Houston House & Home Magazine March 2010 Issue

H O U S T O N

THE COMPLETE RESOURCE MAGAZINE FOR YOUR HOME

M A R C H

2 0 1 0

Inspired Renovation Clever design adds space yet preserves cottage charm in Southgate

SPRING CLEANING

BUILDING A BETTER POOL

GREAT IDEAS FOR GETTING IT DONE

A/C CHECK UP

SPECIAL INSERT:

2010 RESOURCE DIRECTORY

A LISTING OF HOUSTON’S LEADING HOME AND GARDEN IMPROVEMENT PROFESSIONALS

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For 28 years, Spring Carpets has been one of the largest “stocking” suppliers of carpet, laminate and hardwood flooring in Southeast Texas.

Come by and see our large selection and compare our prices. Why us? We warehouse a large portion of flooring products. We offer next day installation with our very own installation crews. We offer discount prices and free estimates. Call or write us today for your FREE quote.

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contents

departments

8 Editor’s Note 12 Around Town 14 DIY Decorating:

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 | Vol. 15 Issue 3

features

18

A Clean Sweep

38

Renovation Inspiration

Kitchen Upgrade

A condo kitchen goes from drab to fab with simple touches.

24 Handbook:

Pool Your Assets Design pros help you create the ideal oasis.

38

50

60 Pet of the Month: Bongo 62 Exterior Design

Smart planning and the right supplies can make your spring cleaning a breeze.

A thoughtful update for a Southgate cottage saves its historic soul.

Rice Design Alliance Home Tour

Explore eight inspiring homes.

On the Cover A major addition and renovation of Ronald and Cindy Baur’s 1938 cottage beautifully blends the old with the new. Tour the home March 20 and 21 in Southgate.

Photography by Eric Hester

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50

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editor’s note

I

n my first editor’s note for Houston House & Home I’ll confess I always turn the calendar from February to March with a sigh of relief that the coldest months are behind us, but the sigh soon gives way to smiling anticipation of spring. Given the challenges of the past year and the utter wintery-ness of the previous season in Houston, Mother Nature’s cheerful gifts seem even more precious than usual.

I pause to turn my face towards the sun’s rays and give thanks for a blue sky day. Later, I take note of those first emerging green leaves, even if they are mounds of oxalis in my lawn, they are an undeniable sign of winter’s retreat and spring’s joyful emergence. Though many see them as dreaded weeds, I consider those clover-shaped leaves to be door No. 1 of the naturally occurring advent calendar of springtime.

The coming weeks open more tiny doors on the calendar: a butterfly flying solo, leaves budding on the bare twigs of dogwoods, the daring fuchsia dots emerging on redbud branches. And so it goes. These subtle signs of spring remind us that there is life after the dreary cementgrey days of winter. A chorus of color urges us to March forward.

The Rice Design Alliance

PUBLISHER ....................Mike Harrison, Ph.D.

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ......Susie Reisenbigler EDITOR........................................Sandra Cook CONTRIBUTING WRITERS .............................. ......Holly Beretto, Debi Bryant, Joetta Moulden ART DIRECTOR ..........................Robert Coplin CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR ..Tim Beeson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ............ Eric Hester, Paul Hester, Janet Lenzen SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ..............................................Frances Dowling ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ....................................................Lisa Kindred INSIDE SALES ....................Kim Schwenk Tees PRINTING ..........................DROR International

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Architecture Tour is a local rite of spring, set for March 20-21 and this year’s tour is Southgate: An Urban Oasis. Located near Rice University, the Southgate neighborhood was chosen for its remarkable achievements in merging modern life with a charming 75-year-old neighborhood.

The house we have featured is one of the eight homes on the Southgate tour. Writer Holly Beretto reveals how the homeowners and architects balanced the desire to preserve historic character with the need for more space and functionality. Read more about the home and the tour starting on page 50.

I am honored to take the editor’s chair here at House & Home. Linda Barth has been a mentor, colleague and friend in this industry for more than 15 years. Perhaps more importantly, Linda is a kindred spirit. I hope to share with you what I have learned from her as well as my own inspired ideas each month.

I see spring’s arrival a sign of good things to come. So put on your marching shoes, venture outdoors and witness the season’s sublime unfolding.

Sandra Cook, Editor HOUSTON

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 2010, all rights reserved. Subscriptions available for home delivery at a cost of $25 per year.

P.O. Box 701038 Houston, Texas 77270-1038 (713) 523-6523

What treasures will you find inside our tents?

When mapping out your destinations in Round Top this spring, make sure to see the Arbor Antiques Show. This stand out show featuring 12 acres of crisp white tents will celebrate its 25th season this April. With an established reputation built on quality, diversity, and knowledgeable dealers, you will be delighted with the best of the best from around the globe. Already well known for fine European and American antique furniture and linens, American primitives and Native American Jewelry; this show is fast building a reputation for its contemporary fine art and artists as well.

The Arbor Antiques Show is the place to find what you’re looking for.

OPEN DAILY 9 AM TO 6 PM, MARCH 26-APRIL 3

Join us Tueday, March 30 from 6-8 pm for Wine, Cheese and Late Hours Shopping 1503 N HIGHWAY 237

one mile north of Tound Top Square and six miles south of Hwy 290 FREE ADMISSION • FEE PARKING • GLASS GRINDING SERVICE

Air-Conditioned Comfort Stations

www.arborantiques.com • curtisann@arborantiques.com 888-233-5414 or 979-249-5387

2425 Broad Street • Houston, TX 77087 713.645.6611 • www.gulfbasco.com 10

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around town March 2010

Bayou Bend and Rienzi open their gates and doors for gardening and decorative demos during their Spring Home & Garden Days March 12-13.

HomeTours Venture inside One Park Place, the newly completed luxury high rise at Discovery Green to view apartments decked out by top Houston interior designers for Redesigning Downtown: A Style Competition at One Park Place. Tour three uniquely designed units and vote for your favorite at a cocktail party on March 10, $20 donation requested. You can also vote on tours available now through May 2 for a $10 suggested donation to benefit Discovery Green. Information: 713-868-5933, www.oneparkplacehouston.com.

Antiques Shows Old is good. Just ask any member of HADA, the Houston Antiques Dealers Association. HADA’s annual Spring Antiques Show & Sale happens this month in downtown Houston. Now in its

its success, today more than 20 different shows descend upon the quaint country hamlet and have spread include the towns in a 10-mile radius of Round Top. The collection of shows is so vast that many refer to it simply as "Round Top." Venues range from old dance halls to football field-size tents -- even the most dedicated shopper cannot possibly see everything in one day.

The entire event goes beyond the traditional sense of a flea market and focuses on antiques and “near-tiques.” Exhibitors come from all over the United States, Canada, Mexico and Europe with items as varied as old tools, architectural pieces, furniture, collectibles, artwork, fine china, jewelry and silver. Most of the shows are located north and south of Round Top along Highway 237. The spectrum of shows starts as early as March 20 and runs through April 4. Information: www.roundtop.org, 888.368.4783.

