Dallas/Fort Worth House & Home Magazine December 2009 Issue

DA L L AS / FO R T WO R T H

T TH HE E C CO OM MP PL LE ET TE E R RE ES SO OU UR RC CE E M MA AG GA AZ Z II N NE E F FO OR R Y YO OU UR R H HO OM ME E

D E C E M B E R

2 0 0 9

2010

Kitchen Bath GUIDE

KITCHEN & BATH SPECIAL ISSUE FEATURING: • QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU REMODEL • CREATING THE MODERN BATH • THE KITCHEN WORK TRIANGLE • KITCHEN & BATH WORKBOOK

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE FABULOUS FIREPLACES

A t te n t i o n to D e t a i l . . .Ve r s at i l i t y. . . F i n e Wo r k m a n s h i p

E

xcellence in materials, coupled with superior craftsmanship, equals timeless beauty and a lifetime of quality in the finished product.

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contents

D A L L A S/F O R T W O R T H

D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9 | Vo l . 8 I s s u e 1 2

20

departments

6 8

Editor’s Note Around Town

Out and about in the Metroplex

10

What’s New

12

Green House

32

Cooking At Home

34

Gardening

14

Awards, store openings and more Avoiding the Garbage Grinch Holiday baking with pumpkin

features

14

Kitchen & Bath Guide 15 Questions to Ask Before You Remodel

Stopping Crepe Murder

19 The Modern Bath

on the cover

22 The Kitchen Work Triangle

Blending traditional with modern, this kitchen by Hatfield Builders (www.hatfield builders.net) features hand-scraped oak flooring, black galaxy granite countertops, a glass tile backsplash, custom cabinetry, pendant lighting and stainless steel appliances.

Photography by Ken Vaughan

24 Kitchen & Bath Workbook

4

26 30

Holiday Gift Guide

Perfect presents for the season Fabulous Fireplace Makeover

Enjoy warmth and comfort all year long

house& home | D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

PUBLISHED BY

MBH PUBLISHING, LLC

PUBLISHER . . . . . . .Mike Harrison, Ph.D. EDITOR & ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amanda Flatten ART DIRECTOR . . . . . . . . . .Robert Coplin EDITORIAL INTERN . . . . . .Marie Williams CONTRIBUTING WRITERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leigh Bell, Jeffrey Jacoby, Tyson Woods ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES . ..Colleen Ballew, . . . . . . . . . Dawn Betrus, Amy Bouaazzi, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..Tammi Greene OFFICE MANAGER . . . . . . . Cheryl Collier PRINTING . . . . . . . . . DROR International MBH Inc., dba Dallas/For t Wor th House & Home ("DFWH&H"), is a news magazine with emphasis on interior design and remodeling.

House & Home does not knowingly accept false or misleading adver tising or editorial content, nor does H&H or its staff assume responsibility should such adver tising or editorial content appear in any publication.

House & Home has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has not verified claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products.

House & Home makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by adver tisers. 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 2009, all rights reserved. Subscriptions available for home delivery at a cost of $25 per year.

P.O. Box 117023 Carrollton, TX 75011-7023 972.395.3409

BEFORE BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

editor’s note The kitchen and bath are two of the most popular rooms to remodel.

While revamping these spaces can be expensive, it will add the most value to your home.

Beginning on Page 14, our 2010 Kitchen & Bath Guide tackles all the issues homeowners face when transforming these important rooms. Hours and hours of planning, research and effort go into getting the perfect kitchen or bath. Whether you are updating an existing space, or building a new home, this guide provides the resources you need to get the result you want.

Cost, foundation, time, style — you must take everything into consideration before you take on a kitchen or bath redo.

On Page 15, discover all the questions you need to ask yourself before beginning a project, from how much money you are willing to invest and the goals you want to achieve, to where to start and determining the areas in which you should spend the most money.

Then in “Building Blocks of the Modern Bath” on Page 19, find out how the modern bath has changed over the years. Today’s homeowners want a spaquality bathroom, and every aspect is essential to create a special retreat: fixtures, cabinets, mirrors, lighting and more.

The guide concludes with a complete worksheet that will help you determine all the details and materials that are most important to create the look and function you desire most in your kitchen or bath.

Also in this issue, check out the best local gift ideas in the Holiday Gift Guide on Page 26. Finally on Page 30, turn up the warmth in your home with ideas about how to transform your fireplace into a showpiece.

Happy holidays from everyone at House & Home.

AMANDA FLATTEN Editor

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around town December 2009

The Dallas Arboretum is hosting its Holiday Tea times through Wednesday, Dec. 30. The teas take place in the DeGolyer Garden Café and Tea Room, starting at 11 a.m. and ending at 2 p.m. Cost is $35 per person.

The Valley House Gallery is honored to present its fourth exhibition of work by Spanish artist Miguel Zapata, titled “Miguel Zapata, New Work.” The exhibit runs through Saturday, Dec. 12.

The Valley House Gallery is located at 6616 Spring Valley Rd., Dallas (between Preston and Hillcrest).

Information: 972.239.2441 or www.valleyhouse.com Check out the new Four Seasons Market, debuting at the Firewheel Town Center. Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors can enjoy products from local farmers, specialty food producers and local craftsmen, while sampling and purchasing select products. The Firewheel Town Center is located at 245 Cedar Sage, Garland.

Information: 214.295.7463 or www.fourseasonsmarkets.com Anteks Home Furnishings, 1135 Dragon St., Dallas, is hosting the Shiprock Santa Fe Trunk Show on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4 and 5.

Jed Foutz and Jamie Way will showcase vintage Navajo blankets, rugs and a selection of historic and contemporary jewelry from Shiprock Santa Fe Collection. A public preview with cocktails will be Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., while appraisals and viewing will be from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Admission is free. Information: 214.528.5567 or www.antekshome.com The Plaza at Preston Center, 8300-

8

8400 Preston Rd. and 4001-4033 E. Northwest Highway, Dallas, welcomes Santa and his reindeer, Comet and Cupid, for the 13th annual Santa Days. On Dec. 5, 12 and 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., kids can have their picture taken with Santa and his reindeer for free, while enjoying the plaza’s holiday décor and unique shops. Santa Days is perfect for kids to give Santa their wish lists and parents to get a head start on holiday shopping. Information: 469.232.0000 or www.theplazaatprestoncenter.com The Colleyville Women’s Club and the Star-Telegram kick off the 25th Anniversary Holiday Home Tour on Sunday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The tour features five exquisite residences, all beautifully decorated for the holidays. Santa’s Elves and Gift Shop will be located at one of the residences, featuring snacks, as well as special gifts for purchase such as cookie mix jars, holiday accessory gift baskets and the club cookbook, Black Tie & Boots. Raffle tickets also will be available. Tour tickets may be purchased in advance for $20 or bought on the day of the tour for $25. Information: 817.358.1805 or www.c-w-c.org

By MARIE WILLIAMS and ending at 2 p.m. Cost is $35 per person and RSVP is required.

Then, bring the entire family out to be a part of Holiday at the Arboretum. Immediately following your tea, enjoy a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a live reindeer and the “Artistry of the Nativity” display, located in the DeGolyer Estate. This work features 500 creations depicting cultural interpretations of the nativity. The event goes through Jan. 3. Information: 214.215.6500 or www.dallasarboretum.org The Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth, is hosting its annual Birds’ Christmas Tree on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. During this free event, kids can enjoy visiting with Santa, seeing the Botanic Garden Squirrel, Smokey the Bear and a children’s violin ensemble.

Children should bring biodegradable bird feeders to hang in the trees of the Botanic Garden’s Grove.

Information: 817.871.7686 or www.fwbg.org Get your holiday off to a fun start with a western-themed family event.

