HOUSTON
JANUARY 2015
THE COMPLETE RESOURCE MAGAZINE FOR YOUR HOME
New Lifestyle Trends
Ways to Downsize Where People Are Moving
Pros Dish What’s In and What’s Out for the New Year A Budget-friendly Kitchen Makeover Homes of the Future ON THE COVER: Round Top Builders creates Texas Country custom homes that make their clients’ dreams of elegant country living a reality
ITALIAN FURNITURE AT CASTLE FURNITURE DESIGN CENTER
Fine accessories, arts and area rugs
W W W. C A S T L E F D C . C O M 3819 Fondren Rd. (Fondren & Westpark) • Houston, TX 77063 • (832) 201-1000 2
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JANUARY 2015
CONTENTS 32
34
8 14 18 24 32 56 60 62
Editor’s Note Calendar Before & After: Budget-friendly Kitchen Redo Project: Decorating with Books Product: Colorful Furniture Trends Tastemaker: Nancy Charbonneau Gardening: Planting Native Trees Pet of the Month: Annie
50 ON THE COVER: ROUND TOP BUILDERS creates a limited number of custom Texas country homes engineered to harmonize with their landscapes. This gives each project the attention to detail it deserves. See page 48 for more information.
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28 34 50
What’s In & Out for 2015 Baby Boomers Redefining Retirement Homes of the Future
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H O M E
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S T
H O U S T O N
F U R N I S H I N G S
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THE KITCHEN ISN’T WHAT IT USED TO BE NEITHER ARE WE.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Mitzi Beach got us thinking.
The lifestyles and preferences of today’s consumer have inspired us to reimagine the kitchen. With innovations like the first Hands-free Autofill water dispenser, the first dishwasher with 102 cleaning jets and a clean modern appearance, the GE kitchen is more intelligent, intuitive and beautiful than ever. l geappliances.com
ACCEPTANCE APPLIANCE CENTER, INC. Authorized As-Is Dealer 6765 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. W. • Suite 200 Houston, TX 77064 • 281-955-0861 www.acceptanceappliance.com
reimagining home
She’s an interior designer from Kansas City who recently conducted a continuing ed class at the Houston Design Center for local colleagues interested in knowing how to keep the older generation in their homes, either indefinitely or as long as possible. Mitzi often refers to what she calls the approaching silver tsunami; 71 million Americans will be 65 and older by 2030. Mitzi and another Houston professional, Beverly Vosko, talked to us and gave us plenty to think about. But, surprisingly, their tips and advice offer universal appeal – to people even decades younger. Maybe that’s why Beverly refers to herself as a Universal Design professional. You can read what they have to say on page 50. It’s great food for thought, as you prepare to buy, build or remodel. No matter what your age. Writer Marsha Canright introduces us to Boomers who have decided to downsize. Each seems
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to want a lifestyle equal to – but not necessarily the same as what they have always enjoyed. That story is on page 34. And what’s the New Year without a fun forecast of What’s In and What’s Out. Local professionals also sound out on that front. It’s all subjective, of course! We, at Houston House & Home, wish you the best in 2015. And we look forward to continuallyintroducing you to all types of products, designs – and the people who make it happen. Happy New Year! Susan Fox
Blue Thumb Inc., dba Houston House & Home ("HH&H"), is a news magazine with emphasis on interior design and remodeling. HH&H does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does HH&H or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication. HH&H has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has not verified claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. HH&H makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products. No reproduction is permitted without the written consent of the Publisher. Copyright 2015, all rights reserved. HH&H is distributed at most Houston area Kroger and HEB stores.
PUBLISHER ........................Mike Harrison, Ph.D. ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ........Susie Reisenbigler EDITOR ..............................................Susan Fox CONTRIBUTING WRITERS................Anne Breux, .............................................. Marsha Canright, ................................................Joetta Moulden, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS.................... ..........................Rob Rosenbaum, Janet Lenzen, ................................................Anthony Rathbun, ART DIRECTOR ............................Robert Coplin CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR......Tim Beeson SR. ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ........Frances Dowling ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES .................................... ............................Melissa McGinnis, David Tree PRINTING ........................................RR Donnelly P.O. Box 701038 • Houston, Texas 77270-1038 (713) 523-6523 • info@houseandhomeonline.com
Kitchen & Bath Remodeling - Flooring Countertops & Cabinets - Energy Efficient Windows & Doors - Room Expansions Painting & Refinish - Space Management Outdoor Kitchen/Bar/Fireplace - Decks & Patios - Landscaping - Swimming Pools
New Home Construction - Additions - Concrete/ Masonry - Land Grading & Excavations - Decorative Stamped/Stained Concrete - Pavers - Driveways Landscaping - Interior Decor Services - Civil & Geotechnical Engineering Consultation & Approvals Architectural Designs - Land Development Services Construction Management
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10 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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JANUARY 2015
A R T S
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E V E N T S
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M A R K E T S
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W O R K S H O P S
CALENDAR
Find inspiration for your home and landscape by attending one of three upcoming home and garden shows and a gardening seminar. (Photo courtesy of Earthcare Horticultural Services)
Showtime
Events
The 31st annual Bridal Extravaganza is January 10 & 11, at the George R. Brown Convention Center downtown. Approximately 395 vendors in 700 display showcases, sharing the latest on cakes, music, gowns, catering, honeymoons and more. Eleven formal fashion shows each day on New York-style runway. Tickets, $15, online or at show. Info: www.bridalextravaganzashow.com