46th year, the HADA spring show holds the distinction of the oldest antiques show in the country, drawing more than 150 prominent dealers from around the world since1964. New features at this year’s event include an “Ask a designer” booth, offered by local ASID members. The HADA Web site features an online request for scheduling consultations. The Spring Show takes place March 5-7 at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $10, discount coupon available online. Information: www.hadaantiques.com.

Twice a year Round Top, Texas hosts one of the nation's largest antique events. The show started in 1967 with 22 dealers at the Round Top Rifle Hall. The Original Round Top Antiques Fair is still the first full weekend in April and October. Because of

The Spring Home and Garden Show at The Woodlands, March 27-28, features 200 professionals and numerous experts including Karen Bussen, author of Simple Stunning Home Entertaining.

Home Shows

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On the north side of the city, The Eighth Annual Spring Home and Garden Show at The Woodlands brings together 200 professionals and features experts from around the country. Featured experts include Karen Bussen, author of Simple Stunning Home Entertaining, who offers green garden party tips. Additional special guests include Clive Berkman, Kathy Huber, Randy Lemmon, Brenda Buest Smith and more. The show takes place March 27-28 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, Saturday 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 28 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Admission $9 for adults, $7 for seniors and free for children under 12. Discount coupon online. Information: www.WoodlandsShows.com.

Events

A highlight of the twice-a-year Round Top antiques extravaganza is the Marburger Farm Antique Show with 400 vendors top-quality dealers from all over the U.S. housed in 12 enormous tents and nine unique historic structures. Marburger’s 43 acres offer merchandise gathered from across the country and around the world. Staged at 2248 South Highway 237 in Round Top, Texas, March 30-April3. Info.: www.roundtop-marburger.com, 979.249.3260 (week of show only).

The HADA Spring Antiques Show & Sale takes place March 5-7 at the George R. Brown Convention Center and features 150 dealers plus an ASID “ask a designer” booth.

Show at The Galveston Island Convention Center at the San Luis Resort, March 1314. The annual benefit for the Galveston Island Humane Society, the Home & Garden Show is a showcase of goods and services available for the home, inside and out. Furnishings, pools and spas, contractors, kitchen gadgets, interior designers, elevators, plants, landscape designers, and pet supplies are featured in more than 100 booths and exhibits. Enjoy programs

by Brenda Beust Smith (The Lazy Gardner), floral designer Connie Dryden of Island Flowers and more. Information: www.galveston.com, 409.762.3930.

Galveston-area homeowners can gather ideas and meet local professionals at the 22nd Annual Galveston Home & Garden

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The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston opens its two grand estates, Bayou Bend and Rienzi, for the museum’s second annual Spring House and Gardens Days.

Guests can take part in informal garden and flower demonstrations, workshops and tours with a focus on eco-friendly gardening methods and preservation.

Hands-on activities and arts and crafts are available for kids. These special homes are open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 pm and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. for the event, which runs March 12-13. Admission is $15 for a three-day admission pass and $10 for a single-day pass. Children 12 and under are free with adult admission. Free parking at Bayou Bend with shuttle between Rienzi and Bayou Bend. Information: (713) 639-7759 or (713) 639-7800, www.mfah.org/rienzi and www.mfah.org/bayoubend.

On the third Saturday of each month, Fredricksburg Trade Days features 350 vendors set up in six barns. Find antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, shabby chick items, primiteves, ranch furniture, hunting accessories, candles, unique clothing, jewelry and more.

Information: www.fbgtradedays.com, 800.990.4900.

David Oriental Rugs is independently owned and has been serving the Greater Houston Area for over 30 years. With one of the largest showrooms in the area, David Oriental Rugs offers the most exquisite array of specialized rugs. David also received the BBB Gold Star award in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

David Oriental Rugs is a direct importer of fine Persian carpets with expertise in antique Persian rugs. Oriental rug appraisal and restoration services are also available. So whether you are in the market for a new Persian rug or need some assistance with a rug you already own, David can help!

DAVID ORIENTAL RUGS New Collection 7560 Westheimer Road @ Voss, Suite C., Houston,TX 77063

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diy decorating

Kitchen Upgrade

After

After

A new copper farmhouse sink and faucet, dark quartz counters, bead board backsplash, and new trim add architectural detailing and color contrast to the updated kitchen.

A CONDO KITCHEN GOES FROM OLD HAT TO FIRST CLASS WITH SIMPLE TOUCHES AND A FEW INVESTMENTS

By JOETTA MOULDEN • Photography by JANET LENZEN

Before

Before 14

A lack of storage, old stove, vent hood, counters, wallpaper border, mismatched hardware and slab cabinet doors were dating this kitchen.

The thing I enjoy most about the interior makeover business is taking a sow’s ear and turning it into a silk purse. And when I can do so with the condominium kitchen belonging to one of my very best friends, then it is fun, as well as satisfying!

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After CUSTOM MADE PAVILIONS

After Building out the refrigerator and pantry cabinet, new door fronts, wood molding, stainless appliances, under cabinet and recessed ceiling lighting, quartz countertops and a bead board backsplash updated the kitchen. The owner splurged on a copper farmhouse sink and bridge faucet. Removing the upper corner cabinet doors saved money and showcases her blue and white porcelain collection.

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Lynn’s kitchen was outdated and did not reflect the rest of her condo décor.

“I saved the best renovation for the last,” she explains. “I wanted to wait until I could renovate exactly as I wanted, without financial concerns,” she explains.

Lynn wanted to install the best products she could afford that still worked within the existing footprint of the room. Because I knew that she really wanted a copper farmhouse sink and quartz countertops, we worked with colors and selections that offered contrast with her existing Saltillo tile floor and new stainless refrigerator.

“Serving Houston and it’s surrounding area f or over 20 years”

R EBORN G RANITE W H O L E S A L E & R E TA I L

The most interesting kitchens offer contrast between the

tip> flooring, cabinets, countertop, backsplash and wall color.

Like most small kitchens, storage is always at a premium. It was a tough sell, but I convinced Lynn to build in the refrigerator, adding storage above the appliance and bringing the pantry forward to deepen the storage inside. I also recommended she add a working drawer to the dummy space to the right of the stove.

“At first, I had hoped to avoid any significant construction, so I was very resistant to those changes,” Lynn says. However, she soon realized that it would improve the kitchen’s look and storage space.

“Your idea of removing the doors on the two corner cabinets was inspired. It saved me money, makes the room feel larger, and now I can enjoy all of my favorite collections,” she explains.

Create contrast in materials—rough with smooth, polished

tip> with grooved, metallic with stone.

It was an easy sell to convince Lynn to use affordable scored bead board for the backsplash, painted Benjamin Moore “Grant Beige” to match the walls.

Lowe’s under counter Xenon puck lighting, and a space-saving Kenmore Elite double oven which allows her to use the small upper oven for daily use, saves energy and avoids heating up the small room in warmer months. The oven matches the other stainless Kenmore Elite appliances, all from The Great Indoors. I emailed her photos of finished kitchens so that she could see how these changes looked in real kitchens.

