Ole Decor Fall 2010 by Ole Decor Magazine

FALL 2010

EXQUISITE!

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FALL 2010

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FALL 2010

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in next issue Letter from the Editor Fall is here, the air is cooler, kids are back at school, tourists are gone, and a quiet peace returns to the valley, just in time to welcome hundreds of thousands of winter visitors from all across North America. For this very reason, we have decided to feature the World Birding and Nature Center on South Padre Island. Beginning in September, and in full swing all throughout October and November, our beautiful feathered friends flock to our valley to enjoy the sun, warm water, and lush accommodations. They are the original winter Texans, and the brand new World Birding Center on South Padre Island is a world-class viewing stage, educational institution, and modern museum all rolled up into one incredible destination. Pack the kids and your binoculars and treasure all the gifts nature brings to the World Birding Center, SPI. Our Luxury Living editorial showcases a contrast in styles, within a contrast of style. One of the homes is the epitome of Modern architecture, space planning, and specially décor. Built around an open floor plan, most of the house is a study in white, gray, and black. The only bursts of color are found in the formal artwork adorning the walls, and even this is sparingly used. The home is really about creating a feeling of serenity, order, and balance, very much reflecting the way many of us wish to live our lives, with clarity, purpose, and harmony. Our second home is a complete contrast to the first. Built and decorated with warmth and wood, color and softness, this home delivers the feeling of rejoining nature cradled in the arms of plush comfort. Bare feet walk on hand scraped wood floors, tired bones are enveloped in plush leather furniture; counters are covered in granite, flowing with the colors of the river they were created from. This home is really about relaxing, unwinding, and inviting friends and family over to do the same. Amidst the very strong Modern influences springing up all over the valley, we thought it would be fun and another nice contrast, to feature an editorial dedicated to “Decorating with Antiques. In the year 2010, antiques are not only pieces dated from the Victorian era or old wood Colonial pieces of furniture. Actually most general antique stores label objects 50 years or older as antiques. This means that a mod egg-shaped chair from 1959 is now considered antique. So is that laminate kitchen table with the chrome legs and diner chairs. The trick to decorating with antiques is how to incorporate them into your contemporary décor, without making your home feel like a museum, and without sending a message that you are stuck in a time capsule. Enjoy hunting for antique treasures, and refer to our guide when it comes to making them work in your home. Oh, and personally, if any of you come across any plaster-of-paris, iridescent, tropical fish wall ornaments from the late 50’s or early 60’s please email me immediately. Eddie and I recently became scuba certified and everything is coming up fishes! Eddie and Sandy`

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on the cover / contact

How many of you can’t wait, count down the days, excitedly anticipate the moment it arrives…your next dental appointment? Well, until now we felt the same way about a trip to the dentist, but Ole Décor is going to change your mind. With incredibly beautiful patient waiting rooms, lovely exam rooms, and loads of design, décor, and ambience, we are going to open your eyes to the delight in visiting a very special RGV dentist office, equipped with spa like amenities. This is going to be one special edition of Fabulous Spaces, Public Places we can’t wait to sink our teeth into. Ole Décor brings you aluminum, antique, brass, bronze, ceramic, glass, stainless steel, pewter, iron, porcelain, stained glass, hand painted, modern, levers, ball, octagonal, oval, and sprung geo HARDWARE. “Decorating with Hardware” lets you in on a little known but powerful design detail, door knobs. Hardware gives a very distinct look to any door, but also the entire room’s décor. A door knob can actually be a very classy, and expensive, piece of art. And if we have impressed you with this list of door knobs, wait until you read about all the cabinet hardware options! Our standard favorites join us again. Sorteo Tec in Monterrey is going strong with Lucky Number 183. If you are considering building modern, literally take a page from our Sorteo Tec article and march straight away to your builder or architect. It’s full of ideas, exactly what you’re looking for. EcoFriends as always, combines beauty, functionality, and energy consciousness together with materials and suppliers dedicated to leaving less of a carbon footprint, and more of a spectacular impression. Visit the galleries listed in the gallery guide for your perfect splash of fall color, and while you’re at it, have a delicious sandwich at Artline America. “I bought a little mansion in South Texas, a little hide-a-way for my family and me, I won’t have to work too hard to pretty up the front yard, all I gotta do is give it a new tin roof, and every night we’re going to tuck in tight, under my new tin roof, in a big brass bed, going to listen to the raindrops beatin’ overhead, singing rat-a-tat-tat-a-tat-tat, my kids are going to love that, and I’m going to love them too, Under my new tin roof.” Ole Décor’s love of roofs inspired our next issue’s Outdoor Living editorial featuring every type of roof imaginable, from simple tin to imported hand made clay. We’ll educate you on the best materials, prices, practicality, and most importantly, what a new roof can do for your home’s structural integrity, energy efficiency, and curb appeal.

