CUE 2016 Home Resource Guide

CUE ’s 2016

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE A

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Make a splash Water features from fountains to ponds

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Hitting Lusterphile the green

All about hair A how-to guide stroke micropigfor lawn care, mentation plus gardening in a raised bed Cover photos by Laura Steffan

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Cover design by Dora Sison

What to look for when buying a home

Keys to the castle

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Bright ideas

The ins and outs of lighting — indoors and out

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BENEATH YOUR FEET

Flooring options in hardwood, laminates, carpeting and more

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COLOR ME

Tips for choosing the right paint for the job, plus mood and color

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(Across from Armstrong Park)

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FREE PARKING 504-529-4465

Kitchenware & Bath Accessories Located on 2nd Floor of Mary’s Ace Hardware 08 CUE’S HOME RESOURCE GUIDE

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FROM HOUSE TO HOME

BY LEE CUTRONE

OVER THE YEARS, HOLLYWOOD HAS COMICALLY MINED THE HIDDEN COSTS THAT ACCOMPANY HOME BUILDING AND RENOVATION, from 1948’s Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House to 1986’s The Money Pit. Dream homes don’t have to become night-

mares, however. With some basic knowledge about what to look for when buying a house (especially when renovating), many pitfalls can be avoided.

Contractor Nick Castjohn, owner of Kenner-based Renovate Inc., second

vice president of the Louisiana Home Builders Association and a member of the Residential Committee of the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, recommends potential buyers follow these steps before purchasing a home:

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A PROFESSIONAL BUILDING INSPECTOR has a checklist of items to look and can alert a prospective homebuyer to problems ranging from water leaks to subsidence.

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GET A TERMITE INSPECTION

A pest control professional can conduct the inspection, which includes searching for termite trails and may detect evidence of old termite damage. Castjohn says some inspectors rarely investigate inside the walls, where termite damage or live termites may be present.

HAVE A VIDEO INSPECTION OF UNDERGROUND PIPES 3

In homes built before the 1960s, check for GALVANIZED PIPES, which likely will have to be replaced.

HAVE THE HOUSE INSPECTED PROFESSIONALLY

A home inspection is a standard course of action when considering buying any house. A professional home inspector investigates a checklist of basics from making sure appliances function properly to determining whether a house is subsiding and needs to be leveled. The inspector also looks for cracks, rotting wood, roof and water leaks and inspects attic spaces and underneath the house if the foundation is raised.

A basic home inspection, however, doesn’t reveal what’s going on inside walls or slabs, Castjohn says, nor does it determine the cause of a defect. The advantage of having a home inspected is that the seller is responsible for existing flaws noted in the inspection report. If there is no inspection, the purchaser could be stuck with repair or replacement costs.

Buyers purchasing a newly constructed home should note that the builder is responsible for following applicable building codes and is accountable to code enforcement officials throughout the building process.

What to look for — & look out for — when buying a house to renovate

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This type of inspection isn’t yet the norm among prospective home buyers, Castjohn says, but “it’s a relatively cheap insurance” against plumbing problems that could prove costly later.

A plumber inserts a video camera into underground sewerage pipes and inspects them thoroughly to make sure there are no breaks, cracks or leaks.

KNOW WHEN YOU NEED HELP

Do-it-yourselfers don’t have to hire a contractor to renovate their own home. But if help is hired, a homeowner must use a registered contractor for projects costing $7,500-$75,000. A licensed contractor is required for jobs costing more than $75,000.

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TAKE A CLOSE LOOK: Castjohn suggests homebuyers consider the following features when buying a home or determining whether renovations and upgrades are worth the money: Floors — You may be able to refurbish wood floors instead of replacing them, depending on their age and condition. A sign that floors are not salvageable: “When you start to see nails, you may have to look at replacing floors — and that can get expensive,” Castjohn says.

Windows — Look for rotting wood around window sills and check for condensation inside panes of glass in insulated windows, which indicates the weather seal is broken. Castjohn says, “Windows that aren’t energy efficient are a huge source of heating and cooling loss.”

Subsidence — In New Orleans, subsidence (or the ground sinking) is a common problem. To determine whether a house needs to be leveled, a home inspector, contractor or leveling company will look for cracks in key places such as walls above doors and windows. Doors and windows that won’t open or close are another sign of settling.

HVAC System — The heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system is important not only to a family’s budget but also its comfort.

Castjohn advises researching the age of the system that comes with the house and making sure the HVAC unit is the proper size for the space. Under- and oversized units can affect energy efficiency and make it difficult to control dampness and maintain air quality in the house.

Insulation — Have an inspector make sure that insulation in attics and underneath houses is doing its job. Many older homes don’t have insulation and function without it. In newer homes, however, the insulation must be considered when determining the proper size of HVAC system needed to avoid moisture problems.

Moisture — Finding the source of a leak is a priority, Castjohn says, especially when signs of moisture are evident (watch out for water PAGE 13

Check window sills, doors and other places susceptible to moisture for ROTTING OR SOFT WOOD.

REFINISHING WOOD FLOORS not only can save money, but retaining original components of the house also can be valuable.

POINTERS FROM THE PROS Three local realtors/renovators offer their TOP RENOVATING ADVICE

WHEN LOOKING FOR A HOUSE TO RENOVATE, Realtor Ricky Lemann of Keller Williams Realty says to choose one with good bones that’s in fairly good condition.

“In order to procure a house at a good price, I look for what they call ‘the right things wrong,’” says Lemann, who has completed eight renovations. Cosmetic things like outdated countertops, carpeting, appliances, paint colors and landscaping can be changed easily and can make a huge difference in the outcome for the investment, he says. Making cosmetic improvements rather than taking on major mechanical overhauls in plumbing and wiring, for example, has multiple advantages for first-time renovators: It doesn’t require gutting the property, it doesn’t require a lot of cash at once and homeowners can live in the house during renovations.

“You don’t have to do it all at once,” Lemann says. “You can get your foot in the door and chip away at it bit by bit.”

