High Country Home Magazine - Spring 2010

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Letter from The Publisher The snow has finally melted and Jack Frost has given way to lush green country side and blooming dogwoods. Birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the Spring 2010 edition of High Country Home is by your side. Although the economy is down, the talent and drive of the American people is not. At High County Home, we expect this spring to be a time of growth and renewal.

What an adventure this has been! Every issue the content gets better and our readership grows. We are setting trends in the local magazine industry, and we hope you will continue to be a part of our success. If you have suggestions on how we can better serve you, or if you know of a gorgeous home that should be featured in this publication, please do not hesitate to call us. We would love your suggestions!

In this Spring 2010 issue you will find insight into interior design, including how to stage your home to best suit your living and hosting needs. We have provided advice from talented professionals in the home industry to help you organize your space to utilize its capacity to the fullest. The issue includes delightful recipes to satisfy your spring palette, elegant images of High Country homes, the latest products that are sure to improve any home, and in-depth articles to provide an insight to the latest building trends. This issue will also introduce you to some of the best builders in the area, and let you see their work; our Design Profile section highlights some of the best homes in the High Country.

For more information and to stay up to date; join our Facebook fan page, by searching High Country Home Magazine within the network. Don’t forget to visit our website for exclusive content and subscribe now to ensure you don’t miss an exciting and informative issues of our magazine! Now sit back, enjoy the Blue Ridge views, sip a glass of lemonade, and enjoy your issue of the High Country Home. Every issue is a new adventure, and it is time for this one to begin.

Chris Rabon, Publisher

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Please contact us if you would like to advertise in our print or online mediums, contribute articles, request info on home photography, submit letters to the editor, subscribe to our magazine, or just want to give us some feedback.

You can find our premier home magazine and resource guide in racks and stacks across the High Country from West Jefferson and Boone to Blowing Rock and Banner Elk. They are so popular though, that sometimes it is hard to track one down.

Market Connection Publishers of the High Country Home 1082 E. King St Suite 6 Boone, NC 28607 828-264-2670 www.highcountryhomemagazine.com highcountryhomemagazine@gmail.com marketconnectionads@gmail.com

If you're tired of looking for a High Country Home Magazine and simply want to guarantee that you get one we've got the solution for you. If you live off the mountain and want to receive one in the mail, we've made it easy.

Staff Chris Rabon, Publisher Jon-Paul Grice, Editor Lindsey Lanning, Account Rep. Jonathan Triplett, Account Rep. Katie Henderson, Writer Rebecca Peterson, Graphic Design Stefan Olson, Photographer

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All you have to do is subscribe!

Right now we are offering the next four issues of the High Country Home Magazine for the low price of just $19.99 a year! This offer will cover all your High Country Home Stories, photos, and resources for the entirety of 2010!

Look for the blow in subscription card in this issue or send your check or money order for $19.99 (for the next 4 quarterly issues) or $34.99 (for the next 8 quarterly issues, only $17.50/year) to 1082 E. King St, Suite 6, Boone, NC 28607. If you wish to subscrive via credit card please call 828-264-2670.

Departments

17

56

103

Introductions 18 People We Admire

Home Guide

22 Businesses We Applaud

Beyond The Box

27

Out Of The House

47 Remodeling Rome

103 Grandfather Of A Trail

52 Color Intuition

106 Hawksnest Zipline A Success

56 At Home Oasis

84

62 Planning To Sell 66 An Enertia Update

27 Weatherization & Home Star

For The Table

34

115 The Marketplace 115 Products You Need 120 The Brokerage 122 Services 127 Corkboard

Other 124 Final Thoughts 126 Sponsor Index

34 Recipes from High Country Restaurants

Focus On Events 8 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

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117

Design Profiles

71

Cover Story: Southern Charm Built by Doug McGuire Construction, this Turtle Creek home features a southern feel and artistic architecture.

Cover Photo by Stefan Olson Cover Story by Katie Henderson

The Adler Lodge

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This beautiful Valle lodge was built by Logs America to fit the needs of a designer and builder.

Elk River Retreat

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Rustic With Elegance

The Farm House

Tom Eggers showcases two beautiful homes he built in the Glens Of Grandfather and introduces his new company Tom Eggers Construction.

Lehmann Construction’s craftsmanship is exemplified by this marvelous 7,000 square foot home in the luxury community, The Farm at Banner Elk

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84

Mike Smith, of Mike Smith Builders put his hard earned time and effort into building this masterpiece.

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Contributors Colleen Luntzel is the co-owner of House Warming, a newly established design group emphasizing the importance of making dwelling places into home through architectural design, remodeling, and decorating. She resides in Boone with her husband of thirty two years and their youngest of five children.

Breton Frazier, the DeClutter Diva, lives in St. Augustine, Florida where she works privately with individuals and corporate clients. Breton began tackling closets as a wardrobe consultant more than thirty years ago and evolved into a personal organizer. Write her with your questions on decluttering at: thedeclutterdiva@gmail.com

Judi Beck is a facilitator, art consultant, and freelance writer living in the High Country. She’s been published in Pastel Artist International, Philanthropy International and the Inner Edge, as well as numerous regional publications. She and her husband, Kevin, were owners of the Upstairs Gallery in Blowing Rock. She is the author of “The Ecology of Conversation.”

Katie Henderson has a BS in Psychology and is working on her MBA at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. Katie is very interested in sustainability, anything to do with animals, outdoors, reading, and writing.

Jamie Weyer grew up in Mooresville, North Carolina. She graduated from Appalachian State University in May 2007 with a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design. She currently lives in Boone. Jamie completed her internship at Custom Mica in Banner Elk and has been their kitchen designer for three years.

Staci Norris is a full time designer at High Country Cabinets of Banner Elk. She has spent the last 2 years in the kitchen and bath industry since graduating from Appalachian with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. She works with both homeowners and contractors and her projects range in size from small remodels to large custom homes. She resides in Boone with her husband Seth.

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TheIntroductions Get to know the businesses we applaud and people we admire in the High Country People We Admire • 18 / Businesses We Applaud • 22

Designs In Wood: A Family Affair

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ohn Ulery owner of Designs in Wood has been delivering fine hand-crafted tables and furniture to the High Country since 1979. John initially started his business in California, but he and his wife Penny, in search of a more laid back lifestyle and some land of there own, moved to Asheville and then to Sparta where you can find them today. John was soon joined by his son Devin who shared his father’s innate desire to create with wood.

This father & son tandem have successfully run their business with one simple rule, there will always be a demand for a wellmade product.

With this rule in place Designs In Wood has thrived, and as a company they produce about 500 pieces of furniture annually.

Quality is job one for this duo and they spend most of their time trying to keep their business growing by supplying there clients with truly well built furniture they can pass down to the next generation. The Ulerys take great pride in their work and it has not gone unnoticed. They have garnered awards from all across the country: Atlanta Art Festival, Coconut Grove Art festival, Ann Arbor Art Festival, and the Union Street Art Festival in San Francisco.

If you would like more information about John and Devin Ulery and Designs in Wood you can visit their website at www.designinwood.org

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Introductions :: People We Admire

Tom Eggers

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Tom Eggers Construction

om Eggers, owner of Tom Eggers Construction is a native to the mountains of western North Carolina. He has over fifteen years of experience in the construction industry. As founder of E and K Construction, a High Country construction company whose reputation precedes it’s self, Tom dealt with some of the best communities, building partners, and associates in the area and was held to a higher standard. This higher standard of quality, efficiency, and amazing customer satisfaction has transferred with Tom to his new company, Tom Eggers Construction. Since forming Tom Eggers Construction, Tom has been working diligently to find ways to lower his overhead and make building a home more affordable for his customers. Tom’s hard work and determination to bring affordability to his clients came with one caveat, that he would not sacrifice quality at any cost. Now, with Tom Eggers Construction you can expect a well built and beautiful home at a newer and more affordable rate.

Tom Eggers feels strongly about all of his new goals with his new company, Tom Eggers Construction, and believes his new methodology can better satisfy his customers.

You can contact Tom Eggers of Tom Eggers Construction by visiting his website at www.TomEggersConstruction.com or by calling 828-898-3210 or 828-898-4000.

Ken Murray Precision Cabinets

Ken Murray moved to Boone with his family when he was five years old.

He attended local elementary schools and graduated from Watauga High School. He then attended Appalachian State University and graduated with a BS in Industrial Technology. Upon graduation, Ken went to work for the Hickory Chair Company, where he spent nine years in the Product Engineering Department. The last five years he spent as the Product Engineering Manager.

In 1994, the opportunity to return home to Boone presented itself, and Precision Cabinets, Inc. was formed. It was then that Ken and partners purchased an established local, quality-oriented, cabinet shop. Within the first year, Ken purchased all the shares of the company to become the sole owner. With the reputation of the established cabinet shop and Ken’s local contacts, in addition to exceptional customer service and workmanship, Precision Cabinets began to grow.

With the help of many loyal builder clients and many repeat homeowner clients, the company has grown more than ten fold. Precision Cabinets, Inc. is proud of the fact that nearly 90% of its work comes from referrals of its satisfied customers. Ken believes that every job is important, no matter how large or small. Residential or commercial, they can do it all. Ken says making customer service their number one goal is what allows him to claim that in all these years of work we have not had a dissatified customer.

Ken’s main goal is to provide each client the cabinetry and accessories that will complement their home and lifestyle for many years to come. He strives to provide quality products, workmanship and service at reasonable prices.

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Firethorn

Solitary Refinement The 160 acre mountaintop community of Firethorn has taken shape here in Blowing Rock. Trails and roads have been gently carved around cliffs and streams. Neighborhoods have been thoughtfully laid out and completed with homesites in dense hemlock and hardwood forests, some along a river or stream, and some on high mountain meadows with breath-taking views. Hiking trails have been carefully completed in conjunction with the clubhouse, gatehouse, trout ponds, waterfalls, and green areas.

This gated community, located on Highway 321, just one-and-a-half miles outside the resort village of Blowing Rock, is undeniably the last, best residential land in the area. Only 96 distinctive single family homesites will ever be available, ranging in size from one to three-plus acres. Please come visit us and see why Firethorn isn't a plan or promise; it is a dream come true, here and now.

The Last, Best Place.

1129-1 Main Street, Blowing Rock • 828/295-7777 www. FirethornBlowingRock .com

Introductions :: People We Admire

Alex Pendolino

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Custom Mica & Wood Products

ustom Mica and Wood Products owner Alex Pendolino has been providing the High Country with custom cabinetry and woodworking for over 25 years. While 25 years may seem like a long time, Alex has actually been in business for himself for almost 40. Like many other business owners here in the High Country, Alex got his start somewhere else. Seeking a better life for himself and his three small children Alex made the move from Florida to North Carolina.

