Today's Home Improvement - Premier Issue

I N S P I R AT I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S

HOME T O D A Y’S

IMPROVEMENT inside: LOFTY SPACES

DESIGN ESSENTIALS FOR AN URBAN RETREAT

GREEN WATCH

SMART TIPS FOR SUSTAINABLE VALLEY LIVING

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

CREATE A SPLASH WITH YOUR BACKYARD RENO DOLLARS

plus: AWARD-WINNG RENOVATIONS FROM BORING TO BEAUTIFUL IN LESS THAN 6 MONTHS!

INSPIRED COLOR lpimultimedia.com

September/October 2010

THE CHIC PALETTES OF 2010 AND BEYOND

TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com

www.westar-sw.com

Our Customers Say It Best.

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F E AT U R E S

26 COLOR TRENDS Find Your Own Perfect Palette Sherwin-Williams offers useful tips and ideas for adding color to your own surroundings.

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MAXIMUM CURB APPEAL Four Better-than-New Exterior Transformations Architects employ several strategies to enhance your curb appeal.

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SPACE SOLUTIONS Big Ideas for Small Rooms Discover tricks and techniques to open up a space and create a feeling openness.

Transform your kitchen into the most technologically advanced room in the home.

www.jennair.com

® Registered Trademark/™ Trademark of Jenn-Air, U.S.A. © 2009. All Rights Reserved

Come in today and work with our design sales consultants in the comfort of our showrooms.

New Phoenix Showroom • Appliance Overstock Showroom Scottsdale 15125 N. Hayden Rd., Ste 117 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Phone (480) 596-0092 Fax (480) 596-0439

Phoenix 2020 E. University Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85034 Phone (602) 258-7901 Fax (602) 258-8335

Tucson 2986 W. Ina Rd., Ste 110 Tucson, AZ 85741 Phone (520) 795-4663 Fax (520) 623-1111

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D E PA RT M E N T S

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P U B L I S H E R ’ S N OT E

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P E O P L E & S PAC E S

Getting Underway

Home Court Advantage

Welcome to the premier issue of Today’s Home Improvement.

A Phoenix Mercury star finds her niche.

T R E N D WAT C H

48

A RT F U L L I V I N G

Inspirations. Lifestyles. Solutions.

Living Alfresco

Discover what’s hot for your home.

Create trendy outdoor spaces.

LIVING GREEN

52

F I N A L C O AT

Solar Water Heating

For All It’s Worth

Revamp your energy budget.

10 ways to boost your property value.

DIY CORNER

Install A Cedar-Lined Closet Transform boring into beautiful.

ON THE COVER Sherwin-Williams’ shades of urban, eco-rooftops inspire the grassy and yellow greens in the Local Momentum collection, while the tranquility of water and sky stir a serene blue. And the influence of raw, natural materials like sand and wood are found in this collection’s neutral hues. see page 26

6 TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com

Everyone loves a café.

Now, everyone can have one.

GE Café™ is GE’s first new line of appliances in 15 years, and it’s an exciting new sales opportunity. With stainless steel exterior and robust styling, builders and new home buyers will want to make it the centerpiece of their new home. For remodelers and their customers, the GE Café will easily transform any kitchen with restaurant-inspired design.

At long last, everyone can afford to have an inviting café – right at home. www.geappliances.com/café Come see our fine GE Appliances at Westar Kitchen & Bath at the Tempe, Scottsdale, Peoria and Tucson locations. Phone: (602) 271.0100

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1

• September/October 2010

I N S P I R AT I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S

PUBLISHER Michael A. Kupanoff CREATIVE DIRECTOR Neal McDaniel ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Lindsey Hall, Jessica Knop WEB DEVELOPER Theo Tigno EDITORIAL INTERN Katelyn Bolnick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danielle D’Adamo, Lesley Factor, Michael Higgins, Robert Jensen, Gina Meno, Leigh Anne Monitor, Michael Higgins, Rex Steppe CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jon Denker-Caps, Barry Gossage, Hart Interior Design, Sherwin-Williams, David Zilly SUBSCRIPTIONS 480.443.7750 ext. 312 distribution@lpimultimedia.com ACCOUNTING 480.443.7750 ext. 314 accounting@lpimultimedia.com REPRINTS/E-PRINTS Wrights Reprints 877.652.5295 sales@wrightsreprints.com

CORPORATE OFFICE

Cox Bundles.

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PRESIDENT Trifon M. Kupanoff, Jr. VICE PRESIDENT Michael A. Kupanoff

equipment fees and franchise fees. Deposit may be required. Some services not

LPI Multimedia, Inc. is a proud member of:

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15170 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 5, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 T 480.443.7750 F 480.443.7751 www.lpimultimedia.com Send email to THI@lpimultimedia.com Visit us at todayshomeimprovement.com Today’s Home Improvement™ is published six times per year by LPI Multimedia Inc. Opinions expressed are those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily those of LPI Multimedia Inc. While efforts to ensure accuracy are exercised, the publisher assumes no liability for the information contained in either editorial or advertising content. Publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. Reproduction in whole or part without the expressed written consent from the publisher is prohibited.

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P U B L I S H E R ’ S N OT E

Getting Underway WELCOME

to the premier issue of Today’s Home Improvement! Few things are more exciting for a magazine staff than the debut of a new publication we’ve poured our hearts and minds into for the past several months. And for me—a home improvement fan — the thrill is doubled.

We know you’ll be thrilled also with our great lineup of editorial over the coming year.

Our timely features will encompass renovations and room makeovers, interior and exterior design, home furnishings, outdoor living, home technology, home maintenance, do-it-yourself projects and more. With a focus on local trends, products and services, Today’s Home Improvement can serve as your guide to help you create your dream home right here in the Valley.