Built by Energy Star certified, and Luxury home builder, 5 Star Builders p.13 Design and layout, Banda Lucas Design Group p.12 Spiral chandelier embraces table centerpiece, Light House Lighting Center p.9 Dining room set showcases wood, leather, fabric and brass, Tropical Home Furnishings p.17

Visit: www.oledecor.com read current & past issues link to advertisers view episodes

Call: sales: 956-266-8663 fax: 956-761-2388 Email: eddie@oledecor.com Olé Decor offices: 5800 Padre Blvd. Ste. 206 A&B South Padre Island, TX 1520 Dove Ave. Suite E McAllen, TX Mailing address: P.O. Box 40101 South Padre Island, TX 78597 Ooops: Ole Décor would like to make a correction. Superior Stone/Custom Creations owned by Carl Nelsen is located in Alamo, TX.

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52 contents: Luxury Homes, Par 5 Contempofriendly

14 22

Fine Art Gallery Guide

Sorteo Tec Lucky Number 182

Indoor Living Timeless Beauty

Eco Friends Pangea Floor Coverings

Fabulous Spaces, Public Places SPI Birding Center 52

22 36

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Decorating with Reflecting on Mirrors

In next issue: Crown Your House Casa Remodel Eco Friends Luxury Living Fabulous Spaces, Public Places Gallery Guide Sorteo Tec #183 Adorn Your Door Contact us: Ole DĂŠcor Magazine 956-266-8663 |eddie@oledecor.com www.oledecor.com | printed in mexico

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Locations:

Superior Granite-Marble maintains elevated quality standards, and enormous attention is devoted to product selection, planning, processing and finish. Whether your project is a five-star hotel, or a kitchen remodel, our Design Experts work closely with homeowners, architects, contractors and designers to provide comprehensive solutions and service. Our success is based on quality control. We are the largest slab wholesaler in South Texas. We enjoy helping our clients select from our substantial inventory of granite, marble, slate, travertine, limestone and onyx from India, Brazil, Portugal, Spain, Italy and Turkey.

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www.BandaLucasDesignGroup.com

Custom Residential Design & Commercial Specialists Banda Lucas Design Group

30 Providencia CT. Ste. 5E Brownsville, TX 78526 Office: 956.621.3061 Fax: 956.621.3062

Our Services Include: Residential Design Commercial Design Project Coordination Rescheck Comcheck Master Planning Remodel Design ICF Design Green Design Finish Outs 3D Renderings TDI Approved Landscape Design

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Mediterranean • Contemporary • Beach • Traditional • Hacienda • Luxury

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The Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premiere Energy Star Home Builder Since 2000, Five Star Builders has been crafting custom homes throughout Cameron County. We make it our personal goal to build 100% Energy Star rated homes. As a business we believe in keeping up with ever-changing codes and strive to stay on top of new building advances, as a result, we now oďŹ&#x20AC;er ICF construction. Let us help you to achieve the home of your dreams!

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Luxury Living

Par Five

www.oledecor.com/vt/parfive Laguna Vista, Texas

Special thanks to top rated 5 Star Builders p13. Construction. Master plan & design by Banda Lucas Design Group, p.12 Red Tile roof by ABC Supply p.27 Indoor Outdoor Decorative and Functional lighting supplied by lighthouse lighting center, p.9 Decorative cantera columns by Cantera Rancho Alegre, p.12

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Nestled within the sprawling greens of the South Padre Island Golf Course, this luxury built home catches the wandering eye with its elegant appeal and charm. The practically maintenance free, concrete tile roof gives this home an irresistible Mediterranean shine that is difficult to surpass. When you enter their sweeping driveway large enough for many guests, your eyes seem to immediately admire the exquisite, composite wood stained garage doors on the generous three-car garage. This uniquely, elegant look definitely sets this custom made dream home apart from the rest of the neighborhood.

The custom made grand entrance leads into the natural lit interior featuring Mohawk, exotic handscraped wood flooring, which enhances the beauty of this fully exposed entertaining domain. From the moment that you enter this Energy Star certified home, all eyes are drawn to the magnificently inviting bar that wraps around the kitchen making a statement as the focal point of this home. The extensive, luxury filled kitchen features Thermador appliances, including a 48â&#x20AC;? gas cook top, fit for a five star chef. An intimate hallway guides you through the knotty alder pine door into the massive, primary master suite. Double doors lead

you into the custom designed bathroom that sets a high standard of luxury and class. Set apart by its Kohler electronic shower controller featuring body sprays and massage therapy, this bathroom relies on twin Bosch tankless, gas water heaters that provide a steady supply of relaxing hot water. If you are not in the mood for an invigorating shower, you could always relax in the wood wrapped, corner Jacuzzi great for soothing long day stress. A quick glimpse back into the bedroom allows you to see the beautiful view of the glistening Resaca through the Showcase impact resistant windows. To