“IF YOU’RE DOING IT FOR YOURSELF (to occupy) for five years or more, do what you want,” says Latter & Blum Realtor John Schaff, whose renovation specialty is condo conversions.

For those renovating in order to sell a property, he advises working with a professional Realtor who knows which amenities buyers are seeking. “Research design trends and make sure it appeals to the masses,” he says.

“MAKE SURE THE HISTORICAL FEATURES OF THE HOUSE ARE STILL INTACT,” says Michael Zarou, a Realtor with Latter & Blum, who has renovated multiple historic properties. “You can recreate those features, but it’s Ricky Lemann more expensive.” advises renovators If you’re renovating for yourself, to ‘LOOK FOR THE design decisions can be based RIGHT THINGS WRONG,’ on personal taste, he says, but problems that can be if you’re renovating a house solved cosmetically to flip it, original architectural instead of taking features are a major selling point. on structural — LEE CUTRONE changes.

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stains that have been painted over). Mold is common, but there shouldn’t be more inside the house than outside. If there is an area of mold growth larger than 6 square feet, Louisiana law mandates a licensed mold remediator be used.

Gas — Homes with gas should have a carbon monoxide detector to warn residents of leaks, which can be deadly.

Plumbing — Check the plumbing fixtures throughout the house to make sure they work easily and don’t leak. Also investigate the type of pipes used in the house. If the pipes are galvanized (common in homes built before the 1960s), Castjohn recommends you have them replaced. Galvanized pipes no longer are installed in homes because they are susceptible to corrosion and can release lead into the water that passes through the pipes.

Above all, Castjohn says, know what you are getting into when it comes to buying and/ or renovating a house. Consult a contractor who is licensed and insured so all improvements will made in accordance with current building requirements. “If you are going to do a substantial renovation that costs (materials and labor) 50 percent of the appraised value of the house [materials and labor], the entire structure has to be brought to code.”

MOLD AND CONDENSATION inside the house can indicate a leak or insulation/ moisture problems.

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LIGHT

TOUCH Lighting fixtures can define the design of a space or disappear into the background while lighting up other features.

CHANDELIERS — “Chandeliers are no longer confined to dining rooms,” Abboud says. “They’re seen everywhere from entryways to great rooms.”

One of the newest trends she has observed is using combinations of different but complimentary chandelier designs in open-concept floor plans.

Shea Bowers, a client services representative at Ferguson Bath Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, says that in New Orleans, where historic architecture is abundant, traditional styles such as crystal chandeliers are popular. Chandeliers with natural elements of wood, twigs, shells and basket weaves are a trend as well, she says.

LAMPS — These portable furnishings are an easy and affordable way to change how a room looks and add a personal expression to a space. They can provide ambient or task lighting or both and change the mood of a room. “People look good in lamp light,” Abboud says, “and [lamps] make spaces warm and inviting.”

Michael Ber, co-owner of Lighting Inc., says his customers have moved away from traditional styles such as brass candlesticks and ginger jar bases toward lamps that capture contemporary design trends such as mixed metals and glass.

BY LEE CUTRONE LIGHTING IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF EVERY HOME, allowing us to function in our living spaces around the clock. It’s also an integral component of a home’s aesthetics and can provide design solutions (for instance, making a space seem larger or more cozy). Whether renovating, building a new home or simply lighting a space to serve a need or aesthetic, here are some basics to make the task easier.

There are three basic types of lighting: ambient, task and accent. Ambient light is the overall light in a room and commonly is provided by ceiling fixtures such as recessed cans, a chandelier or track lighting. Task lighting is used for specific activities and includes lights under kitchen cabinets or at a desk. Accent lighting creates visual interest and includes lights to highlight a piece of art as well as fixtures used to spotlight columns across the front of a house.

“All three types can have a decorative element,” says Adele Abboud, a representative at Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights, which offers complimentary design services. “The best rooms have all three.

They have different layers of light and they take advantage of natural light.”

Fewer rules apply when choosing interior light fixtures today than in the past, but some basic info and a few tips can help guide your choices.

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TOP: A hand-forged, eight-bulb swirl-design chandelier from Lighting Inc. RIGHT: Amber ribbed glass lamp with silver hardware and a ceramic polka-dot lamp, both from fur•nish.

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CEILING FIXTURES — The two main types of ceiling fixtures are flush, which sits against the ceiling, and semi-flush, which hangs slightly away from the ceiling on a short stem.

Bowers says ceiling fixtures often are overlooked as design considerations because they commonly are viewed as more functional than stylish.

TRACK LIGHTING — This versatile option is an alternative to recessed cans for providing overall ambient lighting in a space that isn’t undergoing renovation. “They’re easily connected directly to the ceiling and can be adjusted to fit the space,” Abboud says. Track lighting provides a contemporary look. Rail lighting is similar but can have pendants or spotlights hanging from it.

RECESSED CANS — These fixtures, which are placed within a ceiling, are most easily installed during building or renovation, but sometimes can be added later. Advantages include a clean, discreet appearance and evenly spaced lighting. “They are the best type of lighting you can put in your house,” Bowers says. “They put out a lot of light.”

Ber says a new development is cans that are smaller and even less obtrusive but still provide plenty of light.

SCONCES — They can be used in a variety of places — flanking a fireplace, illuminating a work of art, around a vanity mirror and at the head of a bed, as well as in hallways, living rooms, dining rooms and elsewhere — and can be wired inside or outside a wall. When used to light a vanity mirror, it’s recommended sconces be placed at eye level on either side (instead of above the mirror, which can cast unflattering shadows on the face). Because sconces should be placed at eye level, they’re one of the first things a person notices in a room, Bowers says. “They draw your gaze,” she says. They also can accentuate a focal point.

PENDANT FIXTURES — These elements, which feature a globe suspended on a cord, chain or rod, are available in a wide variety of designs and prices. They are good for task lighting over an island or bar, for example, and can make a big visual impact for the cost.

Abboud suggests using pendant fixtures in kitchens, powder rooms (with a dimmer), outdoor kitchens and grilling areas. She says industrial and retro-industrial styles are hot at the moment, as is hanging multiples of the same pendant fixture. Something new she’s seen: artistic installations comprising three to five pendant fixtures hung at different heights.

