Southern Home Complimentary
JUne 2009
Magazine
Homes, Yards and Gardens of Lake Norman
Koi Ponds Your own Backyard Oasis
Window Treatments
Ornamental Herbs
Charleston Destinations
Framing the View
Pretty Enough to Eat
Special Summer Section June 2009 Southern Home June 2009 Southern Home
1 1
Recreating Recreating Homes. Homes. Redefining Redefining Lives. Lives.
Before Before Kitchen Kitchen Remodel Remodel
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Kitchen & Bath Renovations Kitchen & Bath Renovations Room Additions Room Additions Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces Attic & Bonus Room Finishing Attic & Bonus Room Finishing Sunrooms Sunrooms Basement Finishing & Renovation Basement Finishing & Renovation Media Rooms Media Rooms Custom Contracting Custom Contracting A Licensed General Contractor A Licensed General Contractor
Outdoor Spaces Outdoor Spaces
2
Residential Design/Build Design/Build Specialists Specialists Residential A Turn-Key Approach A Turn-Key Approach To Designing And To Designing And Remodeling Your Home. Remodeling Your Home.
Phone Us At: 704.307.4606 Phone Us At: 704.307.4606 Email :johnmorgan@ubgcharlotte.com Email :johnmorgan@ubgcharlotte.com Room Additions Room Additions
Southern Home NARI June 2009 ®
®
NARI NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE REMODELING INDUSTRY
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE REMODELING INDUSTRY
Custom Contracting Custom Contracting
m ww ww ww .. uu rr bb aa nn bb uu ii ll dd ii nn gg gg rr oo uu pp .. cc oo m
º
From our Backyard to Yours since 1995
LOVE YOUR ATTIC... IT’LL PAY YOU BACK!
Largest selection of plants in Lake Norman ! We pride ourselves on carrying a variety of interesting and unusual plant materials. Japanese Maples and conifers are some of our many specialties.
Full Service Landscaping Need some advice? One of our landscapers would be glad to visit your home to discuss ideas, make suggestions about plant varieties and placement, and provide a little inspiration!
Friendly and Knowledgeable sales staff
With ener With energy gy ccosts osts tak taking ing such a huge bit bite e out of the mon monthly thly budget, budget, energy efficiency iit’s t’s llittle ittle ssurprise urprise tthat hat iinsulation nsulation aand nd e nergy e fficiency aare re tthe he ttop op homeowners are cconsiderations onsiderations among homeo wners who ar e thinking thinking of remodeling. remodeling. help IICYNENE® CYNENE® insulates insulates aand nd air-seals air-seals yyour our aattic ttic sspace pace tto oh elp minimize minimize drafts HVAC operate more optimal d rafts aand nd aallow llow yyour our H VAC ssystem ystem tto oo perate iin nam ore o ptimal environment, monthly energy e nvironment, ssignificantly ignificantly rreducing educing yyour our m onthly e nergy ccosts. osts. And And Now homeowners qualify up tthe he ssavings avings don’t don’t stop stop tthere. here. N ow h omeowners can can q ualify ffor or u p to to a credit $1500 ffederal ederal tax cr edit due to to the new EEconomic conomic SStimulus timulus Package. Package.
That’s T hat’s up to a $1500 $1500 federal ta tax x credit that you you get to keep keep in your your pocket! pocket! Plus, significant savings savings in heating and cooling costs every ever y month just by by insulating your your attic yo at tic with ICYNENE® ICYNENE®
There's a little something special for everyone who visits us, so plan to spend some time exploring the lush gardens, stone paths, and soothing water features. When you visit, a friendly staff member will be glad to chat with you and help you find exactly what you're looking for.
Plus, Unique Gifts, Decor & so much more! Be sure to say, Hi to Myrtle! Open 7 Days a Week Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-5, Sun 1-5 13501 Old Statesville Road Huntersville, NC 28078 • 704-875-8234 fax 704-875-8694 email: dearness@charlotte.twcbc.com
www.dearnessgardens.com
SINCE 1970 FFor or e even ven more more rreasons easons tto o lo love ve yyour our aattic ttic give just giv e us a call call or visit our website. website.
704-332-1224 www.theaustincompany.com www .theaustincompany.com
Southern Home Magazine
Bethany Hauf
Clyde Owens
Lisa Nobles
Justine DiMauro Marta Carlson Kristi Linauer Clyde Owens Joe Kaestner
A
Lori Dalton
Dennis Rossello Marlene Ventura Kathy Bryan Wendy Valdivisio We welcome your comments, questions, article ideas, or any suggestions to make Southern Home Magazine even better. Write us at 20914 E. Catawba Ave. Cornelius NC 28031 or email to comments@southernhomemag.com To contact any associate you may email them directly by typing their first name@southernhomemag.com or call 704-777-0334 and speak with a live representative. This magazine is published by Southern Home Magazine LLC. and distributed twelve times a year to selected households in the Lake Norman area. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent by the publisher. Southern Home Magazine does not necessarily endorse the views or perceptions of contributors or advertisers. Southern Home Magazine has the right to refuse any content based on the publisher’s sole discretion. Our office is located at 20915 E. Catawba Ave. Cornelius NC 28031 Publisher Southern Home Magazine LLC
editor’s notes by Bethany Hauf
s I relaxed on my patio with my family around me, I realized how very fortunate we are to live in Lake Norman. Before we relocated from California a few years ago, I spent many hours researching to find the best place for my family to live. My husband and I have three young sons so schools, safety and quality of life were very important to us. After hundreds of hours researching towns from the West Coast to the East Coast, we found our home in Cornelius. The community has embraced us as if we have lived here our whole lives. My boys are thriving, healthy and happy and we could not ask for more than that. I always get a chuckle when a native resident of Cornelius says with surprise “Why Cornelius?” I tell them they don’t know how lucky there are!