capture more of this view, you can step outside through the convenient door attached to the vast patio surrounded by gorgeous views of breathtaking landscaping. The large slate patio stretches across their tropical backyard featuring a palapa covered hot tub. While relaxing or gathering, the trickle of the man made creek can be heard flowing from the majestic waterfall appealing to all of the senses. After a warm soak in the hot tub, you can cool off within the climate controlled home all thanks to the 2X6 exterior walls with Rockwool Insulation to protect from heat and cold, and the single Bryant Evolution A/C with zoned controls that carefully handles the temperatures room by room, making the home comfortable no matter where you are. Right across from the entertainment atmosphere of

the sprawling bar, two bedrooms offer a dose of relaxation and tranquility for guests to enjoy. One bedroom, or secondary master, beholds beautifully crafted travertine floors and a

Clockwise from top left: Master bedroom furniture ties into nature, from Tropical Home Furnishings, p.17 Wood ceiling fan in bedroom and patio echoes floors and furniture, from Light House Lighting Center p.9 Leather furniture in family room is soft and comfortable, from Tropical Home Furnishings, p.17 Outdoor Palapa shades spa, by Custom Creations, p.18 Pavers and water feature stones by Southern Stone, p.50 Palapa cantera supports by Cantera Rancho Alerge, p.12 Multihued travertine floor supplied by Premier Granite, p.18

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customized master bathroom for the most lavish of guests. This high standard washroom allows guests to enjoy the highest quality of serenity and calm. With a walk in shower complete with a ¾ Moen shower system this bathroom is a wonderful way to unwind at the end of the day. Next to the secondary master is another beautiful guest bedroom that doesn’t disappoint. Complete with a bathroom this bedroom has all the amenities for a short-lived visit. This extraordinary 3,000 square foot home certainly surpasses any expectations for a lavish, custom built home. With high standards of luxury and quality, this home is sure to never disappoint. Built with the owner’s lifestyle in mind, this custom built masterpiece combines design and personal styles into a home that is highly customized and uniquely its own. As with any home built by Five Star Builders, there is a high criterion of efficiency and beauty. Like all Five Star homes, this beautiful work of art is rated at 130 mph seaward code,

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which translates into homeowner discounts and insurance savings. With Five Star Builders, not only do you get your beautiful dream home, but also a sense of safety and stability that is irreplaceable.

Contributing Writer: Cheyenne Allgood

Custom kitchen and bath cabinetry, by Paredes Cabinetry & Design, Opposite Page Top of the line Thermadore appliances by Morrison, p.28 Interior Decorator Tropical Home Furnishings, Opposite Page Decorative lighting accents kitchen counter space, from Light House Lighting Center p.9

THE ART OF COASTAL LIVING

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4605 E. Ruben Torres | Brownsville 956.541.1300

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FALL 2010

Luxury Living

Contempofriendly Pharr, Texas This posh, contemporary home was built with the resident in mind â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a young, vibrant couple who loves to entertain. A unique, balance of style and utility makes the home pleasant and livable. The overall concept when it came to designing the living spaces and selecting materials was to make this modern-day home stylish without being intimidating, and elegant without being stifling. The grandiose floor plan of this contemporary home incorporates large, open spaces keeping in mind practicality, such as making the kitchen accessible to multiple rooms through open venues. The master bedroom simulates a private retreat, a haven. Reproducing a motif of practicality, a second bedroom and home-office remain close enough to the master bedroom. There are two other bedrooms on the opposite side of the home, each with access to a complete, opulent bath, generous storage space and ample closets that create access to the back yard from numerous areas in the house without wasting indispensable space. A unique sense of originality was achieved

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through vibrant lighting selections throughout this exquisite home. Bold, sturdy chandeliers adorn key rooms in the house; thus, become the focal point in setting the tone and vibe to each room. Other pivotal features in this home are the large expanses of glass and high ceilings that adorn this home in an exquisite manner. As guests enter the home, the scenic view to the outdoor patio and pool is inviting and adds an element of calmness, warmth, and sense of relaxation. The luxuriant design of the ceilings purposely becomes a way to draw attention to the large open spaces throughout the home by making one area connect with the other. One of focal points of the home is the lavish wet bar. The white alabaster inspires a color palette of greys, while beautiful, dark, grey porcelain tile is used throughout the home. Grey Venetian plaster was used on the foyer walls to help showcase the white walls and intricate ceilings.