Ber says customers at Lighting Inc. are using pendants for other applications as well — over sinks, nightstands and bathtubs.

Bowers says the staff at Ferguson has coined the word “pendalier” to describe a new category of chandelier/pendant hybrid. Such pendants are larger than the typical pendant fixture (ranging from 15 to 20 inches in diameter), use two to three bulbs instead of one and are ideal for foyers.

TOP LEFT: A ceiling fixture has a dome made of gold shaped like leaves, from Lighting Inc. ABOVE: This wall sconce from Lighting Inc. adds a sculptural attitude to the room as well as providing light.

LEFT: Beaded globeshaped pendant fixtures can be hung in groups at varying heights for a maximum visual effect, available at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery.

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OUTDOOR LIGHTING

ABCs of LEDs

LEFT: Uplighting at the base of a planter adds drama to a yard at night, and wall-mounted lights on the house add to the ambience.

LED LIGHTING HAS BEEN AROUND FOR YEARS (mostly used in electronics like clock radios), but there are more forms of LED lighting today than ever before. Here are the basics:

PHOTO COURTESY THE PLANT GALLERY

BELOW: Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights make a variety of classic outdoor lighting fixtures that can be mounted in a variety of ways. Below are portable stainless steel pool house lanterns.

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode and its bulbs are electrical and emit very little heat. Most conventional light bulbs are filled with gas and contain a filament that lights up; they get very hot.

LED bulbs are more energy-efficient than conventional lightbulbs.

LED bulbs are appropriate for most lighting uses.

LED bulbs cost more but last longer, making them more convenient and economical in the long run.

Most manufacturers guarantee LED bulbs for three to five years (after that time they produce only 70 percent of the light emitted when they were new).

LED lights are available in a variety of color “temperatures” ranging from cooler to warmer.

LED bulb styles range from candelabra to vintage Edison.

Some new LED fixtures have adjustable color ranges and beam spreads (a measure of the angle and width of the light emitted).

The range of LEDs is greater than that of standard bulb fixtures, so do some homework or seek advice from a lighting professional.

PHOTO COURTESY BEVOLO GAS AND ELECTRIC LIGHTS

Kenny Rabalais, a landscape designer at the Plant Gallery, says there are three priorities when making an outdoor lighting plan: accenting plants and architectural features so you can enjoy them at night, illuminating dark walkways and doorways for security, and setting a mood that reflects how you use your outdoor spaces. There are different types of lighting available to achieve those goals.

• GAS LIGHTING —The timeless appeal of a gas flame makes it ideally suited to outdoor entrances such as doorways and gateways, where it provides an inviting glow. Because gas lighting provides a minimum of light, Rabalais says, it typically is combined with other types of landscape and security lighting.

• ELECTRIC LIGHTS — New electric lighting, like LED, uses less electricity. Rabalais says LED fixtures have the added advantage of not dimming over time like standard electric bulbs.

• FREESTANDING LIGHTS — These normally are installed on stakes in the ground and are easy to move around. They are good for lining pathways and flowerbeds, and are portable enough to take with you if you move.

• WALL-MOUNTED FIXTURES — Installing a wall-mounted light fixture doesn’t require hiring a licensed electrician; all that’s needed is an outdoor plug. They are a good option for do-it-yourselfers and renters who don’t want to invest a lot of money in lighting the outside of a property they don’t own.

If in doubt, consult a professional. “Go to a showroom where the people have the expertise to sit down and explain what you want to know,” Ber says.

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HOME RESOURCE GUIDE ADVERTISER DIRECTORY Whether you’re buying, renovating or redecorating a home, call on these local businesses for knowledgeable and professional service, custom and quality supplies and vintage and modern inspiration.

Antiques/Vintage Dop Antiques & Architecturals 300 Jefferson Highway, (504) 3735132; www.dopantiques.com European antiques, architectural items, lighting, garden and patio furniture, mirrors, rugs, custom-made items and decorative accessories are available in a 20,000-square-foot showroom that offers merchandise from France, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and England.

Building Materials/ Supplies Preservation Salvage Store 2801 Marais St., (504) 947-0038; www.rtno.org Rebuilding Together New Orleans, a program of the Preservation Resource Center, started its Deconstruction and Salvage Program and its Preservation Salvage Store to save reusable materials and convert sales into dollars to rebuild homes in New Orleans. Shop for vintage elements, used building materials and architectural details.

Doors/Windows

Cool-Vue Aluminum 2624 Delaware Ave., Kenner, (504) 464-9194; www.coolvue.com In business for 70 years, the

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home improvement contractor manufactures and installs storm shutters, decorative shutters, sun rooms, patios, screen enclosures, canvas or aluminum awnings, vinyl or aluminum replacement windows and roll screens and shades.

Gulf Enterprises 901 Edwards Ave., Suite 100, Jefferson, (504) 734-3254; 4333 Washington Ave., (504) 822-0785; www.gulfenterprisesinc.com The business specializes in doors, windows, skylights and other building materials and specialty products. Gulf Enterprises offers hurricane products and is familiar with historic requirements for renovations and new constructions.

Brands include Sierra Pacific Windows, Marvin Windows & Doors and more.

Magnetite Windows 11120 Amite River Road, Baton Rouge, (800) 467-6069; www.magnetitewindows.com Magnetite Insulating Windows are desinged to provide superior insulating abilities without the high costs associated with replacement windows. Benefits include reduction in noise and energy costs. > > > SPRING

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Fabrics/Upholstery Artee Fabrics and Home 3116 N. Arnoult Road, Suite M, Metairie, (504) 302-2160; www.arteefabricsandhome.com The fabric store has 2,000-plus bolts of fabric from around the world in stock.Custom-order fabric is available, as well as custom services for upholstery, drapery and bedding.

Benson’s Upholstery, Inc. 3044 B Galleria Drive, Metairie, (504) 831-5244; www.bensonsupholstery.com Benson’s Upholstery has more than 40 years of experience specializing in custom furniture upholstery featuring leather, faux leathers, fabric and cushions.