This month I am proud to showcase our Home Away From Home segment. There are so many wonderful vacation spots throughout the region. As partial to Lake Norman as I am, I also want to bring to you inspiration from other near-by cities and towns that you can go and visit yourselves.
This month our staff writer, Justine, and I visited Charleston, SC. What an amazing city it is, I cannot wait to go back again! We had a fun filled two days exploring Charleston. I’ll have to remember to bring more comfortable shoes next time for my feet started to hurt from all the exploring we did. It’s a tough job but someone had to do it. If you know of a vacation hot spot that would be of interest to the readers of Southern Home Magazine drop me an email. As always, I welcome your questions, comments, and sugIn this and forward issues, I gestions. look forward to sharing with you the jewels of Lake Norman; Happy Spring, the beautiful gardens, historic homes and the families who Bethany Hauf tend to their properties with Editor loving care.
Southern Home Magazine
JUNE 2009
Charleston
6
weekend getaway
q&a
6
10
the right shade of yellow
koi ponds
12
12
your own backyard oasis
the summer heat
14
getting your house ready
ornamental vegtables
18
pretty enough to eat
squirrels
20
friend or foe?
lemon desserts
22
24
18
soothing summer treats
rethinking draperies
24
framing the view June 2009 Southern Home
5
Charleston weekend getaway by Justine DiMauro Magazine, along with the editor, Bethany Hauf, we had the privilege to experience downtown Charleston and share our stay with our readers.
Charleston, SC is a great vacation destination. An easy three and a half hour drive from Lake Norman takes you back in time where you can visit the country’s oldest museum and see hundreds of examples of eighteenth and nineteenth century architecture that embodies Charleston. Although Charleston is a great weekend getaway, with so much to do, you will want to plan on making several visits.
We arrived at the Ansonborough Inn, located at 21 Hasell Street in Historic Charleston on Tuesday afternoon. After checking in, Bethany and I got busy relaxing. Bethany visited the Earthling Day Spa, just a short walk from the Inn. She was surprised at how large and well designed the spa was. She reports having an amazing massage and would definitely recommend their services.
Meanwhile, I was relaxing in my own way. I went on a mission to explore the Inn. In the Hospitality Suite I poured myself a glass of delicious lemonade and sat down to unwind. I was instantly absorbed in the lovely ambiance of the room, viewAs a staff writer of Southern Home ing the oil paintings and beautiful 6
Southern Home June 2009
furniture, some original pieces and others were reproductions. The Hospitality Suite offers a deluxe, complimentary breakfast every morning from 7-10 a.m., as well as a complimentary, daily newspaper. Each afternoon from 5-6 p.m. is a wine and cheese social, featuring the Inn’s own home-made pimento cheese dip, which is delicious! They also serve coffee, iced tea and lemonade throughout the day. After a second glass of lemonade, I managed to pull my self away to con-
tinue exploring. The next place to see was The Admiral Anson Pub, an authentic British pub. According to history, Lord Anson of England won the extensive property in a spirited
poker game with a famous Charlestonian, Thomas Gadsden. The Ansonborough district stretches from King Street to the edge of the Cooper River, between Society and Calhoun streets. These farmlands were divided into a borough of 25 lots in 1746. Next was the Business Center, replete with two computers, a f a x m a chine and a printer. Before going back to my suite, I took a walk up to the rooftop terrace. Although just three stories high, you can view the surrounding city from a new perspective. Development/Background Originally a three-story stationer’s warehouse (circa 1901), the build-
ing was later designed for individual condominium units. As a result, the Inn’s suites are larger than most hotel rooms. They range from 450 to 750 square feet, which is unlike the typical 288 sq. ft. hotel room. The Inn was completely remodeled in 1999 by owners George & Sandra Fennell. In keeping with the nautical heritage of Admiral George Anson, the Fennell’s have overseen the transformation of the Inn into one of the Historic District’s truly unique properties. One cannot help but notice their attention to detail - handsome historic antiques and reproductions and a vast collection of original oil paintings throughout the guest suites and common areas. It’s no surprise the Inn received the Charleston Chamber of Commerce’s Enhancement Award for three blocks from the Inn to McCardy’s Restaurant for dinner. property beautification. There are also trolleys that run up Our first night we drove a mere continued page 10
18th century nautical charm located in the historic district of downtown Charleston
Located within The Historic District of Downtown Charleston near the Market Area. You can walk to the finest restaurants shopping & entertainment The Holy City has to offer. Lovingly restored and charming with loft studios to executive premium suites. Deluxe Complimentary Breakfast • Afternoon Wine and Cheese social • Coffee, Iced Tea and Lemonade Business Conference and Group Meeting Facilities
21 Hasell St Charleston, SC 29401 • 1-800-522-2073 • www.ansonboroughinn.com June 2009 Southern Home 7
Presidential Style Enjoy majestic views of historic Charleston aboard Innisfail, while experiencing the splendor formerly reserved for presidents, royalty, world leaders and celebrities. This magnificent piece of American history built in 1939 has been impeccably restored to her original glory as a private luxury vessel and floating work of art. Spacious interiors feature polished teak, brass and museum quality furniture and art from the 1920’s and 30’s. Treasure the moments of your next corporate meeting, reception or party as you dine under the stars aboard the most elegant and historic vessel in the Southeast. Available for all your event needs. Treat up to seventy passengers to an intimate dinner and unforgettable Harbor adventure. Call today for opportunities to schedule your special event.