The River Oaks Garden Club hosts the Sadie Gwin Blackburn Environmental Seminar on January 15, featuring Clavell Cox, who talks about “Working with Nature vs. Controlling Nature.” Cox is a LEED-accredited professional who has worked on a variety of landscaping and fine gardening projects. Coffee at 9:30 a.m., and the programs begins at 10 a.m. In the Brown Auditorium, 2503 Westheimer. Info: www.riveroaksgardenclub.org
The Katy Home and Garden Show is January 24 & 25, at the Merrell Center, 6301 Stadium Ln. More than 250 exhibitors. Renovation expert Chip Wade – host, designer and contractor on Elbow Room – give tips on how to customize and transform homes to suit your lifestyle. Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 pm., and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is free. Kids under 12 are free. Info: www.katyhomeandgardenshow.com The 5th annual Sugarland Home and Garden Show is January 24 & 25, at the Stafford Centre. Among the experts scheduled: HGTV’s Abby Vasek on design trends, and KTRH Radio host Randy Lemon on landscaping and gardening. Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Info: www.sugarlandhomeandgarden.com In February: The Lake Conroe Home and Garden Show takes place on the 14th and 15th. More than 200 exhibitors introduce attendees to products and information related to remodeling, new construction, decking, windows, landscaping and more. Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: www.lakeconroehomeandgarden.com 14 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Martini Madness . . . Bossa Nova Bash! The Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) hosts this fun event on January 22, from 7 pm. to 10 p.m. The chic cocktail fundraiser features one-of-a-kind glasses, bottomless martinis, sizzling snacks and a bigboard auction. This year, the party goes Brazillian, with live bossa nova and samba by Trio Forte. Purchase tickets online: www.crafthouston.org Brenham, Texas hosts its annual Uptown Swirl on January 17 in downtown Brenham from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Keepsake wine glasses get filled up with local and favorite wines – ready for sampling at various locations. For free visitor’s guide, call 800-509-1752. Tickets $35 online: www.downtownbrenham.com/swirl
Hien Lam Upholstery “Where quality, service and price make a difference” Phone: (713) 523-3416 Fax: (713) 523-8610 819 West Drew St. • Houston, TX 77006 www.hienlamupholstery.com • hlupholstery@yahoo.com
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BEFORE & AFTER
COUPLE KEEPS KITCHEN BUDGET MANAGEABLE BY PAINTING CABINETS THEMSELVES B Y J O E T TA M O U L D E N • P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y J A N E T L E N Z E N AFTER: Glazed cabinets, new granite counters, tile backsplash, paint, accessories and new stainless appliances add zip to this kitchen. BEFORE: The cabinets, Formica counters, white tile backsplash, paint, accessories and appliances were safe but boring. 18 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
When Joan Serice called me to make her dated kitchen function better, she already had been following my Before/After column in Houston House & Home. She knew I would work well with her. “I needed someone to help me narrow down all the choices I had seen,” she says. “The house was built in 1995, and storage had always been a nagging issue. One of the things
BEFORE
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BEFORE
we needed was a place for our trash can. Per your suggestion we took out the inside of one cabinet under the island (closest to the sink) and placed a roll-out trash can there,” she explains. Hurricane Ike from several years back definitely kickstarted the Serice’s remodeling process. After the hurricane, the couple hired Rick O Construction to put their house back together. It was then the couple decided to take the necessary steps to remodel their kitchen. Joan said she did not know what to expect but was very pleased with our first meeting. She loved receiving a list of homework assignments, mainly because she loves investigating new places to shop, and she loves the hunt -- if she knows where to look. “We did go with all of your appliance suggestions – like getting a counter-depth fridge and a dishwasher with hidden buttons, she says. I had offered the Serices the idea of getting butcher block counters as a cost-saving option, but they went with more expensive granite instead. Joan said she liked working with me, because I gave her sources, sketches and notes from our meeting with all the worker bees’ names, phone numbers and addresses.
AFTER: A simplified table top and a new wall clock were easy fixes for this tired breakfast room. BEFORE: The busy tabletop and wall clock, which was too small for the space, adversely affected this room's full potential. 20 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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The paint color the couple used on the walls is “RiverRock” by Ralph Lauren. Their top-of-the-line appliances are Kenmore, and the tile and faucet came from Home Depot or Lowes. The curtains were made by Leggets. To save additional money, Joan’s husband John stripped and sanded the oak cabinets and then stained them with a dark Minwax. He then painted them with an off white latex paint before applying a glaze on them. The most difficult task was the tile designs, says Joan. Friends and family said they love the appliances and the painting that John did on the cabinets. “I would recommend hiring a professional to help narrow down your choices,” she says. “Your suggestions helped us keep our budget in line.” AFTER: Joan's husband John stripped and sanded the oak cabinets and then stained them with a dark Minwax. He then painted them with an off-white latex paint and then glazed them.
TRADE SECRETS •HIRE A DECORATOR to look objectively at your space and make suggestions that will help you redecorate on your budget. • SOMETIMES THE MOST EFFECTIVE STRATEGY is to first rethink what’s already paid for.
CONSIGNMENTS FINE FURNISHINGS ESTATE FINDS • ANTIQUES 9,000 Square Foot Showroom Open 7 Days Per Week New Inventory Arrives Daily
5200 Louetta Road, Suite 138, Spring, Texas 77379 www.StillGoode.com • 281-370-4447
22 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Joetta Moulden offers home makeovers using your own home furnishings to create the home you’ve always dreamed of. Joetta believes your pieces collected through the years reflect your personality and can be artfully arranged. Her ability to focus on your personal style and not let her own preferences influence the design of your home makes her unique. See more makeovers on her Web site at www.shelterstyle.com, email her at joetta@shelterstyle.com or call 713-461-2063. If an initial appointment or referral is booked by January 31, a 10 percent first meeting discount will be given. Shelterstyle.com holds a "Pages of Happiness" rating and, for the fifth consecutive year, a “Super Service Award” presented to 5 percent of companies that achieve and maintain a superior rating on www.angieslist.com
COME ON IN.
