$4.95
SPRING 2020
H E R iE m I Na H V EeR n g AeN OTr d Wa t c h SPRING 2018
trend watch I M AG E M AG A Z I N E ’ S
BUILD, REMODEL & DECORATE
SPRING 2020
A TIME FOR RENEWAL COMFORTABLE, CREATIVE LIVING
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117
contents
spring 2020
88
78
FEATURES
26 It Takes a Village By Dian Parker
In This Issue
38 Want a New Kitchen?
18 R emodeling Tips & Trends 2020
What to think about when considering a renovation. By Brian Stowell, president, Crown Point Cabinetry
22 D elivering Dreams, Beautifully 34 K itchen Remodeling, Step by Step
72 A Modern Vermont Classic Turning a house into a home. By Cheryl Boghosian, ASID
Claremont Custom Framing offers hard-to-find services.
54 T echnology Meets Art and Function 57 R aindrops Keep Falling on Your Head?
88 A Lakeside Dreamhouse
65 D iscuss Your Water Needs with an Expert
Sarah Chapin works her decorative magic.
78 Communication Is Key 98 True Colors
By Anne Richter Arnold
108 Reclaiming Aerie Point A 1920s homestead is reborn a century later. By Katherine P. Cox
2020
Real Estate, Insurance, Banking 46 Colby Insurance 52 S nyder Donegan Real Estate Group 70 LindeMac Real Estate 102 Guaraldi Agency 116 Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty
44 Special Advertising Section
urniture Trends for 104 F all Seasons
Building the Future. Restoring the Past.
118 Trees and Construction
trend watch I M AG E M AG A Z I N E ’ S
$4.95
BUILD, REMODEL & DECORATE
128 Sugar River Bank
100 Color of the Year
124 E njoy Your Backyard Again 14 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
100
SPRING 2020
60 Making a Difference
136 Advertisers Index
SPRING 2018
By Tareah Gray
134 Mix It Up!
H E R iE m I Na H V EeR n d W a t c h g AeN OTr
82 Breathing New Life into Art
48 B eautiful, Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors
130 Buildings Galore
SPRING 2020
Collaboration brings a vision to life.
A TIME FOR RENEWAL COMFORTABLE, CREATIVE LIVING
Cover: Dining room by Gilberte Interiors, Inc. Photo by Charles Parker, ImagesPlus.
image
editor’s note The Comfort of Home While you and your family are staying at home during this COVID-19 pandemic, make the most of it. Spend your time together playing cards and board games, watching movies, or turning up the music for a family dance party. Use this period to do those household chores you never seem to get to. Clear away clutter and organize closets, cabinets, and drawers. Now more than ever, our homes are our havens, so nestle in place Deborah Thompson and surround yourself with soft textures in bedding, throws, and Executive Editor dthompson@mountainview rugs; add calm with green plants and fresh flowers; and, if you’re publishing.com working from home, tuck away laptops and paperwork well before bedtime to give yourself a mental break. You’ll find many more ideas for creating a peaceful, tranquil home in this issue. Thanks to the experts at our local businesses who are sharing their best tips and advice as well as their beautiful projects. Remember to follow local guidelines and stay safe. Above all, relax and enjoy! like us www.facebook.com/mountainviewpublishing
trend watch 2020
Mountain View Publishing, LLC 135 Lyme Road Hanover, NH 03755 (603) 643-1830 www.uppervalleyimage.com Publishers
Bob Frisch Cheryl Frisch Executive Editor
Deborah Thompson Contributors
Mark Aiken, Anne Richter Arnold, Katherine P. Cox, Mary Gow, Tareah Gray, Susan Nye, Dian Parker, Dean Whitlock Associate Editor
Kristy Erickson Creative Director/Design
Ellen Klempner-Béguin Advertising Design
Hutchens Media, LLC Web Design
Locable Advertising
Bob Frisch
KEEP US POSTED: Trend Watch magazine wants to hear from readers. Correspondence may be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, Image/TW, 135 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755. Or email us at: dthompson@mountain viewpublishing.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by email to rcfrisch1@comcast.net. Trend Watch is published annually in the spring by Mountain View Publishing, LLC ©2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. Trend Watch magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.
16 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
2020
Remodeling
Tips and Trends 2020
Is a Renovation in Your Future?
GREEN UPGRADES IT PAYS TO GO GREEN High-performing, low-emissivity (Low-E) windows are
SIMPLE STEPS TO SUCCESS
the most common green building product installed by
I
residential remodelers, says the National Association
f you’re tired of your harvest gold kitchen or your avocado green guest bathroom, perhaps you’ll decide to join the millions of other homeowners who take on a remodeling project each year. The reasons for moving ahead with the work are many, including:
of Home Builders (NAHB). Additionally, a separate
k Adding more space kU pgrading cabinets, counters, appliances,
when they hear the word remodeling, going green can
and fixtures
k Creating a floor plan that fits your lifestyle k I mproving energy efficiency with new windows, doors, insulation, and climate-control systems
kW idening doorways and installing walk-in showers, higher toilets, and other features for aging in place
k Increasing the resale value of your home Start by making a list of your wants and needs. Magazines and websites are good sources of inspiration. Keep a file of photos of your favorite homes or rooms, noting features you like. Think about traffic patterns within your space, furniture size and placement, colors, lighting, and how you expect to use the remodeled area. A key aspect of any project is coming up with a realistic budget, so figure out how much money you have to spend on the remodeling job itself, furnishings, landscaping, and any other costs involved. Now it’s time to contact your local home builders’ association for the names of member builders and remodelers. You can also ask family, friends, or coworkers for recommendations; word of mouth is often the best way to find the right builder for you. Once you’ve zeroed in on your contractor, it’s important to ask for references and then check them. For more information, go to www.nahb.org. 18 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
2020
survey shows that programmable thermostats and highefficiency HVAC systems also ranked highly among the most common green products used by homeowners. You may also want to upgrade or add to your insulation. While most people think of kitchens and bathrooms
save homeowners on utilities, improve air quality, and increase the value of their homes.
REMODELING FACTS HOW ARE AMERICANS SPENDING MONEY ON THEIR HOMES?
Bathroom and master closet addition
May is National Home Remodeling Month. Are you planning on tackling a project? Will you reorganize a closet, add a guest room, or build an outdoor fireplace? Consider some facts from a recent National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey before you decide. They report that bathrooms have become the most popular renovation homeowners are investing in. “Small-scale renovations are slowly becoming just as popular as largescale projects, as seen with bathroom remodeling becoming more common than kitchens,” said 2018 NAHB Remodelers Chairwoman Joanne Theunissen, CPG, CGR. “Homeowners are finding that cost-effective and shorter timeframe upgrades can also add comfort and value to their homes.”
These were the most common projects for 2017 (the most recent information available):
81%
Bathroom remodeling
78%
Kitchen remodeling
49%
Whole-house remodeling
37% Room additions
30%
Kitchen remodel
Window/door replacements
Kitchen color is nothing to shy away from in 2020. From painted cabinets to a pop of color, let your imagination guide you.
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By Mary Gow
Make Your Home Fit Your Lifestyle A REMODEL CAN ADD BEAUTY AND FUNCTIONALITY TO YOUR SPACE
Our families, work, and lifestyles change through the years. Our homes sometimes also need to change. Working with the right team, setting an appropriate budget, and knowing the steps along the way make a remodeling project more enjoyable and the final product even more exhilarating. Here is a broad outline of what to expect when you’re remodeling.
1
PLANNING Why do you want to make changes? Do you want or need extra space? Is your current space out of sync with your lifestyle? Are you planning for aging in place? Are you yearning for a fresh look? Be as clear as you can about your goals. As you work toward them with your professional team, you may find solutions that are different from
those you expected, and in the end give you an even better final product.
home you intend to own for a long time,
3
your budget will be different than if you
team, including the project manager for your home, and you enter into a
are eyeing resale within a few years.
single contract for the project.
2
MONEY and TIME What is your budget for the project? Set a figure that fits your finances and will yield a result that meets your goals. If you are planning the remodel for a
YOUR TEAM To take your vision from your thoughts to a plan, you want the right professional help. Two options to consider are whether you hire an architect or contract with a design-build firm. With design-build firms, both design and construction services are offered by a single entity. The firm may have licensed archi-
tects or designers on staff. The company will have their own building
If you hire an architect, the architect works for you, bringing expertise and custom solutions to meet your goals. The architect typically develops a detailed plan that you then take out to bid with contractors. Do your research, visit websites, read reviews, and get referrals to decide who you want to work with through this process. Communicate clearly. Like you, your professionals want the project to be a success.
3 MONTH
R E N O VAT I O N T I M E L I N E This took about a month before starting the project
4 DAYS DEMOLITION
(Day 22 through 26)
FRAMING & DRYWALL
3 WEEKS
ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING ROUGH-IN
10 DAYS
PLANNING
20 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
(Day 1 through 21) 2020
(Day 29 through 39)
5 DAYS (Day 39 through 44)
PAINT
CABINETS & FIXTURE INSTALLATION 10 DAYS (Spread out between Day 45 and 70)
The most critical decision homeowners will make when embarking on a remodeling project is choosing the right professional for the job.
personal letter
LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE When you love your home but know that it can better serve your lifestyle or future, remodeling offers solutions. Remodeling can give you needed space, new connections with the outdoors, improved energy efficiency, smarthouse systems, fresh style, and much more. Embarking on a home remodeling project is thrilling. For many
SURFACES After everything inside the walls is installed, it’s time for the surfaces—drywall, wall tiles, plaster, or paneling. Drywall is
of a beautifully remodeled home to its completion is a journey. Personally, I’ve undertaken three remodeling projects in
on the heels of this work.
a little over two decades. One
new kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, tub, and countertops
DEMOLITION Out with the old! Cabinets, flooring,
what daunting. From the vision
taped and sanded. Painting comes
CABINETS and FIXTURES Those
IMPLEMENTATION
of us, though, it is also some-
come in, suddenly bringing the
nearly doubled the footprint and living space of our 1870s farmhouse. In the second, we adapted the ground floor along the lines of universal design to
plan to life.
be accessible and livable for
good deal of what’s removed is often discarded as
FLOORING For the most part,
people of all abilities including
waste, although some builders facilitate salvage,
flooring is installed after the other
those who rely on a wheelchair.
allowing your old cabinets or useful materials to
parts are in place.
We also stepped up insulation,
have further function.
FINE TUNING Faucets, switch
in fuel and electric consump-
NEW FRAMING New walls go up. If you are increasing
plates, light fixtures, coat hooks,
tion. The current project is the
insulation, existing outside walls may be augmented
towel bars, register covers—all the
most modest, updating the
for more depth. Openings for new windows and
final details that end the remodel-
kitchen and bath of a vacation
doors are framed, exterior ones are put into place.
ing project are installed and make
condominium.
walls, and more will come down and move out. A
yielding fabulous reductions
the house a home again.
IN THE WALLS While the walls are open, the mechanicals that make a house work are installed—
MOVE BACK IN Give yourself and
electrical lines, plumbing, heating and air condition-
your team a big pat on the back!
ing, vacuum, smarthouse systems, and more. New
Now you get to enjoy the home
insulation is put in place.
and lifestyle you envisioned! TW
For several years, I have also had the privilege of writing for Trend Watch. Every spring I talk with architects, designbuild teams, and an array of experts about what’s new in home design. Their advice has helped me better understand home building and remodeling
DOOR & WINDOW SURROUNDS
1 DAY
7 DAYS
processes. Brilliantly designed
(Day 65)
(between day 73 and day 90)
homes featured in Trend Watch
FLOORING
have also introduced me to aesthetics and planning that I
5 DAYS (between Day 64 and 74)
CLEAN HOUSE & AIR VENT
9 DAYS (between Day 66 and 90)
TRIM & FINISH WORK Source: thewunderlustkitchen.com
have brought to my own home.
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DELIVERING DREAMS, BEAUTIFULLY
ENNIS CONSTRUCTION FOCUSES ON QUALITY PRODUCTS AND RELATIONSHIPS
“We build quality and lasting relationships through exceptional organization, communication, and attention to detail.” 22 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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The house was completely stripped down to the studs to allow for installation of all new electrical, plumbing, heat, and insulated windows. Custom iron railings highlight the 3-inch-thick solid walnut stairs. The space features new 3/4-inch walnut floors and a new stone veneer wood-burning fireplace.
We asked Jamey Ennis, project manager and president of Ennis Construction in Quechee, Vermont, to explain what’s involved in a building or remodeling project. WHERE DO YOU START THE BUILDING OR RENOVATION PROCESS? First, we have an initial meeting where we determine the team. Will we need to have an architect and a designer involved or do we just need a cabinet designer and the homeowners will choose the cabinets and help with the design? The team depends on the complexity, scope, and size of the remodel.
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HOW DO YOU HELP A HOMEOWNER STAY ON BUDGET? Right from the start it’s important to define realistic budget ranges for the scope of work the homeowner is looking for and, depending on their budget, then proceed with fine-tuning, detailed competitive pricing, and value engineering (for example, we’ll take into consideration structural factors that may save money and produce a similar aesthetic result, such as replacing windows and putting them in the same opening rather than installing bigger windows) depending on the budget goals. We also define all scope and unknowns that may arise and put possible values to those. WHAT CAN A HOMEOWNER EXPECT THROUGHOUT THE RENOVATION? The client is included in every step of the process. We determine all timelines for the planning process through to the job launch and give the homeowner an overview of how the entire process works and we set expectations. We provide task lists, lead times, detailed schedules, and criticalpath timelines, which determine what needs to be decided upon and when to keep the project moving forward on schedule. We provide progress pictures and updates on scheduling multiple times a week as well as job site meetings and walk-throughs at critical points in the process. We will also determine any permits that are necessary and assist with or provide all those permits. Permits are very important to decide what the parameters are that the town or association will allow, and we are involved with that from the very beginning. We’ll also discuss any hazards to be aware of, such as lead and asbestos. TW Ennis Construction 176 Waterman Hill Road Quechee, VT (802) 674-2646 ennisconstruction.com
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Warm-toned western hemlock siding is featured on the garage and first floor of the home. The mix of vertical and horizontal lines between the structures, along with cedar shingles on the second floor, creates added interest.