Nobody knows the Charleston Coast better.®
dunes properties
®
Real estate, vacation rentals and property management
The latest concept in real estate. “The Real Estate Studio is a comfortable, no pressure setting, designed to introduce visitors to Charleston’s real estate market and the Lowcountry Lifestyle. The Studio offers a full range of services including a concierge to assist visitors with everything from dinner reservations to golf tee times. With free wi-fi, complimentary beverages, and accessible computer stations, it is less “office” and more retail store with just a touch of internet café; a truly inviting environment using the most advanced technology to show our guests all of Charleston’s real estate in a matter of minutes.”
(800) 476-8444 • www.dunesproperties.com
continued from page 6
and down the street and rickshaws are another option - fun and convenient.
mission is to preserve and interpret the cultural and natural history of Charleston and the South Carolina Low Country. We then toured one of the Museum’s two National Landmark Houses, The Joseph Manigault House circa 1803. Through the architecture and narrative guide, the tour reflects the lifestyle of both a wealthy rice-planting family and the slaves who also lived there. The more current history was also quite interesting.
Built in 1778, McCrady’s at 2 Unity Alley boasts about having once served dinner to George Washington. Fine-dining prevails, and has wonderful uniquely prepared dishes. Waiters were in attendance to explain how the foods are prepared and to answer any questions and the ambiance was truly beautiful. After the museum we had lunch at The Buccaneer Restaurant, 5 Faber After a wonderful nights sleep on Street, which is a locally owned, the most comfortable bed, we en- family-friendly restaurant close to joyed a leisurely breakfast in the Market Street. The restaurant is Hospitality Suite before we played home to one of the largest collectourists. Founded in 1773, The tions of authentic pirate artifacts in Charleston Museum is the first mu- the U.S.; although, the She Crab seum in the United States and was Soup and Shrimp and Grits were a totally worthwhile experience. Its the stars of the show. After lunch we took a walk down Market Street and arranged to take a horse-drawn carriage tour. We were informed that each day the tour routes change for every company so this is something you can do again and again. We highly recommend taking one of these tours to hear about the history of Charleston. To give but a few examples, we learned that in 1670, the first English settlers arrived and ulti10
Southern Home June 2009
mately named Charles Towne for King Charles II and later, in 1783, when the city became incorporated, they adopted a new, shortened name, Charleston. In 1830, the railroad came through North Charleston leading to a boom for that area. In 1861, Confederate Soldiers fired on Union troops at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, thus signaling the start of the devastating war between the States. In 1886, The Great Earthquake struck Charleston, taking 110 lives and leaving thousands homeless. In 1904, the U.S. Naval Yard opened in North Charleston. Land values soared, infrastructure plans were made and roads were built. Eightynine years later, in July of 1993, the naval base and shipyard, Charleston’s largest single employer, closed, bringing an end to a century of military dominance of the area’s economy. It’s also interesting to learn of current real estate and fun to hear tidbits of local gossip! On our last evening, we had a late dinner at Social Wine Bar & Restaurant at 188 East Bay Street in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. The diverse menu includes tapas, gourmet wood-fired pizzas and house-made desserts. The décor is modern and seems to cater to a younger crowd with techno type music and streamline furnishings. The food was really good. With a group of friends, this would be a fun place, especially late at night when the wines flow and the spirits rise! Our trip seemed to come to an end too soon. There is so much more to see and do. Fortunately, Charleston is not too far away and reasonably priced so we will definitely be back for more!
&
Citrus by Behr
Banana Split by Behr
Decorating questions with Kristi
What is the right shade of yellow for my walls? Question: I painted my living room a color called Citrus (Behr paint) and I hate it. It looks like a highlighter. I want a warmer yellow color but am having a difficult time choosing a shade. Can you help me choose a popular shade that will work? -Gina Denver, NC
Answer: It has been my personal experience that yellows are difficult to choose, as they always appear more intense once the color is on the walls. This particular color, Citrus, is quite intense and it also has a good deal of orange in it, which may be why you don't like it. If you liked that
color on the paint swatch, it might help to simply choose a yellow on the same paint strip that's a few shades lighter. For example, you could use Banana Split, which is two shades lighter than Citrus, or Morning Sunlight, which is three shades lighter than Citrus. However, if you would like to go with a yellow that still has the same depth of color (in other words, not a lighter yellow), then I would suggest a color like Chilled Lemonade. This color will give you the same depth of color, but because it is a truer yellow without the orange, it will be much easier on the eyes.
