Spaces, March - April by FLORIDA TODAY

Universal Design

Space planning for a lifetime

Preserving Memories

Q&A with 3 prominent portrait artists

Counterpoints Kitchen surfaces combine function and good looks

Hyundai Smokes the Competition

All-Redesigned 2011 Hyundai Sonata starting from $19,12500

thinkaboutit.com

Brevard County Hyundai Dealers Coastal Hyundai & Cocoa Hyundai are dba

COASTAL HYUNDAI

915 W. New Haven Ave | Melbourne 800.870.6064 | www.coastalhyundai.com

COCOA HYUNDAI

Corner 520 & US 1 North | Cocoa 800.880.0862 | www.cocoahyundai.com

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The SlumberAir Mattress System. Tell your guests to sleep well and mean it. Sleep sofas aren’t thought of as the epitome of comfort. Which is why we reinvented them. Introducing our SlumberAir Mattress System – a 6” air cushion over a 4” innerspring coil base. In addition to all the style and fabric options, our sleep sofas are available with extra support, durable steel reinforced frames and adjustable head rests. The SlumberAir Mattress System – a combination of softness and support that make it a pull out sofa unlike any other – one your guests will actually sleep well on. For all our restful options, visit la-z-boy.com/slumberair.

3451 W. New Haven Ave. Melbourne

3710 N. U.S. 1 Cocoa

321.725.5461

321.639.3010

March/April 2010

“There is nothing better than a good granite.” – Jonathan Rodrigues, from Counterpoints, p. 14

12 Stuff We Love! Knobs worth noticing, fab faucets, stylized sinks and more 14 Counterpoints Kitchen surfaces combine function and good looks

Story by Danika Warren

24 Sunny, Sunny Point A peek inside the home of Melbourne’s favorite diva

Story by Maria Sonnenberg

36 Preserving Memories Q&A with 3 prominent portrait artists

Story by Maria Sonnenberg

46 Universal Design Space planning for a lifetime

Story by Anne Straub

54 Active Senior Communities Resort-style amenities attract retirees

Story by Anne Straub

66 Soak Up Some Sun Harness the power of the sun and reduce your reliance on electricity

Story by Betsy Franz

74 Cool Operators New AC technology saves money and energy

84 Illumination Solutions Brevard Lighting offers restoration services, new fixtures, and 40+ years of expertise.

84 66 54

spaces

Story by Jimi Gonzalez

Story by Maria Sonnenberg

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editor’s note

New faces here at Spaces magazine… s I write this note toward the latter half of February, yet another cold front has brought a chill to Brevard. I’ve had to banish my flip-flops to the back of my closet, and instead I’m wearing suede boots – for far too long! They are great boots, but as Floridians, we expect more sunshine from our winter weather. As Spaces magazine continues to evolve, I wanted to broaden the industry expertise of our advisory board team. I am thrilled to introduce some new members who will further support the development of our content moving forward. Our new board members represent different industries but share a common bond – they all are established professionals in their fields here in Brevard County. We welcome the collaboration and input of Dave Jackson and Andrew Kirschner of Jackson Kirschner Architects, Susan Hall of Hall Landscape Architecture, Betty Greenway of Island Paint & Decorating, and Teri Pentz, of both Island Paint & Decorating and The East Coast Cabinet Company. As I welcome our recent additions, I must also note the departure of another board member. Leanna Farrell of Porter Baxter Interiors has been a longtime contributor providing design expertise. She helped me get my first issue off the ground – decorating holiday front doors, and during hurricane season no less! Lots of rescheduled photo shoots later and some tense moments teetering from a tall ladder and we had a cover shot! Thank you, Leanna, I know you will continue to share your projects with us. Demolition has begun on the new Brevard Cultural Alliance site where our Spaces designers will soon be busy providing space planning and interior design input. We hope to have photos showing that work progressing in our next issue. If you’re still looking for a copy of Spaces, turn to page 91, where we’ve provided a list of our distribution points. Be sure to reference our resource directory in print and online and stop in to see an advertiser in this issue; they always get extra copies! Enjoy this March-April issue packed with the latest in kitchen surfaces, solar energy for our homes, and a visit to historic Sunny Point in old Eau Gallie, where a peek inside Loretta and Michael Sorbello’s home offers a cozy combination of the old and the new. Looking ahead, we’ll heat things up for the May issue. Go ahead and dig out your flip-flops; there’s warmer weather ahead.

spaces

Janet McCluskey Editor, Spaces magazine www.spacesonline.com

Spaces is published by Cape Publications, Inc. 1 Gannett Plaza, Melbourne, FL 32940 Tel (321) 242-3930, Fax (321) 242-3809

w w w. s p a c e s o n l i n e . c o m

Publisher Mark S. Mikolajczyk

Editor Janet McCluskey

Advertising Director Christopher Wood

Product Designer Corinne Ishler

Copy Editors Teresa Christopher Cris Davies

Specialty Publications Sales Executive Susan Seybold

Photographers Rob Downey David Potter Graphic Designers

Kathy Crandall Kathleen Carreiro Donald Caracelo Claudette Keeley Monty Thorstenson Kathy Rooney Belinda Lewis Gilboard

Writers Betsy S. Franz Jimi Gonzalez Rolanda Hatcher-Gallop Maria Sonnenberg Anne Straub Danika Warren

Design & Development Team

Porter Baxter Jimi Gonzalez Derek Gores Betty Greenway Susan Hall Dave Jackson Andrew Kirschner Sisi Packard Dee Patnoe Terri Pentz Linda Tamasy Riitta Ylonen

For Advertising Inquiries Contact Susan Seybold at 321.242.3975 or sseybold@floridatoday.com Ann Greenwell at 321.242.3855

Spaces assumes no liability for the contents, including any credentials stated or claims made by persons or establishments included herein. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or part, of this publication is prohibited without written permission. © Cape Publications, Inc. 2009

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advisory board entertaining spaces

In your respective industries what advice would you offer readers regarding purchases that would address not only their needs now, but what will retain value and be functional as they age?

Porter Baxter

“As you age remember comfort, both physical and aesthetical, becomes more important. Style and function can coexist. Color has a profound effect on your state of mind. Professional design help doesn’t cost, it pays!” Porter Baxter Owner, Porter Baxter Interiors

Jimi Gonzalez

Derek Gores

“Current television models have features that will be important in the next era of media content and delivery. However, stores remain filled with TVs at a lower price that use technology that may become dated in the near future. Be wary of products using proprietary wiring or communication. You run the risk of being left with a product that can’t be supported or updated.” Jimi Gonzalez Vice President of sales and marketing Island Systems and Design

Betty Greenway

Susan Hall

Dave Jackson

“First, trust that if you find art you love, it will hold personal value forever. Secondly, if it is made by an artist in love with his or her craft, then odds are the investment value will increase as well. True story!”

rails and well-lit exteriors. Non-slip surfaces are essential for safety. Landscape is low maintenance and produces little to no leaf or seed pod litter.”

main floor, or install an elevator, or have the ability to add later. Wide hallways and doorways are another important consideration.”

Susan Hall, ASLA

Dee Patnoe

Owner, Susan Hall Landscape Architecture

Owner, Dee.Cor

“If your goal is to stay in your home as you age, minor and affordable decisions can pay big dividends. Consider widening doorways, eliminating a shower curb or providing in-wall reinforcing to support future grab rails. Simple choices made now can help keep you in the home you love.”

“Simple changes such as changing door knobs to levers can make a difference. Master baths can be improved for aesthetics today and accessibility tomorrow. Higher vanity cabinets, no step showers and wider doorways can allow a client to stay in their home longer. “

Dave Jackson

Interior Designer, Island Paint & Decorating Center & co-owner of The East Coast Cabinet Company

Partner, Jackson Kirschner Architects

“Stick to traditional designs, ideas and color palettes that have stood the test of time. Don’t fall into a “ trendy” trap or you could find yourself with a dated space. Unique art adds to a space and can always be changed as your tastes evolve.” Andrew Kirschner Partner, Jackson Kirschner Architects

Sisi Packard spaces

“One idea to incorporate for shower design is the shower without the “curb.” This makes your shower accessible, and it looks sleek with a frameless glass door. In the kitchen, drawers are easier to access than standard cabinets. Consider innovations such as microwave and dishwasher drawers.” Linda Tamasy, ASID

Derek Gores

“Seeking the expertise of a professional to design a space that will fit your needs “When considering furniture or accesso- is well worth the investment. A profesries, choose quality pieces that you love. sional will consider: family life, use of space, energy efficiency, furnishings, and You will always find a place for them.” budget. The result is a space that is funcBetty Greenway tional and a design that is timeless.” Owner, Island Paint & Decorating Center

Owner, Linda Tamasy Designs Inc.

Fine art, illustration and design, 321 Agency

Sisi Packard

Andrew Kirschner

Terri Pentz

“When designing spaces functional for all ages, minimize the use of steps and thresholds to create a seamless transition from interior to exterior. Use low- angle ramps in lieu of steps, well-placed hand

Terri Pentz

Director of Client Relations Christopher Burton Homes

“I use space planning to make sure that homeowners will get the most benefit from their environment in the long term. I consider not only the present requirements for the space, but plan also for possible challenges such as aging, or accessibility requirements when permissible.” Riitta Ylonen, ASID

“If building or buying a multi-level home make sure the master is on the

Owner, Finn Design,Inc.

Have a question for an interior designer? Audio/ Video specialist? A remodel or construction-related query? Space-Planning or Artrelated inquiry? Email your Ask the Board questions to jmccluskey@ floridatoday.com. Note Ask the Board in the subject line. We may address your question in a future issue!

• custom cabinetry and countertops • cultured marble • solid surface • granite • quartz residential & commercial installation

380 Gus Hipp Blvd., Rockledge, FL 32955 358922

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expert advice

Enhance your kitchen with natural stone ly occurring indentations, or other imperfections. Be sure to review these with your supplier prior to your final selection. n

Drawings: These are used by Brevard

Stone to communicate the configuration of the countertop design. The renderings will identify all aspects of the finished product including seams, edge detail, corner detail and other treatments. These will be reviewed and approved by a customer before any fabrication begins. n

Stone slab layout: When working with

highly variegated materials, customer participation in the actual layout of the slab is strongly encouraged. We want to be sure he beauty and permanence of natural stone countertops provide a finishing touch for many kitchens. Brevard Stone consults with customers on design, selection of material and handles installation for a seamless completion. n Material of choice: There are many vari-

eties of natural materials that can be used for countertop surfaces. Granite is undoubt-

the final product is positioned just as you imagined it in your home! n

Choosing a supplier: Investigate your

options. Ask family, friends and neighbors for referrals. Customers working with Brevard Stone from initial consultation through fabrication and installation receive close personal attention.

Brevard Stone has supplied Central edly the most popular stone currently used. Florida for over 32 years with natural The varieties of granite available can vary stone to improve the look and value of significantly in color and quality, and pur-

your home.

chasing from a reputable source guarantees

a quality product for your home.

strive to treat every project with care

We are a family business and we

Finish cabinets first: Cabinets and any

and attention as if it was our own. These

trim that affect the size of the countertops

tips appear courtesy of Gary, Sheila and

should be installed before we measure for

Aubrey with Brevard Stone Inc.

countertops.

Selecting your slab: All natural stones

are one-of-a-kind and may contain natural-

We specialize in: • Marble • Granite • Travertine • Quartz Surfaces • Natural & Cultured Stone • River Rock

Member of Marble Institute of America

Ple a s e f e e l f r e e t o c ont a c t u s

at 321- 63 6 -93 4 4 or ema i l u s at info@brevardstone.com

Serving Brevard County Since 1978

403 S. Cocoa Blvd Cocoa, Florida

321.636.9344 www.brevardstone.com 11

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kitchen stuff we love!