Now a fixture in the High Country, Alex calls on all those years of experience to create quality wood pieces for his clientele. Alex’s expertise in woodworking allows him to create a vast array of wood products such as: Kitchen & Bath Cabinets, Wine Cellars, Home Movie Theatres and T.V. Units just to name a few. While some business owners may not know what makes them successful, Alex is absolute, “We have all the years of experience, we are a full service dealer, and we do all our own installs because we are the best at what we do.” Alex is very proud of his work and he stands behind it, he is a member of the Better Business Bureau as well as the National Association of Home Builders.

If you would like more information on Alex Pendolino and Custom Mica and Wood Products you can visit him at his workshop at 9218 - 4 Highway 105 or just give him a call 828-963-4109

Bradley Eller

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ELC - Landscape Lighting

radley Eller, owner of Lighting-Designs of NorthWest NC, sells, designs, and installs custom landscape and estate lighting systems. Operating in the High Country for the past four and a half years, Bradley offers the highest quality products at an affordable price.

“We continue to be on the look out for new products and services to offer,” Bradley said. One example of this is the new LED Landscape Lighting System; these systems use a fraction of the electricity of a standard Halogen system and the bulb life is five to six time longer.

All products at Lighting-Designs of NorthWest NC carry a lifetime warranty, assuring homeowners a worry-free system that will exceed expectations.

Each system is custom designed and tailored to each customer’s unique tastes and preferences.

“I am a hands-on, hardworking, eager to please business owner,” Bradley said. “I am committed to doing every job right, that is to say we install every job as if it was our own. We take special care to make sure that we please our customer at every opportunity.”

Lighting-Designs of NorthWest NC is open weekdays 8:00am to 6:00pm.

For more information, call (336) 973-1352.

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Introductions :: Businesses We Applaud

Hawk Mountain Garden Center Sonya Garland

H

awk Mountain Garden Center is a full service garden and landscaping company that has been serving Foscoe and the High Country for the past 15 years; the Garden Center provides landscape design, installation and maintenance, as well as offering top quality plants, shrubs and trees.

Sonya Garland and her staff are excited to take on new jobs which will beautify their customers’ homes. “I have a creative eye and am very knowledgeable about which plants are hardy in this area,” Sonya said. “My experienced crew and I love to create a low maintenance gardens and yards that add to the beauty of our customers’ homes.”

Sonya holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design from American College of Applied Arts, is a NC Registered Landscaping Contractor, and is Certified Plant Professional. She has lived in Watauga Country for the majority of her life, and loves the mountain way of living.

As a mother of two boys at Watauga High School, and proud member of the High Country community, Sonya is enthusiastic about her business and loves to create and grow with every new challenge. From meeting with new customers, drawing up plans and estimates, coordinating the business, and ensuring 100% customer satisfaction, Sonya is enthusiastic about every aspect of her business and has plans to continue working and growing in the High Country for years to come.

“I love the challenge of taking a yard or a garden with nothing

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in it and turning it into a space that people love,” Sonya said.

“Every project is a blank canvas for me and I want to create a masterpiece.”

Sonya and her staff are very proud of the many beautiful jobs they have created throughout the High Country. From small mountain cabins to entire developments, such as Turtle Creek, and commercial jobs such as the Pizza Hut in Boone, there is not a job too big or too small for Hawk Mountain Garden Center.

“With many years of experience in landscaping design and installation and our knowledge of growing trees, shrubs, and perennials, Hawk Mountain Garden Center will provide you with a beautiful outside space where you will love to spend time,” Sonya said. Whether you have questions about what to plant in your outside space, or are looking to redesign your entire property, Hawk Mountain Garden Center is available to meet all of your residential and commercial needs. Located on Lance Trail in Banner Elk, office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00-5:30 and Saturday, 8:00-1:00. Call (828) 260-0452 today for a free consultation.

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Introductions :: Businesses We Applaud

Distinctive Kitchen And Baths

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t Distinctive Kitchens & Baths, we promise to work with you to bring your dreams to life. With you, we will create a warm welcoming room—a sanctuary you can fill with joy and memories of a lifetime. Together we will develop a look and feel that reflects your lifestyle and personality. This concept will then be transformed into a working design that matches beautiful cabinetry with the most recent functional concepts and innovations in the industry.

Distinctive Kitchens & Baths began in 2002 when Dave and Pat Parks moved to the high country from Statesville, NC. Dave, a retired veterinarian and Pat, a retired practice manager had owned and operated the Animal Hospital of Statesville for 35 years.

While this path to the kitchen and bath business is a bit unique, it has been a path that has prepared them well. The same commitment to competence, integrity and individual attention that served them so well in their former life is the basis of their current business philosophy.

Since its formation, Distinctive Kitchens & Baths, has assembled a talented and dedicated staff. In addition to Pat and Dave Parks, Billy Norris, business manager, joined the company later that year. Leah Parks (daughter-in-law) who is also an Associate NKBA Kitchen and Bath Designer, joined the firm in 2005, and John Parks (son) came aboard in 2007 as designer and project manager.

Distinctive Kitchens & Baths is the ONLY kitchen and bath studio with a NKBA Associate Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer in the High Country of North Carolina. And in 2008, award winning kitchen and bath designer, Tim Michaels joined our family as our sales and design leader in Statesville, NC. Distinctive Kitchens And Baths has their own line of custom cabinetry built to their specifications by a regional cabinet manufacturer and they also represent several other nationally known custom lines. This gives you the largest selection of styles, colors and finishes in the area. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Distinctive Kitchens And Baths at 828.963.9633 (Boone), 704.872.1870 (Statesville) or visit their website www.distinctivekitchendesigners.com.

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BeyondTheBox Discussions on innovation and legislation, including dialogue on sustainable technologies for the home.

Weatherization

& Home

Star

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Green Horizons Innovators talks about the importance of weatherization and gets excited about the future of the Home Star legislation.

L

ast issue we discussed the many benefits of performing an energy analysis with a business like Green Horizons Innovators. This issue we are going to address how you can take the information from your energy audit or analysis and make real changes through weatherization.

As you know from the Winter issue, Green Horizons Innovators is the leading service provider of energy analysis, thermal imaging reports, and weatherization in western North Carolina. Green Horizons Innovators (GHI) services the local areas of Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and West Jefferson, North Carolina and the surrounding areas of Watauga County, Avery County, Alleghany County, Wilkes County, and Yancy County, and all of North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

By contacting Green Horizons Innovators you can save energy and save money. GHI has a variety of energy analysis and thermal imaging reports that can locate the areas of your home that are losing energy. Once these areas are pinpointed, GHI can fix the problems with a variety of weatherization services ranging from weather stripping to spray foam insulation.

Weatherization is the practice of protecting a building and its interior from the elements, particularly from sunlight, precipitation, and wind, and of modifying a building to reduce energy consumption and optimize energy efficiency.

Green Horizons Innovators offers a wide variety of weatherization services including weather stripping, green fiber cellulose insulation, spray foam insulation, window installation and air sealing. Weather stripping involves sealing openings like doors and windows so your home or business is protected from the elements. GHI’s services including their vast array of energy audits can help you determing where you are losing energy and then GHI can begin the weather stripping process so your energy losses stop and your home or business environment stays comfortable and affordable, GHI also can help with any insulation needs and they use ecofriendly techniques to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Their techniques include cellulose insulation and spray foam insulation.

GHI also specializes in air sealing. There are many openings and cracks that are not seen by the eye where your home loses valuable energy. With a GHI thermal imaging report you can catch these small openings. After the problem is diagnosed, GHI can help seal the openings with their air sealing service and you can stop losing valuable energy and start to save money.

GHI is very excited about their new weatherization services but the excitement does not stop there. The newest legislation called Home Star is just in its developmental stages but has the potential to be one of, if not the most important green movement 28 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

legislations to date. To give you, the reader, more information about the Home Star legislation, according to sources like BPI and Efficiency First, the Home Star Program is: “A proposed new legislation to create jobs in existing industries by providing strong short-term incentives for energy efficiency improvements in residential buildings. The program will move quickly, with a minimum of red tape, and will act as a bridge to long-term market development of existing industries. This initiative establishes a $6 billion rebate program to encourage immediate investment in energy-efficient appliances, building mechanical systems and insulation, and whole-home energy efficiency retrofits. HOME STAR will rapidly create jobs in both construction and manufacturing, while saving families money on their energy bills. It will build on current state programs and existing industry capacity for performing both retrofits and quality assurance, using federal standards and incentives as a common platform to lower program costs and increase consumer awareness.

Strong consumer incentives to drive market demand, combined with meaningful standards and incentives to ensure model business practices for installing efficiency measures and verifying energy savings, will ensure that the growing energy efficiency retrofit industry produces ongoing and measurable energy savings while putting Americans back to work in long-term jobs. This provision should also include targeted insulation product consumer incentives to stimulate broad exposure to energy efficiency measures, expand overall retrofit activity while stimulating manufacturing.”

Although the explanation above is very detailed, the point is blatant. This legislation will make our country more energy efficient while stimulating both the economy and infrastructure.

GHI is very excited about the Home Star Program and the opportunity that abounds for energy efficienct improvements however the Home Star legislation is just in the beginnings of its legislation. GHI looks forward to these rebates in the future but emphasizes that the time for change in your home’s efficiency is today. Call 828-773-2039 or visit www.gogreenghi.com to get started with an energy analysis, thermal imaging report, or weatherization prject today!!!

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InTheGarage 1957 The 356 Carrera Speedster PAG/RC This is a Vintage 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster Wide Body Carrera Reproduction. This Vintage Speedster Replica is loaded; With Metallic silver exterior, tan leather interior, piping on the seats, and a wonderful 1915cc motor.

550 Spyder

The vintage Speedster is one of the most timeless and Classic designs ever produced and with the wide body look absolutely sensational fun. Real Porsche 356 Speedsters are recognized and revered all over the world and this 356 Speedster Replica brings back fond memories of open air motoring, evokes dreams of stepping back in time to the 50’s cruising on the autobahns or up the California coast, top down, light breeze swirling. A perfect car for a day, weekend or week of fun in the Western North Carolina High-Country. A natural for the Blue Ridge Parkway.

2003 Beck Copy of 1955 550 Spyder This is a 2003 copy of a 1955 550 Spyder made by Beck. This car is also known as the James Dean car. An original 1955 550 Spyder sells from between $750,000 to $1.5 million. The Beck is 1200lbs or so, handles very well on smooth surfaces, and with a typical 130+hp motor, accelerates very well. They also, as you might expect, brake well (with reservations). One important thing to remember is that most of the components of the Beck are 60’s VW Bug parts, and therefore not exactly high-precision race pieces.