SIT ANYWHERE. 52 Models available and on display. Have a seat in any of them to find your perfect fit. • Factory Direct • Acrylic Whirlpools and Air Baths • Shower Bases • Custom Cultured Marble Products • Granite Countertops Serving the building industry over 30 years
Houston Area Distributor for Finlandia Saunas
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www.marathonspaandbath.com
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PROJECT
DECORATING WITH BOOKS And Styling the Cabinets that Hold Them
Framed bookshelf by Mark Taylor Design Book nook courtesy of OohNaahn
24 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
If you don’t have as many books as needed to fill your shelving space, then consider it a perfect backdrop to display your treasures, keepsakes and interesting knick knacks. A bookcase is a personalized statement that can say volumes about who you are without any words being said. But it all can go awry without having a plan. Professional stylist and Houston decorator Joetta Moulden has arranged many a bookcase in her day and, as a result, has devised a formula that offers both balance and visual interest. Moulden suggests using a zigzag approach. “Place a large accessory, like a basket or plate on a stand at the upper far position of the top shelf. Then situate another large object on the opposite, or far right position on a nearby lower shelf. “Beneath that shelf, place a dense object, such as a box or a stack of books in the far left position, until you zigzag your way down the shelf,” she explains. Reverse the zigzag pattern on adjoining or flanking shelves. “I encourage mixing old and new objects together to keep the mix interesting,” she says. It has been her experience that clear glass accessories work better on a coffee table where the sun hits them than hidden up on a shelf. A collection – whether it be a group of old clocks or interesting pottery – takes on much more importance when it is all grouped together as opposed to being spread out, according to Moulden.
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Courtesy of Alison Withers
Courtesy of Nevver
“You can lean platters against the back wall of a cabinet with a small push pin that then can be hidden by placing something smaller in front of it. Strike a balance. She says you don’t want to have a cluttered look but you certainly don’t want it to look too spare.
Pulling a book off our own bookshelf . . .you might want to take a look at Farrow & Ball’s “Decorating
with Color” by Ros Byam Shaw with photography by Jan Baldwin. It’s filled with large photos depicting paint palettes suitable for classic, contemporary and country styles. European homes are featured
Courtesy of Farrow and Ball
within, everything from an Italian palazzo, a converted factory in Paris, the attic of an Amsterdam canal house, and a family home in Denmark – to mention some. The international paint company began in Dorset, England, in 1940, by a Mr. Farrow and Mr. Ball. Today, their hues still convey such quaint names as “Charlotte’s Locks” and “Mizzle.” Book cost: $45 at www.farrow-ball.com
From Farrow and Ball’s book, “Decorating with Color.” 26 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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What’s In & What’s Out for 2015
ABOVE: Sherwin Williams hopes to brighten 2015 with its Color of the Year selection, “Coral Reef.” BELOW: Company C’s Asters pillow in “Newport Red” is inspired by Pantone’s Color of the Year, “Marsala.”
LOCAL PROS SHARE THEIR OWN FORECASTS Everyone has his or her own idea of what’s cool and on trend for this New Year. We asked several Houston designers to share their thoughts on what we can expect to see. At least two nationally known paint companies kicked off 2015 anticipations by announcing their colors of the year. Pantone Color Institute’s color guru received mixed reviews when the company unveiled its favored hue. The it-color “Marsala” is an earthy wine shade -- far more subdued than last year’s “Radiant Orchid.” Local interior designer Katie Galliano, for one, said she wasn’t too sure if she was “onboard” with this color. Pantone said they elevated Marsala to Color of the Year, because while 2014’s Radiant Orchid encouraged creativity, this earthy tone “enriches the mind, body and soul.” Pantone also noted that Marsala emanates a certain sophistication and stylish tone; one that can translate easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors. Meanwhile, Sherwin Williams also announced its pick for 2015. Called “Coral Reef,” it is, say the company’s experts . . . “uplifting, vivacious and a bit floral, offering the perfect mélange of pink, orange and red.”
28 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Sherwin Williams thinks Coral Reef will allow our “creativity to blossom” this year.
What’s In: Color & florals, brass fixtures and hardware Dark kitchens (black or dark grey cabinets and countertops) Mid-century modern everything Lucite and white marble, animal hides and furs 18th Century antiques
What’s Out: Chevron patterns Granite All-white kitchens Reproduction painted furniture
Katie Galliano Katie Galliano Interiors 713.306.3539 Katiegalliano@gmail.com
What’s In: Textures, vivid color, cubic shapes, LED lights, natural materials, and functional goods
L et our decades of experience give your home an EDGE.
What’s Out: Bland combinations, uninteresting textures, and lack of juxtaposition, visual interest only
Kelly Gale Amen www.kga.net 713-206-5346
What’s In: Color! Especially blues & greens (teal & peacock blue) Out: Monochromatic, bland interiors Shine & gloss (throughout the home) -- polished chrome & nickel, lacquered walls & furniture
What’s Out: Oil-rubbed bronze anything In: Integrative technology for the home. Control the thermostat, alarm, the lighting, music, TV, etc. from your cell or iPad. Hidden outlets & charging stations for your devices in every room making technology for your lifestyle convenient.
New Year, New Look
Out: Tangle of extension cords & separate controls for everything! In: LED lighting, in the warmer temperatures ( looking more natural & also like halogen lighting). It's more environmentally & economically friendly. Out: Fluorescent lighting, which is bad for the environment & has been shown to negatively affect people. In: The return of glamour and warming up of modern interiors with color and shine and mixing in the deliberate, yet unexpected piece to add an individual touch. Out: Tired, shabby not chic, bland and Tuscan interiors.