BY DIAN PARKER PHOTOS BY JOHN W. HESSION
IT TAKES A
VILLAGE C O L L A B O R AT I O N B R I N G S A VISION TO LIFE
26 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
2020
“Our goal was to create a total environment that was consistent with our love of nature,” the couple says. “And our top priority for selecting a builder and contractors was local, local, local.”
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The lakeside guest cabin was thoughtfully designed using timber harvested directly from the property and is where the homeowners lived while the main house was being built.
C
reating a dream house can either be a wonderful experience or one that is filled with problems from start to finish. To ensure that the process of building a house stays positive, the homeowners have to hire a top-notch design company as well as an expert construction company. In addition, it helps when the homeowners are flexible and hands-on. A forever home in the
Sunapee region of New Hampshire was a dream-filled project from beginning to end. A former Boston-area couple bought 30 wooded acres fronting a small lake in 2016, looking to build a home to blend into the natural setting. Their vision was a timber-frame house nestled in the woods with glimpses of sunlight glittering off the lake through the trees. After the house site was cleared, a 1,274-square-foot cabin was built to accommodate the couple while the main house was being built.
Original sketch by Jim Driesch of the new mountain-lake style Timberpeg home.
28 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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Assembling a Dream Team “Our goal was to create a total environment that was consistent with our love of nature,” the couple says. “And our top priority for selecting a builder and contractors was local, local, local.” Because the homeowners were relocating from the Boston area to the community permanently, they wanted local crafts- and tradespeople who would be their neighbors to be involved in the building of their cabin and house. They found Jay Tucker, president of Old Hampshire Designs in New London, and Dan Benedict of Benedict Brothers Construction in Bradford. “We can’t speak highly enough about their professionalism, knowledge, care, respect, and business experience,” say the homeowners.
Surrounded by the warm Douglas fir timber frame, a custom-designed turned wood and steel chandelier hangs from the cathedral ceiling in the great room.
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30 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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The great room is perfectly suited for gatherings of family and friends. Right: Inspired by the homeowner’s belief that “nothing in nature is perfectly straight,” the twig balusters were a collaborative effort by Dan Benedict of Benedict Brothers Construction and Dave Little of Winnipesaukee Forge.
Designing the house and cabin was a collaboration with Jim Driesch of Timberpeg, Jay Tucker and his son Sam, who was learning CAD software at school, and the homeowners. Together they developed a set of plans required for the building permit. The cabin was built entirely of wood harvested from the property—red and white pine and oak. The trees were milled by WrightWay Custom Sawmilling in Newbury and finished by Kiln Works, LLC in North Haverhill. The resulting wood was used for the interior floors, walls, and ceiling, as well as for the exterior porch railings and posts. Rick Flint was the project manager on both the cabin and house projects. Planning and timing each element of building the 5,000-squarefoot main house was important. The site work began with blasting, which took about four weeks, and installing the septic system. The concrete foundation was poured and allowed to set in three weeks, along with finishing the driveway grading and underground utilities.
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The House Takes Shape Framing the house took three to four months, after which the wiring and plumbing were installed before the walls and ceiling were closed in. This was when the work was first reviewed by the building inspector. The complete installation of heating, electrical, insulation, cabinetry, and finish work took seven months. Building the cabin began in June 2017, and the husband and wife moved in nine months later. The building of the house took 13 months, beginning in September 2018. The couple moved into the main house in December 2019 just in time to celebrate Christmas with their large extended family. The homeowners say, “We had a discussion with Jay about whether we would be in the house by Christmas. Jay said no problem and the family booked plane tickets. A couple of months later, meeting that goal didn’t look promising because the oak flooring was late to arrive. But three days before Christmas, Jay’s crew took away their tools, cleaned from top to bottom, and started moving in our furniture. They put up our 12-foot Christmas tree and even strung the lights. We were able to enjoy our first Christmas in the house. We love these guys!”
Custom designed by Crown Point Cabinetry, the kitchen features an antique copper apron-front sink and granite countertops. Opposite: The loft/office features a custom-crafted maple desk by Rick Wright of WrightWay Custom Sawmilling.
Creating the Perfect Space The homeowners came with a design in hand but were looking for suggestions. Jim Driesch and the Tuckers proposed flipping the layout by moving the kitchen and main living spaces closer to the garage/mudroom entry side of the home. “In the original design, they would have had to walk down a long hallway, past bedrooms and bathrooms, and through the great room to enter the kitchen on the opposite end of the house,” says Jim. The new layout allows easy access to the kitchen, making tasks like unloading groceries easier. It also creates a private, quieter area for the bedrooms and bathrooms.
It takes a village to build a house. It takes many minds in collaboration to bring a vision to fruition. 32 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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The first floor is 2,160 square feet. The Douglas fir, timber-framed house features a great room, a living area that opens into the dining room, and kitchen with a 24-foot cathedral ceiling. “Eighty percent of homeowners prefer an open concept,” Jay says. “This great room layout creates easy flow, especially for parties of 50 to 100 people, and a big family with a dog.” The expansive room has a gas fireplace with stonework created by Ron and Josh Dunlop of Stonehenge Masonry & Stove in Tilton. The large, custom-designed kitchen was by Crown Point Cabinetry in Claremont, with granite countertops by Shaker Hill. Winding up from the great room is a staircase graced with “twig” balusters of wrought iron, inspired by one of the homeowners. The other half of the couple says, “My husband believes that ‘nothing in nature is perfectly straight,’ so he envisioned the balusters to be slightly curvy. This challenged one of the finish carpenters who is definitely a plumb-and-straight kind of guy (as most carpenters ought to be). Dan Benedict was the mastermind of the gorgeous twig-work railings we have in both the cabin and the house.” The downstairs area has three bedrooms and a full bathroom. The upstairs loft serves as an office and has a view down to the great room.
The 17x17-foot master bedroom has the feeling of being outside, with sliding glass doors that open out onto a balcony where a hammock swings in the breeze. The bedroom also has a stone gas fireplace and a full bath. The total area of the second floor is 1,680 square feet. All the fixtures were chosen by the new homeowners, including the custom-designed turned wood and steel chandelier that hangs from the high cathedral ceiling. The collaboration for the wrought-iron railings and the large lighting fixture called “Branches” over the dining table was with Dave Little from Winnipesaukee Forge in Meredith and Peter Bloch from WoodGlow in New London. It takes a village to build a house. It takes many minds in collaboration to bring a vision to fruition. It takes experience, expertise, and leadership from many craftsmen to make a willing team. TW Old Hampshire Designs 263 Main Street New London, NH (603) 526-6945 oldhampshiredesigns.com Timberpeg 61 Plains Road Claremont, NH (800) 636-2424 timberpeg.com
Local Contractors and Contributors Benedict Brothers Construction 355 NH Route 114 Bradford, NH (603) 848-6503 benedictbrothers construction.com Crown Point Cabinetry 462 River Road Claremont, NH (800) 999-4994 crown-point.com Kiln Works, LLC 588 Airport Road North Haverhill, NH (603) 787-6430 kilnworks.synthasite.com Shaker Hill Granite 17 Granite Place Enfield, NH (603) 632-9800 shakerhillgranite.com Stonehenge Masonry & Stove 456 Laconia Road, Unit 3 Tilton, NH (603) 273-9117 Winnipesaukee Forge 5 Winona Road Meredith, NH (603) 279-5492 irontable.com WoodGlow New London, NH (603) 526-6152 WrightWay Custom Sawmilling 535 Route 103 Newbury, NH (603) 493-7598
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A kitchen with dated appliances and an unused desk area is turned into a cook's dream kitchen with new appliances and an appliance garage to keep a clean aesthetic.
34 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
2020
BY SUSAN NYE
KITCHEN REMODELING, STEP BY STEP
THE EXPERTS AT SHAKER HILL GRANITE AND CABINET EN-COUNTER WILL HELP
It’s the heart of the home. It’s the place where family and friends always seem to gather. Open floor plan or not, exceptional cook or not, we all want our dream kitchen. If you are ready to stop dreaming and start renovating, it’s time to contact the experts. They can help you understand timelines and budgets. And just as important and more fun, they can take you through the many options available for cabinets, countertops, tile, and everything else you’ll need to build your dream kitchen. We turned to John Napsey, cabinetry design specialist at Shaker Hill Granite and Lois Horan, the head designer at Cabinet en-Counter to take us through the process. No matter how simple or complex, all renovations start with four fundamental questions. First, have you chosen a contractor? That’s the guy who’ll come in, take your old kitchen apart, and install a beautiful new one in its in place. If you don’t have a contractor lined up, John and Lois can offer some advice and recommendations. John says, “Some smaller projects, usually with younger homeowners, are done without a contractor, but we don’t recommend it.” Second, what’s the timeframe? “We find that many of our clients have an end date in mind. It could be Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special celebration like a wedding or graduation party. Our seasonal residents often want to kick off the summer with a new kitchen on Memorial Day weekend,” says John. Having that end date allows you, your contractor, and your suppliers to work backwards to ensure that everything from the cabinets to the backsplash arrives when needed. No one wants to see a renovation come to a grinding halt because the new flooring wasn’t ordered in time. There’s nothing worse than an idle crew while a kitchen sits half finished. Third, what’s the floorplan? Unless you are tearing down walls, this one is pretty easy. You know the dimensions of your kitchen or can measure it pretty quickly. If the current layout doesn’t work for you, you’ll need to consider the added time and expense of moving walls, plumbing, electrical, and vents. Your contractor can help you estimate the additional time and costs. Is it worth it? Only you can decide. Fourth, what’s the budget? “This can be a difficult question for many people. While most homeowners have a pretty good idea of what their perfect kitchen
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This Sunapee, New Hampshire, kitchen designed by John Napsey includes Shaker-style maple natural cabinetry, matching custom soapstone farm sinks, and soapstone countertops.
GENERAL ORDERING DEADLINES The more custom and complex your design, the earlier the orders need to be. Make your decisions and place your orders early. 8–16 weeks out – final dimensions fixed 8–16 weeks out – appliances ordered 6–14 weeks out – flooring ordered 6–14 weeks out – cabinets ordered 6–14 weeks out – stone slabs for countertops reserved
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looks like, they don’t always understand the costs involved,” says Lois. “Our goal is to give our clients a wonderful kitchen and stay on budget. Open communication is important throughout the process to make that happen.” John adds, “It’s a process, but I like to try to give the homeowners some rough numbers at the first meeting. Once we have the room dimensions, I have a pretty good idea of the number of cabinets and size of the countertops.” With this information, John can give the client a range for the major costs for the remodel. “I generally start in the middle. As we move forward, I can help them hone in on what they love and what they can afford,” says Lois. Meanwhile, with a rough layout and floor plan, the homeowners can have similar conversations with their contractor, flooring specialist, and appliance dealer. Creating the Design and Making Choices With the contractor scheduled and the timeline, floor plan, and budget in hand, work can start on the design plan. Many home-
owners work with an architect or interior designer. They come to Shaker Hill Granite or Cabinet en-Counter with their design in hand. “At that point, most of the storage decisions have been made. The homeowners just need me to help them with their final color and style choices,” says John. “Do they want the clean lines of a frameless or Shaker-style door or something more traditional?” Not all homeowners work with a professional designer. When that’s the case, John’s questions get more detailed. Along with style questions, he’ll ask about pets, family size, how many cooks will be in the kitchen at the same time, and whether they are right-handed or left. With or without professional help, Lois finds that “Most of my clients have been thinking about the changes they want for a while. They have materials and colors in mind and arrive with a collection of Pinterest boards and Houzz articles.” She says, “These boards and articles give me an idea of what they like. It’s a good starting point.” Most kitchen designs will go through a couple of sets of revisions as the homeowners zero in on their choices, must-haves, and the reality of their budget. Delivery Dates Are Set If all goes perfectly, depending on the size and complexity of your kitchen, it should take four to six weeks to tear it apart and put it back together. It could take longer if yours is a very large kitchen, you’re tearing down or putting in walls, or moving plumbing. Your contractor can advise you. TW
Shaker Hill Granite 17 Granite Place Enfield, NH (603) 632-9800 shakerhillgranite.com The Cabinet en-Counter 105 Hanover Street Lebanon, NH (603) 448-9700
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BY BRIAN STOWELL, PRESIDENT CROWN POINT CABINETRY
Remember that paying for quality only hurts once.
kitchen? Want a new 38 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
2020
W H AT T O T H I N K ABOUT WHEN CONSIDERING A R E N O VAT I O N
This dramatic two-tone maple kitchen features Whitetail painted wall cabinetry and contrasting Gale Force painted base cabinetry
Is vacating a possibility? Are you ready to do dishes in the tub? Are you ready to be without your kitchen for weeks? Right: This elegant Manhattan kitchen features High Reflective White paint and polished brass hardware.
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Everyone wants a beautifully remodeled kitchen. Before starting on your dream project, here some things to think about to avoid it becoming a nightmare. If you and your partner live in this house, are you both “all in” on this project? Too many times we have seen projects derailed after battling spouses can’t agree on key elements. Sometimes what they really disagreed on was doing the project. We had a project come to a halt when the husband refused to come to any meetings on design details, not because he did not care about the details, but because he did not want to do the project. If you are both in agreement that the renovation is a good idea, who makes the decisions? Each partner has elements of the project that are important to them. If both partners cook, they should respect each other’s input on layout, appliance choices, and workflow. If only one cooks, that person should have more say in these matters. If one party cares more about finishes than the other, defer. Compromise is a really good idea in a renovation project. Do It Yourself? Think twice before you convince yourself you can do this project yourself to save money. It does you no good to be your own general contractor if you don’t know what you are doing. Permits? Someone has to pull those. Historic district requirements? We have seen renovation projects languish for years while the powers-that-be in the historic commission decide if they like your choices. You may be thinking it is a kitchen renovation, so it doesn’t matter. But it does matter if you are adding on or changing windows, doors, or exterior trims. Development rules? Certain areas don’t let you start work before a certain hour or continue work after a certain hour. Some developments don’t allow you to perform work during certain months. If you don’t know these things, they can raise havoc with the schedule and put you an entire year off your schedule. A professional who works in your area knows all these things.