Instead it is perfect for a day of cruising out on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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1955 Chevrolet 210

T

his is a 1955 Chevrolet 210. One look and you’ll understand America’s love affair with Muscle. This is over 3000 lbs of metal. These massive monsters were produced from 1953-1957. The 210 was Chevy’s midpriced vehicle and offered variety of body styles including two and four-door sedans and station wagons. It came stock with a six-cylinder 235.5 cubic inch engine which produced just over 120 horsepower. These originally retailed between 1,500 to 2,300 dollars. This one however, is far from any ordinary 55 Chevrolet. Every inch of this vehicle has been painstakingly redone. The 350 engine is chromed to the max and is pumping out upwards of 400 horse power, and is valued today at around sixty thousand dollars. This particular Chevy is not afraid of the road. Owners Jerry and Debbie Dodson say this a not a trailer car. They drive it often in the summer and on the weekends. It’s definitely an eye catcher and looks awesome in any garage.

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Phil Critcher’s 1972 MG - B

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he MGB story begins in 1957 when MG Motors hired Italian Stylist Frua to design a new model to replace the aging MGA. Just five years later in 1962 MGBs starting rolling off the assembly lines. With no real idea of how popular there new roadster would be MG slotted the MGB to be produced for only five years. However, the MGB was wildly popular in England as well as the U.S. and the car remained in production for about 20 years. The 1972 four cylinder, four speed MG-B pictured above is owned and enjoyed by Phil and Karen Critcher.

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ForTheTable

Recipes from the heart of the home, the kitchen. Recipes for the gathering place of the house, the dining room table.

House Cured Alaskan Salmon and Watercress Salad A little later in the summer, wild salmon from the rivers of California up to Alaska will start showing up in local markets. The dark red, rich meat of these fish can’t be matched by the typical farm raised salmon. Curing some while still fresh will allow you to savor it’s goodness for some time to come. If you don’t want to mess with curing the salmon yourself, there are quite a few good smoked and cured options at the grocery. But, the process is really quite easy. It really only involves a couple days of dealing with a big pan in your fridge.

This is such a light and tasty, salad perfect for this time of year. Soon wild watercress will be popping up along streams and in wetlands. If you’re savvy enough to know where to go, or lucky enough to have friends that are, this salad highlights the essence of this seasonal green. The peppery cress, combined with rich olive oil, fresh lemon and sweet bell pepper set the perfect backdrop for the cured salmon. Garnish with cucumber and sliced almonds; serve with water crackers and a glass of sauvignon blanc, and you have the perfect beginning to a summers evening.

Lemon, Bell Pepper Vinaigrette

1 Red bell pepper, minced 1 Shallot, minced 1 tsp Whole grain mustard 1 Lemon, juice and zest ¼ Cup Extra virgin olive oil Salt & pepper to taste Mix all ingredients with a whisk, or shake in a bottle.

Cured Salmon

1 side Fresh Salmon, small, skin-on, boned ½ Cup Sugar ¾ Cup Kosher Salt ½ Cup Basil, sliced ½ Cup Parsley, chopped 2 Tbsp White pepper, cracked 2 Limes, zest only 3 oz Cabo Wabo Tequila Mix everything except for the tequila. In a pan large enough for the salmon, unfold roughly one square yard of cheese cloth (cheese cloth is preferable, but if not available, substitute plastic wrap). Lay salmon skin side down on cloth, and cover with mixture and tequila. Wrap tightly, folding in the sides. Cover with another pan of a similar size and weigh down with plates or canned food.

Place in refrigerator overnight. Turn salmon over the next day, pouring the juices back over the fish. Replace weighted pan and refrigerate for a second night. On the third day, remove from cheesecloth and scrape off salt mixture, using cheesecloth. Slice at a 45° angle, as thinly as possible, using a long thin bladed knife. If you can manage the thin slices, the only trouble you should have is trying not to eat it all as quickly as you slice it.

Recipe provided by The Gamekeeper Call 828-963-7400

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Tempura Shrimp, Gathered Greens, Pineapple Mango Relish, Blood Orange Vinaigrette, Toasted Almonds Ingredients: -12 16/20 shrimp -2 cups tempura batter -gathered greens (mesclun or spring mix) portion to taste -1/2 pineapple (peeled and cored) small diced -2 mangos (peeled and pitted) small diced -1 red bell pepper (minced) -3 blood oranges segmented -8 oz. blood orange vinaigrette -4 oz. toasted almonds -1/2 bunch cilantro (finely chopped) -Chive tops to garnish

For the tempura batter: ½ cp flour Combine and sift all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl ½ cp corn starch Wisk cold water and egg together and add to dry 1 tsp baking soda Let sit for 20 minutes 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp sugar ½ tsp salt 1 egg 2/3 cp cold water 4 tbsp copped parsley

For the vinaigrette: 1 cup olive oil Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl except oil ¼ cup rice wine vinegar Slowly add oil while wisking ¼ cup blood orange juice (fresh squeezed) 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 2 tbsp sugar ½ tsp horseradish Salt and pepper to taste For the relish: Combine mango, pineapple, red pepper, cilantro, and 2 oz vinaigrette in a mixing bowl and toss Preparation: Holding the tail dip shrimp in batter and deep fry in 325 degree oil until shrimp are golden brown (approx. 10 minutes) NOTE: Temp oil first to ensure it is hot enough but not too hot. Pot should not be more than half full. Remove shrimp and drain on paper towel. Toss greens in vinaigrette and plate Creatively arrange relish, shrimp, toasted almonds, and garnish with chive tops Recipe provided by Glidewells Call 828-295-9683 photo by Chris Rabon

Fresh Pear and Morbier Cheese Salad Yields 4 servings Ingredients

2 Pears Wedge of Morbier Cheese (available from most grocery stores with specialty cheese counters) cut into 8 slices 8 oz. Pine Nuts (toasted @ 400° for 3 minutes) Arugula 4 - 6 slices thick cut bacon cooked crispy and crumbled Slice pears and fan around 4 plates Place 2 slices of Morbier Cheese on each plate Spoon dressing around pears Cascade Bacon and Pine Nuts over Pears Place Arugula to the edge of plate Drizzle Carrot oil and dot with Port reduction

Recipe provided by Restaurant G Call 828-295-3644

Salad Dressing

Port Reduction

1 cup Olive Oil 1/4 cup Cider Vinegar Tbsp Dijon Mustard 1/4 cup fresh flat leaf parsley 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves 1 Tbsp Fresh Thyme 1 Tbsp Fresh Oregano Salt and Pepper to taste Puree all ingredients in a blender

On a slow simmer, reduce 4 cups of Port Wine till it is reduced to 1/4 cup. Use to dot plate.

Carrot Oil 1 cup olive oil 1/4 lb. fresh carrots (peeled and diced) Puree oil and carrots together Allow to set 24 hours Strain through a fine mesh screen Allow to separate and Reserve the oil

Morbier Cheese is a semi-soft cows’ milk cheese of France named after the small village of Morbier in FrancheComté. It is ivory colored, soft and slightly elastic, and is immediately recognizable by the black layer of tasteless ash separating it horizontally in the middle. Traditionally, the cheese consists of a layer of morning milk and a layer of evening milk. Nowadays, the cheese is usually made from a single milking with the ash added for tradition.

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Cherry Popper Pork Cherry Popper Pork is one of Paolucci’s chef specialties. It’s the owner, Carl Sr.’s take on a classic Italian dish from Arthur Avenue district in the Bronx.

The dish is a grilled pork loin served with a spicy cherry pepper chutney with a bit of tang. The cherry pepper chutney is a combination of diced cherry peppers, red and green bell peppers that are slow simmered in white wine served with roasted vegetable risotto. This is a great dish to be paired with a nice Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

The Recipe: For the pork:

4lbs pork (loin or chops) ½ - 1” thick Olive oil to grease pan 1 cup diced red pepper 1 cup diced green pepper 1 cup diced white onion ¼ cup diced cherry peppers 4 stalks of celery diced 1/8 cup chopped fresh basil 3 tablespoon fresh chopped garlic ¼ white wine 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon of each salt and pepper

Procedure:

Coat the sauté pan with olive oil and sauté the garlic with a pinch of salt for 1-2 minutes. Then add the peppers, onions, celery, and basil and the salt and pepper and sauté until veggies start to brown. Add the white wine, brown sugar, and let simmer for 5-8 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and most of the wine is gone. Grill your pork until cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Roasted Vegetable Risotto:

2 cups dry risotto 7 cups chicken or vegetable stock ¼ cup coarsely diced carrots ¼ cup coarsely diced eggplant ¼ cup coarsely diced red onion ¼ cup coarsely diced green pepper ¼ cup coarsely diced red pepper ¼ cup coarsely diced zucchini ¼ cup coarsely diced mushrooms 6 whole (peeled) garlic cloves ¼ cup of olive oil 4 tablespoons of Italian Seasoning 2 tablespoons salt and pepper

Procedure:

Toss all of the chopped vegetables, the garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and olive oil in a large bowl and place on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes at 400 degrees, shaking periodically. To cook the risotto, grease pan with a little olive oil and sauté for 2 minutes. Addd stock ½ cup at a time with continuous stirring until tender in about 30 minutes. Fold roasted vegetables into risotto, careful not to mash vegetable while folding.

Serve chutney over pork and risotto and enjoy!

Recipe provided by Paolucci’s Call 828-268-7525 photo by Chris Rabon

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FocusOnEvents A seasonal spotlight for all the peripherals of the home. For Spring we are focusing on events like the High Country Home Show.

16th Annual High Country Home Show

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 41

I

t’s that time of year again when the sky turns blue the flowers and trees start to bloom and all the beauty of the High Country starts to unfurl. While Spring has numerous natural heralds to announce itself the High Country has been able to enjoy another Hallmark for this time of year.

For the past 15 years the High Country Home Builder’s Association has used this special time of year to put on its Home & Remodeling Exposition, and this year is no different. The H.C.H.B.A. is very pleased to bring its 16th Annual Home & Remodeling Exposition to Appalachian State’s Holmes Convocation Center on May 21,22.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Home and Remodeling Expo, it is a platform in which members of the home building profession can inform and interact with the general public in a one on one fashion. This allows for potential clients to meet construction industry professionals face to face rather than depending on word of mouth, or thumbing through the yellow pages. Additionally visitors to the Home and Remodeling Expo will be treated to informative seminars and demonstrations centered on the Building Industry, and cover such topics as new construction innovations, energy efficency and wind power just to name a few. Many Home show regulars will be making an appearance as well; the Boone Fire Department will be bringing its burn trailer back for another year to educate High Country residents on sprinkler systems and overall fire

prevention. The always popular nail driving competition will be in full swing again and Bandana’s Barbeque will be in attendance for all those who would like a bite to eat.