Mary Wilson Live Beautifully www.livebeautifully.net
What's In: Marsala! The deep rich color of wine and the 2015 color of the year. We will see it in everything from nail polish, clothes, shoe and handbags. In the home rooms will pop with Marsala accents, walls and even leather sofas created in this beautiful color. What's Out: Cherry Red!
Experience makes all the difference. Over 3 decades of consistent quality, professional fabrication and installation. Expert service to the construction community, and added value to the homeowner. Granite I Natural Quartz I Green Materials Kitchen & Bath Countertops I Tubs I Remodeling
Exotic slabs in stock 281 351-7195
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What's In: Huber custom homes from design to decor - It's all about You! Your home should not just have “a look” but reflect your individuality and unique style. What's Out: Whole room furniture purchases from “big box” stores. What's In: Walls are BIG! Statement walls are in – wall graphics, color, large-formatted artwork and featured collections add so much visual interest at work or at home. What's Out: Traditional framed artwork.
Janus Lazaris Janus Design Group www.janusdesigngroup.com 713-666-1566
What’s In:
Lucite furniture makes a comeback. Shown is the Peekaboo clear console table from CB2.
Hunt Slonem “Bunnies” Julia B monogramed linens Wool draperies Steel and glass windows and doors Faux bois garden furniture
What’s Out: Framed poster art Paper napkins Tassels Leaded glass Teak
Lucas Eilers Design Associates www.lucaseilers.com 713.784.9423 Faux bois outdoor furniture is still on trend in 2015.
What’s In: The Atlas side table by AVRAM RUSU Studio features brushed brass with oak feet and a Calcutta Gold marble top. Available at Dering Hall online marketplace for great design. www.deringhall.com
Untreated or natural stone countertops and surfaces Vintage/art deco chandeliers Clean lines Modern/contemporary looks COLOR Wallpaper Mixing styles from different time periods -- Example: having a French country room with an art deco chandelier
What’s Out: All white rooms Coffee table books Rustic Ikat Granite counters/surfaces
Regina Gust Designs LLC Twins Design Christmas, Inc. 713-426-1166 www.reginagust.com 30 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Building a New Home? Be sure to have your builder include a beautiful glass block window made with real glass blocks for safety and security in your master bath www.houstonglassblock.com
Round Top Vintage Market
• Custom Wood Floors • Antique Wide Planks & Parquets • Hand-hewn, Burnished, Oil, and Wax Finishing • Beams, Furniture Slabs, Mantles
RW Taylor and Company Beautiful Hardwood Floors Since 1982 5814 Milwee St. • Building F • Houston, TX 77092 713-666-7883 office
Weekend Market open all year: Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. A quality venue featuring Antiques ~ Vintage ~ Collectibles ~ Art Indoor Dealers Spaces ~ Climate Controlled Over 12,000 Sq Ft www.roundtopvintagemarket.com Barbara Griffin: 281-731-5132 (text) 1235 North Hwy 237, Round Top, TX 78954 31
PRODUCT REVIEW
Hooker Mélange Greek Key console.
MT Company’s Dana Gibson sofa.
FURNITURE TRENDS High Point Market Report Points to Color
Banish the bland! When it comes to home decorating choices, color forecasters insist American consumers are ready to venture outside the neutral box in 2015. This is not good news for home furnishings stores awash in gray and beige. While consumers are still concerned about “color coordination” within their living spaces, in 2015, they will be ready and willing to experiment with not-so-subtle hues, according to the palette prognosticators. “Color forecasters perennially describe us as ‘more optimistic’ and ready to add more color to our homes,” says Jackie Hirschhaut, vice president of the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA). “However, whether you need a room with bright accents to lift your mood or a soothing, monochromatic room to calm and relax you, there are new fabrics and finishes for the home to meet your needs.” Trend setters in the world of apparel as well as those in home décor infused their fall 2014 introductions with red – the hue of power, passion, energy and emotion. In its “19 Key Trends” from fall shows, the independent fashion news Web site
32 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Fashionista declared that red had surpassed blue on New York’s runways. Likewise, at the fall High Point, N.C., home furnishings market, red was luminous in painted finishes, in upholstery fabrics and in decorative accents. “What began in spring as a softer coral color trend emerged (in the) fall as a full-on red revolution,” says Comer Wear, director of marketing for Century Furniture. Blues will remain a strong force in home fashion in the coming year, despite red’s resurgence. Again in lockstep with apparel trends, the dominant looks introduced at the fall home furnishings market were heavily influenced by denim. Holly Blalock, the vice president of marketing for C.R. Laine, says the trend is less about rugged fabric and more about inky blue hues and multi-toned textiles – like the color variations that come from stonewashing. Emerging from the sea of gray and taupe are warmer neutrals moving solidly into gold and bronze tones. These pair nicely with the iridescent metallics that remain strong in all sorts of
ABOVE: Hooker Furniture offers a charming English country manor style collection called Sanctuary. Ultra True Red dining windsor chairs pull up to a trestle table.
accents, from fringe, braid and nailhead trim on upholstery; to nickel, silver leaf, gold leaf and even brass in hardware and decorative accessories. In most home color forecasts for the coming year, there is one palette of happy and unexpected shades that lean a little toward the playful side. From Pantone, the global color institute that sets professional color standards for the design industries, that surprise palette is called “Serendipity.” It includes hot pink, bright chartreuse and “outgoing orange” among its shades and is described as “the coming together of unlikely designs and unexpected colors.” Several home furnishings companies ventured into these “serendipitous” waters in October, and adventurous consumers will be all the happier for their efforts in 2015. From a magenta wing back chair at American Leather to the lively hues and graphic designs of Dana Gibson upholstery for The MT Company, these designs will make shoppers smile and bring a delightful element to home environments.
The McCartney wingback in magenta by American Leather.
Based in High Point, N.C., the American Home Furnishings Alliance represents more than 200 leading furniture manufacturers and distributors, plus about 150 suppliers to the furniture industry worldwide.