Design and Construction by Courtesy Homes, p.21 Interior floor supplier by Materiales el Valle, p.32 Elegant custom hand made Chandeliers throughout by, European Lighting, p.26 Opposite page: Futuristic and extremely function flush cook top by Morrison, p.28 Informal dining set, Lacks, p.51

In addition, black, white, blue and red hues are used to provide a unique element of sophistication and contrast. Elegant, black granite is used for

the countertops in the kitchen, wet bar and bathrooms. Dark, bamboo wood floors in the bedrooms, again, serve the purpose of setting an element of drama to each room, hence, bringing attention to the high ceilings and magnificent lighting. Design of the stunning ceilings and careful selection of lighting fixtures for each room was like choosing a distinctive piece of artwork to adorn the room. The home has breathtaking, custom cabinetry that is stylish, yet polished and functional. Three specific areas that have custom cabinetry to achieve this purpose are the kitchen, family room, and master closet. The rest of the bedrooms have impressive built-in cabinets to help the occupant

organize clothes and other personal, valuable items, thus, helping to eliminate the need for unnecessary furniture in the bedrooms and providing more space. Home Entertainment, by D-Tronics, did an incredible and extraordinary job incorporating state of the art video and audio technology throughout this house. The theatre room falls nothing short of an actual movie theatre, visually and in sound, with a full THX 7.2 home theatre sound system that incorporates a massive 135â&#x20AC;? screen. As if that were not enough, it also has its very own dedicated Blue Ray Player. This takes any family movie night to the next level.

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Above you’ll see a Galactic theatre ceiling. The designers of this home brought everything together with the use of Control 4. This is the first home automation system that utilizes the Apple iPad © as a centralized, wireless remote control that makes this system unique in every way. The owner of this home has total control of the entire home automation and lighting, 10 centralized video sources, 5 video sources per video zone, 15 centralized audio zones, & night vision security system with 8 cameras viewable anywhere via internet 24 hours a day. The extensive backyard is a majestic retreat that provides an opportunity for a good deal of entertaining as well. The owners and their guests can enjoy the big game, or view their favorite concert on DVD on this 60’’ television with sound breaking, audio setup throughout the backyard provided by Home Entertainment. The choice of material was essential so that the patio, pool and outdoor kitchen are cohesive and flow

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with the rest of the house. The consistent color scheme of warm earth tones and natural rock was used to withstand the harsh outdoor elements, and yet, incorporate the same color motif throughout indoors. The aesthetics of using an eclectic variety of materials, such as stucco, rock, wood, and travertine are very pleasing to the eye of any architecture connoisseur making it extremely inviting.

Contributing Writer: Selene Diaz Home Theater and Control 4 complete home automation by Home Entertainment, p.20 Sunset Living Outdoor and Patio Furniture, p.57 Travertine Pool desking by Materiales el Valle, p.32 Custom inground pool and spa by Americana Pools, Opposite Page Bottom Right, Sculptures and Modern Deco mirror by NIU, p.49

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Fine Art

Artline America Inc. McAllen | 956.630.0076 Jackie’s gallery is called Artline America, and a typical gallery it is not! Step into an eclectic array of paintings, tapestries, and framed shadow boxes filled with various objects d’arte. Bring in your own treasure, and choose from over 1,000 custom framing possibilities. If you can’t make up your mind right away, think about your choices over a delicious home cooked lunch at the Masterpiece Café. Artwork surrounds you as quiet jazz music plays in the background. Jackie’s laughter will be heard as she spends time tableside talking with any one of her loyal customers, enjoying the afternoon at her restaurant and gallery. One visit to this special place and you’ll go out of your way to come back.

Gallery 218 Harlingen | 956.457-9401 The Brooklyn-Born Artist, Benjamin P. Varela, spent the early years of his life living in Queens. Ben was nine years old, when he and his family migrated to Puerto Rico. While in high school they moved to Wisconsin where Ben participated in wrestling, which eventually led him to compete in the Olympics. Even so, Ben also studied art and exhibited his art work. Throughout his artwork he portrays the economic depiction of the many changes, trials and tribulation of his journey. He states “I like to experiment with different mediums to have a unique appearance in my work. With my ideas, I am going to claim back a kingdom of imagination that is bound by reality on canvas, sculpture, or my expertise in print making.”

ZM Gallery McAllen | 956.618.4422 Maria Linzoain was born in Villa Maria in the province of Cordabo, Argentina. She graduated from the National University of Cordoba School of Arts with a Licentiate degree in Painting in 1987. She has taken part in international exhibitions in Madrid, Pittsburgh and Miami. She has had many collective and individual shows and has won international, national and provincial prizes. Talking with Maria is a way into a magical world where painting is most important. She speaks unhurriedly, explaining her work like someone describing a dear relative. The harmony of her personality and her calm gaze can be seen in the vibrant colours of each of her pieces.

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Live Entertainment

Free to Public

McALLEN DOWNTOWN

FARMERS MARKET AT ALHAMBRA

Come to McAllen's inaugural community based farmer's market. You now have access to the same local sustainable organic produce and meats that Alhambra uses on a daily basis to produce their award winning dishes. McAllen is blessed with an amazing growing season yet our supermarkets carry product from all over the world when we have it all here. Buying locally grown tastes thousands of miles better and supports our local economy. Join us every Saturday starting Oct 2, from 10 am to 2 pm. to meet your farmers. Get to know their names and their farming techniques. From the community for the community.