In this issue, you’ll find stories on 2010 designer color trends for the home, décor tips for an urban loft, the evolution of kitchen design, and how a lighting makeover can update a room and create an entirely new ambience. In addition, Valley architect Michael Higgins showcases four incredible exterior makeovers, tips on expanding your living space outdoors and an interior designer shares some big ideas for small spaces.

You’ll also discover helpful home improvement tips in our regular columns. This issue’s do-it-yourself project is a cedar-lined closet, our Green Living column tells you how a solar water heater can save you money, and CheckList offers 10 ways to boost your property value.

We’re pleased you’ve joined us for the unveiling of a magazine that’s sure to become a Valley favorite. Enjoy!

MICHAEL A. KUPANOFF Publisher mkupanoff@lpimultimedia.com

10 TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com

my style. my passion.

my kitchen. appliances

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outdoor kitchen products

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flooring

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water systems

I

countertops

I

ceiling fans

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closet systems

showroom locations

it all begins with your vision.

Scottsdale Showroom: 15125 N. Hayden Rd. #117 480.596.0092 Phoenix Showroom: 2020 E. University Dr. 602.258.7901 East Valley Showroom: 75 W. Baseline Rd. Ste. #10-12, Gilbert, 480.892.3984 West Valley Showroom: 8581 W. Kelton Ln. #210, Peoria, 623.583.9553 Tucson Showroom: 2015 N. Forbes Blvd.

520.795.4663

Your kitchen is the center of activity in your home. Shouldn’t it reflect your creativity, taste and personality? Let our experienced design consultants help you realize your dream with a no obligation, personal tour of our Arizona Wholesale showroom.

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cabinetry

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and so much more...

Together we can help you create a custom kitchen that brings your ideas to life, delivering the most beautiful kitchen to you-on time, within budget and beyond all your expectations.

Please call to schedule your free appointment Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.

come discover the possibilities.

www.arizonawholesalesupply.com

FOR JUST $3 A MONTH YOU CAN HELP REFOREST ARIZONA. Please support Trees for Change, an SRP EarthWise™ program. When you give, 100% of your contribution helps plant ponderosa pine seedlings in Arizona forests destroyed by fire. The $3 a month will be added right to your SRP bill. To help make a change, visit srpnet.com/trees.

I N S P I R AT I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S

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TREND WATCH

Color Splash BLEND STYLE AND FUNCTION Bored with your bathroom? Add bright touches of color with the new Versatile Collection from Sonia. Featuring a wide range of mix-andmatch colors and numerous color combos for bathroom consoles and countertops, splashes of orange or red are sure to bring any bland bathroom back to life. The console box is made of multilayer marine-grade wood, which is 100 percent water resistant. The wood counterparts are offered in walnut, wengé, white and ash finishes. The setup shown is priced at $4,330.

954.572.5454 www.sonia-sa.com

TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 13

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CHIC AND SLIM We love this sleek a new lighting fixture from Studio Italia. Inpiano creates a soothing, subdued glow without indirect light. The energy-saving, wallmounted light uses compact fluorescent bulbs, saving approximately onefourth of the normal energy used, lasting about 10 times longer than regular bulbs and is perfect for small rooms and hallways. Prices start at $1,098. 305.621.9602

MOON BATHING

www.sid-usa.com

www.bainsneptune.com

Shower in style with Neptune’s brand new Luna shower kit. This minimalist yet sophisticated design features an acrylic tray and glass shower door in the shape of a half moon. The glass centered design complements the white acrylic and fits well in any color bathroom. Prices start at $2,920.

450.773.7058

DISAPPEARING ACT Need that extra boost to make a good room great? Weather Shield’s new pocket door system integrates outdoor and indoor living spaces through a retractable patio door stored in a wall cavity. The patio door glides on a roller base along rails built into your home, and can be opened and closed by pulling the handle or mechanically by a push-button remote or wall mounted keypad. Available in standard pine or maple, cherry, mahogany, oak, character alder, American fir or aluminum-clad materials. From $15,000 to $22,000. 800.222.2995 www.weathershield.com

14 TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com

SPACE CASE

FANCY FAUCET

You can create that sleek, modern kitchen you’ve been craving— even if you have limited space to work with. SieMatic introduces CompactDesign, its new space-saving kitchen design, which includes sliding doors for kitchen cabinets and increased amounts of hidden storage space to help you combat kitchen clutter. Oak finish, linear countertops and side panels provide a contemporary aesthetic, and bursts of vibrant color help brighten the compact space. 215.604.1350

Sometimes, all a room needs is a little extra charm. Add an extra personal touch to your bathroom sink with THG’s new faucet line. The gold and crystal Vogue faucet is adorably complemented with colorful gem stones, available in Gray Agate, Rose Quartz, Thulite, Cornaline, Smoky Quartz, Rock Crystal and Amethyst. Or try the Capucine faucet for a sleek, modern design and knobs embellished with purple butterflies. Both faucets are also available in finished chrome. Priced from $2,643 to $5,796.

954.425.8225

www.siematic.com

www.thgusa.com

GLASS ROOTS

HIT THE LIGHTS

Put a twist on your dining area by replacing that outdated chandelier with Studio Italia Design’s new handspun and handblown lace lighting fixtures. This dangling light will not only add an elegant touch, the glass created by expert Murano artists in Italy is sure to be a conversation starter.

The fixtures are sold separately and are priced at $1,172 each.

