Before
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CONTENT
NOVEMBER 2019–JANUARY 2020
VOL. 12
publisher Towns & Associates, Inc. PO Box 174, Baraboo, WI 53913-0174 p 608.356.8757 • f 608.356.8875 homeelementsandconcepts.com editor-in-chief Amy S. Johnson info@homeelementsandconcepts.com publication designer Jennifer Denman Photograph by Eric Tadsen
senior copy editor Kyle Jacobson copy editor Krystle Naab
Photograph provided by Dream House Dream Kitchens
BUSINESS DESIGN
sales & marketing director Amy S. Johnson ajohnson@homeelementsandconcepts.com
Hilton Madison Monona Terrace— A Reflection of Wisconsin Culture 30
design team Crea Stellmacher, Linda Walker, Barbara Wilson
COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
administration Cathy Bacon, Debora Knutson
Northside Planning Council— Fostering a Stronger Northside Community
contributing writers Lisa Briggs, Cabinet City, Amanda Dix, Kyle Jacobson, Lauri Lee, MGE, Orange Tree Imports, Pieces Unimagined, Julio Rios photographs Chris Brockel, Dream House Dream Kitchens, Brendon Krueger, MGE, Molly Mo Photography, Orange Tree Imports, ORG Home, Pieces Unimagined, Katy Plantenberg/Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Linda Snyder, Eric Tadsen, UW Credit Union, Barbara Wilson additional copies Home Elements & Concepts is available free at over 150 locations. If you would like a copy sent to you, please send mailing information and $4 (payable to Towns & Associates) for each magazine to Home Elements & Concepts, c/o Towns & Associates, Inc., PO Box 174, Baraboo, WI 53913-0174. subscriptions To purchase an annual subscription (4 issues), send mailing information and $16 (payable to Towns & Associates) to Home Elements & Concepts, c/o Towns & Associates, Inc., PO Box 174, Baraboo, WI 53913-0174. Or sign up for a FREE online subscription at homeelementsandconcepts.com. comments We welcome your questions and comments. Please submit to Home Elements & Concepts, c/o Towns & Associates, Inc., PO Box 174, Baraboo, WI 53913-0174 or email info@homeelementsandconcepts.com. advertise To place an advertisement, please call 608.356.8757 or email ajohnson@homeelementsandconcepts.com. all rights reserved. ©2019 No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written permission by the publisher, Towns & Associates, Inc.
Watch for the next issue February 2020. Cover photograph by Molly Mo Photography of a remodel by Washa Remodeling & Design.
a hotel remodel to create spaces guests will make a point to seek out
40
how a Madison nonprofit has been improving the Northside community since 1993
FINANCIAL
Dispelling First-Time Homebuying Myths myths that stress out or downright deter first-time buyers
44
FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES
Bakeware Trends
36
Holiday Lighting
28
bakeware must-haves from Orange Tree Imports
Bruce Co. gives us holiday lighting ideas, including the benefits of LED lights
The Home Entertainment Experience
12
decorating tips from Pieces Unimagined that will please yourself and guests
Kid's Closets
18
get organized with kid's closet and craft/hobby space ideas from Cabinet City
Sleep Allergy Free
20
bedding options for those with allergies from AmeriDown Factory Outlet
LANDSCAPE
Houseplants—Natural Air Purifiers
24
plants for your home or office that help improve air quality
REMODEL/RENOVATION
Current Design Trends Help Reclaim a Kitchen a remodel to create a lighter, more open kitchen
6
No Space Ignored—Basement Rec Rooms Featuring Dream House Dream Kitchens 14
creating a functional basement space where guests will feel comfortable
TECHNOLOGY
Sustainable Living— Smart Homes Save Energy and Money
smart home technologies that are changing the way we live
38
4 Advertiser Index 46 From The Editor
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
3
from the editor As I inexplicably face another year end and try to reconcile how it’s possible— certainly the year has just began—I review what has been accomplished and what goals need to move to the new year’s list. With any publication, new or old, there’s a continual pattern of change and growth, and we’ve had our share in 2019. At the end of this, our third year, I can honestly say that I’m not only grateful for how far we’ve come, but even more excited about where we’re going. Check that off the list and add it to next year’s. A sincere thanks to our readers, contributors, and sponsors. We started on this adventure with our hearts and pages open to you, and you have not disappointed. The publication is about home design, both inside and out, and in structure and details. It’s about where we live, where we go to relax, and where we bring people in to entertain and celebrate. We want to inspire our readers and each other to create spaces that fulfill the needs and wants of their inhabitants, and this magazine is the perfect forum to connect the many dots. A second New Year’s 2020 goal. I hope you’ll stick around and continue on this adventure. And if it happens that this is your first issue, where the heck have you been? No need to explain—I’m just glad you finally made it! Cheers and wishes that 2020 will be yet another year of change and growth, and that it best serves yourself and those you love.
Amy Johnson
4 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Want to save energy? Make mge.com your first stop. • Get easy, low-cost ways to save energy. • Use calculators to estimate your savings. • View energy-saving brochures. • Learn about Focus on Energy. Interested in our energy future? Visit mge2050.com.
GS3276 8/14/2019
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
5
REMODEL/RENOVATION
Current Design Trends
Help Reclaim a Kitchen
6 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
The homeowner wanted to bring their kitchen into the 21st century with a lighter, more open kitchen design. Creating a feeling of spaciousness while remaining connected to the other rooms in the home accomplished this goal. The room now feels rustic, yet modern, incorporating the perfect combination of earthy details and contemporary finishes.
Structural Changes A major structural change was required: reframing the existing trusses to allow vaulted ceilings to be the cornerstone of the new design. The airy ceilings were then carried into the adjoining sunroom, creating a nice flow from one space to the next.
After
Before
During
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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After
Before
Current Trend: Reclaimed Barn Wood Adding cosmetic, reclaimed barn-wood beams from Deconstruction, Inc. added a rustic farm-style touch to both the kitchen and sunroom spaces while retaining continuity between rooms. As often happens with remodeling projects, unexpected noncosmetic needs arose. The crawlspace under the kitchen required spray foam insulation to prevent drafts from entering the space.