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Create a Realistic Budget It is rare that anyone starting a renovation project knows what it is going to cost. Get a professional to help steer the project and get you realistic costs. If you have not done a renovation in 20 years, you could be in for a shock. There is a limited number of qualified subcontractors to do the work. Electricians and plumbers in particular are not being replaced at a rate they are retiring. This limited supply creates a situation where prices go up and schedules go out. It also entices less qualified individuals to get into the business, so ask for referrals from prior clients. Remember that paying for quality only hurts once. Have a budget for everything. Remember, a professional can guide you through all of this because this is not their first rodeo. Cabinetry, counters, and appliances are the components that most people believe will account for the major cost of the renovation. While this is true in most instances, it is not true in all. Demolition, replacing walls, wiring, windows, doors, trims, flooring, and labor add up fast. Your Home’s Value Remember that although a kitchen is one of the renovations that increases the value of the home, it is not a dollar-for-dollar trade. Based on the value of houses in the neighborhood, your renovation may give you very little financial return. First and foremost, the renovation should be for your enjoyment. On the flipside, you can do your home an injustice if you under-renovate the kitchen to save money. If the renovation is to get a property ready for sale, potential buyers expect a certain fit and finish in a certain neighborhood or price range. You never want someone to walk into a renovated kitchen and think that it is not up to the quality of the house or neighborhood. In a good
Pure White painted cabinetry is the perfect choice in this oceanside kitchen. Below: Open shelves and glass doors help give this renovated kitchen a welcoming feel.
First and foremost, the renovation should be for your enjoyment. On the flipside, you can do your home an injustice if you under-renovate the kitchen to save money.
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real estate market, buyers are more forgiving. In a tougher real estate market, a fine quality, well-designed kitchen really helps sell a home. If you are renovating for resale, you need to play it safer than you would if it were for a home you planned on living in for 20 years. You may love a high-gloss modern kitchen, but if you are trying to market to the average buyer, the renovation style needs to have a wider appeal. Details in the renovation need to be in keeping with the details in the rest of the home. Once again, the market for a modern glossy kitchen in a turnof-the-century colonial has very limited appeal. Is Vacating a Possibility? Have a plan if you are living in the house while it is being renovated. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a second home they can move into during their renovation. Are you ready to do dishes in the tub? Are you ready to be without your kitchen for weeks? Look forward to a temporary sink. Washing dishes by hand like it was 1959 becomes a daily chore. (Make it couple time—one washes and one dries!) I was dumb enough (and my wife was sweet enough) to approve a kitchen renovation shortly after our second son was born. If I could go back in time, I would have delayed the project. We were so excited about a new kitchen we underestimated the stress of living in a construction zone.
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Make Plans Early Understand that choices should be made in advance for the most successful conclusion. We work with clients who come to us 6 to 18 months in advance of needing cabinetry. With our full custom line, the choices are so vast there is a lot to think about. With a seemingly endless number of choices comes added cost. Reclaimed woods make for beautiful cabinetry, but the cost is several times that of maple or cherry. There are also lead time issues for different materials or specifications. Make sure you ask if any decisions you are considering affect anything other than the price. Some materials can take months to procure. This obviously impacts the schedule. You are going to run into situations where costs are going to run into the wall of reality. Is it worth going over the budget to accomplish what needs to be accomplished? If you are at the demolition stage and discover you need to rewire a wall, that is an unfortunate situation that will have to be dealt with—and paid for. You don’t have a lot of choices at that point. If you get to the end of the project and find out your countertop choice is unavailable but there is another option “just like it” but double the cost, it is easier to go with another choice altogether. Remember, it is always easy to write off extra expenses early on as you are not worn out on the project and it is still exciting to you. But after a few too many of those, there is a point where you wish you could reconsider some of the earlier decisions. Remember
that every time a change with an extra charge is presented. Buy as much quality as you can afford. Quality is not just about fit and finish. It is about expertise. Quality is about reputations. Reputation is about keeping your word. Coming back when there is an issue. As a buyer, do your due diligence. Ask for references. Ask for references that had problems that needed to be corrected. Make good decisions that you can live with. The Importance of Communication Communicate throughout the project. Communicate with your partner. Communicate with anyone else who is living in the house before the project so they know what they are in for. Communicate with professionals or vendors. Don’t assume anything. If you don’t know, ask. If you get an answer you don’t understand, say so. Most issues can be easily resolved with good communication. With so much going on in a renovation project, it is imperative you communicate with your professionals. Let them know that you expect the same communication in return. Be patient with everyone involved in the project. Your partner is having their patience tried like you are. Don’t take your frustrations out on someone because “you have had enough.” In a renovation project, patience can wear thin—for everyone. Be patient with your professionals. If you have hired quality, they have your best interest at heart. If you hired someone because they were cheap, you get what you deserve. No offense, but little investment on your part should come with little expectations. To have high expectations at that point is unrealistic. Once again, even when you chose quality, things can happen. The world doesn’t always work the way everyone wants. And it will be all right in the end. It isn’t life and death. It is a kitchen renovation. TW
Crown Point Cabinetry 462 River Road Claremont, NH (800) 999-4994 crown-point.com
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Watermark Construction 552 NH Route 11 Sunapee, NH (603) 763-6440 www.watermarkmarine.com
Smokeshire Design
Terrigenous Landscape Architecture
Inspired Design to Share & Experience
624 Depot Street Chester, VT (802) 875-1322 www.terrigenous.com
3630 Route 103N Chester, VT (802) 875-3109 www.smokeshiredesign.com Visit our showroom Open 7 days 10am–5pm
Loewen Window Center of VT & NH
Heating Oil and Propane
H.R. Clough, Inc.
High Meadow Builders
52 Bridge Street White River Junction, VT (800) 505-1892 (802) 295-6555 www.loewenvtnh.com
76 Pine Street Contoocook, NH (603) 746-3456 (800) 730-2426 www.hrclough.com
160 Mechanic Street Lebanon, NH (603) 448-5626 www.highmb.com
Boynton Construction
North Country Door
Brown’s Auto & Marine
216 Route 5 Hartland, VT (802) 436-4411 www.boyntonconstruction.net
NH Route 120 Cornish Flat, NH (603) 469-3476 www.ncdoor.com
453 Sunapee Street Newport, NH (603) 863-3322 www.brownsautoandmarine.com
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“We Build Trust”
Fine Paints of Europe
American Plate Glass
Charles Silva Builders
274 West Woodstock Road Woodstock, VT (800) 332-1556 www.finepaintsofeurope.com
150 Pleasant Street Claremont, NH (603) 542-7787 www.americanplateglass.com
106 Midsomer Meadows Lane Woodstock, VT (802) 457-9000 www.charlessilva.com
Docks Plus
Twin State Garage Door, LLC
The Gilded Edge
Newport, NH (603) 863-3198 cell: (603) 630-0467 docksplus@gmail.com www.docksplus.com
Enfield, NH (603) 632-4900 www.twinstategaragedoor.com
69 Hanover Street Lebanon, NH (603) 643-2884 Facebook.com/GildedEdgeFrameShop
Estes & Gallup
Rodd Roofing
Lumber Barn
13 Orford Road Lyme, NH (603) 795-4400 www.estes-gallup.com
49 Perkins Street St. Johnsbury, VT (800) 331-7663 www.roddroofing.com
2460 NH Route 114 Bradford, NH (603) 863-5601 Goshen, NH (603) 938-5161 www.lumberbarn.com Mon–Fri 7am–5pm; Sat 7:30am–5pm
Mon–Fri 8am–5:30pm
Mon–Sat 10am–6:30pm
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INSURANCE | BY KATHERINE P. COX
EXPERT ADVICE FOR HIGH-VALUE HOMEOWNERS
Colby Insurance Group Brett Barselle President
What is considered a high-value home? High net-worth individuals and families typically own one or more homes valued over $750,000 with custom construction, high-end appliances, underground utilities, home-based smart-technology systems, and perhaps outbuildings such as custom barns or studios. What special insurance considerations do high-value homeowners need to know to make sure their assets are protected? Insurance programs designed explicitly for high-value insurance customers offer protection for clients with substantial assets. An independent agent who understands the needs of high-value homeowners can help guide them toward the right policies to help protect their home, their assets, and their lifestyle. An inspection of the property is necessary to gain a full understanding of the coverage needs. It’s essential for homeowners to work with their agent to ensure that reconstruction costs are adequate and all assets are protected. It’s equally important to make sure the liability limits are high enough to protect assets from liability lawsuits. What is the best way to make sure high-value personal belongings such as art, antiques, or jewelry have adequate protection? Standard policy limits for personal belongings may not be enough to cover high-value
276 Newport Road Suite 211 New London, NH (603) 526-2451 colby-group.com 46 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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items. Homeowners should discuss with their agent any valuables they have such as jewelry, antiques, collectibles, or rare items that cannot be replaced by something new. In addition, they should itemize and individually schedule (list on the policy) high-value items to ensure coverage beyond the limits offered on standard policies. An additional feature offered by most high-value home policies is the convenience of a personal-articles floater with a blanket coverage limit. How can high-value homeowners benefit from a thorough risk assessment? The agent and homeowner should also discuss risk management and the client’s risk tolerance. An open dialogue and inspection can help identify gaps in insurance and overlapping coverage. Educating the homeowner about the need for policy endorsements and additional policies for items such as luxury cars, boats, and additional properties is accomplished through frequent communication between the homeowner and insurance agent. What else are high-value home insurance companies known for? Superior claims service sets high-value home insurance companies apart. They understand and cater to high net-worth customers and will go the extra mile to make the claims process go as smoothly as possible. TW
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BEAUTIFUL, ENERGYEFFICIENT WINDOWS AND DOORS
RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN WILL BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE
Anna Hewitt, marketing and events coordinator at Renewal by Andersen in Lebanon, New Hampshire, answers questions about the company. HOW DO YOU BEGIN A REPLACEMENT WINDOW JOB? Once a customer contacts us, we send a design consultant to meet with them in their home and provide a hands-on experience. The design consultant measures and checks out the home, windows, doors, and so on. They then provide a generalized quote so the homeowner can see pricing up front for what they need and want, and we move forward from there. HOW DO YOU WORK WITH HOMEOWNERS TO MAKE THE PROJECT HAPPEN? We try to provide the best customer service and allow homeowners to see the windows/doors on a computer program we use that is similar to a 3D drawing of their exact space. Our crew goes to their home for install day and to finish the job. HOW DO YOU WORK WITHIN A HOMEOWNER’S BUDGET? Each job varies depending on size, style, and type of window, so the price varies as well. We offer financing plans and can show a homeowner how low each monthly payment can be per window. WHAT TYPES OF MATERIALS ARE AVAILABLE? Our windows are made of Fibrex, which is a combination of wood and vinyl. This is why our windows don’t rot and won’t warp like vinyl.
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Design consultants measure each window you want to replace, including specialty sizes, to make sure you have the best quality and option.
Expert Advice Without insulation around the door or window, neither will meet the performance levels desired. When doing a replacement job, be sure to inspect the opening after you remove the old window/door. If you see rot, make sure you replace the framing because it will only get worse with time. Use the right window for the right job. An example would be not using casement windows that extend over a small deck or patio as they will take up space on the deck when open. French doors are great, but when open in a small dining area, they take up a lot of space in the room.
IN THE KNOW
When you’re researching replacement windows and weighing your options, there is one important thing to keep in mind: always compare whole-window performance and not just the individual window components.
Double Hung
Casement
Bay/Bow
Picture
Sliding
Specialty
Awning
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WHAT ARE SOME ENERGYEFFICIENT OPTIONS? Poor-performing windows are an energy drain and can account for a significant percentage of a home’s heat loss in winter and heat gain in the summer. Renewal by Andersen window replacement can save you money on your energy bills. Our newest glass option, SmartSun™ glass, is our most energy-efficient glass option. Installing our ENERGY STAR® certified windows and doors can shrink energy bills—and carbon footprints—by an average of 12 percent nationwide compared to noncertified products. TW Renewal by Andersen 262B Mechanic Street Lebanon, NH (802) 457-1849 rbavermont.com
Energy Star windows allow you to enjoy all seasons—you won't lose heat during the winter or gain it during the summer.
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REAL ESTATE | BY DIAN PARKER
17 ROPE FERRY ROAD, HANOVER, NEW HAMPSHIRE.
2 PARADE GROUND ROAD, HANOVER, NEW HAMPSHIRE.
EXCEPTIONAL AGENTS AND LOCAL ROOTS
Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group You are a boutique real estate firm. What does that mean, and why did you remain a boutique versus joining a national franchise? When people choose to live in the Hanover and Woodstock area, they are often making a deeper lifestyle choice. They are not looking to live in an area filled with suburbs and shopping malls. They are looking for unique premium properties, restaurants, and local stores—not national franchises. Snyder Donegan is a boutique, premium real estate firm focused on providing a higher level of service to our listing and buyer clients. Our 11 agents in our offices in Hanover and Woodstock combine local knowledge with attention to detail, personal integrity, and a client-centric business focus.