Lynn selected the hammered copper farmhouse sink and bridge faucet from www.signaturehardware.com. The Harbor Breeze ceiling fan, Valspar “White Picket Fence” trim paint, recessed can lights and energy efficient

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KITCHEN UPGRADE

trade secrets • Think “green”—existing kitchen cabinets can be refaced, trim and even new drawers added and painted.

This, plus new hardware, keeps cabinets out of the landfill and saves money, too.

• Resist the temptation to “decorate” the top of your cabinets with bric-a-brac that adds clutter and requires dusting. In this case, wood trim was added to the furdown to minimize it.

• By keeping original cabinet boxes and flooring, you can save enough money to splurge on a high-end sink and faucet.

• Do build in your refrigerator to add a custom look and more storage.

• Removing cabinet doors displays pretty collections and saves money, too.

• Sometimes the most effective strategy is not to gut your kitchen, but to first rethink the cabinets that are already paid for.

compact fluorescent can bulbs came from Lowe’s. Zodiac quartz “Marrone Emperador” countertop and oil-rubbed bronze hardware came from The Great Indoors. Additionally, Lynn bought oversized kitchen towels from Williams Sonoma and my upholsterer used them to cover her breakfast chair seats, which adds a French Country vibe to the room.

Minimal changes—like removing doors—can

tip> make a dramatic difference.

After After New lighting, bead board backsplash, quartz countertops, copper sink, bridge faucet and an orderly arrangement of Lynn’s collections tie the kitchen into the adjoining dining space.

“Every project we have worked on has always turned out better than I expected, and this kitchen is no exception,” Lynn says. She advises consulting a professional before beginning any project that affects property value. “Your emailed photos and notes helped me visualize the changes, compare costs and assisted me in getting competitive bids,” she adds.

Removing a window treatment can open up

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 March 31, a 15-percent first meeting discount will be given. Shelterstyle.com holds a "Pages of Happiness" rating and, for the fourth consecutive year, a “Super Service Award” presented to 5 percent of companies that achieve and maintain a superior rating on www.angieslist.com.

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tip> the space and bring the view and light

through the pass through to the living room.

Lynn admits that she is still working on keeping the counters as uncluttered as possible and loves the clean, crisp feel the kitchen has. Even her collections look crisp and organized in their new arrangement. She loves the copper sink: “Since it is almost in my living room, I had always wanted one. Everyone always gathers in the kitchen no matter what its size. Now it’s much more inviting, and I find myself cooking more than ever. Friends and family love gathering in the new space.”

Before

Before

house& home | M a r c h 2 0 1 0 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

Dated lighting, lack of storage, a busy wallpaper border and a collection of hearts, blue and white porcelain and Talavera pottery were overwhelming this condo kitchen. The counters and backsplash were faux butcher block laminate.

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A CLEAN SWEEP

MARCH MADNESS CAN DESCRIBE THE SEASONAL URGE TO CLEAN | B y D E B I B R YA N T

Spring cleaning fever—it’s the craving we get when springtime’s sunny days signal us to break out the mops and brooms, the detergents and cleaners, the vacuums, dust rags and scouring pads. Smart planning and the right supplies can make all the work a breeze.

A B O V E : Inspect the condition of your home inside and out while you clean away dirt and grime.

18

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Home Show

SALE!

THE POWER OF CLEAN

AFTER A F T E R : A pressure wash of the roof by Texas Roof Clean transformed the house.

B E F O R E : Grit and grime on the roof marred the look of this Houston house.

INTERIOR MOVES

BEFORE

“The best way to get started is to get rid of the clutter,” says Sharon Dozier, owner of Cleaning by the Stars. While it is human nature to cling to our stuff, sometimes it can overwhelm us. So, throw out, give away or put away.

She also advises to have some method to your madness. “For instance, always start top to bottom and go left to right,” she says. “Or, if you begin in the bathroom, stay in there until you are done. Finish what you start.”

Ivan Orellana, general manager at Texas Unlimited Cleaning Services, suggests these tips for specialty areas. “We recommend that your carpets be steamcleaned twice a year,” he says. “If you have children or pets, you should do it at least one additional time. Just put it on your calendar as a regular cleaning item.

Timely cleaning really cuts down on bacteria and allergens. Everyone will be healthier.”

As for tile and grout, he says, “They are easy to clean and maintain. For our clients, we steam-clean them once a year with the appropriate attachment. The most important thing with tile and grout—especially in the kitchen—is to make sure they are properly sealed. Stains are really hard to get out, otherwise.”

OUTSIDE APPEARANCES

If the exterior of your house needs a good cleaning, Richard Selvera, owner of Pearland Pressure Washing, makes these suggestions: • First, inspect the integrity of your structure. During the winter, freezing L E F T : Cleaning windows and glass doors makes your whole house brighter.

20

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Home Furnishings

Accessories

Fabrics

Trims

COLE’S ANTIQUES SHOW& SALE THURSDAY, MARCH 25 SATURDAY, APRIL 3, 2010

Before

After

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21

THE POWER OF CLEAN

getting it done

AFTER

Want to put some fresh energy into the annual housecleaning?

• Make it a family affair. Involve everyone in a planning session and assign tasks to each family member. Let each person mark their chore off the list when completed to give them a sense of accomplishment.

• Wear old and comfortable clothes. This way, you can dig in and work without worrying about stains and spills.

• Open all the windows. Even a 10-15 minute airing-out will do wonders for the atmosphere in your home.

• Go green. Now is a good time to try out some of the new, environmentally sensitive cleaners, if you haven’t already. You can also use the old-fashioned “green” products: vinegar, baking soda and elbow grease.

BEFORE

A B O V E : Shingles before (inset) and after SparkleWash power cleansing. Photos courtesy SparkleWash International.

B E L O W : Brick and stone especially benefit from pressure washing. © D.Ducouret - Fotolia.com

B E L O W : An efficient closet system can maximize your storage and keep you organized.

Photo by Nikolay Okhitin, Fotolia.com

temperatures and subsequent thawing can create problems such as gaps in the brick and mortar, issues with gutters and siding, or bubbles in the paint.

You want to be sure there are no problems that could be made worse by high-pressure water.

• If you own a pressure washer, make sure it is operating properly, including checking for gas and oil, before you begin the cleaning project.

• As for a cleaner—“I recommend Jomax® House Cleaner and Mildew Killer. Mix it with bleach as directed on the label and put it on with a pumpup sprayer or roller. Apply from the bottom up and let it sit for the recommended time. Rinse from the top down with a pressure washer, using fresh water,” he says.

For windows, he also urges that they be inspected first. “Then to clean them, you can use Dawn dish detergent with fresh water,” he says. He applies it with a squeegee and washcloth.

For driveways and sidewalks, he recommends that you call a professional.

“It’s easy to get the zebra-effect with a rented pressure washer because they usually aren’t powerful enough. Also you can erode the concrete. So, for your energy and stress levels, hiring a professional is the best bet,” he says.