Grab it! Get a handle on these chic upgrades for your kitchen. Knobs worth noticing, fab faucets, stylized sinks and moreâ&#x20AC;Ś

360 degrees of design

This intricate design is from the Juliane Grace collection. Carpe Diemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theory of 360 degrees of design is represented in the detail work seen at every angle. Accented with Swarovski crystals. www.carpediemhome.com spaces

Bedazzling

Crystal knobs add a touch of sophistication. Clear facets reflect light illuminating cabinetry or drawers. Available in clear crystal or jewel-tones. www.topknobsUSA.com

Knobs like no others

The Hummingbird knob shines with a bright clear eye and aqua aurora Swarovski crystals decorate the wing. The raspberry-glazed Rose knob is adorned with clear and aurora borealis crystals. www.carpediemhome.com

Bamboo cabinet pull

Stainless Steel Inspiration

The Raindrops sink designed by Jamie Drake for Elkay USA fuses nature- inspired form with the function of stainless steel. Available locally through Aqua Draulics, Rockledge, 321-631-0400. sales@aquadraulicsonline.com

Tropical treasure

A sparkling Starfish knob is accented with clear and aqua Swarovski Crystals. www.carpediemhome.com

Make a statement with a 12-inch Bamboo cabinet pull. Available in a variety of sizes and colors. www.carpediemhome.com

Delta® Pilar Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet

with Touch2O® Technology in Brilliance Stainless. The intuitive tap technology enables you to turn the faucet on and off with just a touch – anywhere on the faucet’s body or handle. www.DeltaFaucet.com

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Kitchen surfaces combine function and good looks Story by Danika Warren â&#x20AC;˘ Photography by Dave Potter

nce upon a time a kitchen countertop was purely utilitarian; simply a place to put plates on their way to the table or hastily prepare food on its way to the dining room. Only professional chefs or the wealthy had expansive countertops, made of beautiful marble slab or natural stone counters enhancing the kitchen ambiance.

Architect and designer Randall Barnett chose intricate, antique Chinese wooden pendant lights to hang over the quartz countertops in this Asianmodern kitchen. Design details include orange cabinets finished with automotive paint to protect against humidity, steam, and odors.

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kitchen spaces

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Above: The Rodrigues family chose Golden Typhoon granite to complement their Mediterranean style home. “Golden Typhoon, has a very Tuscan look to it,” said Mr. Rodrigues, “…flowing movement with reds, grays, and terracotta.”

You don’t need to know the science behind every countertop material, but there are certain qualities that you will want to consider.

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As kitchens have grown larger they have evolved beyond the traditional heart of the home. They are a center of entertaining where guests congregate, families converge, and nourishment is consumed. The countertop has become an integral design element that enhances this most important room in your home. The right countertop material provides the perfect workspace for a serious chef or an admirable backdrop for entertaining or family meal preparation. Selecting a countertop to suit your tastes, décor and functional needs takes time. Countertop materials are a combination of nature and science, and a major consideration in your kitchen design (and budget); because the perfect surface can have a dramatic impact on your kitchen space. You don’t need to know the science behind every countertop material, but there are certain qualities that you will want to consider. Countertop material selec-

tions may include: laminates, solid surfaces, or natural or engineered stone. You may opt for glass or recycled glass, metal or concrete. There are financial and maintenance considerations, or functional needs that may drive your decision. This is one home project best left to a professional and it is important to deal with a reputable, reliable company that has been, and will be, around for a while. On the following pages, we’ll help you make sense of your options and give you some exceptional examples from homes in the area. SURFACE MATERIAL 1: GRANITE SURFACE MATERIAL 1: GRANITE Color: GOLDEN TYPHOON Color: GOLDEN TYPHOON In the Rockledge home of Jonathan and Davita Rodrigues, visitors will see granite countertops and a matching granite backsplash in their kitchen. These industry-experts and owners of Corinthian Kitchen and Bath have their choice of countertop materials, and granite is their choice. “There is nothing better than a good granite,” insists Rodrigues. In recent years, the price of granite has come down and now starts at around $40 a square-foot, putting it in the same price point as quartz (engineered stone) and solid surfaces. When working with a client who wants granite, Rodrigues will have them look at the whole slab of granite in the warehouse, not just at a sample size block in the showroom. “The slab will look different (than a sample size),” he said. Every slab is unique. Left: Homeowner Davita Rodrigues begins to prepare dinner in her Rockledge home. Angular granite countertops frame her workspace. Organic salad mix courtesy of Appleseed Health Food Store in Rockledge.

RETAIL & WHOLESALE

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duce o r P h f Fres O n o i ct eafood e S l e & S ge Meats c Cheeses t A Lar u C Beers sti e w e m r Fresh o B D ed & Micro t r & o p e Items in Im d W n f i F O ction r d To e a l e H s S d An m ntrée t Huge E e t m a r E am-2p 1 o 1 Gou T y y ida e Read vailabl ay-Fr A d s n e o t fica ches M t Certi f n i u G L Hot

“There Is A Difference” 7856 Ellis Road • Melbourne, Florida • 321.308.0275 Mon.Fri 9am-6:30pm; Sat. 9am-6pm • Sunday Closed

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Above: From the cover. Photography by Dave Potter. Architect and designer Randall Barnett worked on this remodel project. “The owners were looking for an Asianmodern theme with clean lines,” said Barnett.” The design project involved tearing down walls, and ripping out the “old” kitchen. Right: Barnett chose a Caesarstone Quartz countertop, installed by Brevard Stone to complete the theme. “It looks like well-worn stones you would see in a Japanese garden.” The portable wooden bar adds countertop space and seating. Sushi platter courtesy of Orchid Bistro restaurant in Melbourne.

Granite is exceptionally stain resistant, more so than many synthetic materials, including laminates and solid surface plastics such as Corian.

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As a large granite fabricator, Corinthian Kitchen and Bath averages 32 countertop jobs a month and moved 450 slabs of granite last year. For their home, the Rodriguez family chose Golden Typhoon granite to complement their Mediterranean style home. “Golden Typhoon, has a very Tuscan look to it,” said Rodriguez, “…flowing movement with reds, grays, and terracotta.” The stone complements the kitchen’s red glass cabinet doors and dark wood cabinets. They also used a full height backsplash for a seamless transition. SURFACE MATERIAL 2: SURFACE MATERIAL 2:Caesarstone CaesarstoneQuart, QuartZ, Color: Pebble Color: Pebble Polished Architect and designer, Randall Barnett of Palm Springs, California worked on a kitchen remodel project for a local Melbourne couple. In their riverfront home near the Pineda Causeway, the homeowners wanted a fresh design for their vacation home. “The owners were looking for an Asian-modern theme with clean lines,” said Barnett. The design project involved tearing down walls, ripping out the “old” kitchen, and building columns that were covered in stainless steel. Scott Carswell of Carswell Construction worked closely with Mr. Barnett to bring the contemporary Asian kitchen to life. Even though the homeowners were in Cape Cod, the designer was in California, and the project was in Florida, distance was never a problem. Carswell recorded videos of the con-

Top 10 kitchen surfaces

Concrete: Custom-ordered with a large variety of colors available. Concrete is porous and needs to be sealed and waxed periodically to avoid damage and stains. It remains expensive to install. Granite: Hard natural stone cut from the earth. Every slab is unique. It is durable, scratch and heat resistant, and easy to clean. Some of the softer granites need to be sealed periodically. Laminate: Preformed plastic laminate is installed over particle board or plywood. Formica® and Wilsonart® offer many unique patterns. Laminate is inexpensive, easy to clean, durable and available in many colors. However, scratches and chips aren’t repairable and the seams usually show. Laminates can be prone to water damage at the seams. Modern laminates offer solid color throughout the thickness of the piece, and edges can be beveled. Can be an option to save money on a kitchen remodel that you could update to a solid surface at a later date. Marble. A softer natural stone. It is superb for kneading dough, but chips and stains easily. It requires maintenance-to be sealed periodically. Not usually recommended for kitchens. Quartz: Quartz-based countertops are also called engineered stone. While quartz itself is a natural stone, quartz aggregate is blended with polymers and pigments to create durable quartz countertops. Quartz is easy to clean and resistant to stains and scratches. There are many color selections available and color and texture are consistent throughout each piece. It is about the

same cost as granite. Several companies created their own engineered stone products including: Silestone®, Ceasarstone® and Zodiaq®. Soapstone: A softer natural stone. Rich, deep colors, and a smooth feel. It usually doesn’t crack but can dent and may weather and darken over time. Some people enjoy this aged look. Maintenance includes oiling to seal and shine the surface. Solid surface: The most popular solid surface is DuPont’s Corian®. Countertops require custom installation and although the product is seamed; the seams are filled and polished so they become virtually invisible. The material is consistent in color and pattern throughout; which allows it to be repaired by buffing if scratches occur. Solid surfaces are acrylic-based and while they have a warmer feel than some natural stones – high heat will damage the material. Stainless steel: Contemporary with an industrial look, heat resistant and durable. It is expensive, however and is easily scratched by utensils, or pots, may dent, and you can’t cut on it. It is easy to clean and anti-bacterial. Wood or butcher block: Wood countertops are often used on islands or accents pieces. Butcher block is available from 1-inch thick up to 6 inches, and almost anything in between. Treat wood countertops with mineral oil every month. Sand out stains and re-oil for a new surface. A variety of edge profiles can be used with wood tops and there are many wood species to choose from. *Note: It is always safest to consult with your retailer or supplier for specific care and maintenance procedures for your own countertop surface. Our intention is to provide some general material considerations for you before you make your selection. (Listed in alphabetical order.)

E360932

Ceramic tile: Although tile can be inexpensive and is available in vibrant colors and patterns; it can chip and grout lines may show dirt easily. Tile creates an uneven countertop surface that may be difficult to keep clean. Ceramic tile is often used in backsplashes.

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struction process to communicate progress with Barnett, and he was able to remotely manage the project. Barnett chose a Caesarstone Quartz countertop, installed by Brevard Stone, called Pebble to complete the theme. “It looks like well-worn stones you would see in a Japanese garden. It also blends with the concrete fireplace and the stainless steel appliances.” Barnett chose intricate, antique Chinese wooden pendant lights to hang over the kitchen island, and the orange cabinets were finished with automotive paint to protect against humidity, steam, and odors. The portable wooden bar adds countertop space and seating. It was hand- made in China according to Barnett’s instructions; shipped to an importer in Chicago and then shipped to Florida to be installed by Mr. Carswell in the home.

Above top: Granite countertops were also selected by homeowners Frank and Patti Jo Whitney of Satellite Beach. When choosing a slab Mrs. Whitney kept coming back to the same pattern over and over. “I love all the activity in it,” “It sparkles.” Gourmet fruit and cheese tray courtesy of Petty’s Meat Market in Suntree. Above: Brevard Stone designed a unique wave side splash at the edge of the backsplash which softens the look.

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SURFACE MATERIAL 3: GRANITE SURFACE MATERIAL 3: GRANITE Color:MASCARELLO BLANCO MASCARELLO BLANCO Color: When Frank and Patti Jo Whitney moved into their 1970s Satellite Beach home in August last year they wanted to change it to reflect their personal style. “It was very nice, but it just wasn’t us,” said Mrs. Whitney. For the kitchen, new granite kitchen countertops made the statement they were looking for. When choosing a stone Mrs. Whitney kept coming back to the same pattern over and over. “I love all the activity in it,” said Patti Jo. “It sparkles.” The sparkle effect in the Mascarello Blanco granite comes from

small bits of Mica, which looks like reflective foil. “It has a lot going on,” said Aubrey Barrett of Brevard Stone who installed the granite. There are also translucent chunks of Quartz, allowing you to see down into the stone and giving it depth, as well as creamy pieces of Feldspar. There are black, brown and white layers adding movement throughout the counter area. “I just love coming in here,” said Mrs. Whitney. She is not the only one who loves their new kitchen. With their three children also living in the house, the Whitney’s wanted as much seating area in the kitchen as possible. They worked with Brevard Stone to design a sit down bar area to finish the space. A full height backsplash in the same granite makes the kitchen seem larger. The backsplash is a solid piece of stone stretching from the top of the counter to the underside of the cabinets. Brevard Stone created a unique wave side splash at the edge of the backsplash in the buffet area, which softens the look. “The use of full height splash on the side of a wall or cabinet would be heavy if it was finished with a square splash,” said Mr. Barrett. ”By creating a custom side splash our fabricators get the chance to use their imagination.”

Studies prove that granite, quartz and stainless steel are among the safest and cleanest countertop materials on the market today.

SURFACE MATERIAL: THINKGLASS

Granite: Myth vs. Fact There are many myths surrounding the pros and cons of granite vs. solid surface or quartz. Here, we try to dispel some of the rumors and give you the facts.