Are there other advantages to working with a boutique firm like Snyder Donegan? The Internet has leveled the playing field for property marketing. For boutique firms with a smart, savvy team of digital-marketing partners, we gain exceptional global exposure for properties in our local market areas. Large franchise companies have more “red tape” and company regulations that restrict the ability of your broker to innovate. A boutique firm offers instant, more direct communication with the company owner, allowing for quick and cutting-edge customization in marketing your home. We do not apply a cookie-cutter approach or pay a franchise fee. We focus 100 percent of our considerable marketing and digital-marketing dollars only on the HanoverWoodstock market.
35 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-0599 5 The Green Woodstock, VT (802) 457-2600 www.snyderdonegan.com 52 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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David Donegan, Owner
John Snyder, Owner
Snyder Donegan Real Estate Group is one of the most successful growth stories in the Upper Valley in the past 10 years. How did you achieve that? Starting from scratch at the beginning of the worst real estate recession in our lifetimes (2009) to achieving more than $87 million in sales in 2019, Snyder Donegan is one of the most successful locally grown business stories of the past decade. We have earned every sale through competence, hard work, and excellence in execution. Each client has different needs, so we focus on customer service rather than on how many homes are bought or sold. The client’s needs, opinions, and tastes are our first priority. We are small and professional, dedicated to maintaining our clients’ trust. We believe in the value of community. It is at the heart of why we love living and working in our special part of Vermont and New Hampshire. TW
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Top left: The Phantom Executive power retractable screen with the motor and housing recessed into the header allows the screen to roll up completely out of sight when not needed. The side tracks are recessed into the stone column. Lower left: Phantom Legacy manual retractable screen doors are available in custom colors so they become virtually invisible when not in use. Center and right: The grid pattern and the stick design on the shower glass are just two of many designs that can be printed on glass using the DipTech printing method.
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TECHNOLOGY MEETS ART AND FUNCTION CLAREMONT GLASSWORKS OFFERS PRACTICAL—AND ATTRACTIVE—SOLUTIONS
Manufacturers are continuously introducing new products that incorporate the latest techniques and materials to beautify our homes while making our lives simpler. We talked to Keith Raymond at Claremont Glassworks about the latest products available to function beautifully in today’s homes. WHAT’S THE NEWEST TREND FOR SHOWER ENCLOSURES? Two things in particular are coming to the forefront. We’re seeing hardware in a matte black finish, and customers are asking for frameless sliding shower doors that have top rollers like barn doors. These frameless showers look beautiful and they allow the frameless look for confined spaces that don’t have room for a swing door. Another thing that’s becoming a trend is DipTech finish on glass. We can get glass for countertops and backsplash areas that looks just like marble or even wood. The DipTech method can also be applied to look like a grid pattern on shower doors—very nice and very easy to clean. WHAT ELSE IS GROWING IN POPULARITY? People are discovering the beauty and convenience of retractable screens. We have Phantom retractable screens for single doors, double doors, or even large openings up to 25 feet wide and 16 feet tall for garage door openings and porches and patios. These screens can drop down to cover the opening just by pushing a button, and when you don’t need them, they can retract back into the housing. TW Claremont Glassworks 125 North Street Claremont, NH (603) 542-3100 www.claremontglassworks.com
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RAINDROPS KEEP FALLING ON YOUR HEAD? IT MAY BE TIME FOR A NEW ROOF
A successful installation meets the challenges of the home design while providing the cladding of choice for the owner.
We asked to Hunter Grillone at Jancewicz & Son in North Walpole, New Hampshire, to enlighten us on what we need to know about installing a new roof and to bring us up to date on the latest materials. How do customers know it’s time to call you? People for the most part don’t think about their roof until there is a problem, maybe a water stain around the skylight, maybe a leak around the chimney with heavy rain, or worse, water staining on the interior ceiling during the winter. If the roof cladding isn’t very old, these problems may be able to be repaired. Often, we come out to find that the roofing material is worn, old, and brittle and in need of replacement. This allows us to discuss roof cladding options that some homeowners may not have considered. What are some popular materials for roofing? For many years the mainstream roof cladding has been asphalt shingles. This material is available
in a wide variety of textures, patterns, and colors. Today’s metal cladding of choice is standing seam roofing, which accounts for the most significant growth of all roof claddings available today. It’s a metal panel system that features vertical legs and a broad, flat area between the two legs. This roof cladding can be fabricated using copper or a metal substrate with a painted finish. A new standing seam roof starts to come alive when a roll of metal is delivered to our shop. Most customers today prefer a painted finish; for this our material of choice is 24-gauge galvalume steel that has been factory painted with a high quality Kynar low-gloss paint finish. How is it installed? Prior to arriving at your home for your roof installation, we fabricate all the edgings and flashings in our shop using specialized equipment. When we are ready to start your job, we transport the roll of steel to your job site along with our specialty machines, which allow us to manufacture the www.uppervalleyimage.com •
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roofing panels right in your driveway. This allows us to make the panels and form them based on the specific dimensions and details of the project. We pride ourselves as being pioneers in the standing seam industry; our staff has vast experience with the proper fabrication techniques that solve even the most challenging roofing details. How does the average consumer know a quality job when they see one? Pay special attention to the details. Do the panels lay flat and are they aesthetically pleasing? Look at the details when the roof planes intersect, roof transitions, and valleys. Do they look like they were installed by skilled craftsmen or do they appear like the installer used a hammer to pound them together? Do you see exposed screws at the top of the panel at the ridge? You can purchase the very best metal, but if you hire a contractor without the proper tools, knowledge, or craftsmanship to properly form and install the roof, you will not be happy with the installation and will have made a poor investment. How has the roofing business changed? Years ago, owners simply selected the roofing material they desired and then picked a color. Today, owners want to know how the new roof cladding will protect their home beyond just keeping the weather out. How efficient is my new roof? Will my dark roof color make my home hotter? Can I save energy with my new roof? Can I improve the insulation in my roof while it is being replaced? We have a vast variety of products available today, from Energy Star approved paint finishes to solar-reflective and solarpowered roof cladding. We take the time to review the available options with the owner, allowing them to make an informed buying decision. TW Jancewicz & Son 1164 Main Street North Walpole, NH (603) 445-7110 www.roofsplus.com
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Right: All black Solaria solar modules on the roof of the Granite Air Center hangar at the Lebanon, New Hampshire, airport reduces glare for pilots and control tower personnel. Middle: The Passive House certified Tracy Community Housing in West Lebanon is the first net-zero multifamily building in New Hampshire. It is solely powered by solar modules on its walls, roof, and cornices, as well as a solar modulecovered arbor. Bottom: Solar power on the five buildings of the Maple Manor apartments for low-income elderly and disabled persons in Newport, New Hampshire, drastically reduces energy costs.
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BY MARK AIKEN
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
RETIRED PHYSICIAN HELPS A LOCAL COMMUNITY GO SOLAR In retirement, Norm Levy figured out a way to make a difference in his community. “I was interested in energy efficiency,” says the retired laboratory physician who for 22 years specialized in diagnosing blood diseases at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon. “And my focus was on helping lower-income populations.”
Left: The 50kW AC rooftop solar array on the newly constructed Wentworth Community Housing apartments in White River Junction, Vermont. Above: Dr. Norman Levy describes his solar Community Impact investment at the 2019 Vermont Energy & Climate Action Network conference.
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Many of his colleagues stay connected with medicine even in retirement. Norm, however, felt that he didn’t want to continue in this field. Admittedly, he didn’t know much about energy or solar, but he started by joining the Norwich Energy Committee— a municipal committee filled with volunteers. “We have a variety of backgrounds,” he says, including members with administration, government, and political experience. And there are some like Norm who come from other employment backgrounds.
STARTING WITH THE BASICS One of the first things Norm learned about through the committee—and his warmup act—was LED light bulbs. An LED bulb costs two dollars and can save a household 12 dollars per year per bulb. “That was low-hanging fruit,” says Norm, who, with the Norwich Energy Committee, combined charitable donations and small grants from the Norwich Women’s Club and the New England Grass Roots Environment Fund to ultimately purchase
over 3,000 bulbs. The bulbs were distributed at no charge to nonprofits serving low-income populations, individuals, and businesses, including many that he distributed at booths at the local dump and the general store in order to raise awareness. He doesn’t claim responsibility for the idea (or for any subsequent ideas). “Is there really such thing as an ‘original’ idea?” he asks, noting that Efficiency Vermont and other nonprofits have plenty of original programs and practices. As he continued on the Norwich Energy Committee, Norm continued to learn—and he continued to watch for ways to make a difference. He learned about solar arrays and tax laws set up to encourage people to make the switch to clean solar power. He learned about net metering, whereby the owner of an array sells energy to a power company for credits. He learned that, while a private owner may be eligible for certain refunds, tax laws make the return on investment much quicker and more advantageous for a third-party investor. Finally, Norm learned about a housing trust (Twin Pines Housing) that had built a small neighborhood of low-income homes on Starlake Lane in Norwich. Norm saw his opportunity. AN IDEA TAKES SHAPE Partnering with Twin Pines and Norwich Solar Technologies, a business that finances, builds, installs, and maintains solar projects, Norm set out to build a solar array that would provide power at a discount to the 14 homes on Starlake Lane. Norm financed the project. Troy McBride, cofounder of Norwich Solar Technologies, explained to Norm that he could cover his investment in just five years. Because his goal was to benefit the residents of the low-income neighborhood, Norm offered them a deeper discount, meaning his return on investment will take seven years. “The hardest part was explaining to the residents that it was a good deal for them,” Norm says. “They kept asking, ‘What’s the catch?’”
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“Our purpose in life is to make the world a better place,” he says, “to extend benefits to those who are usually last in line. I had an impact on my local community, and that feels great.” This is not to say that the project was easy. There were plenty of hurdles—legal red tape, permitting, lawyers, contracts, and applications. Which is where Troy and Norwich Solar Technologies came in. “A percentage of our business is net metering agreements,” says Troy. Often, a business will fund a project and sell discounted energy to a nonprofit because nonprofits don’t qualify for tax credits. Further, in this case, the solar array was built on land owned by Twin Pines, so this complicated the deal. Norm’s solar array—owned by his LLC that he appropriately named Norm and Sun, LLC—went live in July 2019 after two years of effort. “I did it because I wanted to show it could be done,” says Norm. “Someone like me can help low-income populations.” Through net metering, says Norm, his electricity is sold to Green Mountain Power and then assigned to the Starlake homes. The residents pay Norm for the power at a 20 percent reduction from the corporate rate. “Norm’s project is unique, although we have a number of individual impact investors like him,” Troy says. Now that he has accomplished his goal, Norm wants others to do the same—and he would meet with, talk to, or counsel anyone interested. “Our purpose in life is to make the world a better place,” he says, “to extend benefits to those who are usually last in line. I had an impact on my local community, and that feels great.” TW Norwich Solar Technologies 15 Railroad Row White River Junction, VT (802) 281-3213 norwichsolar.com
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BY DEAN WHITLOCK PHOTOS COURTESY OF VALLEY ARTESIAN WELL COMPANY
DISCUSS YOUR WATER NEEDS
WITH AN EXPERT VALLEY ARTESIAN WELL COMPANY PROVIDES THOUGHTFUL SOLUTIONS AND PEACE OF MIND
M
ost people don’t associate well drilling with remodeling, but it can be an important factor. If you plan to add bedrooms or a Jacuzzi, your existing well might not deliver enough water. Minerals might stain your new fixtures. Your well might even run dry. Well drilling companies over the years have diversified to become pump and filtration experts in addition to drilling. Newer variable speed pump systems deliver constant pressure, and there has never been a greater emphasis on the purity of our drinking water. “The water business for us is all about quantity, quality, and pressure,” says Ken White of Valley Artesian Well Company in Ascutney, Vermont. Ken has been in the business for 30 years and dealt with nearly every conceivable situation. He shares his knowledge so you’ll know what’s involved and what it might cost.
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“It is hard, sometimes dirty, and often relentless work,” Ken says, “but after we are done, when people can turn on the water, breathe a sigh of relief, and thank us for our service, it’s always a comforting ride home.”
What Type of Well? First off, you might not need a new well. A filtration system or new pump might solve the problem, or you might be able to improve water production from an artesian well. An artesian well is drilled deep into bedrock to reach an aquifer that is under hydrostatic pressure strong enough to force the water upward, sometimes to overflowing. Water moves through the bedrock in fractures fed by rainwater seeping in from higher terrain. In our region, artesian wells average between 200 and 400 feet deep, though Ken has drilled wells as shallow as 56 feet and deeper than 1,000. By contrast, dug wells range from 10 to 16 feet deep in the soil layer and will be lined with three-foot diameter tiles to create a reservoir. Being shallow, dug wells are far more susceptible to drought and contamination from runoff. A drilled well has a much larger reservoir and is lined with six-inch diameter metal casings sealed to the bedrock to keep out contamination from above. When a dug well fails, it’s usually replaced with a drilled well. A well’s production is measured in gallons per minute, or gpm. In a drilled well, gpm depends on the fractures in the surrounding bedrock. According to Ken, the ice age was kind to New England—it did a great job fracturing the bedrock. An average drilled well in the Upper Valley produces five gpm, or 7,200 gallons per day. Since most households use 150 to 250 gallons per day, there’s usually no problem.
Anatomy of a Drilled Bedrock Well
Valley Artesian’s 70,000-pound well rig set up and drilling on a site in Brownsville, Vermont.
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But Ken also says, “Every well is different, and every job is a new opportunity for exploration. How far to bedrock? What kind of bedrock will we be drilling through and how hard is the rock? How much water do we need for a successful project? These questions keep it interesting.” Some wells produce only one gpm, some households have a pool or irrigation system, and sometimes the bedrock fractures get blocked by silt. In those cases, Ken recommends a video examination down the well. Drilling deeper may provide a larger reservoir or better fracturing. A second possibility is hydrofracturing, which shoots high-pressure water at the existing fractures to clear the silt. Ken compares it to a stent into an artery. Water well hydrofracturing uses only chlorinated water and pressures much lower than those used when fracking for oil, so the process is safe for people and the aquifer. In Ken’s experience, it’s almost always successful.