Morning Sunlight by Behr
Chilled Lemonade by Behr
*Please note: Colors in print may not be true representations of paint colors. To see the true color, please use actual Behr paint strips. Happy decorating,
Kristi Email your decorating questions to: comments@ southernhomemag.com June 2009 Southern Home
11
Photo: Pondscapes of Charlotte
koi ponds & water features
by Clyde Owens
T
he sound of a babbling brook, the relaxed saunter of koi fish and the beauty of water lilies catching the summer sun are all part of the zen enjoyment of koi ponds. Water features are summer projects that can be as simple as a small, pre-made bubbling fountain to large-scale projects requiring earth movers and boulders. The Grogans of Davidson, NC went for the dramatic. With a sloping lot, they had grade challenges to consider. After seeing Pondscapes at the Southern Home Show, they found a partner for their project. Their landscape architect and Dave Blocksom, of “Pondscapes of Charlotte“, came up with a plan to in12 Southern Home June 2009
stall a retaining wall, creating a raised grade around the house. This was the canvas for the beautiful water project. It starts with a bog pond to naturally filter the water which streams around the patio and widens to a pond outside the screened porch (see photos right) before taking a dramatic fall down the slope to another lush pond on the lower grade. It was by luck that Tom Grogan saw a construction crew hauling away boulders from a nearby development to a landfill. He salvaged them for his retaining wall and pond construction, saving thousands in the process. Paula Grogan
loves the touches that Dave installed. “He added several weathered logs from the woods just behind the house.” These added a natural dimension, and the local ferns and moss have created an exceptional realism, making it look like it has been there for years. “We wouldn’t change a thing,” remarks Mrs. Grogan. What to consider Location: Ponds must be located were rain water (and lawn chemicals) will not drain into them and should receive a minimum of 4
hours of sun a day. Place a pond were you can enjoy it, close to a patio, not at the back of your yard! This will maximize the views from both inside and out. Tip: The soil you excavate can be used for berms building up a side of the pond allowing for a waterfall feature. Size: Bigger is better. It’s actually easier to control algae and create a naturally balanced pond by making them larger, about 12 x 14’ or more. Pond owners rarely say “I wish I had made it smaller.” Try to go as large as you can in the begining. It’s surprising how adding rocks, plants and water features quickly fill in the pond. For stocking ponds with fish, you’ll need to have it at least 18” deep. Materials: You need a heavy plastic liner, filter and pump system for the mechanics of the pond. Consider where your source of electricity will
be and how you’ll get it to the pump system. Lighting is also a fantastic feature. You’ll also need a resource for your large stones, water plants and fish. Under the liner, you’ll need sand to soften the contact with the ground and prevent punctures. Installing a pond is an enjoyable project but requires a lot of details. Before starting be sure to get a full plan by researching books, magazines or the internet and detailing all your features before you begin. Plus, there are many professional installers in the area who can do the job for you, so you sit can back and enjoy. Alternatives: If a larger pond just seems too much, you can consider some alternative ideas. Local home supply centers have pre-fab hard plastic pond shapes and mini-filter systems that can be used to create smaller ponds. The scale of these projects usually will be a 1 or 2 person job on a weekend and most all supplies can be
The Grogans love their pond installed by Pondscapes of Charlotte
purchased at one location. Another idea is to install a fountain only system. You can get the sound of the water without the concern of tending to fish or water plants. You can install a water garden which contains only plants, like a half whiskey barrel patio garden.
Water features can be a wonderful focal point to any garden. It brings in a soothing oasis for contemplation-a little piece of paradise in your own backyard. June 2009 Southern Home
13
get your house ready for By Pete Villari, President Energy Doctors of the Carolinas
the summer heat!
We always seem to beat the drum to winterize our home, but what about preparing for the heat of summer? In the last issue we talked about inexpensive ways to air seal your home; those will help home energy efficiency in both winter and summer. But summer has its own challenges. I know I got tired of getting a blast of hot air every time I walked into the upstairs bonus room! Here are just a few suggestions. Some can cost a little, but they can be worth the investment. AC Check up: Have your AC checked by a professional. An efficient system will cool better, cycle less often and save you money. If you need a replacement, make sure you select an Energy Star rated unit. Get Your Ducts in a Row: Over time, ducts can get dirty and restrict air flow, plus they may be leaking cool air into the attic or crawl space or in need of insulation. Hot or leaking air ducts make systems run longer in order to cool your living space. Attic Check up: The attic is often the front line of the battle. Up to 30% of your conditioned air escapes into the attic where temperatures can reach 150째 plus. Check your insulation to ensure you have at least R-30 rating and consider going beyond the minimum and seal the entire attic. Also consider putting less stress on your systems by installing a powered attic
vent to suck the hot air out of your attic. Install Window Shading: Lower your cooling bill by up to 10% by shading the windows exposed to the summer sun. Patio covers, awnings, lined drapes, solar shades or window filming are all options. Plant a Tree: Well placed shade trees can also block the sun, from exposed windows. They will keep your home cooler while being environmentally friendly and adding natural beauty. Studies have shown a decrease of 3째to 6째 in tree shaded areas. Programmable Thermostats You can save up to 10% a year without sacrificing comfort by adjusting when the unit runs to your schedule. Programmable thermonstatsare relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Free: We tend to forget the simple things. Keep things cool by turning off lights and exhaust fans. Run appliances less often by only running full loads. Finally, be sure to keep the garage door and fireplace dampers closed. For more energy-saving tips, visit the Department of Energy at www.energy.gov or email requests to comments@southernhomemag.com.