The High Country Home Builders Association is sure to have another hit on its hands with this year’s Expo. Just like in years past every possible step has been taken to ensure a smooth operation. The show itself which is free admission will start Friday May 21st at 1 p.m. and end Saturday May 22nd at 5 p.m. Shuttles service will be provided to ferry folks to and from the Expo. If you would like more information about this event please visit the High Country Home Builder’s web page at : highcountryhba.com

Calendar Of Events May 20, 2010 Third Thursday Lecture Series 4 pm Location: Martin House, downtown Blowing Rock May 21, 2010 Car Show 6-10pm Newland Pool Complex May 22, 2010 Night Of The Spoken Word Ashe Arts Center 7:30pm May 29, 2010 2nd Annual Herb Festival 9am - 5pm Banner Elk May 31,2010 Avery County Heritage Festival 10am-4pm Cranberry, NC

June 12, 2010 Coffee House Talent Night 7:30pm West Jefferson Methodist Church June 17,2010 Banner Elk Concert In The Park Banner Elk June 24, 2010 Banner Elk Concert In The Park Banner Elk June 26, 2010 Blood Sweat and Gears 7:30 am Location: Valle Crucis--Start June 26, 2010 Kiddo Fishing Derby Coffey Lake Beech Mountain June 30, 1010 Celebration On Riverwalk Newland

June 5, 2010 National Trails Day Volunteer Project Location: Grandfather Mountain

July 2, 2010 Scenic Summer Lift Rides Sugar Mountain

June 5, 2010 Shriner’s Parade Location: Main Street

July 2, 2010 Park Dance Location: Memorial Park

June 7, 2010 Monday Night Concert Series 7 pm Location: Broyhill Park

July 3, 2010 47th Roasting of The Hog Beech Mountain

June 10 - 13, 2010 Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show Saddlebred Location: Tate Show Grounds June 11, 2010 Sunset Stroll on Sunset Drive 5:30 - 8 pm Location: Blowing Rock June 12, 2010 Cool Five Run Beech Mountain

July 3, 2010 Seven Devils Safety Fest Seven Devils July 4, 2010 July 4th Fireworks Location: Tweetsie Railroad Calendar Of Events courtesy of www. blowingrock.com www.ashechamber.com Avery Chamber Of Commerce

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HomeGuide Discussions on and resources for the kitchen and bath, design and decor, outdoor living, and landscaping.

Rome Remodeling

By Staci Norris

Remodeling Rome

By Staci Norris

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 47

Remodeling requires patience, realistic thinking, and time, but the results can be amazing.

W

ith the shift in economic thinking came the shift from new construction to remodeling. Consumers once willing to build a second home are now spending less and opting to re-vamp their current living space. Most people hear the word “remodeling” and silently shudder. Sawdust flying, electrical wires strewn across the floor and let’s just face it, dirty men trampling in with work boots on the carpet you intend on keeping. There’s the unforeseen behind the walls mystery, and the questions about how that light switch could be moved to the opposite side of the room. Consumers especially shudder when they consider a kitchen remodel. Before you shy away from the possibilities, the simplicity of a kitchen remodel is all in the details.

Begin with a plan. You have a basic figure in your head of what you would like to spend, but in order to deduct whether or not this is realistic requires baby steps through the entire design process. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), defining your budget not only puts the remodel in perspective, but it prevents hasty and costly decisions later on in the project.

You must first decide on a contractor who will set forth a detailed contract in order to avoid mistakes and change orders in the end. Make sure you get estimates personally from electricians, plumbers, cabinet companies, and countertop manufacturers.

More often than not, contractors tend to give an allowance for these trades that is usually under budget. Actual quotes give a much more realistic approach to the whole remodel.

The NARI also suggests that as you take the steps through the design process you pay attention to how labor intensive your decisions are. This not only applies to building walls and expanding your kitchen into the dining room, but also in the layout of the kitchen itself. The most inexpensive design will be one that leaves appliances in their current location in the new layout. This eliminates the need for moving wires and plumbing. The small details in cabinetry are the details that cost money. Same height wall cabinets are more economical than staggered heights, and the interior components such as roll-out trays quickly tack on the Benjamin’s. Your kitchen designer should be able to provide you with ways to economically design your kitchen, giving you the look and functionality you desire that fits within your budget.

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“There is no perfect remodel, but careful planning, budgeting, and realistic decision making allows you to get through the process without pulling out the last hair on your head.�

“You can still get a beautiful kitchen making economically engineered decisions.”

When remodeling your kitchen pay attention to quality and value in the long run, not simply the price. Consider the durability of poorly constructed cabinetry with heavy wear and tear just over the span of five years. The whole purpose of this remodel is to choose the most durable, yet most aesthetically pleasing features while staying within budget.

Save money on things that can be easily updated later, without having to complete another remodel. This includes items like interior cabinet components like roll-out trays, spice pull-outs, and the biggiecountertops. Yes, granite is your ideal choice but if the cost forces you to choose it over the quality of your cabinets, you would be wise to consider installing 50 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

laminate tops for the time being, and installing the granite at a later date. With careful planning this is an easy update that requires nothing but uninstalling the laminate counters, and replacing them with a solid surface. If you want to get the most value for your dollar, make decisions based on ten years down the road, versus next week’s dinner party. You can still get a beautiful kitchen making “economically engineered” decisions.

There is no perfect remodel, but careful planning, budgeting, and realistic decision making allows you to get through the process without pulling out the last hair on your head. Don’t be afraid to get creative. Think of ways to create a

look you desire using simple construction techniques. The smallest of tasks, such as stripping wallpaper and applying a fresh coat of paint will take years off and provide a great canvas. Simplicity, paired with a few detailed must-haves will exude style and elegance. Start with quality, classic basics in your remodel and add details based on your functional needs and budgetary concerns. Don’t let yourself have bigger dreams than what your pocketbook agrees with. Take it one step at a time. Remodeling your kitchen requires patience, and realistic thinking, and time. Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Color

A reminder that colors aren’t bad. A recommendation to get empowered and add some color to your home.

Intuition

O

By Colleen Luntzel

ne minute you’re staring at your beige wall, hating every blasé beige inch of it. The next minute, unexpected inspiration sparks and… voila! In your mind’s eye, boring beige instantly transforms into Peacock Blue, Poppy Red or Dove Grey— from blurry bland to high definition dazzle.

There’s just something in you that wants—no--needs daring, bold color. You can feel it. You’ve squelched your color intuition for far too long and you know it. The problem is, you’re scared. Scared that vibrant color will look clownish in your living room--and who wants to live in a three ring circus, after all?

No… better to keep it safe and stay neutral—even if neutral is a little boring. Right?

No matter that your inner decorator wants out… never mind that every time you’re in your living room, a hazy veil of beige envelopes you, leaving you feeling, well, blah.

Defeated, you toddle into the kitchen for a snack.

Munching away, you glance down and notice even the crackers are beige and that’s when it hits you: You’ve got a serious case of pale--the no-color blahs.

Sound familiar? Come on; tell the truth, I know what I’m talking about. I’ve been there—lethargically munching away in a boring beige haze—desperately wanting to be set free, but not knowing how!

One day, when I couldn’t take it anymore, I screwed up my courage and busted out of blah. And like the dawning of a new day, my surroundings went from fuzzy, undefined passé to fantastic color clarity. Remarkably, I haven’t craved crackers since.

So… what do you think? Ready to get sprung from your own, lack-of-color, confinement? I know a few tricks of the trade that can help you break out!

First off, you’ll be happy to know that introducing vibrant

color into your home in a tasteful, sophisticated way isn’t as dangerous and daring as you might have imagined. Still, if the thought of painting entire walls in color leaves you cowering, you might be going at it from the wrong angle.

Instead, consider introducing color with accessories. Throw pillows, rugs, glassware, fresh flowers, painted furniture and upholstered pieces can splash bold hues across a room, canvassed against a neutral backdrop.

Speaking of neutral… this is good place to de-bunk a color conspiracy: My favorite definition of neutral is: assisting no side in a war. In other words, when speaking of color, your neutral backdrop mustn’t fight with the other colors in your room. But that doesn’t mean neutral is limited to beige or white! No… neutral might be soft sage, butter yellow, mocha cream, robin’s egg blue or even apricot. Your key to unlocking the confining door of neutral is to choose a backdrop color that is in harmony with your décor. Just take a good look at what you have to determine what color would be a complimentary addition to your space.

There! Feeling empowered? Go ahead, shake off the shackles of pale that have been holding you back, set your color intuition free and splash some living color around!

Who needs crackers, anyway?

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www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 55

oasis

at home

By Jamie Weyer

Custom Mica & Wood Products

Spring fever is in the air and homeowners have already placed bathroom remodels in the number one spot against all other home renovation projects this Spring season.

A

s the country continues to push through this economic slump, more and more homeowners are focusing their hard-earned dollars on remodeling projects to increase the value of their homes. Nowadays, it is more than just functionality that people are seeking.

Bathrooms are becoming an oasis, a private in-home retreat where one can escape to after a long, stressful day of work. Since many daily routines occur in this space, it seems logical to make it one of the most favored places in the home. According to recent surveys, bathrooms are the number one remodeling project in the country right now. Spring is the time of year for new life and rejuvenation so why not give new life to your bathroom this spring season? Try some of these small fixes to renew the look and feel of your bathroom while taking it easy on your budget.

VANITY INSANITY One of the main components of a bathroom is its cabinetry. This may consist of one or more vanity spaces each consisting of a cabinet, countertop, sink and faucet. It is important for the vanities in your bathroom to be aesthetically attractive since they are typically the focal point of the room.

You can give your existing cabinetry a quick facelift with a new paint job. Replacing door and drawer hardware is also a simple, inexpensive fix. Commonly used countertop materials like Formica have become so modernized that their newer finishes could almost be mistaken for granite. Now, you can have the look you crave at a fraction of the cost! Sinks and faucets can be found at bargain prices in local salvage yards or hardware stores. If you are in the market for new bathroom cabinetry, you may want to purchase an entire vanity ensemble including a cabinet, countertop, sink and faucet. These packages can be found at local kitchen and bath cabinetry dealers like Custom Mica & Wood Products. Antique cabinets are a hot trend right now, too. Check out antique and consignment shops for unique pieces, you never know when someone’s trash might become your treasure!

MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL… A mirror’s reflective properties enable it to enhance small spaces like bathrooms by creating an illusion of depth, which makes the room seem bigger. Not only are they decorative, they are also necessary for applying make-up, shaving, etc. making them a mustwww.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 57

Color trends show that blue and green palettes in bathrooms are increasingly popular due to the calming, spa-like effects they create in a space. Pairing vibrant colors like sapphire blue or bright aqua with crisp white accents achieves a cool, clean appearance.

Creamy beiges and neutrals provide a tasteful backdrop for bolder colors like oranges and reds. The warmth of neutrals also helps balance a room with mainly cooler hues like bright blues.

STORAGE SOLUTIONS Storage is almost always an issue in bathrooms because of the limited space they offer. Most of the time there is some cabinetry already in the room and maybe a built-in linen closet. However, not all bathrooms are that lucky… have in bathroom spaces.

You can update your mirrors by building a wood frame or buying one unfinished from a craft store. Finish the wood with a stain or paint to coordinate with your décor. You may reuse existing pieces of mirror if they are in good condition and are the right size for space. Check consignment shops for decorative pieces and frames. A mirror can also serve as a great piece of art on a wall needing some attention!