Fairfax Fabric Company 3613 Magazine St., Studio F, (504) 309-9503; www.fairfaxfabriccompany.com Fairfax offers fabrics by the yard, as well as trim, pillows and more. Special orders are available.

Flooring/Carpets/Rugs Floor & Decor Design Gallery 2801 Magazine St., (504) 8913005; www.flooranddecor.com Tile, wood and stone flooring and a variety of decorative tiles and medallions are specialty products of this business, which also offers installation.

Floor de Lis Flooring 3840 Canal St., (504) 488-4880; www.floordelis.com Flooring options include hardwood, carpeting, laminate, vinyl, tile and stone.

Floor de Lis also offers free in-home measurements, floor

refinishing, installation and interior design consultations.

Furniture/Home Decor/ Accessories/Gifts Canal Furniture Liquidators 3534 Toulouse St., (504) 482-6851 The store specializes in selling “pre-enjoyed” furniture, mainly from liquidated hotels, office buildings and restaurants.

Compass Furniture 5025 Bloomfield St., (504) 7334621; www.compassfurniture.com The local family owned furniture store has an impressive selection that can fit any style or budget. Compass Furniture has been in business for 38 years.

Dunn and Sonnier AntiquesFlorals-Gifts 2138 Magazine St., (504) 5243235; www.dunnandsonnier.com The European-style boutique offers an eclectic mix of home decor, accessories, antiques, gifts and flower arrangements.

Haven Custom Furnishings 300 Jefferson Highway, (504) 304-2144; www.havencustomfurnishings.com Haven offers several lines of customizable products like furnishings, window treatments and lighting.

Niche Modern Home 1901 Highway 190, Suite 3, Mandeville, (985) 624-4045; www.nichemodernhome.com Looking for a unique gift or the perfect accessory? Maybe you need to refurnish your living room? Find your niche at Niche Modern Home.

Razzle Dazzle Home 2014 Magazine St., (504) 5239525; www.razzledazzle.com Razzle Dazzle Home offers

eclectic home decor for traditional and transitional modern living, as well as unique gifts and decorative accessories.

Weekly shipments ensure there’s always something new.

The Shops at 2011 2011 Magazine St., (504) 4070499; www.theshopsat2011.com Our marketplace includes a unique collection of designs and artists offering a varied selection of home decor, antiques, art, jewelry and gifts.

Wilkerson Row 3137 Magazine St., (504) 8993311; www.wilkersonrow.com Custom-made furniture from reclaimed cypress includes beds, dining tables, armoires, dressers, bookcases & custom pieces. Choice of finishes. In business 28 years.

Hardware Mary’s Kitchenware & Housewares 732 N. Rampart St., (504) 529-4465 The home accessory and hardware store, located in the French Quarter above Mary’s Ace Hardware, offers a full line of cookware, kitchen gadgets, small appliances, accessories and paint in a range of wellknown brands.

Homeowner Resources New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity 2900 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 861-2077; www.habitat-nola.org Habitat for Humanity builds new homes in partnership with low-income families. Safe and affordable homes built by staff and volunteers have zero-interest mortgages.

Interior Design/ Decorating Shawn O’Brien Interiors 1141 N. Dupre St., (504) 450-8491; www.shawnobrieninteriors.com The full-service interior design firm has 23 years of experience selecting bespoke fabrics and furnishings to make your home everything you dream it can be.

Spruce 2043 Magazine St., (504) 2650946; www.sprucenola.com

Spruce is an interior design studio and boutique wallpaper and fabric showroom with lines from all over the world, some that are one-of-akind to the Gulf region.

Kitchens/Bathrooms BC Kitchen & Bath, LLC 3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 338-6227; www.bckitchenbath.com High-quality kitchen and bathroom cabinets and countertops for the home are manufactured by this locally owned company and are in stock at it’s large warehouse.

Nordic Kitchens and Baths 1818 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 888-2300; www.nordickitchens.com The showroom exhibits kitchen and bathroom appliances, cabinetry, countertops, faucets and fixtures from Sub-Zero, Wolf, Gaggenau, La Cornue, Viking and other luxury brands. It also provides design services.

Southern Refinishing 708 Barataria Blvd., Marrero, (504) 348-1770; www.southernrefinishing.com The family-owned company specializes in reglazing and restoring bathtubs, tiles, vanity tops and sinks. It also does tub/shower conversions and repairs. Southern Refinishing also sells clawfoot bathtubs and hardware.

Landscaping/ Gardening/Florals Exterior Designs 2903 Octavia St., (504) 866-0276; www.exteriordesignsbev.com Exterior Designs has more than 25 years of experience in landscaping, building, maintenance and more. Featured services include custom designing of landscapes, courtyards, pools and driveways for residential and commercial properties.

Jefferson Feed, Pet & Garden Center 4421 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson, (504) 733-8572; 309 N. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-8118; 6047 Magazine St., (504) 218-4220; www.jeffersonfeed.com Jefferson Feed sells lawn and garden supplies, sod, plants, soils and mulches, fountains and ponds, pet foods, flea and

tick control and more. Delivery is available for some products.

Lighting Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights 521 Conti St., 316/318 Royal St., (504) 522-9485; www.bevolo.com The largest manufacturer of high-quality traditional, antique and custom-designed handmade copper lighting fixtures in gas or electric, has been in business for 71 years.

Lighting Inc. 8180 Earhart Blvd., (504) 4865761; www.lightinginconline.com Lighting fixtures range from lamps and landscape lighting to ceiling fans in a wide range of designs. The staff also assists customers in understanding new government regulations for lights, replacing bulbs and installing LED fixtures.

Marble/Pavers/Tile/ Stone/Concrete/ Masonry Palatial Stone and Tile 2052 Paxton St., Harvey, (504) 3402229; www.palatialstone.com The retail stone and tile showroom and fabrication shop offers installation of natural stone, mosaic products and glass, metal, porcelain and artisan tiles.