The Fort Worth Stockyards, 130 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth, kicks off Christmas in the Stockyards on Dec. 5, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Kids can enjoy everything from pony rides, chicken roping, a petting zoo, carriage rides, writing letters to Cowboy Santa and caroling. There’s

also live entertainment and the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree for everyone. The event is free.

Information: 817.625.9715 or www.fortworthstockyards.org Whether fresh from the oven or enjoyed as a snack between holiday shopping, cookies are a delicious treat during the holidays. Sunday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m., take part in an intense, yet fun cookie workshop at Sur La Table, 4527 Travis Street, Dallas. During the Holiday Cookies class, Chef Natasha Berlin will share great recipes to use at home or for gifts. Cost is $69.

Information: 214.219.4479 or www.surlatable.com The Dallas Architecture Forum continues its 14th Season of Lectures with the Executive Director of Philip Johnson’s Glass House and Christy Maclear for The Bob James Memorial Lecture on Thursday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. in the Horchow Auditorium at the Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood St., Dallas. Single tickets, available at the door only, are $20 for general admission, $10 for DMA members and $5 for students with I.D. Dallas Architecture Forum members are admitted for free. The reception will begin at 6:15 p.m.

Information: 214.764.2406 or www.dallasarchitectureforum.org

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s annual Birds’ Christmas Tree event is Saturday, Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Children should bring biodegradable bird feeders to hang in the trees of the Botanic Garden’s Grove.

Enjoy select teas and scrumptious treats prepared to put you in the holiday spirit. The Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, is hosting its Holiday Tea through Wednesday, Dec. 30. The teas take place in the DeGolyer Garden Café and Tea Room, starting at 11 a.m.

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what’s new

By MARIE WILLIAMS

published to recognize remodeling firms in six areas such as annual sales volume for the previous year, total number of years in business, association membership, certified employees on staff, industry awards and community service.

For more information, call 800.513.2250 or visit www.casefranchise.com

Countertop Valet, a new service debuting in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, will come directly to your home and install custom, high-quality countertops in a minimum of three days.

Aspenmark Roofing Solutions, a premier Dallas roofing company, has partnered with Owens Corning, a global leader in building materials and insulation. Aspenmark will offer insulation service on all residential roofing products with the use of the Owens Corning AttiCat System and Pink Fiberglass Insulation. Owens Cornings’ Pink Fiberglass uses 35 percent recycled content, and its insulation is an eco-friendly, energyefficient product that has earned the Energy Star Home seal from the U.S. government. Aspenmark Roofing is located at 4730 Carol Lane, Dallas. For information, call 214.823.7663 or visit www.aspen markroofing.com.

Countertop Valet, a new service debuting in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, will come directly to your home and install custom, high-quality countertops in a minimum of three days. As a special added bonus, the company is offering complimentary cheese boards made out of Silestone quartz, one of the many countertop materials. For information, call 888.508.2538 to schedule an appointment with a personal kitchen stylist or visit www.countertopvalet.com.

Jennings Plumbing Services is now offering Noritz Tankless Water Heaters. For more information, call 972.492.5369.

10

Thirteen remodeling companies in Greater Dallas were named local winners in the 2010 Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award competition in 19 different categories. These awards are part of the annual competition held by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

NARI Greater Dallas members receiving local CotY Awards include: Residential Kitchen under $40,000: USI Remodeling Residential Kitchen $40,000 to $80,000: Servant Remodeling Residential Kitchen $80,000 to $120,000: Euro Builders and Remodelers Residential Kitchen over $120,000: Terrasse Properties Residential Bath under $30,000: B&R Custom Remodeling Residential Bath $30,000 to $60,000: Euro Builders and Remodelers

Residential Bath over $60,000: Terrasse Properties Residential Interior under $100,000: DecoArte Residential Addition under $100,000: Terrasse Properties Residential Addition $100,000 to $250,000: von Gillern Construction Residential Exterior under $100,000: DecoArte Residential Exterior $100,000 and over: Traver Construction Residential Exterior Specialty: RHD Construction Company Entire House under $250,000: Quality Craftsmen Inc. Entire House $500,001 to $1,000,000: Capital Improvements Residential Historical Renovation/ Restoration: Provenance Properties Commercial Interior: R.M. Thompson Company Commercial Exterior: R.M. Thompson Company

245Design, an elite group of Dallasarea residential design professionals, have joined forces to create a dynamic marketing and resource program for its members. Services include: architecture, remodeling, Also at the CotY Awards banquet, construction, land planning and Dallas/Forth Worth House & Home magbuilding. The benefits of the organiazine’s own Tammi Greene, senior zation include increased exposure, account executive, was presented increased sales and profits and NARI’s 2009 Ambassador Award for proexpanded media coverage to promotion of NARI Greater Dallas in the mote products and services. industry. For more information about Charter members include Suzanne NARI Greater Dallas, call 214.943.6274 Brown, Dobson Flooring; Jeffrey or visit www.naridallas.org.

Goodman, Skanadario by Goodman Supply; Barry Hensley, Hensley Premier Builders; Michelynne Terrasse Properties won four NARI CotY Awards, including an award for this modern bath in the Residential Bath over $60,000 category.

McNeeley, RM Squared Productions; Jenny Sandlin, Elegante Iron Inc.; Karen Taylor, Southwest Ink Public Relations; Aubrey Tuggle, Tuggle Design Architecture; Kevin Tuggle InPhase Audio; Geanie Vaughan, Lee Lighting; Elaine Williamson, Architextures Interior Design; and Tyler Wood, Home Artisan Authority. For more information, contact Karen Taylor at 972.677.7926 or e-mail karen.taylor@southwestink.com.

Case Handyman and Remodeling Services has been named on the 2009 Annual National Firms list in remodeling, having achieved the No. 4 ranking by Qualified Remodeler Magazine. The annual listing is

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green house

By JEFFREY JACOBY

Avoiding the Garbage Grinch Oh, the holidays: a season of good will and cheer, merriment and nog. A time for smiling genuinely at your ring-bearing sweetheart or “genuinely” at Aunt Martha’s annual contribution to your ugly sweater collection.

Unfortunately, Santa’s tendency to leave waste in his wake marks the holiday season as the unchallenged Grinch of garbage. In fact, most trash facilities across the United States report a dramatic uptick in waste collection and processing during December and January, in some cases two or three times as much as other months of the year. Good for the trash industry, not so good for the planet. So, given all of the shopping and wrapping and decorating and cooking, the cool toys for the tots and really cool toys for the adults, how does one make their holiday eco-spirit thrive this year?

ON THE FIRST DAY

…

Your kids will hate me for saying this, but the most effective solutions for greening your holiday are also the simplest: Buy less stuff and buy better stuff. After all, the dirty not-so-secret about the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is that consumption reaches its annual peak as we eagerly purchase and discard products new and old, tacky or toxic. Worse, most of your well-considered purchases will unceremoniously end up tossed in the garbage can within six months time, the average lifespan for typical consumer products in the United States. Whether it’s an iPhone or an Xbox, a snow globe or a snow blower, statistics say it will be buried in the ground or burned in a waste incinerator — or, perhaps merrier, banished to the Land of Misfit Toys — before next holiday season. Disposability over durability. That’s why it’s so important to choose quality over quantity in your gift-giving endeavors.

Of course, most of us can’t afford to buy everyone we know a handcrafted, imported, one-of-a-kind … whatever, but we can make wise decisions with our dollars that help avoid causing ecological cold sweats during the fever pitch of holiday consumption. A few tips: Purchase fewer but longer-lasting gifts, services like a gym membership or a day at 12

the spa rather than physical goods, edible or compostable items like a bottle of wine or bath soap for small gifts. Heck, you could even do something naughty like knit Aunt Martha a sweater as a countermeasure for the well-orchestrated public humiliation scheme she exacts upon you every year. Plus, from an environmental perspective, it’s durable, longlasting and, most importantly, it doesn’t add another piece of cheap plastic junk to the already unsustainable waste stream.

