NEST Magazine - Spring/Summer 2021 by Nest Magazine

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021 REALTY COURTESY OF NEST 1

There’s no place like Nest As spring warms our homes and our hearts, the world suddenly emerges from the grey of winter into an explosion of vibrant colors. But Mother Nature shouldn’t have all the fun! In this issue of NEST Magazine, we explore color theory and the countless ways we can bring color into our homes. We focus on the ways that certain colors can evoke a desired mood or feeling— relaxing, soothing, inspiring, or invigorating. We’ve taken inspiration from local spaces and places that make us want to up our color game. We hope that this magazine motivates you to leave your comfort zone and liven up your home with a burst of new color this season!

JOAN NESTER Realtor 999.999.9999 joan.nester@nestrealty.com nestrealty.com/joannester

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

IN THIS ISSUE

20 4

EDITOR’S NOTE

ASK A NESTER

WANT MORE? Head to NestRealty.com for design ideas, DIY videos, trend alerts, house tours, and more!

Welcome to the Color Theory Issue! The agents and Brokers of Nest Realty weigh in on some colorful questions.

SAVOR 6

LOCAL LOVE

TREND ALERT

Local spaces and places we love. Create your own outdoor oasis.

SPACES

DISCOVER

COLOR THEORY

FINDING A MOMENT OF ZEN

DIY PAINTED MURAL

HISTORY OF DESIGN

LIVING IN PLACE

MAKING THE (UP)GRADE

28 36

HOUSE TOUR: Gorgeous Greens

A Louisville, Kentucky, home packed with vibrant colors and patterns. CREATING A HOME OFFICE

Make your home work for you! HOUSE TOUR: Contrasting Colors

A Huntersville, NC, house gets a long-awaited update, basked in contrasting colors. CURB APPEAL

An American colonial classic with a pop of modern color in Earlysville, VA. HOUSE TOUR: Calming Cools

Varying shades of green and blue are peppered throughout this Fuquay-Varina, NC, home.

A look at the way color can affect our mood. Creating a home yoga space.

Try your hand at color blocking. Take a journey through time to learn about important historical colorways. Improve the overall safety of your home for the long run. Which home improvements will get you the biggest ROI?

S PR I NG /SU M M E R 2 0 2 1

LET TE R F R OM T HE EDI TOR Russian painter and art theorist Wassily Kandinksy, who is often credited as the pioneer of abstract art, once said, “Color is a power which directly influences the soul.” I’m inclined to agree. Color has a power that moves us. And after a year that felt dim at moments, I’m happy to embrace all the mood-enhancing tools I can get! To this end, we turned to some of our favorite designers, color experts, and art instructors to learn how we can utilize the power of color to affect our moods. In our feature article, Color Theory (page 14), we delve into the ways that our brains react to various colors. Understanding how these colors translate to interior design may inspire you to repaint your primary bedroom, or finally paint that guest bathroom! Hesitant to commit to a full room of color? Try your hand at a DIY Painted Mural (page 32), for a quick and simple burst of color. Make your home work for you by carving out a pleasing and productive Home Office (page 28), or create a quiet meditation or Yoga Zone (page 20), adding a little yin to your yang.

Learn about the ways color has been used over time in our History of Design column (page 35), and ways you can design for the future, in our Living In Place feature (page 46). And as in every issue, get inspired by the pros in our House Tours (page 24, 36, and 42). Flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and hope is on the horizon. We hope this issue inspires you to get colorful, embrace the power of paint, and make your home uniquely you!

/NestRealty

@NestRealty

TO FIND THE AWESOME PRODUCTS LISTED THROUGHOUT THE MAGAZINE, HEAD TO NESTREALTY.COM/BLOG/MAG-PRODUCTS

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

JASMINE LISTOU BIBLE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

@NestRealty

Q&A

NEST MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER

ASK A NESTER: WHAT WOULD HUE DO? The agents and Brokers of Nest Realty know a thing or two about colors, so we asked them to weigh in. It’s clear that the results are far from black and white. How would you answer our color queries?

Jonathan Kauffmann EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jasmine Bible MANAGING EDITOR Sara Belkowitz

TO PLAN OR NOT TO PLAN About half (52%) of Nesters decorate with a color scheme in mind, while the remaining 48% let the rooms inspire them as they go.

DESIGN DIRECTOR Paigelee Chancellor SENIOR DESIGNERS Taylor Ahn Megan Chandler GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Liz Eure Brandon Quintin

FEEL THE FLOW BRIGHTEN UP YOUR DAY When it comes to small spaces, 57% of Nesters opt for light colors, while 33% go wild with patterns, and 10% choose darker, more intimate colors.

78% of Nesters paint adjoining rooms the same color, while 22% are game to use different colors in each room.

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

LESS IS MORE

Aaron H. Bible Tom Seabrook Taylor Titus

When asked to choose between a monochrome color scheme and more color variety, 63% of Nesters went with

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS/ VIDEOGRAPHERS Graeme Jenvey Jennifer Morgan

one color across the board.

DON’T GO AGAINST THE GRAIN 67% of Nesters like natural wood furniture, while 27% prefer painted wood, and 6% skip wood furniture all together.

COOL AS A CUCUMBER 69% of our Nesters gravitate toward cool colors (blue and green) over warm colors (red and orange).

LOOK UP Published Twice Annually in Charlottesville, Virginia 126 GARRETT STREET, SUITE D CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22902 (800) 325-6378

44% of Nesters would paint a ceiling a fun color, while 56% prefer a classic white ceiling.

SO FRESH AND SO CLEAN

NestRealty.com/magazine

EXTERIOR FLOURISH When it comes to home exteriors, 86% of Nesters like to see a pop of color on the front door or shutters.

Looks like the bright white kitchen trend isn’t going away anytime soon...79% of Nesters would choose white kitchen cabinets instead of a colorful or dark option.

local

LOVE

We love supporting neighborhood businesses and getting to know the awesome people behind them. Here are some local treasures from around our Nest Realty locations. Be sure to check with your local faves to see how you can support them safely! #NESTLOCALLOVE

Juice and Java

CAFE AT REVOLUTION | GREENSBORO, NC Need a coffee break? Or would you prefer to pucker up with some incredible all natural lemonade? Either way, the Cafe at Revolution, located inside Greensboro’s exciting Revolution Mill, serves up the most scrumptious beverages. From espresso, chai lattes, and Russian tea to iced coffee and lemonade smoothies, you’ll find just what you desire. As the good folks at Cafe at Revolution say, “everything gets better with coffee and lemonade.” cafeatrevolution.com

More local businesses we love in Greensboro: AJ’s Auto Wash & Detailing ajsautowashanddetailing.com Cook Out cookout.com Gibsonville Garden Railroad gibsonville.net/gibsonvillegardenrailroad

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Hit the Runway

YORK LAINE BOUTIQUE | JACKSON, TN We’re drooling over Jackson’s chicest new shop, York Laine Boutique, designed by Campbell King Interiors. Fully stocked with a curated collection of women’s clothes, shoes, and accessories, York Laine makes it easy to rock a fabulous, trendy outfit for any occasion, from casual to cocktail party. Their image-based website enables you to envision how each unique piece could be styled. Plus, new merch drops every Thursday night, so you can constantly freshen up your look! shopyorklaine.com