ADD A SPLASH OF COLOR Painting is the quickest way to enhance the overall look of a room and create the biggest impact with color. If you’re intimidated by large amounts of color, try incorporating smaller doses using brightly colored accessories like rugs, towels, and pieces of art. These decorative items are inexpensive and can be changed as often as each season depending on the owner’s taste!

Take advantage of every space possible! Check walls between studs to see if drywall niches may be added.

These can provide shelving space, practical and pleasing to the eye.

Add cabinet space! Wall cabinets and medicine cabinets may be ordered to match most existing cabinetry. Use wall space over commode and walls on sides of vanities for these types of pieces or add shelving units for extra storage space. Think vertically! Use hooks or towel bars on the backs of doors for hanging several towels and robes. Stay organized! De-clutter the space as much as possible. If you’re very limited on space, baskets may help as an attractive storage solution that can sit on a countertop or floor.

Give everything its own special place and put it back when you’re done with it!

For more design ideas and help transforming your home, contact Jamie or Alex at Custom Mica & Wood Products...828.963.4109

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 59

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Planning To Sell?

Get a better price & sell quicker with DeClutter Diva’s sage advice on staging your home

D

By Breton Frazier

eciding to sell your home is a huge step toward a different life. Suddenly it’s not if you’re moving out and on, but when. Allow some time for the process of getting your house ready to list and show. If you’ve lived there many years, a couple of weeks isn’t realistic. Give yourself 10 days of preparation for every 5 years living there. If you’ve really accumulated lots of possessions or merged households or inherited furniture or are storing things for your children, set aside more time.

going to need one anyway as a holding place for all the boxes you’ll pack up until you ship them.)

Pace yourself and keep your expectations reasonable so you don’t feel overwhelmed. My clients are often surprised that moving may give rise to feelings of fear and loss. If you understand that upheaval and chaos often occur before change, it’s easier to accept.

Most closets and drawers are stuffed to overflowing. Potential buyers will be opening them and looking inside. A desirable home has plentiful drawer and closet space. So you need to remove everything but 30%!

Your move will be more complicated if you don’t have another home to move into yet.

If you know you’ll be going to a smaller space, you want to pay to ship only those items you treasure and that will fit! So now is the time to purge. Why keep 3 bedrooms of furniture if you’ll only have 2?

It’s hard to let go of things that we feel attached to. We identify with them and they are important to us. But do you really want to take that old beat up, worn out whatever? Wouldn’t a fresh start with some new-to-you pieces give you a lift?

They needn’t be expensive. Used furniture shops and thrift stores are great for bargains. And it’s possible that your lifestyle and needs in your new surroundings may be different.

Once the excess furniture is removed, rearrange to allow traffic to flow 360 degrees around, if possible. Moving pieces away from the walls into the room will make the space look bigger and draw focus to the architectural features, especially the windows.

And do be sure the purpose of a room is clear. You may use it as an office/exercise/guest room, but choose one function and store everything that doesn’t reinforce that use.

The same 30% goes for what is visible on kitchen counters, coffee tables, walls, bathroom counters, bedside tables – any surface, regardless of whether the object is decorative or functional. Buyers want to imagine their possessions in the house they’re considering. So if your family photos, mementos, brica-brac, framed degrees and trophies obliterate the walls and surfaces, it’s impossible to see beyond them.

Any thing that competes with seeing the house needs to go. If you have a twinge of doubt, pack it away.

And when it comes to paintings and wall hangings, less is really more. You may consider that hand-hooked rug from Bzanistan priceless, but to your prospective

Declutter and stage your home so it will attract a topnotch realtor, show better and appeal to a greater number of buyers.

You’ll get the highest price and sell it quicker, even in a sluggish market.

buyer, it could look like jumbled pieces of cloth. Store your bazaar treasures and travel souvenirs. By the way, you’ll need to patch those unsightly holes where paintings and art have been removed. Your local home store can tell you all you need to know about spackling and painting. Hopefully you have paint left over which matches your various wall colors.

Here’s an easy rule of thumb: think 30%. Most of us easily have 30% more furniture than looks best in a room. Your home will look more spacious and open if you will remove 30% of the furniture in it. No, it can’t be piled up in the garage. Prospective buyers want that space to hold all their things and will be looking for a large one. You’ll probably need a storage unit. (You’re

If there are towering bookcases crammed with volumes, now is the time to prune your collection. (See my article “Out With the Old” in the winter 2010 issue about disposing of and donating things.) Think about putting those book shelves into storage. It will open up the room. If you decide to keep them out, minimize the number of books and arrange each shelf sparingly with other

62 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Building Beautiful Custom Homes in the High Country Since 1998 Unlimited Licensed Commercial and Residential

For more information: BurchellConstruction@mac.com • 828.297.2959 375 Highway 105 Ext. Suite 4, Boone NC, 28607

decorative objects. Decorating magazines are full of ideas.

You want your home to look well cared for and lovingly maintained. So eliminate “make do” situations. The microwave on a TV tray telegraphs a lack of kitchen counter space. Get those pesky repairs you’ve been postponing done, too.

You only have once to make a good first impression. Take a look at the approach to your house as a first time visitor would.

Are there stains on your driveway, address numbers falling off your mail box, scuff marks on your front door? HGTV has helpful hints on curb appeal. Make things inviting with a well-tended yard and blooming flowers. Outdoor living areas: porches, decks, balconies and patios add value to your home. Keep furniture and planters to a minimum. The BBQ grill needs to go into the garage or storage.

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to get your home pristine. Clean, clean, clean inside and out! (See my article about cleaning, “Here They Come, Ready or Not” in the fall 2009 issue.) Include the oven, stove top, fridge, washer and dryer in your deep cleaning. You can conserve valuable energy by hiring professionals.

Nothing devalues a house like dirt. Go for squeaky clean.

Do avoid overpowering plug-in air fresheners. And speaking of smells, you’ll need to dispose of your household pets

while the house is being shown. Will you really want to take Rover for a walk every time your realtor calls or during all day open houses? Find a place to stow food/ water bowls, leashes, toys and litter boxes.

Cat dander is particularly bothersome for allergy sufferers. And a stream of people in and out can upset your animals.

Once your house is truly decluttered and staged, “shop” for a realtor. Invite several to walk through singly. Try to be open minded and not take their comments personally. Realtors know how buyers react and what they want. A realtor may be reluctant to take on a house he/she knows won’t show well. If the purple bedroom needs to be a neutral color, be willing to make the change.

Spending a little could be worth a lot. Aim for main stream, the broadest possible appeal. The goal of home staging isn’t to make it impersonal or sterile but neutral: a blank palette, if you will. Our house is our largest asset for most of us.

Creating an idealized, streamlined version could earn you big money and that means a fresh start elsewhere.

Email your organizing questions to theDeClutterDiva@gmail.com. For more information, visit www.DeClutterDiva. vpweb.com.

Breton Frazier, the DeClutter Diva, lives in St. Augustine, Florida, and works as a personal organizer.

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 65

An Enertia Update

L

ast summer High Country Home Magazine presented “The Greenest House,” an overview of the newest sustainability technology in building construction. The Enertia Log Home was build with the goal to eliminate the homes dependency on the grid. From the rooftop photovoltaic and solar water panels to the thermal inertia temperature control, the house has not only met, but exceeded expectations.

The name of the home “Enertia” is spelled with an “e” rather than an “i” to represent energy and the environment.

Although Enertia homes are a little more expensive to build, a combination of the thermal technology and solar panels can reduce energy consumption as much as 80% over a conventional home.

Each year the average American home emits about 23,000 pounds of carbon dioxide and spends over $1,500 on utility bills; however made from 100% renewable wooden logs, Enertia homes

use the power of the sun and the earth to reduce these toxins.

Johnny Cooke, owner of Sustainable Green Builders of the Blue Ridge and builder of the home, is proud of the construction’s ability to function as a self-sustaining unit. With high hopes for the South’s green revolution, Johnny used the Enertia Log Home technology in Forest Glen Subdivision, on the outskirts of Boone.

“The home not only met my expectations,” Johnny said. “It far exceeded them. We did not turn on the heat in the house at all this past winter, and it stayed a comfortable temperature inside.”

With record-breaking snowfall and frigid temperatures, how did the Enertia Log Home remain energy efficient? How is a house created that can actively heat and cool itself by the sun and the earth?

Explore the benefits of Sustainable Green Builders’ Enertia Home

By Katie Henderson The sun space of the home serves as the engine of the house. In the winter time, when the sun is arching across the southern sky, it is fills the space with light and warmth. As the sunlight warms up the floor tiles and the log walls, the heat rises, moves up into the arch of the house, and drops down through the air shaft on the north side of the house. The heated air then cycles down through the basement, comes up through the vents, and back into the sunroom. As the air continues to circulate, it continues to heat up the timbers, so at night, all of the heat is released on the inside of the house, keeping owners nice and cozy. The home is heated and cooled in this manner, however to heat the home there also is a back-up system in place. The back-up systems include solar water radiant heat, a small gas blast boiler, and a wood stove.

In the summer, the house keeps cool by venting hot air out of the house through the attic and cycling in the cooler basement air. The cavity in the roof

provides an escape so the heated air can travel completely out of the house.

The entire exterior of the house is built from Southern Yellow Pine logs which are farmed in the south. This wood possesses excellent thermal retention properties known as resin or tar. Because of this characteristic, energy can be stored in the logs over night and released over an eight to ten hour period. Southern Yellow Pine is being renewed at a rate of one and a half times its current use and as the trees grow, they filter out the carbon in the atmosphere, while generating oxygen in the mean time.

As the trend towards green innovation continues to grow in the High Country, Johnny Cooke hopes to see an increase in Enertia homes across the local area.

With a blazing summer sun and high elevations, the North Carolina High Country makes the ideal location for an Enertia Log Home of your dreams!

68 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

DesignProfiles Explore the beautiful homes and communities of the High Country

A Turtle Creek Home’s

Southern

Charm

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 71

Built by Doug McGuire Construction, this Turtle Creek home features a southern feel and artistic architecture.

By Katie Henderson

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Photos By Stefan Olson

estled in the rolling hills outside downtown Boone, in the perfectly landscaped Turtle Creek neighborhood, rests a truly livedin home, by Doug McGuire Construction.

Home to a family of six, the home was designed to be elegant, yet comfortable, architecturallyartistic with a Southern feel.

“The homeowners found a house in Atlanta, Georgia that they really liked; it had a southern charm to it. They took pictures of it, and had their own home drawn in a similar fashion,” Doug said. “We used their pictures as a reference throughout the whole project.”

The outside of the home is all cedar shakes to give the siding a natural look and to use all natural materials.

Trimmed in custom wood trim, by HSH Dream Home Modeling in Boone, and accented with stucco entryways and cultured stone arches, the home has a dual element tone to it, drawing the eye of all who passes by.

The home’s entrance is truly inviting with a hand-laid flagstone walkway, and custom alder front door. Gas lanterns by each side of the door, as well as overhead, provide a warm and comfortable glow.