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On-Site Custom Moulding & Planing Open 7:30-5:00 M-F; 8:30-12:00 Sat. www.houstonhardwoods.com 33
ROB ROSENBAUM
Rob Rosenbaum and Linda O’Neal (below left) hired Round Top Builders to construct the custom house (above) for them near Burton, TX.
Baby Boomers
Redefining Retirement COUPLES WHO ARE DOING IT THEIR WAY ROB ROSENBAUM
By Marsha Canright • Photography by Anthony Rathbun
34 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Moving from a three-story house in the Heights with four bedrooms and 4,000 square feet to a Metropolis loft with about half the space might seem like a squeeze. But for Linda O'Neal, 64, and Rob Rosenbaum, 60, it was not limiting. It set them free. “Where we were living did not reflect who we are or how we want to live,” Rosenbaum says. “We were only using two or three rooms. We didn't cook much and the extra bedrooms became storage,” he adds. Making the move helped them redefine who they are as a couple and to create something new together, O'Neal says. That was the first of three subsequent 'resizing' moves that eventually brought them to their ideal living arrangement.
Cabinets Designs I n c o r p o r a t e d
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Joe and Marcia Alexander downsized twice in the last six years and haved learned that the time to downsize is when you are still physically and financially able to make the transition.
They now have a small condominium in the city, and they built a two-bedroom farmhouse with wide porches on 20 acres in the Round Top area. They love the social nature of the community and eventually they will live here full-time. She is a surgical nurse and he is a chiropractor. They enjoy their work but like many baby boomers, they are looking ahead to retirement. More than half a million Houstonians are over age 60, according to the most recent U.S. Census, and thousands more are in their 50s. It's a large demographic that is now considering the merits of downsizing and opportunities for greater leisure time without the
36 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
looming responsibilities of the big house, the pool, and the yard. “The time to consider downsizing is when you are physically and financially strong,” says Geordie Hrdlicka, founder and president of Verde Wealth Group LLC in Houston. “It can simplify your life and it may reduce costs, but you need to approach carefully and consider the facts and the intangibles,” she says. Joe and Marcia Alexander, both in their 50s and still working, have progressively downsized for the past six years. Joe had an epiphany one month when he received a mulch bill for several thousand dollars. “It was not how we wanted to spend our money,” he says.
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While Marcia and Joe Alexander’s new home is smaller than previous ones, they were able make space for a study for Joe and a Pilates studio for Marcia. Their dog, Molly, prefers to take naps while Marcia works out.
Their first move was to a smaller house in The Woodlands but when their only son left for college in California, they made a bolder move into the city where they built a townhouse in Upper Kirby. While smaller than previous homes, there's room for a study for Joe who's an attorney and for an in-house studio for Marcia who is a Pilates instructor. They keep a guest room and a room for their son when he visits, and they use every bit of their space. “A drawback to downsizing is the loss of storage space, especially the kitchen pantry,” Marcia says. “I go to the store more often now, and I don't buy paper products in bulk,” she says. It's also important to limit the acquisition of possessions,” she adds.
38 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
“I tell Joe, you cannot have 14 new suits, because there is no place to put them.’” The most painful sacrifice in the move was Joe's baby grand piano. It did not fit in the new house. The benefits, however, have outweighed the losses. Joe's commute shrunk from 30 miles to a few blocks, and Marcia is able to teach Pilates at a neighborhood studio. “I didn't realize how stressful the daily commute was until I didn't have to do it anymore,” he says. Other benefits are a greatly reduced electric bill, no expensive homeowners associations, and lower property taxes. The tiny yard with tile and faux turf is used more than the gigantic yard at their earlier home.
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Interior designer Leona Rossy moved to a townhouse about half the size of her previous home. Her one-time bedroom armoire now houses the TV in the living room.
To compensate for a smaller space, Rossy applied some special touches to make her place feel more special, such as putting up grass cloth in the dining area. The eyecatching buffet is from Ethan Allen. She enjoys her morining coffee outside. Having an outdoor area to enjoy was a must.
“There are a number of empty nesters living in this area and it's very social,” he says. “We ride bicycles in the neighborhood and have dinner together at close-by restaurants.” Besides the cost savings, the social connections and the elimination of the commute, the biggest positive is the couple's ability to travel. 40 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
“We lock up, set the alarm and leave,” she says. Successful downsizing is all about careful planning and communication, Hrdlicka explains. “You want to make a change before health issues or external factors force a change,” she says. People, she says, are most likely to transition well if they are ready for a new purpose.
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Rossy hung a Thibaut-designed toile wallpaper in her bedroom to add personality. The white table was used in the living room of her last home. Sometimes, she says, you need to re-assign pieces to make them work.
Sometimes downsizing is a choice and sometimes, it isn't, says interior designer Leona Rossy, 67. She has helped many people move to smaller spaces; some who were following their dreams and others when their dreams were shattered. Regardless of the reason, what's important is to optimize the space and make it beautiful, says Rossy. “One day you're holding hands in the movies and the next day he wants a divorce. It happens,” she says. “Now she can't afford to keep the big house with the pool.” “I tell these women, 'don't worry about it.' If you're moving from 4,000 square feet to 1,500, so what? It's going to look fantastic,” Rossy says. Her principle recommendation is to hold tight to your treasures and let the rest go. “I tell them this is going to be your very own castle. Because I know, in time, they are going to love it,” she says. Rossy is completing a book on downsizing called “Lost, Found, and Dusted.”
