which way your design arrow points as long as it ends with you feeling satisfied with your style. We take our home design seriously. Just look at the dozens of television shows dedicated to home style, improvement and renovation. Remodeling has become big business, and not just out of necessity for homeowners. Rather we are choosing to update our homes to achieve a specific look and feel. Although designs and trends change over the years, most people will naturally prefer one particular design over another or maybe even a mix of a few. Trust the Local Experts Your local interior designers are experts on home decor style, and they stay up to date on the latest trends. Their services can save you time, hassle and money in the long run. Most people assume they cannot afford a personal interior designer, but many actually charge rates that are quite

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reasonable and affordable. Although achieving a particular visual impact is the mainstay of interior designing, interior designers consider many factors that impact your comfort and safety. Some of these include lighting, space planning, organization and fire safety and codes, according to the American Society of Interior Designers, as well as environmental impact. Be honest up front with your designer about your budget, priorities and personal style. They have likely handled projects similar to yours and are ready for your business. Home Decor Styles Educating yourself about the different home decor styles will help you identify your preferences. Choosing your personal home decor style is important, because it sets the tone and atmosphere for your home life. Your style should be matched with colors and furniture pieces. This collaboration of carefully chosen color, fabric, furniture and art, as well as the small details, all contribute to the impact of the completed design.

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