More local businesses we love in Jackson: Plectral Society tnvacation.com/local/jackson-plectral-society-performingold-country-store Jackson Downtown Dog Walk lanatn.org/home/lana-downtown-dog-walk West Tennessee Farmers’ Market jacksontn.gov/residents/farmer_s_market

Photo by Angela Spencer

Belly up to the Bean

BUTTERBEAN MARKET & CAFE | RICHMOND, VA South of the James River in the Manchester section of Richmond, the Butterbean Market & Cafe serves mouth watering nibbles like challah French toast, crab muffins, and fresh chicken salad. Whether you’re grabbing a bite and relaxing at an outdoor table or just running in to stock up on produce, you’ll love the bright decor and welcoming atmosphere. Did we mention they serve killer kombucha, local craft beer, and espresso that will keep you coming back? thebutterbean.com

More local businesses we love in Richmond: Coqui Cyclery coquicyclery.com Jake’s Place Restaurant and Market jakesplaceashland.com Richbrau Brewery richbraubrewing.com NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Pass the Napkins! HUSK BBQ | GREENVILLE, SC

Located in the West End, Husk recently changed their focus to BBQ, and we couldn’t be more excited. The low-and-slow smoked meats pair perfectly with the seasonal Southern sides. We dig the ambiance almost as much as the food! Soaring ceilings with exposed rafters and rustic brick feel warm and welcoming. huskbbq.com

More local businesses we love in Greenville: The Children’s Museum of the Upstate tcmupstate.org Peace Center, Performing Arts Center peacecenter.org Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack rockyshotchickenshack.com

Chalk it up

POPPY + CHALK | CULPEPER, VA If you’re feeling crafty, you should visit Poppy + Chalk in Downtown Culpeper to browse their wide selection of chalk paint, vintage treasures, and clever handmade furnishings. Featuring both local vendors and big names like Annie Sloan and Magnolia Home, this adorable shop can help you fast track your farmhouse chic home makeover. Complete your experience with a frozen treat from sister store Scoop on Davis, a classic ice cream parlor located right inside Poppy + Chalk. poppyandchalk.com

More local businesses we love in Northern Virginia: Jus Pop’n Gourmet Popcorn juspopnfxbg.com Fork ~n~ Biscuit forknbiscuit.com The Pig Pitt facebook.com/The-Pig-Pitt-188137365147685

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

All Dogs on Deck NAUTI DOG | CAROLINA BEACH, NC

Ahoy, matey! If you’re looking for the best gourmet hot dogs right on the boardwalk in Carolina Beach, set a course for Nauti Dog. With its full bar serving up luscious libations, this dog house is not just for the kids. From classics (mustard, chili, slaw) to new creations (cucumbers and guacamole, anyone?), all your cravings are covered. Feeling paelo? Skip the bun and get your brats in a bowl. nautidogcb.com

More local businesses we love in Wilmington: Nakedﬁn Poke Bowls facebook.com/nfinpoke Spill Coffee spillcoffeeco.com paws4people paws4people.org

DAIRY MARKET | CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA Housed just outside Downtown Charlottesville in a historic former dairy company building (hence the name!), the Dairy Market brings together a stunning variety of food and drink options all under one roof. Local businesses planting new roots in the market include venerable brewery Starr Hill, sandwich favorite Take-It-Away, and exciting fresh concepts like Dino’s Wood-fired Pizza & Rotisserie Chicken. End your visit on a sweet note with scrumptious ice cream from Moo Thru—you’ll thank us later! dairymarketcville.com

More local businesses we love in Central Virginia: The Wool Factory thewoolfactory.com Lafayette Inn thelafayette.com A&W Collectables facebook.com/AWAntiqueMall

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Helping Hands

HOMEWARD BOUND OF WNC | ASHEVILLE, NC Homeward Bound of Western North Carolina has given more than 2,000 people in Asheville and Buncombe County a head start to break the cycle of homelessness through housing since 2006. By providing people in need with critical housing, Homeward Bound helps boost the community from the ground up. Many Asheville Nest agents participate in REACH (Real Estate Agents Combatting Homelessness), donating a portion of their commission to support Homeward Bound’s work to end homelessness. homewardboundwnc.org

More local businesses we love in Asheville: The Gardener’s Cottage gardenerscottageasheville.com Snider & Associates, CPAs ashevilleaccounting.com Jettie Rae’s Oyster House jettieraes.com

Buzzworthy Books

EDITIONS COFFEE SHOP & BOOKSTORE KANNAPOLIS, NC Drinking coffee and reading books—two of our favorite pastimes! At Editions Coffee Shop & Bookstore, the two come together seamlessly for one downright exquisite experience. By sourcing only the ripest coffee beans and giving gently used books a second life, Editions is doing its part to make historic Downtown Kannapolis a wonderful place to visit or live. Don’t miss out on their many events like book signings, trivia, food trucks, and knitting groups! editionsbookstore.com

More local businesses we love in Lake Norman: Sycamore Brewing sycamorebrew.com Puppy Luv Dog Grooming puppyluvlkn.com Lakeside Custom Tee’s & Embroidery lkscustomtees.com 10

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Purrr

ANIMAL HOPE ALLIANCE | BLACKSBURG, VA With the mission to care for vulnerable pets in Montgomery County, Animal HOPE Alliance works with the local community to rescue animals who need a second chance. This nonprofit organization shelters mostly cats, who are all tested, vaccinated, and either spayed or neutered before going up for adoption. Visit their website or see cute kitties in person at several local pet stores to fall in love with a new companion and save a life! animal-hope-alliance.com

More local businesses we love in New River Valley: Woolly Jumper Yarns woollyjumperyarns.com Route 8 Donuts facebook.com/route8donuts Draper Blooms Tea Garden and Sipping Apothecary draperteagarden.com

Shrub Source

SHRECKISE SHRUBBERY SALES & LANDSCAPING WEYERS CAVE, VA With more than seven acres of gardening goodness, Shreckise Shrubbery Sales & Landscaping is your one stop shop for plants, shrubs, trees, and more, many of which are grown right on site in their extensive field nursery. Come find inspiration for your next garden project by exploring local flora, or take advantage of Shreckise’s professional residential and commercial landscaping expertise. Either way, you’ll be beautifying your home—and helping make the planet greener—by spreading the shrubbery love. shreckhiseshrubbery.com

More local businesses we love in Shenandoah Valley: New Creation VA newcreationva.org Initial Inspiration initialinspiration.com Merge Coffee Company mergecoffeeco.com

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Ethical Eats

LOCAL ROOTS | ROANOKE, VA Roots takes the concept of slow food seriously, bringing the bounty of Southwest Virginia’s farms right to your table. With a focus on both agricultural sustainability and uncompromised flavor, the restaurant specializes in locally sourced meats, produce, and even wine. With every bite—from your first spoonful of butternut squash soup to the last crumb of carrot cake—you’re supporting farmers and the entire community. This is not fast food; it’s a meal with a mission! localrootsrestaurant.com

