VOL. 44
JOHNERIC HOME TH E PREMIER RE A L ESTAT E A N D L I F EST Y L E M A GA Z I N E
DC | VA | MD
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HOLIDAY CHEER
Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 1232 31st Street NW, Washington, DC 20007 |202.448.9002
MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE DC | VA | MD
JOHN ERIC | Realtor +1 703 798 0097 john@johnandtrevor.com
TREVOR MOORE | Realtor +1 703.915.0869 trevor@johnandtrevor.com
3001 Washington Blvd., 4th Floor Arlington, VA 22201
FEATURES
Issue 44
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LAPLAND
LIVE OPENLY
DESIGN FEATURE
DAY OF THE DEAD
A journey to Lapland – Santa Claus’ Home.
In this issue, David Brown informs us on the trends of the open-plan design.
Whether you prefer vintage, mid-century or French Country design, much is going on.
In this issue, Charles Tappan creates cocktails to celebrate the Day of the Dead. As family gathers to celebrate life and honor memories of those that have come before, this season celebrate the holidays with this family of Agave Spirit cocktails.
DESTINATIONS
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HOME TRENDS
FEATURE
MIXOLO GY
What Inspires You? It’s the question that matters most to us. Because we’re making something special. The one place in the world that’s yours. Inspiring Homeowners Since 1961.
CaseDesign.com | 301.229.4600
DEPARTMENTS
Issue 44
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14 | DETAILS When there is a chill in the air, cozy up with a book. Then shelve it between one of these great bookends. 15 | JOHN’S FAVORITES This issue, John concentrates on Friendship Hospital for Animals, Santa Barbara Zoo’s Zoofari Ball, Kinship DC, and The Washington Capitals 16 | ARTS Spotlight on B.J. Anderson. 22 | DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT Andrew Law. 23 | CULTURE Visit the National Museum of the American Indian to learn about Native statesmen and their work. Or, explore America by train at the US Botanic Garden during their holiday Season’s Greenings – All Aboard!
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24| DESIGN NEWS The Second Annual LIGHT UP THE SEASON is upon us! Sherry Moeller tells us all about it. 30 | PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT Monte Subasio, A House Built from Love. 44 | 3 TREATS Fun things to do with friends and family. 45 | HOLIDAY FUN 10 Fun Secret Santa Gifts Under $25 48 | DC FUN FACTS National Christmas Tree Edition. 49 | OUT & ABOUT Upcoming events in Washington D.C. 50 | KID’S CORNER Louise Jones shares with us her thoughts on how kids like to have their rooms furnished and decorated. 54 | FOODIE Tastes of fall. from curried carrot and apple soup to pumkin whoopie pies. 56 | STYLIST Fall fashion 2018. 58 | MONEY & FINANCE Are you a collector? In this issue, Marc Schliefer informs on collecting from a financial aspect. 60 | HEALTH & WELLNESS Enjoying your forever body. This inaugural piece by Hannah Jenner will keep you 6
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62 | REAL ESTATE John Eric | Trevor Moore and Associates bring you the best in luxury real estate from all across the metropolitan region. 70 | BUZZ The news that all of Washington is talking about. 71 DIPLOMACY Trick-or-treating on Embassy Row, enjoying a Mongolian experience and pairing Spanish wine and chocolates. Our diplomatic community is throwing some great holiday events. 72 | BLACK BOOK When the weather turns chilly, it is always comforting to relax with a hot cup of tea. Here are the best places in the world to grab a cuppa.
IN EVERY ISSUE 8 | CONTRIBUTORS 9 | LETTER FROM JOHN
DESIGN IS THINKING
MADE VISUAL —Saul Bass
DESIGN | PRINT | PACKAGING | WEB
CONTRIBUTORS CHARLES M. TAPPAN, JR. Before joining Republic National Distributing Company LLC, Charles worked in finance, as a broker on Wall Street and as an equity trader. He decided to make the leap into the Hospitality industry in 2011 while looking for the fountain of youth, and since
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then he has worked as a bartender at some of the best hotels and restaurants in Washington, DC, including Blue Duck Tavern at Park Hyatt and the Jose Andreas Think Food Group. Not only is he a member of the US Bartender’s Guild and DC Craft Guild, but he is highly decorated in the mixology community. MARC SCHLIEFER has been in the financial planning business since 1978, when he joined Equity Planning Institute, Inc. He became President of Equity Planning Institute, Inc. in 1996. With over 33 years of practicing financial planning, Marc has worked mainly on individual financial planning and counsels clients on all aspects of their financial life. SHERRY MOELLER co-founder and principal of MoKi Media, was a previous editor in chief of Capitol File magazine/Niche Media covering politicians, celebrities, fashion, travel, hospitality and lifestyle in Washington, DC and around the country. She now specializes in public relations for interior design, architecture and hospitality clients, among other luxury brands. DAVID BROWN became a pioneer of design in some of DC and Virginia’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods. As an executive with Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton & Valentino, he has been fortunate to travel extensively across the United States and Europe through his work. David’s eclectic style and appreciation for architecture is reflected in his work thanks to his unique cultural perspective gained through his travels. LOUISE JONES is a 12 year-old, fifth-grader who has been writing her whole life. She has many interests, including playing basketball, taking ballet and art classes, hanging out on Facetime with friends and studying foreign languages. She writes on issues related to kids and what she believes parents should know. HANNAH JENNER is the Founder and Head Coach at Achieving Awesome Performance Coaching and host of the “Achieving Awesome” podcast. A former professional sailor, Hannah became the first female captain of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race to circumnavigate the globe in 2007-08. After a 15- year career on the ocean sailing some 280,000 nautical miles, Hannah retired in 2017 to set up her coaching practice. Combing her experience in building successful teams along with a life coaching qualification from Erickson College and a nutrition coaching certification from Precision Nutrition, Achieving Awesome coaches women to unlock their true potential from the inside out. Hannah’s mission in life is to help people become the happiest, healthiest and strongest version of themselves so that they may in turn #betheinspiration. Find out more at www. achievingawesome.co
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FOUNDER | PUBLISHER John Eric MANAGING EDITOR Angela Casey SENIOR EDITOR-AT-LARGE Louis Kwasniewski CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hillary Broadwater PHOTOGRAPHY Emilio Pabon EDITORIAL e-mail | angela@johnandtrevor.com ADVERTISING phone | 703.798.0097 ONLINE Facebook | John Eric/Trevor Moore and Associates Twitter | johneric_trevormoore_&associates Instagram | johneric_trevormoore LinkedIn | johneric YouTube | johneric
WELCOME ONCE AGAIN, FALL IS UPON US! The smell of a burning fire, as friends lounge around the fireplace. The taste of warm apple cider, as families celebrate the holidays. The sights of loved ones all gathering together. It truly is a spectacular time of the year. One of my favorite ways to celebrate the season is to take my dogs on a long hike through some of the amazing terrains our area has available. The autumnal-colored leaves provide a kaleidoscope of beautiful color as my pups enjoy frolicking in the brisk fall weather. In this issue of John Eric Home, we also celebrate the season to its fullest. If you are looking for fun seasonal events, look no further. We have you covered. The styles of the season – whether in terms of fashion or in home design are bursting from our pages. We have produced a jam-packed issue with wonderful features and articles that will keep you up on all the fun and fantastic aspects of fall. So, jump in to our issue – we will certainly not leave you out in the cold! All the best to our readers throughout this holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in 2019!
Best,
John Eric Publisher, Principal and Realtor
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DESTINATIONS TRAVEL & INSPIRATION
LAPLAND Christmas is a particularly magical time for little ones hoping for a visit from Santa - but why make them wait for Christmas Eve when you could go directly to see the big man himself? Lapland is in the north of Finland, on the Arctic Circle - so unsurprisingly, it boasts plenty of snow-covered landscapes. It is a winter wonderland, packed with fun and exotic things to do. Of course, its main attraction is its claim to Santa Claus who resides there with Mrs. Claus, his elves and reindeer. But it’s not all about Father Christmas and his elves. In fact, there are plenty of incredible things to see and do.
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Husky, Reindeer, and Snowmobile Safaris Ever wondered how it feels like to be pulled on a sled by huskies or reindeers while enjoying the fairytale-like Lappish surroundings? Coming here in the winter, you can satisfy your curiosities. Both husky and reindeer excursions are common activities in Lapland, and they are frequently organized throughout the populated areas. Whether opting for a short ride or a longer journey over tens of kilometers accompanied by traditional lunch and hot beverages, a reindeer safari or an exhilarating husky expedition in Lapland will offer you the chance to explore the frozen wilderness and soak up a bit of the peculiar local culture. Levin Lapinkyla Levin Lapinkyla is a traditional farm in Lapland, where guests can immerse themselves in enchanting Finnish culture and traditions. Attractions range from smoke saunas and reindeer rides to wonderful restaurants and cafés serving authentic Lapp delicacies in a charming, traditional atmosphere. Levin Lapinkyla’s highlight, however, is its domestic animal farm teeming with alpacas, reindeers, sheep, goats, bunnies, gerbils, guinea pigs, and all kinds of birds. They also offer accommodation in modern glass-roof huts designed especially for Northern Lights viewing.
Arktikum Beautifully located on the bank of River Ounasjoki, Arktikum is not only one of Rovaniemi’s main cultural spots, but also the 4th best travel attraction in Finland. The attractive museum displays the history and culture of Finnish Lapland and the Arctic region, offering comprehensive information about the locals’ lifestyle, folklore and traditions, from prehistoric times to the present day. Brimming with alpine vegetation, the scenic Arktikum Beach Park nearby makes for a great spot to observe the Aurora Borealis during the winter months. The Ultimate Sauna Experience Often considered a landmark of Finland, the sauna has always been used for bathing and relaxation in this part of the world. But while many countries have embraced and modernized this practice, for Finns, it has remained the same sacred custom deeply rooted in their culture. In Finland, saunas dominate the scene. They are found in local homes and cottages, in hotels and in public places. For the ultimate sauna experience though, one should definitely try the one and only Ylläs’ sauna gondola – an amazing 2-hour experience that allows you to admire the breathtaking snow-capped surroundings from a special gondola equipped with an electric sauna.
