2
house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
COLONY BUILDERS $750 OFF Patio Covers
30% OFF Replacement Windows Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at time of estimate. Expires 5/11/18
$200 GIFT CARD from Best Buy with product purchase.
Exp 5/11/18
Minimum $5,000. Expires 5/11/18
FREE R-30 Attic Insulation with purchase of complete siding & windows Not valid with other offers
We are EXPERIENCED, ACCREDITED CONTRACTORS for Your Greater Houston Renovation, Addition, or Restoration
Celebrating 24 Years of Excellence • 20-Plus Years Serving Houston and Surrounding Areas
$2500 OFF Conventional
Sunroom or Room Addition Minimum size, 250 Sq. Ft. • Exp 5/11/18
James Hardie Siding
30% OFF
FREE In-Home Design Consultation Expires 5/11/18
Now Authorized Dealer of
Four Seasons Sunrooms & Windows
713.272.6224 | www.colonybuildersinc.com Schedule Your Free In-Home Consultation Today!
5
APRIL 2018
60 CONTENTS 8 14 18 26 30 72 76 78
Editor’s Note Calendar Project: The Art of an Estate Sale Product: Mead & Honey Recipe: Alfresco Dining Editor’s Picks: Mom’s Day Ideas Gardening: Save the Crapes! Pet of the Month: Stan
35
50
66
6
house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
FEATURES 35 Memorial Day Weekend Fun 44 Patriotic Tributes 50 A Smart Redo in Cypress 60 Heights-Area Home Tours 66 Open Days Garden Tours
3 4 5
W
H O M E
1 9 T H
S T
H O U S T O N
F U R N I S H I N G S
713.869.1414
&
H E I G H T S
A C C E S S O R I E S
Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday 1pm-5pm 7
EDITOR’S NOTE
W
e’re celebrating all things spring in this issue. For starters, that means getting outside before the temps go Texas-style high. Barbara Canetti presents “Open Days” to visit four beautiful private gardens in this program established by The Garden Conservancy. Check out a multifamily landscape in Independence Heights, a three-acre habitat in Spring Branch, a pollinating and shade garden in the Heights and a naturalized cottage garden in West University. All are gorgeous! “Gardening” from horticulturist Linda B. Gay at The Arbor Gate reminds us to allow crape myrtles to grow as Mother Nature would have it, and that’s without pruning these naturally sculptured plants. Gay provides tips on how to treat crape myrtles with proper care…and asks that you spread the word. Go alfresco with your next dining experience. Robin Barr Sussman in “Recipe” offers great patio options, as well as the secret ingredients from La Table Houston for its refreshing “La Provence” cocktail. Take in spring home tours presented by the Houston Heights Association and the Garden Oaks Civic Club. Canetti maps out the locations, as well as walks you through “A Smart Redo” by Morning Star Builders. The results of the 10-month renovation are exactly what the owners wanted. Spring brings buzzing bees in the air. Mary Chavoustie talks to the proprietors of both Rohan Meadery, Texas’ oldest
Now accepting Credit Cards-
Over 30 Years of Experience on Residential & Commercial Properties. • Dramatic Uplighting • Delicate Moonlighting • Feature Lighting
• Mercury Vapor Lighting • Low Voltage Lighting • LED Lighting
• Accent Lighting • Mosquito Misting • Maintenance
FREE DESIGN & ESTIMATE
PUBLISHER ........................Mike Harrison, Ph.D. ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ........Susie Reisenbigler EDITOR ........................................Barbara Kuntz CONTRIBUTING WRITERS.................................... Shirley Barr, Anne Breux, Barbara Canetti, Lindsay Canright, Marsha Canright, Mary Chavoustie, Sandra Cook, Susan Fox, Linda B. Gay, Joshua Kournegay, Paris Permenter & John Bigley, Whitney Radley, Robin Barr Sussman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS.................... Brad Coleman, Miro Dvorscak, Linda B. Gay, Kohanowski Studio, Dragana Harris, Ben Hill, Kayta Horner, Joshua Kournegay, Morris Malakoff, Paula Murphy, Julie Soefer, Becca Wright ART DIRECTOR ............................Robert Coplin ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES .................................... ............................Christina Garza, Gia Montalto PRINTING ........................................RR Donnelly
meadery; and Lazy Bee Honey Co., where “each bee is born, raised and works in Texas,” just like the owners. “The Art of an Estate Sale” by Marsha Canright guides you through the tsunami of spring-cleaning. She offers DIY tips, suggestions from professional agents and even auction advice. Bonus: Lindsay Canright points out shopping do’s and don’ts for estate sale-goers. And get ready: Summer is upon us. Paris Permenter and John Bigley take everyone on a whirlwind trip of fun Memorial Day getaway ideas for May, from beachcombing to tubing to exploring historic destinations. Take a break of another kind during the long weekend to pay your respects to our fallen heroes, as outlined by Shirley Barr in “Patriotic Tributes.” After all, that’s what this holiday is truly about. Also during May, don’t forget about Mom. Indulge her with some of our ideas in “Editor’s Picks” to make her day extra-special. As with the change in seasons, so are changes in our lives — including mine. I write this last “Editor’s Note” to go forth with moving to another city, taking care of an elderly parent and spending LOTS of time with my darling grandson. It’s been my pleasure working with the family/staff at HH&H, as well as the gifted and talented writers and photographers. I extend my sincere thanks and wish everyone the very best. Cheers, Barbara
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 2018, all rights reserved. HH&H is distributed at most Houston area Randalls and HEB stores.
P.O. Box 131845 • Houston, Texas 77219 (713) 523-6523 • info@houseandhomeonline.com
8
house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
9
Laguna Pools
Quality. Custom Pools since 1973
1010 Greenbusch Road • Katy, Texas 77494 • 281.392.8833 • lagunapools.com
10 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
11
Clean Out • Clear Out • Close Out Sale
Everything must go! Mosaics from $199 SF Stone & Porcelain Floor Tiles from $150 SF Decoratives, Medallions, Antique Furniture & Fixtures
Marble & Tile Collection 1285 N. Post Oak Rd., Ste. 100 • Houston, TX 77055
713-956-8444 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC • Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 12 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Custom Security Fence & Iron Works
Quality work at competitive prices Iron, Wood, and Chain Link Fencing • Stairs • Handrails Automatic Gate Operator, Keypads & Gate Operator Repair
Serving the Greater Houston area for over 35 years
281-219-1400 www.customsecurityfence.com info@customsecurityfence.com 13
APRIL 2018
CALENDAR Compiled by bARbARA KUNTZ
Houston’s Art Car Parade rolls through town on April 14. Photo by © Morris Malakoff
DESIGN/INTERIORS APRIL 6-8: HOUSTON HEIGHTS ASSOCIATION’S SPRING HOME & GARDEN TOUR, noon-6 p.m. both days A candlelight dinner April 6 kicks off the event following a theme of “Boots, Bling & Bingo!” with reserved tickets offering a silent auction and sneak preview of the homes. The public tour, noon-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, includes houses displaying a diverse mix of architectural styles and inviting gardens. www.houstonheights.org APRIL 7: “APRIL DROOLS” HOME TOURS, every weekend during April Johnson Development Corp. presents this Houston-area tour showcasing designs from renowned builders. More than 500 homes in 14 communities are on view. www.houstonhometour.com APRIL 7-8: RICE DESIGN ALLIANCE ARCHITECTURE TOUR, 1-6 p.m. both days “Balance: Celebrating Women in Design” is the theme of this
43rd annual event. Six projects located citywide demonstrate female architects’ leadership to build a better Houston. Tickets for this selfdriven tour offer access to all locations, as well as to the RDA tour app that provides detailed audio curation. Rice Design Alliance, www.ricedesignalliance.org APRIL 10: “DESIGN IN BLOOM” Get ready for a day of style and design with lectures, book signings, floral demonstrations and more as Flower Magazine sponsors this event. Featured presenters include interior designer and author Charlotte Moss, award-winning architect Gil Schafer, lifestyle entrepreneur India Hicks and master floral designer Remco Van Vliet. Following the panel discussion, guests are invited to peruse pop-up shops and attend a closing mixer. The Houston Design Center, 7026 Old Katy Road, www.thehoustondesigncenter.com
14 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
EVENTS THROUGH APRIL 5: 41ST INTERNATIONAL WATERMEDIA EXHIBITION The Watercolor Art SocietyHouston brings watercolorists from across the globe to this highly anticipated show, which attracts art collectors and enthusiasts. 1601 W. Alabama St., 713-9429966, www.watercolorhouston.org APRIL 7: THE BUFFALO MARKET, starting at 5 p.m. This curated event showcases a group of artisans and craftsmen in a variety of industries that include leather and wood, coffee, a full barbershop, custom apparel, shoe and sneaker brands, motorcycle enthusiasts and candle artisans. 832-868-6636, 4715 Main St. APRIL 7-8: 13TH ANNUAL WOODLANDS WATERWAY ARTS FESTIVAL, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday More than 200 juried artists, live musical performances on four stages, children’s hands-
on arts activities, culinary demonstrations, a student art scholarship exhibit plus food and beverages from a variety of popular restaurants are all part of this extravaganza. Town Center and Town Green Park, The Woodlands,www.thewoodlands.com APRIL 7-8: 37TH HOUSTON HOME SHOW, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday Home improvement professionals are on hand to help you with outdoor living projects, kitchen and bath remodels, window and floor options and decor. The big show includes a “Foodie Spotlight” hosted by Cleverly Stone and sponsored by Built-In Appliances offering the opportunity to sample the flavors of Houston’s best restaurants. Use code HOUSE at checkout for $3 off admission at www.texashome andgarden.com. George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas
APRIL 7-8: SPRING GIFT MARKET, 10 a.m.6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday Get ready for the holidays and other celebrations by shopping at Katy’s largest gift market with 200-plus vendors. Presented by Home for the Holidays Gift Market. The Katy Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Lane, 281-788-4297, www.homefortheholidaysgift market.com
THROUGH APRIL 22: FOTOFEST 2018 BIENNIAL “India — Contemporary Photographic and New Media Art” is the theme of this year’s exhibition featuring works by 48 contemporary artists from India. Participating galleries and other spaces span the Houston area. home.fotofest.org
APRIL 14: 31ST HOUSTON ART CAR PARADE, starting at 2 p.m. They’re mean, sometimes not so lean, but they’re always zany and fun. The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art again presents this spectacular event, the largest art car parade in the world. An entire weekend is dedicated to “Drive to Create.” www.thehoustonartcarparade.com
APRIL 23: SAWYER YARDS’ SPRING BIANNUAL ART SHOW & CHARITY AUCTION, 5-9 p.m. The stroll and auction welcomes visitors to explore the campus’ studio buildings, including Silver Street Studios, Spring Street Studios, Summer Street Studios, The Silos at Sawyer Yards and Winter Street Studios. Meet 200 artists showing a fantastic array of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glass, mosaics, photography, ceramics, mixed media and jewelry. Participating artists donate a portion of sales to the Glassell School of Art for a student scholarship to support the continued development of a Houston artist. www.sawyeryards.com
APRIL 14-15: JAPAN FESTIVAL HOUSTON, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. both days Learn about the rich cultural heritage of Japan through traditional and contemporary performances of Japanese music, dance and martial arts, as well as plenty of Japaneseinspired food. Check out demonstrations and displays of Ikebana flower arrangement, tea ceremonies, origami, shodo calligraphy, bonsai and more. Hermann Park, 713-963-0121, www.houstonjapanfest.org APRIL 15: DISCOVERY GREEN’S 10TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Take in multiple cultural performances, live music, games and fun around every corner. Joining the celebration will be park founders and children who have grown up with the park in a special retrospective presentation. 1500 McKinney St., www.discoverygreen.com/celebration
OUTDOOR COOKING AND LIVING AT ITS FINEST TEXAS PIT CRAFTERS CAN DESIGN AND BUILD YOUR CUSTOM OUTDOOR KITCHEN
Outdoor Kitchens • Patio Covers and Pergolas • Stainless steel Grills—built by TPC • Stainless steel Pits and Smokers —built by TPC • Pizza Ovens and South American Grills • Seaside Casual Furniture Manufacturer of Gas Grills, Burners, Smokers/Pits & Outdoor Kitchens Product and Design Service • Visit our Showroom in Tomball
281-356-2168
•
www.texaspitcrafters.com