More local businesses we love in Roanoke: Queens Vegan Cafe gottrust.org/queensvegancafe Tree Fairfax treefairfax.com Taubman Museum of Art taubmanmuseum.org

Hang on Tight! BEANSTALK ZIPLINES | MORGANTON, NC Imagine soaring high up in the air, feeling the rush of adrenaline kick in as you zoom through the clouds with your trusty sidekicks! You and your entire family can live this experience at Beanstalk Ziplines. With expansive climbing and jumping options, adventure is just around the next aerial obstacle. Kids can confidently zip alone, or you can tandem zip with them. Are you ready to take on the 520-foot MEGAZIP? thebeanstalkjourney.com

More local businesses we love in Morganton: Catawba Meadows Park morgantonnc.gov/index.php/government/parks-recreation/ parks/catawba-meadows-park Root & Vine rootandvinerestaurant.com Silver Fork Vineyard & Winery silverforkwinery.com

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Tastes Good, Does Good BLACK FARMERS’ MARKET RALEIGH AND DURHAM, NC

Supporting local African American farmers and getting your fresh produce fix at the same time? Sign us up! The North Carolina Black Farmers’ Market, which rotates between Raleigh and Durham twice a month, provides a place where nutritious, sustainable eating also gives Black farmers and entrepreneurs a way to boost their livelihoods and the entire community. The Black Farmers’ Market uplifts the region by meeting the need for more widely available healthy food—a delicious calling. blackfarmersmkt.com

More local businesses we love in Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill: Ponysaurus Brewing ponysaurusbrewing.com Esteamed Coffee esteamedcoffee.com Two Roosters Ice Cream tworoosters.com

A Grand Day Out CHEROKEE PARK | LOUISVILLE, KY

Designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in 1891, Cherokee Park covers more than 400 acres and welcomes half a million visitors every year. Walk or bike the Scenic Loop trail, get a pickup frisbee game started, or just relax with a picnic and take in the beauty all around. Looking for a way to tire out your energetic pup? Check out “Dog Hill,” a section of the park beloved by our four-legged friends. louisvilleky.gov/government/parks/park-list/cherokee-park

More local businesses we love in Greater Louisville: Woodstock Animal Foundation woodstockanimalfoundation.org Peace, Love and Eggrolls peaceloveandeggrolls.com North Lime Coffee and Donuts northlime.net

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

color theory Using Mood-Evoking Colors in Your Home

s there an emotional connectivity between ourselves and the spaces we inhabit? Can certain colors make us happy? Often when we think of decorating a room, we begin with color—we choose our favorite color and build a design around it. What if, instead, we took a step back and chose a color based on the feeling we wish to achieve in the room? To begin, let’s take a quick refresher course in color theory. At its core, color theory is a collection of guidelines on the use of color, intended to allow a person to make intelligent choices when choosing colors. Philosophers and academics as far back as Aristotle have studied color and the ways in which colors relate to one another. In 1666, Sir Isaac Newton developed the color wheel, defining three groups: primary colors, secondary colors, and tertiary colors. The most commonly used 12-hue wheel helps us to understand color and color relationships.

TEXT BY JASMINE BIBLE + PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PRIMARY COLOR

Red, blue, or yellow.

SECONDARY COLOR A color resulting from the mixing of two primary colors.

(blue + yellow = green)

TERTIARY COLOR The resulting color formed when adjacent primary and secondary colors are mixed. (blue + green = blue-green)

COMPLEMENTARY COLORS Colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel. (blue and orange)

HUE Purest form of a color.

TINT Hue mixed with white.

TONE Hue mixed with true grey.

SHADE Hue mixed with black.

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY Now that we know the ways in which colors interact with one another, let’s look at the ways in which humans react to color. We chatted with Melissa Chipman, an art teacher at the American Academy of Innovation in Utah, to get a better understanding.

THE EXPERTS

On a neurological level, your brain responds differently to different colors (wavelengths of light), and requires varying levels of subconscious energy to process each color. “When viewing contrasting colors, your eyes are experiencing a sense of heightened energy—there is a dynamic conversation happening between contrasting colors that causes your brain to continuously shift between the two, actively processing this dialogue,” explains Chipman. This can be ideal for evoking certain moods like hunger, excitement, or inspiration.

MELISSA CHIPMAN, Art Teacher American Academy of Innovation @melitachipita melissachipman.com

Conversely, complementary colors that exist next to one another on the color wheel work in tandem to create a harmonious balance, resulting in a more calming or relaxing atmosphere.

SUSAN BRUNSTRUM, Interior Designer Studio Brunstrum @studiobrunstrum studiobrunstrum.com

So how do these color rules translate to your home? Interior designer Susan Brunstrum of Studio Brunstrum shares her tips:

RED

can be bold and dramatic or

warm and earthy, depending on the tone.

light spring or sage green is soothing and

shades of magenta add a punch of drama.

helps stimulate focus and creativity.

BLACK

Deep crimson hues create passion and

Just like my favorite little black

drama, while rusty shades can add a cozy

BLUE

ambiance. Red is best used in areas where

with calm and serenity. It’s a great color for

with sophistication, elegance, and luxury.

energy should be high, like a family room or

spa-like bathrooms and peaceful primary

It’s most often used as an accent in the

entertaining space.

bedrooms. Deep navy or royal blues add a

home, as all-black interiors can become

masculine feeling, while light powder or sky

dreary and overwhelming very quickly.

blue hues are versatile anywhere you need

Glossy or matte black accents, furniture,

a bit of relaxation.

and appliances are timeless and chic.

have all the vivacity and warmth of both.

PURPLE

WHITE

Used in large quantities, orange can feel

royalty, and can inspire creativity and

cleanliness, and often is regarded as a

overwhelming, but softer peachy or terra

spirituality. Deep rich plum or violet can

blank palette. With the rise in popularity of

cotta shades can be cozy and calming.

add a bold, exotic flair, while light lavender

Scandinavian design in recent years, more

hues are calming and pair well with greys

and more designers are leaning towards

and oranges. It’s also a popular choice

all-white walls and sparse white furniture.

sunshine, energy, and happiness. It reminds

for kids’ rooms—studies have shown that

White interiors can feel fresh and modern,

me of my last vacation to Mexico. It

nearly 75% of pre-adolescent children

but can also be very cold and barren

also can spark creativity and encourage

choose purple over any other color.

without the proper accent pieces.

you have teenagers at home! But if it’s

PINK

BROWN

overdone, it can cause anxiety and stress.

flair, and it has seen a huge increase in

leather, and natural elements are a great

popularity over the past few years, with

way to warm up a space and make it feel

blush and “millennial pink” shades being in

homier in an instant. Brown shades are

and harmony. Deep emerald or hunter

vogue. Muted blush or greyish-pink hues

truly versatile, and go with any design style

green can add intensity and elegance, while

can instantly soften any room, and darker

and mood.

