Where Did the Middle Go? The Urgent Need For Missing Middle Housing
Finding Their Spark: Fireplaces and Chimneys Ignited A Passion in These Local Business Owners
Breaking Ground: New Innovations in Concrete Composition
CONCRETE CO.
Room With A View: Key Partnerships Bring the Highest Quality Finishes to New Builds
COMB PELLA WINDOWS & DOORS / CHRISTOPHER SCOTT
Decades of Excellence: Associated Drywall Partners is 30+ and Still Going Strong
Textile: Virginia Tile, A Favorite of Indianapolis Designers and Builders, Has Opened Their New Showroom Doors
Precision Through Pixels: How Digital Printing is Revolutionizing Surface Design
haven
PUBLISHER
Adam Grubb Media
MANAGING EDITOR
Stephanie Decker
EDITOR
Bailey Shelton
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Molly Tippner
WRITERS
Darcie Duranceau
Christy Heitger-Ewing Shari Held
Carie McMichael
Bailey Shelton
Wendi Williams
PHOTOGRAPHERS
360 Tour Designs
Adam Gibson Architectural Photography
Adam Grubb Media
The Addison Group
Dave Pluimer
Sarah Shields Photography
Structured Photography
Cover photo by Adam Gibson
Architectural Photography havenhome.me
Upcoming Events
July 2024
Downtown Indy’s Fourth Fest
July 4th – 6pm-10pm
Downtown, North Street between Meridian Street and Pennsylvania
Kick off the Fourth of July celebration with food trucks, ice cream, and beverages, plus a festival stage with live musical performances before fireworks begin at 10 p.m.
Visit downtownindy.org/events/fourth-fest
CarmelFest
July 3rd & 4th
Carmel, Indiana
CarmelFest is a beloved annual summer tradition for families and friends throughout Indiana. Enjoy live entertainment, delicious festival food, shopping at the unique marketplace, sitting together under the spectacular fireworks, and celebrating our country’s independence at our patriotic parade! Come make special memories! Visit carmelfest.net
Home Artisans of Indiana Meetings
July 3rd & every other Thursday
All In Painting – 122 S. Park Blvd., Greenwood, IN 46143 (Greenwood Chapter)
July 11th & every other Thursday
Hub & Spoke – 8100 E. 106th St., Fishers, IN 46038 (Fishers Chapter)
July 18th & every other Thursday
Indiana Design Center – 200 S. Rangeline Road, Carmel, IN 46032 (Carmel Chapter)
Home improvement professionals experience common challenges on their journey to success. Home Artisans is a curated community of like-minded
business leaders dedicated to personal and professional growth and guided by a commitment to superior quality, value, and outstanding customer service.
Visit homeartisans.com
Haven 2024 July/August Cover Party
July 18th – 5:30pm-7:30pm
10550 Pete Dye Ridge, Zionsville, IN 46077
Join us to celebrate the July/August 2024 issue of Haven featuring Innovation in the Industry and hosted by Tresss Aquatectural Designs. Take advantage of the opportunity to connect with top professionals in the home services industry of Greater Indianapolis, all while supporting the featured charity, Light for Levi Foundation. This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. RSVP is required. Complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
RSVP at havenhome.me/magazine/nextcover-party
August 2024
Home Artisans of Indiana Meetings
August 1st & every other Thursday
Indiana Design Center – 200 S. Rangeline Road, Carmel, IN 46032 (Carmel Chapter)
August 8th & every other Thursday
Hub & Spoke – 8100 E. 106th St., Fishers, IN 46038 (Fishers Chapter)
August 14th & every other Thursday
All In Painting – 122 S. Park Blvd., Greenwood, IN 46143 (Greenwood Chapter)
(See July listing for descriptions) Visit homeartisans.com
INNOVATE the Industry issue
Modern Problems Require Midwestern SOLUTIONS
by Bailey Shelton / photos by 360 Tour Designs, Adam Gibson Architectural Photography, and The Addison Group
In the late 1920s and 30s, Muncie residents took part in a sociological survey dubbed The Middletown Studies, which became the standard of the “average American city.” Indiana was the clock the country set their watch to.
Midwestern trends still have a way of reaching the whole of the
country. The modern farmhouse, a style of home that Hoosiers have widely embraced in the past five years, is now as popular as the craftsman or prairie home in American suburbs.
Hoosiers are continuing to push the envelope in the home industry, with companies like TRESSS Aquatectural Designs
G&G CUSTOM HOMES
leading the charge. Mechanical engineer Andrew Heard took his experience with racecars and applied it to a problem in his own home. Their Smart Plunge Pool, moving pool floor and Aquatectural Pool Covers combine to make a versatile pool that fits on almost any lot.
Necessity can spark innovation, and so too can mass construction. In his book “American Homes”, architect Lester Walker references an architectural style called “contractor modern”, a product of the housing boom from 1948 to 1955. The style took notes from Frank Lloyd Wright, but used materials that could be mass produced. Many of these processes are still being used today.
In response to the need for houses, the National Association of Home Builders created “The Trade Secrets house”, a “good-looking, skillfully engineered, $15,000 house” that American contractors could theoretically build anywhere. Today, that’s $172,329.
Associations like Build Indiana Roots are posing similar challenges to builders and legislators. In response to a shrinking middle, they’re asking what it’d look like to feasibly produce a home valued under $200,000.
Luxury homes are pushing for technological solutions to make their property last longer. Builders like G&G Custom Homes and Christopher Scott Homes are using high-end structural products and partnering with brands like McComb Pella Windows & Doors so that homes with picture windows are energy efficient. FLATMADE CONCRETE CO. is using the latest innovations to extend the life of each foundation they pour. Meanwhile, homeowners are exploring different solutions to
improve the homes they already have. Keianna Rae Harrison of HER Home Design says she’s noticed more clients are implementing long term design solutions and wellness into their homes.
With a 30,000 home deficit facing our state, and national home prices hitting record highs, every new home project has the potential for innovation. There is work to be done, and that’s where innovation thrives.
I’m proud to be a woman carving my own path in the Indianapolis construction scene. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch a home rise from the ground, knowing I played a part in making someone’s dream a reality. I’m also proud to work side by side with my husband, Micah, and that experience has really driven home for me how vital it is to have both men’s and women’s voices heard and represented in the industry.
As a female leader in the industry, I’m proud to say that, overall, the pay gap between men and women is smaller in the construction industry than in other fields [with women making 95.5% of what men make] it’s a great career choice! STEM learning initiatives and more visibility have influenced more women to enter the field and today, roughly 9.9% of the construction industry – nationwide – is made up of women.* In Indiana, women account for 11.2% of the constructionrelated workforce!*
At BAGI, we’re committed to championing women’s voices in Central Indiana’s residential construction industry. Together with our male counterparts, BAGI is leading the way in creating a more diverse industry that is enriched by both male and female voices, experiences, and strengths.
One of the primary ways BAGI is advancing women’s voices in construction is our Women Build It Impact Team, which connects female leaders from all facets of our local home building and construction industry to provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and crucial support for women looking to build successful careers in construction. Whether you’re just starting out, are new to the area, or are a seasoned veteran in the field, we’d love for you to join us at these monthly meetings to share your perspective! Visit BAGI.com/Women-Build-It today to learn more and sign up.
BAGI has also partnered with Haven to present the Women Build It Conference, an annual event specifically designed for women in the construction industry to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. From industry veterans to those just starting out, the conference fosters a sense of community and empowers us to reach our full potential. Last year’s conference was a spectacular experience! We shared stories, offered advice, and celebrated each other’s successes. Stay tuned to BAGI and Haven for updates on the 2024 Women Build It Conference.
BAGI is making a real difference by amplifying women’s voices and providing essential resources and valuable networking opportunities that pave the way for a more inclusive future. I encourage you to check out our website, attend a Women Build It Impact Team meeting, and register for the next Women Build It Conference. Who knows, maybe we’ll meet there and build something incredible together!
https://nawic.org/about-nawic/statistics/ and https://www.laborfinders.com/employers/blog/ women-in-construction/
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024 8AM - 5PM
FORUM EVENTS CENTER FISHERS, IN
TATUM HILL Compendium Group
2024 BAGI Board President
BAGI:
IMPACTING THE INDUSTRY
HOW LAST YEAR’S WOMEN BUILD IT CONFERENCE SPARKED INSPIRATION FOR A NEW BAGI IMPACT TEAM
by Bailey Shelton / photos by Adam Grubb Media
In response to the growing need for women-focused opportunities in the building industry, the Builder’s Association of Greater Indianapolis (BAGI) with Haven Media has formed an Impact Team focused on the needs of their current female members.