Accenting the wood and stone elements of the outside, are sections of copper standing seam roof and round guttering, both of which are quickly becoming popular trends in the construction industry. The round guttering has a similar copper look as the roofing, however is made from other materials to save costs.

Off of the open back lot, a field stone patio provides the perfect place for family barbeques and relaxing evenings.

Upon entering the unique home, one is welcomed by warm wall tones, custom features, and consistent designs. The main living area features five-inch white oak flooring, which extends throughout the majority of the home. Custom cabinetry accents either side of the stone fireplace, where a large alder beam serves as a mantle. A tongue and grove painted ceiling, with Douglas Fir beams, parallels the mantle and provides an added warmth to the ten-foot ceilings.

Adjacent to the living space is another one of the family’s favorite resting places: an elegant study, with 72 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

manufactured stone gas fireplace and custom modeling. In order to accentuate the height of the ceilings, a wide modeling at top and baseboard were used; this theme continues throughout other rooms on the main floor.

The master suite provides a place of relaxation for the homeowners, with bright natural light from the bay windows and a luxurious private bath. The master bathroom features heated tile floors, granite counter tops, an oversized ** tub, a walk in shower, and an adjacent walk-in closet. Large enough to be its own room entirely, the master closet features custom shelving space and an enclosed laundry space for added convenience.

In keeping with the consistency in the design, knotty alder doors were used throughout the entire home, eight foot doors on the ground floor and ** ft on the upper level.

The upstairs of the home is every child’s dream come true.

Individual bedrooms and bath rooms for each of the children offer each child the opportunity to display his or her personality.

From Appalachian State football and skiing, to pink walls and 74 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

custom window seats, the bedrooms show the creative nature of the home’s design. Colorful tile work and granite counter tops are consistent throughout the several upstairs bathrooms.

Connecting each side of the upstairs is a large study and library for the children. With a computer desk, toy bins, and book shelves, the space was created to give them a space of their own to do homework and relax.

Through the finished attic space, is a guest room and storage space that the family lovingly calls the “F.R.O.G.” or “Finished Room Over the Garage.”

This large room provides a place for company to relax and extra storage for the busy family. Below is a three car garage and mud area, which features a built in panty, slate floors, and custom cubbies for the children to store their coats and book bags.

The adjoining kitchen provides a large space for the family to enjoy meals and conversation. A painted tongue and grove ceiling matches flows in from the living room, and semi-custom cabinets and a built in refrigerator provide kitchen storage. The cabinetry, installed by New River Building Supply’s Design Center, is manufactured, however, was designed for this

specific home.

The home’s basement is every child’s dream, with a carpeted common space, home theatre, and an oversized play room with built in basketball goals.

Doug McGuire chose to stay local with the majority of materials in the home, including modeling by Dream Homes Modelings, Inc in Deep Gap, Hurd windows from Foscoe, tile work by Anthony Hester, a sound system by Audio Video Systems of Boone, and a heating system installed by Edmisten Heating & Cooling of Boone.

Every inch of the 7,500 square foot home was perfectly designed with the family’s needs in mind. “It is a well laid out house,” Doug said. “It is really functional and is probably one of the most functional houses we have done in years. It is a good sized home and very livable and comfortable.”

Like every home he builds, Doug McGuire was sure to maintain a close relationship with the owners to ensure every inch was to their complete satisfaction. “I like this whole house,” Doug said. “It was one of my favorite houses to do and the homeowners were super to work with and get along with. That was a big plus for us- having great homeowners.”

76 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Rustic Elegance With

Tom Eggers showcases two beautiful homes he built in the Glens Of Grandfather and introduces his new company Tom Eggers Construction.

T

om Eggers, owner of Tom Eggers Construction is a native to the mountains of western North Carolina. He has over fifteen years of experience in the construction industry. As founder of E and K Construction, a High Country construction company whose reputation precedes it’s self, Tom dealt with some of the best communities, building partners, and associates in the area and was held to a higher standard. This higher standard of quality, efficiency, and amazing customer satisfaction has transferred with Tom to his new company, Tom Eggers Construction.

Since forming Tom Eggers Construction, Tom has been working diligently to find ways to lower his overhead and make building a home more affordable for his customers. Tom’s hard work and determination to bring affordability to his clients came with one caveat, that he would not sacrifice quality at any cost. Now, with Tom Eggers Construction you can expect a well built and beautiful home at a newer and more affordable rate.

Tom Eggers feels strongly about all of his new goals with his new company, Tom Eggers Construction, and believes his new methodology can better satisfy his customers.

Lot 37 features beautiful poplar bark accents, vaulted ceilings, rustic alder and pecky pine interior details, and a beautiful floor to ceiling Tennessee Fiedstone fireplace

Tom Eggers Construction’s homes can be found in some of the best communities in Boone, Blowing Rock, and Banner Elk from Headwaters and Bear Creek At Linville to the Glens of Grandfather. Tom Eggers Construction specializes in a variety of construction services and holds an unlimited license. Under their unlimited license Tom Eggers Construction is able to provide its customers with a wide range of services including residential construction, remodels, and light commercial work. Tom Eggers Construction can build in a variety of styles from Adirondack and rustic to log, timber frame, traditional and 80 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

contemporary and all sizes from small cabins to larger homes.

Tom Eggers has built great relationships with the best partners in the business. This translates in the best workmanship in the area and guarantees you will be satisfied with your home or other building project. When combining this with tremendous customer service that includes a belief that the lines of communication between the customer and the builder should remain open the results are astounding. In the end the customer receives quality

The owners can relax in this beautiful sauna and steam room at Lot 37

Tom Eggers Construction builds the following types of homes: • • • • • • •

construction that more than meets their expectations.

Within the beautiful mountain community of the Glens Of Grandfather, you can find two beautiful homes built by Tom Eggers including Lot 37 and Lot 33.

Lot 37 in the Glens Of Grandfather community is a gorgeous home

featuring some of the best detail work of any house in the High Country.

The home is a five bedroom, five bathroom, and two half bathrooms. It features pecky pine interior trim and poplar bark for the interior accents.

The kitchen showcases stainless steel appliances, rustic alder cabinets, and granite countertops. Quality can be seen throughout the house from the beam work made from Crawford

Adirondack Contemporary Log Homes Timberframe Traditional Clubhouses Townhomes

“Tom Eggers far exceeded my expectations without exceeding our agreed upon budget. Tom Eggers sets the standard that all contractors should aspire to.”

828.898.3210 or 828.898.4000 www.TomEggersConstruction.com

beams and truss beams. The ceilings are vaulted from 18 to 20

feet with two real masonry fireplaces made out of Tennessee field stone. Lot 37 embraces all of Tom Eggers Construction’s ideals in building a home.

Lot 33 in the Glens Of Grandfather is another extraordinary design from Tom Eggers Construction. This home has some very unique and interesting details as well. The home at Lot 33 in the Glens Of Grandfather has four bedrooms and five bathrooms. Rustic alder trim, ceilings, and doors run throughout. Mtech hardware, custom cabinetry, and Viking appliances accessorize this homes kitchen. Both the owners of the home and their guests can relax in the beautiful sauna and take advantage of the steam showers in the bathrooms.

This home is a true timber frame featuring intricate vaulted 82 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

ceilings, amazing fireplaces, and Crawford beams. The exterior of Lot 33 features poplar bark.

Words do not describe the beauty of Tom Eggers Construction’s two homes in the Glens of Grandfather, but as you see from the photos both homes are full of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Tom Eggers Construction does not just build new construction, they can also help with your remodeling and renovation needs from kitchen and bath remodels to full additions. Tom Eggers can also help with any light commercial projects and has built many beautiful town homes and clubhouses in some of the best communities. Call Tom Eggers Construction at 828-898-3210 or 828-898-4000 or visit them online at www.

TomEggersConstruction.com.

Tom Eggers Construction has its unlimited license and can help you with all the following needs: Residential

Remodel

Light Commercial

Photo by Eric Morely

828.898.3210 or 828.898.4000 www.TomEggersConstruction.com

The

Adler

Lodge

This beautiful Valle lodge was built by Logs America to fit the needs of a designer and builder.

By Katie Henderson

84 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

T

he peaceful setting of the North Carolina High Country has always been a getaway for Gary Adler and friends. Though he has enjoyed renting a couple of the available cabins in the area, none of them felt quite like home. In looking for a more permanent solution, Gary called on local realtor Jim Neustadt to find a home in the High Country; together they discovered a beautiful 14-acre track in the popular area of Valle Crucis.

Although Gary is a designer and builder, and has constructed many residences in his home state of Florida, his hectic schedule didn’t permit him to function in this capacity for his own home. After interviewing several log home suppliers and builders, Gary chose local manufacturer, Log Homes of America, to supply his kiln dried Eastern White Pine D Log Package. Gary also selected Logs America, LLC, owned and operated by general contractor Nicole Robinson, as his builder.

Nicole regards Gary’s choice as quite an honor. As a well-respected designer, builder, and founder of Adler Design Associates, Gary would prove to be a tough customer; however, with years in experience of building in the mountains, and developing a great team of trade partners, Nicole was confident to accept the challenge.

The design for Gary’s home would be far from ordinary; clearly, this would not be a standard log cabin. A mountain lodge- a home away from home- was the dream that Gary wanted to create. One of the most premiere views of Valle Crucis is seen from the location, and the home was specifically designed to take advantage of the gorgeous view from every room. Located on the steepest www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 85

location of the property, the construction was challenging to work on; however, the slope created additional living spaces that would not have been available otherwise.

The 5,800 square foot home has four bedrooms, four and a half baths, and nearly 2,000 square feet of exterior living space on its wonderful covered porches and decks. There is a classic screened sleeping porch for those summer nights when visitors cannot fathom to come inside from the beautiful High Country sunset.

Incorporating Gary’s design elements made the home flow perfectly. A double sided fireplace divides the breathtaking great room and a library-style sitting room. The right wing includes 86 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

a gourmet kitchen and dining area, with a simple pantry and powder room. The left wing provides privacy for the master suite, as well as a separate laundry facilities. Guests enjoy a choice of loft bedroom with a view of the valley and intricate overhead beam work, or large bedroom suites on the lower levels with access to the tremendous deck spaces.

Custom details are the key element that takes this home another step above the rest. The tall ceilings, eight foot doors, handscraped floors, stone and slate features, and timber elements throughout are just a few of Gary’s signature details. The dark walnut stain was applied to nearly every element, to bring forward all of the beautiful grain of the wood.

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“Every job has two purposes: one to be the home of someone’s dreams, and the other to build your reputation”

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The final touches of the home were added with Gary’s design and decorating details. Each of Gary’s visits to the High Country brings yet another detail that transforms the house into a home. Nicole says that her main goal for Logs America, LLC is to “create a spot that folks can call home and that they want to bring friends and family to share it with.”

Working with clients who live out of town is Nicole’s key specialties.