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Lainio Snow Village Set amongst magnificent scenery, nearly 200 km above the Arctic Circle, it’s no wonder Lainio Snow Village offers visitors such an authentic Lappish experience. Built entirely of snow and ice, the village features a wonderful ice hotel, a stylish ice bar and restaurant, stunningly lit snow and ice sculptures, as well as all kinds of snow slides for the delight of children. Santa Claus Village and Santa Park We have saved the best for last! No trip to Lapland is complete without a visit to St. Nick – the biggest reason why visitors flock to Lapland. After all, this is Santa’s only official home and a unique experience in its own right. It lies on the Arctic Circle, 8 km north of Rovaniemi, and can be reached through a 30-min bus ride from the city. Highlights include the Santa Claus Post Office, where children are welcomed with tons of Christmas related items, as well as the official Santa Claus’ Office – the place where visitors can actually meet Santa. Another special attraction here is the white painted line that marks the Arctic Circle. Additionally, the village 12
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plays host to a wonderful variety of restaurants, souvenir shops and colorfully lit ice sculptures. Situated within walking distance from Santa Claus Village, Santa Park is an underground amusement park and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rovaniemi. The Christmassy theme park welcomes guests with fascinating attractions and activities, including entertaining sleigh rides, stunning ice galleries and all kinds of family-friendly workshops and elf shows. Additionally, the facility plays host to an ice bar, a special Christmas carousel, and Mrs. Gingerbread’s famous kitchen, where the little ones can decorate cookies in a cozy, convivial atmosphere. (If you’re booking a holiday package, it’s worth checking whether this includes a Meet Santa experience as this could be an easy way of saving money compared to booking your flights, hotel stays and all of the activities separately.) All in all, this winter wonderland may cost you a bit, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Therefore, even if you can’t afford the complete package, a stopover here is highly recommended.
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DETAILS IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
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Bookends have more than a functional purpose – they also lend stylish elements to your home. Here are a few that check the boxes for both…
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1. AGATE BOOKENDS, NATURAL These bookends are polished to the highest sheen to showcase their one-of-a-kind designs. Available at Pottery Barn. 2. COLOR POP CRYSTAL BOOKENDS Made of real crystal, these weighty bookends add a bright beginning and end to your favorite reads. Available at www.westelm.com 3. ARTISTIC® URBAN COLLECTION PUNCHED METAL BOOKENDS Strong, professional grade punched metal combine with decorative urban style slotted pattern. Features protective feet to prevent wear and scratches on the desktop surface. Available at Target. 4. WHITE CORAL BOOKENDS By Zentique, these bookends, made of polyresin, bring a touch of the sea into your home. Available at www.finelinens.com
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JOHN’S FAVORITES MY PERSONAL BEST
1. GREAT COUNTRY FARMS It’s the season for picking pumpkins and enjoying a hot cup of apple cider. My pick for the best place to indulge in both is Great Country Farms, a 400-acre working farm situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Bluemont, Virginia. Make sure not to miss it! 2. DIRT FARM BREWERY After an afternoon of pumpkin and produce picking at Great Country Farms, stop by their pub, Dirt Farm Brewery. Enjoy a small batch, hand crafted beer from fresh ingredients grown at the farm. Their 10bbl brewhouse delivers traditional brewing style ales and many farm fresh seasonals. 3. NEMACOLIN WOODLANDS RESORT If Coolfont doesn’t tickle your fancy, my other pick for a great spa getaway weekend is at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, located in Farmington, Fayette County, Pennsylvania. The spa is not one to be missed! 4. CHARITY: DRESS FOR SUCCESS The mission of Dress for Success is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. They support and encourage, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that every woman who walks through their doors comes to thrive both in work and in life. That is why they are my pick for an amazing charity to support.
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ARTS PROVOKING THE IMAGINATION
B.J. ANDERSON
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B.J. Anderson has been creating unique watercolors, hand-painted etchings and stone lithographs in her Torpedo Factory Art Center studio since 1980. Her work has earned numerous awards in regional and national competitions. Much of it is inspired by the moods of Cape Cod and New England islands where she has been painting in her summer studio for many years. Anderson has a special talent for capturing the unique light and color of that area and the way it plays on the water, sand and simple buildings. She often portrays her feeling for a place in the light of early morning or late afternoon when shadows are strongest and people are elsewhere, giving the viewer an intimate feeling of solitude. She is also well-known for works with very intense, dark skies. In addition to her New England work, Anderson has done a number of images of Old Town Alexandria, many of which have also won awards. Most recently, she has been working on a series of images based on photographs she took during an extensive European trip. Anderson received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in painting, cum laude, from Michigan State University in 1973. Her art has been exhibited at many invitational and one person shows around the United States. The most complete collection of her work is in her studio in the Torpedo Factory, but she also shows in several galleries around the United States. Anderson’s work is included in many private, corporate and government collections, including four U.S. embassies.
Left facing page - “Autumn Marsh” Acrylic on Canvas 20” x 16” image size Top - “October Morn” Acrylic on Canvas 22” x 30” image size
Middle - “Life Goes On” 15” x 21” image size Bottom - “Veranda” 15” x 21” image size
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HOME TRENDS WHERE STYLE & ELEGANCE MEET by David Brown
LIVING
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Open-plan living hasn’t merely risen in popularity in recent years; it seems to be the mainstay of what many people look for in a home. As living spaces continue to move towards more casual floor plans, they provide endless opportunities for you to get creative with decorating and furniture arrangements. After all, open floor plans encourage you to create distinct areas, section off cozy corners, or combine what would normally be different rooms, such as your office and your dining room, into one large multipurpose space. Decades ago, homes were built with the philosophy that every room had a distinct function. You cook in a kitchen, so it was a separate room — often with a door. Dining rooms were formal. Living rooms were for entertaining or relaxing and were set apart from
the kitchen. Today, architecture and interior design still take their cues from economic considerations, but they also are influenced by cultural norms and a desire for convenience. An open-plan space has no or few dividing walls between areas. Generally, this refers to the main living areas of the home — the kitchen, living room and dining room — which create an open, flowing layout with fewer traditional individual rooms in favor of a communal living space (home offices and bedrooms are still preferred as separate, smaller rooms). How has open-plan living become so popular internationally? As design influences become increasingly global, the flow of ideas from one country to another enables concepts to become international trends. Has this influenced the open-plan trend? Living in a
global world and seeing different types of houses on television, specifically Australian and British ones, along with more accessible room models, like those displayed in the Ikea stores, broadens the type of homes that are not normally customary. This access to global trends does create a trickle-down effect in local design. In Germany, they view open spaces as something beautiful, but many homeowners find that there are occasions where several smaller rooms are more practical. Their solution is to create a layout that can be customized with large sliding walls or doors similar to Asian design. Open-concept living is a favorite for many reasons. First, it can make even the smallest space feel bigger and brighter. A small apartment with a tiny, windowless kitchen off the living room can be transformed into a light-filled space
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by replacing the wall with an island or table. Entertaining is a breeze with an open-flow kitchen and living area. You can chat with your guests while you cook. Kitchen islands or tables that are typically used as room demarcations become a focal point for food and drinks. Many prefer an open-concept living as it gives parents the ability to watch their children from their kitchen. While this is a definite benefit, there is also the other side to consider. Hot and dangerous appliances live in a kitchen, so if you have little hands around without the ability to close off the space, it poses a safety risk. Don’t forget those cooking aromas. They will drift through your entire living space and can permeate into your furniture and rugs. Open-concept living makes it more difficult to contain pungent aromas in the kitchen too. As much as we rave about the space, light and flow that a large, open room gives us, there are certainly some challenges. Obviously, some privacy is lost when you tear down walls and join everything together. Having the living room, dining room and kitchen as one extended space means it may be difficult to watch that interesting documentary as dinner is being prepared. Or, it might be challenging to concentrate on homework at the dining table while there is a heated conversation on the sofa. Having less wall space means fewer storage options. There are some innovative alternatives out there, but it’s important to find new ways to incorporate storage when knocking down walls. The fact that you will also be losing precious wall space for your photos and artwork is another good reason to keep a wall intact. Fewer walls also mean fewer electrical outlets; concealing wires in a large, open space can be tricky. Finally, if you hate seeing a mess, openconcept living might not be for you. There is no escaping visual clutter in an open-concept home. If dinner has just been cooked, there is no getting away with leaving the dishes until morning. This may not bother you, but it can be a hassle when visitors arrive unannounced. Staying tidy, or at least having proper storage, is key for open-concept living. There are, however, easy ways to make open concept living very effective. It may sound obvious, but maintaining an aesthetic flow throughout an open-concept living space is paramount. Fundamental design features
such as flooring and recessed lighting should be consistent. Color palettes in different spaces should complement one another. Lastly, add layers of texture and different hues for highlights and accents. Allowing open views from each area to the next is key in open floor plans. Be stylish but strategic with placement; don’t clutter the sight lines with tall bookcases or inappropriately large furniture or accessories. For example, an arch lamp over the sofa that blocks the view of the kitchen would not allow for a free flow of conversation. Also, be sure to keep windows and natural light unobstructed. Another great idea is to carve out separate functional spaces using furniture. For example, place a sofa backed with a console table outside the kitchen to delineate the start of the living room. Further define the living room by placing a rug in the center of that space. Don’t forget that lighting also helps to define different parts of a room. Anchor a dining table with a chandelier or place a large ceiling fan in the center of the living space. The future of the home is about optimizing the space and making it multifunctional, much more now that every square foot is extremely expensive. Being able to use the whole space of the home every single second, instead of just half of it, increases, among other things, the value of the property. Homes need to adapt to changing family needs. It will be fascinating to see how our homes will continue to evolve over the next 20 years. What might an open-plan layout look like in the future? Family life may indeed be quite different. I look forward to seeing how the changing makeup of households, with an increasing number of multigenerational families living together due to house price increases, etc., will impact the current trend for open-plan living. My thought is the ideal solution is to create a space today that has the ability to open or close off spaces when needed. This alternative will definitely provide the flexibility of living spaces that is essential for many modern-day homeowners.
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT THE BEST OF THE BEST
ANDREW LAW A Southern Virginia native, Andrew Law developed an early appreciation for the traditional and classical architecture characterized by Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and Poplar Forest. However, it was during his education in Charleston, South Carolina that he discovered a deeper interest in interior design fueled by the historic city’s architecture, antiques and decorative arts. After receiving a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design at The George Washington University in 2000, he launched his Washington, DC based firm. Since that time, in addition to local projects, commissions have been completed in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, California and Bangkok. “An emphasis on architectural integrity is the cornerstone of our projects – residences which seek to convey a distinct and informed concept. A well edited mix of antiques, art and custom-tailored upholstery combine with artisanal materials and millwork to create refined, yet approachable interiors.” The Washington Post named him as one of the interior design industry’s “Faces of the Future,” and described his work as, “clean, confident, and timeless.” The firm is adept at employing subtle texture and palette to maximize the clean yet traditional lines of the furnishings – resulting in the creation of interiors suited for modern living that reflect clients’ individual sensibilities and lifestyles. Projects have been featured in numerous local, national and online publications.
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CULTURE WHERE ART AND LIFE MEET
NATION TO NATION: TREATIES BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS National Museum of the American Indian Now through 2021 From a young age, most Americans learn about the Founding Fathers, but are told very little about the equally important and influential Native diplomats and leaders of Indian Nations. Treaties lie at the heart of the relationship between Indian Nations and the United States, and Nation to Nation: Treaties Between the United States and American Indian Nations is the story of that relationship, including the history and legacy of U.S.–American Indian diplomacy from the colonial period through the present.