305.621.9602

What good is a textured wall design if you can’t show it off? Pure Lighting introduces the Stratus LED Linear Wall Grazer, a lighting solution for textured walls and other textured vertical surfaces. If you mount the wall grazer on the ceiling, it will evenly cover walls up to 30 feet high with LED light. Especially effective on your textured stone or brick walls, and the system will burn for up to 50,000 hours. 773.770.1195

www.sid-usa.com

www.purelighting.com TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 15

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Bowled Over FUNCTIONAL SINK ART The Velvet Cienega sink by Alchemy Glass & Light offers an opportunity to add a functional piece of art as the center of attention in your kitchen and bathroom. Showcasing the artful capability of earthly beauty, the sink is sure to complement both modern and traditional designs. Prices start at $1,300 and products can be purchased through Clyde Hardware in Phoenix. 323.235.6606 www.alchemyglass.com

16 TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com

HIDE AND SLEEK Hide-A-Hose unveils its retractable vacuum, a built-in hose that can cover up to 2,300 square feet of your home. The sleek SmartTube system is stored in walls, attics or crawl spaces. All the tubing is connected to a central power unit usually placed in the garage, basement or equipment room. Prices range from $1,800 to $3,600. 877.851.4491 www.hideahose.com

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BATHING BEAUTY Swiss bathroom specialist Laufen introduces its Palomba bathroom collection. The Palomba floor-standing bathtub is made of ceramic and features a Macassar finish and thick exterior. The bathtub is rimless when filled, giving you a modern, simplistic aesthetic. www.llaufen.com/usa TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 17

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LIVING GREEN

Solar Water Heating REVAMP YOUR ENERGY BUDGET

by Rex Steppe

IF YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT REMODELING, you’ve no doubt put a lot of time and energy into planning how you want things to look and how your space should function when it’s all said and done. A lot of detail goes into a home remodel, but if you’re like most people, you may have overlooked some important changes that can add to the comfort of your home while keeping more of your hard-earned money in your pocket month after month.

There’s no better time to remodel your energy budget than while you remodel your home. A long-time proponent of energy savings around the home, Arizona Public Service (APS) suggests looking at your home’s appliances as an integral part of any upgrades you are considering.

Most homeowners to look for the ENERGY STAR logo when shopping for energy-efficient appliances, but you may be surprised to discover which often-overlooked home appliances cost you the most money on your energy bill last month. Next to your air conditioner, chances are it was your water heater. If yours is like many Arizona families, your water heater alone accounted for approximately 15 percent of your total energy bill last year.

GO SOLAR The easy solution is to install a solar water heater, and many electric power providers offer incentives for customers who do so. By going solar, you can virtually eliminate the cost of heating your water. Solar water heaters are not only affordable, they also provide environmental benefits. If only 10 percent of homes in Arizona used solar water heaters, we would save enough energy to power more than 36,000 homes. And, since the sun

12 TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 18

serves as the energy source, this solution is clean and renewable.

Putting the sun to work for you is also easy on the wallet. A homeowner may pay anywhere between $600 to $1,000 for a water heater depending on size and type, while a typical solar water heater costs just over $5,000.

However, when you combine power company incentives with state and federal tax credits, the same solar water heater could cost as little as $1,000 and provide most of your family’s hot water needs.

When the system isn’t producing hot water (such as during the nighttime), your traditional water heater acts as a backup to heat your water.

Considering that an electric water heater costs the typical family around $250 per year to operate, your savings will accumulate very quickly.

APS customers interested in taking advantage of the available incentives should begin by consulting a licensed contractor. If you are not an APS customer, check with your electric service provider to see if similar programs are available, and be sure to check whether the system you want to acquire qualifies for rebates before purchasing it. When making improvements to your home this year, don’t forget those that will save you money for years to come and help create a cleaner environment. n Rex Steppe is an Account Executive with Customer Information and Programs for Arizona Public Service (APS). He is also Marketing Manager for the APS Renewable Energy Incentives program.

Learn more at www.aps.com/GoSolar

SOLAR INCENTIVES CHECKLIST 1.Through APS’ incentive program, homeowners may be eligible for a one-time incentive payment from APS equal to 75 cents multiplied by the first-year kilowatt hour (kWh) savings your system provides.

2. Other incentives, such as a Federal tax credit (30 percent of the system cost up to $2,000) and a state tax credit (25 percent of system cost up to $1,000), may also be available to you.

3. Participants in the program are required to contribute a minimum of 15 percent of the actual system cost.

4.The system must be installed by a licensed contractor in the state of Arizona and the equipment must be OG-300 rated to qualify for the incentive.

“IF ONLY 10 PERCENT OF HOMES IN ARIZONA USED SOLAR WATER HEATERS, WE WOULD SAVE ENOUGH ENERGY TO POWER MORE THAN 36,000 HOMES.”

5. Reserve your incentive with APS, as funds are limited and offered on a first-come, firstserved basis.

The incentive application, along with instructions and other resources can be found at www.aps.com/GoSolar.

TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 19

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DIY CORNER

Install a Cedar-Lined Closet TRANSFORM BORING INTO BEAUTIFUL

by Leigh Anne Monitor

...YOU CAN CREATE A CEDAR CLOSET USING DO-IT-YOURSELF, EASY-TO-INSTALL CEDAR PANELS OR PLANKS ...

“REMODELING PROJECTS CAN COST TENS OF THOUSANDS DOLLARS,” says Pat Simpson, home improvement expert and host of HGTV’s “Before & After, Fix It Up!” and “Room to Improve.” “But you can do a little shopping at your favorite home center and give your house a makeover without spending a fortune.”