Vendors attending:

House Wine Buckeye Farms Rodriquez Farms Big river Greens Nicks urban Oasis Aiedas Backyard Lozano's Cakes Unlimited Idelmas Urban Garden Now accepting more vendors

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Design Showroom

Nora Design Showroom offers comfort and elegance. Uniquely fulfilling each design concept with attention to detail, and the look that fits every need and preference. From wallpaper, designer fabrics, window treatments, area rugs and more. Nora Design Showroom shapes the experience using extremely unique and rare specialty items, for your home or business.

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Bring us your dreams, Let us design your home.

Tony de la Tejera, Architect Terra Homes Corp. 1210 Elm Street Mission, TX

OďŹ&#x192;ce: (956) 580-3936 Cell: (956) 522-7648 At Terra Homes, we build more than just homes... we build ideas, your ideas. Our in-house design staďŹ&#x20AC; can personalize one of our exible oor plans, or design a custom one for your unique needs. need

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Sorteo Tec

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Lucky Number 182 COMFORT, RELAX Y FUNCIONALIDAD… EL HOGAR IDEAL La Casa del Tec correspondiente al 182º Tradicional Sorteo Tec denota en su exterior un estilo arquitectónico tradicional, pero basta con cruzar la puerta principal para disfrutar de un fresco ambiente contemporáneo y a la vez acogedor. Una residencia con aire de hogar gracias a sus amplias áreas sociales donde se pueden compartir momentos agradables en compañía de la familia o con un gran número de invitados. Poseedora de una atmosfera iluminada gracias a sus ventanales y pisos de mármol en tonos claros, donde cada detalle de decoración resulta ingeniosamente encantador, una casa invadida por el arte, el buen gusto y el deseo de que se convierta en la casa de los sueños del afortunado ganador. Las áreas sociales en esta residencia además de ser espectaculares resultan plurifuncionales, ya que la sala presume su amplia dimensión albergando tanto a la familia como a un gran numero de invitados, cuenta con: una sala doble, mesa de juegos y bar. Este es un espacio de líneas definidas, un cuadro muy amplio cuya geometría se ve enmarcada con el diseño del cielo en cuadricula de madera con vigas entrecruzadas, se suma la iluminación que brinda el piso de mármol color claro que contrasta con el tono nogal obscuro de las vigas. Para enmarcar todos estos detalles nos encontramos con el enorme ventanal que proyecta la vista hacia el jardín. Cada detalle es ingenioso y encantador, espejos de agua que brindan ese toque de calma y paz al hogar , las columnas de cantera que le imprimen carácter al espacio, la viguería de madera que integra las diferentes áreas y el espejo de muro completo que crea un efecto dramático a la residencia. Un jardín amplio completamente disfrutable, que se convertirá en la delicia de la familia, cuenta con asador y una hermosa alberca con diseño curvo que le otorga gran dinámica visual y que remata con una fuente de diseño tipo escultórico. La sala de cine como siempre equipada con lo ultimo en tecnología, gran calidad de video y un increíble sonido que invitan al relax y entretenimiento con la familia o los amigos, ya que cuenta con una barra y bancos altos para que más personas puedan disfrutar de este recinto. Los áreas intimas tienen su común denominador, son espacios limpios en cuanto a su estructura, de líneas muy simples, pero de proporciones generosas, bonitas vistas y con excelente iluminación natural. Los muebles de las recámaras son de tonos obscuros los cuales contrastan con los muros y cielos en tonos claros. Una decoración sutil y elegante, que cuida finamente cada detalle, logrando una apacible armonía que convierte a esta residencia en un acogedor hogar, accesible y vivible para todo el mundo. El objetivo es claro un estilo tradicional y sobrio en apariencia, pero que en el interior cuenta con todos los avances tecnológicos necesarios para vivir… funcional y estética al mismo tiempo.

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Green Is The New Gold

All Oceanside Glasstile is made primarily from silica sand, an abundant natural resource, with many colors also containing recycled content that may include pre-consumer*, post-industrial**, and/or post-consumer*** recycled bottle glass from curbside recycling programs.

Aesthetics and Quality of Life Because of its handcrafted nature and broad range of translucent and iridescent colors, Oceanside Glasstile is an exceptionally beautiful building material—an ideal choice for helping people create beautiful and comforting living spaces, conducive to health and productivity, all of which is part of green building. Bathroom and kitchen designs are often the centerpieces of today’s homes. Colors, fixtures, lighting, style, and comfort are all critical elements of these often used spaces. For builders hoping to incorporate a unique design while being environmentally responsible, recycled glass tiles can provide the best of both worlds. While community recycling programs and curbside collection have helped increase the amount of recycling in America today, as much as 70% of all glass still ends up in landfills. Because of the durable nature of glass, it doesn’t break down over time in landfills. To reduce landfill waste, recycled glass is used to make “glassphalt” for road surfaces, backfill, and stormwater drainage systems. It’s also used to make fiberglass insulation, reflective paint, and decorative tiles. These decorative glass tiles are ideal for builders and homeowners looking for a beautiful, colorful touch and a natural beauty. The translucent surface offers a look not found in other, more common types of tile. Oceanside Glasstiles are produced by melting down waste glass in furnaces heated to a temperature exceeding 2000F. The molten glass is then stamped into shape, hand trimmed, and ground to its finished form. This sort of workmanship gives each tile both a professional finish and a hand-crafted appeal. The benefits to homeowners who choose Oceanside Glasstile for their backsplash, bathroom floor, or other prominent area of the