ANTIQUES/VINTAGE THROUGH AUG. 19: “PEACOCK IN THE DESERT: THE ROYAL ARTS OF JUDHPUR, INDIA” Through some 250 objects from Indian courtly life, including lavish ceremonial objects, finely crafted arms and armor, jewels, intricately carved furnishings and more, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston hosts this exhibition. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, 1001 Bissonnet St., www.mfah.org
15
OUT OF TOWN APRIL 2-7: 50TH ANNUAL SPRING ORIGINAL ROUND TOP ANTIQUES FAIR Get ready to shop until you drop from vendors across the nation offering everything imaginable under the sun. Make it your shopping spree for that perfect find. Round Top and surrounding cities, www.roundtoptexasantiques.com
Celebrate Earth Day at Discovery Green on April 22. Photo by Kayta Horner
EARTH DAY 2018 It’s countdown to this year’s Earth Day on April 22 following the focus of “End Plastic Pollution.” “From poisoning and injuring marine life to disrupting human hormones, from littering our beaches and landscapes to clogging our waste streams and landfills, the exponential growth of plastics is now threatening the survival of our planet,” the national website notes (www.earthday.org). In response, several Houston-based organizations, centers and parks are hosting Earth Day activities. APRIL 14: MEMORIAL PARK RECOVERY, 9 a.m.-noon Kudos to alumni of the Student Conservation Association and Exelon volunteers as they work in a private effort to restore Memorial Park after Hurricane Harvey by planting native trees, removing invasive species and clearing litter and storm debris. The effort is just one of 60 projects for Earth Day in honor of 60 years of SCA. www.thesca.org APRIL 21: HOUSTON ARBORETUM & NATURE CENTER, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come enjoy the outdoors and earth-conscious activities like guided nature hikes, crafts made from recycled materials, face painting and scavenger hunts. Remember to bring all of your plastic flowerpots and plant trays to the arboretum for recycling at this free event. 183 W. Loop South, 713-681-8433, www.houstonarboretum.org APRIL 22: EARTH DAY HOUSTON DISCOVERY GREEN, starting at noon Houston’s Earth Day is a day of celebration, inspiration and action to save the earth. The event, presented in party by Green Mountain Energy and the Citizen’s Environmental Coalition, features more than 100 displays, exhibits and booths on topics ranging from alternate energy to recycling methods, an Urban Harvest Farmers Market, the Discovery Green Flea, Canned Acoustica and more. Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St., www.discoverygreen.com/celebration 16 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
APRIL 5-8: TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® GULF COAST 2018 SERIES For the first time, a fleet of tall ships race along the Galveston coastline for an exciting “Parade of Sail.” This familyfriendly event, seen from Seawall Boulevard, showcases the city’s rich maritime past through educational programs and tours of and trips on the historic sailing vessels. Produced by Galveston Historical Foundation in partnership with Tall Ships America. www.tallshipsgalveston.com APRIL 6: MCLAREN’S ANTIQUES & INTERIORS POP-UP DINNER, 5:30 p.m McLaren’s in Round Top invites you to shop late and eat great at this three-course dinner presented by A La Carte Events & Catering. The evening includes local wine pairings and live entertainment. Book now! 1745 Highway 237 North, 917741-7041, www.mclarensantiquesandinteriors.com APRIL 14: 5TH ANNUAL SCHULENBURG SAUSAGEFEST, begins at 11 a.m. A short parade inaugurates this sausage-making contest. Enjoy music by The Moravians, Czehcaholics, Mark Halata & Texavia and Los Kolaches, as well as dancing in the street, arts and crafts, children’s activities and hog calling and sausage tossing. Historic Downtown Schulenburg,
979-743-4514 or 866-504-5294, www.shulenburgsausagefest.com APRIL 27-28: COME & TASTE IT CRAFT BEER, WINE & ART FESTIVAL Head to Gonzales, the “Birthplace of Texas Independence,” for this event, which includes a citywide garage sale and classic car show. The fun continues every Friday and until the Fourth of July with the city’s summer concert series. 888-672-1095, www.gonzalestx.travel
UPCOMING MAY 5: CINCO DE MAYO Mariachis, Mexican food and, of course, tequila all around town celebrate this holiday. Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico's independence day. Mexican independence is celebrated Sept.16. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over the French forces of Napoleon III on May 5, 1862, at the Battle of Puebla. Salud! MAY 5-6: FAYETTEVILLE ARTWALK, 10 a.m.5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday Sip and stroll while you buy fine art on Fayetteville’s Historic Square. Also enjoy food and music. Presented by Arts for Rural Texas. 979-378-2113, www.artsforruraltexas.org MAY 5-6, 12-13: 44TH ANNUAL GALVESTON HISTORIC HOMES TOUR Galveston Historical Foundation opens the doors to architectural history through public tours of privately owned homes during its annual Galveston Historic Homes Tour, this year themed “Aged to Perfection.” Large, small and everything in between, the 2018 tour has something for everyone! www.galvestonhistory.org
17
PROJECT
An estate sale offers a lifetime of items, large and small.
THE ART OF AN ESTATE SALE DIY Tips, Professional Assistance and Auctioneers Help You Through the Process By Marsha Canright
A
n estate sale is the tsunami of spring-cleaning. It doesn’t necessarily have to follow a death, but it technically means you are selling the greater part of the contents of a home. “Some people are downsizing from a family home to a high-rise or lightening their load before a major move,” says Jennifer Beegle, who works for her parents' business, Margie Beegle Estate Sales. It may fall to you to manage a family member’s estate with a houseful of items you do not want.
DIY ESTATE SALE Whatever the circumstances, an estate sale can turn a mountain of possessions into a bundle of cash, but proper pricing, staging and managing make a huge difference in how lucrative a sale is. If you 18 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
are thinking of handling your own sale, here is a checklist of musts by local experts that may keep you from making costly mistakes. 1. Clean and organize all items. Individually assess the condition and value of each one. You may need the assistance of a professional, like a personal property appraiser. Ideally you should create an inventory of each piece to be sold. 2. Price the items. For higher-priced possessions, be prepared to show “why” they are priced the way they are. For example, if a painting has a history of being sold at auction for more than the amount asked, make sure you can back that up with auction results for potential buyers. 3. Determine the best timing.
19
Photo by J. Thomas "Jay" Ford for Margie Beegle Estate Sales
Photo by J. Thomas "Jay" Ford for Margie Beegle Estate Sales
Saturday and Sunday are prime selling days.
5. Adver tise appropriately. Put photographs online for potential buyers.
“There are many good agents in Houston, so who you hire is partly about personal preference, because not all personalities click,” she says. And, there are agents who promise a good return only to vanish without paying. Davis has a few tips on how to select an agent who you can work with and trust.
6. The day of the sale. Arrange security, have sufficient helpers and be clear about what forms of payment you are willing to accept.
1. Talk to friends. Find out from friends who have had previous experiences with estate liquidators or have attended an estate sale and ask for their advice.
7. Be aware. You need to alert shoppers to potential hazards in the home to prevent any injury to invited guests.
2. Do your homework. Check the Internet for www.estatesales.net, www.estatesales.org or www.estatesales.com. Look at consumer sites like Yelp for customer input on estate sale managers and check out the Better Business Bureau for reports of sketchy companies.
4. Stage items. Show them in the most positive light.
PROFESSIONAL HELP If this seems like more work than you want to do, you may hire a professional agent to manage the overall sale. “I believe it’s in the best interest of most people to hire a smart and honest professional to handle the sale,” Beegle says. “You may not be the best judge of what is valuable. A small piece of art in the attic or a strange mid-century chair in the garage may be the financial treasure of the sale.” Most estate sale planners meet with you at no charge and make recommendations about the best way to proceed. If an agent agrees to manage your sale, he or she normally charges 35 percent of the profits or more, but in exchange the pros do 100 percent of the work and cover the costs of conducting the sale such as security, advertising, workers and other related costs. As in any business, agents have different styles, and although many are ethical, some are not, says Curtis Ann Davis, who owns and manages Arbor Antiques Services, an estate sale business.
20 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
3. Interview several prospective agents. Ask questions like: How long have you been in business? Do you have local referrals? Do you have a customer base? Ask for a copy of their liability insurance and bond. You may also want to know how staff members are trained and if they are certified appraisers or use certified appraisers. Possibly the most important step in choosing the right agent for you is to attend estate sales and see how different agents manage their sales. “The wrong agent can decimate an estate by having items that are priced too high or too low, which happens when the person has no idea of the real value of the items” Beegle says. Attending sales can be done on any given weekend and doesn't take that long. Be sure to take a note pad and spend the morning
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 Walk-in tubs available Call for information
Houston Area Distributor for Finlandia Saunas
Serving the building industry over 30 years
1549 Hwy 36 North • Rosenberg, Texas • 281.342.8775 • 866.808.8827
www.marathonspaandbath.com
21
as a “secret shopper.” Beegle recommends: 1. Notice whether employees have name tags and are easy to identify. 2. Is the house full, but not too full of shoppers? 3. Are people buying things? Look for sold tags and items on a sold table. 4. Talk to workers and ask them questions. 5. Take note of the setup: A beautiful presentation is key to getting top-dollar. “If you walk into a home and there are only a few shoppers, the setup is unattractive and you can’t find an employee to help you, this might not be a company that puts your interests first,” she says.
AUCTIONS If you are thinking about an auction to dispose of property, you should have a minimum of 15 to 20 quality items, says Jon Vines of Gallery Auctions Inc. He manages a weekly Monday auction in Houston. “We jury our items. As a rule, you won’t find boxes of Tupperware or old linens at an auction,” Vines says. “An on-site estate sale aims to sell every item, even the half-used cleaning products, but auctions are a different venue.” When callers approach Vines for assistance, he asks that they take photographs of the merchandise and email them to him. Long experience makes it possible for him to make a quick assessment and a recommendation to the seller. If you are considering an auction, Vines recommends you attend several to get a better idea how they work and the value of items. Also, do research on the Internet to see how similar items are selling. “Make sure you set a limit and stick to it,” he says.
DIFFERENT ANIMALS A kaleidoscope of curious items is the art of the estate sale.
RESOURCES Arbor Antiques Services Inc. 1503 TX 237 Round Top www.arborantiques.com Margie Beegle Estate Sales 713-478-3293 www.margiebeeglesales.com
Gallery Auctions Inc. 13310 Luthe Road 281-931-0100 www.galleryauctions.com Lyn Huck Estate & Appraisal Services 5233 Bellaire Blvd. 713-416-3916 www.lynhuck.com
22 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Keep in mind that garage sales, estate sales and auctions are all different animals. A garage sale is usually a Saturday morning affair when a person sells items that he or she doesn’t want anymore. An estate sale is a two- or three-day event with many more items, most often a lifetime of possessions that sell for about 50 percent of their retail value. While bargaining is part of the fun at garage sales, it is not generally allowed at estate sales, although all estate sale companies have discount policies and most are on their respective websites. Always ask a worker if you don't see a sign up notifying shoppers of a certain discount being applied when you are attending the sale. Estate sale managers want to maximize profit for the seller and value for the buyer, Beegle says. “It’s important to get the right company because an estate sale is usually a once-in-a-lifetime event and there are no do-overs.”