UNMERRY E - MESS

In this the digital age, one sector of the holiday economy deserves special mention: electronics. During the holiday buying season, electronic gadgets fly off the shelves (not by themselves … yet) at a lightning-fast clip. Simultaneously, as these new e-toys enter the scene, old e-toys exit — all too often along with yesterday’s garbage. According to U.S. EPA estimates from 2007, Americans discarded more than 200 million computers, cell phones, monitors, keyboards, mice, TVs, DVD and CD players, PDAs and the like. Almost two million tons of electronic devices containing hazardous materials like lead, mercury, cadmium and brominated flame-retardants, among others, were landfilled. And the number continues to rise. In fact, electronic waste — or e-waste — is the fastest-growing portion of the U.S. waste stream and accounts for most of the heavy metals entering trash facilities across the country.

Fostering fear or admonishing the techno-buyer isn’t the point here (hey, it is the holidays, right?). Instead, I believe this is the perfect time of year to remind folks that proper recycling for obsolete electronics is a must while buying the latest whiz-bang gadget is not. Although the new iPhone is really cool (remember, adults get the really cool toys), ask yourself whether or not your year-old iPhone still does the job. After all, the underlying reason we discarded 200 million e-products has less to do with utility or functionality and more to do with the perception of obsolescence. Same rule applies for computers, televisions, gaming systems and the rest of the constantly evolving and expanding universe of electronic playthings. As you fall in love with your new flat screen or Blackberry or netbook, make sure the old one ends up in a safe place.

That’s showing your holiday spirit.

RESOURCES FOR GREENING YOUR HOLIDAY

You can find responsible e-cycling options in a number of communities throughout the Metroplex and the state at www.TexasTakeBack.org. You can see a litany of green gift ideas at www.treehugger.com/giftguide/ or www.green-living.com. For more information on sustainable electronics purchasing and the companies that score highest on an eco-scale, visit www.electronicstakeback.org.

Jeffrey Jacoby is program director for Texas Campaign for the Environment, a grassroots nonprofit working locally and statewide to press for sustainable waste and recycling policies. Call 214.599.7840 or visit www.texasenvironment.org.

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2010

Kitchen Bath GUIDE

COVER: Kitchen Kitchen remodel remodel by by

TRAVER CONSTRUCTION Photography by Ken Vaughan

• QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU REMODEL • BUILDING BLOCKS OF THE MODERN BATH • THE KITCHEN WORK TRIANGLE • KITCHEN & BATH WORKBOOK

Kitchen Bath Guide

Get Ready To Remodel ABOVE: Kitchen Design Concepts transformed a tired M Streets kitchen with a closed floor plan into an open, inviting space. Ceasarstone Champagne Limestone countertops complement KitchenCraft Salem Maple cabinets with a Cappuccino stain. The backsplash includes shimmering glass tiles and tumbled slate.

Take Everything Into Consideration — Cost, Foundation, Details And Desired Outcome — Before You Take On A Kitchen Or Bath Redo

BY LEIGH BELL AND AMANDA FLATTEN

Your Formica kitchen countertops

SELF-REFLECTION

scream 1982, and the bathroom hasn’t changed since you sang REO Speedwagon in the shower. Perhaps it’s time for a remodel.

Don’t just dive in. Outside of adding on, revamping a kitchen or bath is one of the most expensive yet valuable changes you can make to your home. In the Dallas area, a mid-range kitchen remodel runs about $21,000 if it’s minor and about $57,000 if it’s major, and a bath remodel costs about $16,000, according to Remodeling magazine. It’s not cheap, but roughly 78 percent of that money is recouped in increased resale value, says the publication’s 2008-09 “Cost vs. Resale” report.

The right choices are essential to such an important investment. Here are the questions you should ask before remodeling a kitchen or bath.

Before delving too deeply into a remodel, ask yourself a few questions that will better define the job.

1. WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE? Do you want to improve your home because you plan to spend plenty more years there or because you plan to sell it soon? Are you an empty nester needing a fresh start? Are you simply looking to update your home?

2. HOW MUCH AM I WILLING TO INVEST? Prices vary drastically depending on materials, products and depth of remodel that you choose. An upscale, major kitchen remodel costs more than $100,000, or about twice the price of a mid-range one. “Kitchen size is the biggest cost driver,” says Mary Kathryn Reese, co-owner of Kitchen Design Concepts.

15

ABOVE: D&D Remodeling opened up this previously closed off Flower Mound kitchen to the living and dining rooms. Highlights include granite countertops and knotty alder cabinetry. The 8-foot ceiling was replaced with a vaulted, beamed ceiling. Photography by Ken Vaughan.

“The larger the space, the more cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, flooring and walls to paint there are. The second factor is what substantive changes are being made. Does a load-bearing wall have to be moved?

Are you moving work areas, like a sink, from a wall to an island?”

3. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? After design plans are complete, expect a kitchen or bath remodel to take three to six months.

4. AM I WILLING TO INVEST MY MONEY IN WHAT MATTERS? It’s not the sexiest part of a kitchen or bath, but cabinets are the most important aspect of a remodel. This is the foundation upon which everything else lies.

High-dollar granite countertops won’t last on a cheap foundation.

“Semi-custom cabinets are more affordable than full custom cabinetry,” Reese says. “Painted finishes are more expensive than stain, and glazes add to cost, too.”

These remodels take time and thought. You must be willing to spend the effort and the money.

16

WHERE TO BEGIN You’re ready for a remodel, now get prepared.

1. WHERE SHOULD I CONCENTRATE ALL THAT EFFORT AND MONEY? Kitchen, master bath and powder room — secondary baths and laundry rooms are not as important as these three areas to buyers. “If you don’t have the budget to remodel the entire bath, you can freshen up the room with new plumbing fixtures or a new toilet,” says Kathy Richardson, sales manager at Pierce Decorative Hardware and Plumbing, adding that convenience items are a hit in the kitchen.

“Homeowners are going for stainless steel one bowl sinks, pot fillers over the cooktop, instant hot water systems and water filtration systems.”

2. HOW DO I START? Seek professional help, but make sure it’s the right kind of help. Ask contractors if they are licensed, can provide references and are registered with the Better Business Bureau. Certified kitchen and bath designers

house& home | D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

know that certain details are germane to these rooms.

The work triangle, traffic flow, heights of countertops and tables make a huge difference in the way a kitchen functions. Designers certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association have been independently evaluated and tested and improve their skills through ongoing education and professional development.

3. CAN I HAVE MY NEW KITCHEN TOMORROW? In a word, no. Have you ever done a remodel before?

“It’s important to establish the expectations of the buyer,” says Kitty Decareaux, vice president of cabinet sales at Factory Builder Stores. “Remodels usually create a bigger mess and take longer than most people expect.”

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS It’s time to make decisions and dig into details.

1. WHAT DO I LIKE/DISLIKE ABOUT MY CURRENT KITCHEN OR BATH?

ABOVE: This “Minimal” kitchen from the Varenna Collection of Poliform USA shows just one possible arrangement of the line’s kitchen components — in a very sleek way. Scott + Cooner is Poliform USA dealer.

Part of the Country Kitchen Collection, the ROHL Wall Mounted Country Kitchen Swing Arm Pot Filler with Cross Handle extends for use over front and rear burners and neatly folds away when not in use. It retails for $845 and is available at Pierce Decorative Hardware and Plumbing.

Narrow down the qualities you’d like to throw out and those you want to keep and/or enhance. “This enables a designer to realize the client’s expectations and meet or exceed them,” Decareaux says.

2. WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE AM I SEEKING IN MY NEW BATH OR KITCHEN? Will the kitchen be used mostly for entertaining or gathering the family while cooking a meal? Do you bake or cook regularly? In the bath, do you want an invigorating shower or a relaxing soaking bath? These answers will determine everything from design to product choice and placement.