Myth: Granite is Expensive FACT: In recent years, the price of granite has dropped significantly and is comparable to and sometimes even less expensive than, engineered stone or quartz (like Silestone) and solid surface.

Myth: Granite will Stain FACT: Granite is exceptionally

find out which stones will work best for you and your lifestyle.

Myth: Granite will lose its shine FACT: Both natural and synthetic stone counter tops are polished by grinding and buffing the surface into a smooth shine. Normal household activities simply will not dull granite.

Myth: Granite is difficult to maintain FACT: There is very little maintenance involved aside from routine cleaning with soap and water.

stain resistant, more so than many synthetic materials, including laminates and solid surface plastics such as Corian.

Myth: Heat will crack granite FACT: Granite is solid stone. It

Myth: Granite must be resealed regularly FACT: There are hard and softer

has no constituent materials capable of burning at under several thousand degrees.

granites. Some softer stone may need to be resealed periodically to prevent staining, but most will never need to be resealed. It is best to work with a distributer to

Myth: Granite emits radon gases FACT: Some granite countertops have been found to give off trace amounts of radon, but not

in any significant amount. The Marble Institute of America analyzed 52 samples of granite used most frequently in homes and found that the vast majority added “almost immeasurable amounts of radon to the house.”

Myth: Granite harbors bacteria FACT: Studies prove that granite, quartz and stainless steel are among the safest and cleanest counter tops materials on the market today. (See study at www.marble-institute.com)

Myth: Granite cannot be repaired FACT: Granite can indeed be repaired, but it doesn’t break very easily or very often. If granite chips or cracks (which can happen if it is struck with a heavy object), it can be refinished or repaired with colored epoxies.

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SURFACE MATERIAL 4: THINKGLASS Color: CRYSTAL WITH GRANULA TEXTURE Color: CRYSTAL WITH GRANULA TEXTURE

Above top: A custom glass bar in a blue-hued ThinkGlass with a textured edge and textured underside mimics ripples of water in this kitchen remodel by designer Patricia Brown of Patricia Davis Brown Fine Cabinetry. Above: The glass bar was paired with Honed Black granite in the u-shaped cooking center. Photos by Rob Downey.

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A Vero Beach couple hired kitchen designer Patricia Brown of Patricia Davis Brown Fine Cabinetry to work with them on the kitchen remodel in their 1970’s ranch style home. “The homeowners wanted a soft contemporary feel,” Ms. Brown said, referring to the design and décor as “earthy” with a lot of natural earth and water elements. Pressed bamboo cabinetry, a glass bar, and Honed Black Absolute granite countertops, sit atop walnut floors. Stainless steel appliances and design accents work next to a concrete table inlaid with seashells. All the individual elements were integral to the overall design. The blue-hued glass, by ThinkGlass caught the homeowner’s eye, and the countertops became a focal point of the room. ThinkGlass created a 1 ½ inches- wide, custom glass bar with a textured edge and a textured underside that looks like ripples of water. Both textures are formed when the hot glass is poured into a mold. Brown worked closely with the homeowners, the architect and the builder to create this unique u-shaped cooking center, which is functional and provides a great flow to the space that is shared with the 3’x8’ custom concrete dining table.

SURFACE MATERIAL 5: CONCRETE

Left: The dining table was created by adding a cocoa color to the concrete to enhance the warm natural feel of the room. Laser-cut conch shells were set into the concrete, adding a touch of delicate pink swirl to the solid, sturdy table. Photograph by Rob Downey.

SURFACE MATERIAL 5: CONCRETE Color:COCOA WITH LASER-CUT CONCH SHELLS COCOA WITH LASER-CUT CONCH SHELLS Color: As the dining table was created, a cocoa color was added to the concrete to enhance the warm, natural earthy feel of the room. Laser-cut slices of conch shells were set into the concrete, adding a touch of delicate pink swirl to the solid, sturdy table. Brown worked with an Amish company to design the base of the table. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re building a new home or refreshing an existing space; reference our counter points to consider your options in the market today. Although in no way does this represent a comprehensive list of all materials available; we hope it provides assistance in navigating countertop surfaces. Which will you choose? n Thank you to our contributors: Jonathan and Davita Rodrigues of Corinthian Kitchen & Bath, Scott Carswell of Carswell Construction, Randall Barnett of Barnett Architects, Aubrey Barrett of Brevard Stone, Patricia Brown of Patricia Davis Brown Fine Cabinetry.

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Sunny, Sunny Point A peek inside the home of Melbourneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite Diva Story by Maria Sonnenberg â&#x20AC;˘ Photography by Rob Downey spaces

t is a blustery and unusually cold January morning, and Loretta Grella-Sorbello is trying to get over a bad cold. A vital part of her â&#x20AC;&#x153;chicken soupâ&#x20AC;? recipe to restore her spirits is to enjoy the 360-degree views from her waterfront Eau Gallie home. And what a view it is! Ballard Park, the Eau Gallie River, the Indian River Lagoon and the Eau Gallie Causeway are just a glance away from anywhere in the Sorbello residence, situated next door to Ballard House on one acre of historic Sunny Point, where the Eau Gallie River spills into the lagoon. 25

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Above and above right: The theme of family drives the décor in the sprawling first floor of the 4,500 –square-foot home. Comfortable yet elegant furnishings, from the rich leather sofas to the billiards table, invite guests to linger.

Ballard Park, the Eau Gallie River, the Indian River Lagoon and the Eau Gallie Causeway are just a glance away from anywhere in the Sorbello residence. spaces

“It was location, location, location,” explains Grella-Sorbello about her love affair with her home. Serendipity drew her to the house even after Loretta and her husband, Parrish Medical Center radiologist Dr. Michael Sorbello, were set to start building a new home in a development. “We had all the plans and were ready to start when I looked at real estate listings and saw this,” says Loretta. The couple wanted a house convenient to Michael’s Titusville commute and to Loretta’s store, Downtown Divas in Melbourne. The Sunny Point house was that…and a lot more. “It had so much potential that we bought it and chucked our other plans,” says Loretta. At that point, the house had good bones but little else. Because its Boca Raton owner used it as a weekend retreat from the South

Florida hubbub, the house had a minimalist feel. “There was dirt up to the house,” says Michael. “There was no porch, just dirt all around.” Like a wayward but smart teenager, the 1996 house needed a steady hand to lead it into adulthood. The Sorbellos provided the needed confidence, with a bold makeover that emphasizes the enviable water views. Gone were the multi-light windows, replaced by a one-piece – and hurricane proof – Andersen style. Even the master bedroom’s ample shower boasts an outdoor view. “My husband says it’s a bad day when he doesn’t see dolphins while he takes a shower,” says Loretta. The wildness surrounding the home was tamed by the addition of a winding paved path that meanders from a

Above: Loretta, Michael and Savannah relax outside at historic Sunny Point.

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Above: In the downstairs guest bath the colors are cool and airy. The waves in the blue marble floor lap against the sculpted legs of the vanity and the inviting claw-foot tub.

cul-de-sac, offering outstanding waterscapes at every pace. At the bottom of the road, the home welcomes with massive columns flanking mahogany double doors. With Loretta’s guidance, former screened porches became elegant balconies that allow for even greater enjoyment of the live oaks and mangroves that are the crown jewels of the landscape. A pool casually follows the triangular shape of the property. The Sorbellos can thank Savannah, their Rhodesian Ridgeback pooch, for connecting them with the design team that would help them to properly outfit their new place. “I was living in Palm Bay at the time and walking my dog with another lady who had a Rhodesian Ridgeback,” says Loretta. The woman introduced her to Donna Williams and Michelle Croswell of Home Sweet Home Designs. The two interior decorators easily honed in on the Sorbellos’ vision for their property. “Family is very important to Mike and Loretta,” says Donna. “We also wanted to keep the focus on the outdoors.” The theme of family drives the décor in the sprawling first floor of the 4,500-square-foot home. Comfortable yet elegant furnishings, from the rich leather sofas to the billiards table, invite guests to linger. “We wanted the view to take your breath away,” says Williams. “It’s a place where you can kick off your shoes and feel

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Above: The dining room table is a new addition courtesy of interior decorators Donna Williams and Michelle Croswell. It provides a classic frame to the Royal Albert, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Old Country Rosesâ&#x20AC;? china Loretta inherited from her Mother.

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Above: The kitchen table nook at the northeastern corner of the property provides expansive water views and a quiet spot for morning coffee. Flowers by Link Johnsten of Eau Gallie Florist.

comfortable and yet it’s beautiful to behold.” Ballet holds a special place in Loretta’s heart. Her mother danced, as does her daughter and Loretta is on the board of Space Coast Ballet, so it is no wonder much of the artwork around the home spotlights the dance form. Although a new find from Williams and Croswell, the ample dining room table appears as a classic frame to the china settings Loretta inherited from her mom. A former wine cabinet, reborn as a built-in china hutch, adds a turn-ofthe-century feel to the space. “We like wine, but the cabinet just seemed to fit here,” says Loretta. Upstairs, the Heritage Room warmly continues the tale of family life. A wall of photographs arranged by Williams and Croswell serves as a fond trip into the past. “It tells the story of the two families,” says Williams. Anchored by P. Buckley Moss artwork, old family photographs recount special moments and ordinary days long gone. Loretta’s first Bible is by the bedside, next to her grandmother’s chair now lovingly reupholstered. The Home Sweet Home team complemented upscale spaces

The original kitchen layout and cabinetry remained with a few changes that included new granite countertops. The kitchen flows well with the dining room, making entertaining a breeze.

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accessories, such as the bed linens from Anthropologie, with affordable finds that include a rug from T. J. Maxx. “We get the best quality for the best price,” says Williams. “We shop for our clients like it is our own money.” In Rachael’s room, Williams and Croswell transformed the girl’s beloved bed and dresser with the help of new knobs and a clever faux finish. “She had had the bed since she was five, but Rachael was transitioning into adulthood, so we wanted to make it more age appropriate,” says Williams. “We repurposed something that was very precious to the family.” For the master suite, Croswell and Williams took their cue from the ornate mahogany bed Loretta found in a North Carolina antique store. “The bed was the inspiration for the room,” says Williams. Water views dominate the room, so few accessories were required to complete the design, but a miniature mission recliner, once the childhood chair of Loretta’s great uncle, and an antique dress form, a Mother’s Day gift to Loretta from Michael, catch the Top left: Upstairs in the Heritage Room a wall of photographs arranged by Williams and Croswell eye of any guest. serves as a fond trip into the past. The Home Sweet From the masters suite large balcony, the Sorbellos can watch Home team complemented upscale bed linens from sailboats glide along the Intracoastal and, every Fourth of July, Anthropologie, with affordable finds including a rug from T.J. Maxx. Above top and above: In Rachael’s enjoy primo seats for the Melbourne fireworks. room, Williams and Croswell transformed the bed Next door to the Heritage Room, Michael’s study overlooks Bal- and dresser she’s had since she was five with the lard Park, framed by the sculptural branches of an old live oak. The help of new knobs and a clever faux finish.

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A miniature mission recliner, once the childhood chair of Loretta’s great uncle, and an antique dress form, a Mother’s Day gift to Loretta from Michael, catch the eye of any guest.