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home are two-fold. First, our recycled glass tile is a good way to keep glass products from building up in landfills. In addition to helping conserve the environment, homeowners getting a unique product that adds style to their home. Oceanside Glasstiles come in a variety of colors and finishes, both matte and glossy, and are a durable way of decorating surfaces. They are easy to take care of too—you can use glass cleaner to care for them.

*Pre-consumer materials are generated during our manufacturing process and may consist of scrap and trimmings that were never used in the consumer market.

Durability as Part of Sustainability

***Post-consumer material is an end product that has completed its life cycle as a consumer item and would otherwise have been disposed of as a solid waste. Oceanside Glasstile’s post-consumer material is recycled bottle glass (cullet) from curbisde recycling programs.

Glass tile is a very strong building material that is impervious to water and freeze/thaw resistant. This long-lasting durability further adds to its sustainability. For example, breaking strength on all 4” x 4” Field Tile is approximately 900 pounds per square inch of force Oceanside Glasstiles can be used anywhere normal ceramic tiles would be installed, and they have the added benefit of being resistant to chemicals and stains, which makes them good for areas that are prone to getting wet. They can be installed on floors, walls, countertops, and tabletops among other locations.

**Post-Industrial: Material from manufacturing processes where virgin resources would otherwise go to waste. This material is collected and used in a product other than that for which it was originally used.

JC Cervantes, owner of Pangea is a proud retailer of Oceanside Glasstile. See opposite page.

www.gl asst i l e .com FALL 2010 614 N. 10th St. | 956.686.2990 | pangeafloor.com

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Indoor Living

Here are some tips on helping you decorate your home or special space with antiques and collectibles. How to decorate with antiques and collectibles:

Timeless BeauTy

1) Buy quality pieces. When you buy pieces to decorate your home, make sure they are made of good quality. Pieces that are not of good quality will show. They will look cheap and uninteresting. Quality pieces, however, will stand out as show pieces. They can be true works of art. They may be more expensive, but oftentimes these quality pieces will appreciate in time. Look at auction houses; pieces of poor quality usually do not sell as well or as much as those with good quality. 2) Know your overall design theme. If you are decorating with collectibles, make sure that they will work with the overall theme of the room you are designing. If you are designing with period pieces from the Victorian era, make sure that everything else in the room speaks Victorian. I am not saying avoid mixing and matching, for you can do so beautifully. Just make sure that majority of the pieces will speak of your overall design theme. 3) Group like items together. If you have a collection of blue and white potteries, instead of scattering them all

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over the room, why not put them in an étagère in the corner. Grouping like objects together makes your collections stand out more; they will have greater impact as the saying goes - “there is strength in numbers.” 4) Do not overcrowd. Keep this in mind when considering tip number four. When you do group items together, try not to overcrowd the items because they will not be appreciated by people looking at them. Make sure that when you decorate, that there is enough room for your pieces. It will look too busy when they are overcrowded. Remember, your home is not a flea market shop, so try to allot spaces in between your collections. 5) Put valuables and breakables inside a display case or cabinet. If you have high end items that are fragile or that are unique, make sure to display them in a case or cabinet. 6) Choose staging areas. Place your

bigger collectibles on a niche, as well as dressers and buffet tables. You can also stage them on your side tables, coffee tables, or sofa tables. Make sure that when you stage your pieces, you put them on similar themed furniture for cohesiveness. 7) Choose proper lighting. Make sure to have proper lighting to focus or highlight your antique pieces and collectibles. Having spot light and track light can help focus on individual pieces. 8) Use color to enhance your collections. I would suggest to those who are afraid of color to just paint one accent wall, which can be the focal background for collectible paintings and wall arts. 9) Make it homey. The biggest mistake others do when decorating with antiques and collectibles is that they decorate their homes simulating a museum. I would highly suggest avoiding this; your

home should reflect you and should still feel homey even when you have collectibles and antiques. Unless you have a large estate and there is a room just for your collections that you can prop up like a museum, you should keep your home feeling homey and comfortable in such a manner that people would want to stay and not be intimidated by your design.

so it is important to know a little bit of history of what you have. I am not saying be like a museum curator; after all, you would not want to bore them with too much details. Give them a small history and then add some fun information on how you were able to buy the pieces, where you went to buy them, and what great lengths you went through in order to get these items.