3. WHAT’S ALL THIS TERMINOLOGY MEAN? You’ll hear a lot of phrases thrown out, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with some of them to be aware of choices, says Paul Home, director of product and marketing at Grand Hall USA Inc. He suggests studying up on types of water heaters: tank, tankless and hybrid. Types of piping: copper or the popular PEX piping. Recirculation: a retrofit system that

Factory Builder Stores’ transitional bath includes his and her sinks and vanities in a painted white finish, along with plenty of storage space in tall matching cabinets.

The contrasting dark-framed mirrors are flanked by soft-light sconces.

provides hot water instantly, but has some setbacks. And finally, thermostatic mixing valves (TMX): blend hot and cold water at user-specified location to provide consistent temperatures so the shower doesn’t go hot when someone flushes the toilet.

4. DO I WANT TO SPEND MONEY ON HIGH-END PRODUCTS AND MATERIALS? Again, first invest in the foundation of a room, and the rest depends on your budget. “If you’re going to stay in a house for more than 5 years, then you can justify spending more on the look or functionality you want because you’ll have the benefit of living with and enjoying your investment,” Reese says. “If you don’t spend much time in the kitchen, then there’s no need to spend extra. Just do the basics.”

GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK Kitchens and bathrooms make more waste and use more energy than any other room in the house, so it’s important to consider the environment during a remodel.

Sanjay Ahuja, vice president at PF Waterworks, helps with eco-conscious questions.

1. WHAT TECHNIQUES WILL HELP ME CONSUME LESS? Daylight harvesting (sensors determine daylight and adjust artificial light accordingly), thermostats, dimmers and tankless water heaters.

2. WHAT SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS CAN I USE IN MY REMODEL? Recycled paper countertops, any recycled content like antique tiles, cork flooring, PermaFLOW self-cleaning drains and bamboo cabinets.

3. HOW DO I KNOW THAT I’M BUYING “GREEN” PRODUCTS? Look for the following labels: natural/nontoxic, lowembodied energy, sustainably harvested, recyclable/biodegradable, recycled content, locally harvested and durable.

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LEFT: This remodeled kitchen by Elite Remodeling features a 3cm Golden Namibia Granite countertop with square edges and custom cabinets — lower cabinets were painted a Sheraton Sage with a light glaze, while the upper and full height cabinets were painted Bone White with a light glaze along the seams and edges. Hand scraped hardwood floors and roughsawn faux beams on the ceiling add to the warm, inviting feel of this kitchen.

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BUILDING BLOCKS of the

Kitchen Bath Guide

MODERN BATH

TODAY’S BATH NEEDS SPACE—AND PLENTY OF IT—ALONG WITH GOOD FIXTURES, CABINETS, MIRRORS AND LIGHTING TO CREATE A RELAXING SPA-LIKE ENVIRONMENT

B y L E I G H B E L L A N D A M A N D A F L AT T E N

ABOVE LEFT & THIS IMAGE: Dornbracht’s Supernova bathroom by Sieger Design features a suite of fittings for tub, lavaABOVE: The Jeton Collection

tory, bidet and shower. The Supernova waterfall tub filler releases a sparkling sheet of water from its broad squared tap.

by designer Bill Sofield for Kallista combines the classicism of 20th century French architecture and the spontaneity of haute couture. The collection may be ordered through Morrison Supply Co. and any-

Beyond the kitchen, our bathroom is the most utilitarian space in the house, and let’s be honest: We spend a lot of time there.

where Kohler products are sold.

RIGHT: This tub by interior designers Ludovica and Roberto Palomba is part of a larger suite of bath products for the Swiss manufacturer, Laufen. Find Laufen products through TKO Associates in Dallas.

It reflects our lifestyle. So, we can’t talk about the modern bath without talking about the modern lifestyle and how the evolution of American living has transformed the bathroom.

These days, both parents work and together raise a busy family that likely consists of children, and sometimes, an aging mother or father. Then there’s the baby-boomer couple who are emptying the nest and making a home that will age with them.

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No matter its demographics, households have tightened the purse strings in this “Now the size struggling economy, and, although the average of the master bath house downsized by 200 rivals the size of the square feet since last year, the bathroom is larger master bedroom.” than ever.

What does that say —Diana Schrage about the modern bath?

Senior Interior Designer, A lot.

Kohler First, the bathroom must be important if it’s growing while A glass shower by Fashion Glass & Mirror keeps this bathroom open and airy and house size shrinks. Today’s households allows the beautiful tile work in the shower to shine through. have higher demands, to which the modern bath must respond. It’s spacious and makes better use of space. It facilitates two people simultaneously getting CALGON TAKE ME AWAY dressed. It’s friendly to the environment and baby boomer’s wheelchairs or If one thing has influenced the modern bath it’s the spa, Schrage says. arthritic knees. The modern bath is a refuge and spa-like, as families cutback on “Homeowners want the bathroom to be a place where they can pamper outside luxuries but still need a “getaway.” It’s a place to linger. themselves and relax, a place to soak in the bath after a long day at work,” The modern bath must be many things. And larger is the greatest request. says Kathy Richardson, sales manager at Pierce Decorative Hardware and The average bath today is three times larger than 20 years ago, says Kohler’s Senior Interior Designer Diana Schrage. “Now, the size of the master bath rivals Plumbing. “Freestanding tubs with sleek floor-mounted faucets add to that feeling of tranquility.” the size of the master bedroom,” she says.

Light and open is the key to the spa-like bathroom, as well. “In the modern bath, bigger and brighter is better,” says Chris Galbraith, sales manager for TANDEM BATHS Fashion Glass & Mirror.

Fewer stay-at-home moms and more domestic partners mean two people are Products abound to help, allowing the “spa concept” to go from simgetting ready for work each morning in American bathrooms. This societal shift requires two vanities and sinks, a larger shower — often with two heads for per- ple — replace the clutter with a few candles — to extreme. These are just a few examples. sonal temperature and water-pressure preferences — and, if not two separate Kohler offers VibrAcoustic bathtubs ($3,000ish to $6,000ish) that emit lavatories, then one private toilet. soundwave vibrations beneath the water that choreograph with above-water The bathroom becomes a meeting place for couples in the morning. They music and colors to control breathing and achieve different goals from calming plan the day — who’s picking up the kids, what’s for dinner — while shaving, and relaxation. putting on makeup and getting dressed.

Chromatherapy in bathtubs and showers ($2,000ish to $10,000+) distribute The divided bath often includes a vanity, and shared countertops separate light throughout your entire shower or bathroom. Steam showers with jets and space at varying heights, maybe 36 inches on one side and 42 inches on the other accoutrements is an entire market, and some bathtubs allow aromatic oils other, with a raised toe kick and stock cabinetry beneath.

“Regardless of space, we are seeing the separation of the bathroom,” Schrage to be infused in the bath water.

Toilets light up, heat up, play music, and wash and dry you. (Check out says. “Each may have a privatized toilet and storage. They don’t have to be huge, Toto’s Neorest 600 for about $3,000). The list of luxurious indulgences go on. but it’s a degree of separation.”

The Ilbagnoalessi One tub by Italian designer Stafeno Giovannoni of Alessi for Laufen is a modern classic.

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High-priced purchases for the bathroom “are still occurring but people must perceive that they add value to the home,” Schrage says.

THE SPA SPACE

RIGHT: In this innovative mirrored cabinet by Robern, a subsidiary of Kohler, the mirrored door lights

straight up and holds The “spa experience” has also greatly influenced in position, enabling the design and lighting lights and faucets to of the modern the bath, be placed in front of reducing aesthetic to the cabinet. Elegant simply minimal.

Additions and Smaller baths realize this look with higher ceilMorrison supply carry ings, plenty of glass and Robern cabinets. smartly placed mirrors.

“Seamless glass showers and focal mirrors open up a room and can make even a small bathroom look bigger,” Galbraith says.