One easy, inexpensive and beautiful DIY project anyone can do is to cover bare and boring closet walls with cedar wood liners. This look transforms what was bland into a space that’s natural and useful. A cedar closet keeps clothes safe from moths, mildew and silverfish. And it’s easier than a messy closet paint project. In fact, if you cut your wood outdoors, you won’t even need a drop cloth for the closet floor.

The average price of a master-bedroom closet renovation is $3,500, but you can create a cedar closet using do-it-yourself, easy-to-install cedar panels or planks for $150 to $360 for a standard-sized closet. And the best part is, a cedar closet looks polished and expensive when completed and it dramatically brightens the look and feel of the bedroom.

Cedar wood liners from a handful of companies are available at home improvement stores. Cedar liners from CedarSafe are made of thin pieces of aromatic, unstained, natural Eastern red cedar that fit together in an interlocking, tongue and groove style. They nail in easily with one piece fitting smoothly against the next, and are thin enough to nail over existing closet walls with a nail gun.

CedarAmerica Cedar Shelf Lining also offers aromatic cedar wood lining, and the company also features cedar accessories for the closet,

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DIY CHECKLIST Materials needed: For this project, you will need seven to 12 boxes of cedar lining (available at Lowe’s or Home Depot), depending on the square footage of your project.The website cedarsafeclosets.com has step-by-step video instruction hosted

by HGTV host Pat Simpson.

Estimated time: A cedar closet project can be installed over a weekend.You can rent a nail gun at a home improvement store and some stores will even cut the cedar wood for you once you measure the space. For the closet rods, you will need a drill to remove and reinstall the hardware over the cedar wood.

Maintenance note: A cedar closet is easy to maintain. Simply sand the wood lightly or apply cedar oil after two years.This keeps the closet smelling great as it continues to protect against roaches, silverfish and moths.

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DIY CORNER

such as hangers. Little Cedar Log Homes is another company that offers cedar wood for closets or chests.

Renovating your closet with cedar lining will leave a lasting impression on visitors and give you an attractive pest-free storage space you can enjoy for years to come. n Leigh Anne Monitor, a long-time newspaper journalist based in Birmingham, Alabama, is a representative for CedarSafe.

Learn more at www.cedarsafeclosets.com

A cedar closet looks polished and expensive when completed and it dramatically brightens the look and feel of the bedroom.

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TODAY’S HOME IMPROVEMENT SEPT/OCT 2010

C O V E R S TO RY

2010 COLOR TRENDS FIND YOUR OWN PERFECT PALETTE

by Danielle D’Adamo

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GLOBAL TAPESTRY The Sherwin-Williams Global Tapestry Lifestyle Collection dances a festive tango with bold shades of orange, red, gold and green and also waltzes with balancing browns in roasted and sandy tones.

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C O V E R S TO RY

Tango orange, Asian red, grassy green, electric pink—vivid colors in home décor have exploded onto the scene in recent years where cautious neutrals ruled for decades.

What’s new for ’10? Designers are taking their color cues from exotic cultures, local environments, luxury living and techno-brights. Case in point: The 24 hues selected by Sherwin-Williams color experts for 2010 transcend fluidly across four Lifestyle Collections that reflect these trends.

IMAGINATION CAN TAKE YOU ANYWHERE. In addition to highlighting visually the ways these color trends are influencing design, Today’s Home Improvement took advantage of the expertise of Jackie L. Jordan, director of color marketing for Sherwin-Williams to get useful tips and ideas for adding color to your own surroundings.

This Mission-inspired kitchen showcases colors in the Lifestyle Collection including Gambol Gold, Alexandrite, Tigereye, Enticing Red, Umber and Basket Beige.

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C O V E R S TO RY

THI: How does Sherwin-Williams choose its new color offerings to coordinate with home design trends?

JLJ: Sherwin-Williams researches and tracks trends in all areas, ranging from global and local economies to world cultures and travel to technology, fashion and pop culture. These trends then translate into color palettes and color directions for interior design and decorating applications.

THI: Are there any rules of thumb we should follow for coordinating colors throughout a room?

JLJ: One of the easiest ways to coordinate colors is first, determining what type of color scheme you prefer. Monochromatic schemes are very lovely and typically utilize one color in various tints, tones and shades, such as using a dark, midtone and light blue and perhaps a neutral such as white or beige. Use a color wheel to find out what type of scheme 30 TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com

you prefer; complementary (those are colors across from each other on the color wheel) or analogous (colors next to each other on the color wheel). These are the easiest schemes to have success with.

THI: With today’s smaller but more open floor plans, is it best to stay with one color scheme from room to room?

JLJ: With today’s open floor plans, it does become challenging to change wall color effectively from room to room. However, don't let that keep you from changing color schemes with furniture and accessories. Use a neutral or the same wall color throughout and change the accents in the room with pillows, draperies, etc. Follow the same concept for coordinating color in one room but carry that concept into other rooms. For instance, if you are using a scheme with three coordinating colors, make one color the dominate color in each space and use the other two as accents.

CONSCIOUS LUXURY Sherwin-Williams Conscious Luxury Lifestyle Collection draws its inspiration from this new twist on design–evoking a feeling of luxury and sophistication while also reflecting a conscious investment in preserving our surrounding landscape.This collection blushes with sophisticated, cosmetic-inspired pinks, as well as blue and purples that reflect the brilliant sheen of conflict-free gemstones.

Colors in this Lifestyle Collection include Constant Coral, Insightful Rose, Steamed Milk, Plummy, Plum Dandy and Celestial.

TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 31

LOCAL MOMENTUM Sherwin-Williams Local Momentum is inspired by the handiwork of local artisans and the beauty of the natural resources found in all of our communities. Shades of urban, eco-rooftops inspire the grassy and yellow greens in the Local Momentum collection, while the tranquility of water and sky stir a serene blue. And the influence of raw, natural materials like sand and wood are found in this collection’s neutral hues.