During
Lighting The window directly above the new black soapstone sink was enlarged to add more natural light. Recessed can lights were installed when the vaulted ceilings were added. Current Trend: Oversized Pendant Lighting Fixtures Lighting fixtures placed over the kitchen island add warmth to balance the crisp, white cabinets. Flooring The existing oak flooring was sanded down to bare wood and refinished to a brighter color to add to the increased feeling of lightness in the space.
8 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
After
Functionality An underutilized door to the outside was removed to create a nook for a baking/prep station with wet bar and wine fridge. The cabinets are grey, adding to the feeling of a separate unique space within the overall design. Current Trend: Open Shelving Not lining all the wall surfaces with bulky cabinets adds to the spacious, airy feel of the kitchen. Attractive, often-used dishes can be displayed and remain easily accessible on open shelves. Countertops/Surfaces Soapstone, while more fragile than granite, has a softer, more natural/earthy look. Black granite would have been too slick and harsh for the desired aesthetic, but the soapstone, with all its natural veining, is the perfect surface to go with the reclaimed-brick wall surfaces. Soapstone, however, requires sealing to protect it from absorbing liquids and stains. Current Trend: Reclaimed Brick Balancing the white cabinetry, reclaimed brick from Deconstruction, Inc. was used as the backsplash behind the
After HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
9
After
main sink and on adjoining walls. For a softer, more natural surface that echoes the softness of the soapstone counters, the bricks were cut in half before installing. Appliances Commercial grade Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances replaced the dated ones in the original kitchen. Stainless steel finishes are balanced by the softer touches of the countertops and wall surfaces. Current Trend: Built-In Microwaves No more countertop microwaves taking up space and creating clutter.
View additional photographs at homeelementsandconcepts.com. Washa Remodeling & Design 2605 S. Stoughton Road, Suite 300 Madison, WI 53716 608.838.8318 washaremodeling.com Before
One has only to compare the before images with the final results to see how tastefully incorporating current design trends, even in a more modest home, can completely change a kitchen for the better, making a space feel light, bright, and welcoming! Photographs by Molly Mo Photography.
After
10 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
11
FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES
The Home Entertainment Experience Holiday parties can be more than eating and drinking. If you’re the host, you can make them an extension of yourself with the experience you create for your guests. I know a couple who uses their midcentury decorating penchant to give their guests a lively experience by inviting 17 aluminum Christmas trees to the party. Everyone remembers every moment, and I look forward to each year's invitation. Entertaining often begins with furnishing your home not to impress, but as an expression. Start with sentimental items you find beautiful, and display them in ways that speak to you. Use them to tell a personal story, which then translates into a memorable experience for others. William Morris, 18th century designer and poet, perfectly describes my design philosophy: “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” Display family heirlooms and photos and unique furnishings you like. Loved your trip to China? Include the souvenirs. Found a great desk? Buy it and then appoint the surface with items that fascinate you. And don't be afraid to add the art you like, even if you think others may find it too far out. It’s your home, your story. In creating a home as yours, your taste will not just please you, it will also intrigue guests and stimulate relaxed conversations. Your party will be the one people remember, and they’ll be waiting for their next invite!
Items sourced from Pieces Unimagined. piecesunimagined.com
12 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS 13
REMODEL/RENOVATION
No Space Ignored
Basement Rec Rooms Featuring Dream House Dream Kitchens by Kyle Jacobson Ever been to a friend’s basement or had people over to your own to hang out, watch the game, and have a few drinks only to find everyone crammed in a corner trying to get a good seat on the L-shaped sofa so they could have the optimal viewing angle, an end table to set their drink on, and are within arm’s reach of the coffee table for potato chip access? It doesn’t sound so bad. Then you realize nobody is at the recently installed bar or using the pool table, and you wonder why so much money went into something that only amounts to a showpiece.
14 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
This is what happens when a crucial step is skipped in remodeling your basement. You have the list of things you want, but you haven’t taken the time to envision how everything will be utilized in the available space. Jerry Schmidt of Dream House Dream Kitchens says, “We always try to encourage people to not think of the basement as the black sheep of the house. If you’re going to finish it off, you should actually finish it off to the same level of the rest of the house so it doesn’t feel like just your secondary space or that type of thing. It should feel like an extension of the
rest of the home.” Which isn’t to say that the basement doesn’t have a uniqueness to it, but descending the stairs should feel like a transition to another part of the house and not a removal from it. Leading to another hurdle—getting people into the basement. I always picture having this 12-foot bar with tappers and corny kegs when I get around to finishing my basement. That could work, but what’s the draw when the living room is just fine? “Everyone always thinks of finishing off their bar like they’re going to put in this giant wet bar, and they’re going to have Packer parties all the time,” says Jerry. “But the truth is when most people have friends and family over, they don’t even make it down to the basement because the kitchen is just kind of the center of the home. That’s where everyone congregates, and that’s where all the food is.” A great place to start getting people to the basement is proper lighting. Jerry says, “Basements can already feel like the cave of the house. ... If, even on a cold winter day or a rainy drizzly day, you go down there and you have plenty of light, the space feels better.” Well-placed lighting actually draws people to different spaces. True, you can try to light up the basement like the first floor, allowing in as much natural light as possible, but I’m personally attracted to a refined pub look. Lighting over a table, bar, and pool or shuffleboard table tells people where to congregate.
What a professional brings to the picture is the ability to see the whole picture. They’ve been doing remodels for years, sometimes decades, and their knowledge goes beyond trends. They know what works. Instead of just developing a space because it seems convenient, the real questions that need to be asked are how do you envision people interacting with this area and how do we make that happen. “We’re not just finishing off basements for the purpose of putting up walls,” says Jerry. “Finding a way to move people through the room is a bit of an art. ... You’d hate to have a huge basement space, and everyone just hangs out in 25 percent of it.” As mentioned, lighting is big part of encouraging interactions with spaces, but light doesn’t just involve a HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS 15 15
source. Different finishes for countertops and furniture, as well as carpeting, tile, and vinyl flooring, determine how light highlights a space. High-gloss surfaces brighten areas but also create a sheen. Sometimes a mixture of the above flooring and finishes is the right choice. “Carpet is a good absorber of sounds,” says Jerry. It’s also easier on the feet if you’re barefoot. Vinyl
flooring has the longevity aspect to it, though it can be cold. All these things are going to influence where people want to hang out. Something as simple as mounting multiple televisions can help your guests feel free to move about the area. There’s no one right way to do a basement. But whatever way is right for you, making a space where you and your guests feel comfortable is essential to creating something that will be used regularly for years to come. Kyle Jacobson is the senior copy editor and writer for Home Elements & Concepts. Photographs provided by Dream House Dream Kitchens. View additional photographs at homeelementsandconcepts.com.