BAGI Impact Teams present a forum for members to cultivate relationships while engaging with programs and services designed to meet their needs. They are a safe place for members to learn from each other, share resources, and discuss industry challenges and successes.
“As with any of our Impact Teams, we view success with growth in numbers… but we also look at the feedback of our members through surveys to make sure we are providing value,” says BAGI Director of Communications Amanda Parker. “The first Women Build It Impact Team was the largest Impact Team attendance I’ve ever seen, and I love to see that kind of support.”
Parker believes this impact team can help industry professionals at every level unlock their potential. She says, “I think the impact is two-fold. I know women’s
involvement in the building industry is growing and needs to continue to grow. This association excels at guiding and supporting their members and that includes our female members as they grow within a male dominated field.
In addition, new home construction has a growing deficiency in talent – a problem plaguing an industry that is over 90% men. When we leave women out of the conversation, we’re neglecting a fraction of the population that can not only help fill the gap, but aid in solution generation to help solve our growing issue.”
Women comprise nearly half of today’s workforce1, however, within the construction industry they comprise only 6.2% of all construction workers.2
A life-long challenge for women in the workforce and a topic raised in the very first Women Build It Impact Team meeting is equality in the workplace. Equality in the workplace has largely boiled down to pay scales, women making $.84 on the dollar3, but in 2021 women in construction earned 94% of what men earned and that has only continued to level out4 becoming one of the most equally compensated industries.
“THE FIRST WOMEN BUILD IT IMPACT TEAM WAS THE LARGEST IMPACT TEAM ATTENDANCE I’VE EVER SEEN, AND I LOVE TO SEE THAT KIND OF SUPPORT.”
– Amanda Parker, BAGI Director of Communications
“WHAT REALLY STOOD OUT TO US WAS THE ENERGY IN THE ROOM. THESE WOMEN WERE SO EXCITED TO HAVE PROGRAMMING THAT DIRECTLY SPOKE TO THEIR GOALS AND CHALLENGES.”
– Amanda Parker, BAGI Director of Communications
“BAGI not only wants to communicate the opportunity of working in construction to women, but showcase they are compensated competitively,” says Parker.
As women’s involvement in the industry continues to grow, supporting this sector with opportunities for networking and mentorship became apparent at the Women Build It conference in 2023. “The attendance was exceptional, but what really stood out to us was the energy in the room. These women were so excited to have programming that directly spoke to their goals and challenges. We quickly realized the need for ongoing and continuous professional development,” said Parker.
BAGI’s current board president, Tatum Hill of Compendium Group, has been a point of inspiration in female leadership and integral in the further development of this Impact Team.
Parker says of Hill, “She’s only the third female president we’ve ever had, and in a year where so many more resources are being added for our female members, I absolutely love the effort is being led by a woman.”
The Women Build It Conference will return on August 28th, and tickets recently went on sale. Meanwhile, the BAGI Women Build It Impact Team is meeting monthly to continue to grow women and their influence in the new home construction industry.
To register for the 2024 Women Build It Conference, scan the QR code or visit womenbuildindy.com
This year’s Centier Bank Home-A-Rama event will be held at Zionsville’s new and stunning community, Promontory of Zionsville. Enjoy roads that meander through rolling hills lined with Lexington horse fencings and mature trees, enhancing the elevated sense of place in the community – all while exploring new, state-of-the-art custom homes. THREE WEEKENDS: THURSDAY –
SEPTEMBER 12-15, 19-22, & 26-29
This year’s Home-A-Rama event is making its return to Westfield’s stunning, highly desirable Chatham Hills neighborhood for the and final time. Enjoy the community’s luxurious amenities including its two golf courses, swim-up bar, recreation center and dining options while exploring new, state-of-the-art custom homes.
THIS YEAR’S FEATURED BUILDERS:
THIS YEAR'S FEATURED BUILDERS:
WHY BAGI?
PROMOTE, EDUCATE & NETWORK
With over 500 members strong, BAGI works with other organizations and advocates on behalf of you and your business, supporting initiatives that enhance our industry by:
PROMOTING Central Indiana’s new home construction
EDUCATING both our members and consumers on the homebuilding industry’s standards, practices, and happenings
NETWORKING to encourage members to explore business opportunities and successes
READY TO GET STARTED?
Contact Barbara Zoderer, Director of Membership, Events & Promotions, at 317-236-6330 or barbaraz@bagi.com.
AN INDIVIDUALIZED APPROACH
We meet our members where they are and work to get them where they want to go, allowing you to drive engagement, commitment, and opportunities at the level YOU desire.
PROMOTION
NETWORKING
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
ADVOCACY
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
PERSONALIZED RESOURCES
Our Interest Groups and Impact Teams allow you to stay up to date with news and opportunities that speak to your interests while providing a forum where you can build relationships, learn from one another, share resources, and discuss industry challenges and successes.
FIELD SUPERINTENDENTS
URBAN & DEVELOPMENT
SALES & MARKETING
SUBURBAN BUILDING & DEVELOPMENT
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
MULTI-FAMILY BUILDING & DEVELOPMENT
REMODELING
ASSOCIATES
EXCITING THINGS ARE HAPPENING AT BAGI
UPCOMING BAGI EVENTS
AUGUST 15, 2024 • 11am-6pm
August Golf Outing at Hickory Stick Golf Course
SEPTEMBER 12-29, 2024
2024 Centier Bank Home-A-Rama at Promontory in Zionsville Stay tuned for updates!
OCTOBER 16, 2024 • 11am-4pm
2024 October Chili Cookoff and Clay Pigeon Shooting at the Indiana Gun Club
NOVEMBER 7, 2024
2024 BAGI Bash at Primo’s
For more information or sponsorship opportunities please contact Barbara Zoderer at BarbaraZ@bagi.com or 317-236-6330.
ARE YOU SUBSCRIBED TO THE PUNCH LIST?
In the most recent episode, Steve Lains met with Lisa Myers, BAGI Board Member and Business Development at Indy Custom Stone; Tim Eckert, BAGI Board Member and Business Manager at Weber Concrete Construction; and Rick Cummings, Owner of CKV Finished Products, to discuss the best ways to network in BAGI.
Listen and subscribe today!
ANTHONY’S CHOPHOUSE:
A Taste of the World in the Heartland
From the seaside view of his hotel room in Morocco, Chef Aziz Mountassar felt the early beginnings of inspiration for the new menu.
by
“I was in Casablanca, my windows open to the beach, so that gave me some ideas.”
The result? This season’s menu at Anthony’s Chophouse. The seafood selections Executive Chef Aziz Mountassar has crafted alongside Chef du Cuisine Chad Matchen bring the world to Indianapolis.
Several dishes are inspired by Chef Mountassar’s Moroccan roots, including a Playa Risotto, which combines an array of shellfish in a mouthwatering Garlic Wine Tomato Sauce. Meanwhile, Chef Matchen’s favorite Asian flavors show through in dishes like the Katsu Sando, Tuna Poke, and Hawaiian Tuna.
“We always try to see where we can go, how crazy we can go with our creativity, and what types of dishes we can put together. That’s what makes [our menu] so special,” says Mountassar.
Through their combined influences, the kitchen at Anthony’s Chophouse is widening their seafood offerings and broadening the guests’ palettes while they’re at it.
“We’re not just cooking food, we’re teaching people how to understand food.”
Another inspiration from the beaches of Casablanca is their chef special, “Can You Sea Me”. With this open-ended menu item, the Anthony’s Chophouse kitchen will be able to experiment with new dishes based on the freshest seafood available.
and explain the ideas behind what
“It helped a lot for people to understand, “what’s Anthony’s Chophouse about?” he says.