ESTATE SALE EXPERTS
AN ECLECTIC INVENTORY OF ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS
ARBOR ANTIQUES SERVICES, INC.
No estate is too large or too small; we customize each sale to meet the specific needs and desires of our clients. We are well-established in the estate sale business and can provide references on request. We market our services and your merchandise through in-home sales, extensive mailing lists, a custom designed collectors’ directory, internet sales, and our on-line shop. 1503 N. STATE HWY. 237 • ROUND TOP, TEXAS
arborantiques.com/estate-sale
Full Service Mill Shop Jambs, Hand Stripping, build doors and tables out of antique lumber Large Inventory of Antique Doors Antique Door Hardware Flooring Beaded Wood
Great Victorian doors for a pantry
409 St. Francis, Gonzales, Texas 78629 • 830-672-2428 Thurs.-Sat., 9-5 open to the public, Tues.-Wed. by appointment or chance www.discoverys.net • swk@discoverys.net
23
Clean, well-kept personal items are good sellers.
Photo by J. Thomas "Jay" Ford for Margie Beegle Estate Sales
SHOPPING TIPS FOR “BURIED TREASURE” By LinDsay Canright We’ve all been there: You’re at a friend’s house and notice a new, uber-fabulous light fixture or slipper chair or console table. When you ask where on earth they found it, your friend says with an envy-inducing nod of the head: “I got it last weekend at an estate sale.” Attention all deal hunters: If you choose to sleep in on Saturday mornings, you’re also sleeping on the one-of-a-kind goodies available at Houston-area estate sales. It’s time to wake up and smell the bargains. With a fistful of cash, comfy walking shoes and these expert tips, fabulous deals on fantastic to funky finds are only a car ride away.
MAKE A PLAN There are a bevy of helpful online resources to check out, like Craigslist (www.craigslist.com) and Estatesales.net (www.estatesales.net/TX/Houston) and www.estatesales.org/estatesales/tx/houston. Local estate sale management companies also send out newsletters to their followers. Some listings post images of the merchandise as a preview. If you fall in love with a piece you see online, remember you might not be the only one. It would be smart to make this sale your first stop of the day. If you’re planning to attend more than one sale, it’s helpful to plot out a route. If you’re not gunning for one item or one sale in particular, organize your list by neighborhood and distance from your home, noting the starting times of each sale.
WHAT TO BRING, WHAT NOT TO BRING Knowing what to bring and what to leave behind can save you time and hassle and allows you to focus on the hunt. Leave behind large bags, which may not be permitted, and find a sitter for small children. “It's best not to bring children to an estate sale; many sales don't allow them. If children are allowed, teach them that their hands belong behind their backs and keep them with you at all times,” says Curtis Ann Davis, an estate sale specialist. Do bring your plan of attack, whether handwritten or electronic; a small wallet or bag with cash and cards; a tape measurer and measurements if you’re shopping for a specific piece; and a small flashlight just in case, for example, you want to check the condition of an amazing potting table in the far corner of the storage shed.
24 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
ARRIVE EARLY, BUT NOT TOO EARLY You wouldn’t show up to Williams-Sonoma hours before the time the store opened. Estate sales list hours for a reason and showing up long before the listed start is a definite etiquette no-no. “There is usually a line. So, yes, if you want to be first in the door, consider arriving a little early,” Davis says. “But we do not allow early birds in the door until the sale opens.” If you find a dreamy trinket that you just can’t live without, Jennifer Beegle of Margie Beegle Estate Sales advises that you pick it up and hold onto it. “When you see something you like, pick it up. If you're sure you must have it, take it to the sold table, so you won't have to carry it around,” she says. If it’s a larger item like a piece of furniture, don’t wait to find the person in charge to stake your claim. On the first day of multiday sales, you will probably end up paying top dollar. Davis reminds eager buyers to remember their manners. “Be courteous to other shoppers and don’t be grabby. There is something for everyone,” she says.
TIME A BARGAIN In the world of estate sales, the early bird gets the best stuff and the latecomer gets the bargain. While it may be appropriate in certain situations, for the most part, Beegle advises against haggling. If there is a deal to be made, it’s in the dwindling hours of a sale when there are price reductions on items that haven’t sold.
DON’T JUDGE A CHAIR BY THE FABRIC Outdated fabric can mean scoring a homerun deal. Instead of letting a crazy print distract you, look at the lines of the piece and check for a maker’s mark. An ugly chair might be one trip to High Fashion Fabrics away from utter greatness.
STORAGE SPACES = BURIED TREASURES Buyers may be making a beeline for the living room and bedrooms, but if they’re open, make sure to check the garage, the attic and other storage areas. Some of the best finds lay hidden in far-reaching corners, so put your flashlight to good use.
AUCTIONEERS - LIQUIDATORS - APPRAISERS
For top-quality wholesale merchandise at the low prices you can only find at auction, visit Worstell Auction Co., Houston's largest general merchandise auction facility. With professionally run auctions once a month, Worstell Auction Co. provides all the services you'd expect from a first-rate auctioneer. No minimums no reserves. Auctions the 2nd Saturday of every month!
WORSTELL AUCTION COMPANY
713-946-8888 www.worstellauctionco.com
25
PRODUCT
Photos courtesy of Rohan Meadery
THE LAND OF MEAD & HONEY Texas Companies Offer the Best of the Best of These Products By Mary Chavoustie
J
ohn and Wendy Rohan are the owners/vintners of Rohan Meadery, a small family-owned winery located between Round Top and La Grange. Their award-winning medals come from the Lone Star International Wine Competition, as well as from an equally prestigious competition in the New York Finger Lakes, testaments to their hard work and stellar products. Yet, John is quick to mention it’s not all about the honey. “People love to come here, yes, for the meads and the honey wine, but they really enjoy being able to bring their families to the country. The farm animals — a herd of Nubian goats, Southdown sheep, assorted chickens, guineas and most recently, two playful Great Pyrenees pups — they win the popular vote as seen each week by the Instagram posts,” John says. Rohan is Texas’ oldest meadery, a fitting status as John’s great-great grandfather, Frank Rohan, immigrated from Moravia (Czech Republic) and settled just south of the meadery and Blissful Folly Farm, where the Rohans call home. John continues to create mead in a Czech style, resulting in a crisp, 26 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
clean and slightly drier end product. Their “Honeymoon” Old World-style mead (a sweet mead) is balanced by a delicate oaking in bourbon. Fruit trees and assorted berry bushes spread across the acreage. Additional Blanc du Bois vines, an American hybrid grape created in 1968, were recently added to the vineyard for the production of honey wine. Presently, one and a-half acres are nurturing dry Tempranillo grapes, while another acre is planted with Black Spanish, a varietal often known as Lenoir, well suited for Texas summers. Of course, all could not be possible without the bees, the less-aggressive Italian bees in particular, for Blissful Folly Farm. In the summer, bees at the farm number 100,000-200,000, while winter reduces their numbers to the 20,000s. Rohan Meadery’s Tasting Room is open noon-6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Alternate weekends, talented musicians add to the setting, along with a pizza truck to curb hunger pains. Rohan Meadery, La Grange, 979-249-5652, www.rohanmeadery.com
27
C
hristi and Nathan Wade inherited two hives left on the property they purchased in Washington County. Little did they envision their beekeeping dreams would lead to store shelves across the Lone Star State with the brand Lazy Bee Honey Co. Unlike other beekeepers who lease their bees to other parts of the country, the Wades are proud to say within their hives, “Each bee is born, raised and works in Texas, just like the Lazy Bee owners!” Honey in its raw form has natural anti-inflammatory, anti-
Photos courtesy of Lazy Bee Honey Co.
bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties, hence the historic and present-day belief that honey benefits healing. Lazy Bee Honey Co. is proud to produce 100 percent pure, raw, all-natural local Texas honey. Raw honey tastes less sweet than the store-bought, pasteurized varieties and for many, just a spoonful brings back good memories. “We usually have someone that remarks, ‘My Grandpa had a beehive’ and then begins to share their story with us,” says Christi, “or they tell us with a smile, ‘This is what real honey tastes like!’” “There are times of the years when the bees need to be fed,” Christi further explains. “We help by feeding them their own honey or sugar water with essential oils that help sustain them through the next few months.” If you’re looking to add true organic honey to your lifestyle, you might have to wait. Honeybees can travel up to two miles to gather pollen. Horsemint and milkweed are both excellent sources, but “convincing” the bees to avoid a nearby pesticidesprayed pasture is not an option. Since 2010, the USDA has continued to finalize what organic standards are specific to honey to allow beekeepers to qualify for the label. In addition to their pure raw honey, Lazy Bee Honey Co. markets gourmet honey jams and honey butters, one of which was a Top 25 Finalist in HEB’s Quest for Texas Best Contest. Honey Peanut Spread (aka peanut butter with honey!) is a favorite of all ages. Lazy Bee Honey products are available at area retailers and farmers markets across Texas. Lazy Bee Honey Co.™, Burton, 979-661-6504, www.lazybeehoneyco.com Want to learn more about beekeeping? Central Texas Beekeepers Association offers family-friendly, full-day beginning beekeeping classes.
28 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Houston Strong Since 1974 METRO WHOLESALE APPLIANCE
2014 Almeda-Genoa Rd. • Houston, TX 77047 713.433.7248 • www.metrowholesale.net
Make A Bold Statement With Distinctive Lighting Contractor Pricing To The Public Largest & Finest Selection Since 1974
The people you have known & trusted for over 44 years
Lighting Your Way® Since 1974
6265 Cypress Creek Parkway • Houston, Texas 77069 281-444-9299 • www.lightinghouston.com
29
RECIPE
The Grove in Discovery Green Park. Photo courtesy of The Grove
Del Frisco’s Steakhouse’s new patio. Photo courtesy of Brad Coleman
ALFRESCO DINING Enjoy a Pretty Outdoor Patio while the Weather is Just Right By roBin Barr sussMan
S
expertly made margarita and one of the interior Mexican dishes like ahi tuna ceviche. 1600 Westheimer Road, 713-524-7744, www.hugosrestaurant.net
THE GROVE This Discovery Green gem combines contemporary architecture and new American cuisine with the great outdoors. The soaring light-filled restaurant draws locals and guests from nearby hotels for its chic ambiance. Dine on the downstairs wraparound patio for a great view of the park and the city skyline or reserve the upstairs deck for a private event. 1611 Lamar St., 713-337-7321, www.thegrovehouston.com
HOPDODDY BURGER BAR Burgers and shakes are worth the wait on the patio at this popular Austin import — especially at the Rice Village location. Inventive burgers run the gamut from “Angus Beef Magic” (with mushrooms and goat cheese) to bison bacon and ahi tuna with sprouts. Besides gratis cucumber water, sip good wines and craft brew. 5510 Morningside Drive, 281-557-2337, and several other locations, www.hopdoddy.com
IL GIARDINO Savor the spring weather at Hotel Granduca’s still-new Il Giardino, a casual alfresco experience featuring light Italian fare, wines and Italian beer. Set within the hotel’s lush gardens, the shaded terrace overlooks the hotel’s beautiful saltwater swimming pool. 1080 Uptown Park Blvd., 713-418-1000, www.granducahouston.com
DEL FRISCO’S STEAKHOUSE This swanky Galleria steak house recently got a big makeover, including a new rooftop patio. Catch cool breezes and the Post Oak Boulevard treetop views while noshing on oysters on the half shell, Del’s jumbo lump crab cake, broiled lobster tail and prime steaks galore. 5061 Westheimer Road, 713-355-2600, www.delfriscos.com
HUGO’S The spacious, ivy-covered patio with flowering plants and a gurgling fountain is the place to be on a breezy day for lunch, brunch or dinner. Even though you’re on bustling Westheimer, the tall white stucco fence keeps it quiet. You can’t miss with an
LOCAL FOODS Committed to delicious and locally sourced ingredients, Local Foods showcases bountiful seasonal salads, fresh soups, creative sandwiches and dinner specials. The newest Local Foods in the Heights Mercantile sports an expansive patio facing the Heights
pring is prime time for alfresco dining in Houston, and no matter your zip code, a cool patio waits. Whether you’re looking for something shorts-and-flip-flops casual or a little more upscale, relax on one of these classic picks.
