Urban Home Magazine April May 2012

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April/May 2012

CHARLOTTE URBAN

Designs | Lifestyles | Fashions | Improvements

Minimalism Finds Home in the South The Alternative Gardener Beyond the Back Porch

Jim Schmid Photography

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CONTENTS

april/may 2012

Designs | Lifestyles | Fashions | Improvements

14

Reaching 180,000 homes annually

april/may 2012

24

VOL 12 NO 2

www.urbanhomemagazine.com Publisher Mark Herrmann Managing Editor Anne Marie Ashley

30

Editorial Director Tammy Wanchisn

52

Writers Nancy Atkinson Ginger Sprinkle Dana Todd Sales Kathleen Hands Art Direction Harriet McDowall PageCreations Photography Jim Schmid Photography www.jimschmid.com

trends

departments

14 Showcase Home

Minimalism Finds Home in the South

why hire a?

32 Why Hire a Landscape Architect

Production Administrator Shelley Kemper

24 Outdoor Trends

Beyond the Back Porch

Direct Mail Quad Graphics

30 Garden Trends

The Alternative Gardener

essentials 42 New Products for Your Home 66 New Products for Your Kitchen and Bath

Contributing Editors Trent Haston Beth Keim Melissa Lamkin

Phone 704-332-1504 Fax 704-973-5685 Email: comments@urbanhomemagazine.com Website: www.urbanhomemagazine.com All contents copyright 2012, Casey Communications Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent from publisher. Mention of any product or service does not constitute endorsement from Urban Home Magazine. The information contained in this publication is deemed reliable from third party sources, but not guaranteed. Casey Communications Inc. does not act as an agent for any of the advertisers in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified remodeling, home furnishings or home improvement firm based on your own selection criteria.

Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Charlotte Urban Home Magazine, will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate which is a violation of the Fair Housing Act. All real estate advertising in Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a.

Charlotte Urban Home Magazine, is subject to the Fair Housing Act which states “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.”

Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Charlotte Urban Home Magazine, does not act as an agent for any of the realtors or builders in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified realtor to assist you in your new home purchase.

8 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

52 Bedroom Trends

Romancing the Bedroom

features

why the room works 50 The Furniture Connector

day tripping 68 Asheville, North Carolina

outside

contributing editors

real estate

44 room service:

Loft Meets Ranch

34 Beauty in Bloom All Year 38 Charlotte’s New Bright Spot

lifestyles

48 Nature Neutrals Rule the Home

improvements

62 A New Stone Experience

beth keim

building a better home: trent haston

Added Value, Added Dimension

58

70 style guide: meliss a lamkin

Equal Parts Style & Comfort

vintage glam: 72 Vintage Glam

melissa lamkin

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13 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

14 Schmid Urban Photography Home Charlotte Jim

April/May 2012

minimalism Finds Home in the South

By Anne Marie Ashley

When interior designer Steven Rasnick and his partner moved to Charlotte from San Francisco, he suspected they’d end up in a modern Uptown apartment in the heart of the city.

hat they discovered, as many do when they move to the South, is that the charm some of Charlotte’s neighborhoods provide can be irresistible. Finding minimalist style in an old charming area however, can present a challenge.

Thankfully, the couple found the perfect Georgian style home in Myers Park that just begged for Rasnick’s creative eye and the result is nothing short of an impeccable use of minimalist style. We just had to explore this house, and this designer, further.

UH: You come from progressive San Francisco – what drew you to this traditional home and neighborhood in Charlotte?

Homeowners: Originally, we thought about a center city apartment close to work, but nothing was meeting our needs in a home. We fell in love with Myers Park - great location, enchanting streets, beautifully maintained yards and homes, and its magnificent tree canopy. We wanted an older home with character that we could renovate.

UH: Tell us about your San Francisco (SF) residence and how it influenced the design of your home in Charlotte.

Homeowners: Our home in SF was a large urban industrial loft with 20-foot ceilings. We loved our wide-open floor plan and wanted to create that same sense of openness in our Charlotte home.

UH: What did the house look like when you found it?

Homeowners: The house was really lovely; great curb appeal with perfect proportions typical of 1920s Georgian architecture. It was simple, symmetrical and unadorned with all brick construction, a screened porch and the original detached two-car garage. Interiors were period appropriate with intimate rooms, great moldings and panel detail.

UH: Tells us about the renovation process.