Is money escaping your home?
* * *
save money be more comfortable save energy
Using Thermal Imaging equipment, we see what normally can’t be seen. We find air leaks, insulation issues and other energy related problems; And since we don’t sell products, we make unbiased recommendations.
Audits start as low as $150 … PLUS a free follow-up audit if you respond to this ad For more information visit us at www.ENERGYDOCTORS.org or call us at 704-464-4470 to set up an appointment Energy Audits & Thermal Imaging Services for Home and Business
How Refreshing is This? • We arrive on time! • Our pricing is clear and agreed upon! •Our work exceeds your expectations! AND – It’s all GUARANTEED. You pay when you are satisfied with the results!
$50 off any job over $200
Expires 8/31/09. Cannot be combined with any other offer. For labor only.
704.896.6379 • Wood Rot • Roofing Repairs • Ceiling Fans • Drywall Repair
• Decks • Custom Bookcases • Honey-Do Lists • Much, Much More!
info@hands4hire.com • www.hands4hire.com Licensed & insured. All employees background checked.
Only 5% of companies on Angie’s List receive the Super Service Award.
Family Style Seafood at its Best! • Specializing in Broiled and Fried... Seafood, Chicken, and USDA Steaks • Great lunch menu at prices you will love • Daily Specials
Two locations in the Lake Norman Area Huntersville since 1990 105-J Statesville Road 704.875.6038
Mooresville since 1998 659 E. Plaza Drive 704.662.6100
M-F 11am-9pm, Fri 11am-9:30pm Sat 12pm-9:30pm, Sun 11:30am-8pm
M-F 11am-8:30pm, Fri 11am-9:30pm Sat 3pm-9:30pm, Sun Closed
Hip
Historic
>OXN >Z\ S XQ
Davidson serving up endless possibilities...
-S \ ^ R NK c ] x 9O a -K L c x ,X XS ` O \ ] K \ c x 3Y V S NK c ] x BO N NS X Q ] .Y \ ZY \ K ^ O 2S P ^ ] x 2O ^ BO V V x > cWZK ^ R c x 1_ X O \ K V
'K N VD Q $@Q S K H W
@XS [ _ O 1V Y \ K V ] 2S P ^ ] P Y \ 0` O \ c :M M K ] S Y X
V S ` O \ S X Q ^ Y .Y \ X O V S _ ] /K ` S N] Y X /O 3_ X ^ O \ ] ` S V V O 8Y Y \ O ] ` S V V O
Since 1951 Soups, Salads, Sandwiches, Sodas, Smoothies, Sundaes & Shakes, Fresh Squeezed Juices, Crispy Green Beans and Sweet Potato Fries, Black Angus Burgers and Hot Dogs Breakfast Daily until 11:30 AM
104 South Main St • Davidson, NC 28036 704.896.7743 • www.DavidsonSodaShop.com
Southern Home
The Needlecraft Center Davidson www.needlecraftcenter.com
Excellent food, exceptional service and a comfortable, inviting atmosphere for all to enjoy. Breakfast • Brunch • Lunch • Dinner • Daily Specials 101 N. Main Street • Davidson, NC 28036 (704) 655-2778 • www.toastcafeonline.com
Magazine
Homes, Yards and Gardens of Lake Norman
Reach more customers! Targeted to an audience of 20,000 home owners of the Lake Norman area 704.777.0334 www.southernhomemag.com
Located in the heart of the Davidson Main Street Arts District, South Main Square includes inspired space to live, work, shop and dine. Easily accessible from I-77, South Main Square offers inspired, flexible space for businesses to grow and thrive in Lake Norman. It is also within walking distance to the Historic Main Street village and town green, as well as Davidson College.
www.southmainsquare.com
Lofts. Condos. Offices. Retail. in the South Main Arts District 400 Block S. Main St Hwy 115 Davidson 704.896.0094
by Marta Carlson
pretty enough to eat Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits and Berries with Ornamental Landscape Value
W
hen many people first consider using edible plants in the landscape, they are put off by visions of an orchard or farm-like rows of plants that consume most of the property. Yet fruits, berries, vegetables and herbs don’t necessarily require large expanses to grow. There are dwarf varieties that require minimal space, and more importantly, there are many edible plants that can add aesthetic beauty to our landscapes.
flower color, overall shape, growing habit, etc. Then combine them with ornamental varieties to achieve the effect you desire. Just keep in mind that most herbs, vegetables and fruits need full sun. On the positive side, many require little maintenance, and once established, irrigation often is not necessary.