Above top and above: For the master suite, Croswell and Williams took their cue from the ornate mahogany bed Loretta found in a North Carolina antique store. Right: The office chairs blend a chenille fabric with an animal print and the rug is from the Tommy Bahama Collection. We wanted the intimate room to feel organic with botanical accents in the art and florals. The traditional feel of the paneling is warmed by Benjamin Moore, Pear Green, walls and contemporary touches in the style of the chairs and graphic art. spaces

mahogany panels were already in place when the Sorbellos bought the house, but they proved to be too much of a good thing. “There were no windows, so it felt like a box,” says Loretta, who, despite protestations from her contractor, removed paneling to make room for a window. Luck may have drawn the couple to the home, but the renovations did not go effortlessly. Just days after Loretta and Mike finished the home, the two hurricanes of 2004 struck within two weeks of each other, sending both live fish and roof tiles into the new pool, wreaking havoc with the new dock and destroying the summer kitchen. “The icemaker was by the Point, and we never did find the sink,” says Loretta. But all is well that ends well, and the damage was eventually repaired. Loretta knows how special her home is. “It’s away from everything, yet close to everything,” sums up Loretta. “We will never be able to find another property like this.” To contact Home Sweet Home Designs, call 480-3363 or 427-1379. n

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g reservin P 3 portrait artists convene to share their techniques Story by Maria Sonnenberg Photography by Rob Downey

om Powers, one of the staunchest advocates for artists in Brevard, knows good art when he sees it, so it’s no surprise that Powers admires the work of three very different but equally talented local portrait artists. Regardless of their medium of choice, a good portraitist captures both the likeness and essence of their subjects. Such is the case with Derek Gores, Jon Houghton and Sandy Johnson. Gores prefers collage while Houghton opts for oils and Sandy favors pastels. Their styles, like their media, also differ. Gores gravitates towards a sexy edginess. Houghton’s paintings are classic, timeless. Johnson’s pastels flow with the ease of waves on the sand. As it happens, Powers owns works from the trio. “I’m amazed by Derek’s collages, I love Jon’s classical approach and I’m impressed by the looseness of Sandy’s portraits,” says Powers. Johnson’s pastel of Powers’ daughter, Amy, took pride of place over the Powers fireplace until just recently, when Jon’s new portrait of Powers’ wife, Dotty seemed perfect for that heart-of-the-household location. “We found another great spot for Amy,” says Powers. “I really like how Sandy can capture a likeness while still being painterly and loose. She captured Amy’s mannerisms. There’s no doubt that’s Amy. I also like how Jon’s paintings are so traditional and classical. They will be heirlooms someday. People who aren’t yet born will have them hanging in their homes someday.” Left: Jon Houghton started at age one – always having a crayon or pencil in his hand. He prefers the realism of oil paints because he feels it allows him the greatest range of expression.

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Above: Local art advocate and collector, Tom Powers has collected works from all three local artists. Powers commissioned artist Sandy Johnson to create a portrait of his daughter Amy. “She captured Amy’s mannerisms.” “There’s no doubt that’s Amy.” spaces

Unbeknownst to Powers, the Brevard Art Museum commissioned Gores to do a portrait collage of Powers in appreciation of Powers’ work as interim art director. As is his modus operandi, Gores searched for the photos, the colors and the scraps of type that he uses as “paint” to give viewers a thorough picture of the subject. “The portrait is of me, but it’s also the story of my life,” says Tom. “It’s something very personal.” Powers is not the only one showering accolades on the three artists, who all have won numerous awards and are in demand for commissions. Collector Cheryl Scott saw Gores at work during a fundraiser at Florida Tech. “He was working on a portrait he was donating to the Autism Center,” says Scott. Scott asked Gores to portray her son, Reece, a Georgetown University junior studying abroad at Nanzan University in Nagoya, Japan. “It catches Reece’s essence completely,” says Scott. “People look at it and say “yes, that’s Reece,” and then they get up close to see all the details Derek put in. They find all kinds of interesting things.” Reece’s passion for all things Japanese is easy to see in the picture, which depicts the young man sporting a cheeky t-shirt that proclaims in Japanese his search for an Asian girlfriend. Gores also added references to Reece’s other interests, from anime art to Jelly Belly candy. Like Gores, Johnson’s ability to capture her subjects delights collectors. Her talent has earned her membership in the American Impressionist Society and inclusion in “American Art Collector” magazine, as well as plenty of awards.

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Above: “I turned to pastels because using them is like being a kid again. It’s such an immediate, purest form of pigment.” Sandy Johnson

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Above: Artist Derek Gores searches for photos, colors and the scraps of type that he uses as “paint” to create a portrait. The assembled bits and details of a person’s life are transformed into an image and likeness true to his subject.

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Collector Rick Kendust thought so highly of Houghton that he commissioned Jon not just once, but three times. “I asked him to do portraits of my three children as a birthday gift for my wife,” says Kendust. “The likenesses are phenomenal.” On a December morning, the three portrait artists convened at Powers’ Guava Art House gallery just steps from the Brevard Art Museum to answer questions about their very different approaches to art.

Derek Gores

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Spaces: What is the concept behind your collages? Derek: I try to make them celebratory, inspirational. I want the viewer to see the nuances of the personality of the person, so that it feels like moments of a life. I try to make everybody look and feel good as I capture their true personality. Spaces: How do you go about that? Derek: It’s like putting together all the stuff you have in the shoebox under the bed and making it meaningful. I try to get to know the person, information about past jobs, places where he’s lived, pets, his jokes, and his favorite candy. For Tom’s painting, I used pictures of his daughter, a map of Alaska, because he spent time there and a lot of water-related pieces because he loves the sea. Dotty furnished me with a lot of materials, but I also have bins of old magazines that I will use for texture and color. Friends will call to tell me they have copies to give me.

Above: Collector Cheryl Scott asked Gores to portray her son, Reece, a Georgetown University junior studying abroad at Nanzan University in Japan. “People look at it and say ‘yes, that’s Reece,’ and then they get up close to see all the details Derek put in.” 41

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Above: Collector Rick Kendust thought so highly of Houghton that he commissioned Jon, not just once, but three times. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I asked him to do portraits of my three children as a birthday gift for my wife.â&#x20AC;? Seated left to right, Rick and Brandi Kendust. spaces

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Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had someone ask me to do a portrait made out of pictures of her shoes. Another sitter wanted to use only concert tickets. Spaces: Which magazines give you the most fodder for collage paper? Derek: The glossy fashion magazines like â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vogueâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wâ&#x20AC;? work very well.

Jon Houghton Spaces: What makes a traditional portrait artist tick? Jon: Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just the most obsessive compulsive! My mom always said that since I was one year old I never had a pencil or crayon out of my hand. I remember when I was eight and one of the kids in school called me an artist. I asked him why he said that and he replied that it was because I was always drawing. That was the first time I realized that art was not something everyone else did. Spaces: Why oils and realism? Jon: For me, the king of mediums is oil. Oil allows the greatest range and expression. In college, we were forced to do abstracts. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to do them, but in retrospect, I learned a lot from it. Spaces: How do you go about developing each work? Jon: I use photos as the sketching process, so I take a lot of pictures. When I decide what composition I like, I put the person in that pose. I usually have the person sit live for the parts of the painting that have to do with flesh tones. I start fluid, with a lot of pencil or charcoal sketches and then move on to the painting from there. Spaces: How important is it to get to know the subject? Jon: John Singer Sargent said it was better if you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know

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Above: Tools of the trade: Jon mixes his oil paints on a palette.

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Above: Sandy Johnson’s pastels flow with the ease of waves on the sand.

“You look for light and shadow. You start applying color with feeling. It’s like making love to your canvas.” – Sandy Johnson

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the person. For me, it doesn’t seem to matter.

Sandy Johnson Spaces: How did you get started in art? Sandy: I was born in Australia and married an American in the Air Force. We came to the States in ’74 and I started painting in ’84, when a friend wanted me to join her in a class on being more creative. I didn’t even know it was an art class. I thought it was a sewing class. It got me fired up, though. (Cocoa Village art teacher) Charlotte Griffin got me started with oils. I turned to pastels because using them is like being a kid again. It’s such an immediate, purest form of pigment. They’re very convenient, too. You can work fast. The paint is not going to dry up. You can put it aside and do something else and come back to it later.

Above: Gores describes his process: “It’s like putting together all the stuff you have in the shoebox under the bed and making it meaningful. I try to get to know the person, information about past jobs, places where he’s lived, pets, his jokes, and his favorite candy.” Right: Our three portrait artists at Tom Power’s Guava Art House.

Spaces: Do you use photos for reference? Sandy: I work from photos until about ¾ of the way through. Then it’s time to “find the magic.” You look for light and shadow. You start applying color with feeling. It’s like making love to your canvas. When you’re little, you’re told to paint within the lines. When you grow up, you get to paint outside the lines. You learn the rules and then you learn to break the rules. Spaces: Any plans to go into another medium? Sandy: I’ve joined the Brevard Watercolor Society. I told them I was going to take away some of their prize money! You always hear that watercolors are difficult, so you’ve got to forget about that. It’s just paint. To learn more about the artists: Derek Gores: www.derekgores.com or 258-2119 Jon Houghton: www.jkhoughton.com or 723-4884 Sandy Johnson: 752-5564 n

Above: Houghton works on a portrait of Power’s wife Dotty, as real-life Dotty sits live in the background.

“I try to make them celebratory, inspirational. I want the viewer to see the nuances of the personality of the person, so that it feels like moments of a life.” – Derek Gores 45

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Universal design Space-planning for a lifetime Story by Anne Straub Photography by Rob Downey Bill and Kathy Morrell loved the view from their riverfront home. When they needed more room, they decided to add on rather than move. So they built an addition over the garage. The home was beautiful and spacious, but unfortunately, it became unlivable. After an accident left Bill Morrell in a wheelchair, the couple found the home unaccommodating. Chief among the problems was the lack of a bedroom on the first floor. “I never thought of these things when I built that house, or that addition. It would have been very easy and cost very little – or almost nothing – to do these things then,” said Bill Morrell. Last year, he and Kathy worked with Dave Foley of Home Solutions Specialists to gut and remodel a ranch home in Viera to suit his needs.

The concept of universal design recognizes the need for homes to be barrier-free and provide mobility and independence for people with a variety of physical needs. Getting older or experiencing a long-term change in health can force people to consider accessibility renovations to their home. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Universal design, as the concept is known, can be beneficial to any homeowner. 47

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Above: Interior designer Riitta Ylonen worked with homeowners in Rockledge to eliminate the drop from the bathroom floor to the shower floor. There’s also no shower door to maneuver, and openings are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. Previous page: Bill and Kathy Morrell.

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“It’s the ergonomics of the human condition,” Foley said, and encompasses such things as eliminating sharp corners, or making sure stair lighting is adequate. Those design elements create a more comfortable home for anyone, and can add functionality for those with special needs – even if they don’t live in the house. Often, the person needing the design adjustments isn’t the homeowner, but an elderly relative or frequent visitor. And sometimes, forward-thinking homeowners consider universal design for the next homeowner, hoping to increase the future marketability of their home by making it accessible. Interior designer Riitta Ylonen, ASID, NCIDQ, and owner of Finn Design Inc., is working with Rockledge homeowners building a riverfront home. None of the family members are disabled. But Ylonen designed the basic floor plan to allow circulation in the space and access to bath48

Left and above: On a remodel project, Ylonen re-designed a vanity using pocket doors that open and slide in allowing a chair to roll in under the vanity. The mirror starts immediately above the backsplash, to allow a reflection at a lower height.

10 tips to incorporate universal design into your space:

rooms, kitchen, and more, for a wheelchair, if necessary. The universal design concept has been a common technique in her home country of Finland for over the past 25 years, she said. “Simple changes in space planning for a new construction could make a true sustainable home. By taking into account a few universal design standards, a house can be fairly easily transformed to accommodate changes we come across in our lifetime, such as children, aging and possible disabilities,” she said. In the Rockledge home, for example, the drop from the bathroom floor to the shower floor was eliminated. “There was supposed to be a step down, but there was no reason for that,” she said. There’s also no shower door to maneuver, and openings are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. Ylonen also uses handheld showers, in addition to fixed shower heads, in bathrooms. Someone who can’t stand for a long period can sit on the built-in ledge and use the handheld shower. Additional blocking behind the tile work is all ready in place, so homeowners can add grab bars in the future without having to tear out the tile. She also worked on a renovation at a Lansing Island home, where the owners remodeled a first-floor bathroom to accommodate a parent who uses a wheelchair. In place of the single shower door and a fixed glass panel, Ylonen used double doors for a wider opening. She used a teak grill to raise the lower shower pan to the level of the main floor. The design replaced the vessel sink with a drop-in

n Improve indoor air quality by eliminating heavy draperies and valances, which can harbor dust. Some fabrics available for window treatments break up pollutants and odors. Using an insulating liner can keep the space cooler in summer and warmer in winter. n Use rocker light switches and door handles instead of knobs. Both are easier on arthritic hands. n Eliminate a step up at the entry. A zero-grade entry also adds a custom feel to the house, said general contractor David Foley of Home Solution Specialists. n Eliminate a shower curb and add blocking in the walls to accommodate a grab bar. n Avoid changing levels within the home, such as a sunken living room. If there are changes in elevation, delineate them with a change in color, material or tactility. n Use self-closing full extension drawers, which close completely with just a small push. n Place a microwave under the counter instead of over the oven – easier for children and for people who use wheelchairs. n Locate faucets to the side of the sink to make them easier to reach. n Plan for extra space around kitchen islands to aid mobility. n Some accessibility improvements have the added benefit of being green. For example, an occupancy sensor can turn on a light when someone enters a room – and turn it off when they leave. Lighter paint colors improve visibility in a room, and can lead to using less electricity for lighting. 49

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Right: Part of the Morrell’s renovation was a ramp in the middle of the three-car garage. Bill can enter his car from the ramp, independently.