THE NEXT LEVEL

22

If you decide you need professional help with your spring cleaning chores, sometimes the challenge is in finding who to turn to. Dozier urges, “Ask friends, family and neighbors for referrals. And always check references.”

Orellana says, “Look for companies that offer a warranty and who will stand by their work. In the long run, even if you pay a higher rate for their services, you save money.”

resources CLEANING BY THE STARS 281.341.9982 PEARLAND PRESSURE WASHING 713.899.0789 TEXAS UNLIMITED CLEANING Ser vices, 713.827.7020

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handbook handbook

B y D E B I B R YA N T

POOL YOUR ASSETS

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A POOL DESIGN PRO CAN HELP YOU CREATE AN OASIS THAT YIELDS YEARS OF ENJOYMENT

Pools add much more than a splashy play zone to your property. Yes, they are great for kiddos to who love to swim during our summery months, but grown-ups enjoy pool privileges, too.

“Few people need a pool, but many desire one.” says Jim Cronin, senior designer at Creative Pool Designs. “Only you and your family can gauge your pleasure in it — is it worth it to you?”

Sometimes a house requires a pool, he says. “Some houses are designed by the architect so that a pool completes the overall plan.

Other houses have physical features — a change in topography, woods, a bayou — and a pool enhances the view that is already there. When it comes to selling your house, sophisticated buyers have a good sense of value and know this.”

“It’s a good time to remodel existing pools,” says Ned Jackson, owner of Adams Tile & Plaster for the past 32 years. “The market is offering some of the best pricing in years.”

DESIGN PRINCIPLES

“Our guiding principle is to be design consistent,” Cronin says. “If you have, say, a colonial house, we might suggest a classic or Roman pool.

This is usually a basic rectangle, which is timelessly exquisite. It achieves elegance with its simplicity.”

For a contemporary house, he might suggest rigid lines counterbalanced by one curve, “something that reflects the avant-garde nature of the house.”

Another way to be design consistent is to employ similar materials used in the house. “If you have a brick home, we might use the same brick along the perimeter of the pool or in a raised element, such as a waterfall,” he explains.

maintenance matters When renovating your pool, don’t forget to check out your pool’s maintenance equipment. Follow these tips for the best results: • Call in a professional to assess your mechanical equipment and have him or her devise a recommended plan of action. It usually costs the price of a service call, about $75.

• Don’t buy maintenance equipment that’s too big or too small for your pool. Finding the proper balance between the size of the pool and the size of the equipment is critical.

• Properly maintained equipment is not the same thing as a properly maintained pool. Don’t spend so much time on the quality of the water that you forget to perform proper maintenance on your mechanical equipment.

O P P O S I T E PA G E A B O V E : Turn a wooded back yard into a tranquil pond-like setting with a swimming pool designed to blend in with the environment. Photo courtesy Backyard Oasis Inc. O P P O S I T E PA G E B E L O W : Take your pool from disrepair to dazzling this offseason. Photo of a replastered pool courtesy Adams Tile & Plaster

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POOL YOUR ASSETS “Simplicity of design is important,” says Don Peak, owner of Reflection Pools and Spas. “A functional pool can be simple and elegant with clean lines and stone coping. Be sure to hire a qualified landscaper and lighting designer to complete the environment.”

ELEMENTS OF A POOL

Coping, decking, tile and plaster — these are the four main elements of a pool. Coping is the rim around the pool. “For beauty and durability, you can’t beat natural stone,” says Ned Jackson, of Adams Tile & Plaster. As for the decking, the material that runs from the pool to the house, he says the most popular choices are flagstone, brick or sprayed decking, which is sprayed concrete usually stamped with a pattern.

Reflection Pools & Spas replaced the coping and created an attractive rock waterfall for this pool.

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POOL YOUR ASSETS Tile runs between the coping and the water, usually about 6 inches high.

“You have many choices these days — in colors, prices and designs. Your pool doesn’t have to look like your neighbors,” says Jackson.

As for plaster, the interior of the pool, the options range from the least expensive white plaster to a more costly, but highly durable finish like Pebble Tec. “Plaster can really change the beauty of the pool,” he explains.

By the way, all these materials can be used to modernize an old pool. “You can update your pool just like you do a kitchen. Your choices are practically unlimited,” Jackson says. “We’ve seen natural stone become more and more popular.”

L E F T : Give your pool a makeover of the natural kind with water cascading over rocks and gently spilling into swimming and dipping areas, all surrounded by lush landscaping. Photo courtesy Pebble Tech

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ACCEPTANCE APPLIANCE CENTER, INC. Authorized As-Is Dealer 6757 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. W. • Suite 200 Houston, TX 77064 • 281-955-0861 www.acceptanceappliance.com 29

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POOL YOUR ASSETS JUST FOR PLEASURE

For the folks who own a swimming pool only to discover they’re not swimming like they thought they would, Kathy Best, owner of Best Backyard Design, offers these encouraging words: “A lot of people enjoy their pool simply as a water feature.

It’s there for the ambiance, for the sounds, for what it does to the back yard. Kids tend to use them constantly, but adults can just enjoy looking at them.”

"Swimming pools are attractive places to gather year round for kids and adults," says Cronin of Creative Pool Designs. He aslo recommends adding a fire pit or outdoor kitchen for added enjoyment.

L E F T : Pool deck pavers like these from Belgard instantly frame your pool and are available in a multitude of shapes, colors and sizes.

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1405 Cedar Post Ln., Houston TX 77055 713-932-7652 Open Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1 www.inthegardenhouston.com

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POOL YOUR ASSETS

questions to ask a pool designer

• What is it actually going to cost, including decking, landscaping and options?

• How much work will I have to do to maintain it? What types and quantities of supplies will I need to buy?

• How long will it take to build? How soon can we go swimming?

L E F T : Reflection Pools & Spas replaced the coping and created an attractive rock waterfall for this pool.

Accent Cabinets has been crafting and customizing homes in the Houston Metropolitan Area with superior attention to detail and excellent customer service since 1999.

Call for your complimentary in-home consultation.

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POOL YOUR ASSETS

resources ADAMS TILE & PLASTER 281.440.7634 ATLANTIS POOLSCAPES 281.955.0722 BACKYARD OASIS INC. 281.357.8161 BEST BACKYARD DESIGN 281.433.7429 COMPETITION POOLS & SPAS 281.955.8114 CREATIVE POOL DESIGNS 281.491.7665 THE POOL MAN 281.351.2577 REALITY POOLS 713.775.7144 REFLECTION POOLS & SPAS 713.559.1100 Add a water feature to provide a soft, soothing background splash. Photo courtesy Competition Pools & Spas

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A B O V E : After careful consideration with architects Rogers+Labarthe, homeowners Cindy and Ronald Baur chose to expand and enhance their 1938 bungalow rather than buy a larger home in another neighborhood. Finally, the architects envisioned that expanding up and out by bridging the space between the existing home and the detached garage would double the Baur’s square footage while preserving their home’s character.

L E F T : A butler’s pantry was removed to allow the dining room to flow directly into the kitchen and opening up space for a full-size pantry. This opened up the wall between the two original rooms and lends the feeling of more space by linking the dining room and kitchen to the sunken family room.