Ken White works with his hydrofrac rig.
Where to Drill? If you need to drill a new well, the next consideration after gpm is where to drill. That’s usually when dowsing comes up. “Every year we have requests to drill on spots selected by dowsers,” Ken says. “We have seen some predictions be
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startlingly accurate, and just as many predictions be just as inaccurate. Dowsing is an art and I respect the art, but for most sites the location is determined by permits, setback requirements, and access issues.” Other challenges to location include overhead power lines, trees, steep or uneven terrain, wet ground (a well-drilling truck weighs 70,000 pounds!), and bedrock on the surface, which requires additional insulation to protect the water lines in February. Winter cold is generally an issue for well drilling, so it’s wise to wait for warmer weather.
Other Considerations The cost of a project depends on the depth of soil above bedrock, the total depth, and the required gpm. Pumping and filtration systems add their shares. Currently, Ken says, complete projects cost between $6,500 and $10,000. He encourages owners to drill early in the process. “If we drill a short one and save some money, perhaps they can afford the special granite countertops. If we have to go deeper, perhaps the deck will have to wait a year. The best we can do is be sure we understand how our customer intends to use their water, inside and outside of the house, and then be sure that we deliver the well and pump system that will meet their needs and expectations.” He also recommends using an experienced company with a certified crew. Ken himself is currently serving his third term as president of the Vermont Ground Water Association in an effort to help guide and steward the profession into a future that can shine for its younger members. He requires his entire crew to attend as many training sessions as possible and is proud that his son Skip has just passed the test to become a National Groundwater Certified Well Driller. “It is hard, sometimes dirty, and often relentless work,” Ken says, “but after we are done, when people can turn on the water, breathe a sigh of relief, and thank us for our service, it’s always a comforting ride home.” TW Valley Artesian Well Company, Inc. 6248 Route 5 Ascutney, VT (802) 674-6493 valleyartesian.com
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REAL ESTATE | BY KATHERINE P. COX
LINDEMAC REAL ESTATE OFFERS LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND A COMMITMENT TO CLIENTS
It’s a Seller’s Market
Linde McNamara Principal Broker Owner
What should home sellers know about the real estate market in the Upper Valley? Here in the Upper Valley, we are fortunate that two of our largest employers—Dartmouth College and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Memorial Hospital— have always provided a certain stability in our market. At the present time, due to low inventory, it is a seller’s market. Through a Realtor’s market analysis, a seller can begin to understand the value of the area they live in. The purpose of this analysis will help the seller price their house correctly, and as a result, it will most likely sell quickly. A seller should keep in mind that the type of neighborhood, the schools, nearby parks, and commute times all add to the value of their house. What should homeowners do to prepare their homes for sale? It’s helpful to have a Realtor do a walkthrough prior to having a market analysis done. They can be a second pair of eyes for the seller. From experience, a Realtor will be able to tell the seller what should be put away and what should be touched up. Decluttering and removing personal items will make the house look fresh and clean. Eliminating clutter from the garage and outside yard will improve curb appeal. Buyers value cleanliness. Deep clean the house from top to bottom and don’t
forget the windows. Fresh flowers on the dining room table and a fire in the fireplace will contribute to a special feeling in a home. Is it worth it to update bathrooms and kitchens? Most of the time the answer is no. It’s better to price your house accordingly, factoring in the age of the current bathrooms and kitchen. What the seller chooses for upgrades could be the opposite of what is appealing to the current market. The home buyer may end up updating and changing these new bathrooms and kitchen to their own tastes, so the expense to the seller for making these improvements before putting the house on the market may not be a sound financial decision. What sets you apart from other real estate companies in the region? When you hire LindeMac Real Estate, you don’t just get a sales agent, you get a team of professionals with decades of experience in Upper Valley real estate. We provide attentive service to our clients’ specific needs. Our job is to know your property inside and out and to be there for every showing. Experience, local knowledge, a team approach, availability, and commitment to our clients—and the fact that we love what we do—set us apart! TW
44 South Main Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-4900 www.lindemac.com 70 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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Hanover: Connecticut River frontage
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The newly defined step-down dining room features seating, table linens, and window treatments fabricated in Gilberte Interiors’ workrooms. The chandelier, from Vermont’s Hubbardton Forge, adds soft light and shape.
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BY CHERYL BOGHOSIAN, ASID, GILBERTE INTERIORS PHOTOS BY CHARLES PARKER, IMAGES PLUS
A MODERN
VERMONT CLASSIC TURNING A HOUSE INTO A HOME
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e feel lucky every day to live in this fantastic part of the world, and we always enjoy the opportunity to welcome new neighbors to the area. This particular family had long wanted to have a home in Vermont. As avid outdoor enthusiasts, they fell in love the possibility of having skiing, hiking, and biking all available right outside their front door. We already knew them well from having worked together on their city home, so they brought us in for a first consult before they closed on this new house. Building on our understanding of the family and their lifestyle, we were able to quickly refine their goals, outline the requirements needed, and set to work on a master plan. They loved the location and wanted a New England country feel with rooms flowing together with spaces for children, for relaxing, and for entertaining all woven together with a cohesive look throughout the home, with furnishings that are attractive yet durable enough to survive family life. The baths were sorely in need of an update, and they presented the opportunity for us to reimagine them with clean lines, minimalist decor, and ample storage.
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A house is fundamentally a collection of spaces, sometimes separated, sometimes blended, and by adjusting how a person moves from one to the next, we can significantly alter the utility and feel of a space for the better. Often, by simply changing the access from one space to the next, you can make a huge impact. 74 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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Small Changes Make a Big Impact Coming in on a project that early is incredibly helpful for everyone. We focus on existing conditions and areas that can be improved. We hone in on how small improvements can make the greatest impact while defining where it makes sense to work around what is already there. As a professional, I see spaces differently—I think in terms of both the flow of what is there now and how a few small changes in the footprint could have a big impact in the quality of access from one space to the next. A house is fundamentally a collection of spaces, sometimes separated, sometimes blended, and by adjusting how a person moves from one to the next, we can significantly alter the utility and feel of a space for the better. Often, by simply changing the access from one space to the next, you can make a huge impact. In this house, the master bedroom and its closets were one space. Actually, it had a wall of closets with doors. We proposed taking off the closet doors and putting a single pocket door in place. That would mean going from broken spaces with intrusive doors to a large walk-in closet with three interior walls of usable space. It would all be easier to access, but with the pocket door, the closet could also be closed off the from the bedroom. We shared layouts, material suggestions, lighting plans, and a broad range of fine details. Based on our preliminary plans to update three of the bathrooms, we knew which subcontractors to bring on to deliver the finished results they desired. To facilitate the project
Opposite: The master bedroom includes custom walnut furniture along with bedding and upholstery fabricated in the Gilberte Interiors workrooms. Inset: Creating a spot for the family to gather at a handcrafted cherry table is a fantastic use for this window nook. Above: Selecting a palette of new color tones and natural textures created a fresh living room. Inset: A “before” view of the living room shows dark red walls and heavy dark window blinds.
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and make it as easy as possible for the family, who lived a few hours’ drive away, we assembled a talented team, from the contractor through key specialists and painters, to implement our designs and get the project rolling. We outlined the renovations with detailed construction plans, lighting and plumbing placements, and tile and fixture specifications.
Tending to Every Detail Our ability to design, specify, and provide all materials for our projects made this easier for both our clients and the contractor. Details such as changing all the door and cabinet hardware were included in the scope and we provided materials individually marked for each door to make our contractor’s installation that much more efficient. Once we started the renovation, by working closely with the contractor, we discovered the ceilings were unnecessarily low. We could raise them by a foot to provide more space and a more open feel. We took pictures and explained these decisions to the family remotely while also overseeing all the finishes, including painters and tile installers. Our job was to bring along our clients’ eyes when appropriate and facilitate everything from selection of materials through the completion of the finer details. The tradespeople knew we were ready to answer every question they might have, all the way to exactly where the drain of the shower was going to go and where towel bars would be hung.
Open Communication, Less Stress In a renovation project, there are literally thousands of small choices being made by someone. Most of those are ones we will oversee and make, but for the bigger questions, it is very valuable to have input from our clients. Our goal is always to take the stress out of a process that can overwhelm people. As a professional, I can visualize many things that most cannot. As the project begins to take shape, most homeowners slowly gain more context to make the next decisions, whereas at the beginning, everything can feel pretty abstract. Our role is to bring homeowners along at a comfortable but efficient pace. For this particular client, we connected weekly on email and spoke on the phone to discuss more complex decisions. I would send pictures and if we had questions, we would plan a follow-up phone call. On other projects, I normally send emails with photos of the project in progress to keep them in the loop. If a client is on-site, we plan to have weekly meetings. Once we had finished updating all the finishes and the contractors had swept up the last of the sawdust, we arrived with our finishing team to turn this house into their home. Furnishings, lighting, accessories, and bedding had been carefully selected, meticulously constructed, and staged in our New Hampshire warehouse. We finished by fabricating the window treatments and putting them in place so that when the moving truck finally pulled away from the curb, we could all look around and see that this new house already felt like home. TW Removing all existing fixtures and tile was the first step in creating a bathroom with a larger glass-enclosed shower, improved lighting, and a serene feel.
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Gilberte Interiors, Inc. 10 Allen Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-3727 gilberteinteriors.com
COMMUNICATION IS KEY
STUDIO SAGE INTERIORS WORKS WITH CLIENTS EARLY ON TO DELIVER DESIRED OUTCOMES PHOTOS BY ROBYN IVY PHOTOGRAPHY 78 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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We asked Amanda Raymond, principal designer at Studio Sage Interiors in New London, New Hampshire, to explain how she approaches a project and how her design process unfolds. How and where do you start? Often with renovation/remodeling projects we are involved from the very beginning. Whenever possible we communicate directly with contractors alongside our clients to determine the scope, work out prices, and make collective decisions. Ideally, we discuss the project with the client and plan these elements with them before any work begins, accounting for every detail, large or small. Sometimes we come in before a contractor has been selected to develop plans to then give to a contractor to review, price, and ultimately work from. We remain that contractor’s point of contact throughout the building process, as renovations are notorious for unseen challenges and opportunities. Above: Rich with history, this Boston church converted into a private residence is all about natural light and cozy texture. Group of three framed photographs by Debbi Krim, gray glass vessel under the framed photos by Toots Zynsky. The right wall features an ink and resin on panel by Estelle Chojnicki.
How do you communicate what will be happening to the homeowner? Communication with the homeowner is constant and thorough. It’s truly the most important task we perform. We do a combination
Right: Layering, Studio Sage’s secret to success, makes this marble-top dining table the topic of conversation at dinner.
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of email threads, phone conversations, and in-person meetings, depending on the client’s preferences and availability to manage the project expectations. Many of these conversations involve all three parties—designer, contractor, and
client—to make sure everyone’s input is heard and all details are accounted for. We make sure that the homeowner is happy with all choices being made and knows where the project stands at every step.
How do you work within their budget? We always discuss budget at the inception of the project in order to help them build a scope of work that will fit within it. We provide the homeowner with
The dream team, Amanda Raymond, Studio Sage (left) and Candita Clayton, Candita Clayton Gallery.
Fine Art Meets Fine Interior Design
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here are many ways your home speaks to your personality. The colors you choose, the style of furnishings, and the accents you decorate with all play a role in telling your story through the presentation of your space. However, fine art may be the most personal expression of taste and style and one of the keystones of your home. This is why Candita Clayton of Candita Clayton Galleries has made art her business. She’s teamed up with local interior designer Amanda Raymond of Studio Sage Interiors, and these women have very quickly become the local authority on marrying fine art and fine interior design. “I began seeking partnerships with designers early on in my art career. It became clear to me that the design community was hungry for options to present to their clients,” says Candita. “When designers can introduce an amazing signature piece into a project, their client instantly becomes a collector. Buying art is addictive and fulfilling. We love introducing our clients to the work of both regional and national artists.” The two began selecting artwork for clients in 2017 and have since been curating personal collections of art throughout New England. “Once we began integrating original works of fine art into our designs, our projects went to another level,” says Amanda. “One-of-a-kind pieces that our clients connect with are profoundly impactful on the personalization of their project and ultimately how they feel when they enjoy their space. It’s truly one of the things that we look forward to most about what we do.” We’ve recently found ourselves in the unique position of being confined to our homes. You could call it a state of next-level nesting. As we spend more time at home, everything that makes us feel good or bad about our space stands out and forces us through the editing process of what is truly important. This time of confinement creates the opportunity to see the importance of creating a sanctuary of sorts right at home. TW
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Center: The composition of a space is determined by details, such as plants, accents, and personal objects. Amanda and Candita hang a black and white enamel on canvas by Ben Pell. Below: Original art by Mimo Gordon Riely over this vintage sideboard adds color and whimsy to a lakefront dining room.
pricing as we decide on materials, so they have a clear idea of how much everything costs and where things can change if needed. Our clients often like to be very involved in the process and we make informed decisions as a team. Tell us why it’s better for you to come in sooner rather than later. A huge benefit of having a designer in your corner early on in the process is our extensive knowledge for scale and human factors. As the perimeters of spaces are being allocated in the building envelope, a conceptual layout of furnishings and traffic patterns is very important to be sure the spaces are neither undersized nor oversized. Room adjacencies, function, and sizes are important factors to consider and are tailored to the way our clients use their home. It is determined by a series of meetings and discussions and lays the groundwork for a successful finished project. Being involved in the project sooner rather than later means that every decision made contributes to the homeowner’s ultimate goal. We’re there to make sure their ideas become reality; we determine their style, budget, and functionality needs, and then make sure the materials and design achieve all three. By combining our design experience with the contractor’s expertise, we account for every detail, plan for potential issues, and help the homeowner make informed decisions. TW Studio Sage has been selected by Architectural Digest as one of four New Hampshire designers considered to be leading the interior design industry. A full-page studio feature will be included in the June 2020 issue of their national magazine. Studio Sage 210 Main Street New London, NH (603) 526-2121 studiosageinteriors.com
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BY TAREAH GRAY PHOTOS COURTESY OF CLAREMONT CUSTOM FRAMING
Breathing New Life intoArt
CLAREMONT C U STO M F R A M I N G O F F E R S H A R D -T O FIND SERVICES
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rt lovers have been trusting Claremont Custom Framing with their beloved possessions since 1975. The shop has served as the go-to place for framing treasured heirlooms, cherished pictures, and precious paintings but is also an unexpected local resource for museum-quality art preser-
vation, repair, and professional cleaning. Services at the Claremont shop include custom framing of original prints, lithographs, posters, needlework, and paintings as well as cleaning, repairing, and conserving oil paintings and photographs. “We have provided this service for more than 40 years to worldwide customers,” says owner David Putnam, who runs the business with his wife Cindy. “There are many art collectors and galleries in the region that we have serviced because cleaning an oil painting successfully is a delicate undertaking, particularly if it’s old or has signs of damage such as cracked or chipped paint. The entire process is one that demands care and attention to detail,” says David. “There aren’t many resources for that in this area because it is a specialized skill, and specialized equipment is needed.”