ORANGE

hues are bright, fun, and

energetic. Since orange is a combination of

tones are typically associated

dress, this color has always been associated

red and yellow, it makes sense that it would

YELLOW

is usually associated with

has long been the color of

is the color of purity and

communication, which might help if

GREEN

brings to mind nature, balance,

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

can add a touch of feminine

accents such as wood tones,

REAL WORLD EXAMPLE In this foyer, as featured on our cover, the designer wanted to establish a connection between the interior and exterior of this mountain home, surrounded by tall evergreen trees. There is now a feeling of harmony between nature and what is to come in the remainder of the colorful home. A rich green, Matcha Latte by Clare, brings a sense of refined elegance to the walls, trim, and doors to create an intense, enveloping feeling, as if you were inside an emerald jeweled box. To further this cocoon effect, a lighter green, Two Scoops by Clare, was used on the ceiling instead of the traditional ceiling white. On the floors, a graphic black and white geometric pattern leads you into the main living areas. Shed antlers (those found on the forest floor, not hunted) have been coated in a matte white, providing a sculptural element. Notes of art deco are found in the luxe door hardware, floor pattern, and the shape of the custom ceiling medallions. Tiers of lighting work in layered harmony: the large gold table lamp, art light, the ceiling fixtures, and the wall sconce in the dressing room beyond. The redwood tree collage artwork by Paul Abrams sits atop the burl wood console table, another nod to the natural landscape that exists just beyond the windows. As you begin to make color choices, consider the scale. The bold emerald feels sophisticated in this small space, but in a huge living room it could feel garish or oppressive.

Now that you’re armed with a deeper understanding of color...how will you use it? We want to see! Use the hashtag #SOnesty to show us how you use color to create a calming retreat or a highenergy contrasting combo.

F R E S H

A contrarian approach to traditional paint companies

NICOLE GIBBONS, Founder Clare @clarepaint clare.com

We’ve all been there—standing in the paint aisle trying to decipher between “Snowbound,” “Chantilly Lace,” and “Cloud White.” Overwhelmed by the options, we are left to close our eyes and point (or arbitrarily choose a shade based on the playfulness of the name)...we then order two gallons, grab supplies, and head home—fingers tightly crossed. But thanks to Nicole Gibbons, founder of Clare, this historically cumbersome process is now a delightful experience. A visit to the Clare website reveals a carefully curated collection of usable, livable colors that look great in any space. We chatted with Gibbons herself to catch a glimpse into her colorful world: what we found was a mix of

P A I N T

charm, wit, business savvy, and a penchant for color. “The average person can’t afford an interior designer, and they struggle with color selection. There are simply too many choices,” she explains. With a decade of experience as a retail exec, then as a residential interior designer, she knew she could simplify and improve the process. “A traditional paint company offers everything under the sun, and there are just too many choices. No one needs that many options. As an interior designer, I would never show a client 35 different paint color options—I would suggest one, with maybe one or two as backups,” she quips. All designers have a go-to roster of colors, and Gibbons has now shared hers with the world. She raised capital, hired experts to develop the formula, and launched a modern brand that’s changing the paint game. We can personally attest that the paint has incredible coverage, causes no drips or splatter, and is virtually odorless. We’re smitten. Head to Clare.com to order mess-free paint swatches, paint, and high-quality supplies, all delivered right to your front door. Inspired, beautiful, simple.

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Fi n di ng a Mo m en t of Zen C R E A T I N G A H O M E YO G A S P A C E

Finding a moment of zen sounds delightful, doesn’t it? While in our minds, the perfect place to practice yoga may be a large, open, airy, serene spot...let’s be realistic, many of us don’t have a spare studio just waiting to be transformed into an oasis. So what can we do instead? With just a few intentional items, you can carve out a restorative space to call your own.

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Gather the Essentials

Good news! There aren’t many essentials. Unlike many other sports that require a ton of expensive equipment (hello, $10,000 road bike!), the only gear you really need is a mat. We love the feel of a cork mat, or the luxe cushion of the Laguna Yoga Mat from retrospec.com. Head to your local home store to find a tall basket to hold your mat and equipment. We’ve actually had great luck finding baskets on Facebook Marketplace and at local thrift stores. To disinfect, simply leave the basket out in the sun for a few days to naturally sun bleach, then spray with an environmentally friendly cleansing solution, adding in a few drops of your favorite essential oil (try lavender or tea tree). For the rest of the equipment? Don’t rush to order a bunch of things you may not need. As you start attending online classes, you’ll quickly learn what could make your practice more enjoyable, like cork blocks, bands, a bolster, or an anti-slip towel to place over your mat.

Set Yourself Up for Success

To make yoga a daily practice takes dedication and intention. There are some things that you can do to better your chances of really committing to and enjoying your daily moment of zen. Figure out what time of day works best for you. Start by trying the first thing in the morning while the house is still quiet. Set your alarm for 45 minutes earlier than usual, and get to your mat as quickly as possible to avoid distractions (don’t look at your phone!). To save precious minutes of brain power in the morning, choose your video the night before, and have your computer or tablet queued up and ready to go, along with your filled-up water bottle. Use a singing bowl to signal to your brain that it’s time to tune in, then tune out all other distractions. Take some deep cleansing breaths and congratulate yourself on showing up. This is your time—revel in it. Once you’ve finished your class, prepare your space for tomorrow. Clean your mat with an all natural biodegradable cleaner—we like the calming citrus yoga mat cleanser from astura.com. Give your mat a spritz, wipe it down with a microfiber cloth, then loosely roll it up and place it into your basket.

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Up Your Ambiance

flare of the wick igniting, the low crackle of the candle burning. All that before we even get to the delicious smells! We adore

To really elevate your experience, focus on your senses.

usucompany.com, based out of Raleigh, North Carolina. Our

SIGHT If possible, set up your zen zone near a window so you

current favorite candle is Usu’s “Nepa” candle—a custom

can take in the view. If that won’t work, hang up a meaningful

blend of smoky, sweet haze with honey, amber, tobacco leaves,

piece of artwork instead; even a bundle of fresh greenery like

and bergamot. Incense sticks, incense points, and responsibly

eucalyptus can be a beautiful place to rest your gaze. (Bonus

sourced palo santo sticks are all wonderful aromatic options as

points for the amazing aroma eucalyptus will bring to the

well.

entire room!)

TASTE Treat your tastebuds to a slice of fresh lemon in your

SOUND To begin your practice, we love using a small metal

water. It’s been hailed for various health benefits (which may

singing bowl, said to induce states of relaxation and well-being.

or may not be true), but adding lemon sure helps us consume

You can choose to either ring the bowl once with the provided

more water and stay hydrated.

mallet, signaling the start of your practice. Or to produce a

TOUCH After your yoga session, grab a soft blanket and enjoy

continuous melodic sound, place the mallet at the lip of the

your well-earned Savasana (the five to 10 minute relaxation

bowl and slowly circle around the rim for as long as desired.

pose that works powerfully on many levels, allowing you to

Two to three minutes is a nice start to focus your attention

release and rejuvenate). We’re big fans of the cozy

inward and set your intentions for your yoga practice.

Desert Collection from tribetrue.com.

SMELL Lighting a candle can be another great ceremonial start to your practice...the sound of striking the match, the

VISIT NESTREALTY.COM/BLOG/ZEN FOR OUR PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS!