10) Know your stuff. A wonderful thing about designing with antiques and collectibles is that they can be great conversation pieces. When you have visitors, they for sure will ask questions about them,

Decorating with antiques and collectibles should not be difficult to do. As long as you follow the proper steps and basics of interior design, you should be able to display and enjoy your pieces.

Counter Clockwise from Opposite Page English Majolica circa 1880 flowered tea pot set. C. 1850 antique Russian kerosene Samovar. 120 Year old hand knotted 100% wool antique Persian Agra rug from Iran. 1950 America antique breakfront mahogany china cabinet.

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South padre island, Texas At the southern tip of the world’s longest barrier island, the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is a spectacular introduction to a world-class destination. The Birding and Nature Center is the South Padre Island “wing” of the World Birding Center. Located on Laguna Madre waterfront, the facility connects with the existing Laguna Madre Nature Trail. With over 306 recorded bird species and the convergence of neo-tropical songbirds that occur during the spring and fall migrations, the Island has become one of the premier birding locations in the Western Hemisphere. On its 50 acres near the convention center, the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center presents a microcosm of the rich habitats that contribute to this very special place. Dune meadows, salt marsh and intertidal flats are all represented here, along with thickets of native shrubs and trees that are irresistible to migrating birds in their season. For migratory birds, South Padre Island is a crucial first landfall - a lifesaver for birds making an arduous cross-Gulf migration from Southern Mexico and northern Central America. Especially after a spring storm, wooded lots of the island teem with an eye-popping rainbow of warblers, tanagers, orioles and thrushes. Wetlands harbor a range of shorebirds and waterfowl, while endangered species such as the Piping Plover and Peregrine Falcon may be found here as well. The initial phase of the Master Plan includes a new Birding and Nature Center, boardwalk nature trails and parking facilities. The Center offers 4500 square feet of exhibit space, a Gift Shop, Administration offices, Meeting Rooms and other public spaces. Birding and Nature Center offers tours as well as migration workshops that meet here during the spring and fall seasons. The island is a must-see sojourn during Harlingen’s Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival and McAllen’s Texas Tropics Nature Festival. National and state birding competitions are planned to be held here as well. Like many communities along the Texas Gulf Coast, South Padre Island is an eclectic mix of the architectural styles that represent the second half of the 20th Century. In recent years however, the town has begun to embrace a traditional mid-Atlantic coastal style that might be characterized as a Chesapeake

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Clapboard style. But design is not all about style. Modern coastal architecture must respond to strict codes for wind resistance and tidal surge protection. And the beautiful but environmentally sensitive sites along the barrier islands present additional design challenges. Designed by Richter Architects of Corpus Christi, the architecture of the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is reflective of all these influences. The color, character and detail of the design embraces the traditional coastal character of the region in a structure designed to resist coastal storms while treading lightly on sensitive coastal ecology. Visitors to the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center will enjoy a stroll on boardwalk nature trails that link all areas of the marsh and Laguna Madre shore. Interpretive panels provide interesting educational insights, while strategically placed blinds allow visitors to get a close-up view of the wildlife. Native planting areas near the convention center are always open to the public, and offer a convenient spot to view migrating songbirds, as well as the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dazzling butterfly population. Public restrooms will be open during daylight hours. An observation tower offers expansive vistas of the island â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the beach to the dunes, to the coastal grasses, the wetland marshes, the tidal wetlands and the Laguna Madre. The dynamic ecology of the barrier island is on display to the visitor discerning eye while the forces of sun, wind, salt and sand greet the other senses. Located on the Laguna Madre waterfront, the Birding and Nature Center uses effluent fresh water from an adjacent sewage treatment plant to enhance a unique bird habitat and a birding destination. The project brings together as many eco-tourism and environmental features / benefits in creating a significant destination that will serve to heighten public awareness of the natural wetland and estuary environment. It also highlights the diverse, dynamic and productive eco-system that exists at the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge. The design creates a symbiotic interface between habitats for birds and a place for people. Like the water that ties the land, the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is a focal point where many agencies can come together in a corporative effort to conserve, educate, and to propagate the vital ecology that provides food and shelter for plants, wildlife, birds and people.

Contributing Writer: David Richter Hurricane resistant windows & glass doors let in the light and the views by Harlingen Glass, p.61 Special thanks to Darla Lapeyre of the South Padre Island EDC for her tireless effort in coordinating all the pieces of the puzzle for this feature. Also, thank you to Terry Ray Construction in Brownsville and Richter Architects in Corpus Christi for giving our valley such an incredible place to appreciate nature.