The staff of Logs America spends a great deal of time getting to know the client, in order to understand what is important to them and their level of involvement. Weekly updates are provided, by phone or email, and include photos of work completed or in progress, schedule of accomplishments, any delayed work, weather issues, and plans for the upcoming week.

In order to make the home custom to the owner, some decisions need to be made by the client during the process. Nicole finds ways to include clients by occasionally assigning homework, to pick out colors, fixtures, flooring, etc; this allows clients to stay involved without being overwhelmed with decisions. These selections can be made from their location or during a visit here with our local supply partners. Building a home can be stressful, but Nicole’s vision it to keep the process streamlined and enjoyable for all clients.

While every job has its hiccups, the small glitches never compromise the quality of a Logs America home. Nicole says that she is proud of every project that she has been involved in and takes pride in her employees and partners. “A trade partner recently commented that every job has two purposes: one to be the home of someone’s dreams, and the other to build your reputation” Nicole said. “That is a motto we can all work by.” www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 89

Farm House The

By Katie Henderson

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Lehmann Construction’s craftsmanship is exemplified by this marvelous 7,000 square foot home in the luxury community, The Farm at Banner Elk

P

aul Lehmann, a graduate of Appalachian State University, learned from the best that the High Country has to offer.

Developing his own luxurious style, Paul started his construction company, Lehmann Construction Inc., in 1997 with the mission to build the highest quality homes at very reasonable prices.

Paul’s personal motto with his company is affordable elegance high quality dream homes at a reasonable price. “I’ve been building homes in the High Country area for over ten years,” Paul said. “I look forward to building many more in the years to come.”

One of the premier examples of Paul’s magnificent craftsmanship is a five bedroom, 5 bath home in the distinguished mountain community, The Farm at Banner Elk. The Farm has consistently been named one of the Best North Carolina Mountain Communities and has unique topography features, including rolling hillsides, majestic mountains, and pleasant meadows, pastures and ponds. Meticulously blending home sites and native vegetation, century-old giant hemlocks mix with large thickets of mountain laurels to provide a natural setting for carefully planned properties. The Farm is a unique environment fully integrating a private lifestyle with a uniquely rustic flavor.

Paul and his experienced staff have constructed nine homes in this exquisite community; however, one stands out marvelously against www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 91

all others. The home stands at 7,000 square feet of heated space, with an additional 600 square feet in porches and decks, offering magnificent views of the Blue Ridge for miles.

Every detail of the home reflects master craftsmanship, from the rich wood tones gracing vaulted ceilings, to intricate detailing and custom designs. Exquisite custom stone fireplaces accent the outdoor patio and main living room areas. From floor to ceiling, the custom stone fireplaces provide a focal point for these spaces and a cozy gathering place for family and friends. “The unique design features logs, doors, decks, and fireplaces,” Paul said. “The utilization of the space and very attractive exterior are my favorite aspects of the home.”

The home also includes a billiards and bar area, exercise room, and play room.

Chef style kitchens are standard in all of Paul’s homes and this house is far from an exception. Tongue and groove ceilings, custom cabinetry, and various wood work throughout, provides the space with a unique look and feel. Paul is a firm believer that living in the lap of luxury doesn’t mean you cannot feel at home, and this kitchen space is an excellent example of that theme.

With master craftsmanship, attention to every detail, and maximum use of living space, Lehmann Construction transformed the house into a warm and inviting home. “Creating a warm feeling in a large 92 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Lehmann Construction p4

home can be difficult, but we have done it with this one,” Paul said. “You look around the home and the more you see, the more you realize how unique it really is.”

Paul is a firm believer that the outdoor living space should be an extension of the inside of every home, and at the same time exist harmoniously with the natural environment. With this in mind, the outdoor space was created to reflect warmth and relaxation, combining wood, stone, and other natural elements.

Lehmann Construction Inc. is a highly sought after custom home builder in the High Country, famous for combining custom building experience and elegant features while always maintaining the natural environmental surroundings the homes are built upon. This blend of construction experience and building expertise makes Lehmann Construction one of the most successful custom builders in the entire High Country. He is a requested builder at some of the area’s most prestigious developments and communities.

This spacious home is exemplary of luxurious living in the High Country without sacrificing convenience and comfort. For more information about Lehmann Construction, Inc. and this specific home, call (828) 898-3564 or visit their website at http://www.lehmanncustomhomes.com.

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www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 95

River Elk

Retreat

M

ike Smith of Mike Smith Builders, LLC has been providing custom construction and remodeling to the High Country for nine years. Preferring to build only a few homes per year, with no more than two homes under construction at once, Mike and his experienced staff is always available to homeowners for every phase of construction, ensuring a 100% quality home. It is because of his focus on quality and attention to detail that Mike Smith Builders had a home featured in Mountain Home Magazine in Spring and Fall of 2007, as well as receiving a nomination for 2009 Equipment Worlds Contractor of the Year.

96 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Mike Smith, of Mike Smith Builders put his hard earned time and effort into building this masterpiece.

By Katie Henderson

Born and raised in the High Country, Mike is a loyal and dedicated local business owner in Boone. With honesty and integrity at the forefront of all business operations, Mike has established a company with hard working values and ethics, and the ability to do whatever it takes to make a magnificent structure. “God has blessed me with the ability to build in such a challenging geographic area,” Mike said, “and has equally blessed me with wonderful homeowners, some of which are builders and developers themselves.”

Using the same sub-contractor base since his establishment in 2001, Mike is fully confident that every job will not only meet,

but exceed the homeowner’s dreams. “I believe that if someone is going to put their hard-earned money into their ‘dream home,’ I am going to equally put my hard earned time and effort into making sure their dreams come true,” Mike said.

It is because of his personal nature and proven experience that Mike has been chosen to build numerous homes in Elk River, Linville Ridge, and other mountain areas. One home in particular stands out as a true work of art by Mike. Bradley Dowdy, also a Boone local, was the main architect of the home.

A field stone portacache and custom alder front door provides www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 97

an elegant entrance to the 9,665 square foot home. The great room combines elegant luxury with a feeling of comfort and relaxation. Walnut floors that continue throughout the upstairs rooms of the home are accented by a variety of stone and wood elements, and custom design.

The master suite features unique elements to make the space truly customized for the owners. With a small kitchenette and laundry room included in the space, the room is a getaway within 98 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

the High Country retreat.

Mike’s favorite aspect of the house is the kitchen, because of its convenient layout and contemporary color scheme. Granite countertops, faux finishing, distinctive Viking stove range, built in coffee maker, and painted and finished wood cabinets not only shows off the distinctive characteristics of the home, but also provides added luxury to the owners.

The several hundred square foot outdoor deck space is a showcase of unique timber framing and a distinctively designed stairwell that leads to the lower levels of the porch. Accessibly from every floor of the home, the space features iron balusters, skylights on the covered terrace, flagstone flooring on all levels, and built in grills next to the Virginia field stone fireplace. Other outside materials of the home include cedar siding and cedar shake panel on the hip and ridge roof The home features five fireplaces, including the indoor and outdoor space, a formal dining room, downstairs recreation room, and wine cellar. In the downstairs space, guests can enjoy a custom bar, customized with pine, natural stone tile backsplash, and granite countertops. The adjacent wine cellar features a stone floor, and alder wood built in storage. A stain glass window displays the family’s shield of arms. Also included in the ground floor of the house is a billiard room and additional seating area.

100 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

Following his philosophy of a custom-made home, with complete quality guaranteed, Mike’s masterpiece in Elk River was a combination of years of experience, an exellent team of subcontractors, and 100% customer satisfaction. For more information on Mike Smith, please visit http://www. mikesmithbuilders.com or call (828) 297-7528.

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •101

Out House of the

This section is dedicated to showcasing all the reasons why people choose to build beautiful homes in the High Country. “Out Of The House” is your seasonal guide to exploring the wonderful and unique places this area has to offer.

A Grandfather Of A Trail

The mountain that turns city slickers into nature enthusiasts

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •103

T

he Grandfather Trail in the backcountry of Grandfather Mountain in Linville, NC is wellknown for making boys into men and turning city slickers into nature enthusiasts. The 2.4 mile trail (just under 5 miles round-trip) puts a hiker’s strength and nerves to the test.

The Grandfather Trail is an upper mountain ridge trail of astonishing variety, running in and out of winddwarfed spruce and fir, across or around rock walls and pinnacles, and into open spaces with views of mountains unfurling in every direction. The jumbled-up, rocky features of this trail are so massive and distinct that they appear to have cropped up by mistake, then decided to hang around for another millennia or two.

The route follows the crest of Grandfather Mountain from the Hiker’s Parking Area out 2.4 miles to Calloway Peak, Grandfather’s highest point at 5,946 feet. It was along this trail two centuries ago that noted French explorer

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and botanist Andre Michaux broke into song thinking he had arrived at the highest point in North America. A century later, famed naturalist John Muir was inspired to describe the sight as “the face of all Heaven come to earth.”

The pace on the trail is often deliberate.

There are chutes where progress is handover-hand and some extra steep sections where hikers use in-place cables and ladders. These ladders test the endurance of a person, both physically and mentally.

Weak-knee moments are very common on the trail, but when such a feeling is overcome the hiker is met with the reward of endless views and a real feeling of accomplishment.

Grandfather is a rugged mountain and this trail is its pinnacle so hikers must be prepared for weather that could change at any moment. Sturdy boots, food, water, and first aid supplies are all necessary equipment.

The starting point of the Grandfather Trail is located inside the Grandfather attraction. The entrance fee into the park

is $15 per adult and $7 per child ages 4-12. All proceeds from sale of tickets go toward caring for and presenting Grandfather Mountain in a manner that inspires good stewardship in others.

Hikers that park inside the attraction must follow the posted closing time and are not allowed to park their car inside the park overnight.

The Grandfather Trail can also be accessed from the Profile Trail (3.1 miles) or Daniel Boone Scout Trail (3 miles).

The Profile Trailhead is located on NC 105, 0.7 miles north of the intersection with NC 184. Hikers wanting to hike the Daniel Boone Scout Trail should park at Boone Fork Parking Area at milepost 299.9 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. From the Boone Fork area, hikers follow the Tanawha Trail south to connect with the Daniel Boone Scout Trailhead. There is no charge for accessing these two offmountain trailheads, as they are inside Grandfather Mountain State Park.

For more information please visit www. grandfather.com

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •105

Hawksnest Zipline A Sucess

10 cables including two mega ziplines and 10 cables are the reason for the sucess.

O

pen year-round and attracting sell-out crowds during periods of heavy tourist traffic.

Hawksnest Resort’s popular zipline, located atop Seven Devils, is fun for the whole family.

In fact, many families book again and again. Customers of all ages zip over the trees and across wide-open valleys at thrilling speeds. The resort, famous for its snow tubing in winter, has the largest zipline course in the Eastern U.S. Gliding through the air with ease appears trouble-free at Hawksnest Zipline.

The tour progresses in length and speed.