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Be sure to check in with your local yoga studio to see if they are hosting any online classes.

O N L I N E C L A S S E S W E LOV E

S u b s c r i p t i o n - B a s e d We b s i t e s While the collective energy of an in-person yoga class is hard to replicate in your home, there is something sacred and special about your own private yoga space. You can let go of any self consciousness or competitiveness that may creep in. So go on, let go and lean into your practice…you made this happen, now enjoy. Namaste.

Instructor

Focus

Yogi Shavaun Beginner-friendly Yin yoga videos, and live virtual Hatha Flow classes.

Website

yogishavaun.com

Location

Louisville, Kentucky

Kady Laﬀerty

Simon Park

Size accessible yoga. “Breaking the yoga stereotype one chubby Chaturanga at a time.”

On-demand yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes filmed in stunning national parks and on public lands

Website

studiobigbootyyoga.com

yogatoday.com

Location

Radford, Virginia

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

F r e e Yo u Tu b e C h a n n e l s There are many wonderful yogis on YouTube who are creating amazing, free content. Here are some of our favorites:

YOGA WITH ADRIENE

YOGA BY BIOLA

“Find what feels good. All levels, all bodies, all genders, all souls!” We love instructor Adriene Mishler’s warm and inviting demeanor—she’s easy to follow along with, and you can sort by focus area (neck tension, breath work), or by class length (fiveminute to 60-minute sessions).

Instructor Abiola Akanni is a Nigerian American yogi who aims to bring accessible yoga and enlightenment practices to underserved “othered” communities. “This platform is here to guide you in your personal yoga journey and overall well-being. We’ll explore yoga, chakra studies, emotional discernment, spiritual ascension, self care, and more.”

YouTube Channel

youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene

YouTube Channel

youtube.com/channel/UC9W80oIe7cLOF_UYgDk7q6w

RACHEL MEYER YOGA

YOGA WITH TIM

Instructor Rachel Meyer is an American writer and yoga teacher based in Switzerland who oﬀers some lovely advanced classes. We enjoyed her athletic 60-minute January Vinyasa.

We dig that in Tim’s videos, he helps explain the movements and postures, so you can safely practice while getting a great total body workout at the same time. Check out his January 30-day challenge that you can repeat anytime of the year.

YouTube Channel

youtube.com/c/RachelMeyerYoga

youtube.com/c/yogawithtim

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

HOUSE TOUR

GOR G EOUS G R E E NS

the brain behind the design

TEXT BY JASMINE BIBLE + PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZIG & CO

or Louisville, Kentucky, interior designer Courtney Wafzig, calling her kitchen the center of her home is more than a sweet phrase. The kitchen is quite literally positioned in the center of the house with no windows, so when her family of six moved in, she knew she needed to create a space that was bright, vibrant, and welcoming. The style needed to fit in with the remainder of the home, like the bathroom, where she also uses bold, saturated colors, balanced with whites and creams.

DESIGNER Courtney Wafzig LOCATION Louisville, KY INSTAGRAM @zigandcompany WEBSITE zigandcompany.com Follow along with Wafzig for more colorful home decor inspiration.

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THE KITCHEN The starting point of the kitchen design was the wallpaper—a graphic green-on-white print with a subtle cottage feel. Behind the range, the wallpaper is protected with a sheet of heatresistant glass. The wallpaper worked well with the existing ivory cabinets, which were in great condition and needed no change. To make the overall space more functional, Wafzig dreamed up the center island, which her husband, Aaron, constructed using salvaged materials from the local Habitat for Humanity Louisville ReStore. The cabinets and the island were topped with butcher block—an affordable and durable option, stained white versus the typical natural wood “to keep it from looking too country,” explains Wafzig.

The range hood was another Wafzig creation built by her husband. The curves of the scalloped edge echo the curves of the paper, bringing an unexpected dose of whimsy to the room. A punchy green color that matched the wallpaper was applied to both the island and the hood, along with the custom lattice work under the sink. “To add to the farmhouse feel, I wanted an apron-front sink along with a statement making cabinet. A custom look on a budget!” quips Wafzig. To complete the stand-alone look, they took an oversized foot finial meant for furniture, chopped it in half, and added it under the cabinet doors. The result is genius. To add visual and stylistic contrast, Wafzig brought in her large collection of vintage blue and white ginger jars. The pairing of blue and green was a natural choice for Wafzig. She laughs, “I mean, the sky is blue and the grass is green. How much more natural can you get?” Above the island hangs an oversized lantern in a black steel finish. Wafzig removed the rippled glass panels to expose the lovely chinoiserie-esque lines of the lantern, a perfect tether to the ginger jars.

DESIGNER

tip

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If your cabinets are in good condition, leave them alone! You can completely transform the look of your kitchen with thoughtful pops of color and pattern around the cabinets.

DESIGNER

tip

Start with one print or pattern that you love, and the rest will fall into place.

THE BATHROOM For the bathroom, the overall design once again began with a wallpaper that Wafzig had been aching to use—Lepidoptera Willow Green—a butterfly print by British company Woodchip & Magnolia. “This is another interior room in the house with no windows, so it needed some life,” shares Wafzig. To keep the print from feeling too overwhelming, Wafzig installed wainscotting on the lower two-thirds of the walls, with the paper acting as the artwork on the upper third. Wafzig enlisted her husband once again to create a vanity moment, utilizing salvaged wood and an oversized vintage mirror. She pulled a kicky yellow from the wallpaper for the entire vanity, then hand painted the large butterfly above the mirror. The black-and-white woven plaid tile from the Tile Shop brings another level of dimension to the room. Rather than a shower that would take up precious square footage, she opted for a free-standing soaking tub by Signature Hardware, along with an exposed tub faucet. As beautiful as the hardware is, Wafzig cleverly installed the faucet behind the tub to keep her kiddos from accidentally using it as a handle.

The hand painted garden stool is another of Wafzig’s creations, and serves as the perfect place to set a cup of tea for a nice warm soak. For one final pop of fun, flanking the mirror are two chartreuse Polly sconces from Stray Dog Designs, designed by Jane Gray and ethically made by artisans in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. In a time when everyday life can feel a bit draining and dull, brighten up your home with color. If you’re unsure of where to begin, follow Wafzig’s lead—start with one print or pattern that you love, and the rest will fall into place. N

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Creati n g a Ho m e O f f i c e M A K I N G YO U R H O M E WO R K F O R YO U

If working from home full time is your new normal, do yourself a favor and stop working at the kitchen table! Carve out a small but functional work space for yourself, your partner, or the school-aged kids in your household with these simple steps:

Find your niche

shelves, a small bookshelf, or a rolling

If you don’t have an entire spare room to

cart to store items that you use on

dedicate as a home office, no problem.

a daily basis (headset, pad of paper,

The space doesn’t have to be large to

pens). Store less-frequently used

be functional. Find an unused corner

items in a nearby closet. Maintaining

in the living room, guest room, or even

a clean workspace will free your mind

your bedroom. It only needs to be wide

for pleasant productivity.

enough to fit a small desk.