After 16 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Dream House Dream Kitchens 5117 Verona Road Fitchburg, WI 53711 608.204.7575 dream-kitchens.com
Everyone Needs a Table.
Local artists using reclaimed woods and metals to create unique and useful furnishings and accents... affordably priced, well built.
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HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
17
FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES
Kid’s Closets Mastering Your Storage Spaces Brought to You by
Cabinets for every
room in your home!
There’s nothing quite like having kids in your life. A newborn’s reliance turns into unbridled love, and before you know it, they’re resentful teenagers ready to take on the world with overconfidence and a blog. Through it all, their organizational needs will change, and being able to adapt to those needs is much easier when we incorporate versatility into the spaces our kids interact with on a daily basis. Closets are notorious hampers. Without shelving, shoes get buried under dirty clothes and forgotten boardgames. One might consider hiring a contractor to install shelves, drawers, and
18 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
closet rods for hangers. But if this is done when your child is three years old, the likelihood of the closet fitting their new clothes, toys, and backpack when they turn six is unlikely. A 32-millimeter adjustable closet rod system offers a flexible permanent solution. When your child is younger, you can use triple hanging in one section of the closet to open up the other end for games, dolls, and folded laundry. When they start to wear larger clothes, pop out a shelf and a rod to provide a wider space for double hanging. Everything moves to create the organization the next year requires as different interests in sports and hobbies dictate. With those interests also comes a need to station a craft/hobby space. Providing such a space keeps the house cleaner while ensuring a reduced frequency of distractions. It also helps reduce expenditures, like buying another pair of scissors even though you know you have three perfectly good pairs somewhere not in the tumbler—where they’re supposed to be! Designing these spaces earlier on gives your child the tools they need to stay organized, helping them facilitate their drive to discover who they are and what they love. Photographs by ORG Home.
© ORG Home
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS 19
FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES
SLEEP Allergy Free!
It’s estimated that 30 percent of adults and 40 percent of children in the United States suffer from allergies. That’s more than 50 million Americans, ranking allergies as the sixth leading chronic disease in our country. Build an allergy-free foundation with our bed basics that will provide you with unmatched comfort and support for years to come.
Over 35 percent of people living with allergies report disturbed sleep. AmeriDown Factory Outlet has a beautiful selection of bedding that will help you achieve your best sleep ever. They’ve manufactured comforters, pillows, featherbeds, and mattress pads in their La Crosse factory for over 100 years, making them somewhat of an expert on sleep comfort. They also offer luxurious sheets, blankets, quilts, and towels that allow you to take your comfort to a whole other level. And even though the word “down” is in their name, and it’s what they’re best known for, they also offer a down-free version of their filled products that is a great choice for those living with allergies or for those customers who want to save a little money and still have an amazingly comfortable and beautiful bed. Down-filled bedding is highly sought after because of its light, lofty warmth without added weight. It’s believed that people are allergic to dust on improperly cleaned down rather than the down itself. While some down, like that at AmeriDown, is responsibly sourced and meticulously cleaned with phosphate-free soap and thoroughly sterilized to remove allergens, if you or a loved one suffers from
20 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
allergies or asthma and don’t want to take the chance of sleeping with down bedding, down-free products are suggested. Down free is a hypoallergenic microfiber fill that has a soft hand for comforters and good support for pillows and fiber beds. The characteristics of this synthetic fiber mimic the desirable characteristics of down, plus, because it’s hypoallergenic, it’s ideal for even the most sensitive users. Down-free products are machine washable, making them easy to clean and care for. Comforters come in different warmth levels to provide just the right amount of cozy comfort. AmeriDown provides three options. • Light Comfort—perfect for warmer seasons and climates, and ideal for those who keep their bedroom temperature between 69 and 74 degrees Fahrenheit. • Medium Comfort—perfect year-round for those who keep their bedroom temperature between 65 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit. • Extra Comfort—a cozy choice for late fall through early spring, and if your bedroom temperatures are between 62 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Comforters are offered in a variety of colors and are made with a 100 percent cotton shell woven with 293 threads Use decorative pillows throughout your home to add a pop of color and express your individual style—affordable and fun to swap out as you transition through the seasons.
Add layers of warmth and comfort to your bed with cozy sheets; stylish quilts; and warm, lofty comforters.
per square inch. To reduce the number of launderings and prolong the life of your comforter, it’s suggested you use a comforter cover, which will not only protect your comforter, but also add beauty and style to your room. Comforter covers are available in a variety of solid colors, prints, and thread counts. Your top-of-bed choice is the centerpiece of your room, allowing you to express your personal style. Pillows are available in different levels of firmness because the way you sleep has a big impact on the firmness required to support your head, neck, and shoulders. • Soft support is suggested for stomach sleepers. The soft, plump pillow will cushion your head and neck at a comfortable angle, allowing your head to turn naturally from one side to the other. • Medium support is suggested for back sleepers, and will cradle the natural curvature of the upper spine while supporting your head and neck. • Firm support is suggested for side sleepers. A firm pillow will contour and cradle the head, neck, and shoulders, aligning your entire body. Once you find the right level of firmness, you’re going to want to extend the life of your pillow by using a pillow HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
21
Percales, sateens, and flannel— we have a variety of sheeting fabrics to suit your personal preference and add beauty and comfort to your bed.