“By taking into account a few universal design standards, a house can be fairly easily transformed to accommodate changes we come across in our lifetime, such as children, aging and possible disabilities.” — RITTA YLONEN

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sink, making the existing wall-mounted faucets reachable for a wheelchair user. The mirror starts immediately above the backsplash, to allow a reflection at a lower height. The new vanity uses pocket doors in front, which open and slide in to allow the chair to roll in under the vanity. Inside, pipes are covered to prevent burns. “It looks like a regular vanity until you open the doors and push them in,” Ylonen said. Designers agree that’s a readily achievable aspect of universal design: The home can look like any other, without any obvious aspects of accessibility. It simply will work better for more people. “There’s no reason that a towel bar can’t be functional as an assistance bar, whether it’s needed at the moment or not,” Foley said. And if a grab bar is needed in the shower, it doesn’t need to be industrial-looking stainless steel. Such bars often are chosen to meet an accessibility code for commercial establishments; homeowners can select designer bars in colors and textures to complement the bath. Rounded corners on vanities can prevent bruises when visiting the bathroom in the middle of the night, and a wellplaced light can prevent accidents. “Everybody’s had that experience where you walk into the garage and trip on the step builders put by the laundry room,” Foley said. His solution: Put some conscious thought into design at the front end, and many problems can be avoided. In the case of the Morrell renovation, he was accommodating a known disability and specific needs. Foley spent a lot of time listening to Bill and Kathy talk about their lifestyle, what worked, and what didn’t. They chose to relocate to Indian River Colony Club in

Viera. Having a view is important to Bill, and the community provides yard care, exterior home maintenance and appliance repairs. Bill retired from the Air Force in 1996, and still works in the air defense industry. To meet his desire for a view, Foley added an office and porch overlooking the golf course. One of the most innovative solutions was to place a ramp in the middle of the three-car garage. Bill can enter his car from the ramp and wheel directly into the laundry room of the home. Once inside, there are no elevation changes throughout the house. And for safety reasons, he’s able to exit through any door in the house. After Bill’s 2007 injury, the couple listened to people’s

Above: Dave Foley helped the Morrell’s design a spacious master bath that includes his and her sinks with specific modifications for Bill’s easeof-use. Details include space under the vanity to accommodate his legs and a tap drain instead of a plunger so there’s no hardware under the sink to get in the way. The sizeable shower offers space for his chair to turn around and a hand-held shower within his reach.

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Above top: In the kitchen, there’s extra space around the island to allow Bill to turn the wheelchair. Necessary dishes are positioned in lower cabinets for him to access easily. Cabinets use drawer pulls that are functional from a sitting position. Above: The Morrells even found a refrigerator with a freezer on the bottom that is at a good height for Bill to reach in and grab items, even at the back of the drawer. spaces

advice to avoid making immediate major changes. Instead, they kept a file of problems they encountered and things they thought would make life easier. “The process is very evolutionary,” Kathy said. One need that Kathy began to notice was for storage. “There’s not just that man in a chair. There’s a lot of equipment,” she said. They own a manual lift, for use in case Bill falls, as well as a power chair in addition to his manual wheelchair. Foley found extra space by combining a den and bathroom and adding them to a larger master suite. The space includes extra room in Kathy’s large walk-in closet to accommodate the bulky equipment, as well as a spacious master bath so that Bill has room to maneuver. Cabinets were placed for his reach, with room under the vanity to accommodate his legs. There’s a tap drain instead of a plunger so there’s no hardware to get in his way under the sink. In the kitchen, there’s extra space around the island to allow Bill to turn the wheelchair. Cabinets and appliances are positioned to allow him access. The pantry door is wide enough for him to roll in and pull out drawers. Windows use hand cranks so Bill can operate them, doors use spring-loaded hinges so that they close after him, and they found a washing machine with an automatic detergent dispenser so he can operate it. “Sometimes it seems like it’s such a little

Above: Windows use hand cranks so Bill can operate them easily. Even the thermostat was lowered to be within Bill’s sight-line so he can see and adjust as needed.

thing, but it makes such a huge difference,” Kathy said. The resulting renovation was honored in the 2009 Fall Parade of Homes for its universal design – an aspect of the home that many visitors didn’t notice because of its seamlessness. That was important to the Morrells, especially after the months Bill spent living at rehabilitation centers. “It was very important that we didn’t’ have something institutional,” Kathy said. “It helps our mental state.” n

“Sometimes it seems like it’s such a little thing, but it makes such a huge difference.” — KATHY MORRELL

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in the biz

Active senior communities Resort-style amenities attract retirees Story by Anne Straub Photography by Dave Potter he nest is empty, retirement is near or has arrived, and now’s the time to pursue activities that were put on hold for too long. For many Brevard County residents, they’re all available right in their own community. Travel, outdoor sports, card games and fine dining are just some of the activities organized by and for seniors living in active adult developments. Note that the list of activities does not include yard work: Maintenance-free living has become a hallmark of the over-55 lifestyle.

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The outdoor pool and lounge area at Indian River Colony Club is a rendezvous point for pool and clubhouse activities.

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IRCC was founded in the early 1980s by a retired Air Force brigadier general with the goal of providing extensive amenities and a sense of community for former military officers. Today, the neighborhood includes non-military households as well.

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Residents who’ve spent their lives maintaining a home can scratch all those chores off their to-do lists. That’s an aspect of life at Indian River Colony Club that attracted Garry and Lydia Boyer to the Viera 55-and-older community. No more appliance repair, AC fixes, roof replacement, lawn care, pest control or pressure washing. All that and more is covered by the IRCC maintenance crew. The extra time is quickly filled, thanks to IRCC’s extensive amenity center. The community includes a full-size, par 72 18-hole golf course, three Har-Tru tennis courts, a heated 3,000-square-foot swimming pool and a clubhouse with an executive chef serving casual to gourmet cuisine. Amenities are free of debt and accompanying assessments, a major attraction to potential members, said John Robinson, IRCC general manager. The clubhouse is known as the At Ease Club, a nod to the community’s military roots. IRCC was founded in the early 1980s by a retired Air Force brigadier general with the goal of providing extensive amenities and a sense of community for former military officers. Today, they’re the largest group of residents, but the neighborhood includes non-military households, as well. Boyer

Left: Time is filled quickly for IRCC residents whether on the par 72, 18-hole golf course or, meeting with one of several clubs in Colony Hall.

“We really knew better than we realized,” Judi Bickmore said of her decision with husband Duke to purchase a home at IRCC.

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Above: The At Ease Club is a hive of activity. There are bridge clubs, as well as mahjong groups, arts and crafts classes, piano nights and fashion shows.

The 19th Hole bar makes the perfect stop after a round of golf.

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served in the Army, but didn’t make it his career. At Ease is a hive of activity. There are bridge clubs – casual and competitive – as well as mahjong groups, arts and crafts classes, piano nights, fashion shows and other scheduled events. A separate room is called the Stained Glass room because of the décor: Residents have created stained glass scenes of Florida life, on display in the room. There also are contributions by the IRCC quilting group on display in the club. A former porch has been enclosed in glass, so residents can enjoy the air conditioning while taking in the view of the landscaped swimming pool and surrounding grounds. The 19th Hole bar makes the perfect stop after a round of golf for golf stories and lies, as Boyer puts it.

More formal celebrations take place in the Colony Hall, used for balls marking annual anniversaries of military branches, as well as other occasions. Non-members can book the facility for weddings or other gatherings. Colony Hall also serves as the venue for the Cart Barn, the thespian group at the community. The group is named after the original function of the hall. In the early days it housed IRCC’s golf carts. Eventually, most residents bought their own, so the corporation had little need to keep a fleet. They put on a variety show – the Fogey Follies – each year, in addition to other performances. There’s also a fitness center, and water exercise classes available. Other outdoor activities include horseshoes, shuffleboard, and the latest addition, two bocce ball courts.

Above top: There is a private dining room called the Stained Glass room aptlynamed because of the resident-created art displayed there. Above: The IRCC quilting club has some of their work on display in the clubhouse lounge above.

Residents can check the events schedule anytime on the community’s designated TV station, produced by the IRCC audio-visual club. 59

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Above top: Watersong in Viera opened in May 2009. The social gathering space within the community is the clubhouse area, which also is made open to the community for functions. Above: There’s a living room complete with chess set and fireplace and a library happily organized by a resident retired librarian. Above right: Residents can dine in the large dining room, which evokes a ballroom feel with pillars, tray ceilings and sparkling chandeliers.

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Residents can check the events schedule anytime on the community’s designated TV station, produced by the IRCC audio-visual club. Duke Bickmore, former Marine Corps officer and current IRCC resident, helped upgrade the AV club equipment recently. “I could be in Hong Kong with my laptop, and I could update the bulletin board here,” Bickmore said. Bickmore and his wife, Judi, moved to IRCC five years ago from New York because of the sense of community they found – and the opportunity for year-round golf. They worked from home for a while and have since retired. “We really knew better than we realized,” Judi Bickmore said of the couple’s decision to purchase a home at IRCC. She participates in the residents’ activity council, and started a New York connection club. “What we didn’t realize was how involved you can be with whatever you want to do,” she said. Choosing to live in a senior community is a lifestyle that’s growing increasingly popular. Though only a small portion of over-55 households live in communities dedicated to the age group, the percentage grew from 2 percent in 2001 to 3 percent in 2007, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Residents in such communities registered the highest level of satisfaction with their homes, compared with all over-55 households. The trade group’s research shows that over-55 commu-

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Above: The 1854 Bar plays up the pub look, with wood flooring and a granite bar, a perfect spot for a drink with friends or an evening of karaoke.

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nities are attracting younger buyers – those under 60 – and an increasing number with college education. It’s easy to see why the option is growing. “We’re on a 48-acre cruise ship that never leaves port,” said Shelly Lockhart, executive director of Watersong in Viera. That’s how residents describe the all-inclusive, luxury community, she said, which includes single-family homes and villas, as well as an assisted living option. The sprawling clubhouse and

pool area offers all the pampering and activity of a vacation, without the motion sickness patch. Watersong in Viera opened in May 2009, one of 10 retirement communities operated by Charlotte, N.C.-based Senior Living Communities. The social gathering space within the community is the clubhouse area, which also is made open to the community for various functions. “The clubhouse is a big piece of their home,” said Sharon Larson, director of member services at Watersong. Residents can use the clubhouse for entertaining, or as a personal extension of their own homes. There’s a living room complete with a chess set and fireplace, for example, and a library where they can donate or borrow a book, sit and read in an armchair, or work on a puzzle in progress. Residents can dine in the large dining room, which evokes a ballroom feel with pillars, tray ceilings and sparkling chandeliers. Dining is often accompanied by live music, and sometimes dancing. Or, for a more intimate option, they can reserve a private dining room for a special event. They’ll still enjoy the same personal service.

Above: An Internet café in the clubhouse offers computers with Internet access, and even how-to classes. Residents can use the clubhouse for entertaining or as a personal extension of their own homes.

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Above and right: A central hallway in the Watersong clubhouse connects residents with various activity rooms, and dining and entertainment venues. The covered front porch offers space to sit and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

“We’re on a 48-acre cruise ship that never leaves port,” said Shelly Lockhart, executive director of Watersong in Viera. That’s how residents describe the all-inclusive, luxury community.