Organizing/Closets Bayou Closets, Inc. 2537 N. Rampart St., (504) 9448388; www.bayouclosets.com Bayou Closets is home to specialists in home organization and storage. Design, consultation and installation of custom closets, custom home office and custom laundry room cabinets and other types of storage systems are available.

California Closets 3211 N. Causeway Blvd. Suite B, Metairie, (504) 828-5705; www.californiaclosets.com California Closets provides custom-designed and installed storage for closets, bedrooms, garages, pantries and more.

Louisiana Custom Closets 13405 Seymour Meyer Blvd., Suite 24, Covington, (985) 8710810; www.louisianacustomclosets.com S PR ING

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The locally owned business custom-designs and manufactures closets, pantries, laundry rooms, home offices and garages and provides other shelving and storage needs.

Paint/Painters Unfolded: A distributor for Annie Sloan 639 Julia St., (504) 305-5531; www.unfolded.com Chalk paint, brushes, fabrics, books and decorative embellishments comprise Annie Sloan’s product range. Chalk paint can be used on most surfaces such as wood, metal and terra cotta.

Plumbing Services & Supplies Earl’s Plumbing and Drain Cleaning 5107 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie, (504) 888-8888; www.earls-plumbingandheating.com The company specializes in under-slab plumbing repairs but services all types of construction. It also offers drain cleaning, water heaters, gas testing, inspections and water leak detection.

Realtors Matthew W. La Rose Dorian Bennett/Sotheby’s International Realty 2340 Dauphine St., (504) 9443605; www.dbsir.com Matthew W. La Rose is a real estate professional with an appreciation for art, architecture and culture at a firm with a reputation for service.

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Laminate flooring with a limed-oak finish, available at Floor de Lis Flooring.

FLOOR SURE From reclaimed wood to newfangled laminates, there are flooring options for every need and taste.

WHAT MAKES A HOME STRIKING? The overall effect comes from a panoply of textures, colors and personal touches: the right lampshade, a bold rug, curios on a coffee table — and how those accents are set off by the basic structure of the home: ceilings, walls and floors.

The right floors can make a house seem effortlessly clean and stylish. They also can set the tone of the home as a secure place that has longevity, is comfortable and easy to maintain. Above all, floors need to look good.

New Orleans homeowners tend to embrace a classic style, says Lindsay Swenson, chief execute merchant at Floor & Decor Design Gallery. “We’re kind of slow on the uptake of trends,” she says. “The word ‘trendy’ is a huge negative in everyone’s mind. They want to stick with classics.”

For a timeless look, hardwoods and marble are good options, and reclaimed pine flooring is a popular choice at Floor de Lis Flooring.

Owner Mark Hughes says while hardwood floors rule in traditional New Orleans homes, many manufacturers are shifting focus to

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luxury vinyl planks or luxury vinyl tile.

“It’s basically like a vinyl that has a wood or tile look to it,” Hughes says. “It installs real easy, looks great, is very scratch-resistant and also completely waterproof.”

These lookalikes, which are made to endure the rigors of everyday living, offer homeowners a more durable style — and a reprieve from upkeep and repairs.

“If a homeowner has large dogs and just knows that the dogs are going to tear the wood up, they may look to an alternate,” Swenson says. “One of the hottest things right now in the tile market is wood-look tile. The graphics have just gotten better and better and better, and the planks are getting longer and longer. ...

If installed properly, (it) is quite convincing.

“And then that’s a zero-maintenance type of product, where they just don’t have to worry about wear-and-tear. It’s not going to gouge.

It’s not going to scratch. That’s a rapidly growing category in flooring. We’re also seeing some really cool things in the world of laminates, where some really high-end ... really look like

Arabesque porcelain tile from Floor & Decor Design Gallery.

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New trends at Floor & Decor Design Gallery include tiles in elongated hexagons, elongated subway tiles and herringbone patterns.

wood, including water-resistant laminates, so those would go throughout the entire house, including the bathroom.”

For a classic New Orleans bathroom, marble never goes out of style, but it requires cleaning a certain way and taking precautions against staining and etching. Swenson says homeowners looking for something more worry-free may prefer porcelain that looks like natural stone or tiles that come in lots of colors, shapes and finishes and are becoming less expensive.

“We’re making them accessible to the general public, so that’s great for historic homes,” Swenson says, adding that tiles provide a way to make a design statement or establish a focal point. Tiles come in squares and rectangles with smooth finishes, but also elongated hexagons, arabesques, crackle-finish tiles and more.

One of Swenson’s favorite places to do a bold design is a guest bathroom. “It’s always such a small amount of square footage and it’s what your guests see, so everyone likes to have that be an impressive space” she says.

Keith Delaune of Modern Flooring, a family-owned local retailer, wants to see carpeting take back the den, and he

believes Tigressa H2O, a super-soft nylon carpet that is waterproof and durable, may do it.

“We wanted a carpet that would put people at ease,” he says. The H2O carpet “attacks those worries that people have for putting carpet in high-traffic areas.”

Nylon carpet has undergone improvements in recent years and now is softer and holds up better than in the past.

“Nylon is the next best thing to wool,” Delaune says. “Wool is the best yarn system for flooring, naturally ... [but the new nylon carpet is anti-microbial and it wears great.” Carpeting also comes in a wide range of colors, textures and designs.

A current trend is warm grays with brown undertones, Delaune says, and patterned carpets are growing in popularity.

Flooring professionals familiar with the many options available can help identify solutions for individual needs.

“Every customer that comes into the store, I do a little interview,” Hughes says.

“I talk to them and try to find out exactly what their needs are, where their home is, the type of home, raised or on a slab, and whether they have kids, pets, how many people are in the house … and I try to guide them from there.”

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WATER WORLDS Fountains and ponds add serenity to an outdoor retreat and can improve a yard’s ecosystem

BY ANDREA BLUMENSTEIN

WHEN MOST PEOPLE APPROACH BEVERLY KATZ OF EXTERIOR DESIGNS to spruce up their outdoor spaces, they don’t know what they want. They come to her with an unidentified problem, and her response is to create an “outside room” in the historic style of New Orleans by taking cues from the interior of their home.