“We’re going to keep rotating that dish, and most of the inspiration for that comes from seeing chefs who were fishing [in Morocco]. Right away they were coming up with the dishes, and selling it to the guests on the same day,” Mountassar says. “Why can’t we do that? I know we’re in the Midwest, but we do have some great vendors who can provide us with that product.”
Anthony’s Chophouse is also refreshing their cocktail menu for the summer. One of their two watermelon cocktails, the Thirst Trap, is worth recommending.
“It’s the kind of drink you can put an umbrella into and sit on the beach,” says Chef Mountassar, who would pair it with the sea scallops. “One has the mint, the other has the crispy fennel, so those flavors combine to give you more freshness.”
Anthony’s Chophouse is now serving lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Enjoy a taste of the new menu between meetings from the comfort of their balcony.
anthonyschophouse.com
Bailey Shelton / photos courtesy of Anthony’s Chophouse
Executive Chef Aziz Mountassar
CHEF MOUNTASSAR takes extra care to visit each table
his guests are eating.
G&G
CUSTOM HOMES:
The Important Stuff Behind the Walls
by Christy Heitger-Ewing / photos by 360 Tour Designs
The beauty of high-end finishes naturally draws the eyes of prospective homeowners, but it’s the high-quality “behind the scenes” products in the structure of your home that truly make a difference for years to come.
“I always tell people that what’s most important is what’s hidden behind the walls that you don’t see,” says Joe Garcia, owner of G&G Custom Homes. “I’m big into the structure of the home, and at this price point, more and more people want structural integrity.”
For example, Garcia uses 2x6 exterior wall construction rather than 2x4. As a result, the blow-in fiberglass insulation that he uses provides two additional inches of insulation. That, in turn, improves the home’s energy efficiency by providing a higher R value. Garcia also recommends using high-efficiency HVAC systems for improved air quality and Low-E (low-emissivity) windows to reduce UV and infrared light entering a home.
The trend toward large picture windows in modern homes makes efficiency especially important. A window wall can provide scenic views for the back of your home, but they also create a greenhouse effect that can leave parts of the home more exposed to variable temperatures.
“We want to make sure windows are as efficient as possible, but we also need to make sure that the HVAC system we install can handle it,” says Garcia. “You can have a house with windows facing a certain direction of the sun, but without the right HVAC system, the house will either be hot in the summer or cold in the winter.”
The direction of your floorplan and number of windows on sun-facing walls can dramatically change the size of HVAC necessary for your property. Experts like the team at G&G build these considerations into the design process, so that your new home is perfect from the day you move in.
“I always tell people that what’s most important is what’s hidden behind the walls that you don’t see.”
– JOE GARCIA Owner, G&G Custom Homes
“What’s the point of having a beautiful house with a dynamite view if it’s too hot to sit in the room with all the windows?” says Garcia.
It’s critical to hire a builder you can trust who knows all of the important things to incorporate. For instance, Garcia uses ZipWall to create a tighter structure on the exterior prior to covering it up with brick or siding. The seams get taped with this product, improving the R-value insulation barrier that protects the home.
“You’ve seen homes under construction with a house wrap,” says Garcia. “If it’s not done right, the paper flaps in the wind.”
The right lighting also helps elevate a home to the next level – not the decorative lighting above kitchen tables and vanities but the canned lighting in the ceiling that’s meant to blend in and disappear. Homeowners can purchase lighting options where the lighting color and intensity adjusts depending on the time of day. This can set the mood in the evenings, queuing homeowners that it’s almost time for bed, or time for work in the morning. It can also help to keep your home utilities low. The lights dim or brighten based on the natural light coming in.
Sometimes a homeowner will question why a custom home with similar features and square footage to a spec home costs more money. The answer always lies behind the walls. Increasingly, Garcia is finding that homeowners are eager to pay for these better quality products because it really does make a difference.
Many homeowners still want to upgrade their appliances, countertops, cabinets, and finishes, but they are equally as interested in ensuring the structural integrity of the home. These investments help to build a structure that will stand the test of time.
“I don’t skimp on the insulation, windows, furnace, or the AC unit,” says Garcia. “I’m only going to build nice, efficient structures that are going to last.”
To learn more about how to raise the “behind-the-scenes” quality of your home, visit ggcustomhomes.com.
STONE MART:
INNOVATIONS & ADVANCEMENTS IN QUARTZ
by Shari Held
When you see a beautiful piece of quartz, the last thing you’ll likely think about is how it was processed before it arrived at the showroom, but the clear quality of the product is due to the work already done on the material. It takes advanced technology to create quartz of the quality and beauty you’ll find at Stone Mart, a wholesale supplier of natural stone and engineered material.
One well-known quartz brand carried by Stone Mart is Quantra Quartz. The company, headquartered in India, uses quality raw materials to produce a manufactured material composed of up to 93% quartz.
“When you’re making an investment in your home,” says Kaelyn Van Camp, Marketing Manager for Stone Mart, “the reliability of the material is important.”
Quantra Quartz also uses patented Breton Technology in its ultramodern, automated plants to ensure the quartz is manufactured to precise standards and decrease the amount of waste. Using advanced technology in the design stage allows the material to be produced in an ever-increasing variety of patterns – veining that ranges from subtle and elegant to striking and dramatic. Thanks to these technological innovations and advancements, Quantra Quartz has more movement and depth of color
than ever before, giving it the appearance of natural stone.
“The more our industry continues to learn from and work with new technology to improve our processes, the more exciting new patterns can be made,” Van Camp says.
Stone Mart’s Jewel Quartz Collection consists mainly of Quantra’s Boutique and Magnifique collections. Colors range from soft whites, beiges, and grays to richer, darker colors such as Fontainebleau, a vivid blue.
“Our Jewel Quartz Collection captures the intricacies and grandeur of our galactic and worldly surroundings,” Van Camp says. “Almost anything you can envision, Quantra Quartz has got you covered.”
When you’re in the market for countertops or unique accent pieces, ask your fabricator or contractor about visiting the experts at Stone Mart to find the perfect quartz for your project.
Preventing Financial Losses Through SPEND MANAGEMENT
Here’s why you should be thinking about next April while you budget out July
by Bailey Shelton
From an outside perspective, the homebuilding industry in Central Indiana is experiencing profit at every turn. The state is short of about 30,000 homes, and the average cost of a new build is more than double what it was 8 years ago. But seasoned builders know with higher home prices comes the potential for bigger losses if costs and margins aren’t kept under control.
That’s where Jon Markee and his team at MyBuilderCPA shine brightest. As early as their initial client onboarding, the experts at MyBuilderCPA can start offering solutions to your business’ trickiest pain points.
“Even if you are building on speculation, you’re going to have a home buyer that’s only comparing your home to others in the area, nevermind what the materials might have cost. In their mind that’s what it’s going to be worth. And so if you don’t manage your costs properly, it’s really easy to build a house that costs more than what the market will pay,” says Markee, CEO of MyBuilderCPA.
Among home industry CPAs, spend management is the hot new service of the moment. Increased material costs and supply chain disruptions combine with a worker shortage to make balancing books seem more like a juggling act.
Although there’s space in the market for builders to grow their business over the next twenty years, that kind of long term sustained business only happens when builders plan for their future. Good spend management means fewer unexpected expenses during tax season, and more budget to reinvest in your company.
Some recommendations from a seasoned expert: your business should be using some form of expense management software. A few of the most popular options include Jobtrend, Adaptive, and Buildertrend.
A CPA can also help with understanding new agreements that come through your business. It’s important on projects to not only understand the upfront costs, but also who potentially foots the bill when unexpected expenses arise. For a fixed bid, the builder might be bearing the brunt of that cost, but for cost plus or other agreements, this might not be the case.
If you notice that your salary comes up short time and again regardless of markup, you might be missing some hidden expenses that are cutting into your bottom line. These issues, while serious, are commonplace.
Markee recommends assessing your recurring subscriptions and
“If you don’t manage your costs properly, it’s really easy to build a house that costs more than what the market will pay.”
– JON MARKEE CEO, MyBuilderCPA
canceling anything that you don’t use anymore.
Business owners might be signed up for duplicate services like Office and GSuite without even recognizing they’re being charged twice.
“I always attack the highest profit loss first,” says Markee. “People don’t usually come to us if there’s no room for improvement.”