Considerations: 1.Look at the costs associated with your current home and with the new place you would like to move. 42 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Consider utilities, maintenance and property taxes. As much as possible, estimate and compare living costs at both places. 2.Many people feel relieved as they simplify and rid themselves of extraneous items, but the process is difficult and can be painful. 3.Having a fresh start provides an opportunity to move to a like-minded community or to move closer to adult children and grandchildren. 4.You can choose a better location or at least a floor plan that better suits your lifestyle with future living circumstances in mind. “Moving is a major change. Some people are emotionally attached to their home especially if they have lived there for many years. The transition can be more detrimental than beneficial,” she says. Others may choose to keep a larger home to accommodate visiting grandchildren and family members, she says. “It's a process driven by each person's unique situation.”
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Tips on How to Lighten Your Load Start the new year with a clean sweep. Whether you are downsizing or not, editing your possessions is a good way to make personal living space more functional and beautiful. Interior designer Kara Childress – among the younger boomers herself – has experience in streamlining households but her most challenging project was moving her parents from their five-bedroom home in Dallas to a one-bedroom high rise in Houston. “The key to making this kind of change successful is scaling down with a curated eye and sharing collectibles with family and friends” she says. “Believe it or not, it feels good to edit,” she says. The hard part is getting started. Here's how to begin:
Rossy’s client, Judy Carter moved from the center of Houston to The Woodlands for the “new” easy lifestyle she and her husband desired.
1. Edit one room at a time, every drawer, every closet. It helps to have a friend or family member share in the process. 2. Create piles with categories like “keeper,” “give to family” members, “donate” and “trash.” When the keep pile starts growing larger than the others, take some time and reconsider. A rule of thumb: if you haven't used an item in a year, do you think you live without it? 3. Start with an easier area like the bathroom to toss out old beauty products and long-expired medications. If you have dated prescription medicines, a local pharmacist can recommend how best to dispose. Other starting points are the kitchen with its many tools or your clothes closet, where there is always room to simplify. 4. Remember to edit electronics. It's unlikely that you need a television, a DVD, a CD player, and other electronics when one television or computer is likely to cover all these uses. 5. Bring in the professionals. For Marcia and Joe Alexander using specialists to help with decluttering jump-started the process and helped move it along quickly. “It may seem like an extravagance but it saved us time and money. These are people who know how to get it done,” says Joe. 6. If you are downsizing and moving to a smaller place, measure the items you plan to take, and measure the space where the items will go. Overcrowding a small space with furniture intended for a different scale is a common mistake and one to avoid. Designer Leona Rossy empathizes with a client who loved a chaise lounge that wouldn't fit in the new smaller home. Ultimately, the woman got a storage unit. “Sometimes you aren't ready to let go and it may take a bit more time to adjust,” she says. Storage facilities ease the process, but they aren't the ultimate answer. Carter takes Mozart for a stroll along the East Shore in The Woodlands. 44 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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Master-planned communities are increasingly developing patio homes, townhomes and brownstones that appeal to those looking to downsize. Shown: East Shore in The Woodlands Town Center.
7. Use what you have. Rossy emphasizes that keeping your small treasures is paramount but she recommends that you take it a step further.” Take your mother's china out of the cupboard and use it, enjoy it,” she says. The Alexanders agree. They kept their favorite rugs, their artwork and special items collected in their travels around the world. Their tip for editing children's artwork: don't keep everything. Choose the top five or 10 pieces from each year and from these select a few to frame. It's much easier to protect and store a few of these priceless items. 8. Clearing out the stuff. Now that you've diligently defined what goes, it's time to make it disappear. Larger, expensive items may be sold on consignment or by using Craig's List, or local online services like Woodlands Online. Don't expect to re-coup the value of the item but there's some consolation in sending your sectional to a new home where it will be used and appreciated. The Alexanders had a knickknack night where they displayed the interesting items that they decided not to keep. Friends were invited to pick the items they wanted and take them home. Designer Leona Rossy suggests giving away special items or heirlooms to family and friends and to donate the rest. “Goodwill and the Salvation Army do important, wonderful work. It's great to support their efforts,” she adds. 46 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Resources: Squared Away is a company that does organization. Julie Hibbs is the owner. 713-523-2134 Spaceman Storage Solutions 713-688-8808, www.spacemanager.com California Closets 713-785-0112, www.californiaclosets.com Kara Childress, Inc. Interior designer 713-626-7948, www.karachildressinc.com Leona Rossy Interior designer www.LeonaRossyInteriors.net. Leona14u2nv@yahoo.com. Jodi McErlean Interior designer 832-928-9465 www.JodiJae.com. Geordie Hrdlicka, J.D., LL.M,CFP Verde Wealth Group 713-929-3250
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About the Front Cover: Round Top Home Builders’ owner Barney Reynolds has 30 years’ experience, always implementing a highly fine-tuned process that allows his clients to achieve their vision for building in the country. First, design and function must be considered. The use of each space is considered. How the rooms will function together and separately is important. Getting the most out of each space is especially necessary in downsizing. Design goals – whether it’s Texas country style, French country or any other – is carefully considered and planned. It is important that the home complements the land where it will be built. The specifications that go into the house are considered, from roof to floor and everything in between. The cost of every aspect of the house is discussed. There are no monetary surprises. Once the house is ready to build, the client has a clear understanding of the style, function, design elements and cost.