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David Putnam retouches damaged paint at his home studio on an early 1900s oil painting recently relined and cleaned.
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Frames are chosen using three criteria: size, color, and design. The size relates to the perspectives in the picture; the color relates to contrast, tones, and colors in the picture; and “the style and design help your eyes see the work in the picture, and to experience the art as it was intended� says David.
Clockwise from top: A cleaned oil painting with 22k gold leaf period-specific frame samples. Original etching by Stephen Parrish with period-specific frame and French mat samples. Abstract photograph by David Putnam with frame samples.
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David and Cindy Putnam of Claremont Custom Framing with a New York City client’s oil painting in need of relining, cleaning, and repair due to badly cracked paint, a service not common to the region.
“Over the years we’ve performed this work on artwork ranging from very old to very new and from highvalue museum artwork to equally important family heirlooms to all sorts of work that our customers find important for one reason or another.”
David and Cindy perform their magic in both their Claremont shop and a home studio nearby. David loves the studio work, and many Claremont Custom Framing customers have come to consider David an artist in his own right. “I’ve always been creative,” says David. “Growing up in Walpole, New Hampshire, I started working in drawing, painting, and photography when I was nine. My father had a darkroom. I had many opportunities to meet people who had art in their lives. A lot of people who embraced me enjoyed having a young person interested in art, especially in their collections.” CLIENTS NEAR AND FAR David has maintained the collections of several art collectors. One of his mentors did a lot of work for New England museums. He and Cindy, who grew up in Sunapee, New Hampshire, have clients from as far away as Russia and Europe. “Over the years we’ve performed this work on artwork ranging from very old to very new and from high-value museum artwork to equally important family heirlooms to all sorts of work that our customers find important for one reason or another,” says David, who started out as a studio photographer in Claremont in 1969 and still does fine-art photography today.
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Left and below: Example of an early 1900s oil painting before cleaning and at the beginning of the cleaning process. Bottom: An oil painting is prepared for relining on a special relining table. Opposite: One of several original paintings of rural New Mexico by Bellows Falls, Vermont, artist Charlie Hunter, custom framed in walnut with a hand-rubbed stain and burnished wax finish.
For those paintings with damage, David can also reline them, a delicate process of adhering the painting with a special wax to a new canvas material. This stabilizes the artwork, helps stop tears, and will reattach the paint. He can then retouch and “inpaint� with the appropriate shades and textures of paint to return the painting as close to original as possible.
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“Frames subtly and not-so-subtly shape the viewer’s experience of the art, adding to or detracting from how the artist intended for it to be experienced.” He purchased the framing business in 1975, and it has been at its current location since 1977. David credits his success to persistence, consistency, and good relationships with customers and other professionals. “I was very fortunate to have sought out and met experts from around the country very accomplished in their framing expertise and in art conservation,” says David. “Many of these became friends and mentors, imparting on me a great deal of knowledge over many years. Their continued guidance encouraged me to develop my work into what it is today.” Claremont Custom Framing’s services include general cleaning, repair, and varnishing of paintings. For those paintings with damage, David can also reline them, a delicate process of adhering the painting with a special wax to a new canvas material. This stabilizes the artwork, helps stop tears, and will reattach the paint. He can then retouch and “in-paint” with the appropriate shades and textures of paint to return the painting as close to original as possible. “Recently, a customer brought to us a painting that had been damaged by smoke and fire,” says David. “We had to clean and repair it before repainting one-third of the missing scene.” PERIOD-SPECIFIC FRAMING Period-appropriate framing, photo restoration, and custom printing also round out the myriad services of Claremont Custom Framing. Frames are chosen using three criteria:
size, color, and design. The size relates to the perspectives in the picture; the color relates to contrast, tones, and colors in the picture; and “the style and design help your eyes see the work in the picture, and to experience the art as it was intended” says David. “It’s been our intention to select period-specific frames from the very beginning of my work as a professional framer,” says David. “I’ve always had the opinion that a framing professional should study and appreciate art history to understand this. That’s not to say that we can’t be creative in framing (and rules are sometimes broken for effect), but when it comes to important artwork, our first approach is to be mindful of the period.” There’s a science behind the art of custom framing. “Frames subtly and not-so-subtly shape the viewer’s experience of the art, adding to or detracting from how the artist intended for it to be experienced,” says David. “Good framing helps you see the artwork first in an authentic way as opposed to noticing the frame before the art.” TW Claremont Custom Framing and David Putnam Photography 150 Pleasant Street Claremont, NH (603) 543-9992 davputnam@comcast.net facebook.com/claremont.customframing .davidputnam.photography Mon–Fri 9am–5pm Sat 9am–2pm www.uppervalleyimage.com •
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BY ANNE RICHTER ARNOLD
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PHOTOS BY JOHN W. HESSION
Simple furniture lines, a subtle color palette, and a picture-perfect lake view make this kitchen sitting area a delightful place to enjoy morning coffee.
A Lakeside Dreamhouse
SARAH CHAPIN WORKS HER DECORATIVE MAGIC
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The classical architectural elements of the open-plan first floor paired with the rustic fieldstone fireplace and informal seating in a mix of patterns creates an informal yet gracious living space. Opposite: Architect for the home was Peter White and Associates and the builder was McGray & Nichols. Both firms are located in New London.
“My client wanted this to be a family gathering place, so that was the focus of the design work. . . . I kept that vision in mind as I created the design plan for the home,â€? says Sarah. 90 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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rofessionally designed interiors seem effortless in the way that color, texture, and form have come together to create a beautiful space. Behind the
scenes, in the months or even years of work that it takes to create a well-designed home, there has been a concerted effort, all coordinated by the interior designer. For Sarah Chapin, principal of Chapin Interiors, the process is like directing an orchestra, as all the pieces come together into the realization of her vision for her clients.
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Boat building design and details are the hallmark of the gabled boathouse interior. Opposite: Embroidered linen shades, striped window seat cushion fabric, and soft bed linens create an inviting guest room.
The top deck of the boathouse serves as the family’s water sports clubhouse.
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Her recent project, a 9,000-square-foot lakeside retreat in the Sunapee area, is an example of how she works her magic to create a dream home that is not only stylish but functional. “There is always a starting point for me and that changes with each project, depending on if I am involved with the architectural plans or after,” says Sarah. “But ultimately everything really starts with the client, by learning their style, understanding their needs and tastes. The start of a project is exciting as I learn what they want to do at a new property.” She continues, “My client wanted this to be a family gathering place, so that was the focus of the design work. I got involved at a point where the plans were made but we were still able to refine the architectural plans and customize them to the style of the clients. The tone was established by the architecture, as my clients wanted it to feel comfortable and casual, a kind of place where you could put your feet up and relax. I kept that vision in mind as I created the design plan for the home,” says Sarah.
Helping Clients Figure Out their Style The first meeting is usually to get to know the scope of the project and the needs of the client. Depending on when she comes into the project, Sarah may work to refine the architectural plans, or simply be involved post fact, as she was for the lake house, in determining the millwork, lighting locations, bathroom and kitchen designs, and type of installed window treatments.
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A view of the sun-filled foyer, music room, and main staircase from the living room.
“My job in the initial meetings is to help clients figure out their own style. It is not something one knows intrinsically,” says Sarah. “With this project, my client and I reviewed images that we collected independently. We also looked at fabric and carpet samples to see what textures and colors she likes. It took two to three sessions to get a good handle on my client’s style. As we got going with the project, I continued to run additional ideas and samples by her, and the design aesthetic got more and more narrowly defined.”
Offering Guidance and Support “Whether it’s a large project like the lake house, designing a custom home, or a simple renovation, the sheer number of decisions that a homeowner faces can be overwhelming,” says Sarah. “My job is not only to guide my clients through the process and help them make design choices, but also to be part of the physical process, supporting the architect and the contractor during construction, so that 94 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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all the pieces come together in a timely fashion throughout the project.” For Sarah, her most important tasks are keeping the process streamlined, on time, and stress free. By being involved in all phases of each project, managing even the smallest of details, she and her design team are focused on creating the easiest experience and best results for the homeowner. An important aspect of Sarah’s responsibilities is to keep ahead of what the contractor needs to have on hand during the construction process, like specifying the stone and tile, paint colors, millwork, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, and other details. “Once we defined the look, we could choose items and give specifications to the architect and contractor to incorporate into the plans. There are so many small details that you do not think about until you are part of a project, like decorative light fixtures and window treatments. It is so much more than just the furnishings. My job was to make sure
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that they were ordered and ready as the contractor needed them.” During the project, Sarah met with her client numerous times, monthly if not weekly, sometimes at a vendor to choose items like tile or stone, at a showroom to choose furnishings, and even at antique stores to find the perfect one-of-a-kind piece to complete the look. They also met regularly at the project site to review progress, see installed items, and make necessary decisions.
Organized to the Very End As the light fixtures, tiles, furnishings, and other components of the project come in, they are warehoused until needed. The final step, bringing in the furnishings, which includes the bed linens, towels, and accessories in the home, can be quite chaotic. Coordination between the contractor and the designer is crucial, especially as the project comes to a close. “Most times the clients are not around for the installation, as the final weeks are very stressful and a lot is going on all at once—window treatments going up, carpet going in, furniture arriving,” says Sarah. “Installation of a project this size took two weeks. When the homeowners came into the house for the first time with everything completed, it was great! We had wine and cheese and champagne to celebrate a successful project and their lovely new home.” Sarah is passionate about her work, which she says is really a collaboration between the architect, the contractor, the client, and herself. “For me, interior design and working on large projects like the lake house is innate, and I love doing it. I find it so gratifying to guide the client through the process, because it can be overwhelming, and see the look of happiness on their faces when everything comes together to be the realization of their vision.” TW
Chapin Interiors New London, NH (914) 361-1157 chapininteriors.com
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nstone wallpaper
Schumacher Agra Shimmer Moo
TRUE COLORS
TURN TO THE EXPERTS FOR BEAUTIFUL RESULTS Veranda magazine reports that neutrals are turning warmer, as seen in shades like camel and parchment, but in the Upper Valley, Jeff Wilmot says that people are still choosing grays and soft neutrals. “They’re easy colors to build from,” he says. “Wallpaper installations are on the upswing in the area,” Jeff says, “and clients are papering smaller areas in their homes, such as hallways, entries, and baths more so than main living areas. Nature themes are popular, but we’ve also installed some bolder patterns with large prints, floral motifs, and geometric patterns.” In the kitchen, customers are keeping their hardwood cabinets and calling Jeff and his crew in to paint them and add new hardware. “A large percentage of people choose white, 98 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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off-white, or gray shades for the cabinets and often make the island a darker color,” he says. Regarding remodeling jobs, Jeff says communication is key. “We’re usually called in by the builder or general contractor, but all the trades need to talk to each other—the carpenter, the electrician, the plumber, and so forth,” Jeff explains. Jeff has been assisting area residents with their painting needs for more than 40 years, and the company is known for customer service, reliability, and quality. TW Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering, Inc. 23 Lyon Road South Royalton, VT (802) 763-2055
“Although we find trends interesting and gray is still popular, as are soft, muted colors, trends are not necessarily the answer to everyone’s decorating goals. After all, not everyone likes gray. At Lebanon Paint & Decorating, we approach our customers individually by getting to know them, their preferences, and their projects.” —Maria Voege, Design Specialist Lebanon Paint & Decorating
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Color of the Year
Pantone’s 2020 Color of the Year
Classic Blue
Mix it with Benjamin Moore’s 2020 color First
“We are living in a time that requires trust and faith,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “It is this kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed by Pantone Classic Blue.” “Today’s changing technology, environmental concerns, and cultural and economic influences are all shaping how we live,” says Hannah Yeo, Color & Design Manager at Benjamin Moore & Co. “More than ever, we expect the home to provide security, comfort, community, self-expression, and optimism.” First Light conveys an upbeat, optimistic vibe. TW
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Light
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INSURANCE | BY KATHY GALLUZZO
EXPERT ADVICE ON COMMON—AND UNCOMMON—CONCERNS
Guaraldi Agency Tim Guaraldi Owner, Primary Agent
The Guaraldi Agency has been in business in Lebanon, New Hampshire, since 1969. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our current and past clients for allowing us to provide their insurance protection. I’d also like to commend our team for their ongoing dedication and continuing education to provide our clients with the best information in protecting the things and people they love. Cumulatively, we have well over 200 years of experience! Let me share with you a few uncommon insurance concerns many people have. FLOOD INSURANCE Flood insurance is required when you purchase a home that is in an area that has experienced flooding at any time in the last 100 years. Did you know it is also available if you are a tenant or live in a condominium? What about a residence located on a mountainside? You might ask why flood insurance would be necessary, but if there is a source of water (a brook or pond) above you that overflows, only flood insurance will cover the damage your home might incur.