Proper bookkeeping is essential to every business, but even the most confident home builder can fall prey to missed expenses and incorrect profit margins. Think about the goals you have for the next year of your business. Then, think about the next five years, and the next ten. What needs to happen financially
for you to get your business where you want it to be?
The benefits of proper spend management mean business owners have the power to choose how their business will invest in its own future. MyBuilderCPA works with business owners to provide the best advice possible. Their onboarding process involves a discussion about long term goals and current pain points. What’s working, and what’s not. They also audit your current records for any outstanding expenses.
To unlock the potential of your home building business, contact MyBuilderCPA.com for an initial consultation.
Must-Have SMART HOME INNOVATIONS
by Christy Heitger-Ewing
The smart home revolution isn’t stopping any time soon. The latest innovations in smart home technology are all about making your home more comfortable, convenient, and helpful. Explore some of the newest technology coming to a home near you sooner than you think.
ENERGY MANAGEMENT INNOVATIONS
Energy management is no longer a complex task. With a smart home, you can effortlessly control your home’s temperature and lighting for maximum comfort and efficiency. Smart window coverings adjust with the weather and daylight, ensuring a pleasant environment. Smart appliances, integrated with your home’s energy management system, work together to run more efficiently. Everything is connected. Making small adjustments to save energy add up to savings over time. The best part: it is all managed without you needing to lift a finger.
DECOR-FORWARD SMART HOME TECH YOU’LL LOVE
Forget clunky devices – the latest innovations are designed with style in mind. From lighting automation that creates the perfect ambiance to using fire features to accent a room, technology is as
stylish as it is innovative. Add smart home art, and your space becomes highly customizable with unique pieces to match your tastes and style. Not feeling it? You can switch up whenever you feel like it!
HEALTH-FOCUSED SMART HOME ADVANCEMENTS
Imagine a home that provides comfort and convenience and cares for your health. Automated homes can monitor carbon dioxide levels, light quality, and air filtration systems through sensors around your home. This data can be crucial for living a healthy life in today’s tightly sealed buildings. In the background, your home is balancing light, temperature, and air quality to maximize circadian rhythms.
The future is here, and it looks pretty smart. Look for energy management systems that save you money, beautiful smart home decor, and health tech that keeps you well – these smart home innovations will shape your everyday experiences.
LIGHT UP YOUR WORLD WITH
Ideas & Inspiration
by Christy Heitger-Ewing / photos by Dave Pluimer
There’s no better way to visualize your dream home than to physically compare each material side-by-side. When it’s time to tackle a remodeling project, some homeowners might have a very particular vision, while others might want to explore every possibility. ACo, a full-service design & remodeling business, has built their design gallery showroom to suit the needs of any project. Now with their expanded lighting selections, it’s easier than ever to plan for jobs big and small.
ACo works with individual homeowners as well as builders and contractors, who like to bring their clients into ACo’s design gallery showroom. There, they can see in person the variety of materials ACo offers in tile, flooring, cabinetry, and lighting. Homeowners can personally select their custom cabinetry. Different tile swatches are available in every shade and texture. The new custom lighting display showcases a variety of unique modern lighting fixtures from pendants to wall sconces.
“When people think of a wall sconce, they often envision something ornate or antique. But today you will find a much wider variety of styles such as a linear modern fixture that looks great alongside a bathroom mirror. A linear sconce can elongate the space providing aesthetic height as well as good task lighting,” says Keriann Logan, Communications Director at ACo. “We’ve also got some wall sconces with that more antique, deco style that look like a crystal ball on top of a muted gold fixture. That juxtaposition of modern and old-world elegance adds a cool vibe to a bar space.”
“This is so important because seeing it firsthand goes a long way towards alleviating some of that anxiety homeowners have when building or remodeling,” says Logan. “You can imagine getting custom cabinets and installing this beautiful tile and then realizing that the undertone doesn’t match.”
While lighting is ACo’s latest addition to their showroom, there is so much more on display to spark your design inspiration. If ACo doesn’t have something in their showroom but the item is available through one of their vendors, the ACo team can typically order a sample. For example, when it comes to custom cabinets, ACo can have a sample made for you of a custom color match on your chosen wood species. “It’s so helpful to see that sample in person, and compare it to your tile, countertop, or flooring selections,” says Logan, who encourages homeowners to always look at their selections side-by-side to be sure they create a cohesive design.
ACo recently expanded their Fishers showroom to make space for a wide variety of products and vendors, increasing their selection of LVP, hardwood, and high-end carpet. ACo can even create custom rugs and stair runners in shapes and sizes that you won’t be able to find in a standard mass-market rug.
“We have some stunning textured wool options that are perfect for creating custom rugs,” says Logan. “There’s a trend these days for layering with textures and natural materials, and custom wool rugs are a wonderful solution. We order the materials and then work with local craftsmen to make your custom piece.”
Working with a company like ACo, your options for customizing the details of your kitchen or bath remodel are nearly endless. From custom cabinetry to custom insets for cabinet doors, custom shelving, custom furniture style islands and vanities, and even custom flooring.
Trust the ACo team to help you with your project. With their expertise, talent, and knowledge, they can ease your worries throughout the process to ensure you love where you live.
ENDLESS OPTIONS
Looking for the perfect cabinets, flooring or lighting for your remodeling project?
The team at ACo can help you find exactly the right choice.
HER HOME DESIGN:
Designing to Live Longer & Live Better
by Christy Heitger-Ewing / photos by Structured Photography
With a new home comes the responsibility of investment beyond immediate comforts. With the high sticker price of property comes the expectation that your home will serve you and your family for generations to come.
Keianna Rae Harrison, Executive Director of design and remodeling operations at HER Home Design has noticed that her clients are generally investing more into their homes because more Americans are interested in holding onto their forever homes and building generational wealth.
“This added accessibility into the long-term housing market has our clients thinking about generational strategies and how to preserve and upgrade their homes with classic and timeless features designed to improve their quality of life as well as those who come to enjoy the home with them and those who may ultimately inherit it,” she says.
Through the years, home designers have noticed that homeowners are taking a greater interest in designing a house that meets their physical, mental, and emotional needs. The coronavirus pandemic only served to amplify the wellness movement.
“I believe COVID-19 pushed us to live better to live longer,” says Keianna Rae Harrison, executive director of design and remodeling operations at HER Home Design.
She has found that her clients care about a variety of things, from
fitness features to touchless kitchen faucets and antimicrobial bathroom faucets. They also are intrigued by smart technology, including smart water purifiers and remote temperature control sensors that purify the air, access controls like smart door locks, and security settings for kitchen and bath cabinetry.
“People want their homes designed to keep them healthy and safe,” says Harrison.
Some clients are focused on aging in place, so they ask for things like main floor bedrooms, designer grab bars in bathrooms, wider door openings in the home, and improved interior lighting. A good number of homeowners are asking for specialty spaces that enhance their quality of life – things like “secret hideaway” spaces under staircases or in closets so that kids have a fun retreat, or specialty relaxation rooms such as lounge areas, reading nooks, and dedicated bars.
Homeowners seem to be letting go of traditional interior design expectations that put the designer in the driver’s seat of their spaces.
“People have a better understanding of how they want to live in their homes,” says Harrison. “We help bring their ideas to life.”
To learn more about incorporating Wellness Design into your home, contact the team at HER Home Design today.
MORE THAN JUST A HOUSE According to Keianna Rae Harrison of HER Home Design, homeowners increasingly want a home that keeps them healthy, safe, and enhances their quality of life.
Touchless Faucet
In-drawer Lighting
STYLE SPOTLIGHT
LUSH BLOOMS OVERFLOW ON A WINDING PATH AND WARM TEA SERVED AMONG THE ROSES.
English Tea Garden
by Bailey Shelton
The decadent scenescapes of shows like Netflix’s Bridgerton have sparked a resurgence of the English Garden, a style trend that pairs beautifully with Modern Craftsman and Victorian homes.
English Garden landscaping is characterized by shapely shrubs, fragrant florals, and clearly defined paths. These gardens make it easy for homeowners to cut bouquets throughout the summer, and are also friendly to local bee and butterfly populations. To cultivate your own English garden landscaping, try incorporating any of these common perennials.