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Food is prepared under the supervision of executive chef James Tsamoutales, former owner of Melbourne’s World Beat Café. Tsamoutales’ training includes a Walt Disney World culinary apprenticeship. Activity rooms in the clubhouse include space for crafting, playing cards or watching movies. There’s a game room with poker tables, leather chairs and table-top shuffleboard. Many parties take on the dual function of fundraisers for various causes. Giving back is an aspect of senior living that Watersong residents readily embrace, Larson said. The 1854 ar plays up the pub look, with wood flooring and a granite bar, a perfect spot for a drink with friends or to indulge in karaoke. Across the hall, an Internet café offers computers with Internet access. An exercise center includes an indoor pool, used for free swimming or exercise classes. Fitness rooms are equipped with weight machines, as well as space for yoga, pilates and other classes. Watersong employs a full-time fitness instructor to offer classes and onsite help with training. Both of these exclusive senior developments offer programs and facilities that appeal to active retirees, and we’re proud to have these offerings in our community. n

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Story by Betsy S. Franz

n a state known as the Sunshine state, utilizing the power of the sun to provide hot water and electricity seems like an obvious solution to a costly problem. But until recently, the occasional solar panel on a rooftop was the exception rather than the norm. With concern for the environment on the rise, however, more and more people are making the choice to soak up some sun! Photo by Brooks Cadorin spaces

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Above top and above: Photovoltaic solar panels cover an entire rooftop in Cocoa Village. These solar electric panels use light from the sun to create electricity.

To learn more about solar energy, visit these websites: n U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/technologies.html

n The Florida Solar Energy Center: http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/

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“We’ve definitely seen an increase in the number of people that are choosing solar,” said Sam Cochrane, President of Russell & Sun Solar. “Even with the tough economy last year, we had a big increase in customers.” Although Cochrane believes that some of those customers were swayed by the cost savings solar can provide, he thinks that all it took to persuade others was simply a better understanding of how solar systems work. There are two types of solar systems that are utilized in homes. Solar thermal uses the radiation from the sun to create hot water, which is utilized for water heaters and pool heaters. Solar electric, also called photovoltaic or PV, uses the light from the sun to create electricity. Since both types of systems use panels to collect energy from the sun, there is a misconception that all solar works the same way. In truth, the technologies are very different. “The technology for solar water heaters has been around for decades,” Cochrane explained. “Most people probably don’t know that during and just after World War II almost every other house in Florida and California used solar hot water systems which weren’t terribly different than the systems we have today. Basically, in solar thermal, the collectors on the roof contain either water or a heat-transfer fluid, which is heated by the sun. Heated water is then held in a storage tank for later use. In our climate, the modern systems work even better than advertised. They make more and hotter water than your gas or electric ever will.” In photovoltaic, or PV systems, the solar collectors contain semiconductor material, which converts light energy into electrical energy. The energy produced by these systems, however, is DC or direct current. This current must be converted to AC power, which is the power that runs through your home. “The most economical way to use a PV system is to tie in

with the local power company in a system called “net metering,” Cochrane said. “Essentially, you earn energy credits for the power that your system produces. You can then use those credits to run the electricity for your home. If you over produce power, you can literally sell the power back to the utility company – they would be paying you for power instead of you paying them.” “As an example, say you have a system on your roof that is producing 1000 kilowatt hours a month. If your monthly average consumption is 1000 kilowatt hours, you will be credited exactly what you would pay. If you consume 1500 kilowatt hours, you would pay for the additional 500 kilowatt hours. Now the reverse scenario is that if you only use 500 kilowatt hours, you would carry a credit forward. Credits can be carried forward for one calendar year and at the end of the calendar year, the utility company pays you back, minus certain fees.” Certainly we would all love to have a home that produces its own energy or, better still, have the utility company pay us for energy that we help to produce. But the big question in most people’s mind is how much will it cost. Determining the cost savings of a solar system takes several factors into account including the number of people in a home (for hot water systems) or the size of a swimming pool (for solar pool heaters) as well as the current form of

Residential Grid Connected PV System ENERGY USE

ENERGY SOURCE ENERGY CONVERSION

ENERGY INVERSION AND CONDITIONING

ENERGY DISTRIBUTION

ELECTRIC UTILITY Above: This graphic demonstrates the flow of solar energy from the sun to your home and how it is used. Homeowners with PV systems can earn energy credits from their local utility company for the power that their solar system generates.

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Above: An EPA funded report determined that the property value of a home increases $10-$25 for every dollar that is saved in annual fuel costs. Photo by Eric Dirschka.

Fast Facts: Energy Fact: Florida’s per capita residential electricity demand is among the highest in the country, due in part to high air-conditioning use during the hot summer months and the widespread use of electricity for home heating during the winter months.1 Fact: In 2005, the average monthly residential electricity consumption for FPL customers was 1183 kilowatthours (kWh). 2 Annually, that amount of energy consumption produces 14,196 pounds of carbon dioxide. 3 Fact: Residential electricity in Florida moved from 8 cents to 10 cents and then to 12 cents a kWh in January 2006. In the first few months of 2009, the price of electricity to some consumers in Florida reached 15 cents a kWh! 4 Fact: More than 1.5 million homes and businesses in the United States have invested in solar water heating systems. During a 20-year period, one solar water heater can avoid more than 50 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. 5

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energy used (propane, natural gas or electric). Calculators on the Florida Solar Energy Center website and other sites help you to calculate your savings. Another big differential in determining cost savings is the availability of cash rebates and incentives, which change frequently. Solar contractors work diligently to keep abreast of all of the current incentives, as well as help you with the application process. You can also find out about all current solar incentive funds on the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency website at (www.dsireusa.org). One incentive that is currently available, and is slated to be available through 2016, is a Federal tax credit of 30% for solar hot water and photovoltaic systems (and other energy efficient technologies). This rebate applies to products that are installed from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2016. The rebate does not apply to solar pool heaters. The tax credit means that, whatever a system costs, the homeowner is essentially only going to have to pay 70% of that amount. “With the current Federal tax rebate, you get about a 5% return on your money when you add solar electric (PV) to a home,” said Brooks Cadorin, who runs United Solar Energy

Above: Solar hot water and solar electricity can easily be added to existing homes, providing a good option for anyone hoping to become more energy efficient. Photo by Eric Dirschka.

with his father Al. “As the cost of energy rises, the rate of return will increase. The return on solar thermal is even higher – up to 20% depending on the amount of hot water that a family uses. You can’t get that kind of return on your investment in the bank, or anywhere else right now. Not without taking a risk.” An EPA funded report also determined that the property value of a home increases $10 - $25 for every dollar that is saved in annual fuel costs. “The savings we have talked about are all pre- tax dollars, which is another incentive, plus, all solar equipment is exempt from sales tax. Solar reduces our dependence on foreign oil, reduces Co2 and sulfur dioxide emissions, increases your property value, and the solar domestic hot water system will give you hot water, even in the event of a power outage.” Jacque Wirth, Director of Sales for Solar Energy Systems of Brevard, agrees that solar hot water should be a standard feature for most homes. “It’s not a luxury, like a granite countertop or a marble floor,” Wirth said. “Hot water is a basic necessity and solar hot water typically pays for itself in one to three years. Why would anyone pay for energy to heat water when they could heat it with free energy from the sun with a system lasting up to 30 years?” “Solar hot water is a very easy thing to add to either an existing home or new construction,” Wirth added. “There is no other feature you can add to a home for that price that will save a family a third of their electric bill for that many years.” As Wirth stated, both solar hot water and solar electricity can easily be added to existing homes, providing a good option for anyone hoping to become more energy efficient. But many builders are now offering solar as options to provide energy efficient homes to a new breed of environmentally conscious consumers. “The members of Home Builders & Contractors Association of Brevard have seen a steady increase in the number of customers that are interested in building energy efficient homes,” said Franck Kaiser, Chief Executive Officer of HBCA of Brevard. “A few years ago we created a Green Building Council and joined the Florida Green Building Coalition to

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Photo by Eric Dirschka

Solar benefits

Solar electric systems (PV) have very little

on extremely overcast days, they can still produce

impact on the environment, making them one of

about 25% of their maximum output.

the cleanest power-generating technologies avail-

able. While they’re operating, PV systems produce

fossil fuels, each kilowatt of PV-produced electric-

no air pollution, hazardous waste, or noise, and

ity offsets up to 830 pounds of oxides of nitrogen,

they require no transportable fuels.

1,500 pounds of sulfur dioxide, and 217,000

The sun, unlike some other power supplies, is

a renewal resource.

Fuel for solar systems is free! Once you

recover the initial costs of a solar system through reduced or avoided energy costs (lower utility bills), your solar system will require expenditures only for maintenance.

Compared with electricity generated from

pounds of carbon dioxide, every year, according to a report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (Herig 2000).

PV is produced domestically, strengthening

our economy and reducing our trade deficit. Using PV protects us against the threats of fuel price

Solar power reduces energy imports, depen-

volatility and political instability, and it allows us to

dence on foreign oil, and energy rate and supply

produce energy within our own borders. By building

pressures.

the PV industry, we’re investing in “home-grown”

energy, which creates domestic jobs and strength-

PV systems can generate power in all types

of weather. On partly cloudy days, they turn out

ens our economy.

as much as 80% of their potential energy. Even

(Taken from the U.S. Dept of Energy website)

“The cost of energy is only going to go up. When you try to sell your property, the value of having a solar system in the future may make a tremendous difference to the resale value.” – Brooks Cadorin spaces

keep abreast of current technologies and facilitate the green certification of our members. Our National Association of Home Builders has also created a professional green building certification program.” Mark Derman, owner of Derman Homes, recently finished construction of a home utilizing solar technologies for customers in Cape Canaveral. “My customers Craig and Gail Kittleson wanted this, their final home, to be as energy efficient as possible,” Derman said. “I asked if they would be interested in solar and after discussing the options, they decided on adding a solar PV (photovoltaic) system, solar hot water and solar pool heating. As a Florida SunBilt builder, I always talk with customers to at least consider hot water heating with solar. This is the first new home I have installed solar systems on but I have added solar hot water systems in the past.” Whether it’s done for financial reasons or to help benefit the environment, adding solar to a home is a good investment. “Investing in solar is a savings plan,” Cadorin said. “You are not only saving the environment, you are saving money and you are locking in your rates for 25 years, which is how long some of these modules are guaranteed. The cost of energy is only going to go up. When you try to sell your property, the value of having a solar system in the future may make a tremendous difference to the resale value.” n

Above: Solar inverter units. Photo by Brooks Cadorin

References: 1 From EIA - US Energy Information Administration: http://tonto.eia.doe. gov/state/state_energy_profiles.cfm?sid=FL 2 FPL website http://www.fpl.com/about/profile/fpl_facts.shtml#usage 3 EPA Calculator http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-and-you/howclean.html 4 Florida Solar Energy Center: http://tinyurl.com/y9q7eo9 5 Fact from U.S. Dept of Energy Website: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/ consumer/tips/water_heating.html

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New AC technology saves money and energy

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Story by Jimi Gonzalez Photography by Dave Potter

s Floridians, we are dependent on the air conditioning systems in our homes. They work almost all year long keeping our homes comfortable through the process of cooling and de-humidifying. They also represent about 58 percent of the summer electricity bills that can really pinch our pocketbooks. An air conditioning system is never taken for granted, but is often underestimated in its complexity and ability. A major sub-discipline of mechanical engineering, air conditioning is the technology of indoor environmental comfort. It has experienced major developments since its invention a little more than 100 years ago, and there have been dramatic improvements in efficiency over the last 10 years due to government regulations, technological advances, and interest in energy conservation. Updating your home air conditioner is a worthwhile investment; a modern and efficient system can reward you with a dramatic savings on your electric bill. The efficiency of a unit is measured by its SEER rating, which is determined by dividing the cooling output during normal annual usage by its total energy consumption. The more efficient the air conditioning equipment is, the higher the SEER rating, since less electricity is needed to cool your home. Basically, you can think of the SEER rating as being similar to a miles-per-gallon rating for automobiles. 75

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What’s the right size? Many times we think that bigger is better, but in the case of an air conditioning unit, that isn’t always the case. Steve Packard of Dial Plumbing and Air Conditioning explains that, “A unit that is sized too large for your home will cool too quickly to properly de-humidify your home.” When it’s time for a new system, your air conditioning contractor should perform a heating and cooling load calculation,

also referred to as a “Manual J.” A technician will enter data about your home into specialized software that will determine the correctly sized air conditioning unit. Some of the specifics that are included in the calculation are the square footage, the direction the house faces, the type of windows installed, the type and amount of insulation in the home, the roof surface color, and the building materials used.

When deciding on a new unit, the best approach is to purchase the highest SEER rating you can afford. Your air conditioning contractor can provide a payback analysis to help determine how long it will take for you to re-coup your investment in a new unit through lower electricity bills.