Take a seat

Add some whimsy Use vibrant tones and stimulating

Scroll Facebook Marketplace to find a

patterns to make your new workspace

used desk. Look for something compact

inviting and inspiring. Start by

that will fit into your designated office

choosing a color that will complement

niche, and also in your car when you

the rest of the room, then paint

pick it up from the seller. (Contactless

a colorful arch or mural. For an

pickup is the norm for FB Marketplace

integrated, seamless look, take it one

nowadays.) Add a comfortable chair, a

step further by painting your new

back pillow, and a small task lamp.

(used) desk in the same color. Add fun abstract artwork like the print from

Keep it simple To keep the potential for clutter to a

manifestjess.com, and some lowmaintenance succulents.

minimum, keep it simple. Use floating TURN TO PAGE 32 FOR TIPS ON PAINTING YOUR OWN MURAL!

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Sh ow Us Yo ur Nest! C h eck ou t t hese b eaut if ul reader sub mit ted h om e of f i ces! We’re t horoug hly impressed . U s e th e h a s h ta g # SO nest y to show us your wor k space!

S UBM I TTE D BY S E LEN A

SU B MITTED B Y LEXI

S UBM I TTE D BY LI SA

SU B MITTED B Y MICHELE

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

T R END A LERT Outdoor Oasis

PLANTER

PILLOW

Classic Ceramic Planter

Two-Tones Geo Sol

in Peach, 8”, $47

Indoor/Outdoor Pillow

peachandpebble.com

in Yellow, $29 worldmarket.com

Outdoor patios are quickly becoming a favorite spot to dine, recline, and unwind. Keep it cool with your own private movie theater, then cozy it up with a firepit and s’mores.

RUG BY T A YLOR T I T US

COOLER Metal Cooler by Foster & Rye, $74 wayfair.com

River Geometric Handmade Area Rug by Erin Gates by Momeni, 7’ x 9’, $273 wayfair.com

WOODEN GAMES Jenga Giant

FIREPIT

DISHES

JS6, $99

Luxeve Smokeless Fire

Melamine Plates in

amazon.com

Pit, Bronze Vein in

Yellow by Thunder

LED Outdoor String

Black, $1,425

Group, $24 for 12

Lights, 48FT, $39

breeo.co

webstaurantstore.com

amazon.com

LIGHTS

HAMMOCK Handwoven Teal Green Hammock,

PATIO SET

$189

Newbury 3-Piece

PROJECTOR

Outdoor Patio Set in

Portable Mini Projector in

White, $3,499

White, $69

target.com

outdoorprojectorscreen.co

artissanos.com

DIY Pa i n te d M ural By now, you’ve probably heard of color-blocking, or painted murals. They’re taking over Pinterest and Instagram, and with good reason—they’re a quick and affordable way to bring character into your home. They’re the modern day accent wall, and we’re all about it. Follow along with our simple tips and tricks...

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SHAPE IT UP • Choose your shapes: stripes, arches, half circles, rainbows, triangles. • Repeat those shapes at varying sizes in different colors. • Overlap and intersect shapes. This is where the magic happens!

SKETCH OUT YOUR DESIGN WITH PENCIL • To make round shapes (circles, arches, rainbows), create your own compass using a pushpin, twine, and a pencil. • Use FrogTape to tape off straight lines, and free-hand the curves. (No need to be perfect!) • If you do stripes, use a level and make the stripes the same width as the level (typically two and a half inches wide), which allows you to trace both sides of the level, cutting your time in half.

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USE QUALITY MATERIALS • Use a paint with great coverage, like Clare paint! (see page 19) • When we say that we LOVE the “Shortcut Angle Sash” brush from Wooster...we mean it. Hands down, the best brush we’ve ever used. Order three. We promise. • For tiny details, grab a pack of decent quality art brushes. You’ll want to have a few on hand, so you can dedicate one to each color you’re using!

STAND BACK • Stand back often and take pics with your phone to make sure you’re happy with how it’s turning out. It’s actually easier to see spots that need adjusting through a composed photo than with your naked eye.

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MISTAKES HAPPEN • Unless you’ve got hands as steady as a surgeon, you’re bound to make mistakes. Don’t sweat it—just paint over them, or make the shape bigger.

ENJOY! • Now it’s time to revel in your creativity. YOU DID THAT! And we want to see! Use the hashtag #SOnesty to share your creation with us.

THE HISTORY OF DESIGN

C OLOR C UR IO S ITIES BY TOM SEABROOK We tend to picture history in shades of black, white, grey, and sepia, thanks to the earliest photographs we have. But the past was not strictly somber; in fact, most of human history has been awash in vibrant color. Take a journey through time to learn more about historical colorways. 1. PATRIOTIC PALETTE When we think of George Washington, Ben Franklin, and other people of the Revolutionary War era, we don’t usually think of bold interior design choices. But as examples like the interior of Independence Hall in Philadelphia show that colorful walls and furniture were all the rage in the late 1700s. Are you brave enough to rock colors like this in your home?

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

2. BEETLEJUICE! Certain beetles and other bugs can provide colorful dyes. Native Americans prized the red dye of the cochineal, which was exported to Europe in colonial times and is still used today, even though we now have synthetic alternatives. This dye is sometimes used in food coloring, too, so you may have eaten bugs without even knowing it! 3. STATUESQUE SPECTRUM The cities of Ancient Greece and Rome were uniformly built of gleaming white marble, right? While that’s the impression we get today from statues in museums, the ancients in reality loved color. Statues of gods and heroes were often brightly painted and gilded, lending them an almost garish look to our modern eyes. Centuries of being outdoors stripped

the ancient statues of their original paint jobs. 4. IT’S EASY BEING GREEN Did you know that the Statue of Liberty was not originally green? When it was built out of copper in the 1880s, its natural color was a brownish shade similar to that of a penny. As a result of years of exposure to the elements in New York Harbor, Lady Liberty quickly took on her familiar green patina—now just as iconic as her crown and torch. 5. FINE HANDIWORK Before color photography became the norm, black and white photos were often colored by hand (kind of like a paint by number). In photos from the Civil War, soldiers’ belt buckles and buttons were touched up with gold paint to make them shine. In the early 1900s, entire portraits were sometimes tinted to make the subject really come to life. 6. BABY BLUES The association of blue with baby boys and pink with baby girls is quite recent. About 100 years ago, the color recommendations were actually flipped—blue for girls, pink for boys. Go back even further and the distinction disappears altogether; in earlier times, all babies wore white dresses, which made it much easier to do the laundry!

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

HOUSE TOUR

CONTRASTING COLORS

the brain behind the design

TEXT BY JASMINE BIBLE + PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAMERON REYNOLDS PHOTOGRAPHY

dmittedly, Cheryl Luckett isn’t a cook. She’s a highly sought after interior designer with little time left over to work on her own home. The kitchen in her 1990s cottage bungalow in Huntersville, North Carolina, had served her minimal cooking needs well enough for 13 years, but when the time came to finally take the plunge, she knew she wanted to create a functional space that was not only full of color and pattern, but also meaningful. “Design is about creating a pretty space, but it’s so much more than that. It’s really about crafting a space that is a representation of who you are and the things you love,” explains Luckett. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the layout started with the Magnolia banquette from her own five-piece capsule collection for Sylvester Alexander furniture, Belle by Cheryl Luckett. The lines of the silhouette are reminiscent of her Mississippi roots, finished in a luxe chenille fabric by Revolution Performance Fabrics.