Homeowners: We knew we wanted to open up the downstairs and fortunately there were no structural barriers to prevent that. We widened and heightened all existing doorways to give a more soaring quality to all the rooms. We converted the side porch to a sunroom, took out a full bath off the family room and added a wall of French doors that opened onto a new colonnaded back porch. We added a mudroom off of the new kitchen and created a powder room under the staircase by combining a closet with the back of the butler’s pantry. We also added a second master suite. april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 15

16 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 17

18 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

To see all of the photos from this home, visit www.urbanhomemagazine.com.

april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 19

UH: How long did the remodel take place?

Homeowners: It took just over a year to complete and we couldn’t live in it for the first 10 months. We replaced all the wood floors on the first floor, built interior closet systems and reconfigured the center hall staircase. We balanced and re-hung all the old doors and replaced all the brass hardware.

around a double-sided gas fireplace. The fireplace was built in Canada and is distinguished by a 36-inch narrow ribbon of fire. I wanted to enjoy the fire both from the bathroom and the bedroom, so I designed a deep, Japanese soaking tub with a wide deck and angled back for comfort that faces the fireplace cabinet. I also designed the bedroomside maple fireplace cabinet.

UH: How do you create minimalist style without the house looking cold?

Homeowners: Most of our furniture and lighting is contemporary and the minimal styling of it is a perfect counterweight to the more substantial period details of the house - tall baseboards, crown moldings, panel doors and ornate staircase accents. Warmth is added with rich stained floors, vibrant art and textured rugs.

UH: What are your favorite local design resources?

Homeowners: My local go-to stores are places like Mrs. Howard, Luxe, BD Jeffries, Metro, Design Within Reach, Stark Carpet, Cotswold Marketplace and the DOMA Gallery.v

UH: How have you used art to decorate?

Homeowners: All the art is original. For us, art is a preeminent consideration when looking for a new home. I think art is what anchors your home - no matter where you move to - it remains the one true constant. It makes your house comfortable in the most important way.

UH: Tell us about the master bath.

Homeowners: We designed the new master suite at the top of the stairs

20 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

Resources

BD Jeffries..........................................704-364-4004...................................www.bdjeffries.com Cotswold Marketplace........................704-365-3331.................www.cotswoldmarketplace.com Design Within Reach..........................704-365-6514............................................www.dwr.com Luxe..................................................704-370-2644...................... www.luxehomecouture.com Metro................................................704-375-4563........................www.metroformodern.com Mrs. Howard......................................704-376-8050.......www.mrshowardpersonalshopper.com Stark Carpet.......................................704-588-8842................................www.starkcarpet.com Steven Rasnick Interior Design............704-733-9074

remodels | Custom Homes | Outdoor living | Kitchens | Baths | Additions

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704.506-7806 | www.fallingwaterpools.com

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Come check out what’s new “Off the Truck” every week!

South End Furniture District: 2905 Griffith Street, Charlotte

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outdoor n Trends

Beyond the

Back Porch

By Nancy Atkinson

Closet and Storage Concepts

Gone are the days when just a charcoal grill and lawn chairs suffice. Outdoor living rooms are the new essential for American homeowners and it’s not only for high-end custom homes. They are being built into moderate spec houses and added in the renovations of existing homes. It seems everyone recognizes the benefits of having a backyard sanctuary.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey for the second quarter of 2011 found a significant increase in requests for outdoor living spaces. Even with consumers scaling back their wish lists, investing in outdoor living spaces has become a major part of home remodeling as families travel less and instead spend more on outdoor entertaining and family time at home.

While this can mean a high-concept kitchen with a great room attached and amenities that rival indoor furnishings (surround sound, flat screen televisions and fashionable furniture), the outdoor room doesn’t have to be extravagant. A stylish outdoor living area can be created within any budget.

We spoke with Charlotte’s design experts to learn their recommendations for creating The Containeran Store outdoor living space that can increase your

24 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

home’s footprint and give you a great escape that’s as close as your own backyard.

Certified landscape designer Ashleigh Geremia says creating outdoor living rooms is her passion. She has had the opportunity to create many in her role as a designer with DeSignia in Charlotte. As a plant specialist with a degree in horticulture, it is natural for Ashleigh to prioritize plants, or softscapes, in the outdoor living room. She also designs pools, patios and other hardscapes that define the space.

Ashleigh shares her top five elements for a successful outdoor living area: Landscape.