LAVENDER
Lavender is one of the most forgiving perennials you can plant in an Indiana garden. They’re drought resistant and seem to rise from the dead every spring with little to no maintenance.
BOXWOOD
Boxwood Shrubs are ideal for hardscaping and defined trimming. They hold their shape well and require little maintenance once established. It’s these characteristics that make them a classic favorite for landscapers. They can be planted inground or kept in pots.
CORAL NYMPH SAGE
This variety of salvia sprouts pale pink shoots that resemble tiny orchids. They grow as perennials and bloom in late summer.
ENGLISH ROSE
Shrub Roses can be fickle, but many think that the blooms and scent are well worth the added effort. Give room away from paths or train it to climb a wall or trellis. Plant them 6 to 8 weeks before the first frost so that the roots can establish before winter.
HYDRANGEAS
Another tried and true midwestern shrub helps to fill out the English Garden style. These woody shrubs can grow up to two feet every year, so be sure to set some long term expectations to avoid unpleasant pruning surprises down the road.
TRESSS AQUATECTURAL DESIGNS:
Taking the Plunge
INTO SMART PLUNGE POOLS & MOVING POOL FLOORS
by Christy Heitger-Ewing / photos by Adam Gibson Architectural Photography
There was a time when the decision to install a swimming pool on your property was pretty much made for you. If you didn’t have ample yard space for an in-ground pool, it was out of the question. Easements or property setbacks could also make the project impossible. If you had young children or pets, safety concerns would be top of mind. A couple exciting inventions from TRESSS have now made such concerns irrelevant.
Eight years ago, Andrew Heard and his wife, Cecilia Alvarez Heard, were looking to install a pool on their property but weren’t thrilled by their options – or lack thereof. They simply weren’t willing to risk their three young children falling into a pool. So Heard, a mechanical engineer of 25 years, invented the Aquatectural Pool Cover (a moving pool floor). This innovation allowed for pool owners to adjust the depth of their pool. Soon after, the couple founded the company TRESSS and began selling their innovative product.
View of Smart Plunge Pool with Aquatectural Pool Cover from above. The pools are pre-fabricated and can be installed very quickly.
FURNITURE/LAYOUT/STYLING: POLISH INTERIOR & ART DESIGN
TRESSS manufactures all of their products in Indianapolis. Over the last eight years, the business has grown considerably. With 85+ years of engineering experience among them, the TRESSS team knows their stuff. The technology used for the TRESSS Aquatectural Pool Cover is what Heard observed in the evolution of racecars he helped to engineer through the years. He uses a composite structure where the strength comes from the shape; it’s what provides the insulation value as well. This Aquatectural Pool Cover lends
“A
SMART PLUNGE POOL CAN BE INSTALLED VERY QUICKLY ONSITE, WHICH MEANS NOT HAVING SOMEONE IN YOUR BACKYARD FOR WEEKS OR MONTHS BUILDING A SWIMMING POOL.”
– ANDREW HEARD, TRESSS
itself to new swimming pool builds as well as their Smart Plunge Pools, which are becoming hugely popular among homeowners with limited space.
TRESSS’ Smart Plunge Pool is a pre-fabricated, pre-cut concrete pool that’s 16 by 7 ft wide, making it ideal for homeowners who don’t have much yard space or simply don’t want the hassle of maintaining a large pool. These high-end pools have porcelain tile as well as a stone wall interior and have a seamless design and aesthetic appeal.
“The pools are completely built within our factory, so you have all the
quality measures and benefits of being built off-site,” says Heard, noting that the Smart Plunge Pool is delivered on a truck and dropped into a hole in one’s yard. “It can be installed very quickly onsite, which means not having someone in your backyard for weeks or months building a swimming pool.”
These pools are low maintenance, and all the equipment is built into them, so once electricity and a water supply are connected, it’s ready to go.
The Smart Plunge Pool is controlled with a smart touchscreen panel control, with a mobile app option launching soon.
While the Smart Plunge Pool is compact, it’s large enough to have a swim jet system in it so homeowners can use it for exercise as a swimming treadmill. Plus, it has all of the advantages of the Aquatectural Pool Cover like the safety, elegance, flexibility of selectable depths, and year-round use. It’s also eco-conscious in that there’s no water evaporation, and less energy is consumed because it’s incredibly heat insulating. It offers special needs accessibility in that it can be
Smart Plunge Pool open to full depth
Smart Plunge Pool with Aquatectural Pool Cover fully raised
“YOU CAN DIP YOUR TOES INTO THREE OR FOUR INCHES OF WATER OR SUBMERGE YOURSELF FOR A 30-MINUTE SWIM WITH THE SWIM JETS.”
used like a lift to lower a swimmer into the pool.
“These pools are so popular because of their versatility,” says Heard. “You can dip your toes into three or four inches of water or submerge yourself for a 30-minute swim with the swim jets,” says Heard.
With the Aquatectural Pool Cover, you get your deck space back when the pool is not being used. And the solid deck surface can support the same load as any other residential deck so you can play on it, dance on it, ride your bike across it, store a grill on it – whatever you want.
“We love taking a Smart Plunge Pool and elevating it to the next level by incorporating the Aquatectural Pool Cover,” says Cecilia.
TRESSS recently installed a Smart Plunge Pool Aquatectural Pool Cover in a pool built by Modish Pools in Holliday Farms. The home was built by Gradison Design Build and offers a stunning view overlooking the fairway with interior design by Polish Interior & Art Design. Next up they are installing a Smart Plunge Pool in the historic Chatham Arch district,” says Cecilia.
“It’s a very small yard we are shoehorning it into,” says Heard.
Although some homeowners have access to a larger community pool, that doesn’t stop them from installing a Smart Plunge Pool.
“The neighborhood pool is great for kids to swim and splash around with their friends, but if you want something that provides a more
AQUATECTURAL POOL COVER
Smart Plunge Pool with Aquatectural Pool Cover lowered three to four inches
relaxed, intimate setting in the privacy of your own backyard, the Smart Plunge Pool is ideal,” says Heard.
If you are in search of an elegant, strong, safe architectural pool cover or would like to install a private Smart Plunge Pool on your property, contact TRESSS today. For more information, call owner Cecilia Alvarez Heard at (317) 652-1366 or message us on Instagram, @tresss.design.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
SMART PLUNGE POOL
Perfect for any space, the TRESSS prefabricated plunge pool is a self-contained system featuring the innovative TRESSS moving pool floor and thermal insulation [R-30], with swim jets and fountain options. The swimmable pool area measures 7’x16’, and the plunge pool is delivered as a complete unit without extensive construction or additional components.
The innovative TRESSS moving pool floor is an aquatectural cover that transforms your pool into a multi-functional area with the touch of a button, allowing you to adjust the water depth for a customized swimming experience to create a safe and controlled environment accessible for every family member, whether you like to paddle, wade, play, swim, or dive.
Scan the QR Code for more information about Tresss’ Aquatectural Pool Covers and Smart Plunge Pools.
Celebrate!
Join us to celebrate the July/August 2024 issue of Haven featuring Innovation in the Industry and hosted by TRESSS Aquatectural Designs. Take advantage of the opportunity to connect with top professionals in the home services industry of Greater Indianapolis, all while supporting the featured charity, Light for Levi Foundation. This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. RSVP is required.
Complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
RSVP REQUIRED Register at havenhome.me or scan the QR code
BUILD INDIANA ROOTS:
Where Did the Middle Go?
THE URGENT NEED FOR MISSING MIDDLE HOUSING
by Darcie Duranceau
Indiana’s reputation for affordability masks a hidden truth: beneath the surface lies a housing crisis that is silently squishing the state’s middle class. Although housing costs sit well below the national average of $495,100, very few new homes hit the market for less than $350,000, leaving around two-thirds of Hoosier households out of the conversation.
“Middle-product housing” falls between affordable housing and luxury housing in terms of price point and amenities. According to the Indiana Association of Realtors, in the past year, listings valued at over $350,000 have increased by 19%; meanwhile, middleproduct listings have virtually stayed the same.
Build Indiana Roots has formed a coalition of business groups and trade associations
to tackle the housing crisis facing Hoosiers. They begin by educating the community and lawmakers, advocating for new and improved building and housing policies, and promoting responsible building practices for the good of the community.