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ENDURING CHARM S t o r y by H o l l y B e re t t o • E x t e r i o r p h o t o s by Pa u l H e s t e r • I n t e r i o r p h o t o s by E r i c H e s t e r

Cindy and Ronald Baur loved the little gray brick cottage on the corner of Addison and Stockton. Moving to Houston from San Francisco in 1998, they settled into the 1938 house in the Southgate neighborhood, loving its cozy feel and ample natural light.

Fast forward a decade, toss in two children and a dog and the cozy cottage had become a might too snug.

“We went back and forth,” says Cindy. “We thought we might move and we looked in River Oaks and in the Heights. We thought we might remodel.”

The family went through about a year of such seesawing before deciding their love for the house and the neighborhood superseded everything. Thus began their search for someone who could remodel the

home without giving up its pre-War charm.

Enter architects John Rogers and Suzanne Labarthe of Rogers & Labarthe, who worked with Cindy and Ronald for two years to re-imagine the home, looking at it from various angles, determining what would be the ultimate plan for the Baur home. The firm had experience putting additions onto historic homes while paying careful attention to maintain the original style, even as they added in amenities modern families find necessary: larger living space, more bath39

A B O V E : With the kitchen, dining room and family room now connected with wide-open doorways, natural light and neighborhood ambiance flow into much of the Baur’s home through the abundant windows. Walls and furnishings are painted white to ease the eye through the more generous space.

O P P O S I T E : In the new modern kitchen, white wood-paneled cabinets recall the history of the home, while Cambrian black antique granite countertops provide a modern, yet classic look. Note that the columns on the island and bar echo the front porch columns. The new stainless appliances blend with antique-inspired touches, such as the curvy, country-style faucet and glass-front cabinets.

rooms, fully equipped kitchens. The firm’s “ah ha!” moment came when they realized they could essentially bridge the space between the home and the detached garage and expand up and out, effectively doubling the home’s square footage.

“Once we saw that, it came together pretty quickly,” says John Rogers. “We chose to put the mass of the extension of the family room and the master suite along the north property line and create a center piece between the original structure and the garage.”

The result is a deceptively simple unfolding of the home as you enter from the front door on Addison (it’s more apparent if you look at the home from the Stockton side.)

Off the entryway is the original living room, which flows

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into the sunroom on the left and the dining room on the right. It’s here that you realize something special happened to the cozy cottage.

The dining room was once accessed by a butler’s pantry, which was removed to allow the room to flow directly into the kitchen, effectively opening a wall between the two original rooms.

“Now we have a real family pantry,” Cindy says excitedly, opening the door in the kitchen that provides storage for everything from day-to-day staples to serving trays and extra appliances.

“We couldn’t do a lot with the width of the kitchen,” says Suzanne Labarthe, “but by opening up that wall into the dining room, we created the idea of more space.”

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A B O V E : Soft, yet striking, the red sofa warms up this sitting area even when the fireplace isn’t roaring. The decidedly unfussy pieces are perfect for the busy family. Both the generous coffee table and the antique armoire provide storage to keep clutter at bay.

O P P O S I T E : Sally Wheat Interiors matched the wrought iron on the original curving staircase. Reclaimed hardwood floors from Historic Houston match the original floors and all of the original glass doorknobs and hinges were rehabbed by Colonial Brass. Cindy found numerous antiques and vintage pieces at local re-sale shops and antiques stores, giving the new space the sense that it’s been there for decades.

The kitchen blends horizontally into a sunken family room, bordered by a bar/buffet that keeps the welcoming feel of the home, even as it expands before your eyes. The Cambrian black antique granite on the kitchen countertops, the center island and the buffet bring the rooms closer together, making for an easy gathering space. The big family room has a banquette along the wall and a huge area filled with couches and seating space. Sinking the space also allowed for keeping the original roof lines, while ensuring there was more open space.

On the other side of the expanse, a mud room comes in off the garage, custom-designed with tile floors and built-in shelving designed to keep things organized, which Cindy

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says she loves.

Upstairs, the original two-bedroom design got a makeover, too, turning the original master bedroom into daughter Kate’s pink-and-green girl space; Labarthe says one of her greatest moments in working on the house was ensuring natural light remained in the en-suite bath.

“You can see where the new dormer comes down,” she points out above the mirror and the bathroom sink. “But we still kept this small window to let some natural light in.”

Across the hall is son Jack’s room, where the original wall coming off the staircase was moved back about a foot to create a corridor leading to the new master suite and study

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area. Along that corridor are more built-in bookshelves and a study alcove that overlooks a new patio. Sliding doors opposite the alcove open into the new guest room, filled with the Baurs’ old master bedroom furniture.

“For a little while after the remodel was done, we slept up here,” says Cindy. “And it was like sleeping in a tree house, with the big window looking onto that tree.”

At the very end of the hall is the massive master suite, with a high boxed ceiling and huge windows, one of which opens onto a little faux balcony.

Cindy found some X-benches at The Guild Shop and plans to re-upholster them; they sit at the foot of the bed. In the master bath, a garden tub sits under a long window and the shower stall boasts a rainforest shower head.

“This is such a charming house and it was great to be able to do something cool with it while keeping the harmony of the neighborhood,” says Suzanne. “And it still manages to feel like the right scale, without being too big.”

Rogers agrees and gives credit to the Baurs for their love of the home.

“It would’ve been really easy to sell it to a developer who could’ve easily ripped it down and put up some McMansion,” he says. “But they really loved this home and wanted to find a way to bring old and new together.”

R I G H T : Living up to its name, the sunroom provides a cheery place for plants and people to survey the neighborhood, as well as the massive oak, which was spared by locating the addition between the detached garage and the house.

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In addition to the structural elements, there are several design notes throughout the home that meld the modern and the historic. Reclaimed hardwood floors perfectly matched the original and Cindy praises Historic Houston’s ability to find them. Cottage windows in the living room and the sunroom add character and harkens to the 1930s look. All of the home’s original glass doorknobs and hinges were preserved, cleaned and re-plated

by Colonial Brass and add a stunning period detail amid the re-model. Designer Sally Wheat matched the wrought iron railing that borders the original curving staircase. And Cindy’s ability to find various dressers, benches and other touches at The Guild Shop and similar re-sale and antique stores helps keep the homey feel.

After the 11-month renovation and nearly a year in the home, Cindy says it feels like it was always this perfect.

“It felt like home right away, even with all the new space.”

R I G H T : The generous new master bath was a necessary upgrade for homeowners Cindy and Ronald Baur. Details such as the cottage-inspired windows, Art Decoinspired sconces, white Carrera marble surfaces, vintage-look faucets and the allwhite cabinets and trim lend a glamorous 1930s mystique to the all-new space.

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The regal upholstered headboard gives the master bedroom sophistication without feeling stuffy. The white palette is sprinkled with dashes of blue, brown and yellow, drawn from the nature-print pillows. The lamps and bedside tables add modern flair, while sticking to the white theme.