Colors in this Lifestyle Collection include Lemon Verbena, Grandiose,Wool Skein, Mesa Tan, Black Fox and Aqua-Sphere.

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C O V E R S TO RY

TECHNO-COLOR Technology is not only expanding our reach worldwide, it is also extending to the world of design. Catch the next color wave with the eye-catching pinks, blue and green in this collection, and then go industrial with concrete and stainless steel grays. Bright colors are a key element, providing a dramatic contrast when used with the darker, more subdued tones that are also part of this palette.

Colors in this Sherwin-Williams Techno-Color Lifestyle Collection include Hep Green, Gauntlet Gray, Zircon, Ruby Shade, Zany Pink and Reflecting Pool.

FOLLOW THE PATH OF YOUR INSPIRATION. THI: Do you have any tips for avoiding a “we didn’t hire a designer” look when changing a room’s decor?

THI: Many of us are afraid of color and gravitate toward neutrals. Is there any hope for us?

JLJ: If you are changing everything, I suggest keeping it simple to begin with. I like to keep big-ticket items such as sofas and tables neutral, and then add color with less expensive items such as pillows and paint. Live with new furniture and wall colors before you start to accessorize. Sometimes we get carried away with accessories and end up with a space that offers little relief for the eyes.

JLJ: There is hope for everyone! Just look at magazines and books and visit model homes to see how designers are using color. If you find something that really inspires you, go for it.

Painting a room is the easiest and least expensive way to make a statement. Start with a small room like a powder room or guest bedroom to get the feel for what color can do for a small space before you embark on a larger project. Then you will be much less apprehensive about moving into the family room or master bedroom. n

Accessories typically look better in groupings of odd numbers (three or five). Also, remember your artwork does not need to match your sofa. Finally, mixing design styles can be tricky for some, so if you stick to one style (contemporary or traditional) it will give cohesiveness to a room.

Danielle D’Adamo is a contributor to Today’s Home Improvement.

To get inspiration for your own project, visit www.colorofinspiration.com

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F E AT U R E S

A two-car garage added to the archway in the rear yard provides a transition between buildings. Stucco now dresses the exterior slump-block walls, while eaves impress with a Spanish Colonial-style makeover. The garage doors are accentuated with wood overlay and iron hardware as well as a storage area that pops from the front.

Salvaged, reclaimed clay-roof tile gives the home a feeling of durability and permanence. And the new low walls defining the front-entry courtyard now feature colorful garden beds, which add a welcoming street appeal. As a final touch, attractive wrought iron light fixtures gently illuminate the front of the home.

Photo by David Zilly

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MAXIMUM CURB APPEAL FOUR BETTER- THAN - NEW EXTERIOR TRANSFORMATIONS

by Michael Higgins

The term “makeover” might suggest that a home is old and out of date, but many homes suffer from curb appeal problems— whether they were built 50, 40 or 20 years ago. Architects can employ several strategies to enhance curb appeal, from giving a home’s exterior a needed lift to creating an entirely new façade.

Their “tricks of the trade” can help create a stunning new look.

BEFORE

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F E AT U R E S

Landscaping can cover many mistakes in the original home, and it is one of the lowest cost investments you can make to ensure a beautiful façade. Removing overgrown or unsuitable landscape elements and replacing them with the right landscape design is always an important part of exterior makeovers.

Many times, transitions from outdoors to indoors that provide shade are missing from a home’s original design due to budgetary constraints. Adding shadow porches, walkways, arcades and courtyards is often part of redesign. Front entries that address the street and pedestrian traffic are important elements of curb appeal. This was lost on post-world war housing and the age of the automobile, and most homes built in the 1950s and 1960s were approached from the driveway with a front door facing away from the street. (The Arcadia area is a good example.) A makeover of such a home will make it inviting from the street rather than feeling secluded.

Windows should fit the style and scale of the home. Another benefit to replacing windows is that technology has come far in the last 10 years, making them much more energy efficient.

Beautiful front doors with added glazing are like a welcoming handshake to visitors.

Massing is another technique to add interest and substance to an elevation. Many homes were originally built with long flat facades, but additions that add depth and change the line of the house also add interest and balance to the home.

Another element that is often lost on post-war housing is detail. As modernism was taking hold, much detail and tradition was lost in architecture. Boring facades often share one attribute in common: They lack detail. Trim, mouldings, accentuated columns, window sills, shutters, wainscoting or belly banding, Interesting eave details and decorative railings are all details that create visual interest. Another important element of detail is to use more than one exterior material.

Lighting is also an important element of curb appeal.

Decorative light fixtures add detail, welcome guests, provide security and can support the style of the home.

To make your exterior makeover project a success, invest in direction from an experienced professional. A good architect is one who specializes in residential renovation, will listen to your needs, is an excellent communicator, proceeds cautiously by obtaining estimates and pricing during the process, and understands the context of your neighborhood, how the house relates to the neighbor-hood and the style you desire. With help from the right professional, your home can become a curb appeal sensation and the showplace of your neighborhood. n Architect Michael Higgins is Principal of Scottsdale-based Higgins Architects, LLC. Learn more at www.higginsarch.com

AFTER

BEFORE

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AFTER

BEFORE

Above: New colored-concrete decking around the pool classically transforms this backyard, now featuring a huge patio where residents can enjoy a breakfast nook off the kitchen. Scissor trusses allow for higher ceilings on the patio, wrapped with a planter to soften the transition from the main home.

And a new ramada affords views of Camelback Mountain.