Most people are looking for beauty and to relax in their outside space, and south Louisiana — New Orleans in particular — is renowned for its unique style of outdoor living.

Courtyards and gardens across the city have elegant details such as traditional iron, flagstone and lush greenery.

Outdoor water features create a peaceful oasis by filling the gap between silence and distracting neighborhood noise with the soothing trickle of water. By combining visual and auditory sensory appeal, landscape designs that incorporate a water element often elevatate a homeowner’s space. These features can take many forms, depending on available space, budget and lifestyle, including semi-portable fountains, sculptural fountains and in-ground ponds.

Adding a sculptural fountain beside a pool is easy because the electrical and pumping systems are in place.

PHOTO COURTESY EXTERIOR DESIGNS

A large blue fountain that resembles a planter is placed in a backyard flower bed.

PHOTO COURTESY EXTERIOR DESIGNS

CLOSE YOUR EYES AND LISTEN. A light trickle of water melds with a soft rustle of leaves and the subtle chirping of birds.

“People come to me very stressed, and I clean things up and bring color and texture and sound,” Katz says.

A water feature is an easy addition to a pool because the pumping and water mechanisms are already in place and the filtration system keeps leaves from clogging the pump.

For free-standing pieces, the mechanisms require only light electrical wiring and manual filling with water. The cost ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars and professional installation normally isn’t required.

“Water features add a cheery sound ambience and dancing light,” says biologist Demetria Christo, co-owner of EcoUrban Landscaping. “The right water feature also offers a crucial element to a healthy habitat — a dependable source of clean water. Birds and beneficial insects need a source of water to survive.”

In return, the overall health of a garden improves, she says.

“Birds prefer water that is only 1 inch deep for drinking and bathing,” Christo says, “so look for ways to add a shallow area to your water features.” She also suggests placing water features under a tree or in a protected area because birds are more inclined to visit a place where they feel safe from predators.

Leaf control is the most important consideration for upkeep of any outdoor fountain with a motor. Ponds require less attention.

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This pond has waterfalls and adds to the ecosystem of the backyard.

PHOTO COURTESY AQUATIC LANDSCAPES INC.

Ring of Diamonds free-standing fountain from The Garden Fountain Store.

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PONDS COME IN TWO FORMS: a traditional style with flagstone sides and borders and a bare liner at the bottom, or an “aquascape” style, with round rocks and screen gravel that obscure the liner from view.

Dennis Weese of Aquatic Landscapes Inc. says the most important aspect of upkeep for a pond is maintaining the plants and controlling leaves. With regular attention, a pond can go two to three years without needing much of anything, he says.

“A full cleanout is only needed every couple of years — if you are willing to let the pond be a pond,” he says.

Aquatic Landscapes offers everything from design to maintenance, and Weese says much of his job is about managing expectations. “In southern Louisiana, algae are always going to be a battle,” he says. “It is not possible to have a pond with zero algae. The goal is to keep it to a minimum.”

A balanced ecosystem is key, he says. The right proportion of plants to fish (or an algae-eating chemical supplement) will keep the pond in its ideal state.

“Another rule of thumb is never feed your fish,” he says. “There is more than enough for them to eat in Mother Nature.”

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A well-nourished, regularly watered lawn is like a welcome mat for your home.

OUTDOOR

CARPET

Lawns can be a beautiful ground cover for outdoor spaces, and a few basic steps can keep grass weed- and pest-free and beautiful all year long.

THE SECRET TO A BEAUTIFUL LAWN IS SIMPLE: Give grass exactly what it wants and in exchange it will minimize the time required for upkeep (except for mowing) and maximize its padding ability and appearance. Plus, healthy grass naturally hampers the growth of weeds, fungal diseases and pests, eliminating the need for chemical remedies.

Here are the basics of lawn care compiled from Louisiana Lawns Best Management Practices (BMPS) from the Louisiana State University AgCenter (www. lsuagcenter.com) and The Old Farmers Almanac.

Test your soil. Take a plug of soil from your lawn and have it tested for soil fertility factors (the AgCenter offers a kit and testing for $15). The analysis will determine necessary ratios of the main nutrients phosphorus, potassium and lime.

Once the nutrients have been applied and the lawn has responded, use nitrogen fertilizers to control weeds and pests.

Too much fast-release nitrogen fertilizer can build grass thatch (clippings and plant pieces, living and dead, that lie on top of the soil but beneath the green part of grass plants), cause rampant growth

and grass burn and leave plants vulnerable to pests. Slow-release fertilizers are more expensive, but are applied less often and are less likely to cause sudden fast growth or burn (caused by excessive phosphorus) than fast-acting complete fertilizers. Fertilizer bags indicate the chemical analysis of the product with three numbers (8-8-8, 24-6-12, etc.), which is the percentage by weight of (always in this order) nitrogen (N), phosphate (P205) and potash (K20).

Apply fertilizers when grass blades are dry.

Afterward, water lawn to wash fertilizer into the soil. When spreading fertilizer, make sure to overlap the broadcast area so the grass doesn’t develop stripes of nonfertilized lawn.

With a drop spreader, walk at a medium-fast rate and make a single, continuous pass, then position the inside wheel of the spreader to run in contact with the material that was just spread. Broadcast spreaders tend to leave thin and heavy spots, so walk at a medium-fast rate and apply the fertilizer at half the rate and half the swath width and overlap the broadcast pattern on subsequent passes.

Grass needs regular watering, and the best time to water a lawn is in the morning.

Generally 1 inch of water once or twice a week during dry periods is sufficient. Light watering, however frequent, isn’t recommended as the water doesn’t soak into the ground and can cause grass to grow shallow roots.

A thin layer of thatch insulates the soil, reduces damage from foot traffic and helps retain moisture. If thatch reaches three-fourths of an inch, however, turfgrass roots begin to grow in the thatch instead of the soil, the layer blocks water and fertilizer from reaching the soil, and plants become susceptible to insects and diseases. Excessive thatch often indicates overfertilizing, overwatering or under-mowing.