Enjoy that spa feeling every day at home with our Egyptian cotton towels and warm, cozy robes that come in a variety of on-trend colors that are always in season.
protector. This will help keep your pillow clean and fresh while offering an extra layer of protection. Down-free mattress toppers and fiber beds add an extra layer of softness to your mattress while lengthening its life by providing a layer of protection. The only issue may be that your bed is so comfortable you won’t want to get out of it! Value, comfort, and style mean something different to each consumer, and AmeriDown Factory Outlet welcomes you to stop in to work with a trained sales associate, who will help you find the best products to meet your needs. Even if you’re living with allergies and don’t often sleep well, you can improve the quality of your sleep and have the bed of your dreams by knowing what to buy and how to care for your bedding. Photographs by Barbara Wilson. View additional photographs at homeelementsandconcepts.com. AmeriDown Factory Outlet 7404 Mineral Point Road Madison, WI 53717 608.833.8333 ameridown-factory-outlet.business.site
22 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Have you met
Audrey? She’s in the lobby. Grab a drink at the bar and learn more about her... Located in the Hilton Madison Hotel 9 East Wilson Street • www.theaudreykitchenandbar.com
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Downtown Madison • Madison West •Middleton •Monona • Sun Prairie *40% off applies to any purchase of a Hallman Lindsay labeled paint or stain product. Offer expires 1/31/2020 HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
23
LANDSCAPE
HOUSEPLANTS
Natural Air Purifiers by Amanda Dix Many people don’t realize the amount of toxins in indoor environments. It’s quite unnerving considering an average human spends most of their time inside. In fact, indoor air pollution is one of the greatest public health risks. A few pollutants that may reside in your home include paint, furniture, cleaning products, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Poorly ventilated areas are even more susceptible to indoor air pollution. Don’t fret—houseplants are the perfect natural remedy for reducing these toxins. More than simply decorative, plants have a functional purpose. Studies by NASA, Penn State University, and the University of Georgia indicate houseplants absorb unhealthy VOCs and improve air quality. Not only do they supply oxygen, they also have the ability to absorb harmful compounds, such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and carbon monoxide. Are you feeling moody, unproductive, or maybe under the weather? Plants also enhance workplace performance and can be considered a complementary medicine. Having The dramatic, variegated foliage of dracaena makes a statement in any room.
Snake plants are one of the most tolerant plants. T hey can survive low light levels, drought, and have few insect problems.
houseplants in the work place can help improve positivity, increase creativity, and reduce distractions. In fact, you’ll find houseplants in many of the staff offices at Olbrich Botanical Gardens! The National Library of Medicine has also done a study about plants in a hospital setting. The study helped prove that patients with plants had more positive health outcomes than those without them. Patients exposed to the “healing environments” had lower postoperative blood pressure, less pain, and decreased anxiety. Being surrounded by plants indoors is also a great way to reduce the chance of getting sick with a cold, cough, or sore throat. If you want to try your hand at growing houseplants, some of our favorites are philodendron, peace lily, dracaena, aloe vera, ficus, snake plant, spider plant, croton, aralia, Chinese evergreen, bamboo, and ZZ plant. Here are some guides to growing some at home.
24 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Ficus Perfect as a houseplant and highly sought after for its unique tree-like habit. However, it can be a little more finicky than other plants. Be sure to place in a spot that gets bright indirect light with temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep away from cold drafty windows and heat vents, as it can be sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Ficus like high humidity, so mist frequently or keep it on top of a tray of rocks with water in it. While it likes high humidity, keep in mind that it prefers dry feet. Allow it to dry out before watering. It’s a somewhat heavy feeder, so be sure to fertilize once a month from spring to fall and more sparingly in the winter. Snake Plant The snake plant is one of the most easygoing plants. It can tolerate a wide range of light levels, humidity, and temperatures. If you have a tendency to forget about your houseplants, this one’s for you! One thing to remember, though, is to not overwater, as it is sensitive to root rot. The soil must dry out completely (similar to a succulent plant) before watering thoroughly again. Also, keep away from direct sun because it burns easily. Fertilizing one to two times a year should be adequate. Ficus trees produce figs, though it's highly unlikely an indoor ficus plant will bear fruit, unless you have a very specific species of fig wasp residing in your house or office!
Photograph by Katy Plantenberg / Olbrich Botanical Gardens
ZZ Plant A great option for very low-light situations and fluctuating temperatures. It will do well in a low to bright filtered light area, and the temperatures can be 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t expose to full sun, as it will burn quickly. Allow the plant to dry out thoroughly before watering again, as it is prone to stem and rhizome rot. Use a media that has good drainage, but can also hold adequate moisture. Feed monthly when the plant is actively growing.
ZZ plants require little light and have infrequent water needs, making them one of the easiest houseplants to grow. They can even thrive in interior or windowless spaces, like in the office pictured.