30 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Brenner’s On The Bayou/Blue Bar. Photo courtesy of Landry’s Inc.
bike trail and the brand’s first freestanding juice bar. 714 Yale St., 713-360-6133, and multiple locations, www.houstonlocalfoods.com BRENNER’S STEAKHOUSE ON THE BAYOU Hidden off Memorial Drive along Buffalo Bayou, this pastoral setting is a great escape from the frenetic urban jungle. Overlooking the sprawling green lawn, woods and cascading waterfall, the semicovered patio is the place to relish steaks, chops and seafood. For small plates and cocktails, the outdoor Blue Bar is relaxing with cushy couches, small tables and a live music program. 1 Birdsall St., 713-868-4444, www.brennerssteakhouse.com ARMADILLO PALACE Kick back on Goode Co.’s patio with a selection of craft beers, savory bites (think pork and green chile empanadas, fried pork skins, guacamole and cornmeal-crusted oysters) — and live music. The massive shaded backyard space boasts an outdoor stage, communal dining tables and plenty of decorative Texas memorabilia. Look for crawfish by the pound when in season. 5015 Kirby Dr., 713-526-9700, www.thearmadillopalace.com TINY BOXWOODS Garden gabbing friends and ladies-who-lunch adore this chic cafe nestled on the grounds of the Thompson + Hanson nursery near River Oaks. There’s even room for the kiddos to play in the perfectly manicured grass. A simple menu of American favorites, including Cobb salad, thin-crust pizza, sandwiches with French twists and “the” chocolate chip cookies, keeps the whole group happy. Movies on the lawn until June start at dusk. Check out the website for details! 3614 W. Alabama St., 713-622-4224, and other locations, www.tinyboxwoods.com
31
RECIPE
Photo by Becca Wright
LA PROVENCE COCKTAIL Feel like lounging on your own patio? Here’s a beautiful spring-like sip inspired by the La Provence cocktail at La Table Houston restaurant and bar (1800 Post Oak Blvd., 713-439-1000, www.latablehouston.com), which also sports a chic patio for an alfresco respite.
Ingredients
Ice 2 ounces Hendrick’s gin 1 ounce fresh lemon juice 1.5 ounces simple syrup 2-4 dashes of lavender bitters Fresh lavender sprigs for garnish
Method In a shaker with ice, add all ingredients except lavender sprig and shake to combine. Strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a fresh lavender sprig. Yield: 1 cocktail
32 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
We install peace of mind. We install more TANKLESS WATER HEATERS in one week than most plumbers do in an entire year. Please check our references:
TANKLESS WATER HEATERS
832-673-0909
Sh amro ck R oo f i n g Affordable Repairs Superior Replacements FREE Wind/Hail Inspections
FREE ESTIMATES • shamrockroofingtx.com
2 8 1 -3 9 3 -77 7 7
33
Tile Center
Call Now for Details
713-944-8453
GRANITE Starting at $
8.99/SF
TILE Starting at $
1.69/SF
VISIT US AT ONE OF OUR 3 LOCATIONS 8907 Gulf Fwy, Houston, TX 77017 9730 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77074 9810 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77037
www.TileCenterUSA.com 34 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Memorial Day weekend
ESCAPES COOL GETAWAYS FOR FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN
ON THE COVER: Come visit and tube the spring-fed San Marcos River Memorial Day-Labor Day! www.TourSanMarcos.com
Visit Chappell Hill
“Official State of Texas” 2018 Bluebonnet Festival Saturday 9AM-6PM Sunday 10AM-5PM www.chappellhillhistoricalsociety.com
April 14 & 15, 2018
Hundreds of vendors and live music performances
Historical Society Museum
Located at 9220 Poplar Street, Chappell Hill, TX
Free admission and seasonal exhibits Wednesday - Saturday 10AM - 4PM, Sunday 1 - 4 PM www.facebook.com/ ChappellHillMuseum for udpates
36 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
“Into the raging storm: Texas, Washington County, and the Great War 1917-1919" Exhibit commemorating the 100th Anniversary of World War I a collaboration with the Brenham Heritage Museum.
May 12 - Nov. 11, 2018
Historical Building Tours available by appointment
DISH WAREHOUSE Dish Warehouse is Texas’ largest Fiesta® outlet. Come shop in our 4000 sq ft showroom, that showcases both first & second quality Fiesta® dinnerware as well as Tervis® & Bentley®
903-567-7733 • 19249 Interstate 20• canton, tx www.dishwarehousecantontx.com
LIBERTY BELL ANTIQUES Specializing in high end European and American antiques, gifts and decor. 14363 Liberty Street Montgomery, TX 77356 (936) 597-4606
www.libertybellantiques.com
APPRAISALS • ESTATE SALES • INTERIOR DESIGN
ART MEETS FLORAL April 27-29, 2018 • 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. $5.00 per person and 2 for 1 with the code “FLORENCE”
HISTORIC MUSEUM • EVENTS
Great Girls Weekend in McKinney! Special Rate offered at Holiday Inn, 3220 Craig Drive. 469-952-2044. Tell them you are coming to the Heard-Craig ART MEETS FLORAL event and they will apply discounted rate. Partial funding courtesy of the McKinney Convention and Visitors Bureau 205 West Hunt St. McKinney, TX 75069 • 972-569-6909 • www.heardcraig.org 37
BANDERA Grab your cowboy hat and head to this town known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” Memorial Day weekend starts with the Bandera Pro Rodeo, a PRCA-sanctioned event with bull riding, bareback riding and more. The action continues with weekly rodeos throughout the season at 2E Twin Elm Guest Ranch, one of the many dude ranches in the region, where you can enjoy Western fun, horseback riding and campfires. Or you might opt to put on your boots, crease your best jeans and two-step at dance halls like the 11th Street Cowboy Bar, The Texas State Aquarium’s splash park in Corpus Christi. Photo by Larry D. Moore/Creative Commons
where the only jet-cooled dance floor and patio in Texas keep boot scooters on their toes — even on hot summer evenings. www.banderacowboycapital.com
FAMILY FUN Take Advantage of the Long Weekend at These Great Memorial Day Getaways By Paris Permenter & John Bigley
T
he calendar may still say spring, but Texas travelers know that Memorial Day weekend begins summer fun in the Lone Star State. Whether you opt for kicking back along some of the state’s 367 miles of coastline, tubing down a Hill Country river or exploring historic communities, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate the season of sun.
CORPUS CHRISTI There’s no better time than Memorial Day weekend to visit Corpus Christi, home of U.S.S. Lexington Museum on the Bay. The most decorated aircraft carrier in U.S. naval history welcomes travelers for guided or self-guided tours of the 16-deck ship, as well as a 3-D theater, a multi-media Pearl Harbor exhibit so realistic it shakes the walkway and even a flight simulator where you can experience what it’s like to be an F/18 pilot. Near the Lexington, you’ll find the Texas State Aquarium, which last year doubled its indoor exhibit space with the opening of the “Caribbean Journey” exhibit that invites you to explore colorful coral reefs and tropical forests. www.visitcorpuschristitx.org
FREDERICKSBURG Offer a toast to summer fun at one of the dozens of wineries in Fredericksburg, a Hill Country community known not only for its rich German heritage, seen in its restaurants and biergartens, but also a booming wine industry. With wine production dating back to the region’s settlers, many of Fredericksburg’s wineries have now received international acclaim and the wines can be sampled in tasting rooms or in the town’s growing number of restaurants. After a meal, take some time to stroll the National Historic District and explore the 150-plus shops that call Fredericksburg home or visit the National Museum of the Pacific War, a six-acre, three-museum complex known as one of the nation’s top military museums. And after a day of exploration, head to one of the town’s stand-alone guesthouses that have made Fredericksburg the bedEnchanted Rock near Fredericksburg. Photo by Steve Rawls 38 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
39
and-breakfast capital of Texas or camp at nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. The park features a 640-acre granite outcropping second only to Georgia’s Stone Mountain and has “Dark Sky” status, preventing artificial lights from marring your view of the summer sky. www.visitfredericksburgtx.com
MARBLE FALLS Texas summers are synonymous with lakeside fun, and Marble Falls puts travelers in easy reach of each of the Highland Lakes. This stair-step chain of lakes is formed by the Colorado River, winding through the Hill Country and providing 150 miles of water recreation. Whether you opt for boating Lake Marble Falls, fishing Inks Lake or birding at Canyon of the Eagles on Lake Buchanan, Marble Falls makes an excellent home base. Take a break from fun in the sun with a visit to one of the Marble Falls from above. Photo by Larry D. Moore/Creative Commons
area’s numerous wineries and breweries or shop for antiques and art at one of the many community galleries. www.marblefalls.org
NEW BRAUNFELS Founded by German immigrants attracted by the Comal and Guadalupe rivers, today those waters still draw summer travelers to New Braunfels. The crystal-clear, two-mile-long Comal begins with bubbling springs in downtown Landa Park, eventually merging with the Guadalupe River. Here, River Road is home to many local outfitters who can arrange for a relaxing float down cypress-shaded waters. If you prefer your water fun a little faster paced, New Braunfels is also home base for Schlitterbahn Water Park & Resort, the largest tubing park in the world; and Texas Ski Ranch, known not only for waterskiing but wakeboarding, skateboarding, paintballing and a 15,000-square-foot trampoline park. Of course, you’ll also find plenty of attractions that don’t require a towel, like Natural Bridge Caverns and Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch — and Texas’ oldest dance hall, Gruene Hall, still offering plenty of live music so you can two-step your way into summer in Texas style. www.innewbraunfels.com
Tubing in the Comal River in New Braunfels. Photo courtesy of www.comaltubes.com 40 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
41
PORT ARANSAS It takes more than a hurricane to keep a Texas town down, and the popular summer destination of Port Aransas is quickly rebuilding to welcome a season of sun lovers with fun centered along 18 miles of sandy beaches. Best known as “Port A” to regulars and residents, the community first came to the attention of travelers in the 1930s when the late president Franklin D. Roosevelt arrived here on a presidential yacht to fish with a local guide. Today, anglers test their skills aboard deep-sea excursions, lighted fishing piers and the South Jetty opportunities that have earned this community the title of “Fishing Capital of Texas.” Bird lovers are challenged, as well, at numerous locations on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. And don’t miss the chance to spot wild dolphins from Roberts Point Park, frequently seen “escorting” ships as they maneuver the channel. www.portaransas.org The bridge to South Padre Island from Port Isabelle. Photo by Shannon247/Creative Commons
SAN MARCOS South of Austin on I-35, this university town is home to the crystal-clear, bubbling spring waters that form the San Marcos River and Spring Lake. Used by humans for more than 13,000 years, today this setting is a nature park: The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University. Hop aboard a glass-bottom boat, book a SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) or a kayak tour or take a self-guided stroll along the Wetlands Boardwalk. For an entirely different kind of exercise, explore San Marcos’ 1.2 million square feet that make up the largest outlet shopping center in the United States and, when the day is done, enjoy live music at one of the town’s many nightspots.
Meadows Center in San Marcos
www.toursanmarcos.com
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND At the tropical tip of Texas, South Padre Island stretches for 34 miles, hugging the Texas coastline and, at its widest point, spans only half a mile, so you’re never far from the beach. Seaside activities tempt travelers regardless of energy and adventure level offering everything from parasailing, tandem skydiving and windsurfing to bodyboarding at Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort South Padre Island — or relaxing sunset cruises and educational dolphin excursions. www.sopadre.com
Premium Outlets in San Marcos 42 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
, Bandera,Texas
ARTWALK 2018 Welcome to the Ranch...
for a family vacation or holiday, fitness vacation, company retreat, church retreat, family reunion, or other group event. Saddle up and live your dreams for an hour, day, week, month, or longer.