Incorporate blueberries, rosemary and fig trees as hedges and screening shrubs at your home’s foundation, in natural areas or on the property line. Blueberry One key to successfully integrating bushes are vigorous growers, usually edible plants is to look at them just as untroubled by disease or insects, and you would any other plant, and consider require little pruning. They are particular 18
Southern Home June 2009
about pH, requiring acidic soils, which our local soils naturally have. Blueberries are deciduous and will lose their leaves in winter, but they offer beautiful red fall foliage and waxy white blooms that dangle from branches like tiny bells in the spring. Mingle blueberries with azaleas or in groupings as a hedge to screen unattractive obstacles. Rosemary is a tender evergreen shrub with gray-green needlelike leaves and pale lavender-blue summer flowers. Both flowers and foliage are aromatic, and its piney flavor is fantastic on grilled or roasted poultry and meats as well as vegetables. It will grow 3 to 4 feet tall and wide, requires minimal pruning, is not prone to insects or disease and does well in dry soil. Rosemary makes an excellent foundation hedge
and grows well in containers. If you need a larger plant to fill a corner, as a property screen or as shade for the children’s play area, plant a fig tree. Figs have beautiful silvery bark and dramatic lobed foliage with spreading branches and a wide crown. Although deciduous, a fig’s stout trunk and thick branches take on a gnarled look with an attractive framework. Plant figs in well-drained soil, and they are moderately drought tolerant. While pruning is not necessary, it may be needed to keep them in check, as they are disease-free with few pest problems. Vining fruits and vegetable can be used to cover landscape structures like arbors, pergolas and fences. Our climate is actually ideal for growing fuzzy, brown-skinned kiwis. Even though they are deciduous and require a heavy pruning at least once a year, they add great interest to the garden with their ornamental foliage. They too require well-drained soil and are generally untroubled by disease and pests. Purchase a self-pollinated cultivar, or a male and female plant will be needed to produce fruit. Grape vines make excellent ornamental plants with fast-growing canes that cover arbors, trellises or fences. In the spring, they produce clusters of fragrant greenish flowers followed in the summer by large leaves that shift gracefully in the breeze. They need a well-amended soil or can be grown in large containers. Although they require some complicated pruning and are prone to disease and insects, the fall harvest is so rewarding. Try getting creative with beans and cucumbers, either planting along a fence for a summer screen or against a trellis for a vertical addition. Both require well-drained soil and some support. They can be grown from seed and will need to be watered. Select disease-resistant cultivars and
winter. There a several sage varieties with multicolor foliage that make eyecatching additions to any shrubbery bed. All of these herbs require welldrained soil, are fairly drought-resistant and have few pest problems. For a fruit-bearing groundcover, strawberries do well. Use their attractive leafy foliage as fillers of empty spaces or as an alternative to ornamental grasses. Strawberries are tops among fruit crops for ease of growing. They need wellamended soils and irrigation during the growing season but have minimal pest and disease problems. Add some vertical vegetable foliage for summer fillers in perennial beds and after other plants have gone dorwatch for pests. mant. Larger, leafy greens, such as Swiss chard, bok choy, spinach, lettuce, To minimize lawn maintenance, use horseradish and beets, add texture as groundcovers. Try herbs such as thyme, well as color. They are a nice addition parsley and sage. Creeping thyme is a to flower beds as well. low groundcover with fuzzy gray leaves and pink pale flowers. It’s nice to use Enjoy the aesthetic benefits as well as between stepping stones as it is soft the edibles aspects of these plants. to the foot and fragrant when touched. The local N.C. Cooperative Extension Curly leaf parsley adds ornamental fo- office can provide additional growing liage to pansy beds in the fall and tips and is a great source of information evergreen foliage to bare areas in the for all aspects of your landscape.
Friend or Foe? Backyard Nature By Joe Kaestner, Owner Wild Birds Unlimited of Huntersville
cheaper food somewhere else in your yard. and with great dexterity. Unlike our backyard birds, squirrels have a keen sense of smell and taste. Squirrels have great strength and gripping power in their back feet and legs. And, finally, squirrels can chew through almost anything and do so, on a regular basis.
The second approach is to hang your feeders from a pole that has a baffle to prevent squirrels from climbing the pole. You will need to position the pole in an open area, free from jumping opportunities, such as tree branches, deck railings, bird baths, swing sets and lawn furniture for at least ten feet in all directions.
To many of us, they are cute, furry, woodland creatures who bring joy and entertainment to our backyards; to the rest of us, they are annoying “tree rats”. Nevertheless, squirrels are here to stay and it’s up to us to figure out how to deal with them. On the surface this shouldn’t be a difficult situation, after all, we are all blessed with far greater intelligence and creativity. However, what our little, furry friends lack in brain power, they more than make up for with perseverance and courage.
The third possibility is to feed the birds food that the squirrels won’t like. You can use foods that taste bad to the squirrels but look good to birds. Some examples are safflower seeds, which are bitter tasting, or suet that has had hot chili peppers mixed into it.