Homeowners don’t have to give up the feeling of luxury, even in smaller spaces. “If you only have room for a tub/shower combo, you can still have the same luxury, and air tubs come in all sizes,” Richardson says.

Contributing to the overall ascetic look is cabinetry with clean lines that opens at the bottom — about 12 to 18 inches — and sits on slim legs, all of which create the sense of space and openness.

Innovations in glass tile and its sleek style are ideal for the modern bath and can be mixed with natural stone, like limestone and marble, in bathrooms.

Integrated basins and countertops, plenty of glass and doorless showers also contribute to the spa-look. Clutter is hidden in recessed-wall compartments, oversized under-sink storage and additional linen closets outside of the bathroom. After all, most of us are minimalist-minded but have a lot of stuff.

RIGHT: A Fire and Ice bathroom created for Kohler by designer Beth Slifer lets alternating warm and cool tones and textures highlight the delicate balance of nature in this eco-friendly bathroom. Here, the warmth of the lighting balances with cool glass lavatory sinks which rest on a recycled concrete counter-

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Dark is out when it comes to color and lighting in the modern bath.

White is the go-to hue these days (52 percent prefer it), and once again, blame it on the spa. Kohler introduced “honed white” “in a direct response to the influences of the spa,” Schrage says.

A splash of dark, on the countertop or in cabinets is common but used judiciously. White reflects and embellishes natural light.

Lighting is a key issue in baths. Poor lighting contributes to shaving nicks and infamous makeup lines.

“Two areas where lighting is crucial are in the shower and at the vanity,” says Mary Kathryn Reese, co-owner of Kitchen Design Concepts. “You need a can light (or an equivalent) in the shower, and it has to be wet rated. At the vanity, it’s ideal to have sconces at head height rather than over-mirror lighting. This is good from a selection standpoint because there are so many choices of beautiful sconces.”

top set into a custom bamboo base cabinet.

RIGHT: Also in Slifer’s eco-friendly bathroom for Kohler, a waterless urinal and high-efficiency toilet save water.

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Kitchen Bath Guide

Your Kitchen’s Work Triangle In a kitchen with three work centers (stove, sink and refrigerator), the sum of the three traveled distances should total no more than 26 feet with no single leg of the triangle measuring less than 4 feet or more than 9 feet.

No major traffic patterns should cross through the basic work triangle.

When the kitchen plan includes more than three primary work centers, each additional travel distance to another work center should measure no less than 4 feet or more than 9 feet. Each leg is measured from the center-front of the appliance/sink. No work triangle leg intersects an island/peninsula or other obstacle by more than 12 inches.

NO LESS THAN 4 FEET

NO MORE THAN 9 FEET

Your Kitchen’s Work Aisle 48”

42”

The width of a work aisle should be at least 42 inches for one cook and at least 48 inches for multiple cooks. Measure the counter frontage, tall cabinets and appliances.

48”

A clear floor space of at least 30 inches by 48 inches should be provided at each kitchen appliance. Clear floor spaces can overlap.

Information adapted with permission from National Kitchen and Bath Association’s Kitchen and Bath Workbook, 2008.

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resources

Not So Fast: The Work Triangle Is Evolving

ALLIED STONE 1520 Selene Dr. #106 Carrollton 972.242.9977 www.alliedstoneinc.com

BY BAROQUE FINEBERG In the past, the kitchen work triangle was considered inviolate, never to be changed. Several factors, however, are causing it to be reinterpreted significantly: larger kitchens with open space, variable appliance sizes and functions, multitask cooking preferences and specialized food and beverage preparation areas. In many families these days, there’s more than one cook in the kitchen. Mom, Dad, the kids, and maybe even their dinner guests might gather in the kitchen to prepare dinner. Modern kitchens today might have two, possibly three, work triangles. (See illustration below.)

With the advent of the open kitchen/great room concept in the late ’80s and early ’90s, kitchen designers were faced with a serious problem: fewer walls to use for storage and appliance placement coupled with homeowners’ growing desire to have it all. This proved to be an asset for talented designers. With fewer walls, designers created new storage techniques for cabinetry such as dish pantries instead of typical wall units. The resulting larger floor space meant kitchen islands could expand and perform a variety of tasks. The expanded kitchen footprint allowed designers to increase storage, enhance function and heighten performance.

In the mid ’90s, Sub-Zero introduced below-the-counter refrigerators and freezers and offered panels to conceal and integrate these appliances seamlessly into cabinetry. This allowed designers to place appliances at point-of-use locations instead of being generally located.

At the same time, new modular cooking components that perform specialized cooking functions instead of just a single free standing range allowed designers to create multiple and even overlapping work triangles. Homeowners can easily specify an 18-inch induction cooking system here, a grill or griddle there, a steamer adjacent to a separate small sink, while the ovens stand nearby. The cooking process has become directed, individualized and even staged.

Because of these new appliances and design formatting, work zones or independent food preparation stations developed. Now with the addition of another sink or water source, a designer can create separate prep, cooking, cleanup or baking centers with more sharing of functions and little or no interference in traffic patterns. The reward of this type of design is that several cooks can work together in the kitchen performing separate tasks with no conflict or overlap. Form, fun and function are neatly tied together.

REFRIGERATOR DRAWERS

SINGLE SINK

D&D REMODELING DESIGN 972.445.3025 www.ddremodeling.com ELEGANT ADDITIONS (To the trade) 150 Turtle Creek Blvd., Ste. 203, Dallas 214.745.0088 www.elegantadditions.net ELITE REMODELING 2930 Preston Rd., Ste. 980 Frisco 972.334.9800 www.elitehome remodeling.com FACTORY BUILDER STORES 512 E. Dallas Rd., Ste. 500 Grapevine 817.410.8868 3833 W. Frwy., Fort Worth 817.570.9621 www.factorybuilder stores.com FASHION GLASS & MIRROR #7 Prestige Circle, Allen 972.747.7557 585 S. Beckly, Desoto 972.223.8936 www.fashionglass.com FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY Arlington: 817.261.2561 Fort Worth: 817.348.8489 Dallas: 214.761.9333 Grapevine: 817.442.0446 www.ferguson.com

RANGETOP/GRILL

INDUCTION COOKING COOKTOP

PREP SINK

CARPET MILLS OF AMERICA 469.46.6631 www.cmaflooring.com

REFRIGERATOR/ FREEZER

Baroque Fineberg is an avid cook who has been designing fine kitchens in Houston for more than 20 years. His work has been recognized and published in design and trade publications nationally and internationally. He may be reached at 713.522.8977.

GRANITE & TILE OUTLET 4757 W. Park. Blvd. Ste. 104, Plano 972.596.3100 3180 FM 407, Highland Village 972.317.5618 www.granitetileoutlet.com JENNINGS PLUMBING SERVICES 972.492.5369

KINGDOM FLOORING 4801 W. Park Blvd. #448 Plano 972.612.8700 www.kingdomfloors.com KITCHEN DESIGN CONCEPTS 2741 East Beltline Rd., Ste. 113, Carrollton 214.390.8300 6322 Gaston Ave., Dallas 214.827.9881 www.kitchendesign concepts.com LAUFEN www.laufen.com MORRISON SUPPLY CO. 1331 E. Plano Pkwy, Ste. A Plano 972.309.0521 www.morsco.com PIERCE DECORATIVE HARDWARE AND PLUMBING Dallas: 214.368.2851 Fort Worth: 817.737.9090 www.piercehardware.com PF WATERWORKS 877.265.9777 www.pfwaterworks.net PTI HARDWOODS 1101 Ohio, Ste. 108 Plano 214.778.2462 www.ptihardwoods.com RES REMODELING 972.345.6364 www.resremodeling.com ROCK YOUR HOUSE 817.366.4030 469.233.6987 www.rockyourhouse.com SCOTT + COONER 1617 HI Line Dr., Ste 100 Dallas 214.748.9838 www.scottcooner.com TILE EXPO 13830 N. Stemmons Frwy.