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Since January 2006, all new air conditioning units manufactured and sold in the United States must have a minimum SEER rating of 13. There are older systems with SEER ratings of 9 or 10 still used in homes, but as they fail, they will be required to be replaced by more efficient units. The savings are substantial. According to Florida Power and Light, the annual cooling cost to run a four-ton air conditioning unit produced in the 1990s with a 10 SEER rating is $1,610. If replaced with a new 15 SEER system, the annual cost drops to $1,090, a savings of $520 per year. Air conditioning systems are available with SEER ratings up to the low 20s, but these units are larger in size and because they contain additional steel, aluminum and copper, and they are more costly to manufacture, transport and install. When deciding on a new unit, the best approach is to purchase the highest SEER rating you can afford. Your air conditioning contractor can provide a payback analysis to help determine how long it will take for you to re-coup your investment in a new unit through lower electricity bills. Just like you wouldn’t leave a water faucet running when you aren’t home, it doesn’t make sense to continually run your air conditioning. Digital thermostats have been available for some time, and most people are familiar with their timer functionality, but new units feature vacation settings, intuitive controls,

Left: Digital thermostats have been available for some time, and most people are familiar with their timer functionality, but new units feature vacation settings, intuitive controls, and full color touch screens.

and full color touch screens. Thermostats can also be controlled remotely. Using a secure webpage you can change the temperature of your home in the event of unplanned changes to your day such as working late or unexpected house guests. Out-of-state owners can also monitor the temperature and humidity levels of their Florida home while they are away for part of the year. There are also ways to get your thermostat off the wall and into your hands. Honeywell’s Portable Comfort Control is a handheld unit that communicates wirelessly to your thermostat. Now, rather than basing your home’s temperature on

SEER Savings Comparison*

Cooling Efficiency in SEER

A/C system Approximate square footage (tons)

9 10 (avg. 1980s) (avg. 1990s) 11 12 $900.00

$810.00

$730.00

13 (new units min.)

$620.00

$580.00

$540.00

$500.00

$470.00

$450.00

$420.00

900-1,200

$670.00

1,200-1,500

2.5

$1,120.00

$1,010.00

$920.00

$840.00

$780.00

$720.00

$670.00

$630.00

$590.00

$560.00

$530.00

1,500-1,800

$1,340.00

$1,210.00

$1,100.00

$1,010.00

$930.00

$860.00

$810.00

$760.00

$710.00

$670.00

$640.00

1,801-2,100

3.5

$1,570.00

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$1,090.00

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$940.00

$880.00

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Example: Annual cooling cost to run a 3-ton unit produced in the 1990s with a 10 SEER will be $1,210.

If replaced with a new 15 SEER system, the costs drops to $810 – a savings of $400 per year. Costs based on 2,800 annual cooling hours and 12 cents per kWh (average for South Florida.) *Data based on original annual cooling cost comparison by FPL.

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Above: A zoned system combined with a digital thermostat gives you the ability to customize your comfort and only turn on your air conditioning where and when you need it.

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the wall mounted thermostat, the internal thermometer of the Portable Comfort Control unit communicates the temperature of the room where it is located. Depending on your equipment, your thermostat controls can also be integrated with your universal remotes or whole house control system, giving you the ability to make temperature adjustments from the comfort of your bed or while sitting on the couch. Another way to increase the efficiency of an air conditioning system is to add zoning controls. Just like you don’t have a single light switch to control your entire home; it doesn’t make sense for a single air conditioning unit to cool all of your square footage at once. John McMillan of Hearth & Home in Melbourne points out that a zoned system “…can save more money in the long term than upgrading to a high efficiency unit.” Zoning effectively turns a single air conditioning system into many smaller ones through changes to the duct work and installation of controlled dampers, devices used to regulate air flow. Depending on your lifestyle and the square footage of your home, you may have rooms or areas of the home that are not constantly occupied. For example, you may have a home office that is only used during the day. With a traditional single zone system,

Variable Speed Units For the longest time, air conditioning units operated at a single speed, meaning they were either “on” or “off”. New variable speed units improve efficiency and dehumidification by allowing the air conditioning to run at lower speeds for normal cooling or at higher speeds when you need to cool a space quickly. This allows the system to deliver a steady stream of cool air into your home throughout the day rather than continually cycling on and off. Craig Marcelle of Comfort Experts explains. “A variable speed system is capable of removing 20 to 40 percent more humidity than a typical single speed system. Because the air conditioner runs at slower speeds for a longer time, more air is moved through the unit, which means that more moisture is removed from the air.”

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Cool cash-back There are a couple of different rebate programs providing incentives to homeowners to invest in efficient air conditioning systems. The biggest is from the government as a sort of “Cash for Clunkers” for air conditioners. n For approved units installed in 2009 and 2010, the government is offering a tax rebate of 30% (up to $1,500) towards the price of the equipment and its installation in your primary residence. It is important to note that this incentive is only scheduled to last until December 31st, 2010. n Additionally, to maintain control of the energy demands during the peak times of the summer, FPL is offering more than 50 levels of rebates ranging from $125 to $1,930 depending on the unit’s size and SEER rating. For more information on either program, contact your air conditioning contractor.

energy is being wasted to cool this home office at night while you are sleeping. A zoned system combined with a digital thermostat gives you the ability to customize your comfort and only turn on your air conditioning where and when you need it. Additionally, a zoned system can provide faster cooling of critical areas in your home. For example, if you are hosting a dinner party, it’s a good idea to cool the common areas about 10 degrees below your standard temperature before your guests arrive. With a properly zoned system, the dampers in all rooms except the common areas will be closed, allowing the air that would have been sent throughout the house to be re-circulated, re-cooled and distributed to exactly where you need it the most. Every component in an air conditioning system is an important piece that must be properly designed, installed and maintained. Even parts you don’t see, like the ductwork in the attic, must be sized correctly. Craig Drabyk of Merritt Island

Air & Heat comments that, “If you install a large and efficient unit but the duct work isn’t big enough to support it; you have the equivalent of blowing air through a coffee stir straw.” Your air conditioning is one of the most important systems in your home. If you don’t agree, then you haven’t had your unit fail in the middle of a Florida summer. You can live a few days in July without your oven, but if your air conditioner breaks you are staying with family or checking into a hotel. A skilled contractor and an understanding of energy efficient options will keep both your home and your utility bills comfortable for years to come. n Jimi Gonzalez is the vice president of sales and marketing for Island Systems and Design in Rockledge. He also recently became a LEED AP. Contact him at 638-9966.

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We Match Internet Prices 4 N. Cocoa Blvd. US1 â&#x20AC;˘ 321.636.3345 www.brevardlighting.com

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358056

Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm; Sat. 9am-4pm

business spotlight

Illumination Solutions Brevard Lighting offers new fixtures, restoration services and 40+ years of expertise Story by Maria Sonnenberg • Photography by Dave Potter

umans crave light, which is per- haps the reason lamps play such an important part in our lives. “Lamps are like jewelry for the home,” says Barry Stanton, president of Brevard Lighting. We remember the family dinners under Grandma’s old-fashioned chandelier and relish the moments we spend reading to our children as the glow from a favorite table lamp envelops us in its warmth. “There’s a lot of sentimental value on lamps,” adds Stanton. Stanton should know, for as part of his store’s services, Brevard Lighting specializes in lamp repair. He estimates his store repairs about 200 lamps a year. The lamps could be magnificent chandeliers or table lamps with a modest pedigree, but in all cases, their owners have a significant emotional investment in them. “There are a lot of people who have lamps that they grew up with or that belonged to Mom or to Grandma,” says Stanton. “These lamps may or may not have great monetary value, but to their owners, they are priceless. When we undertake a repair job, we have to treat the lamp with special care; because these heirlooms are irreplaceable.” spaces

The labor-intensive and often frustrating aspects of lamp repair render it more of a service than moneymaker. “That’s why so many showrooms don’t do it,” says Stanton. “We’re one of the few that still do lamp repair. It can get very involved. These lamps can be very old. They don’t want to come apart and they often don’t make the parts for them anymore.” Lamp restoration requires plenty of both ability and flexibility. “We are able to get a lot of the parts, but, that said, we have to use a lot of ingenuity to make it work,” says Stanton. Lamp repair is only a small part of Stanton’s family-run business, a store that has lit the way for customers since 1963, the year when Barry’s father, Jim, first turned the light on in the showroom. Stanton takes lamp shades very seriously. His store has one of the largest selections of shades in the county and his staff is also adept at restoring old shades. “There’s a real art to sizing a shade to fit the décor and the scale,” says Stanton. “We encourage people to bring their

lamps in with them so we can properly fit the shade to the lamp. If you do it right, everybody loves it.” Store patriarch Jim Stanton, now 88, still visits Brevard Lighting with wife Ruth, sometimes to undertake a restoration job, and others just to see how things are going. “They still come in to give me a hard time,” jokes Barry. Barry grew up in the business. “My brother and I were sweeping floors here when we were 11 or 12,” he says. Barry’s son, Josh, also gravitated towards the industry, in his own terms. “He was literally born into the lighting business,” says Barry. “He was helping to hang fixtures at age eight. He’s 29 now and an electrical contractor and master electrician who owns Stanton Electric.” Though lighting dominates the showroom, Brevard Lighting also carries an extensive selection of Howard Miller clocks, as well as decorating accessories and artwork. The store’s unique selection of lighting makes it a favorite hangout for anyone involved in interior design. “We deal with every major designer and general

Above top: Store patriarch Jim Stanton, now 88, still visits Brevard Lighting sometimes to undertake a restoration job, and sometimes just to check up on things. Today, his son Barry (above left) runs Brevard Lighting, a business he literally grew up in.

“These lamps may or may not have great monetary value, but to their owners, they are priceless. When we undertake a repair job, we have to treat the lamp with special care; because these heirlooms are irreplaceable.” – barry Stanton 85

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Above: Lacey chandelier by Kichler and dangling crystal chandelier, at right, both available through Brevard Lighting.

Lamp repair is only a small part of Stantonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family-run business. The store carries numerous brands of lighting and is a primary destination for customers seeking value and service.

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contractor in Brevard County,” says Barry. Although Brevard Lighting has known its share of “celebrity” lights, such as the two $20,000 Schonbek crystal chandeliers Stanton delivered to customers in Australia and the Dominican Republic, the store is a primary destination for customers seeking value and service. “We’re very reasonable,” says Stanton. “For $300, you can get a beautiful and unique chandelier here. The people we deal with are generally very conscious of their homes and want something nice that is affordable.” Stock at the store reflects current customer demand. “People are simplifying their lives and want the lighter and more minimalist designs,” says Stanton. “We’re shedding the Tuscan heaviness for lighter colors and finishes. Being in the business for almost half a century translates into a customer base that encompasses generations. “We’re now dealing with the kids and grandkids of our original customers,” says Barry. Brevard Lighting is located at 4 N. Cocoa Blvd, aka U.S. 1, in Cocoa. For more information, call 636-3345 or visit www.brevardlighting.com. n

Above: Barry stands in the showroom where his father Jim first turned on the light in 1963. The store’s wide selection makes it a desirable destination for homeowners as well as local designers shopping for clients. Below: Illumination solutions for every taste and style.

Being in the business for almost half a century translates into a customer base that encompasses generations. “We’re now dealing with the kids and grandkids of our original customers,” says Barry.

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calendar

A look ahead: Cultural, design and entertainment events on the Space Coast Entertainment MARCH 6

Brevard Symphony Orchestra Symphonic Tributes

four decades of recording and touring, the band has sold in excess of 70 million albums worldwide and has been awarded an astonishing 14 platinum and gold discs. Their roster of hits includes: “Nights In White Satin,” “Ride My See Saw,” “The Story In Your Eyes,” “Isn’t Life Strange,” “Question,” and “I’m Just A Singer (In A Rock And Roll Band),” to name a few. The Moody Blues’ albums and singles, have generated sold-out tours on a consistent basis over the course of several decades, making them one of the top-grossing album and touring bands in existence. Show begins at 7 p.m. For tickets and information call 242-2219 or visit www.kingcenter.com.