For those of us who enjoy feeding birds in our backyards, squirrels present a difficult, but not insurmountable, challenge. Before we consider how to meet this challenge, let’s look at a few facts about squirrels. Squirrels can easily jump straight up in the air about four feet. They can jump horizontally about ten feet (more if given a height advantage). Jumping from one place to another is standard, operating procedure for squirrels. They do this without fear
20
Southern Home June 2009
There are three ways to keep squirrels from eating your bird food. First, you can use a squirrel-proof feeder. Most of your backyard birds weigh somewhere between a half ounce and two ounces. Squirrels weigh from one to two pounds. A good squirrel-proof feeder will allow birds to eat freely, but will close down when a squirrel gets on the feeder.
When dealing with the squirrel challenge, there are two basic rules to follow: 1. Make it difficult (or impossible) for squirrels to eat the bird food 2. Make it easy for squirrels to get
Once you have established a method for feeding your birds that will exclude the squirrels, you should consider feeding the squirrels something they can readily access. There are many feeders built specifically for feeding squirrels. Some are designed for whole peanuts, others for ears of corn. By placing the squirrel food thirty to forty feet away from your bird feeders, you can keep the squirrels from even trying to get to the bird food. You will have to consistently
provide food for the squirrels or they will go back to trying to get to the bird food. Even if the bird food is inaccessible, the squirrels’ actions may be disruptive enough to frighten away your birds for a while. When dealing with squirrels, the best we can truly hope for is to reach a balance where all of our backyard friends are getting what they need.
Your Personal Jeweler Michael Malyszko
Trusted by LKN for 15 years • Jeweler Owned, 35 years experience • Expert Repairs - All on Premises • 14kt, 18kt And Platinum Fine Jewelry • Custom Designs, Computer Designs • G.I.A. and E.G.L. Certified Diamonds • Unique one-of-a-kind jewelry Ask your friends and they WILL recommend Your Personal Jeweler
704-892-7343 20035 Jetton Rd, Ste A, Cornelius Across the parking lot from McAlister’s Deli
www.personaljeweleroflkn.com
We’ve Built An Impressive History By Giving Our Patients A Brighter Future Offering Life-Changing Spine And Brain Expertise In Huntersville Our neurosurgeons are renowned pioneers who have developed and implemented groundbreaking treatments for spine and brain disorders since 1940. Patients from across the country seek our expertise. Fortunately, you only have to come to our new Huntersville office at exit 23.
At our new, larger office you’ll find: s Experienced neurosurgical care s Interventional physical medicine s On-site physical therapy s On-site imaging s WWW CNSA COM s On-site fluoroscopy suite s Golf and sports rehabilitation New Huntersville Address: 9735 Kincey Avenue, Suite 301
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 704-831-4100.
summer soothing
lemon desserts Frozen Lemon Pie • • • •
1 tblsp water • 3 eggs 1 grated lemon rind • 1 cup sugar 1 cup graham crackers • 2 lemons 1 lg can chilled evaporated milk
Lemon Meringue Pie • 2 eggs separated • 2 tblsps sugar • 1/2 cup lemon juice • 1/2 tsp lemon extract or graded rind from 1 lemon • 1-1/2 cups sweetened condensed milk
Beat egg yolks. Add to sugar and water. Melt on low heat. Cook a few minutes, stirring constantly. Add juice from lemons and rind from one. Cool. Fold in beaten egg whites and whipped milk. Line glass dish with crumbled crackers. Pour in lemon mixture and sprinkle remaining graham crackers on top and freeze.
Blend condensed milk, lemon juice, grated rind or lemon extract and egg yolks. Pour into baked pie shell. Cover with meringue made by beating 2 egg whites until stiff and adding 2 tblsps sugar. Bake in 350o oven 10 minutes or until meringue is slightly brown. Serve hot or chilled.
Cool Lemon Torte
Lemon Cheesecake
• • • •
1/4 cup soft shortening • 1 egg-whole 2 tbsps water • 1 cup flaked coconut 1 lemon pie filling mix • maraschino cherries 1package yellow cake mix
Mix 1/4 cup soft shortening, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons water, and 1 cup flaked coconut with 1 package yellow cake mix. mix well. Grease hands lightly and pat dough into greased 13 x 9 pan or baking dish. Bake 15-20 minutes in a 350o oven until golden brown. Crust will be soft when done. Prepare lemon pie filling mix as direct on package. Pour over cooked crust. Chill, spread whipped cream over filling. Top with maraschino cherries if desired. Cut in squares for serving.
• 1-8oz pkg cream cheese • 2 cups whole milk • 1 pkg Jello lemon instant pudding • 1-8” graham or vanilla wafer crumb crust Stir cream cheese until very soft. Blend in 1/2 milk until smooth and creamy. Add remaining milk and the pudding mix. Beat slowly with an egg beater 1 minute. Do not overbeat. Pour into cooled graham cracker crust. Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top. Chill in refrigerator 1 hour before serving.