SEASON’S GREENINGS: ALL ABOARD! United States Botanic Garden November 22, 2018 - January 1, 2019 This year, explore America by train as our annual holiday show Season’s Greenings showcases historic railroad stations across the country. In our model train show, trains will chug around, below, through, and above plant-based recreations of iconic depots from across the United States. View thousands of blooms throughout the Conservatory, including a showcase of heirloom and newly developed poinsettia varieties. The collection of D.C. landmarks made from plant materials will return to fill the Garden Court this year, including a new addition to be unveiled this fall. Join us as we celebrate the holidays and America’s natural and cultural treasures.
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DESIGN NEWS CURRENT DESIGN NEWS
THE SECOND ANNUAL LIGHT UP THE SEASON IS DECEMBER 16, 2018 By Sherry Moeller Photo Courtesy of Light Up The Season
The Children’s National fundraiser at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC will include holiday décor available to purchase from top area interior designers, florists and artists, as well as musical and magic performances, a lifestyle presentation and more Light Up The Season is a family-friendly community fundraising event to benefit Children’s National to be held on Sunday, December 16, 2018 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. It is co-hosted by Children’s Health Board and Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC. This event highlights collaborations between Children’s National patients and notable area designers and artists. Together, they will create holiday trees, mantelpieces, wreaths, menorahs and artwork – all available for purchase. Proceeds benefit Children’s National. Activities for all ages include holiday cookie decorating, ornament making, musical performances and visits from Santa and Dr. Bear. Entertainment expert Penny Lyons of Lyonslifestyle will offer an exclusive presentation focused on her “making the ordinary extraordinary” approach to entertaining at home. April McClain-Delaney, regulatory attorney and Washington Director of Common Sense Media, will serve as this year’s Light Up The Season Honorary Chair. McClain-Delaney is a longtime advocate for children. She has served on the Children’s Hospital Foundation Board, was named an outstanding woman alumnae by Georgetown Law Center, is a John Carroll Society Awardee, and is married to Maryland Congressman John Delaney. Event Co-Chairs Shannon Burkhart, Susan Hayes-Long and Muffin Lynham are working closely with media sponsor DC Magazine and design advisors Barry Dixon, Lauren Liess and Frank Babb Randolph. The event will include holiday décor and more by Jeff Akseizer of Akseizer Design Group, Jose Solis Betancourt and Paul Sherrill of Solis Betancourt, Molly Bruno of Molly Bruno Interiors, Susan Burke of Susan Burke Style, Iantha Carley of Iantha Carley Interiors, Suzie Clayton of Dalton Brody, Wendy Danziger of Danziger Design, Miriam Dillon and Hannah Bock of Barnes Vanze, Laura Dowling, Eve Faye of Farrow & Ball, Yvette Freeman of District Designers, Rachel and Charles Gang of Helen Olivia Flowers, Ashley Greer of Atelier Ashley Flowers, Sarah Hayes of Sarah Hayes Design, Liz Levin and Tess Finnegan of Liz Levin Interiors, Lauren and David Liess of Lauren Liess, Lanie Mann of Lanie Mann Art, Anna Mathews of Anna Mathews Interiors, Marika Meyer of Marika 24
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Meyer Interiors & Textiles, Claire Niermann and Eleanor Niermann of Niermann Weeks, Maggie O’Neill of Maggie O’Neill Fine Art, Sascha Roth of Urban Country, and Roger Whyte of RJ Whyte Events. Entertainment includes Metropolitan School of the Arts (Dance), The Georgetown Saxatones Acapella Group, Rhythmaya Dance (Bollywood Fusion), and Reggie Rice Comedy Illusionist. Popup shops include Dalton Brody, Julia Farr Boutique, Suzanne Designs, Whyte House Monograms, Christi Perez Designs, Sonya Flanagan, Mary Making Design, and Georgetown Paperie. The décor coordinator is Quintece Hill-Mattauszek. Tickets for the event are $50 per child 16 and under, $85 per adult for the family event and $250 per family of four (two adults and two children 16 and under). Lyonslifestyle Presentation with light fare from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. is $85. Sponsorships range from $500 to $20,000. For more information, including how to purchase tickets and how to be a sponsor, go to childrensnational.org/lightuptheseason or email lightuptheseasondc@gmail.com. On social media at: facebook.com/ChildrensHealthBoard, twitter.com/childhealthbd, instagram.com/childhealthbd, and Instagram.com/lightuptheseason, #LightUpTheSeasonDC.
Favorite A FEW OF OUR
THINGS … By Sherry Moeller
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Form, function and flow are top of mind when designing kitchens, says Nadia Subaran, co-owner and co-founder of Silver Spring, Maryland-based Aidan Design, www.aidandesign.com. With more than 20 years in the custom kitchen design industry, Subaran has seen trends come and go, but her favorite kitchens are ones with classic lines and timeless detailing. Offering full project design, Subaran also offers flat-fee design services that allow homeowners to select finishes that fit their budgets and schedules. “It’s all about creating thoughtful living spaces that reflect each homeowner’s lifestyle,” Subaran adds. Subaran, plus several other local designers from Case Architects & Remodelers, Home on Cameron and Winn Design + Build, provide insight into their favorite kitchen designs to date and why, as well as offer holiday gift ideas and entertaining tips. LIGHT BLUE AND VINTAGE, TOO
The Maryland owners of this Aidan Design kitchen wanted to replicate the serene feeling of their coastal summer home when they opted for custom light blue Wood-Mode cabinets years ago, long before blues were a popular color choice for cabinets. Though a lighter version of today’s darker blues, this kitchen exudes warmth and style. “While we love the function and efficiency of galley kitchens, they often feel disconnected to adjacent rooms. Our challenge was to ensure that the new kitchen integrated
Aidan Design Kitchen by Nadia Subaran, Photo by Robert Radifera
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well with surrounding spaces,” says Subaran. “To that end, the new design opened to much wider and taller windows on one wall and incorporated wall sconces between the windows to give a more intimate and inviting feel to the kitchen.” The Azul Bahia countertops, custom hood, and handmade tiles all work together to support this beloved kitchen. Vintage cutting boards make great kitchen accessories as well as gifts, the designer says. Incorporating these owners’ collection of bright yellow and blue Italian stoneware is a way to bring back elements they loved in their former kitchen spaces.
MID-CENTURY STYLE
The owners of this mid-century modern Virginia home worked with Elena Eskandari, designer-interiors specialist at Case Architects & Remodelers, www.casedesign.com, to create a kitchen that complements the style of the home by starting with teak-inspired wood tones. “I love the combination of two cabinet colors and the texture of the cabinets,” Eskandari says. “They blend nicely and add interest.” The quartz countertops “marry” the two cabinet choices and contain colors from both cabinet finishes. “The turquoise backsplash steals the show,” the designer adds, and is another element that represents the mid-century style. “I love the new layout with a large island in the middle,” Eskandari says. “By introducing a large island, we managed to preserve the wall of windows without losing storage,” which includes space for cooking and dining as well as spice pull-outs and drawers. The ceiling’s exposed beams are painted in a contrasting color, while the track lights with pendants offer a clever alternative to recessed lighting. Eskandari favors a kitchen tray or a set of trays as both a kitchen accessory and a special housewarming gift. “Trays are a great way to keep countertop items, such as olive oil bottles and salt and pepper shakers, contained in one spot,” she says. And you just have to move one item to clean the counters. When entertaining, the designer uses cake stands for finger foods, small sandwiches, chips and dips, as well as desserts. “Cake stands help save tabletop space, as they ‘lift’ the food up, allowing more space for other dishes,” she adds.
COUNTRY FRENCH ACCENTS
When Todd Martz, owner of Home on Cameron, www. homeoncameron.com, met with the longtime homeowners of this late 1800s Washington, DC rowhouse, their requests for the kitchen remodel included creating a space that was not only fresh and upto-date, but that also incorporated the adjacent dining room with fireplace. “I wanted the space to have a cozy feel and emphasize the room’s exposed brick fireplace,” Martz says. The kitchen had to remain large enough for cooking while also accommodating the dining room table and seating. To emphasize the wood tones in the space, Martz designed a custom island that looks like a piece of fine furniture, but functions as extra counter prep space and appliance storage. Taking the cabinets all the way up to the tall ceiling provided added storage. A library ladder in the same wood finish as the island provides access to the upper cabinetry while casting a vintage vibe. “I also like the contract of the exposed brick of the fireplace with the stained glass backsplash, which mimics the pattern in the front windows,” Martz says. 28
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Top Left: Case Architects & Remodelers Kitchen by Elena Eskandari, Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg Bottom Left: Home on Cameron Kitchen by Todd Martz, Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg Top Right: Case Architects & Remodelers Kitchen by Carolyn Elleman, Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg Bottom Right: Winn Design + Build Kitchen by Michael Winn, Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg
When entertaining, Martz likes to incorporate unique serving pieces that guests may not experience elsewhere. Plus planning ahead makes guests feel special, Martz adds. The designer also uses patterned paper napkins and hand towels for color and to set a party atmosphere. The napkins – paper or cloth - make great hostess gifts, too. “I might also add a Rigaud candle in the adjacent powder room,” says Martz, and use a scent based on the season. Both napkins and candles are available at his Home on Cameron shop in Old Town Alexandria. Martz also offers full-service interior design consultations.
SMALL BUT MIGHTY
The kitchen’s work triangle is essential to a wellplanned space, says Carolyn Elleman, designer-interiors specialist at Case Architects & Remodelers, www. casedesign.com. One of her favorite kitchens, located in Washington, DC, is also one of the smallest she has designed. “The efficient work triangle between refrigerator, sink and range coupled with the gold finishes that stand out against the bright white cabinets and countertops make this a favorite kitchen,” the designer says. During the holidays when surrounded by great company and amazing smells, Elleman suggests having plenty of cutting boards on hand. “It’s probably one of the simplest and most underrated items in the kitchen,” she says. It’s ideal for holiday cookie prep as well as serving, and makes a great gift even if you don’t cook. Kitchens become a focal spot for entertaining, especially during gatherings, when counters are overflowing with food and drinks. Elleman suggests offering favorite no-bake dishes to reduce stress while also featuring tried-and-true treats.
SEAMLESS TRANSITIONAL
Professional grade appliances as well as better prep and storage spaces were on the top of the must-have list for these Virginia homeowners when they enlisted Michael Winn, owner of Winn Design + Build in Falls Church, Virginia, www.winndesign.com to remodel their kitchen. When incorporating the chef’s cooktop, Winn also needed to enhance the ventilation, requiring a more robust range hood. By combining good flow with high-end features, including a furniture-style island finish, this kitchen is as close as Winn has gotten to designing and building a true transitional space. In addition, Winn expanded the kitchen by two feet out the back to add the required island seating. A decorative mosaic backsplash behind the range as well as white paneled appliance fronts provide a seamless look to this streamlined space.