Dracaena One of the most attractive plants because of its variegated leaves. It can liven any room with its striking colorful foliage. As with most houseplants, don’t allow it to sit in direct sun. Filtered indirect light is preferable. Also, allow the soil to dry and don’t overwater. Dracaena isn’t too picky about temperature—just make sure it doesn’t get below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The right houseplants not only provide a little more peace of mind in each breath you take, they provide comfort and make your home feel more lively with a touch or two of green. Amanda Dix is the assistant conservatory curator at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. View additional photographs at homeelementsandconcepts.com. Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Avenue Madison, WI 53704 608.246.4550 olbrich.org HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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26 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
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FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES FINANCIAL
Holiday Lighting Brought to You by
Director of Seasonal Innovation Lisa Briggs As the days begin to noticeably shorten, many of us try to beat back the dark with festive twinkling lights. I spend my fall decorating the Garden Center for the holidays, and as those days draw closer, I relish the drive home when house after house lights up with their own version of Christmas sparkle. I love it all, from traditional white fairy lights to trendier multicolored icicles. LED Lights Many contemplate the switch from incandescent to LED lights, so here’s the scoop. LED lights use diodes instead of filaments to produce light, which makes them more efficient, longer lasting,
28 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
and cost effective over time. LEDs are also cool to the touch because very little of the light they produce is released as heat. Most bulbs are molded and cannot be individually replaced as bulbs burn out, so when a string is done, it’s done. This could be a positive or negative depending on whether testing lights is part of your holiday tradition. Color has been another important deal breaker for many of us. The weirdly bluish hue of early LEDs was a huge turnoff for those of us trying to mimic the golden light of incandescent bulbs, but I can now say that the newer warm white LED lamps are difficult to distinguish from clear incandescent ones. And, of course, all of the latest, coolest effects are created with LED lights. New strings are multifunctional—they’re dimmable, and many can switch from warm white to multicolored with the flick of a switch. This ends the age-old argument of whether you fall into the clear or multilight decorating camp. Some of my favorite LED lights are from European designers, who take a less traditional approach to holiday decorating, which is hugely appreciated as I create almost 30 themes every year. Red, green, and warm white can only take us so far. I’ve ombré-lit a tree from blue to cool white to pure white. We’ve lit a fireplace with swirls of pink and purple. And I love the versatility of compact twinkles, microbunches, twig balls, and polestars. More Lighting Projects Don’t think that once you’ve lit your trees and rooflines you’re done. How about a basket of pine cones sparkling with battery-operated copper wire lights? Or your holiday porch containers made extra twinkly with a lit tomato cage or fanciful meadow lights? The possibilities are endless. As our gardens fade from the brilliant colors of summer and fall to a more subdued starkness of winter, holiday lights are a way to combat winter gloom with illumination. We can remain warm and cozy inside while gazing through steamed-up windows to a well-lit, magical holiday landscape.
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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BUSINESS DESIGN After
The Audrey Kitchen + Bar.
Hilton Madison Monona Terrace A Reflection of Wisconsin Culture
by Kyle Jacobson
Photograph by Linda Snyder
Before
It wasn’t long ago that hotels felt like places favoring function over aesthetics. You need a place to sleep? Here’s a bed. It’ll feel like home because we put a painting of a flower over the headrest. For maximum comfort, enjoy our television. We have HBO. You’re hungry? Bagel and coffee—it’s continental. Then all the facilities felt like they came out of the drab motel-like nursing home in Bubba HoTep. Actually, in some places this hasn’t changed. But when the Hilton Madison Monona Terrace decided to remodel, they aimed to create spaces guests would make a point to seek out. It starts with checking in. “The front desk used to be a very old style with a barrier that was tucked
30 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
The front desk is shared with a lobby that’s part library, part coffeehouse. Tile floor mimicking the wood planks of a spa connects the spaces to transition past a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired screenless shoji-wall partition. There, white spherical fixtures and circular accents give contrast to a very linear backdrop and foreground of carpet and couches. This is all next to a great hearth of brickwork also inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright.
guests to the Hilton’s new signature restaurant: The Audrey Kitchen + Bar. The Audrey is named after Audrey Munson, America’s first supermodel and the first American female actor to appear fully nude in film. She’s also attributed to nearly 100 sculptures, 3 of which are part of the Wisconsin State Capitol, including the bronze statue at the dome’s peak.
Before
Photograph by Linda Snyder
Partially in the lobby is the bar—a long white marble caneshaped top with slender Edison bulbs hanging overhead like celestial raindrops. Skip says, “We were trying to pull the bar together into the lobby instead of having a formal lobby setting. This is a place you can drink. You can have some food. Everything works together.” Blue marbled vinyl stools add to the refinement, guiding
After
Photograph by Eric Tadsen
Photograph by Eric Tadsen
into the wall,” says Skip Harless, general manager of the hotel. “[Designer Linda Synder] took it and moved it out into the space to make it freestanding, so the guest services agents can move around very quickly and easily.” In addition, the guests find the staff to be more accessible without the degree of separation inherent in having a closed off area for staff only.
The Audrey Bar, featuring unique specialty cocktails and over 30 Wisconsin beers.
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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Photograph by Eric Tadsen
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The Munson Room, a semiprivate dining or meeting space for groups in The Audrey Kitchen + Bar.
Much like Audrey, the restaurant has the versatility to accommodate all needs. More Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired partitions help create cozy nooks, movable seating adjusts for groups of various sizes, and there’s even a space that can be altered to create a large table. Along the far wall, paintings from local artists sit on a ledge, rather than being hung. “Everybody always asks when we’re going to hang the art,” says Skip. “But it’s exactly placed as the designer wanted it.” The real charm of the remodel comes through in pieces by Wisconsin artists, found in abundance throughout the lobby and restaurant. When Linda came from Los Angeles, CA, to get a sense of Madison, she was struck by the number of notable artists in the area, including Emily Arthur, Barry Roel Carlsen, John S. Miller, Deb Gottschalk, and Eric Thomas Wolever. Some of the most prominent works featured in the redesign are by Brian Kluge. His collections of clay buoys are displayed to not only complement the other pieces, but to add to the motif of water hinted at through blue carpeting, walls, and beach-house bathroom doors. “He spent hours laying these out,” says Skip. “He originally placed these on a board to get the angle the way he wanted so they look like they’re floating.” Sketches of the buoys are framed on the lobby’s library shelves, a touch that gives the layout a feeling of totality in process and coherence. 32 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
The largest piece is behind the front counter. Large ceramic forget-me-nots, the bottom row full of color and the top fading away, are as lovely as they are personal for artist Meghan Sullivan—breathing a powerful whisper to the mental deterioration that is Alzheimer’s. To the left of the front desk is the Hilton’s new event space: the Liberty Room. Here, images from Norwegian culture and the early days of Madison sparingly give life to the wall. Dropped headers create white honeycombs wherein light fixtures add to the natural light given by large windows at the far ends of the room. Ranette Maurer, the hotel’s director of sales, says, “This is another option for people looking for a unique space, such as a private room in a restaurant in Madison, because it’s not traditional hotel ballroom space. It has a very distinct look and feel that’s a little bit different. There’s a lot of personality. It’s a bit more sophisticated.” It’s not garish, which can happen in hotel spaces. The remodel accomplishes much in differentiating itself as a distinct piece of the state, capturing the regency of the capitol, the idyllic lure of the isthmus, and the profound eye of the Wisconsin artist. Its big open concept transitions with ease from calm to esteem, both seasoned amongst one another to balance their potencies. Linda’s realized vision certainly has a lot to say to residents. It’s a fantastic reminder
Photograph by Eric Tadsen
After
Welcome check-in desk with a beautiful sweeping ceramic art piece by Wisconsin artist Meghan Sullivan.