Lawns in Louisiana are warm-season grasses, which grow fast in a hot, moist climate.

In general, mow grass before it reaches one and a half times the height to which you have set the mower blade. Allowing grass to grow longer consistently will make the turf (the top layer of earth with a mat of grass, roots and weeds) thin and weedy. Keeping grass at lower heights can increase the quality of turf but may require fertilizing and mowing more often.

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PETS AND LAWNS WHILE HUMANS SEE A LAWN AS A TIDY PRESENTATION FOR THEIR HOME, dogs see it as a soft playground, a place to run, play fetch, chase squirrels and relieve themselves. Pets and lawns don’t need to be at odds. Here are some ways to keep your pets safe and your lawn pretty.

Pet urine is high in salt that can cause a lawn to have brown spots ringed by fast-growing grass that’s normally a darker green. To avoid the spots, flush areas where your pet has urinated as soon as possible to dilute the salt. You can patch damaged areas with sod or reseed them. There also are commercial products to neutralize the salt.

Consider mulching an area in your yard for your pets to use as a toilet and training them to do their business there.

When applying fertilizers or pest control products to your lawn, be sure to follow the manufacturers’ recommendations concerning how long to keep pets off the lawn to be safe.

Some products recommend watering the lawn after such applications and waiting until it’s dry before any people or animals walk on it. (This also keeps people and animals from tracking residue into the house.)

Others say exposure to the products, even when wet, is not harmful to pets. Check the recommendations, since dogs and cats sometimes eat grass as a remedy for an upset stomach.

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Retest your lawn’s soil every two to three years; its chemical composition changes often.

Some tips for greening: To make centipede grass a darker green, fertilize it frequently with a mixture of 2 to 3 ounces of ferrous sulfate (iron) in water per 1,000 square feet of lawn. For a green lawn in the winter, overseed warm-weather grasses with rye grass seed (10 pounds seed per 1,000 square feet) in October or November and apply a top dressing in mid-December. A second top dressing can be applied seven weeks later.

Weeds, insects and fungal diseases are the main pests of turf grass, but maintaining proper fertilization, thatch control and mowing procedures should develop a turf capable of fending off those pests naturally.

Brown patches, uneven growth and a pale color are signs of a lawn under stress.

HIGHER GROUND RAISED BEDS HOLD BENEFITS FOR PLANTS AS WELL AS GARDENERS. They allow you to overcome poor soil by creating the ideal soil and nutrient mix and make the time spent gardening more comfortable because there’s less bending and kneeling.

Whether you purchase a kit or build your own, here are some tips for creating a raised bed garden.

Locate the garden in a sunny area. Most plants require at least six hours of sun, and vegetables like tomatoes, peppers and melons produce best with a full day of sunlight.

Select a long-lasting building material such as interlocking blocks, fieldstone, plastic lumber or a naturally long-lasting wood like cedar. The selection will influence the shape and size of the bed because some materials allow for curved beds while others limit the choices to angular shapes, such as squares and rectangles.

Design your bed to fit your space and needs. A 3- or 4-foot width makes it easy to reach all parts of the garden for planting, weeding and harvesting. Raising your planting bed at least 8 to 12 inches improves drainage and provides adequate space for plants to root and grow. If you want to minimize bending, raise the bed higher. (Bonnie Plants has free plans at www.bonnieplants.com/library.)

Loosen the existing soil surface, especially if the bed is built on compacted soil, to allow water to move readily from the raised bed into the soil below. Remove existing weeds and grass, or cover the bottom of the bed with newspaper or cardboard to smother unwanted plants.

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Raised beds give your garden plot better drainage, healthier plants — and it’s easier to sow and maintain plants.

BY MELINDA MYERS

Line the bottom of your raised bed with hardware cloth to reduce the risk of animals burrowing into your garden. Lay the hardware cloth over the ground and bend it up along the inside of bed walls.

Fill the bed with a quality soil mix that drains well but also retains nutrients and moisture. Choices include high-quality commercial potting mixtures, a combination of topsoil and compost or a planting mix designed specifically for raised bed gardens.

Plant any flowers, vegetables or other flora you normally would grow in the ground. Since the soil mix and drainage are ideal in a raised garden, it’s possible to grow more plants per square foot; just leave adequate room for plants to reach their mature size.

Consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses to make watering easier. Proper watering is key to keeping plants healthy and productive in any space, but raised beds need more frequent watering. The simple act of raising the bed height increases drainage, and so does filling a bed with planting mix. Always water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry.

Add mulch to help reduce the need for watering and other garden maintenance.

Spread a layer of evergreen needles, pine straw, shredded leaves or other organic matter over the surface soil. This helps

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conserve moisture, suppresses weeds and, as it decomposes, adds nutrients to the soil. You’ll spend less time watering and weeding throughout the season.

Mix an organic fertilizer into the soil when you fill the raised bed if your planting mix does not contain one. Apply fertilizer again mid-season (or as indicated in the fertilizer directions) if the plants need a nutrient boost.

The time and effort invested in creating raised beds will be returned many times over with years of healthy and productive gardens.

— Gardening expert Melinda Myers hosts the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV and radio segments and has written more than 20 gardening books. She also is a contributing editor and columnist for Birds & Blooms.

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PAINT

THAT NICE

BY MISSY WILKINSON

Pros share the 411 on paint for a perfect finish.

THE DECK’S PEELING, THE PORCH IS MILDEWED AND THAT HUNTER-GREEN COLOR scheme hasn’t been in style since the Reagan administration. These are just a few indications that it’s time to paint the house. Whether homeowners take the DIY approach or call in the pros, there are a few things they should know to get optimum results.

However, aluminum or galvanized metal require acrylic paint. “When people paint their gutters or lightweight aluminum, use acrylic systems, which bond to it,” Helm says.

Are primers necessary?

How often should you paint?

When paint starts peeling or “chalking” (“You wipe your hand across it and get a film of chalk,” says Will Watts, owner of NOLA Paint & Supplies), it’s time to repaint.