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A Home Built from Love Monte Subasio “Ben was an extraordinary person and our love was deep and enduring. We filled our home with love and friends.”
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ach masterpiece has been created by an artist applying one single brushstroke to a canvas. From there, stroke upon stroke is applied with deep passion until the artist’s vision is realized. If Monte Subasio was a canvas, it would hang in the Louvre. The owners who built this masterpiece spent incredible amounts of time, thoughtfulness and creativity in constructing their vision. Every facet of this home and its gardens has been constructed to complement and remain true to its period feel, the vision of its creators, Ben and Susan Bingham. Nothing has been left to chance, from the spindles in the entry hall’s magnificent staircase to the fashion of the cut marble in its kitchen to the sizes and shapes of its windows; from the knot garden which greets visitors upon arrival to the secret garden that transports those to England who linger in it; this property is not only a masterpiece, it is also masterclass.
This masterclass estate was inspired by love; the owners love for each other; their wish to design a comfortable and livable home for themselves with practical and aesthetic living spaces and their love for their family and friends. It was their creation to share with those who were close as a space to create new memories. With their love of Georgian architecture and attributes, Ben, an engineer and Susan, with a background in fine arts, spent countless hours in research in both books and in manor homes and gardens spread throughout England. “We loved historic homes, both American and English,” says Susan Bingham, owner of Monte Subasio. “So, when Ben said this home needed to be different … I said to Ben ‘what if we did a 1930 style Georgian revival home as it combines what we love in historic homes both American and English?’ Yes, yes, yes, he said, and we now had a direction to go!” They named their home Monte Subasio, after the majestic mountain found in Umbria, Italy. This mountain, found in the Apennines, provides an incredible backdrop for the surrounding area. The frame of the Blue Ridge mountains combined with the feel of the property were reminiscent of the famed Italian mount. The feel of both Monte Subasios is the same – a place of beauty and tranquility and peace. Taking a tour of the main house of this estate is breathtaking. There are so many unique and amazing rooms to behold. These rooms and the incredible amount of detail paid throughout this Georgian home is evident as soon as one steps through the front door… This door, a six-panel, custom made period door, is complete with side lighting and arched window. It is an exact replica of the front door of the Morrison House in Alexandria, Virginia. The entry hall is spacious
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and highlights the beautiful chandelier hanging from above. Glistening crown grade, antique Heart Pine hardwoods and an amazing custom-made antique Heart Pine staircase with cherry wood hand railings provide a period feel. Each plank and spindle were carefully chosen by the owners in their quest for perfection. The heart of the home is its kitchen. This is a tried and true statement. However, at Monte Subasio, this space is literally the home’s heart and the space from which each other room was drawn. It was the first to be designed. The owners used the kitchen as the central hub for planning the rest of the house. Due to this, the rooms of the home have an unusual ceiling height, standing at 9’2”. This was done to accommodate the design of the kitchen.
“We started with the kitchen,” says Susan Bingham, “deciding it would be closest to the garage.” And, this kitchen is, simply put, amazing. It is a home chef’s absolute delight and equipped with everything that provides convenience and modernity. Extra care in design has been taken throughout. The porcelain floor tile was matched to the Soapstone countertops of its large center island. Each back splash is a different height and designed singularly with a beautiful soft curve. The owners penciled them on paper over a weekend after seeing the original cookie-cutter pieces originally meant for the space. But, for all the bells and whistles in this room, it is an incredibly cozy space. It is meant to be cooked in and enjoyed.
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Adjacent to the kitchen is a large sitting area which hosts a custom gas fireplace with antique Heart Pine and Soapstone surrounds. Like in the kitchen, its porcelain tiles were chosen to match the Soapstone which creates a seamless blend with its environs. Antique custom Heart Pine casing, baseboard and crown moldings (including custom Heart Pine window interiors) reinforce this home’s authentic feel. “We wanted a sitting room as part of the open kitchen design,” says Susan Bingham, “so the fireplace was designed using the antique heart pine fireplace panels and mantel that Ben absolutely loved. The space had an area for breakfast table and was a cozy place for Ben and our dogs to sit as I prepared dinner. One of the kitchen cabinets hides a TV so Ben could watch the news.” Speaking of the moldings … the Binghams knew that they needed the thickness to balance the design but did not want it to be unaesthetic. After scouring historic homes in Colonial Williamsburg, Ben Bingham found the perfect match. The mouldings are exact replicas of those in the Wythe House in Williamsburg, Virginia. They were perfect for the space. Also, to note in this home is an engineering feat. As this home is Georgian-styled and its designers remained pure to the period feel, when outfitting the house with period windows, they hit a snag. Georgian windows are square and, in the design for this house, the top floor called for six over six while the bottom floor was meant to have six over nine. How to make sure they were all balanced and square and stable at the same time? After months of designing and planning, the Binghams eventually created the perfect square windows with the perfect fit and perfect stability. As one would expect, the main rooms of this home are sophisticated and elegant. The formal dining room is complete with a wood burning
fireplace, custom-made mantle and marble hearth and surround. The room is decorated with antique period sconces and equipped with ceiling speakers with volume control. The owners of the home always ate in this room. Whether it was to share an intimate meal with each other or to host a dinner party for 30 people, the dining room was exactly that – the room for dining. The owners designed the house to make sure that the spaces throughout were comfortable for two people or two hundred. “These spaces were designed with our furniture and art work in mind,” remarks Susan Bingham, “and, our family and friends.” The living room is traditional in feel and of the period. It also boasts a wood burning fireplace, complete with mantle and surround and is a quiet space to sit and relax to enjoy the amazing views of the property. In both the dining room and living room, the tassels and trims of the window treatments are imported silks from England, which add a most authentic touch. A great room is the sumptuous library. Antique Heart Pine pocket door, a gorgeous brass chandelier, expansive built-in bookshelves and ceiling speakers with volume control make this room quite serious, yet, relaxing too. It is a place to work, to read or to just take a minute to relax. French doors lead to the outside terrace, which provides additional space to enjoy the room and its features. “In the library,” says Susan Bingham, “we had a quote from Thomas Jefferson hand painted on the wall above the book shelves that describes how we felt about the many things we collected over the years, ‘That which we elect to surround ourselves with become the museum of our soul and the archive of our experiences’”. Another great feature – there are so many to mention – is the period
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laundry room. This isn’t an ordinary place to wash clothing. Two chandeliers and recessed ceiling fixtures light the space. Custom made draperies shield its windows. Custom-made Omega and Wood Mode cherrywood cabinets provide tons of storage while a pleasing aesthetic is created from its Rosewood granite countertops and backsplash. Functionality? Two separate Kohler sinks – one under mount and one deep laundry sink – provide great convenience. Likewise, does a large utility closet. Susan Bingham explains this gem. “The laundry room was designed for all of the house activities ... a deep sink for flowers cut from the yard to be put in arrangements throughout the house. Another sink for polishing silverware and trays used in entertaining. The laundry room is where the dogs ate and drank. The laundry room wallpaper reflects our beloved labs one black, one yellow.”
While the vast majority of this home has been designed in a pure Georgian period, one room does stand out as purely Americana – created through Georgian style, of course. This room is an amazing space for both children and adults alike, an ice cream parlor! Ben Bingham was an ice cream connoisseur. As such, a full-scale ice cream parlor was built into the home. The traditional red stools, long counter and plenty of the sweet stock are the main occupiers of the space. There are rules in the parlor – each child (and adult) is told that he or she must sit on the stools in good behavior. This room is a draw for children, not only of the family, but of the neighborhood. “The club room has a beautiful stone fireplace,” says Susan Bingham, “a bar designed by Ben and space for 40-50 people. Sometimes, it was just Ben and I with the grandchildren watching a movie. My husband loved martinis and ice cream and for years I had collected antique ice cream
“The conservatory was designed for our many cats to lounge and sleep the day away and for us to have a morning cup of coffee or afternoon tea,” A standout of this home is the conservatory that flanks its back. It is as close to perfection as one can find. Sweeping views of the property’s gardens, pond, terraces and distant mountainscape are laid out at the spectator’s feet. Its origins lay in a little, front screened-in porch from the original house. It was a space for the couple’s cats to access the outside. It evolved into this gorgeous space. “The conservatory was designed for our many cats to lounge and sleep the day away and for us to have a morning cup of coffee or afternoon tea,” says Susan Bingham. A statue of Puss N Boots, in the garden surrounded by red roses, is in place as a reminder of the original feline friend.
dishes, so it was only natural that we would have an ice cream parlor.” One of the unique attributes of this estate is also located on the main level of this home. A lovely breezeway leads to an indoor, saltwater lap pool. Six chandeliers light the pool area. A no-slip brick floor has been carefully crafted around the pool itself allowing for safety. The lap pool has an automatic sand filter and electronic water purification system and is heated by gas while an HVAC and full humidification control allow for year-round use and comfort. This allows its user to take full advantage of the five stationary and two operating double glass French doors which boast amazing views of the gardens and ponds of the property 365 days of
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the year. To provide convenience, the area also features a full bathroom. It is not only functional, but spacious. A ceiling light and wall sconces light the area while many cabinets provide storage space. White Carrera marble forms a lovely countertop and backsplash while a Kohler under-mount provides convenience. The owners of the home swam every day, using the pool for exercise, as they enjoyed the breathtaking views afforded from the space. So, which room in this house is Susan Bingham’s favorite? “I can’t pick a favorite room as all the rooms are my favorite,” she says. “Ben and I loved and used every room in the house. We designed the rooms to be comfortable for just Ben and I or to have a small group for dinner or one our ‘famous’ parties. Our friends have favorite rooms. One friend loves to sit in the living room and she calls that room the jewel box. Our dear friend Father Ed loves to sit and read in the library. Lunch or tea with my girlfriends at the table in the family room where we can look out at the gardens and pond while we eat and chat. And, of course, the ice cream parlor which seems to be everyone’s favorite whether young or old. Every room in the house was designed to be enjoyed and used ... no offlimits rooms here!” Although the owner could not choose a favorite room in the estate, Susan Bingham does have a favorite time of the year spent in the home. “My favorite memories in this house are at Christmas,” says Susan Bingham. “I decorate the house before Thanksgiving with a tree in every room. The entry hall has a very large tree filled with ornaments that friends have given us ... the friendship tree. There is a tree in the family room with decorations grandchildren have made and other special
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ornaments. A tree in the kitchen and another on the lower level in the club room. Smaller trees in every other room and garlands on mantels with special decorations. Santas everywhere and a crèche in the kitchen on the counter and a large crèche in the chapel.