YOUR HOME OR VACATION HOME IS A RENTAL Your standard homeowners, tenants, or condo policy does not provide coverage—in fact, renting your home to others might negate your policy coverage. If you are going to be participating in renting, be sure to review your coverage with a Licensed Insurance Agent. VACANT PROPERTY Even if you are away only for a couple weeks, you may not be covered for frozen pipes and the ensuing damage if your property is not monitored. No one wants to come home to damage from frozen pipes, but it can be even more devastating to learn that your insurance coverage will not assist with the costs of repairs because the property was vacant. Talk with your local Licensed Insurance Agent for ideas to avoid that problem. HOW CAN WE AVOID ACCIDENTS IN OUR HOMES? Maintain the exterior of your home by checking that stairs and railings are secure and that walkways are level with no chips or cracks. If an elderly person is in the home, make sure he or she has the equipment needed to maneuver safely. Pick up area rugs and ensure that edges of carpeting are tacked down securely. Talk with your Professional Insurance Agent to be sure you know what is—and more importantly, what is not—covered. TW
21 Bank Street Lebanon, NH (603) 448-3250 www.guaraldi.com
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Four Seasons Couch Allysa Collection
BY TAREAH GRAY
Signature Design by Ashley Lamps and Lighting Jailene Wall Sconce
LOCAL RETAILERS KNOW BEST Love’s Bedding & Furniture “Slipcover furniture is huge for us,” says Laura Love at Love’s Bedding and Furniture. “We have a lot of customers with lake homes, and they love the practicality of durable slipcovers in Sunbrella fabrics. They just throw them in the washer, and they can also order an extra set to change the look.” Leather sofas, chairs, and sectionals in blues and reds are popular, and Laura says with the arrival of warm weather, outdoor furniture sales are hot. The 24-year-old family-owned business offers in-home design services.
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Klaussner Bosco Sectional Couch
Lunoto Fabric Stationary Chair Belle Isle Sling Seating Group in Blue by Telescope Casual Furniture
Tips from Brown Furniture
Belle Isle 2-Seat Glider by Telescope Casual Furniture
Brad Nelson, owner of Brown Furniture, now in its eighth decade, is seeing an increased demand for high-end outdoor furniture this year. “People want their outdoor furniture to have the same style and touch as their indoor furniture,” says Brad. His wife Alyssa Shatford reports this year’s hot colors are classic blue, succulent green, and warm blush. “Customers are bringing those colors into a room by way of sofas, throw pillows, or a freshly painted wall,” she says. When selecting furniture, “Sometimes people go for style and they are uncomfortable when they sit in it,” says Brad. “Start with being comfortable and then make it your own by choosing the right fabric. “When you walk into the store, the salespeople work with you to take care of every need you have,” says Brad. “They will also go out to customers’ homes to get an idea of the space they have and work together to define exactly what they are looking for.” TW
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Brian Patrick Flynn for Crysto Rama TRUAX 1 Light Polished Nickel Mini Chandelier
Fletcher 2-Light Unique / Statement Globe Chandelier By Hinkley Lighting
Light Up Your Life MAKE A STATEMENT WITH UNIQUE FIXTURES After having a lighting showroom for 15 years, Creative Lighting Designs owner Brian Horan has changed his business model to a lighting consulting company. “I have always met with clients on job sites, consulted, and helped with the overall lighting design and procurement of fixtures,” Brian says, “but now we do this full-time, concentrating on home or business projects. Customers can make an appointment to come to my private showroom, where they can see the latest styles in the lighting industry.” While LED lighting has been around for a few years, the design of many LED fixtures has evolved so that the light source is completely hidden, which minimizes brightness or glare. As for current trends, Brian says, “Opal globe fixtures with dark accents have been hot recently, and the round white globe fixtures that were popular in the 1960s and ’70s are back, but with an interesting twist.” TW Creative Lighting Designs & Decor 85 Mechanic Street, Suite C3-2 Lebanon, NH (603) 448-2066
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BY KATHERINE P. COX PHOTOS BY JIM WESTPHALEN PHOTOGRAPHY
RECLAIMING
AERIE POINT
A 1920S HOMESTEAD IS REBORN A CENTURY LATER
The upper terrace dining area features a bar built into the cut-block wall of local Panton stone.
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W
hat is now a stunning family homestead on the banks of Lake Champlain was once a farm, long ago abandoned and the land left to run wild. The woods were overgrown, and invasive plants had taken over. Today it’s a treasured home where a far-flung family gathers and sheep once again roam the resurrected meadows at Aerie Point. In 2015, Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture was charged with reclaiming the neglected land where the 1920sera main house and farmhouse stood and creating a modern landscape that took in the full scope of the 140 acres of meadows, woods, and shoreline. “The power of the project was how do you marry aesthetics with historical context and environmental stewardship,” says Keith Wagner. They succeeded in keeping the aesthetics of the farm and accommodating the modern uses of its new owners through careful woodland management, shoreline protection measures, and by creating outdoor living spaces, walkways, and curved walls from the local Panton stone.
A badly eroded bluff was reimagined and stabilized as descending terraces. Top left: A gentle approach through farm fields and woods sets visitors up for a dramatic climax.
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“The power of the project was how do you marry aesthetics with historical context and environmental stewardship,” says Keith Wagner.
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This page: The stone wall is broken by a bluestone path linking the house to the ellipse lawn, pool, and pool house, providing a sculptural opportunity for the intersection of the two materials.
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A significant portion of the shoreline had eroded due to historic rains in 2011, offering an opportunity to craft a multilevel terrace. Native plants with extensive root systems will protect against erosion.
Invasive understory plants were removed to unveil the views to the lake and Adirondack mountains. An existing gazebo from 1920 was refurbished and preserved in the woodland glade.
REVEALING THE SPECTACULAR VIEW An existing swimming pool was renovated and a pool house was added, the only new building on the property. They are connected to the main house with a segmented bluestone arc walk, and a long serpentine wall built with local Panton stone ties the main house and pool house together. The outdoor space created around the pool looks south to the lake. “We edited the trees so when you’re at the pool you have a handsome view of the lake,” Keith says. The stone walls throughout the property “are the thread that stiches the property together,” he adds. The main house, which features a Panton stone façade, sits on the bluff above the lake. The abandoned farmhouse from another part of the property was converted into two guesthouses and moved; one sits on land facing White Bay and the other on Arnold Bay. When they first started the project, “you couldn’t see the lake from the house or the driveway,” Keith says. “Our first role was to edit [the trees and shrubs] and open the views.” Because of the site, “we had to be careful about editing. There are limitations on what you can and cannot cut,” says Jeff Hodgson. Working with an arborist they selectively edited the vegetation and invasive shoreline plants, exposing the mature native trees that had been overtaken. Native shoreline plants were planted along the shore for soil stabilization and wildlife habitat. The existing mature trees were then limbedup to open the understory view and provide a scrim of privacy for the estate.
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THOUGHTFUL PLANTINGS AND DESIGN “As we began to put together the master plan, the long driveway—about a half mile—became a major design element,” Jeff says. There were unnecessary side roads and drives on the property dating back to when it was a farm, “and we had to think about what the arrival [along a driveway] would be for a residential property,” he says. They created a country lane lined with existing red maple and pin oak trees interspersed with new plantings of red maples and pin oaks. The driveway goes through woods and meadows and loops around to arrive at the main house. A clearing was created through a section of the woods in front of the house “so that you could see the main house from the driveway,” Keith says. An entrance garden was planted at the house and extensive planting beds were created throughout the property. Three massive Panton stone terraces were built against the bluff to protect the shoreline from further erosion and to provide a variety of leisure and entertainment areas for the family. The land that was seriously eroded from Tropical Storm Irene is now stabilized, “and provides wonderful outdoor spaces for our client,” Keith says. Other environmental interventions were put in place to protect the lake from runoffs from other upland farms. “Because it’s an agricultural area along the lake, uphill farms had runoffs that came through the property,” Keith explains. The existing stream through the property was improved with four stormwater bays to catch sediment from those farms and filter the stormwater before it enters the lake and landscaped with native wetland plants. At Aerie Point, Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture’s respect for the land, its history, and the wishes of their clients combined to create a beautiful landscape and retreat for a modern family. TW
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Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture 430 Warren Street 7 Marble Avenue Hudson, NY Burlington, VT (518) 567-1791 (802) 864-0010 wagnerhodgson.com
REAL ESTATE | BY LORI SHIPULSKI, REGIONAL MANAGER RAISING THE BAR TO SERVE CLIENTS
Four Seasons
Sotheby’s International Realty The real estate industry seems to be changing constantly. How are you able to stay ahead of the trends? The most important attribute any organization can possess is vision—seeing things not as they are today but what they could be tomorrow. Sotheby’s International Realty has consistently been a leading innovator in the real estate industry and was first to market with high-resolution photography, video tours, virtual tours, virtual reality staging apps, and more. Strategic innovation is truly part of our DNA, allowing us to constantly raise our own bar in order to serve our clients well.
Lori Shipulski Regional Manager Upper Valley/REALTOR® CRB® Licensed in NH & VT
Why are buyers choosing to move to the area? Besides employment opportunities, recreation, and retirement, the main reason many people come here (and choose to stay) is the quality of life. The beauty of our region together with access to the natural resources of New Hampshire and Vermont are life-enhancing, and that lifestyle is one that draws people from all over. Our team is well-positioned with professionals in 17 offices in almost every corner of New Hampshire and Vermont. Our team members intimately know the communities in which they work because they are integral members of those communities.
In which specific features are buyers most interested? A few features that come to mind are high-end kitchens, tiled baths, green home technology, and two or more garages. Some features that aren’t necessarily requirements but are nice to have are home gyms, smarthome technology, and outdoor features such as a pond, water frontage, or access to trails. Our area even attracts buyers who are interested in horse or small farm properties. Since many buyers are professionals who have busy schedules, we have seen a trend toward buyers seeking homes in movein condition. In addition, buyers are interested in smaller homes with higher-end finishes as opposed to larger homes that need updating. What do you see for the future of real estate in our area? The market over the next year will be extremely hard to predict given the challenges COVID-19 has placed on people’s lives and on the economy. One positive aspect of our current challenge is that the underlying mechanisms driving this disruption are not economic, as they were in 2008. And it is clear, people are now placing a premium on rural living, especially in a setting with world-class health care facilities and easy access to major metropolitan areas in the Northeast. TW
17.5 Lebanon Street Hanover, NH (603) 643-6070 fourseasonssir.com
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1403 Quechee West Hartford Road, Hartford, VT. 2020
BY CAL FELICETTI, CHIPPERS SALES CONSULTANT & CONSULTING ARBORIST
TREES AND CONSTRUCTION
AN ARBORIST CAN HELP PROTECT AND PRESERVE YOUR TREES
Building or remodeling near mature trees should not be taken lightly. A tree’s life below grade is as important as what we see above grade. It is easy to list the benefits of trees but hard to convince people of the need to respect a tree’s root zone. Communicating clearly with contractors will preserve healthy mature trees from irreversible and unnecessary damage, which can often take years to show itself—long after the contractor is gone. A few key steps can help protect your trees during construction.
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It’s all about protecting your valuable tree during construction, including the new pool.
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#1 PLANNING It is very important to have a plan that includes the trees you value. Any soil disturbance, grade change, or compaction within the root zone is damaging to the tree. The number of roots you preserve during construction will have a corresponding effect on the tree and its health. Consider removal of trees within the construction zone that don’t rate high aesthetically or practically (such as shade). Trees that are in decline or have structural problems such as decay should be removed. Consider the area under the canopy of large trees as sacred ground. Endeavor to preserve the roots from the trunk of the tree out to the drip line (the edge of the canopy). Work within the root zone needs to be carefully planned and executed. Plan early so that your contractor can account for the extra care required when the job begins. Many of these accommodations will cost more money—how important are your trees to you? If you have the luxury of planning a year or more in advance, you can root prune the tree and biologically enhance the root system closer to the trunk. This can give you more room for construction and increase the survivability of the tree. #2 FENCING Fence trees to include at least the area within the drip line. Erect a sturdy fence that is not easily removed. Monitor fences to be sure they haven’t been moved to make room for a storage area, a path for trucks, or a place to rinse off equipment. As the end of the job approaches, do not become complacent. Shade-seeking carpenters and trades people will try to park their vehicles under your prize tree—this must be avoided. #3 OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Keep trees watered during hot, dry weather and add a layer of mulch to hold moisture and to moderate soil temperature. If you have no choice but to allow 120 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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Consider the area under the canopy of large trees as sacred ground. Endeavor to preserve the roots from the trunk of the tree out to the drip line (the edge of the canopy).
Above: A root collar excavation reveals issues related to improper cultural practices such as over watering, over mulching, planting too deeply, and failure to remove potential girdling roots early in the life of the tree. Some of these issues can be corrected, or at the very least improved upon, to increase the longevity of the tree. Left: Radial trenching is a technique used to decompact soil within the root zone of a tree. It allows arborists to add more organic matter to the soil to rejuvenate populations of beneficial microogranisms. It also promotes root growth by improving water and air penetration, which are essential for the development of a healthy root system.
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workers in the root zone area, provide as much protection as possible. Minimize compaction by laying plywood down for vehicles to drive over. If there is a landscape phase of the project, the same rules apply. Irrigation lines installed within the root zone and grade changes, even as little as two inches, can have a negative effect on the health of your mature trees. #4 POST CONSTRUCTION After all of the finish crews are completely done, remove construction fences and remulch trees. Stressed trees are more prone to insect and disease infestation and will require more frequent evaluation. Yearly soil treatments using organic amendments and biostimulants will greatly improve a tree’s ability to overcome any damage that occurred to the soil structure and root system. Hire a certified arborist with skills and experience preserving trees during construction. You and your trees will be the better for it. TW Cal Felicetti is an ASCA Member Consulting Arborist, ISA Certified Arborist, NH Arborist Association Certified Arborist, and VT Association of Professional Horticulturists. Chippers 1241 Pomfret Road Woodstock, VT (802) 457-5100 chippersinc.com
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BY KATHERINE P. COX
A Pure Solutions truck out on a lush summer day in New England. Below: Another tick-safe lawn and garden.