A good paint job can last seven to 10 years before showing signs of wear. Regular maintenance extends its life. “Wash it once or twice a year,” Watts says. “That gets rid of the dirt that sticks to [paint] and creates a place for mildew to grow. Once you have mildew, it’s hard to get rid of it.”

Cheaper brands of paint peel and chalk sooner, too. “Down here, a lot of people repaint every three years, because they can’t afford the cost of the [more expensive] paint,” Watts says.

It costs $8,000 to $12,000 to have a house professionally painted, Watts adds, so it makes sense to invest in a good product.

What type of paint do exterior walls require?

A 100 percent acrylic latex paint is the best choice, says Joe Helm, general manager of Helm Paint & Decorating. Make sure to choose a paint that’s designated “exterior,” because it’s specially designed to stand up to the elements.

“Properties are built into these products like UV resistance, dirt pickup resistance, flexibility and water resistance that may not be needed [for an] interior,” says Rick Watson, director of product information at Sherwin-Williams.

Can you use the same paint on porches and decks?

No. Different parts of the house have different needs. “You need a porch and deck paint — polyurethane is mixed into it so it can handle more wear,” Watts says.

Sherwin-Williams’ SuperDeck line consists of paints and stains specifically designed for decks. Helm suggests oil-based or waterborn alkyd (paints with water-borne oils) paints for porches. “We use oil-based paints on porches or areas that will take a lot of traffic, but it’s a shorter life [than acrylic],” Helm says.

What about metal railings and gutters?

For decorative wrought iron or hand rails, use an oil-based paint. “You would want to use oil in some capacity, because it holds up better to corrosion,” Helm says. “You don’t get oxidation and it doesn’t allow moisture to attack.”

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Not always. If you’re painting over old paint using a similar color, primer isn’t required, Helm says. However, if you’re painting over new wood or material that has never been primed, a coat of primer will bond to the materials’ surface and help the topcoat cover it. That can result in using less topcoat to get the desired color, which can mean saving money, Helm says. Also prime the surface if you’re using a product that specifically calls for the use of primer, Watson says.

How do you prepare the surface for painting?

“The key to a good paint job is prep work,” Watts says. Remove peeling paint. Clean the surface, then sand. “If you sand first, all you’re doing is grinding dirt and grime into the existing finish,” Watson says. Let the surface dry completely. “If the surface has holes or peeling paint and you paint over that, your finish will only be as good as what it rests on,” Watt says.

How can I come up with a creative color combination and get a dramatic look?

High-gloss oil paints in vibrant hues are a trend for front doors and shutters. “It’s become something fashionable to set the 2016<<<

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house off,” Helm says.

When it comes to creative color combinations, a color wheel can be a homeowners’ best friend. Some are monochromatic, consisting of various hues in the same family from darker to lighter, while others feature triadic color harmonies.

“There’s a triangle in the wheel that picks three colors that go with each other,” Watts says.

Customers who want the traditional New Orleans porch with blue ceilings should make sure the hue they choose complements the rest of the house’s colors. “A lot of people put blue on the porch and realize it doesn’t match,” Watts says.

“Make sure you have that flow with the blue you use.”

Though a good paint job can last up to 10 years, some homeowners repaint more often because they want a color change.

Villeres

YOUR BRAIN ON COLOR That neon green bathroom looks nice on Pinterest, but will it end up stressing you out? Read on for what different colors represent psychologically.

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RED

A stimulating color, red symbolizes anger and passion and raises people’s blood pressure and respiration rates.

ORANGE

Orange combines yellow’s mood-lifting qualities and red’s sensuality.

YELLOW

This cheery, warming hue symbolizes optimism, though studies show babies cry more in yellow rooms.

GREEN

The color of nature, green is restful and soothing.

BLUE

A cool, calming hue, blue feels serene, but may make food appear unappetizing.

PURPLE

Regal purple gives rooms an opulent and mysterious note.

BLACK

Black visually constricts a space and has powerful associations with death, magic and authority.

White feels clean, expansive and innocent.

resou rces A LISTING OF THE RETAILERS AND PROFESSIONALS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE OF CUE’S HOME RESOURCE GUIDE.

From house to home PAGE 9

Keller Williams Realty 8601 Leake Ave., (504) 862-0100; www.rickylemann.com Latter & Blum Realty (504) 895-4663; www.johnschaff.latter-blum.com; www.michaelzarou.latterblum.com Louisiana Home Builders Association (800) 272-9912; www.lhba.org Renovate Inc. 824 24th St., Kenner, (504) 464-4700; www.renovateinc.com

Light touch PAGE 14

Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights 318 Royal St., (504) 552-4311; 521 Conti St., (504) 522-9485; www.bevolo.com Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery 901 S. Labarre Road, Metairie, (504) 849-3060; 21476 Marion Lane, Mandeville, (985) 3276963; www.ferguson.com Fur.nish 3413 N. Causeway Blvd., (504) 702-8514; www.facebook.com/ nolarecycledmetairie Lighting Inc. 8180 Earhart Blvd., (504) 486-5761; www.lightinginconline.com

Floor de Lis Flooring 3840 Canal St., (504) 488-4880; www.floordelis.com Modern Flooring & Interiors 3619 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1364; www.modernflooring.net

Water worlds PAGE 25

Aquatic Landscapes Inc. (504) 782-4944; www.aquaticlandscapesinc.com Exterior Designs (504) 866-0276; www.exteriordesignsbev.com The Garden Fountain Store (504) 782-6080; www.thegardenfountainstore.com

The Plant Gallery 9401 Airline Highway, (504) 488-8887; www.theplantgallery.com

Paint that nice

Floor sure

NOLA Paint & Supplies 2900 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 948-9620; www.nolapaintandsupplies.com

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Floor & Decor Design Gallery 2801 Magazine St., (504) 891-3005; www.flooranddecor.com

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Helm Paint & Decorating Citywide; www.helmpaint.com

Sherwin-Williams Citywide, www.sherwin-williams.com

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