Paradise Gardens Landscape, llc Design * Install * Maintain
Your complete outdoor living space Pruning • Mulching • Pine Needles • Fertilizing Turf Management and Mowing • Perennial and Annual Flower Gardens “Four Season Pruning Schedule” 704-477-3548 • www.paradisegardenslandscapes.com Owner Marta Carlson has over 20 years of experience in the horticulture industry. Can design and install traditional to tropical landscape incorporating all outdoor living aspects Qualifications:Landscape Designer, NC Landscape Contractor, #1459, NC Certified Plant Professional, NC Licensed Pesticide Applicator, Master Gardner, Horticulture Degree Memberships: Southeastern Palm Society, Denver Area Business Association
Southern Home Magazine is holding it’s first annual photography contest. Participation is limited to residents of the Lake Norman area. To be considered, photographs must have either a home, yard or garden connection. Subject matter must have taken place in the Lake Norman area. Entries should be titled along with a brief description of the subject. Entries must be submitted electronically to photos@southernhomemag.com Wining photographs will be published and awarded by Southern Home Magazine. All entries must be in by Aug. 12, 2009.
www.carolinasluxury.com www .carolinasluxury.com
realty
Where Luxury Comes Home. June 2009 Southern Home
23
rethinking draperies A
s an interior decorator, I have the opportunity to see the interior of many homes each year. I’ve seen all kinds, from humble starter homes belonging to newlyweds on very tight budgets to large dream homes built by owners of very successful companies. It seems so many of these homeowners have something in common; the lack of importance placed on window treatments.
I’m always amazed when homeowners overlook the importance of window treatments. As I tell my own clients, whether you’re decorating a family room, a bedroom or a dining room, generally, no other single element will make the room 24
Southern Home June 2009
framing the view
by Kristi Linauer
feel complete and give it that highend look like well-made window treatments Why are window treatments so often overlooked? While you may expect the high cost of custom window treatments is the leading reason for the lack of draperies in most homes, interestingly, there is one other explanation that is given to me on a very consistent basis. The number one reason homeowners give me for not wanting window treatments is that they don’t want to block the view from their windows. I’ve been in so many homes where almost an entire wall in a room is comprised of windows but without a stitch of fabric in sight. The homeowners exclaim, “But we don’t want to cover our windows! We love the view and the sunlight, and we don’t want anything getting in the way.”
Well, there is certainly no rule that says window treatments have to completely cover a window. In fact, I generally find myself designing window treatments in such a way so they cover as little of the window as possible.
photos of the sunset over the ocean. After carefully reviewing your photos and selecting your favorite one, you have it enlarged with the intention of displaying your prized photo in your home.
Would you then take your beautiful photo, slap some double-stick tape on back, and simply stick it to your wall? Absolutely not! Such a photo deserves much more attention and care. More than likely, you would take the photo to a frame shop and have the professionals at the shop So, then, why are window treat- help you select the perfect mat and ments so important? Here’s my frame to enhance the beauty of your perspective. Let’s pretend for a mo- amazing photograph. ment that you’ve just gotten back from a vacation in Hawaii, where Window treatments should be you have taken the most beautiful thought of in much the same way.
Rather than thinking of draperies as something to hinder your view or block the sunlight, think of them as the perfect frame around your beautiful scenery. Just as with a prized photo, your outdoor views
through your windows will be enjoyed all the more once you’ve selected the perfect window treatments to frame your view. You find more about Kristi’s decorating ideas at www.addicted 2decorating.com
June 2009 Southern Home
25
A brilliant smile is the ultimate embodiment of health, beauty and vitality! Confi-DentsTM offers you safe and effective cosmetic teeth whitening in only 20 minutes, comparable to similar treatments performed in a dentist's office. Confi-DentsTM is not a medical or dental procedure, and is a safe FDA approved product. Get immediate results — a smile that can be 2 to 10 shades whiter than before!
While treatments at a dentist office may cost $400 to over $1000, Confi-DentsTM teeth whitening service costs only $
149
Give us a call at 704-896-7546 20915 East Catawba • Cornelius, NC 28031
Upscale Resale! Furniture Consignments
• New & Gently Used Furniture • Showroom Samples • • Closeouts • Rugs • Home Décor & More •
“ F u ll o f S u r p r i s es ”
B ro w n l e e J e w e l e r s www.upscalemooresville.com 704.799.0077 • Consignors Welcome • Tu-F 10-7 Sat 10-6 235-6 Rolling Hill Rd • Mooresville, NC 28117
NorthCross • 9763 -B Sam Furr Road • Exit 25 Huntesrville, North Carolina 28078 • 704-895-1308
Southern Home Magazine
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID COLUMBIA, SC PERMIT # 487
Reach more customers! Targeted to an audience of 20,000 home owners of the Lake Norman area 704.777.0334
DEFY AGE! NO Knives! NO Needles! NO Downtime!
Non-Surgical Face Lift Take off 10 years in 10 weeks. Amazing results don’t have to hurt or cost a small fortune!
Advanced Skin Care • Anti-aging Facials • Microdermabrasion • Chemical Peels • Ultrasonic Therapy • Photo Rejuvenation
Get an Island Tan at a Lake location! Spray-on Tanning Safe, long lasting, natural looking, hand sprayed by our experienced technician. Leaves skin looking naturally tan, smooth, and healthy, without the sun. $27.00 For more information or to make an appointment call
704.896.7546 Located in the historic Kelly House 20915 East Catawba Avenue, Cornelius, NC
www.carolinabodyworks.com