After
that speaks to easily overlooked facets of our culture worthy of celebration.
View additional photographs at homeelementsandconcepts.com. Visit homeelementsandconcepts.com for an online exclusive article featuring project designer Linda Snyder. Also pick up Madison Essentials and visit madisonessentials.com for more on the art and artists.
Photograph by Eric Tadsen
Kyle Jacobson is a copy editor and writer for Home Elements & Concepts.
The Liberty Room—a beautiful new and unique event space, perfect for social gatherings or special meetings.
To learn more about Hilton Monona Terrace’s new restaurant, The Audrey, check out Madison Magazine at channel3000.com/madison-magazine/m-studio/the-audrey.
Photograph by Eric Tadsen
Hilton Madison Monona Terrace 9 E. Wilson Street Madison, WI 53703 608.255.5100 hiltonmadison.com
After
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES
Bakeware Trends While the holidays are a popular time for cookies and other sweets, bread baking is a year-round staple for many. Artisan loaves are at the top of the list. Bakers looking for professional results can let their dough rise in a banneton (proofing basket) before baking it on an Emile Henry baking stone or in a cloche, which is a baking stone covered with a bell-shaped domed lid that traps steam for better rise and a crisper crust. For traditionally shaped loaves, home bakers prefer aluminized steel pans by USA PAN with an easy-release silicone-based, nonstick finish. This is especially useful for gluten-free breads, which tend to be sticky and fragile.
The Great British Bake Off exposed American cooks to the digital scale for precise ingredient measurements. A popular one by Escali comes in a lot of colors and does metric and imperial measurements. All our digital scales have a tare feature so you can put a bowl on the scale, zero it out, and weigh what you put in it. Zero it again and you can measure all the ingredients in one bowl. A new item at Orange Tree Imports this season is a puppy-treat baking pan for making dog-bone-shaped biscuits. It allows pet owners concerned about what they feed their pets to control the quality of their treats. Holiday cookie basics have been improved by the advent of silicone, including the Silpat nonstick baking mat to use on cookie sheets for even baking and easy cleanup. Silicone spatulas and spoons are great for mixing and are heat resistant to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. There are also silicone muffin pans with wire-rim structure, so they are easy to move in and out of the oven. Rimmed sheet pans are perfect for popular sheet-pan dinners. The Nordic Ware line of aluminum bakeware is made in Minneapolis. USA PAN bakeware has a nonstick silicone coating for easy cleanup. You can add a rack to do oven-baked chicken, bacon, or roasted potatoes. Families love making holiday cookies together, and we’re seeing a trend toward cookie stamps, springerle rolling pins, and cookie cutters to make a wide variety of cookie styles. The OXO cookie press is perfect for spritz cookies—a Wisconsin holiday favorite. For those with a small family (or a small kitchen), toaster-oven-sized cheesecake pans, sheet pans, and muffin tins are also perfect for personal-sized treats and homemade gifts.
Items sourced by Orange Tree Imports. orangetreeimports.com
36 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS 37
TECHNOLOGY
SUSTAINABLE LIVING Smart Homes Save Energy and Money The touch of a screen, swipe of your finger, and sound of your voice have never been more powerful. In today's smart home, that's all it takes to turn on the lights or adjust the temperature. Smart home technologies are changing the way we live, allowing us to automate everything from thermostats to electronics to appliances. While smart home devices make life easier, they can also save energy, and the energy experts at Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) are ready to help!
What's a Smart Home? Smart homes come in all shapes and sizes. They can be studio apartments with a single smart outlet controlling a lamp or large houses with multiple smart devices that are integrated and controlled remotely. What a smart home means to you depends on what you want to get out of it. Whether you start small or opt for the bells and whistles, there are plenty of smart devices on the market to help you achieve your energy-saving goals. • With heating and cooling being the biggest home energy users, a smart thermostat is a wise investment. These devices use artificial intelligence to learn your routine—when you tend to leave, when you return home, and your preferred temperature in various seasons. Using that information, the thermostat controls your home's temperature. You also can control it remotely via smartphone, tablet, or computer. Some models even tell you when to change a dirty filter or schedule a tune-up before a costly repair is needed. • Eligible MGE customers can take advantage of a $50 cash-back incentive from Wisconsin's Focus on
38 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Energy ® program for purchasing a qualified ENERGY STAR® smart thermostat. Focus on Energy is an MGE energy efficiency partner. • As part of MGE's Energy 2030 framework, new technologies are being advanced to help customers save energy, control costs, and reduce our collective impact. By working with customers, MGE can reach its target of net-zero carbon electricity by 2050. MGE's seasonal smart thermostat program—MGE Connect—rewards participating customers who help MGE better understand the potential for reducing electric peaks using smart technologies. • Smart power strips are an effective way to prevent phantom energy. This is the energy that many appliances and electronics use when they are plugged in—even if they're turned off. In fact, phantom power accounts for approximately 6 percent of an average household's energy use. Smart power strips detect when a device is in standby mode and cut off power to that device to help you save energy. Smart power strips also are designed to turn off a group of devices. For example, if your television and three other electronics are plugged into a smart power strip and you turn off the television, the smart power strip will turn off the other devices, too. It's affordable and easy to try a smart power strip with a free energy efficiency kit from Focus on Energy. • Lighting is another major energy user, but smart bulbs can help manage the cost. These LED-based bulbs can be placed in most fixtures and connect to your home's Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control lights from anywhere you have internet access. Smart bulbs also have dimming capabilities that you can use even if you don't have a dimmer on the wall. If you have multiple smart bulbs, some apps allow you to arrange them in groups so you can adjust the brightness of an entire group at one time. Plus, because they are LED bulbs, they are more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs.