The exterior of the home is enhanced with tapered columns and windows with divided panes that add charm as well as increase energy conservation. Finally, stucco over the insulation board provides a consistent finish while improving energy conservation.

Opposite: An added second story, complete with Romeo and Juliet balcony, changed the face and feel of this home. Canterra stone accentuates the openings, and Mexican brick highlights the window sills.

Wall vines and front landscaping are now finely manicured, and trimmed hedges buffer the home in relation to the circular drive.

To comply with zoning codes, the color of the walls now have a low-light reflectance value. New small windows in the living room balance internal light and infuse the building’s face with charm and vibrancy.

Photos by David Zilly TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 37

F E AT U R E S

AFTER

Above:The Anderson home is difficult to recognize after its amazing facelift, which began with replacing the asphalt driveway with sandblasted concrete pavers.The new red-clay tile roof is lower maintenance than was its flat predecessor, and it provides shade to the building walls. Colored stucco was used to lower light-reflectance value, eliminating the need for repainting.

The height of the covered entryway was adjusted to create a welcoming, human-scale approach to the front door. Colored-concrete columns, mouldings and a finely crafted front door add inviting details to the faรงade.The garage structure was revamped with three smaller doors, enriched with hardware and wood-textured doors.The stepped-back second story over the garage adds to square footage while better integrating the structure into the overall, less-imposing look.

Photo by Jon Denker-Caps

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BEFORE

P SCA F E AT U R E S

SPACE SOLUTIONS BIG IDEAS FOR SMALL ROOMS

by Gina Meno

1.

Armless sofas, sectionals and chairs allow proper seating while creating openness in your room. Chairs with open arms also permit flow in a room along with sofas having exposed wooden feet verses full skirts. Glass and shiny metals used on casegoods reflects light and creates a nearly-invisible quality.

2.

Ottomans and benches create additional seating in your family room when needed for visiting guests, but because they are backless, they give a visual effect that the room is open and inviting.

3.

Use light-colored fabrics on large upholstered sofas and sectionals while adding color, print or movement on occasional chairs, ottomans and accent pillows. This color proportion will give the appearance of larger, more open space.

4.

Given the advantages of wireless computers, set up a narrow desk or side table that will allow you to multitask in your family or great room. This allocated work surface provides an area where you can be on-line while watching your favorite show or while gathered with family members. This narrow desk will also allow for family togetherness while completing homework, playing games or reading.

5.

The use of mirrors or sets of mirrors open up a space and create the faรงade that the room size has increased. Before hanging these mirrors consider what they will reflect back. Mirrors can add character and charm to a room when they reveal something interesting or architectural rather than a bare wall.

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A

The striped paint detail adds height to this young girl’s room, and the bookcase have adds needed storage space.

TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com 41

6.

Smaller spaces need adequate storage so that items have a place to be put away. Use patterned storage boxes that can be stacked on shelves, under cocktail or end tables and even under your bed to organize and hide clothing and other valuables.

7.

Keep the room clean and simple when it comes to accessorizing. The overuse of accessories can make a room feel busy and cluttered. Group items together visually, adding height and interest while allowing space to flow between groupings to avoid over stimulating the collections in your room.

8.

Adequate lighting will make a room feel larger because it is well lit and open. Lighting has never come in as many options as it does today. There are great wall and ceiling mounted fixtures, retro-looking swaged floor lamps and miniature halogen lights for bookcases and shelving units.

Place an up light behind a plant to add a shadowed effect that subtly softens a room.

9.

Paint can add drama to make your room look and feel larger than it is. If you have low ceilings, consider adding vertical painted stripes to add height, or if the space is the opposite scenario, add horizontal paint lines to increase width visually.

10.

Try hanging drapery panels higher above the windows than you normally would. This creates the illusion of height in a room and gives the space perspective. n Gina Meno is President of Hart Interior Design, based in Tempe. Hart Interior’s sister companies are H3D, which designs custom millwork working with green materials, and The Hart Studio, offering design for luxury homes.

Learn more at www.hartinteriordesign.com

TOP: Floor to ceiling mirrors open up this dining room, reflecting light from the chandelier as well as an interesting metallic backsplash in the kitchen.

MIDDLE: In this living space, color is distributed to the accent chairs, keeping the sofa light for openness in the room. In the nook area, the drapery hung ceiling length adds height to the room, and an upholstered bench supplies additional seating.

BOTTOM: Bold color combined with small-footprint furniture add to the feeling of a more open space.

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Home Court Advantage A PHOENIX MERCURY STAR FINDS HER NICHE

by Lesley Factor

When you hear the name Diana Taurasi, the term basketball star might roll right off your tongue. Now in her sixth season with the Phoenix Mecury, this WNBA Champion’s list of accomplishments includes three consecutive NCAA titles during her days at the University of Connecticut and two Olympic gold medals with Team USA. Even more impressive, she’s added all of this to her résumé With such a hectic existence, Taurasi needed a comfortable place to hang her jersey. In 2007, she purchased a condo in the Biltmore area. She cites her affinity for the city lifestyle as one reason for choosing this particular neighborhood. “Growing up in Chino, Calif., I am used to a city feel since it’s so close to Los Angeles,” says Taurasi. “The Biltmore area offers that, but also has a close community sense.”

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PERFECT YOUR SPACE • Add texture and interest to your kitchen by installing tile. For the best look, keep tiles limited to one area such as the alcove above the stovetop or the wall over the kitchen desk.

• Need to make a room feel larger but don’t have the extra space? Flooring of a lighter color will automatically widen a room, especially when the material is laid diagonally instead of parallel to a wall.

• If you want to turn your bedroom into a retreat, but don’t have the built-in space, add a bench to the end of the bed and/or a comfortable chair near the window for a cozy feel.