Farmers Branch 972.241.3150 TKO ASSOCIATES 230 Decorative Center Dallas 214.741.6060 www.tkoassoc.com WALKER ZANGER www.walkerzanger.com 23

Kitchen Specifics

Kitchen Bath Guide NEW CONSTRUCTION OR REMODEL? _____________________________________

HARDWARE ______________

Appliances WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR CURRENT KITCHEN? _____________________________________ WHAT DOESN’T WORK IN YOUR EXISTING KITCHEN? _____________________________________ IF SPACE PERMITS WOULD YOU LIKE AN EATING/SEATING AREA OR AN ISLAND? FOR HOW MANY PEOPLE? _____________________________________

Check one: YOUR STYLE: TRADITIONAL MODERN TRANSITIONAL ECLECTIC VICTORIAN ROMANTIC ARTS & CRAFTS COUNTRY WHAT COLOR SCHEMES APPEAL TO YOU? _____________________________________ YOU ENTERTAIN: FREQUENTLY OCCASIONALLY NEVER NUMBER OF COOKS REGULARLY USING YOUR KITCHEN: ONE TWO MORE THAN TWO CHILDREN COOK WITH ME

Cabinets WANT ALL NEW CABINETRY CABINET LINE ______________________ CABINET STYLE _____________________ COLOR _____________________________ FINISH _____________________________ HARDWARE _________________________ CEILING HEIGHT OR STANDARD WANT TO REMODEL EXISTING CABINETS NEW CABINET DOORS PAINT EXISTING CABINET DOORS STAIN OR WASH WOOD OF EXISTING CABINET DOORS COLOR ___________________ FINISH ___________________ 24

COOKTOP GAS ELECTRIC HALOGEN INDUCTION COMBINATION OVEN GAS ELECTRIC CONVECTION COMBINATION OTHER RANGE GAS ELECTRIC CONVECTION HALOGEN INDUCTION COMBO SLIDE-IN DROP-IN VENTILATED UNIT MICROWAVE MODEL _____________________________________________________________ FEATURES ________________________________________________________ FINISH ______________________________________________________________ CLEAN-UP DISHWASHER COMPACTOR DISPOSAL UNDER-COUNTER TRASH RECEPTACLE RECYCLING CENTER REFRIGERATOR SIDE-BY-SIDE FREEZER TOP FREEZER BOTTOM FREEZER SIDE-BY-SIDE CHEST WASHER AND DRYER YES NO

Countertops WOOD GRANITE

house& home | D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

MARBLE QUARTZ LAMINATE CONCRETE SOLID SURFACE TILE RECYCLED MATERIALS

Flooring WOOD TILE (CERAMIC) VINYL CARPET MARBLE CONCRETE CORK OTHER

Fixtures/Fittings SINK SINGLE BOWL DOUBLE BOWL TRIPLE BOWL VEGETABLE UTILITY CERAMIC STAINLESS STEEL CAST IRON OTHER MATERIAL________________________________________ ROOM FOR WALK-IN PANTRY YES NO SPECIALTY ITEMS APPLIANCE GARAGE BAKING CENTER BEVERAGE CENTER W/ UNDER-COUNTER FRIDGE COFFEE CENTER W/ ESPRESSO MACHINE ICE MAKER PURIFIED WATER DISPENSER UPDRAFT HOOD CORNER CABINETS WINE RACK DRAWER DIVIDERS PULL-OUT WASTE BINS SLIDING SHELVES LAZY SUSAN SPICE RACK GLASS IN DOORS CROWN MOLDING PET FOOD STORAGE FLAT-SCREEN TV DESK WITH COMPUTER AND INTERNET ACCESS OTHER ACCESSORY____________________

workbook

Bath Specifics Check one: YOUR STYLE: TRADITIONAL MODERN TRANSITIONAL ECLECTIC VICTORIAN ROMANTIC ARTS & CRAFTS COUNTRY BATHING HABITS: DAILY SHOWER ONLY DAILY SHOWER, OCCASIONAL BATH DAILY BATH ONLY DAILY BATH, OCCASIONAL SHOWER

Cabinets WANT ALL NEW CABINETRY CABINET LINE __________________________ CABINET STYLE ________________________ COLOR _________________________________ FINISH _________________________________ HARDWARE ____________________________ WANT TO REMODEL EXISTING CABINETS NEW CABINET DOORS PAINT EXISTING CABINET DOORS STAIN OR WASH WOOD OF EXISTING CABINET DOORS COLOR _________________________________ FINISH _________________________________ HARDWARE ____________________________

Fixtures/Fittings SINK SINGLE BOWL DOUBLE BOWL TRIPLE BOWL LAVATORY PEDESTAL VESSEL CERAMIC STAINLESS STEEL CAST IRON OTHER MATERIAL _______________________

FAUCET #1 STYLE _____________________________________ FAUCET #2 STYLE _____________________________________

TOILET TOILET MODEL _____________________________________ BIDET BIDET MODEL _____________________________________ TUB TUB FIXTURES _____________________________________ SHOWER SHOWER FIXTURES _____________________________________ WHIRLPOOL/SPA WHIRLPOOL FIXTURES _____________________________________

Safety Features GRAB BARS TEMPERATURE CONTROL VALVES OTHER _________________________________

Washer and dryer YES NO

Vanity Countertops WOOD GRANITE MARBLE QUARTZ LAMINATE CONCRETE SOLID SURFACE TILE RECYCLED MATERIALS

Flooring WOOD TILE (CERAMIC) VINYL CARPET MARBLE CONCRETE OTHER _________________________________

Specialty Items TOWEL WARMER STEAM SHOWER FLAT-SCREEN TV COFFEE STATION

Lighting GENERAL INCANDESCENT FLUORESCENT HALOGEN TASK INCANDESCENT FLUORESCENT HALOGEN ACCENT INCANDESCENT FLUORESCENT HALOGEN

Bathrooms should have a minimum floor to ceiling height of 80 inches over the fixture and at the front clearance area for fixtures.

A shower or tub equipped with a showerhead should have a minimum floor to ceiling height of 80 inches above a minimum area 30 inches by 30 inches at the showerhead.

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HOLIDAY

Gift Guide IDEAS FOR SPECTACULAR PRESENTS

By MARIE WILLIAMS L E F T : Mecox Gardens has

unique spun glass accessories, per fect for a holiday gift. The Odin Vase comes in Smoke Glass or Clear Glass.

Cost is $188. 214.580.3800, www.mecoxgardens.com R I G H T : The gift of going green is all the rage this year. ECOBAGS Classic String Bags are great for eco-friendly grocer y shopping without plastic bags.

These string totes come in many colors, are machine washable and can hold up to 40 pounds. Single bags star t at $5.25 or are available in sets of five for $22.

800.720.BAGS, www.ECOBAGS.com

A B O V E : Give the per fect hostess gift with these cute, penguinshaped salt and pepper shakers by Jonathan Adler, priced at $48. The shakers come packaged in retro boxes and are made from high-fired stoneware, finished in matte white and black glazes. 214.373.4444, www.nestdallas.com

B E L O W R I G H T : Give the coffee-lover in your family a unique gift with

the new Bamboo Coffee Vault. The eco-friendly Bamboo Coffee Vault works as a coffee vault, small cigar vault or packaged tea box. It’s also available in a rosewood finish. The price is $31.58.

469.398.2108, www.proformagreen.com L E F T : Children can send

postcards to their loved ones this holiday season with special junior postcards by boutique stationer Felix Doolittle.

Sold in sets of 20, a set features five different illustrations (holiday and non-holiday themes available) each with a different color border. Each set is $30. Shown: A non-holiday themed set by ar tist Felix Fu. 617.969.8883, www.felixdoolittle.com

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house& home | D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

A B O V E : A Williams-Sonoma customer favorite is the Spiced Chestnut Oils Collection, featuring a comfor ting blend of butter y fragrance of chestnut essence, spiced up with aromatic cinnamon and clove. All products are biodegradable.