“If people would just build [middle housing], we’ll sell it.
I have zero doubts there,” says Kyle Morris, Realtor with Talk to Tucker. “You have different generations and demographics that are intertwined with and are impacting one another, and they don’t even know it.”
Changes in lifestyle, buying power, and education are shifting homebuyer interests. In June 2016, average home prices sat at $147,900 during what at the time was being called an “extreme sellers market”. Gen Z was just entering college.
Baby Boomers are looking
to downsize in retirement, but are finding there’s nowhere to downsize to. They are competing with first-time homebuyers, and each has different budgets and financing. While there’s been an uptick in 55+ community construction, these properties sell the moment they’re built.
“We don’t have the inventory to keep up with the demand,” says Morris, “I have millennials who are interested in duplexes, but the inventory isn’t there.”
The middle-product housing market is messy because materials are expensive, labor is expensive, and the demand isn’t visible. With so little inventory, the potential buyers are forced to sit back and wait, so we have no real insight of what that population really looks like.
“There are so many people sitting on the sidelines,” says Morris. “There is space in the
market for middle housing if someone would just step into it.”
For more information on achievable housing, visit buildindianaroots.com.
The middle-product housing market is messy because materials are expensive, labor is expensive, and the demand isn’t visible.
Indiana Roots
THE FIREPLACE CENTER OF INDIANAPOLIS:
FINDING THEIR Spark FIREPLACES AND CHIMNEYS IGNITED A PASSION IN THESE LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS
by Wendi Williams
Gary Smalling is a successful Journeyman mason with a thriving masonry chimney business he started back in 2011 with $300 and his own two hands. His wife, Jenny Smalling, has been his biggest supporter since the inception of the business, and officially joined the team in 2020. After many years in masonry, Gary’s work led him to a love affair with fireplaces and chimneys, and lit a fire under him to grow their existing business. So now Jenny knows a lot about fire, too.
In 2022, Gary and Jenny acquired The Fireplace Center of Indianapolis, an established local business burning bright since 1977. As one of the largest fireplace experts in the state, Gary and Jenny offer customers unparalleled expertise on fireplace safety, plus the most expansive selection of fireplace manufacturers and products in the state. Inside their showroom, customers can browse over 60 units, ensuring they pick exactly the right hearth for their home.
Of course, choosing the perfect fireplace is only the first step. But fortunately, Jenny
says at FCI, they walk customers through the entire journey, from fireplace selection to in-home consultation, and installation. And it really is as easy as 1-2-3.
Jenny says they understand that customers are facing a tough decision – and making a big investment – and they are committed to helping them find solutions and making the project as positive an experience as possible.
“We do the entire project from start to finish,” Jenny says, “inside and out, all with one contractor.” At FCI, customers will find a variety of fireplaces to suit any need, from gas to wood burning to pellet stoves to electric fireplaces.
Customers can also rest easy knowing that safety is the utmost priority at FCI. “The passion my husband started the business with,” says Jenny, “is in making sure that everything is done right and people can enjoy their fireplace safely with their family.”
To do that, Gary consistently pursues educational opportunities and carries numerous certifications, including one
in Fireplace Investigation Research and Education (F.I.R.E.) – making him the only professional to carry it in the state of Indiana. He’s also a board member for the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG), and encourages his employees to seek additional continuing education so that each is certified in their specialty.
After safety comes enjoyment, and Jenny says FCI’s Hearth Design Specialists can create stunning fireplace displays for any home on any budget. “We have multiple solutions,” she says. “Good, better, and best. We’ll meet your budget where you are.”
Davinci by Travis
FIREPLACES enhance your lifestyle and improve your home. Gary and Jenny Smalling, owners of The Fireplace Center of Indianapolis, offer customers unparalleled expertise in
When you browse FCI’s offerings – either in the showroom or on their interactive website – you’ll likely be overwhelmed by the vast selection. But FCI’s team of design professionals can help narrow down your needs and wants, and find the fireplace that’s perfect for you. You can shop according to style (traditional, transitional, or modern), or by fuel type, heat level, or fireplace location.
In today’s evolving landscape, you can also find the latest in fireplace advances and new technologies. You may decide that you want a fireplace that doesn’t heat at all and is only decorative, or that your biggest requirement is
remote operation. Perhaps you want a dazzling light show from your hearth, or you want a programmable thermostat for a fireplace that’s more sustainable and efficient.
Whatever you’re looking for, you’re likely to find it at FCI. But best of all, you aren’t just buying a fireplace when you shop FCI – you’re enhancing your lifestyle and improving your home, all while giving your family a place to gather, connect, and enjoy.
And that, says Jenny, is what fires their business… and their passion.
Learn more about FCI at indyfireplace.com, or visit their Indianapolis showroom.
FLATMADE CONCRETE CO.:
Breaking Ground
NEW INNOVATIONS IN CONCRETE COMPOSITION
by Carie McMichael
Many of the recent innovations in the concrete industry have been driven by a desire or mandate to improve sustainability. However, homeowners may be surprised to learn that some of the most impressive innovations in concrete relate to its composition–and more importantly, how it can strengthen their relationship with their home.
Recent integration with technology is also bringing concrete out of the stone age. We’re all familiar with smart devices, but did you know there is such a thing as smart concrete?
Developed at Indiana’s own Purdue University, smart concrete can actually detect structural weaknesses. Sensors embedded in the concrete during the pour send information about stress cracks and weaknesses through a smart phone app, so homeowners can check the strength of their home or structure with just a wave of their finger.
Professionals can even engineer concrete to fix itself. Self-healing concrete is laden with limestone-producing bacteria that actually repair structural weaknesses autonomously. Imagine the reduced anxiety for homeowners knowing that their foundation was poured
CONCRETE HAS COME A LONG WAY! Smart concrete is able to detect structural weaknesses through embedded sensors in the pour. And self-healing concrete is engineered to repair itself autonomously.
FLATMADE CONCRETE CO.
15290 Allisonville Road
Noblesville, IN 46060
317.446.5549
flatmadeconcrete.com
with self-healing concrete.
Ben Driskell, the owner and operator of FLATMADE CONCRETE CO., knows the makeup of concrete can make a monumental difference in a project.
“Nowadays, we have a lot more options as long as you know what you’re going to be working with that day,” says Driskell. FLATMADE’s knowledge in crafting concrete composition is a science combining new technologies and the experience of three generations of seasoned concrete professionals.
“We have mixtures to put into the concrete to slow it down, and speed it up without increasing the water to cement ratio. We have finishing aids and evaporation retarders to pretty much make the concrete do whatever we want.”
Tradesmen with diverse perspectives complement the latest advances in concrete. Ben Driskell says of his own crew, “I’d say that most of the guys I find are good with their hands. Typically if you’re good with your hands, you’re somewhat a problem solver. You think outside the box. So if you surround yourself with people like that, you find innovation to be a natural evolution in your work.”
M c COMB PELLA WINDOWS & DOORS / CHRISTOPHER SCOTT HOMES:
ROOM with a VIEW
KEY PARTNERSHIPS BRING THE HIGHEST QUALITY FINISHES TO NEW BUILDS
by Christy Heitger-Ewing / photos by Sarah Shields Photography and The Addison Group
The key design feature of midwestern homes comes with a few caveats. If a homeowner is wanting gorgeous picture windows from floor to ceiling, their builder will need to source the glass. Custom orders can drive prices up, but a relationship with key contractors can make all the difference.
At Christopher Scott Homes, they engage contractors who take pride in their role, treat teammates with respect, and collaborate to solve challenges throughout the construction process. One such partner is Pella, whom Carnell has collaborated with for over 22 years. McComb Pella provides the Pella Contemporary line windows for the home Christopher Scott Homes is building in Holliday Farms.
“Pella provided the ability to offer large, fixed panes of glass that did not require a custom order,” says Carnell. “Along with large door systems, this enabled the customer to take advantage of the magnificent views their lot afforded.”
Like most successful partnerships, the foundation of the relationship between Christopher Scott Homes and McComb Pella is honest and frequent communication.