(far left) Diana Taurasi (left) Block concrete walls can add a minimal, edgy feel to a room. (above) Taurasi opted for a simple, modern design for her living room. (right) Lime green pillows add a burst of color to a black and white color scheme.

Taurasi photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE/Getty Images

Among the neighborhood’s many attractions, she’s particularly fond of restaurants such as Chelsea’s Kitchen and Delux, which she enjoys while in town since cooking isn’t one of her strong suits. But at the end of each day, Taurasi couldn’t shake the feeling that something just wasn’t right. Then she realized her apartment didn’t yet feel like home.

Being a self-proclaimed minimalist with an active lifestyle, a simple design was important to Taurasi. When she chose the space, the “modern and sleek” look really appealed to her. So to help add a sense of her own personality and touch, she opted for a black and white theme with pops of color. This look inhabits what designers refer to as the 60-30-10 rule, and can be easily replicated by anyone.

Typically, people see every room in parts and 60 percent is seen as the basic theme or unifier. In the living room, where Taurasi says she spends most of her time, the walls are painted white, serving as a neutral backdrop. The next element, or 30 percent, should add variety to the space and thus draw the human eye.

Taurasi chose black furniture, which creates direct contrast to the area and adds an edgy feel to the room. Lastly, 10 percent of the room should add extra pizzazz. Taurasi achieves this

through the use of lime green couch pillows. The result is a subtle yet elegant space that captures the exact essence of its owner. Other items that add a burst of color to a room are floral arrangements, paintings and rugs.

During her downtime, Taurasi can usually be found on the couch catching up on her favorite show, “True Blood,” or staying connected with her friends on the Internet. Because she travels for up to eight months a year, she doesn’t feel the need to fill her home with items that will go unused. She is, however, a “green” advocate and owns many energy-efficient appliances such as her refrigerator, washer and dryer and many of the items in her kitchen. “It’s just my way of helping out,” she says.

When asked what household item she can’t live without, she is quick to respond, “The iron. Since I’m usually on the court or on the road, I have to make sure I look presentable.”

In just a short amount of time, Taurasi has found her niche in the Valley and created her ideal space, and she hopes to call Phoenix home for at least a while. For her Mercury teammates, the feeling is definitely mutual. n Lesley Factor is the public and community relations manager for the Phoenix Mercury.

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Living Alfresco TRENDY OUTDOOR SPACES

by Michael Higgins

One of the best ways to add living space to your home is to increase the outdoor areas, which can be done rather inexpensively. So, what can you do to your home to take full advantage of our wonderful climate? Develop your outdoor space, don’t ignore it. It’s an essential part of enjoying the beautiful climate we have here in the Valley.

Here are a few things to consider: 1. Shading. In Arizona, one of the first things to consider is

shading your outdoor space. Some creative ways to accomplish this are through the use of awnings, umbrellas, tree placement and structures. Understanding the orientation of your outdoor space is paramount in creating a comfortable environment. For instance, during the winter months, north-facing backyards tend to have more morning and afternoon shade, while southfacing backyards will have more sun in the afternoon. You should also ask yourself, what time of the day and year will you be using the space?

An interior Arizona courtyard provides a complete sense of safety and allows the home to open up during nice weather. A wood trellised structure provides shade during the day and the fireplace provides a focal point that can be viewed from inside the home. Photo Courtesy: Jon Denker, www.CapsFoto.com

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2. Elements. When designing outdoor spaces consider the

elements—water, plants, seating, televisions, music, barbeques, armadas and appliances. These elements add function, aesthetics, personality and entertainment value. You want the space to be beautiful, but it should also be fun, user-friendly and functional for the entire family to enjoy.

3. Romance. Along with a family-friendly backyard, many

couples want their space to elicit romance, intrigue, passion and fascination. You can achieve this with candles, fireplaces or fire pits and direct and indirect lighting such as landscape lights, dimmers and sconces.

This Arizona patio was made for barbeques and social gatherings. It contains a small, yet colorful wall fountain exuding a southwestern flare.

It is the perfect focal point for this backyard. The comfortable seating, shade trees and covered patio allow the space to be used in any kind of weather. Photo Courtesy: David Zilly

A front courtyard serves as a porch and gathering spot where the homes residents can connect with neighbors and friends. The fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs is situated on a patio defined by flagstone pavers with a lawn that fills the gaps. The lawn provides a cooling effect and a more informal feeling to the space. A big tree provides the perfect amount of shade during the summertime. Photo Courtesy: Jon Denker, www.CapsFoto.com

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A RT F U L L I V I N G

HIRING A PROFESSIONAL 1. Get Referrals. If you see a home you like, ask the homeowner for the name of the designer or contractor they used. Be sure to check with your local building department to ensure that any required permits are obtained.

2. Check References. When hiring a contractor, always ask for a list of current, satisfied customers and look at the completed projects. Call the references you receive and ask if the work was done on time and within budget.Would they use this person again? Was the process enjoyable?

3. Hire Licensed Professionals.

You should know if your contractor is registered, actively licensed, bonded and insured. And here’s why. Hiring a licensed contractor offers protection to property owners, such as the ability to file a complaint against the contractor’s license.This is your guarantee should the workmanship be below standard or in violation of existing codes. Arizona contractors can not obtain a license without possessing a minimum amount of experience and must pass a business management test. In many cases, they are even subjected to criminal history background checks, and must not have any unresolved, outstanding contracting complaints.