Prices may var y as each item in the collection can be purchased separately or in certain sets. www.williams-sonoma.com

A B O V E : Add some zest to any tree this season with a handblown glass ornament, $28 each at Kittrell Riffkind Ar t Glass. Shown: hand-blown glass ornament by ar tist Michael Trimpol. Also, delicate vases will add color to any par t of the home. Available in an assor tment of colors, 6 inches x 4 inches. Cost is $44 each. Shown: Fun Ruffled Glass Vase by ar tist Bill Burch. 972.239.7957, www.kittrellriffkind.com R I G H T : Have fun this holiday season playing your favorite games at home or on the road with a travel game set, contained in a wooden game box, available at Potter y Barn for $99. This travel set includes a deck of cards, checkers, tictac-toe, dominos, poker chips, dice, a playing board and pieces for chess. www.potter ybarn.com

A B O V E : Make those holiday meals stand out this year with the best flatware. Stiletto by ar tist Broggi is sold at Ligne Roset in Dallas. This elegant stainless steel flatware is priced at $180 per place setting and comes with a storage pouch. 214.526.2220, www.ligne-roset-usa.com

A B O V E : The per fect home accessor y this holiday season is a throw pillow by ar tist Pulvemacher available at Write Selection. Choose from a santa claus or Christmas tree printed pattern. The pillows sell for $85 each.

214.750.0531. www.writeselection.net

27

A B O V E : Give the gift of interior design to someone special this season, with a gift cer tificate from award-winning interior designer Margaret Chambers, who will assist in all designing and decorating needs. Gift cer tificates are available star ting at $250 and can be used for merchandise or an interior design consultation (good for 2 hours). 214.651.7665, www.chambersinteriors.com

A B O V E : Star t those cold mornings off right with a hot cup of coffee. Green Mountain Coffee has a variety of selections that come with the Fair Trade Organic Sampler. Complete with three 10-ounce bags, choose from French Roast, Sumatran Reser ve and Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, all for the price of $24.95. 802.882.2270, www.greenmountaincoffee.com

R I G H T : Santa is coming to McShan

L E F T : Add a special ornament to

Florist. Placed on a wooden slab, Santa comes with a decorated christmas tree and sleigh full of Christmas trim, 22 inches x 14 inches. Cost is $65 (order online or call the store).

214.324.2481, www.mcshan.com

the tree this year: Tango Zango is featuring three different kinds of fairies, each unique in style.

Choose from royal fairies, stocking holder or wine bag fairies. The royal fair y creates both a fun and whimsical mood, although each handcrafted costume gives each fair y a personality all its own.

Fairies come in various sizes and prices, beginning at $32. Shown: “Royal Fair y” by ar tist Mark Rober ts. 214.890.0202, www.tangozango.com

A B O V E : A really cool, fun home accessor y is the Tokyo Bay “Tank” Robot Alarm Clock, $54, available at DH Collection, a modern home accessories store. 817.877.1994, www.dhcollection.com R I G H T : Add a little western flavor to your holiday this year.

Teskey’s Saddle Shop in Weather ford has ever ything from boots and saddles to western fashion for men and women.

The company also sells picture frames. These handmade Mexican-style picture frames are $174.99 and $179.99.

888.955.2955, www.teskeys.com 28

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JENNINGS Plumbing Services WE KEEP LIFE FLOWING SMOOTHLY

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972.345.6364 mail@resremodeling.com www.resremodeling.com

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angeles.housekeeping@yahoo.com If your home is less than 2 years old DON’T call SafeRock Inspections at 1-877-ROCK-911.

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29

The Montecito Estate wood-burning fireplace, from the Dave Lennox Signature Collection, offers outstanding heat output and is highly efficient. The 4.0 cu. ft. firebox with 30-inch log capacity is one of the largest available in its category. It combines the craftsmanship of a traditional masonry fireplace with clean and powerful non-catalytic combustion heating. The selection of doors and facades allows you to achieve a customized look that reflects your style. Available at Chimney King

Fabulous Fireplace Makeovers Enjoy warmth and comfort throughout the year

By MARIE WILLIAMS With cold weather and the holidays among us, there’s nothing like an evening spent enjoying a warm fire.

A fireplace serves as a focal point of a room, while bringing both warmth and comfort into the home. Options abound, from wood burning and ventless to direct-vent gas. And the fireplace surround is just as important as the type of fireplace you have. An outdated fireplace surround can be an eye-sore, but an updated surround can change the feeling of the whole room. “With a fireplace update, a homeowner can increase energy efficiency, while updating and increasing home value,” says Casey Arnold, co-owner of Rock Your House.

SO MANY STYLES

Homeowners can customize their fireplace by choosing among a multitude of styles. A cast stone fireplace provides a smooth, molded fireplace surround, while basic stone gives the fireplace a traditional, old-world feel or modern look. Adobe or stucco adds a southwestern look. If you want bold and creative, then add a keystone along the eyebrow of a brick fireplace, giving it a European or Mediterranean look.

Bob Gross, owner of Chimney King, says stone is one of the more popular surrounds in North Texas today. “Many people choose cultured stone because this specific type looks like real stone, is fairly lightweight and easy to apply,” he says.

GETTING THE PERFECT LOOK

There are two ways to improve the quality of any room with an existing fireplace. One way involves upgrading an older fireplace by choosing a modern look by painting old brick or re-facing the surround with a unique natural stone, which will make the fireplace stand out. The other option is to have a fireplace insert added; this replaces a worn out or inefficient fireplace.

If choosing a new fireplace surround is the answer for your room, Arnold says there are many different types of stone to choose from, with the three most popular being Austin chalk, stack stone and random-pattern fieldstone.

“A fireplace can be designed to have a rustic, modern or very old-world look,” Arnold says.

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CHOOSING A TYPE OF FIREPLACE

Fireplaces are customized according to specific materials used and by the type of fireplace the homeowner selects. A wood-burning fireplace can burn a variety of materials, such as real wood split logs or manufactured logs. However, wood-burning fireplaces build up soot and produce more smoke, increasing the cost of chimney maintenance. Pricing can range from $1,500 to $4,000 to add a wood-burning fireplace, depending on size and structure.

A direct-vent gas fireplace is energy-efficient, less costly to install and has no soot buildup or odor from burned logs. However, use of gas is costly and there’s an added danger of gas leaks. The price range is the same as a wood-burning fireplace.

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From Lennox, the Merit Series louverless direct-vent (MLDVT) gas fireplaces deliver the clean, elegant presentation of a true louverless design. Inside, the fireplaces produce tall flames and a warm ember glow at very low BTUs, reducing energy consumption and costs without sacrificing fire quality. Find Lennox products at Chimney King.

RESOURCES ROCK YOUR HOUSE 503 Austin Creek Drive, Grapevine 817.366.4030 www.rockyourhouse.com CHIMNEY KING 2001-B West Parker Rd., Plano 972.312.9244 www.chimneyking.net HEARTHSIDE FIREPLACE SHOP 14221 Inwood Rd., Farmers Branch 972.385.9437 www.hear thsideshop.com

Ventless fireplaces involve less construction, can be placed in any room, Rock Your House refaced an existing brick fireplace with stacked stone featuring a keystone to bring a rustic, cost less and require no chimney, but are natural look to this living space. limited in size and appearance and are subject to high electric costs. Prices range from $1,000 to $2,500.

The last option is a fireplace insert; it’s energy efficient and easy to install. Price can vary depending on style of insert, but style options are limited. For this option, homeowners must have an existing fireplace and chimney. Fireplace inserts start at $700 and can go up to $6,000.