The Brevard Symphony Orchestra offers a Symphonic Tribute to several musical giants, from JS Bach to John Lennon. The late American composer Lukas Foss began composing his Night Music the morning after John Lennon was killed. Saint-Saens’s brilliant 2nd Piano Concerto features an opening movement that is a loving tribute to the keyboard music of JS Bach. The concert concludes with Beethoven’s magnificent Seventh Symphony. PerformancMARCH 12 -14 es are at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the King Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and information call 242-2219 or visit STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, utterly unique and appeals to www.kingcenter.com. audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an MARCH 9 armful of awards and rave reviews; and has appeared on numerous national televiThe legendary Moody Blues are coming to sion shows. The eight-member troupe uses the King Center. With a legacy spanning everything but conventional percussion

STOMP

Moody Blues in concert

Above: The Sauce Boss coming soon to The King Center-see calendar listing for details.

instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Show begins at 8 p.m. on Friday, 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday. For tickets and information call 242-2219 or visit www.kingcenter.com.

MARCH 14

Space Coast Jazz Society Tribute Concert A jazz tribute concert to Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald is planned for 2 p.m. on March 14. The concert will feature music by JB Scott’s Swingin’ Allstars and will be held at the Courtyard by Marriott in Cocoa Beach. All tickets are $25. Seating is limited so tickets should be purchased in advance. Ticket proceeds will benefit the scholarship fund. For tickets and details call Pat Aiken at 777-3494.

MARCH 27

Sauce Boss

Above: JB Scott’s Swingin’ Allstars will perform in a jazz tribute concert on March 14th. See calendar listing for details. spaces 88

Bill Wharton (Sauce Boss) has cooked gumbo on stage for over 164,000 audience members. He mixes his own spicy original music – Florida Slide Guitar Blues – and

Will your family be able to maintain their standard of living if something happened to you? For the if in life® MetLife® offers affordable 10-year level term life insurance rates. Male Elite Plus Non-Smoker* Above: Charlie Bertini on the trumpet. The Space Coast Jazz Society presents the Charlie Bertini Trio in concert on April 11. See details page 90.

adds his famous Liquid Summer hot sauce right into every night’s cooking demonstration of his own gumbo recipe. It’s a multi-sensory soul shouting picnic of rock and roll brotherhood. And at the end of the night, everybody eats. Haven’t heard him play? You’ll never forget him once you do. The Sauce Boss offers up sustenance and redemption in the form of music, food, and above all, the love of the brotherhood of man. Cooking begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Studio Theater. For tickets and information call 242-2219 or visit www.kingcenter.com.

MARCH 28

Chocolate Festival Sample Brevard’s best chocolate at the Eau Gallie Civic Center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 28. The Zonta Club of Melbourne sponsors this tempting event. Call 432-7095, or 693-4557 or visit us online for more details www.zontaspacecoast.org. The event costs $20 per person.

March 28, 31, April 7, 11, 14

Florida Tech Tournées French Film Festival The festival showings will begin at 7 p.m. in the Gleason Performing Arts Center. There is no charge to attend. For more information call 674-8073.

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April 10

Brevard Symphony Orchestra Postcards from America Our 56th season concludes with a sonic salute to the USA – Postcards from America – featuring Ferde Grofe’s descriptive virtuo showpiece Grand Canyon Suite. Acclaimed cellist Julie Albers returns to the BSO stage for a performance of Dvorak’s groundbreaking Cello Concerto, composed in America following the premiere of his New World Symphony. The program opens with

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the Florida Premiere of a colorful new concert work by composer Gregory Smith. The performance will begin at 8 p.m. at the King Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and information call 242-2219 or visit www.kingcenter.com.

APRIL 11

Jazz Concert The Space Coast Jazz Society presents The Charlie Bertini Trio in concert. Bertini on trumpet and Eddie Metz Jr. on drums. Jeff Phillips on piano and pedal base. The performance starts at 2p.m. at the Cocoa Beach Country Club. Members $7, nonmembers $10, Students free. Tickets will be available at the door. Visit www.spacecoastjazzsociety. com for more details.

APRIL 11

Chita Rivera An evening of music with two-time Tony Award winner Chita Rivera performing songs from her legendary Broadway career in her own concert Chita Rivera: My Broadway. Ms. Rivera will be accompanied by an 11piece orchestra and will perform selections

dream create enjoy

from her most celebrated musicals, including numbers from West Side Story “America,” Sweet Charity “Where Am I Going?,” and “Big Spender,” and Chicago “All That Jazz” and “Nowadays.” Show begins at 3 p.m. For tickets and information call 242-2219 or visit www.kingcenter.com.

Art Exhibitions MARCH 6 & 7

Spring Arts and Crafts Fair Stroll the streets of downtown Cocoa Village and view some amazing pieces by local crafters and artists and visit the many unique village shops. The fair is open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Call the Historic Cocoa Village Association for more information at 631-9075.

MARCH 26

Miniatures Art Show Art Gallery of Viera presents the opening reception for a Miniatures Art Show on March 26 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Come and view all the unique and creative miniature artwork done by local artists along with

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Above: Morning Reflections, by Clare Pearson Zipperly will be on display during the Colorful Musings exhibit at Fifth Avenue Art Gallery. See calendar listing for details.

Where you’ll find us! Pick up your complimentary copy of Spaces Magazine at many fine establishments throughout Brevard County, including: Above: Esther Ellison of Melbourne browses a selection of art by Michael Kuseske during the Melbourne Art Festival last year. Photo by Craig Bailey.

great entertainment and fun. Art Gallery of Viera is located at the Home Center, 5410 Murrell Road in Viera. For more information call the Gallery at 890-1415.

THRU MARCH 29

Painting by Discovery Exhibition The Fifth Avenue Art Gallery invites you to view Painting by Discovery, an exhibition by Donne Bitner of Orlando. The collection features mixed media works of acrylic, pastel and graphite. “Although subject matter varies, my intent is to follow the mark - to layer, strip away and to find the hidden meaning of a piece.” Works begin when Bitner layers thin washes of acrylic, watercolor and gesso on paper, canvas, or wood. Initially there is no definite image in mind. Oil pastel, charcoal, and graphite add texture and line to the surface. Interesting shapes come from stamps, stencils, textured paper, and wood blocks. This is painting by discovery and will be exhibited in the Fifth Avenue Art gallery throughout the month of March. For more details call the gallery at 259-8261 or visit us online at www.fifthavenueartgallery.com.

Baytree National Golf Links Brevard Art Museum Cocoa Beach Country Club Duran Golf Club Eau Gallie Yacht Club Economic Development Commission Essentials Spa, Melbourne & Viera Health-First Pro-Health Fitness Center (Merritt Island, Viera, Melbourne & Palm Bay) Imperial Spa King Center for the Performing Arts Kiwi Tennis Club La Bella Spa Melbourne International Airport Paradise Ford Suntree Country Club YMCA Suntree Wuesthoff Health System – Rockledge & Melbourne Or, visit any of the advertisers in our current issue!

MARCH 30

Colorful Musings Exhibition Colorful Musings is the featured exhibit in April of Clare Pearson Zipperly’s artwork at the Fifth Avenue Art Gallery in Melbourne. Zipperly’s paintings engage and invite viewers to experience them personally. Described as a symphony of dynamic color, Clare’s musings have the richness of oils, but are done in watercolor. Mostly narrative in nature, her artwork incorporates the elements that she loves and is known for: color, vibrancy and humor. Join us at the opening reception on the First Friday Artwalk oN April 2, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. Visit Clare and enjoy her artwork while enjoying light refreshments with wine. The reception is free and open to the public. The show runs through April 30. For more details call the gallery at 259-8261 or visit us online at www.fifthavenueartgallery.com.

View the current Spaces issue online at www.spacesonline.com

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als. Pre-registration required. Check class times and register online at www.louannweeks.com or call for details 794-8157.

MARCH 25 – APRIL 23

Foundations of Modern Art

APRIL 2-4

APRIL 24-25

The Art of Sand

Melbourne Art Festival

This exhibition invites nine of the world’s most renowned sand sculptors to Florida’s Space Coast to create a series of unique and enormous masterpieces out of 700 tons of white sand. Every artist will create a spectacular sculpture, each depicting a different art form. When finished they will have transformed the sand into a park of breathtaking sculptures, some reaching as high as 15 feet. For details visit www.artofsandus.com.

The Melbourne Art Festival is a nationally recognized event held each year on the fourth full weekend in April in historic downtown Melbourne, Florida. Admission is free. For details visit www.melbournearts.org.

Through April 11

Navel Gazing: Fresh-Squeezed Visions of Florida Sixteen artists were selected for the Brevard Art Museum’s national juried exhibition Navel Gazing: Fresh-squeezed Visions of Florida. Eight Florida artists and eight artists from outside the state were selected to reconstitute existing ideas or make freshsqueezed interpretations of Florida. The exhibition is sponsored in part through a $25,000 award for the Culture Builds Florida grant by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts. For details contact the Brevard Art Museum at 242-0737 or visit brevardartmuseum.org. spaces

APRIL 30

Floral and Fabric Art Show Just in time for Mother’s Day Art Gallery of Viera presents a Floral and Fabric Art Show. Fabric artworks and floral arrangements are just a few of the innovative and beautiful creations you will get to experience. The opening reception will be held April 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. For more information, call the gallery at 890-1415.

Art Classes MARCH 13, 17, 20 & 24 APRIL 10,14 17 & 21

Mosaic Backsplashes This mosaic class will teach you how to make a mosaic backsplash for your own kitchen – from beginning with the right materials, through the final stage of installation. Classes will be held at the Art Gallery of Viera. Cost: $70 for class, $30 for materi-

Brevard Art Museum and Florida Tech are collaborating on a class entitled Foundations of Modern Art. This class features a weekly art history lecture class at FIT along with weekly “hands-on” studio class at Brevard Art Museum School. The next unit is, From Dada to Pop Art, and it runs from March 25 to April 23. Students create a weekly painting or collage based on the lecture by FIT instructor Lars Jones. The studio component is taught by a professional artist/instructor from our community: Frits van Eeden, Nancy Dillen and Nellie Brannan. You can register on line at www. brevardartmuseum.org or call 254-7782 for more information and to register.

Lectures MARCH 18

Friends of Textiles Lecture Series Florida Tech presents, Cosmology and East Asian Textile Design, as part of their lecture series. The lecture is presented by Lee Talbot, Ph.D, and will begin at 7 p.m. It will be held in the Denius Student Center, Hartley Room. There is a $10 fee to attend. For more information call 674-8313.

March 23

Writing Women Back into History A Women’s History Month Event at Florida Tech. Keynote speaker: author Monica Wofford will speak from 11 a.m. until 2:15 p.m. Cost for luncheon is $10. For information call 674-7642.

Want your upcoming home, cultural or entertainment listing in our calendar? E-mail Janet McCluskey at jmccluskey@floridatoday. com or call 242-3707.

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Automotive

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321-610-9901

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See our display ad on page 43

La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery

Metlife.com

321-725-5461 / 321-639-3010

See our display ad on page 89

Entertainment The King Center for the Performing Arts 321-242-2219 kingcenter.com See our display ad on page 7

lazboy.com/brevard See our display ad on page 3

Kitchen and Bath Design

Luxe Home Interiors

Corinthian Kitchen & Bath

321-727-8333

321-433-0000

welcometoluxe.com

corinthiankitchen.com

Food & Wine

See our display ad on page 90

Downtown Produce

Home Products and Services

See our display ad on page 9

321-452-3270

Specialty Gift Shops Sue’s Hallmark 321- 779-1901 See our display ad on page 81 Travel Destination Care Free

Lighting

239-745-0110/305-389-8998

Brevard Lighting

Destinationcare-free.com

dialplumbing.com

321-636-3345

See our display ad on page 69

See our display ad on page 80

brevardlighting.com

Home Decor

Home Solution Specialists

See our display ad on page 83

Technology

Island Paint & Decorating Center

321-632-4530

House of Lights

Island Systems & Design

321-452-8981

davidfoleyinc.com

321-723-8921

321-638-9966

islandpaintanddecorating.com

Home Remodeling and Additions

houseoflightsfl.com

islandsys.net

See our display ad on page 40

“Simple changes make a world of difference”

See our display ad on page 39

See our display ad on page 40

Market 321-308-0275 Wholesale 321-254-4048 jill.aker@downtownproduce.com See our display ad on page 17

Dial Plumbing & Air Conditioning 321-632-2662

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