DESIGNER Cheryl Luckett LOCATION Huntersville, NC INSTAGRAM @dwellbycheryl WEBSITE dwellbycheryl.com Follow along with Luckett for more home design inspiration, and to enroll in her semi-annual design courses.

DESIGNER

tip Love this banquette as much as we do? Visit dwellbycheryl.com to view the full Belle by Cheryl Luckett collection.

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DESIGNER

tip

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When mixing tiles in a single space, look at designer collections. The pros have often created a line of tiles that work well together without being too matchy-matchy.

With the banquette set, she moved onto the color scheme, beginning with the cabinets. While the popular opinion may have been to repaint the cabinets, Luckett chose to keep the honey oak finish: “The floors in the living room are also honey oak, so to have some connectivity throughout the home, I chose to work with it, and in doing so, that really drove the entire color scheme.” The quartz countertop and the matte black hardware from Schaub completely transform their look.

ikat-esque pattern of the Annie Selke Shadow Navy ceramic tile from the Tile Shop, confident it would make the type of bold statement for which she’s known. For the floor, she chose to not overpower the wall pattern, selecting the subtle Watercolor Lines pattern from the same Annie Selke collection, knowing the colors would work well together. “The flooring pattern resembles seersucker suit fabric, and everyone, especially men, always reach down to touch it,” laughs Luckett.

To counterbalance the warmth of the cabinets, Luckett chose complementary blue for the floors and backsplash. She fell in love with the

For the draperies, Luckett chose Auretta in persimmon from Robert Allen’s Dwell Studio collection, which perfectly encompasses the oranges and

blues while offering additional colors to pull from. One of Luckett’s favorite bits of design advice? “Start with a thing!” she says. Find something you absolutely adore and let it dictate the entire color story. Knowing that colors work together gives you the clarity and conviction to make fun choices, like the yellow bar stool fabric, matched to a yellow in the draperies. Clever functional solutions are peppered throughout, including the beautiful antique mirrored cabinet above the refrigerator, which hides her TV—a must for Sunday football.The laundry closet got a glamorous upgrade thanks to custom upholstery with nailhead detailing and show-stopping hardware from Adison Weeks, a Charlotte-based jeweler and designer. The once forgettable corner nook now serves as a mudroom, the slender console providing a landing spot for keys and sunglasses while gardening boots and yoga mats tuck neatly inside. The navy-on-white Tulip Seed wallpaper from Milton & King makes the small space feel special. Ray Heart artwork that reminds Luckett of her mom and sisters, along with a mirror from Wildwood Home, layer perfectly on top.

The icing on the cake is the lighting, all supplied by Hudson Valley, which brilliantly mixes traditional and modern pieces. When there wasn’t an outlet in the corner for the table lamp, Luckett had one installed. “Don’t let electrical scare you off. It’s a simple task for an electrician to add an outlet for a lamp, or install a wall sconce, or art light. The half-day rate is absolutely worth being able to add varying levels of lighting,” she emphasizes. Luckett’s final bit of advice? Head to Instagram to seek out local artisans and tradespeople. In this project alone she found and used local decorative painter Alicia Slayton of Organize-Create-Decorate to paint the island, local firefighter and woodworker Char’d Urban Wood Works for the white oak floating shelves, and Allison Ford Photography for the custom artwork between the door and the banquette. “Instagram has become somewhat of an online directory. It’s a great way to connect with and support local artisans in your community.” N

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

CURB APPEAL A ME R I C AN C O LO NI A L | E A R LYSV I L L E , V I R GI N I A

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C O L O R PA L E T T E Bright blue shutters and a cheerful yellow door help this stately home feel welcoming and inviting. The crisp white feels elegant and classic against the warm brick. Front Door: Daisy SW 6910 by Sherwin Williams Shutters: Jacaranda SW 6802 by Sherwin Williams

Jacaranda SW 6802

Trim: White Snow SW 9541 by Sherwin Williams

LIGHT FIXTURE A traditional silhouette with elegant and stately details, this 10 inch oilrubbed bronze fixture from Hinkley will cast a warm glow. Bromley Large Hanging Lantern, $269, hinkley.com

F O L I AG E We love the symmetry of the two beautiful crape myrtle trees. These deciduous trees provide year-round interest and color with their showy summer blooms, colorful fall foliage, and attractive winter bark. Ideally, plant them in the spring, allowing them time to establish their roots before winter. Be sure to place them in a full-sun

White Snow SW 9541

area and water well.

PINEAPPLE F O U N TA I N Pineapples have

TOPIARIES AND PLANTER B OX E S

long been a symbol

If your front porch

guests. Aitkin Concrete

is shaded, faux

Pineapple Fountain by

plants may be a

Darby Home Co., $1,099,

great option. These

wayfair.com

of friendship and hospitality, making this pineapple fountain the perfect way to welcome

triple ball boxwoods are surprisingly convincing and look fabulous all year long. 5.5’ Triple Ball Boxwood Artiﬁcial

For a house of this

Topiary Tree, $269,

scale, you need a

nearlynatural.com

door knocker with

Place your topiaries into a regal looking

Daisy SW 6910

DOOR KNOCKER

square planter box for an elegant effect. 16 in. x 16 in. Black Resin Composite Square Planter Box by Southern Patio, $80, homedepot.com

some heft. This ornate, hand-crafted steel knocker in an oilrubbed bronze finish will do the trick. San Michele Door Knocker, $225, birchlane.com

HOUSE TOUR

CALMING COOLS

the brain behind the design

TEXT BY JASMINE BIBLE + PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIVING WITH THE LAMBERTS

ith an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work from NC State, mental health therapist Kylie Lambert can attest to the direct connection between your physical space and mental space. “It’s really incredible to see how much a space can affect your mood,” shares Lambert. “A home should create a sense of calm, comfort, safety.” To that end, when it came to designing her home, she began with a backdrop of white, beige, and grey with gold and matte black accents. This Scandinavian-style base palette allows her to swap out the accents—be it a wall color, pillows, or artwork.

DESIGNER Kylie Lambert LOCATION Fuquay-Varina, NC INSTAGRAM @livingwiththelamberts WEBSITE livingwiththelamberts.com Follow along with Lambert for home decor and DIY tips.

One of the first rooms that Lambert tackled when she and her husband moved into their Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, home in 2019 was the front room, which was previously used as a formal dining room. “While it would be a pretty dining room, it would be a waste of space for our family. I want to use every inch of my home, and I knew it would be far better utilized as my home office,” she explains. To capitalize on the abundance of natural light, she placed a large mirror on top of the blue and grey wallpaper, which beautifully bounces the light around the room. A crisp white was used on the lower wainscotting, and Repose Gray by Sherwin Williams brings a touch of warmth to the remaining upper walls. The furnishings were kept to a strict palette of white and gold, resulting in a cohesive and somewhat delicate tone. A Serena & Lily basket cleverly hides her paper shredder, and a plush rug rests underfoot, grounding the desk.