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Decorating With

Reflecting on Mirrors Putting mirrors in your house can do wonders, especially if you have limited space, or you just want to decorate your home. Why mirrors? Because mirrors enhance light and reflection, they could help improve what your house looks like. Mirrors can also simulate depth for houses with small rooms. Put large-sized mirrors in your house for instance, use mirrors that span from the floor to the ceiling. Place them on both sides of your fireplace to make your fireplace room larger, which would also reflect objects around the room. Movable mirrors can be repositioned from time to time and can transform the view of the space. You could also use small mirrors which could be strategically placed to reflect on interesting objects. An area with aromatic candles could be given extra prominence if reflected on a mirror. Place mirrored screens to illuminate a dark corner. You do not have to put bulbs or lights in every part of your house, thanks to mirrors you can create subtle ambiance while cutting down on electric costs. Ceilings could also be enhanced with mirrors. Mirrors on the ceiling create a “skylight” effect. Room ceilings are not the only ceilings where you could put some mirrors on. Kitchen backsplash could also be mirrored. Even pantry or cabinet ceilings can have mirrors. Putting mirrors on these surfaces would enable you to see there contents much clearer. Putting some little plants or shrubs in places where mirrors could reflect on them. Reflections of greenery will give the room an uplifting and relaxing feel. Mirrors can also put personality into one’s room. The mirrors, for example, in the master’s bedroom could be formal; while mirrors in the children’s bedroom can be decorative and fun to look at. You could also put a large-sized decorative mirror on a wall with a painting adjacent to it. The mirror would reflect the paintings tones, and the wall’s additional darker color would immediately give the room its much-needed depth. In turn making the room appear wider. Decorative mirrors would not just help enhance your rooms decor. They would also reflect your personality, putting your personal lifestyle and taste into your room. All the while giving the illusion of width, length, and height. As you can see the possibilities for mirrors are endless and any of the fine companies who’s talents you see in these pictures are more than capable, able and willing.

Clockwise From Top Left: Diamond Guard Guardian’s Ultra Mirror is copper and scratch free. Harlingen Glass p.61 Nora Design Studio p.33, using ornate gold oblong mirrors to create linear illusion. This hand painted Trompe L’oeil mirror frame creates an elaborate design out of an otherwise simple frame. Sister, p.38 Multi tile contemporary decorative wall mirror is made up of numerous squares, placed together in a heavily antiqued silver frame with a light gray glaze. NIU p.49 Bayside Glass p.56 framed this custom vanity mirror with metallic pewter tiles. Fascinating geode inspired custom etched and sandblasted mirror. Glassica p.55

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Casa Remodel Your kitchen is probably the main room of your home, even more so then the living room or den. You would like to give it a face-lift or even a major overhaul, but how can you live without your kitchen for long? Here are a few do’s and don’ts that could save you time, money, and some relief from the stress of not having the center of your family life available. Do think out carefully what areas you want to improve and how your budget will handle the job. Even a sketched-out plan and a consultation with a designer is better than just jumping in with an “idea” of what you want. As you plan out what you want to do, you can start putting together a budget. Soon, you will start seeing a better picture of what can happen and what will stay on the planning table for now. Don’t be unprepared in this project. Know everything you can about the changes you are about to make and how you will make them. Do gather ideas if you are not sure of the details you want. Home improvement magazines, kitchen brochures, designer magazines can help. Visit home improvement stores and model homes. You will notice things you might not have thought of otherwise.

Kitchen Remodeling DO’S AND DON’TS

Don’t spread your budget too thin; the unexpected could happen and you will not be caught off-guard if you give yourself some working room. Do set a clear-cut budget and stick to it. Now that you have done a little research and have a better understanding of what you want and will be able to do, a budget must be set and followed; after all, you want to save time and money. Don’t measure just once, measure twice and make sure elements will fit correctly when ordering or buying. It can become very costly to get things wrong. Do decide how much you can do yourself and what will need the help of a professional. Can you do the painting and sanding, for example? Major jobs, such as lighting, plumbing and such, really should be in a professional’s hands. That needs to be figured into the budget as well. The little things can make a big difference in savings and a face-lift may be all that is needed as opposed to an overall remodel. Whatever you decide, make it your style, make it functional, and make it the room you, your family, and your friends will always gravitate towards.

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We surf the Internet. We swim in magazines. The Internet is exhilarating. Magazines are enveloping. The internet grabs you. Magazines embrace you. The Internet is impulsive. Magazines are immersive. And both media are growing. Barely noticed amidst the thunderous Internet clamor is the simple fact that magazine readership has risen over the past five years. Even in the age of the Internet, even among the groups one would assume are most singularly hooked on digital media, the appeal of magazines is growing. Think of it this way: during the 12-year life of Google, magazine readership actually increased 11 percent. What it proves, once again, is that a new medium doesn’t necessarily displace an existing one. Just as movies didn’t kill radio. Just as TV didn’t kill movies. An established medium can continue to flourish so long as it continues to offer a unique experience. And, as reader loyalty and growth demonstrate, magazines do. Which is why people aren’t giving up swimming, just because they also enjoy surfing

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