Professional guides accompany each group of riders, providing advice and safety tips along the way. According to the guides, the first-timer’s tentative step off tower number one into nothingness is soon replaced with their exclamations of “whoopee.” The learning curve is quick, the guides said.

The 1.5-mile zipline course has 10 cables including two super or mega ziplines-industry language for very long ziplines, reaching heights of more than 150 feet high. Another section of the course takes the rider through deep woods and has an enchanting, swinging, footbridge suspended over a rushing creek.

When comparing prices of other ziplines in the Southeast, customers will discover that Hawksnest offers a great value. They are competitively priced lower than other smaller zipline operations offering more value for the family’s dollar.

Customers are encouraged to call ahead for reservations. Tours begin at 10:00 a.m.

There must be at least two people in a party to make a reservation. Children must be at least five-years-old to participate. Call 828-963-6561.

For more information link to: www.hawksnestzipline.com

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •109

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112 114 ••www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com High Country Home Magazine • www.homeresourcecarolina.com

TheMarketplace ProductsYou A section featuring the coolest local products, real estate for sale, and a business directory of services and business cards.

NeedSummer2010 Stony Brooke Sofa Table

Made of Reclaimed Barn Wood Individually Hand-Crafted in the U.S.A. Highlights the Wood’s Natural Character Custom Sizes and Pieces Available Find it at: The Cabin Store 866.610.5647 www.thecarolinacabinstore.com

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www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com • 115

Products You Need Windy Stables Bunk Bed

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116 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

2 Door Lodge Cabinet:

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Firemagic Aurora Series Find it at: Wallace Propane (828) 297-1115 www.wallacepropane.com

Black and Decker Black and Decker Electric Chainsaw Lopper Find it at: Sears Hometown Store (828) 264-7327

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •119

The Brokerage

A mountain retreat in a private gated Reynolds signature community. Every comfort in mind for the discerning buyer. Features include long range views, great room with huge stone fireplace and timbered ceilings, 4 large bedrooms, 4 full baths, 3 half baths, master suite with fireplace in the sitting area, chef’s kitchen with Viking appliances, outside fireplace, billiard room, indoor grill room with bar area for entertaining, theater room & wine cellar to be finished out by new owner. Information on club amenities and road paving available.

Contact: Weichert, Realtors Phone: 828-260-1381 Website: www.NCmtnHouses.com

Gorgeous new log home by Pioneer Log & Timber Frame. 3 bedroom suites, custom cabinetry, granite, stone and beautiful outdoor spaces add luxury to your mountain retreat. 3 stone fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, large windows allow plenty of light and views of Grandfather Mountain. Convenient and easy access to everything the High Country has to offer. $635,000. PRICED TO SELL! Contact: Advanced Realty Phone: 828-264-5111 Website: www.AdvancedRealtyBoone.com

120 • www.HighCountryHomeMagzine.com

Amazing custom log home, a/k/a, "The Bear Cave Lodge"! Custom features throughout - stunning see-through stone fireplace in vaulted living room, gourmet kitchen, large 3-season porch with wood burning fireplace. Phenomenal decking with hot tub, gas torches and view of cave! This is the quintessential mountain retreat! $1,680,000.MLS#87653 Contact: Advance Realty Phone: 828-264-5111 Website: www.AdvancedRealtyBoone.com

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www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •121

The Services

122 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •123

Final Thoughts

Where is

Home?

W

By Judi Beck

riters and readers gather in Vancouver, British Columbia’s Granville Island every October to glean insights from a startlingly diverse array of mostly Canadian writers. Though, most Americans can’t even think of a Canadian writer, there are many of which we’re familiar; Margaret Atwood (The Handmaid’s Tale, Alias Grace), Michael Ondaatje (The English Patient), Douglas Coupland, Arthur Hailey (Airport) and Alistair MacLeod (No Great Mischief) to mention a few.

we often refer to ourselves as “citizens of the world” because our work travels with us—and wherever we go, Mindy goes. As my two closest companions, home is wherever they are, I told myself. This definition satisfied me for the time being. Sigh.

My sister, Barb, calls Vancouver home—so I have the luxury of free digs when I attend the annual conference. While there last October, I had the pleasure of hearing and posing questions of Audrey Niffenegger (Time Traveler’s Wife), John Irving (The World According to Garp, A Widow for One Year, etal) and Douglas Coupland (Generation X) among others. But as a nonfiction writer, my preferred events were those with other nonfiction writers.

Later I posed the question to three other writers with whom I interact in a weekly conference call. Appreciating and honoring the connection he shares with us (and other groups of which he’s a member) one member commented, “Home is where I’m with a collection of people with whom I feel better about who I am, people who would hide me and save me if necessary… people who inspire me and with whom I can create effortlessly.” Whew!

Of these, my favorite was a panel of three Canadian and one American nonfiction writers.

An interviewer facilitated the public conversation with these writers and at one point he posed this question. “Do you believe that your books essentially answer the question ‘who are you?” Three out of four responses were various forms of “yes.” The fourth response, however, is the one that gave me pause, the one that I continue to contemplate and thread into conversations today. She responded, “I believe the more relevant question is ‘Where is home?” Oh, my mind went careening off in a million different directions with this one. I recorded it in my journal for future introspection.

Home, after all, is a multi-faceted, multi-dimensional concept.

Is your home the physical structure in which you eat, sleep and clean? Is it your geographical location on the map? Is it the cultural community with whom you identify? Is it the place where you grew up? Hmm. Where is home? My focus immediately zoomed to Kevin and Mindy—my husband and dog (we affectionately call her a “Blue Ridge Redcoat”—a breed in and of itself). As writer and artist, 124 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

But only for the moment. For whatever reason, I didn’t want to let go of the question. I asked my husband. He agreed with my sentiment and added “Taos (New Mexico) is my spiritual home. It’s where I feel my art and my environment are most intertwined.” The plot thickened.

Another had—that very day—been relieved of an acute pain in her neck, brought on by stress. While in the hands of a cranial-sacral therapist, she experienced—at the very moment the therapist succeeded at alleviating her symptoms—a feeling of levitation followed by unfettered bliss and a total oneness with God. “That” she said, “is where my home is—where I will always strive to return.”

Finally, my fourth colleague responded. “Home is where there’s a convergence of energy. It’s like the home team vs. the away team. You know you belong, you know you play an important role, you have a mission and meaning.”

So many connotations of home! Such delightful stories and musings.

Putting all the theoretical stuff aside, however, we can’t get around the fact that we live in one of the most beautiful and sensuous regions of the world—literally. Right now I call the High Country home because that’s where Kevin and Mindy are. But there’s more. Before going to bed each night, I open the back

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door to the night sky, air and the sounds of the creek below.

When I arise each morning, bleary-eyed and on my way to the teapot, I stop at our picture window and ingest the sights before me: native hardwoods, hemlocks and white pines, the near and distant mountains, the movement of air and clouds, the emerging light from the rising sun, the delicate buds on the trees. And on my morning walks with Mindy, I take stock of the resident (and migrating) birdcalls and animal tracks. Watauga and Avery County roadways—whether highways or byways—never fail to astonish me with their short and long-range beauty. Yes, we choose to live here—together. Home and beauty go hand in hand.

If you haven’t reflected upon the idea of “home” lately, take a minute to do so. How do you connote “home?” I’d love to hear your definition. Email me at kmbeck@skybest.com Your thoughts might just make their way into my next book.

H ommm…e ….

Copyright, Judith Beck, April, 2010, Boone, NC Judi Beck is a freelance writer living in the High Country. Her new book, The Ecology of Conversation, is available through www.trafford.com, www.blurb.com, or www.amazon.com Black Bear Books is hosting a book signing in June. She is busy writing her next book, Where Is Home?

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www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com •125

Resource Index A Flooring Outlet.................................. 66 A1 Vacuum Solutions.......................... 53 Add It Inc .............................................51 Aldous Construction ..............................5 App And Associates ............................26 Appalachian Custom Builders.............. 60 Appalachian Electric............................ 15 Appalachian Furniture ..........................59 Appalachian Manufactured Stone ......118 Art Cellar ..............................................43 AS Construction ...................................25 Baxter Norris Construction....................69 Blackberry Mattress .............................45 Blue Mountain Metalworks ..................13 Burchell Construction ..........................63 Cabin Store .........................................21 Capehart And Washburn .....................23 Carlton Gallery .....................................44 Carrington Designs ..............................12 Classic Stoneworks ..............................40 Closet Design Center ........................102 Covey Hollar ......................................104 Critchers Auto Parts .............................32 Custom Mica & Wood Products .........126 Designs In Wood ..................................49 Dilley Construction ...............................16 Distinctive Kitchens And Baths ..............2 Doe Ridge Pottery ..................................9 Doug McGuire Construction .................14 Dougnet Computers .............................59

126 • www.HighCountryHomeMagazine.com

ELC Lighting Designs........................ 111 Fabric Shoppe ..................................123 Fine Home Builders ..............................5 Firethorn............................................. 19 Foscoe Fishing Co............................ 107 Gamekeeper .......................................39 Glidewells ...........................................39 Green Forestry Solutions ..................122 Green Horizons Innovators .................29 H And H Drywall ................................122 Harry Stroud Roofing ..........................15 Hawk Mountain Garden Center ............5 Hawksnest ........................................105 Headwaters..........................Back Cover Headwaters Enterprises....................... 6 Heather Buchanan Electric ...............123 High Country Clean Space .................29 High Country Energy Solutions ..........26 High Country Renovators ...................67 Hunter’s Tree Service .......................109 Jo Lynn Enterprises ..........................112 Kevin Beck Studio ..............................54 Lehmann Construction .......................46 Lil Greene’s Hydroseeding ...............109 Linville Gallery ....................................42 Logs America .....................................70 Main Street Discount ...........................5 Master Craft .....................................110 McGuire’s Grading ...........................122 McKee Tree Service .........................108

Mike Smith Builders .................................128 Miters Touch .............................................4 Mountain Heritage Systems ......................7 Mountain High Realty ...........................119 Mountaineer Garage Doors ....................23 Munday Hardwood Flooring ...................55 New River Tire & Auto............................33 Oak Hill Iron ..........................................114 Orkin .....................................................123 Orkin .........................................................4 Outdoor Lighting Perspectives .............125 Pleasant Ridge Nursery .......................122 Precision Cabinets .................................58 Quality Tile And Marble .........................117 Randy Blake Carpentry .........................13 Restaurant G ..........................................39 Roof Master Repair ..............................122 Sally Nooney Gallery ..............................64 Skyline Skybest ....................................1 Spivey Construction ................................65 Superior Spas .........................................61 Sustainable Green Builders ..................113 The Country Gourmet .............................40 Tom Eggers Construction .......................11 Walker And Divenere ..............................13 Wallace Propane ...................................68 Wiechert – Weber Hodges ...................122 Wolf Creek Traders ...................Inside Cover Worth Supply ..........................................61 Xtreme Construction .................................5

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