“My favorite memories in this house are at Christmas,” “The kitchen is used almost daily making cookies, sweet treats, snacks and special meals for family and friends. We always had a Christmas party for 150 guests and friends always said this was the highlight of the season for them. For Ben and I, this was what this house was about, sharing a special holiday with family and friends. Our lives and this house were filled with love every day of the year, but more so at Christmas.” Normally, it is the house on a property that is most significant. In the case of this estate, its outdoors is as much of an attractive feature. Spread over 25-acres, the owners of this home have meticulously created a wonderland of gardens. “Ben and I designed the gardens and outside spaces based on gardens we had seen over the years,” says Susan, “and how we wanted to use the different garden rooms. Ben and I enjoyed designing and planting all the trees, hedges, formal perennial gardens and the secret topiary garden. We loved watching our plans come to life and grow to maturity.” Lush space after lush space rolls as far as the eye can see. A secret garden
is an absolute delight as is the conservatory garden which is a wonderful feature of the property. The perennial gardens in the back are very English, while the topiaries in the secret garden are more American in feel. The owners planted everything – the willow oaks that line the driveway, the evergreen trees, the pines and hollys that they thoughtfully included for privacy as well as the hedge work that was planned to divide the property. The further one moves away from the main house, the more the gardens become informal. Mountains provide an amazing backdrop to a large tranquil pond. “The house was designed so every room has a view,” says Susan. “From inside, you can see the mountains in the front, the pond in the back. Wildlife can be seen everywhere…. deer, wild turkeys, fox, rabbits, hawks, eagles and so many different birds – migrating birds which includes geese, ducks and swans and so many other animals.” Walking paths and riding trails are found throughout the estate. It is a place that promotes nature and tranquility without being far from the nation’s capital. It is a home that lives in its outside space. “Spring, summer and fall we had guests and would always use the beauty of the property to sit outside have a glass of wine, walk around and look at the gardens. July Fourth we always had a big picnic. We would grill outside, play croquet, and, in the evening, my son put on an awesome fireworks display. Our grandchildren enjoyed walks in the woods, fishing in the pond, driving go carts around the property, practicing golf in the front yard and they loved the hay rides we did for the Halloween party. As with the inside of the house we planned, all the property was to be used and enjoyed by all who visited. But for Ben, the property was a peaceful place to live. He absolutely loved living here!”
While Monte Subasio is a large home, it is warm and cozy. Every room has a purpose and no space has been wasted. The owners collected wine, hence a wine cellar of the traditional sort. They loved English gardens, hence the myriad blooms. The dimensions of the home were based not only on type of room, but what furniture would occupy which space. It was a gigantic puzzle in putting it all together. The end result is this masterpiece that will last throughout the ages. Monte Subasio is an amazing space to spend time in for even a small part of the day. “Ben was an extraordinary person and our love was deep and enduring. We filled our home with love and friends. And family felt it when they were here. My friends, my children and grandchildren are all sad that their time coming here is drawing to an end. They know that without Ben here, it’s not the same for me ... it’s too big for one person and feels empty without Ben. This was a special place for us and all who came here I hope it will be the same for the next owners.” – Susan Bingham (Note: Susan Bingham’s husband and co-creator of Monte Subasio passed away in December of 2014.)
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The Why of Monte Subasio JOHN ERIC HOME MAGAZINE SPOKE WITH SUSAN BINGHAM, ONE OF THE CO-CREATORS OF MONTE SUBASIO, FOR AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT WHY MONTE SUBASIO CAME TO BE… Ben and I were high school sweethearts. We married, went to college and when Ben graduated from University of Texas with an engineering degree, we had a son and a daughter on the way! Ben was the smartest, most generous, thoughtful, humble person I’ve ever known. He loved God, country and above all his family. Ben wanted to provide the very best for his family and everything he did was toward that end. We had a family of four when he started his first job and very little income. We were married for eleven years before we bought our first little house. It was a three-bedroom one bath house in need of a complete overhaul. We worked on that house made it adorable and our children grew up there. When our daughter was a junior in high school we moved to a four bedroom two and a half bath house again in need of a major overhaul. And, we made that house come alive with all the renovations we did. While living in that house Ben had an opportunity with a group of colleagues to buy and turn around a company in the defense industry that was floundering. He worked tirelessly 364 days a year and 20 hours a day for over four years and the group turned the company around and it was sold. Now, finally Ben had the financial means to build a family home for our children and friends that we considered family. We decided to move to Virginia from Maryland and spent a year looking for the right property. Ben had an office at the Watergate, so we needed to be close to a road that would make an easy commute for him and he wanted land 80 acres if possible. Ben was at work, I was out with our agent and she showed me this property. I knew this was what Ben was looking for. That evening we went out to Bluemont and looked at this property with the mountains and the pond.
“This is it,“ Ben said. We went to the Greenbrier for a weekend and we talked about what we wanted in a home for family and friends. Ben drew the house on a napkin. We designed the first house and built it with Ben being the general contractor, so we could build a home that would last for a hundred years or more. Ben wanted a barn built like a house, so we waited two years for John Gannaway to build the barn and a garage for tractors and other equipment for the property. The very day the barn was completed the house was struck by lightning... horrible. The fire department had miscategorized the 911 calls and they didn’t get here for over an hour. The fire burned for four hours, but Ben had built such a good structure that only the roof burned. But the smoke and four hours of water sprayed on the house made it a total loss. Ben was devastated. It took months to process what had happened, but we had many bumps in the road on our journey together in life. So, we started to plan a new home. After the fire, before the house was demolished, we spent two months removing furniture and anything that was special in the building that we thought we could put into a new home. We used the tractor garage for furniture and had three pods full of cabinets, the front door, doors spindles and the like to use in the new house. Our things had been collected over many years on trips, gifts to each other and a few family things that had been handed down so walking through our house everyday remind us of so many special moments in our life. After the fire I was determined to have as many things restored as possible. We had samplers we bought on trips to England being restored by the same people who restore for the Smithsonian, dolls Ben had given me over the years being restored,
antique bears restored by a woman who was the best in the world! Then the difficult process of rebuilding began. We decided to hire an architectural firm to do the redesign. We needed to use the existing foundation. They came with plan after plan – too large, no back stairs, too ordinary. Finally, Ben said “I will give you one more shot at this”. Ben said he would draw plans and we would meet in a month. The architect presented his plan again with no back stairs, and then Ben showed our plans. The architect rolled up his plans and said “you should build it.” The month in planning we spent measuring spaces and how we wanted to use them, figuring out how furniture that survived would fit into the spaces. It was a giant puzzle but because Ben and I were a team and trusted each other’s skills we accomplished building another beautiful home for family and friends. While rebuilding our home Ben had a heart attack and emergency bypass surgery. The same year I was diagnosed with breast cancer, multiple surgeries and chemotherapy. More bumps in the road! With so much help from family and friends, we managed to build and decorate a home that Ben loved even more then the first. All that being said, what this home means to me is Ben’s and my life together, working hard to accomplish our goals, struggles we survived, wanting to share all that we had accomplished with our children and dear friends who had helped us through so much with the loss of our home, and above all our love for each other. Our story is the American dream work hard using your God given talents dream big and anything is possible!
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A DAY SPA TREATMENT AT THE ARGENTTA SPA AT THE WATERGATE HOTEL This spa is a real stunner. Aside from being gorgeous, you and yours will discover all the amenities you expect from a top-notch spa – steam rooms, whirlpool, elegant relaxation lounge. But it’s the quality of services that stand out. Try the signature jade hot stone massage, which combines Swedish massage techniques with heated jade stones, which have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for their healing and balancing properties. Afterwards, enjoy a glass of wine in the Watergate’s lounge. ENJOY A WINTER WONDERLAND Spend an afternoon enjoying drinks alfresco— even if it is snowing! At Kimpton’s Poste Moderne Brasserie, you are invited to embrace fresh air year-round in its Winter Lounge. Fire pits and s’more making kits, piping hot cocktails and heaters to make sure you and yours are warm, it is a special holiday treat to enjoy. HAVE DRINKS WITH A FAMOUS AUTHOR The Hay-Adams Author Series recreates a grand literary tradition established by John Hay and Henry Adams in the late 1800s. At the time, their homes were the center of Washington’s intellectual and social gatherings, featuring literary giants such as Mark Twain, Edith Wharton and Henry James. The HayAdams Author Series was launched to renew the spirit of literary discourse on the very land where the historic hotel stands today. The tradition lives on with distinguished authors of our time in celebrating their works and sharing fine food, drink, and lively conversation in a magnificent setting. Grab a friend or family member and share in a provocative and fun evening. Afterwards, have a holiday drink in the lounge.
HOLIDAY TREATS! The holidays are, of course, a time to get together with friends and family to celebrate. They are also the time to take a moment and enjoy the time you have with friends and family. Here are our top 3 suggestions for enjoying a few hours with those you love…
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Fun Secret Santa Gifts Under $25
THE GOOD NEIGHBOR: THE LIFE AND WORK OF FRED ROGERS Because, you’ll be hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t love Mister Rogers. WINE INFUSED COFFEE Don’t let your co-worker be torn between a glass of wine or a cup of coffee after a great meal – give them both. DAMMIT DOLL Your stressed-out co-worker will appreciate taking out their frustration on this fun desk doll. MAGNETIC DECISION MAKER A new twist on the classic Magic 8 Ball, this magnetic decision maker is an ideal “desk toy” for those co-workers who never seem to grow up. TRICERA TACO HOLDER The Tuesday Taco crowd will love this little holder. So might you! EMOJI SLIPPERS If your co-worker is not a morning person, these slippers will certainly lighten his or her mood. CARDS AGAINST HUMANITY Heard the buzz about this delightfully despicable card game? 550 cards to choose from, and any number of outrageous, inappropriate, and awkward questions and answers abound. AVOSEEDO AVOCADO GROWER This fun planter is made for the avocado lover and brings some green into the house. MINI ZEN GARDEN Everyone needs a little peace. A little Zen. The box and rake, complete with sand and smoothed stones, fits on any office desk, and can provide a Zen-like relaxation break as often as needed! PRESS AND MEASURE HERB INFUSER Draw the name of a real foodie? They will love this press and measure herb infuser.
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Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 6849 Old Dominion Drive, Suite 360, McLean, VA 22101 | 703.310.6111
The Future of Real Guiding Estate Arrives in you home. Northern Virginia. With the solutions-driven mindset of a startup and the sophistication of a luxury brand, Compass is redefining the future of real estate. Through its proprietary platform, Compass is changing the way agents and clients navigate the process of finding or selling a home, offering a high-tech, high-touch solution to your real estate needs.