RANCHO CORTEZ TEXAS DUDE RANCH / COWBOY FITNESS FARM
• Boys and girls camps during the summer • Year-round fitness camps for adults • Discount for campers/parents that attend the same week P
830-796-9339 • info@ranchocortez.com • www.ranchocortez.com 43
Photo courtesy of Nolan Conley Photography
PATRIOTIC TRIBUTES Wave a Flag this Memorial Day Weekend for Our Fallen Heroes By Shirley Barr
P
erhaps beauty really is in the eye of the beholder. I never thought of cemeteries as beautiful until I saw the rolling hills and undulating matching gravestones at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. It encompasses 78.6 acres with more than 59,000 interments — all U.S. fallen military. It and the Civil War burial grounds in Chattanooga are both well worth the trip. Closer to home, here are a few more ideas on where to extend your gratitude and respect.
Houston National Cemetery The National Cemetery Administration hosts Memorial Day ceremonies at VA national cemeteries across the country with the help of local communities. Each community adds its own special touch of patriotism and “thanks” during the events. 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, 281-447-8686, www.cem.va.gov 44 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Fallen Warriors Memorial The Fallen Warriors Memorial honors Texans who gave their lives fighting terrorism. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Memorial Day, May 28, these heroes will be announced on a loudspeaker as visitors review names engraved on four imposing granite walls. You also can tour the Fallen Warriors Gallery. Cutten Road, 832-868-9810, www.fallenwarriorstexas.org
The Woodlands One of the biggest Memorial Day events in Greater Houston kicks off 4 p.m. Sunday, May 27, with the national anthem followed by two live bands and dazzling fireworks. www.thewoodlands.com
Armed Forces River Parade Don’t miss the Armed Forces River Parade in San Antonio, set 57 p.m. May 19, a free patriotic event dedicated to the men and women who serve in all branches of the Armed Forces with 25 starspangled floats. Patriotic and American-themed rock music are played from the floats throughout the 2 1/2 mile downtown parade route on the River Walk. www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events/armed-forces-river-parade
PAINT & COLOR MATCHING l LAWN & GARDEN l PROPANE l SHARPENING SERVICES l HOUSEWARES l ELECTRICAL l PLUMBING l POOL SUPPLIES l LUMBER & SHEETROCK l KEY MAKING
SOUTHLAND HARDWARE THE STORE THAT HAS Almost EVERYTHING 1822 Westheimer • Houston, TX 77098 • 713-529-4743 • 832-834-5443 fax shop online @ www.southlandhardware.com • Mon-Sat 8-6pm and Sun 9-5pm
Stop in, snoop around. You never know what you’ll find.
B.J. OLDIES ANTIQUE SHOP
We buy old toys, dolls, furniture, and sterling 1726 Westheimer • Houston, TX 77098
Becky • 832-651-8477 • Open 7 Days, 10-6 • www.BJOldiesAntiques.com
Your Complete Home Care Same Name, Same Phone Number Since 1991
AFTER
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.net • hlupholstery@yahoo.com
Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • custom Patio coveRs Painting • additions • siding • Roofing • caRPentRy concRete • PoweR washing • sheetRocK We do it ALL and MORE...
BEFORE
713-944-5257
Lewis Construction
www.yourcompletehomecare.com
45
47
48 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
49
A SMART REDO The renovated kitchen is light, bright and decorated with white granite countertops.
Homeowners, Morning Star Builders Work Together to Renovate a Home, Sweet Home Article by Barbara Canetti • Photos courtesy of Kolanowski Studio
T
he two-story, stone and stucco house in Northwest Houston was just what the Jacobsen family wanted. But more importantly, it was what they wanted to
redo. They purchased the house in 2016 and spent a good part of the next year remodeling it so it would really be exactly what they wanted. And it is.
GOALS Kelly McCaslin, selections manager at Morning Star Builders LTD, says the home in Coles Crossing had a fantastic outdoor space with a pool, large entertainment area and gazebo. The couple wanted space for separate bedrooms for their growing teens and a game and media room. In the renovation process, no new square footage was added: They merely rearranged the rooms and walls and refreshed the house to accommodate their busy lifestyle. The 4,109-square-foot house was gutted and the process began, starting with the kitchen. 50 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
THE KITCHEN The kitchen cabinets and countertops were dark and dated, and the island in the center was bulky and not designed for seating. In order to bring it to the desired lighter and brighter look, cabinets were removed and replaced with custom products by RWS Cabinets and Trim, designed for the maximum use of space. They were finished in a custom color, “Decorator White” with “Grey Heirloom Glaze,” which changed the entire character of the home. Sprawling countertops of Himalaya white granite, cut with a square edge by Arizona Tile, gave the room a more modern look, along with the tumbled troy travertine brick-patterned backsplash, with a pencil liner of the same material but in a herringbone pattern. They selected high-end Thermador appliances and a custom stainless steel vent hood. Now, this was the kitchen they had envisioned and the rest of the renovation followed in step.
A chef's pantry or "dirty kitchen" was carved out of the laundry area. 51
Living room highlights include the eye-catching stone fireplace and cedar-wrapped beams on the ceiling.
ADJUSTMENTS Adjacent to the kitchen is the new dining room, which is now part of the open concept that includes the kitchen, old breakfast area and family room. The original dining room had been in the front of the house and was converted to a powder room, closet and chef’s pantry. In its new space, the dining table looks out onto large picture windows that showcase the outdoor area — a pool and gazebo. The Jacobsens chose matching lighting fixtures in the kitchen and dining rooms. And, by moving the laundry area, the chef’s pantry nook (called a “dirty kitchen”) was created with an additional refrigerator, wall oven, microwave and a small desk area. All the materials and colors in this alcove match the kitchen’s designs. Another cool change in the house was repurposing a small space under the staircase, which had been a closet, and con52 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
verting it into a wine room. The cabinetry was custom designed in a knotty alder and stained to match the “Lakepoint Plantation” hickory floors from Cornelius Contracting. “We added a tongue-and-groove pine ceiling that was also stained to match the cabinetry,” says McCaslin. The countertop in the wine room is azurite granite and the backsplash is Texas brick in “Silverport” from Town and Country Brick & Supply. The wine racks and door were custom designed by Artisan Racks, and the Fanimation “Middleton” pendant was added to light the space. The nearby stair railing was replaced with a design from Ironwood Connections.
MASTER BEDROOM & BATH McCaslin says the couple specifically wanted their master suite to be elegant and special and the starting point in the
R U B I N ’ S Custom Rugs and Fine Carpet
Wall-to-Wall Carpet
Binding Service
Custom Rug Work Room •
3130 Rogerdale Rd., Suite 150 • www.rubinscustomrugs.com
7 1 3 .7 8 4 .1 1 8 0
713-686-6176
Fax 713-686-3217
4910 W 34th St. PERSONAL SERVICE PROMPT DELIVERY
Specializing In Hardwood Lumber, Plywood and Moulding.
Antique Pine, Aromatic Cedar, Ash, B. E. Maple, Basswood, Birch, Bloodwood, Bocote, Bubinga, Cherry, Cocobola, Curly Maple, Cypress, Lacewood, Mahogany, Maple, Mesquite, Mexican Rosewood, Oak, Padouk, Pecan, Purpleheart, Poplar, Spanish Cedar, Sycamore, Teak, Walnut, Wenge, Zebrawood and More
CLR Design Services, Inc. is a residential and commercial design firm specializing in remodels and new construction. Crystal Reeves 2017 ASID Medalist Award
713.269.4505 info@clrdesignservices.com clrdesignservices.com
Quality Domestic & Imported Plywood (Interior & Marine) Edgebanding & Veneer Sheets • Butcher Block Tops Flooring • Moulding • MDF & Melamine
On-Site Custom Moulding & Planing Open 7:30-5:00 M-F; 8:30-12:00 Sat. www.houstonhardwoods.com
We Stock Metallic Epoxies!
We Stain Fences and KEEP the Water Spots Off.
Color Hardeners • Releases • Acid Stains Premium Sealers • Polyurethanes & Epoxies Counter Top Mix • Self Leveling Overlays • Stamps Tools • Training & Support • Seminars The Original
BEFORE
Come See Our
Showroom
Serving Texas and the U.S. Since 1990
8310 Castleford St. #250 • Houston, TX 77040 713-462-8884 • www.decorativecs.com
MILITARY DISCOUNT ACTIVE & RETIRED
Rio Grande Fence Co.
AFTER
“ A P ro f e s s i o n a l F e n c e C o . ”
Serving Houston for Over 30 Years
Al l Ty pe s o f Fe nc es Free Estimates • Insured Residential • Commercial
Call Today Offer expires April 30, 2018
7 1 3- 8 6 2- 7 3 20
Email: RioGrandeFence@live.com With installation of 100 ft. of fence, receive one basic 3 ft. walk gate of the same style for FREE
With our Patented “FENCE SAVER” We’re the Only Fence Staining Company in Texas Guaranteeing NO MORE UGLY WATER STAINS on Your Fence. FENCES • PERGOLAS • DECKS
BEAUT IFYING YOUR NEIGHB ORHOOD ONE FENCE AT A TIME Call or Visit Our Website for a FREE ESTIMATE
281-413-0483 • QualityWoodFenceStain.com #7889666
53
The spa-like master bathroom features a soaking tub and "her" vanity.
classic 2005-style bathroom with white vanities and drop-in tub was the placement of the sinks. Plumbing was moved to showcase both the shower and freestanding bathtub and separated the his-and-hers vanities with undermount sinks by relocating the closet door. All cabinetry was removed, redesigned and painted and the countertops replaced with “Fantasy” brown marble with a satin finish. Custom-cut mirrors from the Mirror Gallery were inserted into frames made by MSB Trim and painted to match the cabinets. To add to the spa-like feel, the floor was tiled with 12-by 24-inch “Cemento Cassero Bianco” bricks, laid long ways in the room in front of the vanities and matched up with a tile strip that runs from the top walls of the shower, across the floor and up the wall behind the tub of “Eramosa Ice” stacked vertically. And to complete the feel and atmosphere, a crystal chandelier in the bathroom sets the tone for the room. 54 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
DETAILS The eye-catcher in the living room is the stone fireplace, which was completely redone with “Silver Split 3D” stone from Arizona tile. A flat-screen TV is mounted in place on the wall over the fireplace. The ceiling is notable for the long cedar-wrapped beams, stained to match the floor, giving the room a tasteful, homey feel. But the family seems to congregate mostly in the carpeted media room, converted from a fifth bedroom and closet, and the large game room, which was converted to be closed in with custom-made barn doors. The brick wall flanks the tongue-and-groove pine ceiling and the floors are the same as downstairs. Now, after a 10-month renovation, the house really is what the Jacobsens wanted — with every room renovated top to bottom to meet their needs.
Durango Doors of Houston Introducing our MetalArt Series of Doors! The beauty of wood with the strength, security and durability of steel.
• •
2 1/4” Thick Panel
•
High density foam injected into stiles, rails, frame and panels for superior energy efficiency
Authentic Divided Lights
• •
True Raised Kick Plate
•
Insulated Low E decorative glass with a U-Factor .294 and a solar heat gain coefficient of .362
Contoured Steel Munts
View our Gallery online: www.durangodoors.com or Visit our Showroom At the Houston Design Center Suite#300 7026 Old Katy Rd., Houston, TX, 77024 (p) 713-680-3435 (f) 713-680-2128 Email: durangodoorsjeff@gmail.com 55
Across the master bathroom is "his" vanity. 56 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
The high performance, flexible mini-ducts of the fit easily behind walls and ceilings, eliminating the need for unsightly and cumbersome metal ducts and allowing you to maintain the architectural integrity of your home. is also draft-free and removes more moisture from the air. Call this certified contractor for more information on the
Norm Hilburn • www.airmartoftx.com
TACLA015311E
57
Welcome to the game room via glass-fronted barn doors.