Architects Rogers+Labarthe sought to keep the original roof lines of the house, while building in more open space. Two dormers were added to complement the original dormer, while cottage windows wrap the living room and sunroom, adding character and recalling the 1930s style of the original home.

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Son Jack’s room boasts vintage aviation icons, including the airplane fan with coordinating ceiling graphic. Across the corridor is daughter Kate’s room, which was previously the master bedroom. Here, the reclaimed wood floors blend seamlessly with the home’s original hardwoods.

resources Architects: Rogers and LaBar the 713.522.8805 Builder: Clint Childress Advanced Construction 713.466.3662 Windows: Mar vin Infinity Renaissance Windows and Doors 713.863.9988 Plumbing Fixtures: Westheimer Plumbing 713.942.9519 Interior Design: Sally Wheat Interiors 713.269.1554 Wood Floors Installation: Floors Etc. 713.880.8888 Reclaimed wood from: Historic Houston 713.522.0542 Kitchen Countertops: Cambrian Black Antique Granite Dal-Tile Stone Center 713.681.7625 Re-Plated Hardware Hinges/Glass Door Knobs: Colonial Brass 713.784.7765

The wall coming off the staircase was moved back about a foot to create a corridor leading to the new master suite and study area. Along that corridor are more built-in bookshelves and a study alcove that overlooks a new patio.

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Photography by Paul Hester and Eric Hester

Rice Design Alliance 2010 ARCHITECTURE TOUR

SOUTHGATE: AN URBAN OASIS Explore Eight Architecturally Acclaimed Homes March 20-21 The inviting neighborhood of Southgate sits next to Rice University and the Texas Medical Center, bounded by University, Travis, W. Holcombe and Greenbriar. Southgate and its surrounding area are undergoing considerable change and expansion, yet the neighborhood has retained its close-knit community feeling and scenic harmony. Architects and designers working in the neighborhood have been successful with integrating their designs for modern living into the older fabric and staying within the neighborhood’s strict deed restrictions.

2102 ADDISON Built 1938, Dixon & Ellis, Architects; Rehabilitated, 2008 Rogers + Labarthe Architects

The eight homes range from updated 1930s cottages to an architect-built MidCentury Modern, to homes built in the past five years. Architects for many of the houses will be on hand to answer questions during the tour. Rice Design Alliance members and their guests can tour the eight homes in Southgate. The tour is open only to RDA members and their guests. Information: 713.348.4876 or www.ricedesignalliance.org.

Lasting Icons 1925 ADDISON Built 1938; Rehabilitated, 2006 Z-K Building Design, Architect

2056 DRYDEN Built 1942, M. R. Van Valkenburg, Designer; Rehabilitated, 1998

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2145 SOUTHGATE Built 1965, Charles B. Thomsen, Architect

• SYNTHETIC LAWNS BY FOREVERLAWN •

Think Green...Think Forever...Think ForeverLawn Yes! For 15 to 20 Years. Lots of Warranty.

With the sudden water shortage, ForeverLawn is a great alternative to natural grass.

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is the artificial grass designed specifically for dogs. Its unique features help promote a cleaner, safer, better-smelling environment for pets. With its exclusive flow-through backing, short dense blade structure, and antimicrobial protection, K9Grass is the ideal surface for both residential and commercial pet areas.

Playground Grass is lush, beautiful green grass that is safe for kids to play on, soft to fall on, and cost effective.

Low maintenance. Also works great for regular lawn areas.

713.398.1081 • 832.326.2314 www.foreverlawninc.com 51

Rice Design Alliance 2010 ARCHITECTURE TOUR

2201 SOUTHGATE Built 2006, Dillon Kyle Architecture

Recent Yet Regal

2239 UNIVERSITY Built 2008, Strasser/Ragni Architects with Emily Sing

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2206 SHERIDAN Built 2004 Brave/Architecture 2045 UNIVERSITY Built 2005, Collaborative Design Works (preliminary design with Openshop Studio)

SERVICING: Cabinet Shops • Home Craftsman • Remodelers • Furniture Makers • Home Builders •

OFFERING: • Custom Millwork • Mouldings • Plywoods • Veneers • Hand tools • Books and Supplies

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Over 100 species of hardwoods, softwoods and exotic woods.

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713-862-5673

Heights

Over 50 years of quality and dependable service.

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N IO RS NT NE tract, w E n W o T AT MEOg any cow you hs and • • HOe signinany shhoundresdands p u u or Bef ur com ve yo es tho Contractors & Architects Welcome • 20 Years Experience s o a s let can s me ca dollar Replacement Windows • New Construction Triple Pane we in so of Glass Bay & Bow Windows • KeepSafe® Glass

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FEATURING TOTO BATHROOM FIXTURES

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WWW.STILLGOODE.COM (281) 370-4447 Open Monday-Thursday 10am-6pm ◆ Friday-Saturday 10am-5pm ◆ Sunday 1pm-5pm Shipping & Delivery Available ◆ All Major Credit Cards Accepted Consignments by Appointment

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RECONDITION YOUR AIR-CONDITIONER A SPRING CHECK-UP CAN ENSURE YOUR A/C KEEPS ITS COOL THROUGHOUT THE YEAR B y D E B I B R YA N T A B O V E : Have a certified technician inspect your air conditioning unit to assure it will function at maximum efficiency all season. Photo courtesy of Rheem.

give me a break Homeowners may be eligible for a tax credit on certain types of new heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and water heating equipment due to the passage of the Economic Stimulus Bill. A total tax credit of $1,500 applies to purchases and specified home improvements done in the time-frame from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2010. See your local dealer for qualifying products.

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To everything there is a season, says the old proverb, and we are headed into Houston’s hot one. This month is a good time to make sure your air-conditioner is ready for it and running in tip-top order.

TECH TALK

Jim Barry, president-owner of Doctor Cool & Professor Heat, says, “First, get your air conditioner checked by a professional who is North American Training Excellence (NATE) certified.” It is a service call that pays long-term benefits because a fully-functioning a/c unit will use less electricity.

One chore that needs to be done is to make sure the drain lines are clear. “Algae dry up from the central heat in the winter, then when you begin to use the air-conditioner again, the moisture in the system increases, causing the algae to float. The safety pan should catch most of them, but it doesn’t always,” explains A.J. Warren, president of A.J. Warren Service Co. Although homeowners can do this task themselves, it is a bit tricky, so Warren recommends that you use a professional. In a riskreward assessment, the risk you run in messing up the system is more than covered by the $80-$90 service call.

Warren also encourages homeowners to make sure the refrigerant charge, also known as Freon, is correct. “Just one pound off can increase the run time of your unit because it is not cooling to capacity,” he says.

house& home | M a r c h 2 0 1 0 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

DUST UP

One sign that your A/C unit may be in trouble is a continual problem with dust. Warren says, “If you always have dust in your house, you need to ask yourself—what is the source? Just cleaning it up doesn’t solve the problem. It could mean that you have a hole in your a/c system. For instance, the duct work may have come undone or animals may have made a nest in the system.” A professional can help out with this issue, too. “It’s not rocket science,” he points out, “but you do have to know where to look and what to look for.”