“Maintaining an open line of communication between builder and client is crucial,” says Chris Carnell, President & Owner of Christopher Scott Homes. He’s been building custom homes for 27 years and strives to produce the highest quality workmanship while providing a transparent build process that allows for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
“Weber Concrete is proud to have worked with Christopher Scott Homes since they began building. Their ability to design and construct a high quality, one of a kind, unique home is obvious in every house they’ve done, just ask any customer, subcontractor or vendor working with them,” says Tim Eckert from Weber Concrete. “We highly recommend meeting with them when considering your custom home.”
Carnell’s career goal has always been to build the finest homes and provide the best building experience for his clients in the Indianapolis market.
“We hate hearing horror stories of a terrible build experience,” says Carnell. “We want everyone to have a great experience, whether it’s with Christopher Scott Homes or with another builder.”
Christopher Scott Homes takes advantage of today’s software that allows for a seamless transfer of information between the customer and all team members. And while it may sound simple, they pick up the phone and answer questions.
“We will always respond to a customer, whether present or past,” says Carnell.
Christopher Scott Homes is one of the few builders in the industry who understands and directs all aspects of home construction from the footings/foundation all the way to the installations of the most important finish details of a home.
“We have a passion for creativity and bringing unique projects to life while providing a clear and transparent path for our customers,” says Carnell, who, along with his team, strives to treat customers the way they would want to be treated. “That means being honest, responsive, and straightforward with both good and bad information. This approach has always allowed our customers to know we will be right there with them in the present and beyond.”
Connect with the team at McComb Pella and Christopher Scott Homes, and open the lines of communication today!
ASSOCIATED DRYWALL PARTNERS:
Three Decades of Excellence
Associated Drywall Partners is 30+ and Still Going Strong
by Wendi Williams
One of the first words that comes to mind with Associated Drywall Partners is “value.”
Words like, “teamwork,” “integrity,” “commitment,” and “excellence” are sure to follow.
These are the core values that have driven ADP successfully for more than three decades. Whatever they’re doing – it’s working. ADP planted its roots in Indiana in 1992, incorporated in 1994, and has now grown across 22 states.
ASSOCIATED DRYWALL PARTNERS
2920 N. Arlington Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46218
317.546.6605
drywallpartners.com
This established drywall contractor has performed unparalleled work in the residential, multi-family, commercial, hospitality, and retail spaces, and they aren’t planning to slow down anytime soon.
What sets ADP apart from competitors? Internally, it’s a strong work culture and employees who genuinely enjoy working together and share the same goal of growing the business and moving it forward. That’s according to Russ Mathes, a sales manager in the custom homes division.
Mathes also says that for customers, what makes ADP so unique is their commitment to
communication. “We’re not a fly-by-night drywall company,” he says. “We don’t come in, leave, and then you never hear from us again. Call us any time of the day, and you’ll get the service you need.”
Those services include drywall, of course, but also many others, like metal framing, insulation, paint, and additional interior specialties. ADP focuses almost exclusively on new construction, working with the top builders and developers in their service areas, creating top-of-the-line luxury homes, multifamily residences, upscale retail spaces, and much more.
ADP is proud to be a part of regional and national organizations like the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) and the Builders’ Association of Greater Indianapolis (BAGI), and has been recognized by leading industry groups across the country. With accolades like this, it’s no wonder ADP is going on more than 30 years as a legacy contractor in Indiana and beyond. Mathes agrees that the legacy is what keeps them going. “What sells the business?” he says. “Our history.”
Here’s to another 30 years, and much more.
THE ASSOCAITED DRYWALL PARTNERS TEAM
HOME & WILLOW DESIGN:
Craf ting COLLABORATION
by Christy Heitger-Ewing / photos by The Addison Group
Building or remodeling a house is an emotional process. As such, sometimes homeowners can become paralyzed by decision overwhelm.
“People are afraid of making a mistake, but they can’t always explain what they need,” says Stacy Stater, owner of Home & Willow Design. “My team speaks that language. We know how to ask the right questions to ensure that a homeowner is not disappointed.”
Whether you’re starting a new build, tackling a remodel, or diving into a rejuvenation project, hiring an interior designer ameliorates the process.
“We believe working with an interior designer is a great benefit to our homeowners because a designer can be an advocate for who’s involved from start to finish in the entire process,” says Carl McIntyre, President at Carrington Homes. “The final product always looks best when you begin with the end in mind, and a designer is crucial to this!”
Stater and her team listen intently to homeowners to ensure their vision comes to life. They also work with other businesses like California Closets for custom-designed closets/storage space and Drapery Street for modern window treatments.
“We’ve collaborated with Home & Willow on several occasions to create custom window treatments and know firsthand how talented their designers are at bringing their clients’ visions to life,” says Caryn O’Sullivan, owner of Drapery Street. “Their in-depth knowledge of the client helps us to create treatments that meet the goals of the space, both functionally and stylistically.”
Stater estimates that for a new home build, their team spends roughly 30-40 hours with a client so
“The final product always looks best when you begin with the end in mind, and a designer is crucial to this!”
– CARL McINTYRE President, Carrington Homes
they get to know them quite well.
“Outside of the client, we know what they’re looking for better than anyone else,” says Stater, who calls interior designers navigators of home projects.
“We’re not controlling, but we help keep them from making mistakes,” says Stater.
If you’re looking for someone to help navigate your next home build or home improvement project, contact the seasoned experts at Home & Willow Design today.
VIRGINIA TILE:
Style-Defining Textile
VIRGINIA TILE , A FAVORITE OF INDIANAPOLIS DESIGNERS AND BUILDERS, HAS OPENED THEIR NEW SHOWROOM DOORS
by Bailey Shelton
Although the space has been unofficially open to the public since January, the displays at Virginia Tile’s showroom on 96th street have only grown leading up to their Grand Opening in March. Now, the space offers design inspiration for home products big and small.
“We display in dealers all over the Indianapolis area, but in our showroom, we display the more customized designer lines that you won’t find in other places,” says Angie Allen, Showroom Manager. “I think designers like coming back again and again because there’s such a wide selection of products. I’ve not seen anyone use the same thing twice yet, which is kind of unreal.”
Designers and professionals across the industry have noticed home design trends leaning away from the typical resale value design choices and toward unique elements that personalize homes for their owners. Allen says there’s been an uptick in textured tile and unique shapes, and as always, a pop of color is a great way to make a design stand out.
“People are liking a lot of textured textiles. Softer travertine looks are coming back in; people want a stone look but they don’t want that big, heavy chiseled edge. People are wanting a softer, more Mediterranean look. There’s still a lot of white being used, but it’s white with a texture, or white with a shape, something with a little more character to it,” says Allen. “They want something that is gorgeous and that is more personal to them.”
The company strives to become a trusted and valuable member of the local home industry, a relationship that has already started to bloom. Part of what originally drew Virginia Tile to Indianapolis were partnerships with several local dealers. They knew, through those connections, that Indianapolis had an interest and a need for highquality tile and stone. Now six months later, it’s clear that Virginia Tile is here to stay.
Allen says, “We at Virginia Tile are just so glad that Indianapolis has really shown such a welcoming nature already. It’s nice knowing that we’ve been well-received by local designers and contractors. We’re able to bring on more and more products because Indianapolis needs and wants what we can provide for them.”
With several distributors in Central Indiana, Virginia Tile knew the Indianapolis community would welcome their business with open arms. The relationship they’ve started with builders and designers only continues to grow, with their interactive workspaces that are flexibly open to the community.
“We at Virginia Tile are just so glad that Indianapolis has really shown such a welcoming nature already. It’s nice knowing that we’ve been well-received by local designers and contractors.”
–ANGIE ALLEN Showroom Manager, Virgina Tile
“The biggest response we’ve gotten is that it’s just such a nice space for people to design and be in,” says Allen.
Virginia Tile’s Indianapolis showroom offers several workstations, seating areas, and two private meeting rooms available for open use. The meeting rooms have a television display and work table for anyone in the community to use as a space to get creative.
Designers and homeowners alike can get up close and personal with the latest luxury tile, and connect with experts for their unique custom project. Want an Indycar mosaic in your shower floor? They’ll connect you with an expert to design that in your space. Looking for large porcelain slab panels? The Virginia Tile showroom has even the biggest samples on display.