“Plantings (softscapes) are an essential element to outdoor design,” says Ashleigh, who explains that it’s easy to get caught up in hardscapes like fireplaces, pools or patios and forget that being in nature is the true beauty of an outdoor room. “First and foremost we need seasonal color and the beauty of plants. Without the plants you may as well be indoors.”

Ashleigh’s favorite plantings for the outdoor living space include evergreens, which she calls the backbones of the outdoor living area and ornamental grasses. “No plant compares to orAll images courtesy of American Society of Landscape Architects.

april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 25

namental grasses,” she says. “The blooms, or plumes, are majestic and create a graceful billowing aesthetic when blowing in the wind.”

Ashleigh also loves working with our classic southern plants. “Bursting color from Azaleas in the spring, Hydrangeas that bloom in the summer and Camellias with their winter blooms are essentials,” she says.

“They are proven southern performers, so they are low maintenance and give us beautiful color.”

Patio “Whether you do pavers or natural stone, you need somewhere to entertain that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. With the array of pavers available today there is something to please everyone’s taste as well as match the architecture of their home,” says Ashleigh.

Fire “You need a fireplace, fire pit, grill or pizza oven — something to entertain with,” says Ashleigh. She says built-in outdoor grills and pizza ovens are not just for custom, high-end homes. “These features are attainable and we’re building them in all types of homes.”

Water “A water feature of some sort helps set a peaceful mood,” she says.

“The soothing sound of bubbling water or a trickling waterfall creates a relaxing environment that is the perfect place to unwind after a hectic day at work.”

Lawn “A little bit of green goes a long way,” says Ashleigh. “There is a big difference when your outdoor living area is offset by turf even if it is a small area of turf. A green lawn brightens the atmosphere and broadens the horizon.”

Create An Extension of Your Home John DiFiore, President and project manager at Fun Outdoor Living, sees the outdoor living area as an extension of the home. “I like to design the area to meet the architectural characteristics of the home,” explains John. “It should never look like an afterthought or an add-on.

It should flow seamlessly from the inside of the home to the outside.”

John also adds that while you should strive to make your outdoor living area fun and integrated, it’s also important to make it functional.

He says there are three steps he typically follows when considering an outdoor project for a client. “First, I consider the specific needs of the homeowner,” says John. “What do they like to do? How active are they?”

“I also like to identify their long-term goals in an outdoor area so that we can build an infrastructure that allows us to add on to the space in phases if they want. If the client needs a satellite or a full kitchen, we can add structures that make entertaining outside as comfortable as using your kitchen inside.”

Furnishing Your Outdoor Living Area Of course you’ll need somewhere to sit in your outdoor living room.

Furnishing your outdoor living area can mean fashionable furniture, accessories and rugs.

Regina Poshkus of Summer Classics in Charlotte says that choosing durable fabrics doesn’t necessarily limit your selection. She recommends Sunbrella, a high performance outdoor fabric that comes in hundreds of colors and patterns.

26 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

“Look for furniture made with N-Dura resin, wrought aluminum and cast aluminum frames that withstand the toughest elements,” Regina says.

“And don’t be afraid to ask an expert. We make house-calls to help clients plan their outdoor living spaces and teach them how to care for their outdoor furniture.”

Elements Of Outdoor Living

• Plantings Add Ambience With Lighting • Patio Whether your entertaining during the day or the evening, outdoor • Fire & Water lighting can add an atmosphere • Lawn that’s warm and inviting. Robert • Furniture Fortney from Lighthouse Landscape Lighting suggests looking at • Fun Accessories lighting additions that meet the • Lighting specific needs of your outdoor living lifestyle. “With more people doing “stay-cations”, the back yard has truly become an outdoor living area,” explains Robert. “There is nothing more inviting than a warmly and properly lit home.”v

Resources

American Society of Landscape Architects.............................................................www.asla.org Archadeck..........................................704-944-1350.................www.archadeckofcharlotte.com Biggers Landscaping..........................704-888-4789.......................www.biggerslandscape.com Carolina Pool King..............................704-271-9702........................www.carolinapoolking.com Custom Land Design...........................704-201-0917......................www.customlanddesign.com DeSignia Landscape...........................704-494-8877....................www.DeSigniaLandscape.com Falling Water Pools............................704-506-7806...................... www.fallingwaterpools.com Firehouse Casual Living Store.............704-598-8787.....................................www.fhcasual.com Fun Outdoor Living.............................704-684-1203....................... www.funoutdoorliving.com Hearth & Patio...................................704-909-2420.................... www.thehearthandpatio.com Lighthouse Landscape Lighting..........704-970-9274......www.charlotte.lightsbylighthouse.com Morgan Landscape Company..............705-588-2292............. www.morganlandscapegroup.com Oasis Pools.........................................704-542-5300............................www.oasispoolsplus.com Overstream........................................704-226-8836............................www.overstreaminc.com Pools By Design..................................704-333-7446.............................www.poolbydesign.com Summer Classics.................................704-372-0095.......................... www.summerclassics.com Sunmar Construction..........................704-930-1250...................www.sunmarconstruction.com The Stone Man...................................704-616-7948.......................... www.stonemanrocks.com Wilson’s Natural Landscaping.............704-888-4635...........................www.wilsonsnatural.com