TIME TO START ALL OVER? If you think you might need an entirely new system, the manufacturer Trane offers this helpful checklist to aid in your decision-making process: 1. Do your heating and air conditioning bills seem too high?

2. Are any of your current HVAC system units too noisy?

3. Are there rooms that are always too hot or too cold?

4. Do you have pets or do any family members suffer from allergies?

5. Do cooking odors linger?

THE PROS

© ryasick - Fotolia.com

Over time, your relationship with a reputable A/C professional is worth developing. Barry says, “You want a contactor whom you can trust. Look for the company’s Better Business Bureau rating and what professional affiliations they have, such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America-Greater Houston.”

A B O V E L E F T A N D L E F T : With the proper settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 a year in energy costs – that’s well worth upgrading to a programmable model if you haven’t yet.

© Jennifer Nickert - Fotolia.com

bona fide and certified

resources A.J. WARREN SERVICE CO. 713.466.6135 DOCTOR COOL & PROFESSOR HEAT 281.338.8751 ENVIRONMENTAL AIR 713.680.3274 ULTRA MECHANICAL SERVICE 281.277.7557 ADDITIONAL INFO: www.energystar.gov www.trane.com

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To help qualify any new air-conditioning contractor that you may want to hire, you can always look at the industry organizations that they belong to. Jim Barry with Doctor Cool & Professor Heat points out that the list of reputable associations is “a mile long”, but here are a few entities he recommends: Air Conditioning Contractors of America-Greater Houston www.accagh.org Air Conditioning Contractors of America-Texas Chapter www.tacca.org Refrigeration Service Engineers Society www.rses.org Indoor Air Quality Association www.iaqa.org

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pet of the month pet of the month

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As you can see I am a very good boy and can sit on command. I am an awesome allAmerican mutt, a spunky Terrier mix. I have been living at the Houston SPCA since early January, after my first family had to give me up due to tough times. I say, hard times are exactly when you want a sweet, scruffy friend to turn to. My grandmother always said, “never underestimate the warmth of a cold nose.”

Now that I’m 4 years old, I am past a lot of that puppy nonsense, but I am playful, gentle and, frankly quite adorable. One caveat: I have tested positive for heartworms, but no worries, this can be treated successfully considering my youth and otherwise good health.

The SPCA folks are nice, but I’d love to come home with you today. Please come meet me – I promise we’ll be great friends. Be sure to tell ‘em my ID# A08986699.

HOUSTON SPCA 900 Portway Drive, Houston 77024, 713.869.SPCA (7722) Noon to 8 p.m. daily, www.houstonspca.org

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Present this ad for Special Offer on Granite Countertops Great Selection– Many Colors Showroom Available by Appt.

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Take an ordinary journey to an extraordinary place

• Mobile refinishing shops • Professionally trained refinishers • On-site Door refinishing • 1-day Service • Because we try harder!

Why are we THE BEST on-site door refinishing company in Houston?

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•Commercial Build Outs •Remodeling •Concrete •Small or Large Projects

The Arbor Gate 15635 FM 2920 • Tomball, Texas 77377

Visit www.aprettydoor.com to see current Special Offers!

Buy Where The Contractors Buy

4”x4” Wall Tile.......7¢ 6”x6” Wall Tile.....14¢

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want more? more ideas? more resources? more great homes?

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exterior design Encore Azalea, Autumn Belle variety

Encore Azalea, Autumn Embers variety

Enjoy Three Seasons of Blooms with Encore Azaleas For prolific blooms, nothing beats glamorous azaleas, but their

early spring blooming season seems all too short. For longer bursts of blooming color, consider hardy Encore Azaleas available in 23 varieties that bloom spring, summer and fall.

Plant breeder Robert E. "Buddy" Lee developed Encore Azaleas in the early 1980s at his Louisiana nursery by cross-breeding traditional spring-blooming azaleas with a rare summer-blooming variety. They perform well and are easy to grow in the Houston area when planted in acidic soil high in organic material with good drainage. They fare best in north- or east-facing sites in a wooded area or located next to a building. ”Our azaleas perform best with ample sun, ideally four to six hours sun, with some shade protection from the hot summer afternoon sun,” says Lee. In the Houston area, soil types can vary from one location to the next. So have your soil tested and amend your soil accordingly. “Ask your local garden center manager for recommendations for soil amendment and the use of sulfur products,” Lee advises. “To give your azaleas a healthy start, I always advise amending the soil with up to 50 percent peat moss or pine bark to give the roots extra organic material that will improve the drainage and acidity of the soil. Pine bark and peat moss both improve the pH and drainage of the soil.” Some gardeners use 100 percent pine bark in their azalea beds with good success. Lee cautions against buying garden mixes: “They may not be acidic and have fertilizer incorporated into them.”

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Some areas of Houston may experience high rainfall levels, so it's critical to prepare and raise the beds for proper drainage, especially in areas prone to holding water. When planting, first saturate the root ball thoroughly. Then make sure the top 2 inches of the root ball are above ground/bed level, then backfill with your amended soil. Next place 2 to 3 inches of pine bark mulch or pine straw mulch over the planting site to help control weeds, maintain moisture and protect the root system.

Don’t bury the roots too deeply.

The best time to fertilize is after the initial spring bloom, making sure the plant is well hydrated before fertilizing. During the first year, new azaleas will die quickly if the soil dries excessively. “Watch the rainfall and adjust your watering accordingly,” says Lee. “I suggest watering thoroughly twice a week so the water penetrates 2 to 4 inches deep.”

Encore Azaleas can be pruned soon after they bloom in the spring to maintain the desired shape. Light pruning and proper sunlight help ensure fuller, denser azaleas. When August arrives, pruning and fertilizing should be halted to avoid stimulating new growth that might be susceptible to a freeze.

Encore Azaleas are available at local garden centers throughout the Houston area. For more information and retail locations, visit www.encoreazalea.com.

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We agreed Thanks to on the most NARI, important I got exactly detail. what I wanted

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the

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Open To The Public

23111 FM 1462 Damon, TX • 979-553-3441 • 979-553-3756 fax

www.brazosbendtreefarm.com

Interior/Exterior Painting Drywall Install • Texture Siding • Carpentry Concrete Painting Royal Touch Remodeling

Serving Greater Houston Since 1996 Fully Insured

www.rtcontracting.com 281-578-5162 rtcontracting@sbcglobal.net

CLEANING BY *THE STARS* MAID SERVICE

We do it all! • Specialized Cleaning Sharon Dozier Owner

281-341-9982 Phone 832-640-3049 Cell

Purchase of FREE PLANTING with Plants and Materials FREE ESTIMATES 713.523.5667

Additions • New Construction Electrical • Carpentry • Painting • Granite

O.B.R. REMODELING SERVICES Octavio Ramirez,

www.nandvpatioco.com

Patio Covers • Porches • Carports Deck Covers • Solar Screens • Arbors Vinyl Windows • Maintenance/Repair

Contractor

OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE • LICENSED & INSURED

We Specialize In Bringing You Custom Made Rooms for All Seasons.