RESOURCES APPLIANCES Thermador www.thermador.com BACKSPLASH Town and Country Brick & Supply 15711 FM 2920 Tomball 281-351-6356 www.tcbrick.com BUILDER Morning Star Builders LTD 832-304-2310 www.homesbymorningstar.com CABINETRY RWS Cabinets & Trim 936-760-2407 www.rwscabinets.com CARPET & FLOORING Cornelius Contracting 281-378-7696 www.corneliuscontracting.com
The steel and glass entry doors are from Durango Doors of Houston. 58 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
ENTRY DOOR Durango Doors of Houston 7026 Old Katy Road 713-680-3435 www.durangodoors.com
HARDWARE Custom Plumbing & Hardware 713-961-1324 www.customplumbing andhardware.com MIRRORS Mirror Gallery Inc. Houston 9600 Grant Road 281-893-6922 www.mirrorgallery.com STAIR RAILING Ironwood Connections 16684 Air Center Blvd. 281-209-0000 www.ironwoodusa.com TILE, COUNTERTOPS & FIREPLACE Arizona Tile 10811 S. Westview Circle Drive, Suite 200 713-468-0511 www.arizonatile.com WINE RACKS Artisan Racks www.artisanracks.com
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR HOME GAME ROOM NEEDS New & Used Pinball Machines, Arcade Video Games & Foosball Large Showroom–Over 300 Machines on Display Sales, Rentals & Repairs
Downtown across from Minute Maid Park 1820 Franklin St., Suite B • www.joystixgames.com
713.224.2225 OUR SHOWROOM IS ALSO AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE EVENTS. 59
1435 Sue Barnett St., part of the Garden Oaks Home Tour
SPRING HOME TOURS The Heights & Garden Oaks Invite You to Visit Beautiful Houses By Barbara Canetti • Photos courtesy of Houston Heights Association and Garden Oaks Civic Club
S
pringtime is home tour time, at least for two large residential neighborhoods. The Houston Heights and its neighbor to the north, Garden Oaks, are showcasing outstanding homes this month for the public to enjoy. The Houston Heights Association’s Spring Home & Garden Tour is scheduled for noon-6 p.m. April 7 and 8, featuring homes ranging from historic to newly built. Here’s a roundup of what to see. THE SCOTT HOME, 1036 CORTLANDT ST. A Queen Anne bungalow renovated in 2016 by its present owners, this 1920s home had many uses for the past owners, including serving as a milk truck filling station in the 1950s. The home features original hand-cut glass in the front part of the house, with the original front porch fully restored.
60 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
THE HENDRIX HOME, 1330 HEIGHTS BLVD. One home, two addresses! This home, the oldest on the tour, was originally built in 1907 with the address of 1319 Heights Blvd. and sat next door to the Heights Funeral Home until the house was moved in 1990. This 2,156square-foot home was saved from a tear down and moved across the street to 1330 Heights Blvd. THE SCHRODER/HANKS HOME, 1845 HARVARD ST. A Mission Revival home originally was built at 1,500 square feet in 1914, but has been expanded to over 4,000 square feet. The new owners purchased the home in 2015, looking for a walkable historic neighborhood for their growing family. Note the home’s historic doors and windows, as much of the original architectural details, were retained.
61
HOUSTON HEIGHTS HOME TOUR
THE BROWN HOME, 701 E. 8 ½ ST. This two-story farmhouse was built in 2017 and contains many interesting features, including 100-year-old-plus reclaimed ceiling beams, reclaimed wood floors, extensive millwork throughout and large front and side porches. Local artist Kellie Morley created the artwork displayed in the home. THE SIMMONS/BERRA HOME, 523 E. 23RD ST. On a corner in beautiful Sunset Heights, this brick-and-sid-
1036 Cortlandt St.
ing Southern home was designed around century-old oak trees. Completed in 2016, it provides owners with everything they need to raise their children and entertain.
TICKETS AND MORE INFO
1330 Heights Blvd.
Tickets for the home tour are $20 in advance and available online at www.houstonheights.org, as well as from local Heights retailers. Tickets purchased on tour days are $25 and are available at the Houston Heights Fire Station, 107 W. 12th St. at the corner of Yale Street. Shuttle buses are available to take tour-goers to the homes and accommodations are made for those who wish to ride their bicycles from home to home. Bike racks are available at each home with a “bicycle valet” on hand to assist. In addition, the association is sponsoring a Candlelight Dinner & Auction on Friday, April 6, from 7-11 p.m. at the SPJST Lodge 88, 1435 Beall St. The theme this year is “Boots, Bling & Bingo!” The event kicks off the home tour, giving partygoers a chance to preview the featured homes before they are open for the public. There will also be a live and silent auction, as well as a wine tasting paired with local cheeses and live music. To reserve a table, visit www.houstonheights.org.
GARDEN OAKS 701 E 8th St.
Just north of the Heights is Garden Oaks, a residential community of 1,400 homes built in the 1930s and 1940s. This community, which is undergoing many restorations as well as new constructions, will open six homes to the public from noon-6 p.m. on April 29. Look for these beauties. 1435 SUE BARNETT DRIVE This home is a 2016 new construction with special attention to details and finishes. The first floor boasts open spaces filled with natural light and a wine cellar. The exterior spaces include a bricked patio and garage apartment facade alongside the pool. See photo on page 60.
523 E. 23rd St. 62 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
$
$
9’x 12’: 2200 | 8’x 10’: 1800
3215 Fondren (second floor) • Houston, TX 77063 713.266.7772 • www.davidorientalrugs.com David Oriental Rugs
Galleria Area
Richmond
610 W. Loop
Fondren
Westheimer
GARDEN OAKS HOME TOUR
207 W. 32ND ST. This recent build has been given the name “Casa Blanca.” The sophisticated styling of the tuxedo kitchen is achieved with dark cabinetry against light counters and touches of gold in the finishes. 224 W. 30TH ST. Another new construction has contemporary clean lines and 207 W. 32nd St.
224 W. 30th St.
a few rustic touches. The interior perfectly brings bright finishes and the owner’s elegantly eclectic style together. The layout delivers a formal setting of living and dining spaces, and then leads to the back of the home and a more casual family room anchored by the fireplace. 874 W. 42ND ST. This Craftsman-style home has a warm, inviting feel immediately. The well-appointed interior features recent renovations with classic style. The backyard is for entertaining, with a covered patio facing the pool. 938 W. 41ST ST. The unique lot and placement of the original structure on it paired perfectly with the owners’ vision as they planned to downsize. The design throughout the interior and exterior is inspired by that of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
874 W. 42nd St.
1011 W. 42ND ST. With a nod to the charm of an original Garden Oaks residence, this updated home’s kitchen has views of the lush backyard. The second floor includes a home office with access to the upper deck space and nearby master suite.
TICKETS AND MORE INFO
938 W. 41st St.
1011 W. 42nd St. 64 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Tickets can be purchased online at www.gardenoaks.org. A trolley is available to take tour-goers to see homes. A special VIP preview party will be held April 28 at Berryhill’s Baja Grill & Cantina on Ella at W. 43rd St. Tickets are $75 per person, which include self-guided tours of all of the homes between 5:30-7 p.m. and then dinner and drinks. A silent and live auction are arranged to raise funds for Garden Oaks Montessori Magnet School, with proceeds benefiting the middle school’s needs, such as classroom materials, the sixth- and seventh-graders’ community-building camp expedition and the eighth-graders’ educational adventure to Washington, D.C.
DESIGNS BY DEBRA CRUZ INTERIORS WHERE BEAUTIFUL HOMES BEGIN Custom Draperies, Florals, Furniture, Art, Accessories, Hunter Douglas Shutters, Shades and Blinds, Reupholstery Historic Downtown Conroe • 202 N. Main Street 936-828-7095 • Designsbydebracruz.com
65
“OPEN DAYS” Selia Qyin’s garden habitat in Spring Branch. Photo by Selia Qyin
Houston Homeowners Share Their Gardens During Nationwide Program By Barbara Canetti
A
fter a massive flood and several days of freezing temperatures, Houston gardeners are cleaning up their plots and seeking inspiration for their spring plantings and designs. Four Houston-area gardens are open for public visits on April 28 as part of The Garden Conservancy’s national “Open Days” program. A portion of the proceeds from the local event benefits Peckerwood Garden in Hempstead. “The purpose of this program is to celebrate the wonderful gardens in Houston and to educate people on the plants and garden designs available,” says Frank Brown, local coordinator for “Open Days.” “We hope people come and see some pretty gardens and take away ideas and innovations for their own gardens.” Although all the local display gardens were affected by the freeze, they have recouped and are in bloom for the visits. None were flooded by Hurricane Harvey. Four diverse local gardens part of this program include
66 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
a multi-family landscape in Independence Heights; a three-acre habitat with numerous water features and a xeriscape in Spring Branch; a Heights “Pollinator Cafe” and shade garden; and a sustainable, naturalized cottage garden with ornamentals and edibles and aboveground and belowground rainwater collection units in West University. The private gardens are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for exploration. The Houston event, one of many tours across the country this year, helps support the national nonprofit conservancy’s efforts to preserve outstanding private gardens for public education and enjoyment. Since 1995, The Garden Conservancy has worked to fuel the public’s interest and passion for gardens and gardening through its “Open Days” program. Since its inception, it has welcomed more than 1 million visitors into thousands of inspired private landscapes — from urban
LIMITED
TIME
OFFER!
AIR CONDITIONING
H E AT I N G
FOR DEPENDABLE COMFORT Since 1977 • Rebates & Special Financing* still available, call for details Check us out on the Web!
We Service All Brands
www.AirDepot.com • 281-477-3700 * With approved credit
•
License # TACLA000225C
FAUCETS I WHIRLPOOLS I HARDWARE I SINKS I TOILETS I TUBS
HOUSTON’S OLDEST PLUMBING SHOWROOM IS NOW HOUSTON’S NEWEST PLUMBING SHOWROOM!
NOW OPEN 3600 KIRBY DRIVE at RICHMOND AVE
713-942-9519
BOLD NEW DISPLAYS FOR THE BEST IN DECORATIVE PLUMBING AND HARDWARE, THE CHOICE REMAINS WESTHEIMER PLUMBING & HARDWARE
KIRBY SHOWROOM: 3600 Kirby Drive • Houston, TX 77098 WAREHOUSE: 3590 East T.C. Jester • Houston, TX 77018 713-956-0090 • Mon-Fri, 9-5 & Sat, 10-4
w w w. w e s t h e i m e r p l u m b i n g . c o m
67
The Ernst-Kittelsen garden in Itchy Acres. Photo courtesy of Carter Ernst and Paul Kittelsen
Photo by Mary Glover
rooftops to organic farms, historic estates to innovative suburban lots in 41 states. This annual program is produced almost entirely by volunteers, individuals who help showcase the rich diversity in American gardens. Peckerwood Garden is a collection of more than 3,000 plants, including many rarities. It is also a conservation garden containing examples of numerous threatened species, many of which are no longer found in the wild, and it is a laboratory garden testing a wide range of “new” plants. The cost to visit the gardens is $7 each, with funds going to The National Conservancy and a portion to Peckerwood Garden. Here’s a quick synopsis of Houstonarea gardens participating in “Open Days.”