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Charlotte’s leading outdoor

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alternative

Garden n Trends

The

by Anne Marie Ashley

gardener

Wikipedia defines urban gardening as “the production, functional use and impact of horticultural crops under urban conditions.” Melinda Myers, a nationally known gardening expert and author of over 30 gardening books says, “When I consider urban gardening, I think of limited planting space with often harsh conditions from pollution, traffic, people, salt and construction.”

Dr. Patrick Blanc, world-renowned French botanist and inventor of vertical gardening, has said that since more people are living in populated towns, they long for a connection with nature. Vertical gardening provides that connection.

Vertical gardening, green walls and living walls as they’re sometimes called, are structures that bring gardening “up”. It’s a space-saving strategy, often used in conjunction with urban gardening, that includes growing greenery, vines and sometimes plants up through supports and trellises on a fence or wall.

Many people opt for these types of gardening to save space or to beautify, but Melinda says that urban gardening can also impact a person’s health and community. “Urban gardening can have a very positive impact on the individual and the community – individually by reducing stress and lowering blood pressure, environmentally by cleaning the air and storm water.”

Meyers also comments that edibles grown in vertical gardens are often found to be less disease-ridden because better light and air penetration means healthier plants and green walls are showing energy savings as well. With tools now readily available for urban and vertical gardening, it’s easy for beginning or avid gardeners to create a lush retreat in even the most limiting environments.v For more information on vertical gardening and Dr. Patrick Blanc, visit www.verticalgardenpatrickblanc.com. For more information on Melinda Myers, gardening tips or to purchase her books, visit www.melindamyers.com.

30 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

Images courtesy of www.verticalgardenpatrickblanc.com.

why hire

A landscape

Architect

by Anne Marie Ashley

It’s springtime, which means many of us will be planting flowers, tending to new growth or planning to renovate the look of our yards all-together. Realtors estimate homeowners can add as much as 15 percent to their home value with a well-landscaped yard. In a currently stale market, the time investment may just be worth the return on your home.

It can seem daunting to design, coordinate and implement a landscaping master plan, but luckily there are experts who make the project easy — and yes — even enjoyable. We spoke to Nancy Somerville, CEO of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and the local Charlotte landscape designers at DeSignia to find out how landscape architects can help create an outdoor space that’s beautiful and functional.

How Can a Landscape Architect Help Homeowners?

“Unlike interior design,” explains Designia, “landscape design will grow and change over time, turning the project into an art piece that you can enjoy as it evolves.” Hiring a professional landscaper means they can advise homeowners on the best flora and greenery for the terrain, especially since every home’s terrain is completely different. “The most important thing professional landscapers bring to homeowners is being able to look at the space in a comprehensive way,” says Nancy Somerville. “They can see what’s possible, which means that you are targeting your funds and getting the most value.”

What Can Homeowners Expect from a Landscape Architect?

Whether you go with a firm or an individual, landscapers offer a range of possible services from drawing up a master plan, contracting the work, overseeing and maintenance to consulting on project basis.

In any case, you can expect a wealth of knowledge on things like appropriate vegetation, drainage considerations, grading, soils and lighting. “The knowledge they provide is truly critical in planning,” explains Somerville. “A great landscaper will provide solutions to any problems homeowners experience in their outdoor space.”

What Questions Should be Asked?

It’s important to interview several landscapers and find the one that fits best with the homeowner. Organizations like ASLA provide info on local resources on their website or you can go on recommendations.

Somerville suggests looking through their portfolio to see if their work

32 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

appeals to you. Ask how they intend to solve problems specific to your space, what some native plants might be and if they’ll work in your yard.

What Should Homeowners Expect to Pay for Landscape Design?