Navigating Smart Technology There's a lot to learn when it comes to smart home technologies, from adding a few devices to installing an entire command center that can control all your products. MGE can provide tips and answer your questions about home automation and saving energy. MGE's energy experts are available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call the MGE Home Energy Line at 608.252.7117 or 800.245.1125 or send an email to AskExperts@mge.com. You may also visit mge2050.com and mge.com/saving-energy. Making Other Informed Choices In addition to using smart home devices, you can take other steps to save energy and money. When it's time for new appliances and other household products, invest in ENERGY STAR models. From dishwashers and refrigerators to lighting and clothes dryers, ENERGY STAR products use less energy, save money, and help protect the environment. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when you shop or visit ENERGY STAR's website for more details. Photographs provided by MGE. Energy Efficiency Kit focusonenergy.com/seesignup ENERGY STAR energystar.gov Focus on Energy focusonenergy.com/smart MGE Connect mge.com/MGEConnect
• If you don't want to replace your current lightbulbs with smart bulbs, consider a smart outlet. A smart outlet, or smart plug, is a device that plugs into a regular electrical outlet. It allows you to control lighting or almost anything else you plug in through an app on your smartphone or mobile device. You can also set schedules to turn on lights at sundown or anytime you prefer. HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
Photograph by Chris Brockel
Excess produce is collected from farms, then cleaned and repackaged at FEED Kitchens for distribution to food pantries and neighborhoods all over Madison.
Northside Planning Council Fostering a Stronger Northside Community by Lauri Lee The Northside Planning Council (NPC), an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3), has advocated quality-of-life improvements for Madison’s 22,000 north side residents and fostered equity through community organizing and economic development since 1993. The formerly known northeast or east side lacked its own identity, so NPC’s first order of business was to brand it as Northside. The neighborhood faced the same demographics and challenges as the rest of Madison, but because of a higher 40 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
concentration of affordable homes for working families, there was a greater need to advance racial and economic equity and to transform the area’s challenges into assets. Northside is bordered by the beautiful natural resources of Lake Mendota and Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park, Dane County Regional Airport, Madison College, Aberg corridor, and Packers Avenue to the former Oscar Mayer plant. The neighborhood enjoys a small-town character all
Photograph by Brendon Krueger
Photograph by Chris Brockel
Businesses and organizations donate food leftover from feeding large crowds of people or employees to Healthy Food For All to be repackaged and distributed to Madison food pantries instead of going to waste.
There is a high demand for skilled bakers and restaurant workers. People who complete the FEED Bakery Training Program can apply for entry level employment in bakeries, restaurants, and cafés.
its own and a cohesive culture for a multitude of ethnicities. Largely due to the affordability of housing, demographics show the neighborhood is home to more families with children ages 0 to 18 and seniors. Dedicated and passionate NPC volunteer citizen leaders assess neighborhood needs and set out to transform the area by engaging residents, building leadership capacity, and developing partnerships to impact its associations, schools, nonprofits, and small businesses. Accomplishments include the Warner Park Community Recreation Center, neighborhood associations, Troy Community Gardens, Dane County TimeBank, Grassroots Leadership College, Eastside PTO Coalition, and more. Many in the neighborhood lack transportation, so when the only grocery store closed in 2003, NPC established the Northside Farmers Market and helped bring in Pierce’s Northside Market in 2007. When Pierce’s announced plans to close in 2015, NPC asked Willy Street Co-op to open a store. The organizations then partnered to provide a shuttle to nearby grocery stores until Willy Street Co-op opened in August 2016. The Northside News, a free bimonthly newspaper, started in 1995 to cover news and issues not covered by other sources. It tells the stories of Northside people, places, and activities with a strong sense of pride, and is delivered free to every Northside household and area business.
The Northside Economic Development Coalition was established in 2011 to convene business owners, developers, city economic-development leaders, business organizations, and alders to revitalize the business district and discuss projects, proposals, and concerns. It also mentors minority business owners and connects them to the Northside News, Northside Business Association, and Dane Buy Local for additional support and networking. In 2015, NPC became a nonprofit community development organization with community-based economic development programs. • Neighborhood and civic capacity-building services. Organize and facilitate candidate forums and community meetings; host the North Star Awards; and provide fiscal agency services, training, and community tools to neighborhood and civic groups. The Stable Families, Strong Community program supports, engages, and connects with residents whose voices often go unheard. • Food security. Healthy Food For All is a foodrecovery project that works with farmers and corporate cafeterias to rescue produce and prepared foods from becoming food waste, and to ensure Dane County children and families can access affordable, healthy, and culturally cognizant food for better health outcomes and a higher quality of life. HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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Photograph by Chris Brockel
Healthy Food For All volunteers repackage prepared food from large cafeterias into family-sized servings for distribution through food pantries. This is high-quality food that would otherwise be thrown away.
The local ecosystem is also protected by reducing landfill waste—more than 315,000 pounds of food have been rescued since 2015.
program with food-industry job placement support. The 90-day program provides free baking and lifeskills instruction to eligible individuals.
• Small business incubation. FEED (Food Enterprise and Economic Development) Kitchens is a shared commercial kitchen space and business incubator that opened fall 2013. Rental access to over $500,000 in equipment helps food entrepreneurs begin and grow their businesses, and small businesses, nonprofits, training programs, and community groups have a place to prepare food. In its five years, 130-plus businesses have been supported, 150-plus jobs have been created, and more than $5 million in business revenue has been generated. These businesses are 45 percent owned by people of color and 45 percent owned by women.
• Regional food system coordination. NPC administrates the Madison Public Market’s MarketReady program, launched in 2017. There are 30 new and growing businesses through the initiative, which are 80 percent owned by people of color and 60 percent owned by women. MarketReady provides peer support, mentorship, promotional opportunities, and microgrants to a diverse cohort of entrepreneurs. With NPC as an ongoing advocate, Northside is ready to meet the changing needs of its evolving community. Lauri Lee is a freelance writer living in Madison.