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48 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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Homes of the Future WHAT’S GOOD FOR THE OLDER GENERATION BENEFITS THE YOUNGER SET BY SUSAN FOX
“Boomers are rebels, and they aren’t accepting that ‘assisted living’ way of life,” says interior designer Mitzi Beach, referring to the generation of people born between 1947 and 1964. Baby Boomers do not see themselves as “old” or following the footsteps of their parents and grandparents – when it comes to the “inevitable.” Instead, they are carving out a plan to stay in their homes. Almost 90 percent of those 50 and up want that, says Beach. Their expectations about what a home should be – both now and later – also happen to offer great appeal to the younger set, too. “Value living is the message here,” says Beach. As a group either approaching or currently in retirement, Boomers are interested in transitioning to a home setting that caters to their personal enjoyment, as well as one flexible enough to accommodate future aging needs, according to Beach. Some of the smart, quality-of-life trends she says appeal to people of all ages include: 50 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
• Flexible living spaces and multi-purpose rooms • Pampering master suites • Designer kitchens with walk-in pantries with enough room to turn around in (if incapacitated) • Mudrooms with lockers • Interior atriums that invite in natural light • Tech-savvy homes (i.e. medical tracking systems to automatic thermostat settings) • One-story, ranch-style homes • Indoor-outdoor entertainment areas Certified Aging in Place – “CAP” – specialists, like Beach, say the ideal home for Boomers are those with hallways wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. But the thing is, she adds, wider hallways also appeal to those raising young children, and whose arms are often loaded with strollers, car seats and such. Narrow corridors, otherwise, make it difficult to maneuver. And what about the frequent traveler who is wrestling luggage down a narrow strip of walk space or maneuvering bags
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Above and Above Right: Poggenpohl kitchen cabinets are ergonomically designed. Above Design by Jennifer Fordham, Poggenpohl Dallas.
Pottery Barn modular locker system works well in a mudroom. 52 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
down stairs? Wider hallways prevent frustration. Barrier-free elements, such as no-step entries and one-story homes certainly reduce worry about falling among older people. But, a ski accident or a running injury can put younger people on crutches and stranded on the first floor of a multifloor home, too. “We spend 80 percent of our time in 20 percent of our spaces. Where do you spend most of your time?” asks Beach. “Wherever that is, is where you should focus on getting the best (materials, furnishings) that you can afford.” Kitchens, often called the “heart” of the home, are an important space for most people. Ergonomically designed kitchens reduce physical stress and ensure usability, whenever needed by whomever. Their designs benefit people with back or shoulder injuries, or a visiting older relative with limited range. For example, envision cabinets that with a press of a button lower to level of the person. Pull-out drawers and pop-up appliance counters will continue to appeal, since they help reduce back stain. Beach advises either omitting upper shelves or installing ones within easy reach. “Who uses those really high shelves anyway? They just make us all more vulnerable to accidents,” she says. “The space under the sink has been a no-man’s land,” says Beach. It offers better use for extra shelving space or a dishwasher drawer. Builders typically do not give enough allowances for lighting. Beach advises negotiating a higher allotment, or subsidize the given amount. “Lighting is critical, especially for older people,” she says. Multi-generational families living under the same roof are becoming more and more common. Children are returning home, or parents are moving in with their children, according to Beach. No one can anticipate when or if that will happen. When building or remodeling, it is better to plan and design wisely now. Mitzi Beach is an educator, author and interior designer located in Kansas City, Kansas. She is a frequent lecturer at the Houston Design Center. Her book: “Boomer Smarts Boomer Power: Six Steps to Living Your Best for the Rest of Your Life,” is available through Amazon. www.mitizbeach.com
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The marriage of Nancy and Dave Charbonneau’s talents have resulted in a Woodlands-based business known for its highquality fabrics, trimming and design work. Before opening Woodlands Fabrics and Interiors in 1999, Nancy and Dave were living in Atlanta. She owned a design business, and he found success in another business and marketing arena. Today, they oversee the 23 employees who are part of their thriving passion.
Charbonneau by a custom bed she designed; pillows by Ann Gish.
How is it different than your competitors? There are several factors that make us different from our competition. From the inception of Woodlands Fabrics and Interiors, our in-house drapery workroom has been an integral part of the business that has set us apart from all of our competition. Having the ability to manufacture and produce high-quality soft goods in-house has been imperative. Our state-of-the-art workroom and production facility makes our design business a standout operational. Lastly, we manufacture a good portion of our drapery hardware at our production facility. We have experts in drapery hardware at that location to help our clients. Do you specialize in any type of look or product? We specialize in custom products for the home. A good and reciprocal connection between designer and client is necessary for a project to be successful. We have designers who specialize in traditional, transitional, Old World, contemporary, French country, over the top and practical. Tell me about the Charpell Luxury Interiors? It is a division for luxury, very high-end projects that I work in with another independent designer, Wendy Capell. We have completed many beautiful projects together including four luxury homes in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, in addition to homes in the Houston Heights and in The Woodlands, TX. Is your husband involved in the business? My husband, Dave, is the CEO of Woodlands Fabrics & Interiors. He also runs the drapery hardware division of our business, Designers Hardware. How did you become interested in interior design? I actually went to college originally to study fashion design. After having to take some interior design courses, I decided the latter was my passion. I grew up with a do-it-yourself father who built the house we lived in and remodeled every inch of it, over the years. My mother was an avid sewer with an amazing sewing room in our basement. I grew up with a hammer and a drill in my hands along with a sewing machine by my side. Interior design became the obvious choice for me.
Embrodiered linen bedset by Legacy Linens. 56 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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3177 Fondren Rd. • Houston TX 77063 713.914.9663 / 713.532.6888 • 713.782.7710 Fax Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-5pm • Sat. by Appt. 57
What are the “ingredients” to creating a comfortable and pretty bedroom? The most important ingredient is quality. No clutter, no work items, simple but beautiful accessories, sumptuous textiles, light control for the windows, soft lighting, soothing music, comfortable but beautiful furnishings, and essential oil aromas. What is the biggest bang for the buck when it comes to decorating the bedroom? You get the most from applying a soothing paint color to the bedroom. I believe the colors need to exude peace. There is a wide range throughout the color spectrum of very peaceful colors. What trends do you see for 2015? The world of design is an exciting place right now. We made it through some interesting times since 2008, with the economy impacting so much of our world. Not only were our clients impacted, but our vendors have had huge transitions through the tough times. Vitality is finally coming back, and I think this will impact design in 2015. I believe details, pattern, and rich textures and colors will be back. Dreary and dull is out; vibrancy and vitality is in! A custom bed designed, from top to bottom, for a Woodlands client.