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READING NOOK Throughout Lambert’s home there is a feeling of intention—each object has been carefully chosen. “Sure, it’s easy to see an insanely expensive piece of furniture or room on Pinterest or Instagram, but you don’t need to spend a lot of money to create a home you love. It’s important to be intentional with every piece that you bring into your home. Will you love it a year, five years?” asks Lambert. This rings true in her reading nook, a main selling feature for her when they bought the home. An avid reader since her youth, she has a large collection of books from both her adulthood and childhood and was thrilled to find a home with built-ins. Arranging a portion of the books in a rainbow pattern adds a touch of playfulness and makes her smile each time she enters the room. The comfortable leather chair was passed down from her parents, as were the gold candle sticks and antique gold clock that adorn the shelves. The gold swing-arm reading light illuminates the space at night, upping the cozy factor.

WHERE TO START Love Lambert’s style? Begin with a neutral palette, then add in colors that spark happiness and a few do-it-yourself projects. Her advice on DIY? “Just try it! Start with a small project and try it. Hiring a professional can be so expensive. So for somewhat straightforward things like board and batten, just do it yourself !” 44

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

When you enter a room that’s

DESIGNER

tip

calm and clean, your mental chatter goes down.

BATHROOM For the guest bathroom, Lambert initially thought she would use a navy blue for the cabinets, but found herself drawn to greens. “Greens are so grounding. I love nature, the mountains, being outdoors, and the green felt almost like being wrapped in a warm blanket,” says Lambert. She brought home a ton of paint samples and finally settled on Rainforest by Behr. A simple coat of primer and paint, along with new hardware, helped to completely transform the space on a small budget. She shares, “It’s truly amazing how much a little paint can do.”

GUEST ROOM The last stop on our tour of Lambert’s home is her guest room, which she recently redid, installing a huge grid accent wall. This was one of the biggest DIY projects she tackled, and she’s thrilled with the results. “My husband Kyle is so supportive and such a great teacher. He’s really helped me to feel confident in my abilities to use power tools.” To keep from feeling overwhelmed, she broke the process down step by step and opted for a large-scale pattern, which requires fewer cuts, less installing, and less caulking. Two coats of Dard Hunter Green by Sherwin Williams complete the look, bringing dimension and interest to the entire room. N

NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

WHAT IS

LIVING IN PLACE? TEXT BY AARON BIBLE

THE EXPERT ERIK LISTOU, Co-Founder Living In Place Institute livinginplace.institute

MAKING YOUR HOME SAFE, HEALTHY, AND COMFORTABLE You’ve heard of “aging in place,” but who wants to get old? We prefer to live! And that’s the concept behind the Living In Place Institute, a worldwide network of educators, contractors, and builders working together to make all homes safe, healthy, and comfortable. We had a chance to chat with cofounder Erik Listou, who shared with us the history of the Institute and offered a few practical ideas to improve safety and wellness in our homes. Established in 2013, the Living In Place Institute began with a vision to make all homes safer through awareness, education, and training. While the housing industry has long recognized some of these needs, most of the programs that existed before were limited to aging in place. The Institute’s approach is not about aging, it’s about living in your home, regardless of age or ability. So what can we do right now to improve the overall safety of our homes for today and the future? Follow along for four of Listou’s recommendations.

HAND RAILS Hand rails on both sides look great and provide extra safety.

COLOR CONTRAST Medical experts have helped us better understand how color differences trigger depth perception. So to encourage stable footing, you want to use high contrast or low contrast colors in the appropriate places. When it comes to flooring, if there is a change in height (a step down into a sunken living room, or up into an elevated dining room, for example), then you want to use materials with a high contrast so that your subconscious brain knows to automatically adjust your footing faster than you could consciously make the decision. High contrast colors are also useful in spaces you want to call attention to, like a handrail, stairs, or the corner edge of a countertop. Conversely, if the flooring is on the same level plane, you want to Pull-down shelf system from rev-a-shelf.com

use low-contrast colors or materials. Otherwise your brain will again automatically signal for you to adjust your footing, causing a misstep or fall.

KITCHEN CABINETS The rule of thumb is simple: To safely reach objects, nothing should be placed above the nose or below the knees. So how do we make the best use of floor-to-ceiling cabinets? The cabinet organizing industry (yes, that’s a thing!) now offers devices that can be installed in most cabinets that either lower or raise the cabinet insides, so everything is easier to reach. Seriously cool. Another easy and inexpensive addition? LED lights inside your cabinets (to illuminate those forgotten chips hiding in the back).

TOILET SEATS Rarely do we place the words luxury and toilet seats in the same sentence, but today’s toilet seats truly are luxurious. There are various options, but the full-featured models include self-raising lids, heating, washing, and sanitizing. Medical professionals encourage their use for everyone regardless of gender or age, citing the reduction in infections and ease of use. These automated toilet seats Washlet bidet by Toto, wayfair.com

replace your existing toilet seat, and any licensed electrician will be able to add the proper electrical outlet behind your toilet. While you’ve already got a pro there, ask them to also install an outlet under each sink so that you can add voice-controlled faucets.

TOWEL BARS According to the Vision Council of America, approximately 75% of adults use some sort of vision correction. We often aren’t wearing our glasses or contacts in the bathroom, which can leave some of us a little wobbly. For an added level of safety, it’s smart to install towel bars that can hold at least 250 pounds of weight, should someone need to steady themselves. A vertical bar in the shower or tub entry (a great idea for pregnant women!) is also smart. There are plenty of sleek options that you can match to your existing decor.

LEARN MORE AT LIVINGINPLACE.INSTITUTE

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Making the( U P ) G R A D E diy is great for small projects, but don’t be afraid to call in the experts for big jobs!

up to

90% ROI

deck, patio, or porch addition

up to

90% ROI

basement remodel

up to

89% ROI

window replacement

up to

85% ROI

HVAC replacement

What type of return can I expect for upgrading my home? Doing home improvement projects can be a great way to increase the value of your home, and may result in some extra cash in your pocket when you’re

up to

83% ROI

upgrade insulation

ready to sell. But not all upgrades are created equal. Take a look at these home updates that can get you a hefty return on your investment (ROI). Check with your Nest agent to get an idea of how an update would impact your home value in current and future market conditions. The exact amount will depend on the value of your house, but here are some ballpark ROIs:

up to

106% ROI

new wood flooring

up to

98% ROI

minor kitchen remodel

up to

102% ROI

minor bathroom remodel

up to

95% ROI

exterior improvements (siding, paint, entry)

Sources: National Association of Realtors and Remodeling.net

up to

100% ROI

landscaping

up to

94% ROI

garage door replacement

up to

65% ROI

roofing replacement

up to

50% ROI

adding a new bathroom

up to

40% ROI

upgrading living room walls and floors

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE NEST

Here at Nest, we are dedicated to being more than your agent... we’re your friend, your neighbor, and your support network. Because at the end of day, we all share the same Nest.

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NEST MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2021