• Vocational training. FEED Bakery Training program started in 2016 to ensure that un- and under-employed individuals have access to a local vocational training 42 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Northside Planning Council northsideplanningcouncil.org
HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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FINANCIAL
Dispelling First-Time
HOMEBUYING MYTHS by Julio Rios
Buying a home can be intimidating. There are fun parts, like rifling through the latest listings, hitting the open houses, and plotting makeovers that will turn a nice house into a dream house, but these high points can be overshadowed by the uncertainty and worry that often accompany the firsttime homebuying process. You can make the experience less stressful by knowing the myths that stress out or downright deter first-time buyers. In the spirit of keeping hope alive for nervous newbies, we’re dispelling the top eight myths. You Need a 20 Percent Down Payment While a down payment of 20 percent or more lowers your mortgage and helps you avoid paying for private mortgage insurance, if you've got a good credit rating and steady income you can buy a home with as little as 3 percent down. 44 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Your monthly payments will be higher, but if a smaller down payment option helps you get into the market quicker, you’ll start building equity sooner. You’ll Get a Better Deal Without an Agent Definitely not. Especially for a first-time buyer, a realtor is an essential piece of the puzzle, giving you vital information and looking out for your best interests. Be smart about finding the realtor that's best for you. Interview at least three candidates, read the realtor's reviews, talk to former clients, and find out if their closed properties are similar to what you’re looking for. You Can’t Pay for a Mortgage if You’re Paying Off Student Loans While some first-time homebuyers with student loans have difficulty saving for down payments, lenders don’t look
at your total student debt, but rather at the amount you pay each month. The important ratio is what you pay each month relative to your monthly income. You Need a Perfect Credit Score Very few have a perfect credit score, so there are different plans with different requirements. Lenders usually want a score of at least 620. If your score is below that, you can take steps to raise it by reducing debt and paying your bills on time. If you don’t have time to boost your credit score, the Federal Housing Administration has home loans for borrowers with credit scores as low as 620. Knowing your score before you apply for a mortgage will give you a better idea of the kind of financing you can expect. A 30-Year Mortgage is Your Best Option If you want low monthly payments and plan to stay in your house for many years, a 30-year mortgage may be the right fit. But if you’re buying a first home, you may only stay a few years before trading up. If that’s the case, consider an adjustable-rate mortgage, which delivers a low fixed rate for a set number of years before it adjusts annually to the prime rate. This way you'll enjoy low payments for the initial fixed-rate period before you sell or refinance. Zero Closing Cost Mortgages are the Best Way to Go To be perfectly clear, there's no such thing as zero closing costs. Closing costs include things like attorney fees and title insurance, and they typically add between 2 percent to 5 percent of your home’s purchase price. They're never waived, but they can be deferred by wrapping them into your loan and paid with a slightly higher interest rate. While this will save you money up front, it will also cost a little more over the long term.
Private Mortgage Insurance is Too Expensive This is a little ambiguous. If your down payment is less than 20 percent, you'll be required to take on private mortgage insurance, which protects the lender in the event you stop making payments. Mortgage insurance premiums generally range between 0.17 percent to 1.5 percent of the total loan amount. That shouldn't be a deal breaker as it can provide peace-of-mind by not emptying your bank account to cover a 20 percent down payment. Weigh the costs and benefits carefully. Low Inventory is Locking Out First-Time Homebuyers Not true, but the market is competitive. For highly motivated first-time buyers, monitor the multiple listing service (MLS) and be prepared to look at properties the day they’re listed. Other effective strategies include monitoring social media for people preparing to list and using personal letters or other creative methods to help your offer break through. And, of course, it always helps to be preapproved for your home loan; expand your search area; and above all, never give up! Julio Rios is vice president of Mortgage Lending at UW Credit Union (uwcu.org). Photographs provided by UW Credit Union. View additional photographs at homeelementsandconcepts.com. UW Credit Union 3500 University Avenue Madison, WI 53705 800.533.6773 uwcu.org HOME ELEMENTS & CONCEPTS
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– Advertiser index Abel Contemporary Gallery 23,
26 AmeriDown Factory Outlet 26 The Audrey Kitchen + Bar 23 The Bruce Company 43 Cabinet City 2, 5 Convivio 26 Dane Buy Local 34 Dane County Humane Society 35 DC Interiors & Renovations 47 Dream House Dream Kitchens 2 Dream Tile 2 Garden Search & Rescue 43 Hallman Lindsay Paints 23 Iconi Interiors & Consignment 17 M.O.D. Media Productions 43 Madison Originals 34 MGE 5 Monroe Street Framing 35 Odana Antiques and Fine Arts Center 27 Orange Tree Imports 27 Pieces Unimagined 17, 27 Posh & Patina Interiors 27 Shire Wood / Accord Realty 17 Simply Creative Productions 34 Sugar Creek Homes 26 Tadsen Photography 34 UW Credit Union 48 Vineyard Chic 17 Washa Remodeling & Design 11 Wolff Kubly Hardware 43
– PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! Towns & Associates, Inc. is happy to provide local lifestyle magazines free of charge to the Greater Madison area. We could not do so without the support of our advertising sponsors, and we appreciate every one of them. We hope that you will consider them when deciding where to dine, shop, and play, and when you need services. These businesses represent the true entrepreneurial spirit of our community! 46 Additional photos at homeelementsandconcepts.com
Enter the – Drawing to Win
WOLFF KUBLY
Housewares • Hardware • Garden • Time Center
Win a 121 pc. Craftsman Tool Set A value of $180.
Enter by submitting your name, mailing address, phone number, and email at homeelementsandconcepts.com, or by mail to: Home Elements & Concepts c/o Towns & Associates, Inc. PO Box 174 Baraboo, WI 53913-0174 All entries will be entered into a drawing. Deadline is December 16, 2019.
Good Luck!
Winner Thank you to everyone who entered our previous drawing. The winner of 2 gallons of Magnolia Home interior paint by Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame from Wolff Kubly is J.M. Much of Sun Prairie, WI.
Congratulations!
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From Moving On Up To Easing On Down. At UW Credit Union, we have mortgages for every stage of life. Whether it’s for a starter home or a dream home, our dedicated team guides you through the process while ensuring you get the right loan that helps you move in faster. We’re excited to show you why 96% of our members say we meet or exceed their expectations.* Apply today, or contact us by phone, in person or online.
Mortgages For Every You. | uwcu.org 800-533-6773
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