It seems like bedrooms are sometimes the last on the “to-do” list, why do you think that is? Why is it important to make this space a personal retreat? We all want our homes to be beautiful for when guests visit. The bedroom is an easy room to put off, because it is separate from the rest of the house . . . easy to close off. It is important to have our bedrooms soothing, organized and beautiful -- for our well being, rest and peace of mind. If there were one or two things people can do to update or spruce up their bedrooms, what would it be? Address the television; that’s a good place to start. Don’t have it be the focal point. I love putting a flat screen TV behind mirrored glass and a frame so that when it is off, it is a pretty mirror. Window coverings are usually are a dominant feature in the room. There are so many updated options for window coverings, which can really add a decorative punch to a room. Of course, paint is always a great easy way to update, and we are also using more and more wallpaper in the bedroom. Do you favor certain types of bedding over others? Bedding is a very personal choice, so I always have extensive conversations with my clients to understand their preferences. Does the client want a cozy bed, a drop dead gorgeous bed, a pet and kid friendly bed, or a completely washable bed? Do they love pillows or prefer to keep them simple? We have many options for ready made, orderable and completely custom bedding made in our own workroom that is truly one of a kind. My favorite fiber to use in bedding is bamboo. Bamboo is an amazing fiber that is organically grown and is often combined with cotton. It’s naturally soft, light and strong, and is more sustainable than most other fibers since the bamboo plant grows so quickly. It doesn’t need pesticides and herbicides to grow successfully so it’s a nicer fabric to have next to the skin. There are lots of great washable velvets and silks for the top of the bed that I love and, for me, the pillows are the frosting on the cake!
What can a design firm do for a client that the client otherwise can’t obtain or achieve? Working with a design firm enables you to create a workable plan, a realistic budget and timeline. Having an organized plan ultimately saves the client time and money, while having spectacular results in the meantime! What could be better? Who or what influences you as a designer? Art influences me tremendously. I can get inspiration for an entire project from one piece of art. My clients also influence me, as my top priority is to be a blessing in people’s lives by helping them achieve an interior space that makes them feel happy and at peace. My designs are not about me, but about my client. I glean inspiration from them from their family dynamic, their personal preferences, and the important pieces that need to stay in their home.
Getting Personal What is your personal design style? I am very eclectic. I love things that don’t match, that look fabulously unexpected. I love to add transitional pieces to a traditional interior to make it pop. Do you stick with a look or change it out? I love change. I change things out frequently! I grew up with a grandmother who rearranged her furniture once a month, and I got that gene from her! What do you love and can’t do without? I cannot live without great fabrics. They are essential to my existence! Every great interior has fabulous fabric in it! Do you have pets, children? I have a great husband, two teen-aged girls, two dogs and a cat. I strive for my home to be a place where they all want to be and have it be beautiful but also functional – the necessities needed for a happy and peaceful life.
Woodlands Fabrics and Interiors is located at 473 Sawdust Rd. in Spring, TX (The Woodlands) Contact: 281-419-0419 or www.woodlandsfabrics.com 58 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
GARDENING
Houston’s Arbor Day is This Month! It’s a Great Time to Plant a Native Tree
BY JOE BLANTON
Redbud Tree. (Photo by Hoodedwarbler12/Wikipedia)
Ironwood tree flowers
T
National Arbor Day is now observed on the last Friday in April, but many cities implement locally recognized Arbor Days to reflect the best tree planting weather for their region. The result: celebrations in the south start as early as November while some northern locations delay until May. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center at 4501 Woodway Drive is holding its annual Arbor Day open house on Saturday, January 24, from 10 am to 2 pm to promote all things trees. In addition to papermaking crafts and free tree seedlings, a selection of hardy native trees will be available for sale for planting in your own yard:
he origin of National Arbor Day stretches back to April 10, 1872, when Nebraska newspaper editor J. Sterling Morton organized the first mass tree planting through the local State Board of Agriculture. Over one million seedlings were planted on that day by Nebraska farmers who knew the value of trees: windbreaks to keep tilled soil in place; fuel and building materials; and shade from the hot sun. Continuing research by foresters, ecologists and public health officials reveal that trees benefit us in many more ways, some we cannot see directly. One acre of trees planted in an urban setting can:
• Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) • Convert all the carbon dioxide emitted by your car into sugar via photosynthesis
• Mexican Plum (Prunus mexicana)
• Improve air quality by absorbing smog particulates onto its leaves
• Parsley Mayhaw (Crataegus marshalii)
• Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) • White Oak (Quercus alba) • Swamp Chestnut Oak (Quercus michauxii)
• Reduce erosion and water pollution with its roots by intercepting rainwater and promoting infiltration • Shorten depression, anxiety and hospital stays through their natural beauty
• Red Bay (Persea borbonia) • Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) • Mayhaw (Crataegus opaca) • Common Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) • Ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana)
• Produce enough oxygen to sustain 18 people for life
• Roughleaf Dogwood (Cornus drummondii)
Joe Blanton, Adult Programs Director at Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, 4501 Woodway Dr., www.houstonarboretum.org 60 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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540 W. 19th St. • 713.868.2368 • www.gensantiques.com 62 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
The Houston SPCA, 900 Portway Drive, is open seven days a week, Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., to make choosing the adoption option as easy as possible!
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Free estimates Residential & Commercial 8125 McGee Ln • Houston, TX 77071 713-988-4200 • www.agwelding.com 63
64 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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66 house& home | January 2015 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
10 Windows Installed JUST $3750 Up to 96UI Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at time of estimate. Expires 3/15/15
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