Learn more at compass.com
DC FUN FACTS TIDBITS OF INTERESTING DC FACTS
75,000 LED lights will surround the National Christmas Tree and weigh about 1,000 pounds, which is the weight of a grand piano. If you spread the lights out, they’d be the length of three Washington Monuments. It takes 15 workers to install the lights on the tree. At night, the tree will shine with about 6,750 watts of energy—thanks to the LED bulbs. That amount of energy is similar to the energy when using a clothes dryer at home. Surrounding the National Tree will be 56 smaller trees -- decorated with one-of-a-kind ornaments— each representing every U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia. The family-owned company, Hargrove Inc., has been responsible for lighting the tree for the past 63 years. If there were any bulbs that went out during the season—before the installation of LED lights—a Hargrove representative would climb the tree to fix it wearing a Santa suit. GE Lighting has designed the National Christmas Tree for the past 55 years.
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OUT AND ABOUT DC’S UPCOMING PARTIES, CONCERTS, CELEBRATIONS AND EVENTS
AIR & SCARE Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center October 20th 12:00 pm - 5:30 pm Explore the spooky side of air and space at Air & Scare, the Air and Space museum’s annual Halloween event at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. Participate in creepy crafts, spooky science experiments and other Halloween-themed activities. Arrive in costume to get into the Halloween spirit and enjoy safe indoor trick-or-treating. Air & Scare is a very popular event. Please be aware of highvolume attendance and allow for additional time for parking and security screening. Note: For safety purposes, full-face masks are prohibited on visitors over 16 years of age.
MOUNT VERNON BY CANDLELIGHT Mount Vernon November 23rd, 24th, & 30th and December 1st, 7th, 8th, 16th Tour times will vary each day.
TWELFTH ANNUAL PARADE OF TRABANTS Spy Museum November 3rd 10:00 am - 4:00 pm It’s been more than 25 years since the Berlin Wall fell, but one Cold War icon is still chugging away—the Trabant. Despite their questionable performance and smoky two-stroke engines, these little cars are now affectionately regarded as a symbol of East Germany and the fall of Communism. On November 3rd, some of the finest examples in the US will chug their way to the International Spy Museum to celebrate their Twelfth Annual Parade of Trabants. Drop in to view the vintage cars, which will be parked in front of the Museum on F Street, NW, and enter a raffle to win a ride in a Trabant. While the cars are on display, experts will be on hand to answer questions about Trabants, the Cold War and Communism, while the Alte Kameraden German Band provides festive music.
Join Mount Vernon’s residents and visitors for a festive evening at Mount Vernon. Inside the Mansion, Martha Washington and other Mount Vernon residents will welcome you into their home and share stories of past Christmases. After the tour concludes, continue the experience by visiting the Greenhouse and participating in 18th-century dancing, just as the Washingtons might have done during the holidays. Enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider, listening to fireside caroling, and paying a visit to Aladdin the Christmas camel. The evening will conclude with live music in the Education Center Lobby and an opportunity to visit the Education Center exhibits and The Shops.
13TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY MARKET 8th and F Streets, NW WDC November 24th - December 23rd 12 – 8 p.m. The festive outdoor market will be open for 30 consecutive days, so you can plan to do some holiday shopping at this village in the heart of downtown D.C. More than 150 artisan, crafters and boutique businesses will offer diverse gift items for holiday giving. While shopping, you will enjoy seasonal entertainment at the market in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum & National Portrait Gallery.
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KID’S CORNER FROM THE MOUTH OF BABES
ROOM REDO by Louise Jones When it comes to designing a room, everyone has their own style. Whether it is modern, traditional, contemporary, industrial, eclectic, cottage, etc., we all add our own special touch to make the space feel more comfortable to us. That’s important. The room feels more like home. Right? Well, we all need that comfy and special place, which could be a room or simply a corner, to get away and to spend some time alone—especially kids. When kids have their own room or space in the house, it should feel like home to them. If someone else, for example a parent, designs their room, it doesn’t have that special touch. Therefore, it does not feel like their own unique place. That is why I think kids should be able to design their own bedroom. When you start to create a room you have to think about what its purpose will be. In a kid’s bedroom, you might have certain pieces of furniture. Kids want pieces that are fun and serve their purpose. For example, a desk is perfect for their bedroom. Desks are great because as they get older, kids need space to do their homework. Plus, they look good and make a room look complete. Chairs or some type of seating arrangement are another good idea. Your kids need a chair or bean bag in their room to sit on instead of sitting on a bed when they are reading, playing on an electronic or, just hanging out. I would get a comfortable chair or instead a bean bag because depending on what size you get, they can take up little space. If your kids don’t have a closet, or they are using it for things other than clothes, then they would have to get a dresser. Usually dressers take up a lot of space and can be kind of annoying for kids but dressers that are taller than wider are better. Children prefer dressers that don’t look old and don’t take up a lot of space. Finally, there is the pattern of the bed linens. I’m not saying that kids should be able to choose their own bed, but at least they can pick the bed linens. A lot of times adults choose boring colors and patterns for their bed. Kids would rather have a colorful or a fun patterned bed. You can even let your kids pick their own bed linens so that the room is more like them. After you think about furniture, you have to think about decorations. Rooms can get dull without any decorations. Decorations in a kid’s bedroom are very different than in an adult’s bedroom. A good decoration for a kid’s bedroom is a plant. Plants are perfect because they look good anywhere and it can be fun for children. It’s fun because they can water it and take care of it themselves. Photos are also important because they are memories and you can put a photo of anything in a bedroom. You can put up photos of your kids’ interests. For example, if they like animals, sports, music or traveling, you can put up photos of animals they like, them playing a sport, playing an instrument or, of a place that
they visited. If they like art, pictures that they drew or like can be a decoration in their room as well. Instead of having one light on the ceiling, you can put other lights in your kids’ bedroom. Lamps and strands of lights are perfect; you can put them anywhere in the room which makes it very convenient. Parents and kids both love oil dispensers. They are great because they make the room smell good, they are easy to use, and they help when you are sick. Dispensers look very professional and some even light up. Walls are another important thing. Kids should get to choose what color their walls will be because…Why not? You have to look at your walls everyday and they should be a color that you like. Now that you have an idea of what kids want their bedroom to be like, where do you put everything? Well, that’s for both of you to decide. You should work it out together so you both agree on the arrangement. Don’t forget that you both can always change it up. Also, keep in mind that all kids need their own space and, we won’t forget how lucky we are to have that space!
MIXOLOGY TIPSY TEMPTATIONS
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FOND MEMORIES Glassware: Irish Coffee Glass Method: Shake – Strain into a traditional Irish Coffee Glass (or available chilled cocktail glass) – Top with whipped cream and serve. Ingredients: 1.5 oz. Vida Del Maguey Mezcal 1.5 oz. Chocolate Milk .5 oz. Cinnamon Syrup 3 Dashes Bittermen’s Xocolatl Mole Bitters Garnish: Unsweetened whipped cream and grated nutmeg Day of the Dead is all about memories and celebrating the good times of yesterday. In honor of Dia de Muertos, raise a glass featuring a little Mezcal. Native to southern Mexico (just like Day of the Dead), the traditions of Mezcal have been passed down through generations. Del Maguy, with its light smoke, and vibrant mineral palates, combine with chocolate to taste like a dark sea salted chocolate candy from childhood memories. Sweet and savory all at once, the pair forms a delicious base for this cocktail. Traditional Day of the Dead flavors of cinnamon and mole (a chocolate spice native to southern Mexico) combine to build depth and body that is both seasonal and sensual. Finally, what is a good treat without a little whipped cream? The perfect rich finish, accentuating the layered savory notes of the Mezcal and bitters along with the sweet spice from the chocolate and cinnamon. Perfect for sitting down and raising a glass to the family that have paved the way. “Fond Memories” always call for a great toast! *Cinnamon syrup can be purchased or homemade
OLD FRIENDS Glassware: Rocks Glass Method: Stirred – Strain over ice into a rocks glass Ingredients: 1.5 oz. Olmeca Altos Anejo .5 oz. Apple Brandy .25 oz. Honey Syrup 3 Dashes Regan’s Orange Bitters Garnish: Orange peel
reminisce about friends and family past. Here, anejo (old) tequila sets the tone of conversation. The barrel aging of the highland Olmeca Altos anejo brings forth notes of vanilla, citrus and baking spice, an incredible recipe for a seasonal starting point. Apple brandy becomes a stellar accomplice of the light floral flavors that come from both a highland tequila and agave spirit made with the traditional Tahona method. Rounding the cocktail out, some finishing touches of honey syrup and orange bitters are added, just like an old friend adding in a few “forgotten” pieces of a family memory. This holiday season, celebrate Day of the Dead and raise a glass to good memories, and “Old Friends” and family. *Honey Syrup: Combine equal parts honey and hot water and stir till fully mixed.
FORGET ME NOT Glassware: Collins Glass Method: Shake – Strain over ice into a collins glass – Top with sparkling wine and stir to mix. Ingredients: 1.5 oz. Avion Silver 1.5 oz. Grapefruit Juice .5 oz. Pomegranate Juice .25 oz. Lime Juice .25 oz. Agave Nectar 2 oz. Campo Viejo Cava Brut Reserva Garnish: Pink Salt and Grapefruit Peel Some ancient cultures believe that as long as a person is remembered, their spirit lives on. This belief is central to the Day of the Dead. Family members have photos and representation placed around the house that keep them in mind of the deceased. Like a good portrait, a good cocktail is a great way to keep the memories of loved ones. Avion silver, from the highlands of Jesus Maria, showcases the notes of citrus, tropical fruit and the natural earthiness that is expressed by a quality tequila. Next, grapefruit builds out the citrus tones and forms the base of Mexico’s most popular cocktails (the Paloma). Lime juice and agave nectar are a natural choice of indigenous ingredients that support with sweet and sour tones vital to a refreshing cocktail. Finally, club soda, or flavored soda, is replaced by Spanish sparkling cava, Campo Viejo. Bright, vibrant, full of texture and flavor, with no extra sweetness, the cava balances the deep zest of the pomegranate juice setting a stage not to forget. No matter the amount of time, “Forget me Not”, and enjoy a Day of the Dead alongside an ideal cocktail.