Kyle and his dog Lucy, whom you can usually see in the truck with him and at the office in Lyme.
Ticks and mosquitoes are the bane of our warm-weather existence in New England. We wait all winter to get back outdoors to play, garden, barbecue, and hike. As soon as spring arrives, however, we hear warnings about ticks—or we find ourselves picking them off. Not far behind are summer’s biggest nuisance, mosquitoes. One company is making it fun to be outside again without fear of Lyme disease or mosquito-borne infections. Pure Solutions, owned by Kyle LaCroix of Lyme, New Hampshire, provides safe elimination of ticks and mosquitoes from your property by applying an organic solution that kills them and stops their spread.
ENJOY YOUR BACKYARD AGAIN PURE SOLUTIONS SAFELY ELIMINATES TICKS AND MOSQUITOS
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“We’re such nature lovers in the Upper Valley and everyone’s outside a lot, so we’re faced with ticks and mosquitoes. Our products take care of that. They are made from essential oils, some of which are even OMRI listed, so they’re as close to being certified organic as possible. We don’t mix in any neurotoxins or synthetics. They are safe as can be and still kill ticks and mosquitoes, which reduces the population on properties.” Kyle launched Pure Solutions, a family-owned company started in Massachusetts by his cousins, in this area in 2011. “They were a growing business using the safest products possible and I was excited about the opportunity to be part of the brand,” Kyle says. Ticks and the accompanying Lyme disease are the driving force behind the growth of the company, accounting for about 90 percent of his business. “There aren’t as many worries about mosquitoes now, although at some point we’ll be talking about some of the diseases that mosquitoes carry, like Zika virus and Triple E [eastern equine encephalitis, or EEE].” Effective Essential Oils Kyle continues, “We’re such nature lovers in the Upper Valley and everyone’s outside a lot, so we’re faced with ticks and mosquitoes. Our products take care of that. They are made from essential oils, some of which are even OMRI listed, so they’re as close to being certified organic as possible. We don’t mix in any neurotoxins or synthetics. They are safe as can be and still kill ticks and mosquitoes, which reduces the population on properties.” (OMRI is a group that assures suitability of products for certified organic production.) That’s important, Kyle says, because one female tick can lay up to five thousand eggs. They have a two- to three-year life cycle, he explains, “so if you’re not killing the ticks and just hoping to repel
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them, it’s not going to do enough. It’s not going to get rid of them.” Pure Solutions is able to break down the life cycle by killing the ticks and preventing them from laying eggs, “drastically reducing their ability to infest a property, which is what people are seeing.” They target areas where ticks hide, such as brush piles and stone walls, places where mice (tick hosts) congregate, as well as lawns. The essential oils go to work by breaking down the exoskeleton and the respiratory system of the tick when the oils get on them, thereby killing the ticks as well as acting as a repellent. The product is applied with a special mist-blower sprayer that can get underneath areas where ticks may be and can spray up into trees to get the mosquitoes. Kyle recommends applying the product every 21 days, starting in the spring and continuing into fall. Spraying for mosquitoes can start a little later in the spring. People and pets can go outside as soon as 10 minutes after application, or once the oils have dried. Cost depends on the size of the property, which the team at Pure Solutions will visit or use satellite measuring and give you an estimate. Pest-Free Fun Pure Solutions also offers a unique program for people who are holding events outside and don’t want mosquitoes and ticks to ruin them. “Weddings, barbecues, birthday parties—you name it—we will show up a week in advance and treat the property, then the day before or the date of we’ll spray. The second spray is right before the event and the results are amazing,” Kyle says. “We’re pretty proud that it’s so safe for our environment and we’re glad we can offer something people in the Upper Valley are so keen on. We’re giving customers peace of mind to know that it’s safe. Our goal is to let people enjoy their backyards again.” TW Pure Solutions 4 Britton Lane Lyme, NH (603) 838-7873 www.puresolutions.com
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FINANCE | BY TERRI CRATE, VICE PRESIDENT, SENIOR RETAIL LOAN OFFICER
CELEBRATING 125 YEARS OF CUSTOMER SERVICE
Sugar River Bank Terri Crate Vice President Senior Retail Loan Officer NMLS #419840
What types of loans are available to borrowers buying a home that’s a fixer-upper? Sugar River Bank has several program options to finance these properties. For more significant repairs, a construction loan might be the best option. In addition to construction loans, we also offer New Hampshire Housing Loan Programs that provide financing options for rehab properties. Lastly, the bank also offers portfolio (“in-house”) loan products to assist with financing properties that need improvement. All of these programs do not necessarily require a 20 percent down payment. What is the difference between a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and a home equity loan? Both products are secured by a mortgage lien on the borrower’s home. A HELOC is a revolving line of credit with an established credit limit. The interest rate generally adjusts after the initial fixed-rate period. These loans are flexible. The term of the line of credit is generally 10 years with a minimum monthly payment of interest only based on the amount outstanding. The borrower may apply principal payments at any time. A home equity loan has a fixed interest rate until maturity. The full amount is disbursed when the loan closes. Payments of both principal and interest are paid monthly over a 10-year term. What are some ways to leverage the equity in your home? The HELOC and the home equity loan are two of the most common ways to utilize some homeowner equity. In addition, it might also be beneficial for a homeowner to consider a “cash-out” refinance. The loan term is flexible and generally the longer the term, the lower the monthly payment. With mortgage rates still historically low, now is a great time to contact a loan originator.
10 North Main Street Newport, NH (603) 863-3000 NMLS #419770 www.sugarriverbank.com MEMBER FDIC | EQUAL HOUSING LENDER
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Why should someone choose Sugar River Bank for their financing needs? Sugar River Bank is proudly celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. We are the local hometown community bank and, as a mutual institution, are owned by our depositors, not shareholders. This means we can’t be bought or sold. Also, in most cases, we can lend anywhere in the state of New Hampshire. Our lending staff all live in the communities that we serve and have several years of experience in the industry. All loan decisions are made locally. Most loans that we originate are serviced right in our main office in Newport, New Hampshire, not by a third party located in another state. Our interest rates are competitive, and we offer a wide array of mortgage products tailored to fit a borrower’s needs. You can apply for a mortgage online. We offer six convenient branch locations, all with drive-up facilities, and all calls are answered in person by one of our friendly staff. TW
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BY THE CARRIAGE SHED STAFF
THE CARRIAGE SHED OFFERS PERSONALIZED SERVICE
BUILDINGS GALORE
The Carriage Shed is family owned and operated. Owner Robert Therrien has been in the construction business his entire life, which makes the building process easy and enjoyable for clients. Working with customers to develop a quote and plans for their dream building makes perfect sense, allowing customers to get exactly what they want. 130 i m a g e t r e n d w a t c h •
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STOP IN & BROWSE “We always suggest that you come and check out our display lot, where you can see buildings ranging from small chicken coops and storage sheds to our larger 36x36-foot High Country Barn, the 24x48-foot Low Profile Garage, and everything in between,” says Jenny Sinclair, manager. “All of our structures are Amish-made
with the highest quality materials. We always tell our customers to compare before you buy. Our structures are built to last, and we will not take any shortcuts to cut costs.” POPULAR CHOICES According to Jenny, the folks at The Carriage Shed have noticed that barn style is the most popular with their
Above: A 36x36-foot High Country woodworking shop and studio features stained cedar shake siding and a 12-foot lean-to. Opposite: The stick-built structure was constructed by an Amish crew.
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Clockwise from near right: Natural light streams into the upper level studio. Built to specifications, the 9x7-foot garage door provides easy access to the lower level woodworking shop. A 36x24foot High Country horse barn with a full loft and a 10-foot lean-to features western red cedar board and batten siding.
customers. “They all love the barn look,” says Jenny, “from a three-car garage to a cozy art studio to the obvious horse barn and more. We believe the reason is that it’s so versatile. It goes with any style architecture it may be placed next to.” Jenny continues, “The board and batten siding is also a winner among the same crowd. It is not only an extremely rugged material, it also goes with any type of siding you may have on your home—clapboard, Hardie board siding, textured (T1-11), and the list goes on and on. All of these structures will boost your property value and are able to accommodate any dream you may have.” Jenny continues, “Everyone wants to build to their specifications, and it makes sense that we customize to your needs. All our buildings are constructed to code for the town where the building is going up. Snow loads and wind loads play a part in this aspect of construction. The Carriage Shed can also have stamped engineered plans made for the towns that require them.” BEYOND THE UPPER VALLEY While you’re there, stop and say hello to The Carriage Shed crew, Jenny, Amy, Jake, and Joe. Being a small business, they all pull together to keep customers happy. The Carriage Shed not only serves the Upper Valley but also the entire country. “The largest barns we have ever constructed are located in California, and we have even brought a barn over on a barge to Nantucket,” Jenny reports. “We make the impossible possible.” TW The Carriage Shed 1195 VA Cutoff Road White River Junction, VT (800) 441-6057 www.carriageshed.com
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MIX IT UP! NEW PATIO FURNITURE STYLES HAVE ARRIVED AT DECK DOCK HOME & GARDEN
We’re not talking about mixing cocktails on the patio. We’re talking about the latest trend in materials for patio and deck furniture, and mixed materials are in, according to Lynne Wardlaw at Deck Dock Home & Garden. “In the last 10 years or so, we’ve seen a shift away from metal and wood toward synthetics,” Lynne says. “Metals such as aluminum and wrought iron are less common these days, mostly because we’re a cool climate and those materials feel cold. Polymers have been very successful in both recycled and marine grade.” One natural material that may be the exception is teak, which Lynne says is making a huge comeback. “In fact, New England is one of the largest markets for outdoor teak,” she reports. What’s happening in the market has been evolving, however. “Now we’re seeing materials used where their advantages apply: metal for frame strength, poly and woven vinyl wicker for comfort, and teak for durability with minimal maintenance.” TW
The Three Birds Brunswick Teak & Bella Wicker Dining Set uses vinyl wicker, Grade A teak, and stainless steel.
Three Birds Brunswick Teak Dining Chair.
Les Jardins SKAAL Low Armchair.
Deck Dock Home & Garden 81 Edgemont Road, Route 103B Sunapee, NH (603) 763-3266 deckdock.com
Telescope Casual Leeward MGP Stacking Chaise Lounge with Sling Seating.
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Seaside Casual Nantucket Deep Seating with Sunbrella Cushions. Les Jardins SKALL Garden Side Tables feature HPL laminate and treated teak.
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advertisers index ArborScape Inc 63 American Plate Glass 45 AV Electronics/Satellite Video 126 Belletetes 12 Bethel Mills Kitchen and Bath 8 Biron’s Flooring 106 Boynton Construction 44 Brown Furniture 7 Brown’s Auto & Marine 44 Carpet King & Tile 94 Chapin Interiors 51 Charles Silva Builders 45 Chippers 122 Claremont Custom Framing 58 Claremont Glassworks 135 Colby Insurance Group 47 Creative Lighting Designs 37 Crown Point Cabinetry 4 Crown Point Select 77 db Landscaping 127 Davis Frame Co. Back cover Deck Dock Home & Garden 125 Docks Plus 45 Eastern Propane & Oil 93 Elite Landscaping & Property Management 96 Ennis Construction 1 Estes & Gallup 45 Fine Paints of Europe 45 FloorCraft 126 Four Seasons/Sotheby’s International Realty 9 & 117 Frank Anzalone Associates 5
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2020
Frank Webb Home 24 GR Porter & Sons 81 GeoBarns 2 Gilberte Interiors 97 GraceHill Construction 68 Guaraldi Insurance Agency 103 H.R. Clough Heating Oil & Propane 44 High Meadow Builders 44 Home Comfort Warehouse 68 Jancewicz & Son 69 Jeff Wilmot Painting & Wallpapering, Inc. 58 Jerm’s Plumbing & Heating 16 Junction Frame Shop 63 Landforms Inside back cover Landshapes 133 LaValley Building Supply 59 & 123 Lawn Master of Vermont 94 Lebanon Paint & Decorating 95 LindeMac Real Estate 71 Loewen Window Center of VT and NH 44 Love’s Beddding & Furniture 101 Lumber Barn 45 MB Pro Landscape Design 115 McGray & Nichols 15 North Country Door 44 Northcape Design Build 17 Norwich Solar Technologies 24 Oakes Brothers 67 Old Hampshire Designs 96 Old Yankee Stoneworks 13 Pelow & Sons Paving & Concrete 3 Pompanoosuc Mills Inside front cover
Pure Solutions 99 Randall T. Mudge & Associates Architects 43 Renewal by Andersen 25 Richard Electric 122 Riverlight Builders 50 Rodd Roofing 45 Shaker Hill Granite Company 135 Shepard Interior Selections 43 Smokeshire Design 44 Snyder Donegan Real Estate 53 Solaflect Energy 114 Springfield Fence Company 42 Studio Sage Interior Design 106 Sugar River Bank 129 Sugar River Kitchens, Bath & Flooring 81 Talbot Builders 37 Terrigenous Landscape Architecture 44 The Cabinet en-Counter 99 The Carriage Shed 107 The Gilded Edge 45 The Ultimate Bath Store 64 The Village at White River Junction 10 Timberpeg/Real Log Homes 11 Timeless Kitchen Design 95 Twin State Garage Door, LLC 45 Valley Artesian Well Company 56 Valley Floors 101 Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture 136 Watermark Construction 44 Windows & Doors by Brownell 62 Yankee Barn Homes 6