713.828.0725

WWW.OBREMODELING.COM

L

andmark andscapes

281.397.8703

Free On-site Estimates

SALDANA PAINTING & REMODELING 281-330-9986

Gallaway Porcelain Works

Blowout CABINETS Sale !!!

Reconditioning

Repair

Refinishing Porcelain Acrylics I Simulated Marble I Fiberglass I Tub Chips I Antique Clawfoot Tubs Refinisher for the Emporium I I

281-447-9997 9815 North Fwy, 77037

281-304-9300

TexasTubs.com

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Garden Fountains

EVERIC POOL PLASTERING

STATUE MAKERS

# # # # # VISIT US AT THE # # # # # THE BIG RED BARN THE CAT SPRING ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOW IN ROUND TOP, TX

COMPLETE POOL REMODELING Insured For Your Convenience

March 13-14, 2010

713-728-9941

912 Yale Street North of I-10 in “The Heights”

www.evericpoolplastering.com

2003 Blalock Road (1.5 Miles N of I-10)

March 31 • April 1, 2 & 3, 2010

713-861-7750

713-467-9082

We Do ESTATE SALES Call Us! www.randfantiques.com

www.statuemakers.com Tues-Sat 10-6 Sun 1-5 Closed Mon.

Wed - Sat: 10:00 - 5:30 # Sun - Tues: By Chance or Appt.

Peggy’s Services Hazel’s Custom Drapes,

Money Makers

Over 45 years experience

Flags, Banners, Poles

Peggy Robinson

Windsocks and Pennants

Phone: 281.345.0077 www.peggyservices.com

Interior Decorator

www.moneymakersflags.com 1517 Blalock Houston, TX 77080

THREE-TIME 2010 AWARD WINNER

Katy

• CABINETS • FIXTURES • COUNTERTOPS

Kitchen Bath

-FROM FOUNDATION TO ROOFJose Alvarez

STONE RESTORATION We restore & polish:

Marble • Travertine • Limestone • Granite Remove: Scratches • Stains We restore counters, vanities & table tops We clean and seal exterior patios

Weswww.houstonstonedoctor.com Bowden 713•858•7736

WAYNE’S HARDWOOD • CARPET • TILE (1-10 @Kirkwood)

281-596-8187

Plumbing Solutions Wade Edwards

Reflection Pools&Spas

713-559-1100

Beautiful Pools at Affordable Prices

281-974-9449

REMODELING SERVICES

M-F 10-5 • Sat 10-6 • Sun 12-5 or Appoint.

713.856.8329 • www.mrbrickofhouston.com

Residential & Commercial Maid Services

24 Years Experience

ALVAREZ BUILDERS,INC. 713-875-3621

100

March Discount for Family or Friend • Drapes • Blinds • Shutters • Window Film

Licensed Plumber

281.391.6279 www.KatyKitchen.com

Specialists in pointing and filling brick and mortar cracks along with Patio & Outdoor Firepits

Staging/Design $

713-461-1153 800-838-1153

COMPLETE KITCHEN REMODELS

“Simply the best in brick repair”

www.reflection poolsandspas.com

Porcelain Repair Bathroom Detailing Bathtubs • Sinks • Tile • Repaired • Removed • Installed • Cleaned & Polished

FREE ESTIMATES

713-498-8532 OWNER CRAFTSMAN-WESLEY MCDOUGLE

By George Szontagh TREC License #2212 Prepurchase/Slab/Pier & Beam Since 1990

MAC#1001

713-961-1531 Trec#2997

Iron • Wood • Chain Link • Automatic Gate Openers

Beating the competition for years!

Free Estimates 281-467-1898 • 281-397-8354 fax

4 Sisters Cleaning

• Home or Office Family Owned & Operated Since • Spring Cleaning 1990 • Weekly or Bi-Weekly • Move-Ins or Move-Outs • Carpet Cleaning Reference Avail.

Call for Estimates

Real Estate Inspections Houston Since 1991

by SafeHouse Serving Residential • Commercial • Multi-Units • structural/mechanical/termites • pools/spas/sprinkler systems • mold testing & consultation • independent foundation evaluations Licensed Mold Assessment Consultant

AMAZING FENCES & BURGLAR BARS

Sales•Service •Installation

832.498.7709

• Custom Cabinets • Remodeling • Siding • Framing

www.GasProductservices.com

281-798-8006

Jose L. Rosas•832.651.7061Cell

SSProfessionalPainting.com Advertise your home related business Commercial / Residential in this section for as little as $90 per month.

Since 1980 For more information, call 713.523.6523. 713-294-5706

FULLY INSURED ALL WORK GUARANTEED 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Frameless and Framed Shower Doors & Enclosures Many Glass and Hardware Options Available Alker Fine Arts • Cadogan Design • Connie Voss Crow & Co. • David Lackey • Da Vinci • Diane Joplin English Surrey • Fred Nevill • Hallmark • Jerry & Chutie Getz Kathleen Cook • Lotus Gallery • L & R • Maria Mozgova • Past Era Pillsbury~Michel • Regency Group • Le Faubourg Stapleton Art & Decor • Toutounchian Rugs • Town & Country Antiques

66

house& home | M a r c h 2 0 1 0 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

houstonshowerdoors.com

281.220.6886

Do business with a company you can trust - Marchal/Stevenson Elevator has been in business since 1980. We will be there for “Service after the Sale”

Visit Our Showroom at 11050 West Little York • Building E • Houston, TX 77041 713-961-1940 • www.marchalstevensonelev.com 67

SPRING-IS-GREEN SALE Buona Valore 50 oz. Stainmaster Ultra Life

$3.99 sq. ft. installed “Competition Buster” guaranteed lowest price

Buona Vita

65 oz. Stainmaster Ultra Life

$4.69

sq. ft. installed “Competition Buster” guaranteed lowest price

Celebrate Spring with our lowest prices on earth-friendly Karastan carpet!

Stainmaster Ultra Life Carpet from Karastan

“If you stain it, we’ll replace it.”*

STAINMASTER® carpet lasts up to 50% longer and stays up to 30% cleaner than other carpets.* *Results based on testing of statistically representative sample of carpets of comparable constructions, styles and colors.

*

Ask about our revolutionary no-exclusions stain warranty, exclusively at Roberts Carpet & Fine Floors

* CLEAR LAKE 20810 I-45 SOUTH _____________________281-332-4477 * SOUTHWEST 3003 FONDREN _________________________713-785-1900 * WOODLANDS 19053 I-45 _____________________________936-271-0000

“Your Perfect Rug Source” www.robertscarpet.com

CENTRAL 3404 KIRBY___________________________________713-523-0666 NORTHWEST 6920 FM 1960 W. ______________________281-580-9495 SUGAR LAND 12614 S.W. FREEWAY__________________281-240-8200 GULF FREEWAY4750 GULF FREEWAY ______________713-926-5100 WEST 11177 KATY FREEWAY _____________________________713-468-1300 * Rug Gallery store locations