Day of the Dead has become more than just a local cultural tradition. Pictures, presents, flowers and offerings of food and drink adorn celebratory sites throughout the world. One of the most common offerings in Mexico, Tequila, makes a great spirit of choice to sip and
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FOODIE
CURRIED CARROT AND APPLE SOUP
TASTE OF THE TOWN INGREDIENTS 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 medium onion chopped 1 medium leek halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise 1 medium fennel bulb cored and chopped Kosher salt Pepper 2 pounds carrots cut crosswise into 1/4-inch rounds 1 1/4 pounds celery root peeled and chopped 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and chopped 7 gingersnap cookies 1 tablespoon Madras curry powder 2 garlic cloves crushed 1 teaspoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger 2 thyme sprigs 2 quarts chicken stock 1 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar Toasted pumpkin seeds, for garnish Chopped mint, for garnish Chopped cilantro, for garnish
DIRECTIONS Step 1 In a large saucepan, melt the butter. Add the onion, leek, fennel and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and just starting to brown, about 9 minutes. Add the carrots, celery root, apple, gingersnaps, curry powder, garlic, ginger and thyme. Stir while cooking until the carrots and celery root soften slightly, about 10 minutes. Add the stock and bring to a boil. Simmer over moderate heat, continually stirring, until the vegetables are very tender, about 25 minutes. Discard the thyme sprigs. Step 2 Working in batches, puree the soup in a blender with the sour cream and vinegar until smooth. Reheat the soup if necessary and season with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted pumpkin seeds, chopped mint and cilantro. Serve.
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FALL FLAVORS
GLAZED PORK CHOPS WITH PEARS INGREDIENTS 4 smoked boneless pork chops 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large sweet onion cut into thin wedges 1/2 cup dry red wine or reduced-sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 2 large ripe pears cut into 1-inch wedges DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350°. In an ovenproof skillet, over medium-high heat, brown pork chops on both sides; remove from pan. In same pan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Add wine, vinegar and honey and bring to a boil, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Stirring occasionally. Return chops to pan and top with pears. Transfer to oven and bake until pears are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
PUMPKIN WHOOPIE PIES INGREDIENTS 1 cup shortening 2 cups packed brown sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1-1/2 cups canned pumpkin
FILLING 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Dash of salt 3/4 cup whole milk 1 cup shortening 2 cups confectioners' sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400°. Cream shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. In another bowl, whisk the next six ingredients and beat into creamed mixture alternately with pumpkin. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake 10-11 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool. For filling, combine flour and salt in a small saucepan. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Refrigerate, covered, until completely cooled. In another bowl, beat shortening, confectioners' sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add chilled milk mixture and beat until light and fluffy, about 7 minutes. Spread on the bottoms of half of the cookies; cover with remaining cookies. Store in the refrigerator. OCT | NOV | DEC 2018
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STYLIST FASHION FOWARD
SO, WHAT ARE THE FASHION TRENDS FOR THIS FALL SEASON? GLAD THAT YOU ASKED… This season, expect to find women donning traditional styles with modern twists. For men, it is all about cargo. Cargo everything!
ANIMAL PRINTS Zebra and leopard are back in a big way for winter 2018. Catwalks around the world featured the prints of Calvin Klein, Givenchy, Balenciaga and Tom Ford. TWEED Add an air of old England chic to your wardrobe next season by nodding to the tweed trend. Marc Jacobs played with textures, styling oversized tweed coats with leather skirts. Louis Vuitton dressed numerous models in tweed skirts that most women will want next season. CHECKS Also, giving a nod to British Isle traditions is the check trend. Plaid, Prince of Wales heritage or tartan, checks in all their many forms are key for the new season. Calvin Klein, Erdem and Versace led the way in design. CARGO Skinny jeans have proliferated the scene for a long time now. It’s been a beat since men had reason to wear clothing with big, roomy pockets. This fall, cargo took over men’s runways. Cargo vests and jackets, cargo backpacks and, of course, pants…
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INC. WE TAKE A HOLISTIC AND COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO YOUR FINANCES.
WE LISTEN TO OUR CLIENTS AND UNDERSTAND THEIR UNIQUE FINANCIAL SITUATION AND DEVELOP CUSTOMIZED STRATEGIES FOR THEM.
Marc S. Schliefer, CFP® Equity Planning Inc. 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 900 Bethesda, MD 20814 Phone: 301-652-8702 Fax: 301-652-9066 www.equityplanning.com marcs@equityplanning.com www.linkedin.com/in/marcschliefer/
Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, | NOV | DEC 2018named 57entity. an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC is under separateOCT ownership from any other
MONEY & FINANCE MONEY SENSE
COLLECTIONS How to Handle Your Collections of Art, Antiques and Other Things. By Marc S. Schliefer, CFP® President and Financial Planner
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Many people enjoy collecting things. There are so many things that you can collect from coins, stamps, art and antiques to other unique items. We have had people collect Bobble Heads and baseball cards too! Sometimes people collect things that have no monetary value, but they continue to collect them because collecting certain items make them happy. Here are some points for collecting items of value. If you collect coins, stamps, comic books or other items like these, you should catalog the items and try to get a nationally recognized organization to give you a condition report. Places like the American Numismatic Association are there for coins and the Philatelic Foundation are examples of places that will grade the coin or stamp and you can use that to catalog your collection. For art and antiques, you will need to get what is called the “provenance” in order to get the highest value. The provenance is a paper trail showing that the art was actually produced by the artist or if an antique, it would show that it was actually from a certain time period along with the history of ownership. Most places require that in order to prove that an item is authentic and not a fake or forgery. In addition, it is important that you get an appraisal from a certified appraiser who would know that the painting is original, or the antique is authentic. This will help you get the highest value. Art and artists fall in and out of favor depending on the world situation and the art auctions. Sometimes certain artists’ works become very popular and
hard to find and get very expensive. Other artists fall out of favor based on many factors. It could be that they did something that was morally questionable and have notoriety for something they did and now nobody is willing to support them. The value of art usually goes up after an artist dies. There are a few artists where their prices more than doubled right after their death. This is a supply and demand issue, there will not be any new art produced and the demand goes up for their work. You should have your collection appraised every few years, especially if the market value is increasing. You should insure your collection also. You can get specialty insurance for whatever type of collection that you possess. The rates do vary, so you should shop around for coverage with an insurance broker that can compare several companies’ rates. You should also look for worldwide coverage if you take your collection around for show. Some people with specialty collections like comic books should catalog their collection, pay to get them graded and appraised and insure them if they are valuable. We have several clients with seven figure collections. They have to be very careful where they store the collection because you must guard against heat, humidity, sunlight and water in order to keep them in the best condition. Sometimes you will see something similar to what you own that was sold for a lot of money and you think your item may be worth as much as the other item, but the grading of the one that sold is very important
and may be a much higher grade and quality than your item. The reverse is true where an item sells for very little money, and it is not in as good shape as your item. For more specialty items like bobble heads, you should look at prices on eBay and other online auction sites. A client bought a certain bobble head for $50 three years ago. The item was rare and he just sold it for $1950 a few weeks ago. The internet and auction sites on the web can be double edged sword. It’s great that you can find information very easily, but you need to be careful because there is a lot of fraud and forgeries are numerous. Please make sure that you do your homework before you buy or sell anything that you are collecting. Always be on your toes. Until next time, please email me with any questions to marcs@equityplanning.com
Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC is under separate ownership from any other named entity.”
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HEALTH & WELLNESS YOUR BEST SELF
‘Forever Body’ CREATING A
by Hannah Jenner
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It’s that time of year when oversized sweaters come out to play and beach wear gets hidden away, when pumpkin spiced everything provides daily temptation and the weather gets cooler, somehow, justifying a higher calorie intake. Goodbye beach body and hello comfort food! Just imagine if we could find a way to ditch the endless cycle of fad dieting and take the time to develop the habits and behaviors that lead to long term and lasting change. I am talking about change in body composition, in overall health, and even in mental wellbeing. I am calling this your Forever Body. What if, rather than get caught up in this endless cycle of restricting followed by over eating, we chose to create a lifestyle based around consistent habits and behaviors, consistent healthy eating patterns and guess what - a consistent dress size. You see a pattern here? Yes indeed, consistency is your best friend. And guess what? Fad diets encourage exactly the opposite approach. We are all unique, therefore there is no such thing as one ‘diet plan’ that suits everyone. However, eating mostly whole foods most of the time is a pretty good place to start. I want to clarify here that whole foods are defined as unprocessed, real food - meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. But what does ‘mostly’ mean? Well here is the good news - if you aim to eat whole foods around 80% of the time you get 20% wiggle room to sneak in a little treat. Of course, if you eat whole foods that are largely unprocessed 100% of the time, you are winning. But, let’s face it, life happens, travel gets in the way and stressful days are appeased with a glass of wine. It’s pretty unrealistic for most people to be 100% on it all of the time. The wiggle room factor also prevents the feelings of restriction, as nothing is off limits, just consumed in moderation. It is not just the food choices that you make that are important, there are several other factors to consider when creating your new consistent lifestyle. Sleep, stress, hydration and, of course, movement are all pieces of the forever body puzzle. Sleep is incredibly important for recovery and general health but, also key to helping with weight loss and maintaining a desired weight. Lack of sleep causes stress on the body leading to raised cortisol levels, which in turn, can cause weight gain. I mentioned habits at the beginning
of this article. One great habit to practice is turning off electrical devices before getting into bed. No phones, no laptops and no TV. This will reduce stimulation that keeps you awake and aid more restful sleep. Pay attention to your stress levels and how you manage everyday stressful situations. Carrying too much stress around will wreak havoc on your health and your ability to lose body fat. Try starting with five minutes of meditation per day or take a short walk. Even just setting aside a few minutes of me time to decompress is well worth the investment, even if it feels like you don’t have any time in your schedule. It is all too common to use “I haven’t got any time” as an excuse, but it’s amazing how often we find the time to do the things we place in high value. So, start to practice the habit of putting yourself in a time out. Finally, to help get you on track with your new consistent lifestyle – make sure you are properly hydrated, at least two liters of water per day, every day (that’s 68 ounces). Poor hydration will not only hinder weight loss but cause headaches, brain fog and will absolutely hold you back from performing at your best. If you exercise regularly, be sure to add some electrolytes to combat the loss of salts from sweat. So, invest in a new water bottle and get into the habit of filling it up a certain number of times per day to meet your target water consumption. So, here is your road map to a forever body: set realistic goals with realistic time frames. If you are looking to lose some weight, aim for 1-2 pounds per week rather than 20. Be consistent in every aspect of your healthy lifestyle and move your body as much as you can, every step helps. Forget the quick fix solution and start thinking long term. Just focus on developing one good habit at a time so you can look good, feel great and perform to the best of your abilities all year round.
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REAL ESTATE LUXURY LIVING
FROM DC TO NORTHERN VIRGINIA TO SUBURBAN MARYLAND, John Eric | Trevor Moore and Associates bring you the best in luxury real estate from all across the metropolitan region.
Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 3001 Washington Blvd., Suite 400, Arlington,VA 22201 | 703.822.7400
mcclean, virginia
ENGLISH TUDOR
This exquisite and stately English Tudor estate is a masterpiece of design, curb appeal and effortlessly brings modern living and sophistication together beautifully. The well-manicured grounds, circular driveway with stone accents and gracious entry hint at the stunning home you will find behind the front door. This beautiful space with its open plan, seamlessly combines the family room, kitchen and breakfast nook all together. The comfortable family room, with its traditional fireplace, is a wonderful place to relax while being a part of the action
8104 Spring Hill Farm Drive $4,148,800
happening in the kitchen. The kitchen, complete with large island/inset sink, gorgeous tilework and stainless-steel appliances, has ample space and seating. The dining room is large and perfect for formal entertaining or everyday dinning and provides outdoor access. This level also contains a half bath, a mudroom and an amazing utility room with its own sink, tons of storage space and a built-in window bench. Next to the utility room is a separate staircase, which leads up to a loft space located over the garage. It is perfect for an additional bedroom, playroom, study or exercise room.
JOHN ERIC & TREVOR MOORE +1 703 822 7400 office@johnandtrevor.com
washington, dc
CHINA TOWN CHARM
This condo, centrally located in Chinatown | Penn Quarter, is right in the middle of all the action. This neighborhood is packed with shops and restaurants and a Metro stop is only a few minutes’ walk from the front door. It’s living at its best. The lovely 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit is both spacious and cozy. An open floor plan combines the living room, kitchen and dining room. The living room is a great space and is separated from the kitchen by a lovely dining space. The kitchen, complete with stainless-steel appliances, has an
809 6th Street NW #43 $449,000
island that provides additional seating for dining. A wonderful feature is the in-unit washer/dryer providing a much- desired convenience. The master bedroom has clean lines with a large picture window that bathes the space in natural light and also features a big walk-in closet. The master bath is light filled and features a large shower. The second bedroom in the unit can also be used as an office and the second bathroom is convenient. The location and space of this condominium is not one to miss!
arlington, virginia
LUXURY TOWNHOME
This exquisite property is set in North Arlington’s most soughtafter luxury townhome community, Hillcrest. This small, boutique community of 33 luxury townhomes is situated on seven pristine acres perched on the hills above Georgetown, the Potomac River and Spout Run Parkway. Hillcrest is a lush, secure, private enclave, surrounded by protected National Park Service lands. This elegant 3 bedroom, 3 full and 2 half bath
2121 21st Rd N $1,190,000
home offers the best in urban suburban living. Its open floor plan is perfect for both living and entertaining. As you enter the home, you are welcomed by a separate formal, yet inviting living room with a cozy fireplace and beautiful built ins which then flows into the elegant dining room.
JOHN ERIC & TREVOR MOORE +1 703 822 7400 office@johnandtrevor.com
washington, dc
DC CONDO LIVING
This lovely condominium, with a DC rowhouse feel, underwent a complete renovation in 2015 and is set in the action-packed Columbia Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C. In real estate, it is all about location and this home is located within minutes’ walk to some of the city’s best restaurants, shops and cafes. Even better, the size of this condominium is not common in Washington – it is massive!
726 Girard St NW #1 $899,000
Upon entering the home, on the main level, you are met with a spacious open-plan kitchen, dining and living room area. Sunlight bathes the space, creating a cozy and warm setting. The kitchen, with its white/ grey marble island top, white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and beautiful grey tilework, seamlessly blends modernity with style.
arlington, virginia
TIMELESS ELEGANCE
The classic style and timeless elegance of this home are the pinnacle of luxury living, its amenities and open floor plan provide the ideal place to live and entertain. This exquisite Arts and Crafts home is set in Woodmont, one of North Arlington’s most sought-after communities. Woodmont is perched above the banks of the Potomac River and is renowned for its beautiful spacious homes, tree lined streets and the 19-acre Fort C.F. Smith Park. These characteristics and its superior
2923 24th Road North $1,895,000
location are what draws people to this well-established neighborhood, providing a vibrant and friendly environment. This home is located minutes to our Nation’s Capital, Reagan National Airport and the Kennedy Center, as well as the shops, galleries and restaurants of Clarendon, Georgetown and DC; an ideal lifestyle awaits.
JOHN ERIC & TREVOR MOORE +1 703 822 7400 office@johnandtrevor.com
washington, dc
BROOKLAND 6 CONDO
For those who wish to own a great space in one of the District’s hottest neighborhoods – Brookland – this building’s for you! Newly constructed, it is surrounded by some of the best bars and restaurants in the city, including Smith Public Trust and Salumeria 2703. Culture? This neighborhood is a beehive of the Washington, DC cultural scene, boasting the Brookland Artspace Lofts, the renovated and expanded Dance Place, and Alice’s Jazz and Cultural Society, a nonprofit jazz club that hosts local bands. Boutiques and
718 Jackson St, NE $549,900
shops abound right outside the door. Even better is its convenience to the Brookland/CUA metro stop, which means easy transportation throughout the city. These condominiums are perfect in form and function. Hardwood floors and recessed lighting are found throughout the spaces. Clean lines and bright spaces are hallmarks of the units. All share a common floor plan.
JOHANNA BAKER +1 703 217 1681 johanna@johnandtrevor.com
Vita Lounge Collection in cherry
Visit our Georgetown showroom to view more. 1028 33RD STREE T, NW · WA SHINGTON, DC · 202.793.2606
FREEPORT, ME · BOSTON · NEW YORK · PHIL ADELPHIA · WASHINGTON, DC · SAN FRANCISCO · 202.793.2606 · THOSMOSER.COM
BUZZ DAILY DC
THE INN AT LITTLE WASHINGTON
BRIDGES TO INDEPENDENCE
The acclaimed Michelin restaurant guide has given a Virginia restaurant three stars, the first time a DC area restaurant has received this recognition.
Bridges to Independence has announced a new contribution from AT&T. AT&T’s support will directly benefit Bridges’ mission by expanding the organization’s Youth Development Program which serves children experiencing homelessness. Bridges to Independence’s Youth Development Program aids school-aged children five and older. The program provides vulnerable youth the opportunity to improve academic performance, find outlets for positive self-expression, expand opportunities for future college and/or career success, promote health and wellness and build skills for adulthood. (Bridges to Independence)
Patrick O’Connell’s The Inn at Little Washington earned three stars—the best a restaurant can get—after having two the previous two years. The Inn, a five-star hotel and upscale restaurant, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with various events. (Patch)
CHUCK’S” The experience of walking into Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center—known to patrons as simply “Chuck’s”—has not changed in years. The staff, many of whom have worked the floor for decades, still write sales tickets by hand. There are no clean lines or trendy lighting in the space. The colors are rather drab, save for the instruments on display. The overall feeling is one of organized chaos. And yet, after six decades, people still come. This year marks this local institution’s 60th anniversary, and it’s an example of an independent retail operation that is not only surviving in the face of big box stores and web retailers, but is thriving. Chuck’s is commemorating 60 years in its own unique way. Rather than just a series of events, a number of partner manufacturers are making limited edition instruments stamped with special logos and features, all available on the showroom floor. Most notable is an exact recreation of the “Big Chuck” wah-wah pedal, a piece of equipment sold in the ’70s that has now become part of Chuck’s lore. (WCP)
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DIPLOMACY DC INTERNATIONAL
EVENING AT THE EMBASSY OF MONGOLIA On October 5th, you will have the rare opportunity to enjoy a night at the Mongolian Embassy. This event is an amazing opportunity to learn about Mongolian cuisine and culture. One of the featured highlights is a Mongolian music presentation, which will include iconic Mongolian throat chanting. After a buffet of Mongolian delicacies, there will be a presentation on the highlights of Mongolian history. The event will take place at the Mongolian Embassy and will begin at 7pm. Tickets are $50 and business attire is requested. TRICK-OR-TREAT EMBASSY ROW This Halloween, instead of going trick-ortreating in your neighborhood, country hop instead. You will have the unique opportunity to try candies from all over the world. There will also be tour guides to give you more information about how each country celebrates Halloween. The tour will take you through Dupont Circle and Embassy Row. Tickets are $30 and the tour will begin at 6:45. The meeting location will be at the Dupont Circle metro station’s north exit at the top of the escalator. Come dressed in your costume and get ready to eat some delicious candy!
HOLIDAY CHOCOLATE FEAST IN SPAIN What’s a better way to ring in the holidays than drinking wine expertly paired with delicious chocolates? The Embassy of Spain will be hosting a warm and cozy event dedicated to meeting new people and enjoying great food. There will be an array of exotic chocolate and wine pairings for you to sample. Three artisan truffles will also be showcased at the chocolate house. Tickets sell out fast, so the embassy recommends buying them in advance. All attendees must be 21 and over and business or cocktail attire is requested. Tickets are $55 and the event will begin at 7 pm sharp. Address: The Chocolate House, 1904 18th Street NW.
by Katherine Eschenbach OCT | NOV | DEC 2018
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BLACK BOOK INTERNATIONAL FAIRE
Cup of tea
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JOHN ERIC HOME
When the weather turns chilly, it’s always comforting to relax with a hot cup of tea. If you’re abroad, here are the best places in the world to grab a cuppa (and to buy loose leafs to bring home)… MARIAGE FRÈRES; PARIS With one of the most elaborate selections in the world, this prestigious Parisian emporium showcases an apothecary-style wall of more than 600 aromatic varieties—all innovative and unparalleled in quality. Gourmands can savor the ultimate haute cup of tea (like the Coup De Soleil vanilla black tea blend with caramel and wild strawberry essence), alongside exquisite French cuisine and tea-scented delights. mariagefreres.com WANG DE CHUAN; TAIPEI, TAIWAN This century-old, family-owned shop strives to reinvent tea culture with a fresh take on Taiwanese tradition. Sleek and contemporary, the latest outlet steeps the four major categories—green, verdant, red and black—of Chinese tea, and serves richly flavored milk tea, a unique coldbrew tea and freshly baked pastries. dechuantea.com ‘T ZONNETJE; AMSTERDAM ‘t Zonnetje has been selling tea, coffee and spices (thee, koffie en kruiden) to the people of Amsterdam since 1642. Showcasing antique wares and an extensive tea selection, this charming retail shop features an upstairs salon serving accompaniments like Jodenkoeken (a traditional Dutch shortbread) and English marmalade. t-zonnetje.nl DAVIDSTEA; CANADA (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) These colorful, modern shops across Canada and the US offer a tea experience that is fun, fresh and welcoming. With the largest collection of organic teas and infusions in North America, DavidsTea steeps more than 150 delicious types including exclusive blends, premium green teas and whimsical dessert creations like Red Velvet Cake and the minty chocolate Read My Lips. davidstea.com ROOIBOS TEAHOUSE; CLANWILLIAM, SOUTH AFRICA This charming Clanwilliam shop is the world’s only teahouse serving exclusively rooibos (tea cultivated from plants grown on South Africa’s lush western cape). The shop boasts more than 100 rich blends—in sweet, spicy, fruity, floral and herbal categories. Select five flavors to sample during an hour-long tasting session or pick a pot to savor in the on-site garden. netmar.co.za
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LIGHTHORSE 1787 Light Horse Lane | Delaplane | VA 20144 $1,995,000
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