Selia Qynn’s Garden Habitat 10037 Hazlehurst Drive in Spring Branch Water features, animal habitats, sitting nooks and art installations are woven together with lush plantings in this expansive landscape certified by the National Wildlife Federation. Highlights of the garden include a 12,000gallon pond with bog, lily and koi areas divided by stepping-stones and an island. A tranquil scene in Selia Qyin's garden. Photo by Selia Qyin
68 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
ALVIN ANTIQUE CENTER & OLD ALVIN EMPORIUM
ALL MONTH APRIL SALE April 1–30, 2018 10 to 50% OFF in selected booths Acres of Antiques - Over 300 Dealers 55,000 sq. ft. of Antiques & Collectibles
Visit Alvin Antique Center & Marketplace for Treasures Galore! New Items Arriving Every Day! Antique Center: Tues.-Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5, Closed Mon. Alvin Emporium: Mon.-Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5
Introducing the TEA SPOON at Alvin Antique Center 2500 S. Loop 35 • Alvin, TX • 281-388-0537 • www.AlvinAntiqueCenter.com
You Break’em... We’ll Fix’em! Window Coverings: Blinds Pickup & Delivery Shades Available Shutters Most repairs can be made on-site
City Blind Repair 713.664.0444
■
www.cityblind.com
SERVING HOUSTON FOR OVER 27 YEARS
est. 1991
Name Brand Quality Pre-owned Home Furnishings Consignment * Estate Purchases * Salvage Freight
Great Selection of Chandeliers for All Your Lighting Needs
Professional Lamp & Chandelier RepairSince 1976
Champions Lighting 5211 Cypress Creek Pkwy
281-440-5339
www.championslighting.com located In the Barnes and Noble/ Randall’s center at Champion Forest Dr.
69
Steve Stelzer and Kathleen English’s Naturalized Cottage Garden
Steve Stelzer and Kathleen English’s naturalized cottage garden
2709 Albans Road in West University Pollinator-friendly plants, special plant collections and numerous green and sustainable features are found in this naturalized cottage garden. A custom green wall/fence adds about 135 square feet of vertical gardening with ornamentals and edibles. A 1,000-gallon aboveground tank collects rainwater runoff from the roof and belowground tanks collect rainwater, both used for watering plants. A naturalized dry creek works as a detention swale and a rain garden is created from porch roof runoff.
Sarah and Rich Doty’s Heights Pollinators Cafe and Shade Garden 414 W. 13th St. in the Heights Updated in 2016, the front garden in this Heights garden is a study in designing and planting shade-tolerant plants. A struggling lawn beneath camphor trees was replaced with low-maintenance and attractive groundcovers and shade-tolerant plants. The side garden is filled with long-flowering, pollinator-attracting plants. Visitors will find the back deck is painted as an airplane runway. Heights Pollinator Cafe and Shade Garden. Photo courtesy of Ravenscourt Landscaping
Itchy Acres Artist Community Entrance at 405 Martin St. in Independence Heights This multi-family landscape is owned by Carter Ernst and Paul Kittelson, Dr. Karen Gerlach and Dr. Steven Lesser, Tim and Mary Glover, Brian Owens and Susan Meyers, Ed and Magda Wilson and Ray and Lourdes Balinskas. The informal neighborhood of artists, musicians and creative souls is tucked in the northern edge of Independence Heights. Ropes of poison ivy covered the heavily wooded lot Ernst and Kittelson bought in 1989. Therefore, the catchy name. But today, theirs and the adjoining gardens in this community are filled with plants, wildlife, sculpture, dogs and nature-inspired peace. Itchy Acres also will host a Peckerwood Garden plant sale during tour hours. In addition to the “Open Days” tour in Houston, Peckerwood Garden Open Day is set 10 a.m.-3 p.m. April 28 at Peckerwood Garden, 20559 FM 359, Hempstead, 979-826-3232. Register at peckerwoodgarden.org. Members are admitted free, with nonmembers charged $10 each. Photo by Magda Wilson 70 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Spring GIFT MARKET
presented by Home for the Holidays Gift Market
Katy’s Largest Gift Market with 200+ vendors! THE KATY MERRELL CENTER 6301 South Stadium Lane • Katy, Tx 77494 April 7th & 8th Sat. 10-6 pm • Sun. 11-4 pm
Register online or find us on Facebook for contests and coupons!
Retail & Wholesale Authorized Dealer For Personal or Commercial Use Popular Products: Barrels, Drums, Buckets, Jugs, Jars, Pumps, Cans, Pails, Lids, Bottles, IBC;s, Tanks, & Bags.
Popular Use: Rain Water Harvesting, Food Storage, Composting, Fuel, Water Storage Flotation, & Garden Use.
www.HomeForTheHolidaysGiftMarket.com Contact us by Email or Call 281-788-4297 HomeForTheHolidaysGiftMarket@yahoo.com
Servicing the Houston Area for 35 years
DON’T MISS THEM!
4761 Hwy. 146 • Bacliff, TX (281) 559-2334 • (800) 560-2334 or Order Online #1 Rain Barrel Seller on Internet
www.baytec.net Also at our Retail Location:
71
Compiled by barbara Kuntz
EDITOR’S PICKS
M
LET’S INDULGE MOM
other’s Day is just around the corner, May 13, in fact. Start your shopping now for that perfect gift to say thanks for all she does. We have ideas to share, and we’re going over-the-top with some suggestions. After all, she deserves it!
SASANIAN CAVIAR
ARTISTIC CHANDELIER
$1,950 Watch as your mom’s face lights up with delight when she receives a dazzling chandelier. This particular fixture is of colorful, hand-blown Italian Murano glass, circa 1920, and features all original parts and new wiring. Measurements are 14 inches in diameter and 24 inches tall. Brown, 2940 Ferndale St., 713-522-2151, www.shopbybrown.com DIY CAVIAR SERVICE
Prices vary A traditional caviar service needs just a few ingredients to present to Mom in a most elegant way. Start with fresh caviar, with an ounce or so per person kept in the coldest part of your fridge before serving. A decorative glass bowl with crushed ice is next, along with a mother-of-pearl or bone spoon for scooping the caviar onto plain crackers or white bread. To the side, offer crème fraiche, diced onion, fresh chives or even hardboiled eggs. And don’t forget the beverage, whether it’s an ice-cold shot of vodka or a flute of her favorite champagne. GUARDIAN ANGEL NECKLACE
$61.99 Give the person you love the protection, guidance and hope of an angel to watch over her everyday. The 18-inch necklace by Michal’s Imports Ltd. is adorned with Swarovski crystals. Choose from silver or other finishes and multiple stone selections. Available at C&D Hardware & Gifts, 314 E. 11th St., 713-861-3551, www.canddhw.com
72 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
www.hartzland.com
NOW A LICENSED IRRIGATOR
73
YOGA CLASS
Prices vary Help Mom find her Zen with enrollment in a yoga class. While learning the poses, she’ll gain relaxing meditative powers…and thank you with her newfound uber state of coolness and inner peace. One of our favorite spots is family-owned and -operated Cherry Blossom Yoga with its professional staff and clean and inviting studio. Wherever you choose, remember: A woman’s work is never done, so give your mother the chance to chill out! Cherry Blossom Yoga, 16650 Champion Forest Drive, Spring, 281-2574245, www.cherryblossomyoga.com SPA DAY
Prices vary Take her away from it all with a day at her favorite spa. From massages to facials to foot and hand treatments, you’ll find numerous packages available. Even treat her to lunch at the salon while she’s being pampered throughout the day. Check out Deer Lake Lodge Resort & Health Spa, 10500 Deer Lake Lodge Road, Montgomery, 936-647-1383, www.deerlakelodge.com; and La Paz Day Spa & Salon, 101 W. 14th St., 713-864-2244, www.lapazdayspa.com. CHANDELIERS FOR EVERY ROOM
Prices vary Crystal chandeliers are not just for the dining room. Bring some “ice” into your kitchen and class into your bath. At The Lighting Gallery, all chandeliers are 40-50 percent off through the month of April — just in time for Mother’s Day. The Lighting Gallery, 6265 Cypress Creek Parkway, 281-444-9299, www.lightinghouston.com BUTTERFLY GINKGO PHOTO FRAME
$165 Slip one of Mom’s favorite photos into this 6-by-8 inch frame by master metalsmith Michael Aram to celebrate her day in a beautiful way. This collection takes a graceful nod to the representation of flora as fauna, showcasing Aram’s fascination with the ginkgo Biloba, which grows double leaves reminiscent of butterfly wings. The frame is made of natural and oxidized bronze. Available through several department stores and www.michaelaram.com SPARTINA 449 BOHO HIPSTER
$108 Mom will love this classic bag in “Moonglade” fabric to keep her things organized and readily at hand. A band of embroidery, removable pom-pom fob and webbed cotton cross-body strap keep it cool, with the interior featuring a zip top, inside zip and double-slip pockets. If Mom prefers red, check out the “Light Bermuda” style with a floral print. Available at Bering’s, 6102 Westheimer Road, 713-785-6400; 3900 Bissonnet St., 713-665-0500; www.berings.com 74 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
75
artiCle and photography by linda b. gay
GARDENING
Au natural, gorgeous crape myrtles provide beautiful shapes and colors.
T
“Chica,” a 2- to 4-foot-tall shrub, produces deep red flowers.
SAVE THE CRAPES! Stop Pruning These Naturally Sculptured Plants
he way crape myrtles can look in spring is a travesty (distorted representations of trees) and a tragedy (an event causing great suffering and distress) to the individual plants. What I am referring to is the way the trees get brutally whacked and chopped by loppers and saws and then loaded into a large trailer, adding to landfills. If the plants are too tall, pull them out and replace with shorter varieties, as crape myrtles rarely or never need pruning. Crape myrtles are TREES and that means they grow TALL, anywhere from 20 to 40 feet in height. They have been lovingly referred to as the “Lilac of the South” (with no fragrance) with a very long bloom time in the summer. Crape myrtles have wonderful exfoliating bark in late spring/early summer. When I was a child, I loved to peel off the bark to reveal the beautiful, velvety, cinnamon-colored trunk. The leaves also provide great fall color, from yellow to orange to red, if the weather cooperates. So here we have a plant that gives us an exceptionally long summer bloom period, great fall foliage (not many trees do that here) and a beautiful sculptured trunk when allowed to grow naturally.
CHOICES Two types of crape myrtles are most frequently planted here: Lagerstroemia indica and Lagerstroemia hybrid (indica x fauriei). The first species, L. indica, has small round leaves and is terribly susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a white powder that causes the leaves to curl up and distort, stops photosynthesis and 76 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
occurs in spring and fall. Powdery mildew must be sprayed with several fungicide applications. Or you can plant the U.S. National Arboretum hybrids, which are totally resistant to powdery mildew. One hybrid crape myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei, was started by the late Donald Egolf of the national arboretum beginning in 1959. He initiated a research project to develop disease-resistance (powdery mildew), hardiness (because the fauriei species were more frost-tender that indica) rebloomers, true flower color and unique inheritable dark trunk colors. The hybrid crapes are easily distinguished as they have larger rectangle leaves, larger flowers and flower clusters and are totally resistant to powdery mildew. That means you never have to spray fungicide again! Some of the National Arboretum hybrids you may be familiar with are: • Muskogee, up to 30 feet tall, light lavender flowers and redorange fall color • Tuscarora, up to 20 feet tall, dark coral-pink flowers and redorange fall color • Natchez, up to 30 feet tall, white flowers and yellow to redorange fall color • Arapaho, up to 20-30 feet tall, red flowers and maroon-tinged leaves • Fantasy, 25-40 feet tall, white flowers with a sweet fragrance and nectar for attracting bees If you do not have the space for a 20- or 30-foot tree, try using one of the shrub or dwarf crape myrtle varieties.