If homeowners are honest about what they can afford and expect, most landscapers will identify what can feasibly get done within your budget. Somerville suggests it’s smart to invest 5-10 percent of your home’s value into landscaping. “As a rule of thumb, anything that can raise your home’s value more than 10 percent is worth the investment.”

DeSignia adds, “You set the budget here, we work our hardest to give you the very best service and design within that parameter.”v

Resources

American Society of Landscape Architects.............................................................www.asla.org Biggers Landscaping..........................704-888-4789.......................www.biggerslandscape.com Custom Land Design...........................704-201-0917......................www.customlanddesign.com DeSignia Landscape...........................704-494-8877..................... www.designialandscape.com Morgan Landscape.............................705-588-2292............. www.morganlandscapegroup.com Wilson’s Natural Landscaping.............704-888-4635...........................www.wilsonsnatural.com

Images courtesy of American Society of Landscape Architects.

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C r e a t i v i t y

Outside

bloom Beauty In All year

by Dana W. Todd

Living in a city like Charlotte, blooming plants can provide year round interest to your landscape. Morgan Landscape Group, who works to provide continuous color throughout the seasons for its clients, says color is key to making your yard an inviting environment and a stunning statement in the neighborhood. Color distinguishes your landscape from every other home on the block.

With proper planting and placement in April and May, colors will bloom endlessly throughout the springtime. Abundant pops of pink color from Okame Cherry trees sprinkled throughout city streets and landscapes around town begin the show. Later, add color interest with white-blooming Yoshino cherry trees, dogwood trees, and Eastern Redbuds. Masses of azaleas planted throughout sections of your yard create a magnificent show of vibrant color as well. Spring-blooming hydrangeas offer impressive flower balls, while daffodil and tulip bulbs bursting through the foliage of other plants add punch.

“Add even more intense bursts of color and enliven outdoor spaces with seasonal annuals at entryways and in window boxes and planters on patios and porches,” says Mark Morgan of Morgan Landscape Group. They suggest considering impatiens, begonias, petunias, coleus, coneflowers, salvia, zinnia, and dahlias.

Spring is the season of excitement when it comes to gardening and landscaping, so there’s no better time than now to invest in colorful pe-

rennials and annuals that will repay you for your time and money with a healthy return of bountiful color.

When spring gives way to the unbearable heat of summer, you can still enjoy the reds and pinks of Knock Out® roses and Crape Myrtles in full vibrant bloom while hanging out around the backyard pool.

Imagine looking out over your property to a scene of butterflies and hummingbirds fluttering around purple, pink or red Butterfly Bushes.

During the fall and winter months, the cold weather makes it hard to get excited about being outside. However, blooming Camellia Japonica feels at home during the colder season and is beautiful planted within eyesight of a glowing warm fire pit or outdoor fireplace. A mass of Lenten rose covering the ground throughout a large bedded area is the perfect splash of softness and color in an otherwise bleak and bare environment. As winter comes to an end, the cycle begins again with daffodil bulbs popping up around the yard.

Whatever the season, Charlotte’s climate continually offers the opportunity to landscape your property with year round interest and color. v

For more information on Morgan Landscape Group, visit www.morganlandscapegroup.com or call 704-588-2292. april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 35

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Real Estate

Charlotte’s New

bright spot

38 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

“What makes the master plan of this evolving community unique is its emphasis on nature and the pursuit of a healthy, balanced and full life. The 100-acre Brightwalk footprint has an extensive parks and trail system which will link to the Irwin Creek Greenway and Carolina Thread Trail.”

Creativity rules at a new neighborhood just a mile from Uptown Charlotte. It’s called Brightwalk and has been crafted with heart, soul and extreme common sense by some of the region’s brightest thinkers and doers in real estate development, landscape architecture, and urban planning. The homes are designed for today’s new economy where “supersize” has given way to a quest for “just-the-right-size”.

Construction has begun, with a model set to open in April.

What makes the masterplan of this evolving community unique is its emphasis on nature and the pursuit of a full, balanced and healthy life. The 100-acre Brightwalk footprint has an extensive parks and trail system which will link to the Irwin Creek Greenway and Carolina Thread Trail. Walking, running and cycling trails, pocket parks, a progressive new child development center and an aquatic center are also part of the mix.