MANTLE MAKEOVER

Another important part of the fireplace design is the mantle. Ralph Canaan, owner of Hearthside Fireplace Shop, says the mantle is important because it adds character to the fireplace, based on colors and shades of wood the homeowner selects. Light wood creates a contemporary look, while dark wood gives a traditional look.

The right mantel can draw even more attention to the fireplace, making it a true focal point. “A mantle is just a reflection of the room setting, whether contemporary, rustic or traditional,” Canaan adds.

RIGHT: Ravenna gas fireplace inserts from Lennox offer the convenience of gas, the look of a real wood fire and a variety of face options to enhance any décor. Approved to fit most zero-clearance factory-built and masonry fireplaces, the Ravenna turns your standard fireplace into a cost-effective heat source.

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cooking at home Old-Fashioned Soft Pumpkin Cookies Makes 3 dozen 2 1/2 1 1 1 1/2 1/2 1 1/2 1/2 1 1 1

Mini Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Makes 3 dozen

COOKIES 2 1 1 1 1/2 1/2 1/2 1 1/4 2 1 1

cups all-purpose flour teaspoon baking powder teaspoon baking soda teaspoon ground cinnamon teaspoon ground ginger teaspoon salt cup (1 stick) butter, softened cups granulated sugar large eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten cup Libby’s 100 % Pure Pumpkin teaspoon vanilla extract

CREAM CHEESE FILLING 4 6 1/2 1 1/2

ounces cream cheese, at room temperature tablespoons butter, softened teaspoon vanilla extract cups powdered sugar

FOR COOKIES: Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or line four baking sheets with parchment paper. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger and salt in medium bowl. Beat butter and sugar in large mixer bowl on medium speed for 2 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add pumpkin and vanilla extract; beat until smooth. Stir in flour mixture until combined. Drop by heaping measuring teaspoons onto prepared baking sheets. (A total of 72 cookies are needed for the recipe.) Bake for 10 to 13 minutes or until springy to the touch. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

FOR CREAM CHEESE FILLING: Beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla extract in small mixer bowl on medium speed until fluffy.

Gradually beat in powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Spread a heaping teaspoon of filling onto flat side of one cookie; top with flat side of second cookie to make a sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies and filling. Store in covered container in refrigerator.

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Sweet Traditions HOLIDAY BAKING WITH PUMPKIN

Family gatherings ... favorite holiday decorations ... the wonderful smells of baked goods — the holidays are full of familiar rituals and special memories.

Traditions are part of what make the season so enjoyable.

For many, this time of year means baking family favorites — how many times do people ask you to make Grandma’s bread pudding or your special cookies? The holidays wouldn’t be the same without them.

Pumpkin treats are perfect for holiday baking. The mellow, sweet flavor blends beautifully with spices, citrus and nuts. Pumpkin is a versatile and delicious addition to any holiday tradition.

For more ways to make baking with pumpkin a tradition in your home, visit VeryBestBaking.com.

house& home | D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com

cups all-purpose flour teaspoon baking soda teaspoon baking powder teaspoon ground cinnamon teaspoon ground nutmeg teaspoon salt cups granulated sugar cup butter (1 stick), softened cup Libby’s 100 % Pure Pumpkin large egg teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease baking sheets. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in medium bowl. Beat sugar and butter in large mixer bowl until well blended. Beat in pumpkin, egg and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges are firm. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Drizzle Glaze over cookies.

GLAZE INGREDIENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS: Combine 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, 1 tablespoon melted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in small bowl until smooth.

Pumpkin-Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Makes 4 dozen 2 1 1/3 2 1 1/2 1 1 1 1 1 1 3/4 3/4

cups all-purpose flour cups quick or old-fashioned oats teaspoons pumpkin pie spice teaspoon baking soda teaspoon salt cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened cup packed brown sugar cup granulated sugar cup Libby’s 100 % Pure Pumpkin large egg teaspoon vanilla extract cup chopped walnuts cup raisins

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease baking sheets.

Combine flour, oats, pie spice, baking soda and salt in medium bowl. Beat butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar in large mixer bowl until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin, egg and vanilla extract; mix well. Add flour mixture; mix well. Stir in nuts and raisins. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until cookies are lightly browned and set in centers. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Article courtesy Family Features. All materials courtesy Libby’s.

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gardening

Crepe Murder

Proper winter pruning for your Crepe Myrtles

It is as predictable as winter: Every year as the lawns no longer need mowing and the leaves from fall are all

By TYSON WOODS

gathered up, a number of landscape companies begin to knock on doors advising unknowing homeowners that it is time to cut back Crepe Myrtles.

This is what a Crepe Myrtle should look like in winter. Crepe Myrtles are beautiful, durable trees with trunks and branches that will develop very unique and attractive silhouettes.

“Crepe Murder” — the topping Crepe Myrtles — causes trees to develop grossly deformed bulges and unnatural branching patterns.

Tyson Woods is an ISA Certified Arborist with Moore Tree Care (214.352.6088; www.mooretreecare.com). Moore Tree Care provides organic, proactive services for the long-term health and vigor of trees and gardens. Moore Tree Care is the designated tree care consultant for the Dallas Arboretum, the designated arborist for the Uptown District, and works closely with the Texas Trees Foundation, along with many other leading commercial and residential projects throughout the Dallas and Fort Worth Metroplex.

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This is a ritual that is unfortunately performed all over the southwest and other sections of the country where Crepe Myrtles grow. But beware — topping Crepe Myrtles is such an appalling horticultural and arboricultural practice that many years ago Southern Living magazine coined the phrase, “crepe murder.” The magazine also proclaimed Crepe Myrtles the most mis-pruned tree in the south.

Knowledgeable, qualified arborists and educators have been trying for years to educate consumers about this terrible practice, but it seems that financial motivation by uninformed contractors to keep their crews busy during this slower season continues to drive this damaging practice. For homeowners it is regrettable that this misguided belief — the practice of topping — is necessary and that it is also good for the trees. Everywhere you look it appears landscape companies are topping Crepe Myrtles so it is logical, but in this case inaccurate, to assume a contractor or “professional” must know what they are doing. Please help stop “Crepe Murder” by enlisting qualified arborists and educated landscape professionals.

Crepe Myrtles are beautiful, durable trees with trunks and branches that will develop very unique and attractive silhouettes. The practice of topping ruins their graceful shape. A topped tree develops a bushy growth of many branches creating a “nest-like” growth. When topping is repeated year after year, the trees will develop grossly deformed bulges and unnatural branching patterns. In addition to the cosmetic disfigurement, the practice makes the trees susceptible to a whole list of pest and disease problems.

While knowledgeable, experienced arborists don’t recommend “crepe murder,” there are good reasons to prune Crepe Myrtles.

1. Remove deadwood and conflicting trunks and branches.

2. Prune low growing branches to clear walks and drives.

3. Prune branches to clear structures or conflict with other trees or shrubs.

4. Remove sucker shoots or minor canes. Aesthetically, it is more pleasing to have fewer, stronger trunks.

Often there needs to be a reduction in the height of a Crepe Myrtle because trees get much larger and taller than we realize when they are planted. Ideally we would be more selective at planting time and choose one of the smaller growing varieties, but if you have a tree that must be reduced, there are techniques that can be used. Drop crotch pruning is a technique that reduces a limb or trunk to a crotch rather than just stubbing it off. Drop crotch reduction pruning can be used to reduce the height of a tree without the unnatural regrowth associated with topping. In some cases it might be appropriate to cut the tree back to ground level. It is surprising how quickly a tree will redevelop from the roots. Sometimes the most effective thing is to transplant or remove a tree if it is too large and replant a more appropriate sized tree.

Rather than continuing the bad practice of “Crepe Murder,” it would be more appropriate if the time and effort spent on the destructive practice of topping Crepe Myrtles was put into positive actions that add to the long-term value and beauty of this amazing tree. A properly cared for Crepe Myrtle, like a fine wine, will only get better as it matures.

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