• Chickasaw, 1- 3-foot-tall shrub with light lavender-pink flowers • Chica, 2- to 4-foot-tall shrub with deep red flowers • Pokomoke, 3- 5-foot-tall shrub, deep rose-pink flowers • Hopi, 5- 10-foot tall shrub, light pink flowers • Dynamite, 6- to 8-foot-tall dense shrub, true red flowers • Acoma, 6- to 10-foot-tall semi-dwarf weeping habit with white flowers • Catawba, 8- to 10-foot-tall dense shrub with violet-purple flowers
Dramatika
Houston’s premiere destination for quality custom framing, unique greeting cards and one-of-a-kind gifts for over 30 years.
713-868-5050 331 W. 19th St.
CRAPE MYRTLE TIPS 1. Do not plant in flowerbeds next to the house. Instead, use a tall variety in the middle of the yard to provide summer shade on the west side of the house.
2 8 1 - 6 2 0 - 5 5 8 4 • w w w. m a d e l e i n e b a n k s . c o m
2. Crape myrtles are either single trunk or multi-trunked. It can take a long time to turn a multi-trunk into a single trunk, so purchase a single trunk to begin with, if that is what you need. 3. Plant the hybrids with the large leaves in the spring and fall to avoid powdery mildew. 4. Crape myrtles need at least six hours of direct sun for long summer blooms. 5. Watch for crape myrtle “Asian Bark Scale.” It turns the trunks completely black and must be treated systematically and topically. Severe pruning seems to attract these sucking insects. 6. Pruning should only be done when trees are young by removing crossing and rubbing branches and dead wood. You could remove seed heads in the winter, but this is how all the abuse started because it was too time consuming to snip the tips and progressed into the crape murder we have come to recognize today. Note: If you have trees that have been chopped down to shoulder or waist height, remove them for they will never be beautiful again. Finally, you be the teacher and help educate those holding the chain saws and pruners to stop the horrible disfiguring of our beautiful sculptured trees. Remember: No pruning is necessary if the trees have never been pruned. Linda B. Gay is a horticulturist and gardener at The Arbor Gate garden and plant nursery, 15635 FM 2920, Tomball, 281-351-8851, www.arborgate.com.
Uxtâàç9XvÉÇÉÅç
Manufacturers of spiral stairways in wood, metal, stainless steel, aluminum and brass. Stock or Custom-Built to any size. Shipped Worldwide • Free Brochure
www.StairwaysInc.com
4166 Pinemont Houston, TX 77433 713-680-3110 800-231-0793
Enhance your home with ageless beauty, inviting elegance and unsurpassed luxury.
611 Martin, Houston TX 77018 713.426.1400 www.zarzastone.com 77
Take an ordinary journey to an extraordinary place
PET OF THE MONTH
The Arbor Gate 15635 FM 2920 • Tomball, Texas 77377
www.arborgate.com • 281-351-8851
designed for your lifestyle REFLECTION
POOLS & SPAS Office . . . . . . 713.559.1100 Houston • Dallas • Austin
www.reflectionpoolsandspas.com
HI! MY NAME IS STAN! I came to the Houston SPCA on my own…well, kind of. The good folks there found me running down a street nearby and took me in. I’ve become a bit of a local celebrity since then, walking in the Heights Chamber of Commerce Parade in March and making trips to local eateries with Houston SPCA staff to show off how handsome and well behaved I am. And I am! I’m a friendly, playful young guy who loves to romp and play with other dogs. I even know how to sit and can walk pretty well on a loose leash. I am heartworm-positive, but the Houston SPCA and VCA Animal Hospitals help cover the cost of treatment, so that shouldn’t be a deterrent. I want a family that is willing to exercise me and give me attention. I’ll greet you, too, every day with my big smile…and love you unconditionally. ID#350788 • Male • One-year-old Boxer mix
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 your adoption option as easy as possible! 78 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
79
Julie Downey, ASID, NCIDQ, RID
Downey Design
713.240.5377 julie@downeydesignllc.com
Paint Color Confusion? Call today for the solution to your paint color selections
downeydesignllc.com
Bright Landscape Designs Inc. Bright Ideas for Landscaping 281.496.3576 www.brightlandscapedesigns.com Custom Landscaping • Stonework Lighting • Maintenance Water Features • Irrigation Design & Installation • Consultation Serving greater Houston and surrounding areas since 1982!
www.nandvpatioco.com
Professionalism, Creativity & Outstanding Service at Your Reach
Free On-site Estimates
281.397.8703
Gallaway Porcelain Works Reconditioning
Repair
Refinishing Porcelain Acrylics Simulated Marble ■ Fiberglass ■ Tub Chips ■ Antique Clawfoot Tubs Refinisher for the Emporium
281-304-9300 ELEVEN-TIME AWARD WINNER
TexasTubs.com
Operated by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC 713-569-1909 cell 1226 Museum Square Drive, 281-242-6200 office Suite 700 valerie.rucker@cbunited.com Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.homesbyvalerierucker.com
C REATIVE I MPROVEMENTS, LLC. Residential & Commercial
■
FREE ESTIMATES
■
281-804-3108
Katy
Kitchen Bath
281.391.6279 www.KatyKitchen.com
AMAZING FENCES & BURGLAR BARS
Beating the competition for years! Free Estimates 281-467-1898 • 281-397-8354 fax
Iron • Wood • Chain Link • Automatic Gate Openers
• Custom Cabinets • Siding • Remodeling • Framing • Painting • Trim • Decks • Granite & Tile • Fencework • Pressure Washing • Sheetrock • Tape & Float • Wood & Laminate Floors FREE Estimates • Small Jobs Welcome www.residentialrenovationshouston.com • 832.651.7061
CREATIVE CONTOURS L . ANDSCAPE CO
• Landscape Lighting • Sprinkler Systems • Soil pH Testing • Design • Installation
• Underground Drainage Systems • Brick, Brick Paver, & Stone Patios • Landscape
832-722-0130 www.creativecontourslandscapingLLC.com
Russell Budnick Grad. Texas A&M
Phone
REFERRALS AVAILABLE www.creativeimprovementsllc.com Room Additions • Roofing • Painting • Carpentry • Electrical • Plumbing Doors • Siding • Decks • Interior & Exterior Repairs. Remodel Kitchens and Bathrooms. Granite Countertops.
$50 OFF
With This Ad
BUY FARM DIRECT AND SAVE
Open To The Public
23111 FM 1462 Damon, TX • 979-553-3441 • 979-553-3756 fax
w w w. b r a z o s b e n d t r e e f a r m . c o m
Sophies’ Upholstery & Draperies
• Custom Drapes • Mini Blinds • Slip Covers • Custom Furniture • Cornices • Shades • Bedding • Pillows Fine Quality • Great Prices • Work Done on Premises Open to the Public • Trade Welcome Serving Southwest Houston & Fort Bend County
11925 Southwest Fwy. #2 • 281.879.6300
WHY REPLACE WHEN YOU CAN RESTORE? TUBS • TILE • GROUT $ & Chip Repair 25 OFF Crack Counters & Cabinets
COMPLETE KITCHEN REMODELS
• CABINETS • FIXTURES • COUNTERTOPS
kleinwoodfloors@gmail.com
Quality Container Grown Trees
SMP Social Media Pro
■
281.376.6262
BRAZOS BEND TREE FARM
Valerie L Rucker Realtor® Room Additions • Pool Enclosures • Patio Covers Outdoor Kitchens • Pergolas • Porches • Gazebos Walkway Covers • Deck Covers • Pavilions Sun Rooms
Wood Floor Water Damage Installation, Sand & Finish
By George Szontagh TREC License #2212 Prepurchase/Slab/Pier & Beam Since 1990
with this ad
ANY JOB Rust Holes & Spots
18 YEARS EXP. • FREE ESTIMATES WE DO REMODELING!
Fiberglass
TUBS & TOPS
Porcelain Repair Bathroom Detailing
713.932.6090
www.tubsandtops.com
Bathtubs • Sinks • Tile Repaired • Removed • Installed • Cleaned & Polished
WAYNE’S HARDWOOD • CARPET • TILE
FREE ESTIMATES
(1-10 @Kirkwood)
713-498-8532
OWNER CRAFTSMAN-WESLEY MCDOUGLE
281-596-8187
M-F 10-5 • Sat 10-6 • Sun 12-5 or Appoint.
BOB’S RENOVATIONS
Reflection Pools & Spas
• Painting Interior & Exterior “Quality You Can Trust One Call Does It All” • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Family Owned & Operated 22 Years Exp. Complete Home Repairs
713-557-3310
• • • • • •
Cultured Marble Tops & Kitchen Countertops Whirlpool Tub Repair Sheetrock Repairs Carpentry Repairs Siding Rental Property Make Readys
Money Makers Flags, Banners, Poles
Windsocks and Pennants www.moneymakersflags.com 1517 Blalock Houston, TX 77080
713-461-1153 800-838-1153
713-559-1100
Beautiful Pools at Affordable Prices
www.reflection poolsandspas.com
TATCO CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING Servicing River Oaks and Surrounding Areas For Over 40 Years Construction / Cabinetry / Painting Full Service Contracting Rick Tatum
mobile
713.695.4084 | 713.304.4179
rickydtatum@aol.com
HardiePlank Siding Insulated Replacement Windows
Call my granddad– he’s the
BEST!
• HardiePlank • Double Pane Windows • Patio Covers • Sunrooms • Pergolas • Roofing • Stonework • Room Enclosures
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR SPECIALS
Ask about our 0% financing for 12months
NARI CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR
Authorized Dealer
2017 BBB PINNACLE WINNER!
281.852.1866 888.335.2036 12314 FM 1960, Houston, Texas 77336 81
82 house& home | April 2018 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
281-830-5680
www.vollmercustompools.com 83
EZ FLOORS P R O U D T O S E R V E YO U
CARPET • AREA RUGS • TILE & STONE • HARDWOOD • LAMINATE • RESILIENT COUNTERTOPS ASK US About Our LIFETIME WARRANTY on Installation!
APRIL SPECIALS
$100 OFF
HANDSCRAPED HARDWOOD Starting from $3.79 Sq. Ft.
HANDSCRAPED LAMINATE - 12mm Starting from $2.59 Sq. Ft.
PURCHASE OF $1500 OR MORE
Installed. All trim included. Limited time offer.
Installed. All trim & pad included. Limited time offer.
Present this ad at time of purchase. Not valid with any other specials.
TILE Starting from $2.69 Sq. Ft.
GRANITE COUNTERTOPS Starting from $27.99 Sq. Ft.
Includes installation. Limited time offer.
Installed including 1.5” bullnose. Limited time offer.
CARPET Starting from $1.09 Sq. Ft.
LAMINATE Starting from $2.29 Sq. Ft.
Includes installation, padding and removal of all carpet. Limited time offer.
Includes installation trim & pad. Limited time offer.
20x20 PORCELAIN TILE Starting from $3.19 Sq. Ft.
ANDERSEN HANDSCRAPED HARDWOODS Starting from $4.99 Sq. Ft.
Includes installation. Limited time offer.
Installed. All trim included. Limited time offer.
All hardwood & laminate installations include: Quarter-round, Transitional Trim, Pad & Glue
Up to 12 MONTHS NO INTEREST FINANCING
MEMORIAL CITY/SPRING BRANCH 1557 W Sam Houston Pkwy N Ste 110 713-465-6747
CYPRESS 24150 Highway 290 Ste 270 281-758-2980
COPPERFIELD 17111 West Rd Ste 105 281-656-2224
MONTGOMERY/CONROE 18024 Highway 105 Ste 200 936-582-4000
TOMBALL 16945 N Eldridge Pkwy Ste 100 281-257-5955
KATY/CINCO RANCH Katy, TX 77450-6231 281-647-0777
SPRING 5015 FM 2920 Rd 281-288-2300
KATY WEST/FIRETHORNE 2721 FM 1463 Ste # 100 832-437-5305
WWW.EZFLOORSONLINE.COM