To get started on your custom project, or just browse the latest options, visit Virginia Tile at 4161 E. 96th St. The space is open Monday through Friday, 9a.m. to 5p.m.
haven
SCAN TO REGISTER!
CREATE. CONNECT. INSPIRE.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024
8AM - 5PM
FORUM EVENTS CENTER • FISHERS, IN
THE WOMEN BUILD IT CONFERENCE, HOSTED BY HAVEN MEDIA AND THE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF GREATER INDIANAPOLIS (BAGI), IS A ONE - DAY EVENT
THAT AIMS TO EMPOWER AND CONNECT WOMEN IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
JOIN US FOR THIS ALL - DAY CONFERENCE AND COCKTAIL RECEPTION FEATURING:
• KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
• BREAKOUT SESSIONS
PANEL DISCUSSIONS
• CAREER DEVELOPMENT
• CREATIVE WAYS TO CONNECT AND NETWORK
Precision Through Pixels
How Digital Printing is Revolutionizing Surface Design
Digitally printed surfaces are one of the latest trends in home interiors, ushering in a new era of creativity and customization. This breakthrough technology allows for realistic patterns, an array of colors, and beautiful aesthetics. This new material empowers homeowners to create spaces as unique and individual as they are.
by Carie McMichael MONT SURFACES:
“Digital printing technology has been commonly used
in
“For those homeowners who are seeking highly customized designs in engineered countertop materials, digitally printed surfaces are flexible and are well suited as an exciting alternative,” says Carol Payto, CMO at Mont Surfaces. “Digital printing technology has been commonly used in the tile and flooring industries and is now transforming the countertop industry.”
When creating digitally printed surfaces, the image is imprinted directly onto the substrate, or base material.
“It’s just like a tattoo,” says Kathleen Cannon, Senior Account Representative with Mont Surfaces. “The image is transferred onto a specific type of paper and then that paper is laid on top of the substrate.”
Once the design has been imprinted, the substrate is passed through an oven and the design is heat pressed onto the substrate. “So, heat is the catalyst for the image to get imposed onto the surface,” says Cannon. Keep in mind when choosing digitally printed
the tile and flooring industries and is now transforming the countertop industry.”
– CAROL PAYTO Mont Surfaces
surfaces, you will never need to compromise. In addition to their durability, they are easy to maintain, budget friendly and their high-end designer look is second to none.
Mont Surfaces has been a wholesale supplier of fine surface materials for over 35 years. They know digital print technology is a game-changer when it comes to a homeowner’s specific needs.
To learn more about the flexibility of digitally printed surfaces, contact Mont Surfaces’ team of experts. Learn even more at MontSurfaces.com.
COVER PARTY
March/April 2024
Hosted by Home Artisans of Indiana
photos by Adam Grubb Media
1. Party Guests
2. Katie Feley with YAP, Diana Daniely with Ferguson, Zach Brettnacher with YAP
3. Marianne Piazzi
4. Holiday Farms
5. Chris Mills with ML Talent Strategies/trueU
6. Haven Magazine
7. Party Guests, Katheleen Cannon with Mont Surfaces, Mia Farrell with ACo, Drake Branda with BAGI, Party Guest
8. Party Guests
9. Home Artisans of Indiana Members (some not pictured)
10. Dusten Breen, Delphine Jonquet, Joseph Pollard with Intelligent Living Solutions
11. Joey Tharp with Ferguson, Joseph Pollard with Intelligent Living Solutions, Party Guest, Kim Trees with ACo, Party Guest, Ashley Hurley with Custom Living
12. Shellie Coffing with AR Homes, Party Guest
13. Diana Daniely with Ferguson, Shellie Coffing with AR Homes, Tomorrow Pollard, Party Guests
14. Alex Tobey with Alcomy LLC
15. Dan Hayes with AR Homes, Diana Daniely with Ferguson, David Decker with ACo
16. Party Guest
17. Carlton Mills with Ductz
18. Mia Farrell with ACo and Drake Branda with BAGI
17.
18.
Hosted by Jenni Egger Designs
photos by Adam Grubb Media
1. Candy Hamilton with St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild, Maria Baer with The Baer Minimalist, Erin Gordon with Sherwin Williams
2. Jenni Egger with Jenni Egger Designs, Sofi Janazzo, and Alayna Frazee
3. Jana Musser and Julie Bouchez with First Financial Bank
4. Miranda Gray and Party Guest
5. Amy Kreutz with Thread Design Group and Jenni Egger with Jenni Egger Designs
6. May/June Cover of Haven Magazine
7. Party Guests
8. Miranda Gray and Party Guest
9. Tina Wiley, Jessica McCracken, Susan Rohr, Elizabeth Rice, Alayna Frazee, Christina Martin, and Jenni Egger
10. Adam Grubb with Adam Grubb Media
11. Party Guests and Jenni Egger with Jenni Egger Designs
12. Sofi Janazzo
13. Jonni Berkley, Josh Berkley, and Ryan Hannock with Drapery Street
14. Party Guests
15. Party Guests
16. Party Guests
17. Party Guest, Jenn Couch, and Jenni Egger with Jenni Egger Designs
15.
17.
APPLIANCES
directory of HOME SERVICES
If you would like to be included in this directory, please contact please contact our sales team at sales@adamgrubbmedia.com
ASSOCIATIONS
FERGUSON SHOWROOMS
Ferguson Can Help!
200 S Rangeline Road, Suite 101 Carmel, IN 46032
317.705.0794 fergusonshowrooms.com
ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY
ADAM GIBSON
ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Architectural Photography
317.345.1311 adamgibsonphoto.com
BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF GREATER INDIANAPOLIS
Promote. Educate. Network. 6510 Telecom Drive, Suite 185 Indianapolis, IN 46278 317.236.6330 bagi.com
BANKING
BUILD INDIANA ROOTS
Together We Grow Thriving, Sustainable Communities 6510 Telecom Dr., Suite 185 Indianapolis, IN 46278 BuildIndianaRoots.com
THE NATIONAL BANK OF INDIANAPOLIS
Elite Banking With Exceptional Service and Local Decision Making
317.261.9000 nbofi.com
CONCRETE
FLATMADE CONCRETE CO. Concrete Made Right 15290 Allisonville Road Noblesville, IN 46060
317.446.5549 flatmadeconcrete.com
AND GRANITE
Fine Kitchens and Granite Zionsville – 317.870.8011 Lafayette – 765.474.4900 Greenfield – 317.467.0710 sims-lohman.com
FIREPLACES
STONE MART
Unique Experience, Exquisite Materials
8215 Zionsville Road Indianapolis, IN 46268 317.991.4253 stonemartmarblegranite.com
Extraordinary Tile and Surface Possibilities 4161 96th St. Indianapolis, IN 46240 virginiatile.com
WINDOWS & DOORS
MCCOMB PELLA WINDOWS & DOORS / PELLA EXPERIENCE CENTER
Discover the Pella Difference 4705 E. 96th St., Suite 27 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.981.3720 pellabranch.com/indianapolis
To access this directory online, visit Haven’s website at havenhome.me, or scan the code.
Being thoughtful in building a home is about considering not just the aesthetics, but also the functionality. It’s about understanding the needs and desires of the people who will inhabit it. It’s evident in the layout, which flows intuitively and promotes both social interaction and moments of solitude. The result is a space that feels special and inviting... more than just a structure; it becomes a sanctuary, a place where memories are made and that you're proud to call home.
Come feel the Woodstock difference in Westfield’s Reserve on South neighborhood.
17129 SANDERS FARM CIRCLE
Open Saturdays & Sundays 12-4.
WoodstockCustomHomes.com
Listing luxury is best left to an agent with experience.
Listing a luxury home is not as easy as you would think. There are more expectations as well as more demands of the client and prospective buyers. It’s complicated to say the least. This segment of the real estate market is also very competitive among buyers, sellers and agents. With the premium costs of selling a home in this category, you want an agent who’s been there and has seen it all before. You want
an agent to represent your interests first and foremost as well as be available to calm you down when you need it the most. Someone with a logical cool head and the heart that works for you and your success.
Call Nicole today. She can get your home search started or help you get your current home sold. She knows the luxury market and will help you every step of the way.
Discover the Nicole Lyon advantage today. Thank you for the opportunity to partner with you!