Source: www.AZRoc.gov

Select patio furniture that will weather our intense sun and harsh climate. These chairs, designed by Philippe Staark, are available through Design Within Reach in Scottsdale. They were specially made for the outdoors. They blend into the flooring material and how the greenishblue potted plants match the accent color scheme of the home. These touches give this Arizona backyard, an authentic Southwestern feel.

Photo Courtesy: Jon Denker, www.CapsFoto.com

4. Continuity. A few extras to keep in mind—and these are the

details that’ll make your backyard space uniquely yours— consider continuity, truly bringing the indoors, outside. For instance, opening up exterior walls with expandable glass doors, or extending your indoor flooring material, outdoors—this brings a sense of continuity to your two spaces, creating one, large continuous space. Then, by adding misting systems, fans, fountains, lush vegetation and patio furniture that mimics the indoor look, will bring it all home. n Michael Higgins, of Higgins Architects in Scottsdale, has specialized in residential architecture since 1994 in a wide variety of historical styles and has been widely published in architectural journals throughout the southwest. www.HigginsArch.com

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FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR NEXT HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECT. I N S P I R AT I O N S • L I F E S T Y L E S • S O L U T I O N S

This Ramada provides a wonderful focal point at the end of this long pool. These outdoor spaces are usually considered one of the nicest and most utilized portions of the homes we design. The Ramada has a fireplace, flat screen television, wet bar with a small refrigerator and a pool bath and storage room for toys located at the rear of the structure.Photo Courtesy: Jon Denker, www.CapsFoto.com

VISIT US ONLINE AT:

TODAYSHOMEIMPROVEMENT.com AND BE INSPIRED.

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F I N A L C O AT

Updated countertops and appliances are the quickest fix, giving you the most bang for your remodeling buck.

For All It’s Worth 10 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR PROPERTY VALUE

by Robert Jensen HOMEOWNERS PLAY AN IMPORTANT PART not only in how their home is perceived by prospective buyers, but also its actual appraised value. To help sellers better maximize their profit potential, follow these 10 tips for readily increasing a home’s worth.

1. Paint the exterior - A fresh coat of paint can give even a relatively new home a much needed facelift, and can often be done for as low as a few thousand dollars. Select a neutral tone that is consistent with other residences in the neighborhood. Also, be sure to pay close attention to eaves, gutters and drains that may also need painting.

2. Complete all needed repairs - To maximize a home’s worth, it should be in good condition both inside and out. Don’t wait until there is an offer on the home. Hire an inspector now and fix any problems such as roof deficiencies, leaky plumbing and electrical concerns.

3. Purchase a home warranty - Establish peace of mind that comes with knowing a home and its contents are adequately covered in the event of a loss. A transferrable home warranty protection plan can provide added security to the homeowner— and the potential buyer.

4. Furnish the home to sell - Appeal to the buyer’s emotion.

Furnishing a home can go a long ways to getting your home sold, increasing the odds of it selling. Give buyers the option to procure the property with or without furnishings, and have a pre-established sale price set for either scenario.

5. Upgrade front yard landscaping - Curb appeal plays a big role—more so than people realize. Potential buyers driving the neighborhood may never call the number on the For Sale sign if your home doesn’t look appealing from the outside. And buyers waiting for their Realtor to show up often spend a good amount of time critiquing the landscaping while waiting. In addition to purposeful foliage, add landscape lighting and a weather- and soil moisture-based landscape irrigation scheduling device to boost the value even more.

6. Create a quick kitchen makeover - Kitchens are one of the number one rooms in the home in which you get the most

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bang for your remodeling buck. Countertops and appliances are the quickest fix, along with faucets, fixtures, door knobs and other easily changed items that can have a great impact on the space.

7. Think spa, not bathroom - The master bath is an important a factor in a home’s worth. Think spa, or private sanctuary where the master bath is concerned—a space meant to be relaxing, rejuvenating and more. Give buyers something to be excited about with upgraded faucets, fixtures, lighting, cabinetry, mirrors and other details. Then, dress it up with plants, candles and other inexpensive, high impact décor.

8. Install soft and hard window treatments - There is nothing more boring than a plain window. Take advantage of this easy opportunity to give the home’s interior design more impact, while also increasing the home’s worth. In addition to “hard” treatments such as blinds and shutters that offer privacy, also add soft treatments hung from decorative fixtures, which can alter the appeal of a room entirely. Look to a professional to ensure the best outcome.

9. Replace carpet rather than just cleaning - Rather than simply steam cleaning old, used carpet, replace it with fresh, neutral-toned carpet with an upgraded pad for an extra luxurious feel. Spending the extra money on new carpet will really make your home stand out from the crowd in looks, feel and even smell.

10. Don’t overlook your closets - The better organized a closet, the larger it appears and the better it reflects on a home overall.

Now is the time to box up those unwanted clothes and shoes and donate them to charity. Then, invest in a closet organization system—either by a professional or self-installed. A closet makeover will have a positive impact on an appraisal.

Robert Jenson is CEO of luxury Las Vegas realty The Jenson Group at RE/MAX Central.

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Dinner parties. Good friends. Summer savings.

SRP is giving new meaning to home comfort. From energy-saving tips to rebates on energy-efficient appliances, you can find comfort in places you never thought possible. $400 AC REBATE

SHADE SCREEN SAVINGS

Replace your current AC or heat pump with a qualifying new

Nearly half of the heat in your home enters through the

high-efficiency system during the SRP Cool Cash promotion

windows. To keep the heat out and stay comfortable this

and get up to $400 back. What’s more, you could qualify for

summer, add shade screens to sun-struck windows. It could

up to $1,500 in Federal tax credits.

lower your cooling costs by up to 25%. Save even more with discounts from SRP on shade screens.

For these and more ways to save energy and money, visit savewithsrp.com.