Brightwalk anchors Charlotte’s North End along the “Applied Innovation Corridor” as designated in the 2020 Vision Plan for Center City. In addition to its park-centric setting, innovative aspects of Brightwalk include the community’s plan for public art in numerous “bright spots” and a bike loop being developed in conjunction with the Charlotte cycling community. Connection to transit, the nearby NC Music Factory and the many restaurants, professional sports and cultural happenings of Uptown Charlotte are other benefits of the Brightwalk setting.

The homes at Brightwalk will be built by Standard Pacific Homes, an accomplished national builder with a reputation for quality design and customer service. Construction fulfills the green vision of the community with styling and materials that are energy efficient and enduring. Single-family homes start in the low $160s and come with nine-foot ceilings on the main level, granite countertops and James Hardie color-plus siding. Townhomes will have similar finishes and will range from the $120s to $150s initially.

Brightwalk’s homes have been specially designed for the community and will meet the latest Energy Star 3.0 requirements. “The designs reflect the demands of in-town buyers for homes that are open, livable and practical,” says Elliot Mann, Charlotte division president for Standard Pacific Homes. “There’s a very fresh, new urban appeal to the architecture.”

Brightwalk is a perfect environment for anyone who wants to live in a spirit of creativity and well-being. It’s for people who want something more in a less-than-perfect economic reality. More affordable, with less financial pressure. Less upkeep and more joy. More free time for playing in the park, hiking and cycling, tending the garden and turning neighbors into friends. Brightwalk is for living on purpose.v For more information, please visit www.brightwalkcharlotte.com or call them at 704-591-0239. april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 39

NO BUGS. NO BITES. NO KIDDING.

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$50 OFF

Full Season Mosquito Control Protection every 3 weeks Call Today 704-821-0805 Or visit Charlotte.MosquitoSquad.com

Experience Matters, Since 2004 First time customers only. Limit one coupon per property. Not valid with other offers. Expires May 1, 2012.

“Keeping Charlotte Green”

Landscape and lighting installed by the Morgan Landscape Group.

Design | Installation | Outdoor Living | Maintenance

www.morganlandscapegroup.com • 704.588.2292

essentials

new products

decorating 1.

Circus Cases Set of 6 This set of six leather cases is bright and colorful, making it a perfect piece to add to any playroom, kids room or sunroom. Clayton Gray Home,www.claytongrayhome.com.

2.

Original Art Piece “Arabesque” “Arabesque” is an exclusive and original work of art from the AGA studio in Los Angeles and is available here in Charlotte at By Design, www.bydesignfurniture.com.

3.

Metropolitan Chair and Ottoman Working with Design Within Reach for more than a decade, Jeffrey Bernett created the Metropolitan, an inviting swivel armchair and ottoman. Its high back is the perfect mix of Italian sophistication and comfort, while the neck rest is held in place with magnets to make it adjustable for people of all heights. Made in Italy. Design Within Reach, www.dwr.com.

4.

Wayeland Gregory Turquoise Lava Vase Taking its cue from the mesmerizing movement of lava, this handmade ceramic vase is artfully adorned with 22k gold glaze. Part of the debut collection of authentic re-editions from prolific sculptor Waylande Gregory, this handmade piece is inspired by a treasure trove of forgotten pieces that Gregory’s nephew, discovered in the basement of his uncle’s estate.

Luxe, www.luxehomecouture.com.

5.

Eloise Two-Drawer Chest The Eloise two-drawer chest is a classic piece straight from the Louis XVII era. Expertly crafted with beautiful simple lines and understated carvings, Eloise is comfortable in any setting. The two drawers are set in an elegant frame and feature antique style brass feet and handles. Fabulous & Baroque, www.fabulousandbaroque.com.

6.

Meri Drum Chandelier This cast pierced resin chandelier from Oly Studio is a perfect accent for any room in the house. Comes with canopy and 3-foot chain.

Oly Studio, www.olystudio.com.

design find

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STICKLEY. BUILT FOR LIFE. Handcrafted furniture, made in the USA, to last for generations.

Discover the world’s finest furniture from Stickley, John Widdicomb, Lexington, Marge Carson, Hickory White, Nichols & Stone, Fine Furniture Design and other famous makers. Our talented staff, with complimentary design services, is ready to assist you with beautiful inspirations for your home.

7215 Smith Corners Blvd. (I-77 and Harris Blvd.), Charlotte stickleyaudi.com

•

704.597.0718

contributing editor

Beth Keim

room service

Loft Meets Ranch

How do you bring the “loft” look into your ranch-style home in the ‘burbs? With no exposed pipes, 14-foot ceilings or interior concrete floors or walls, it seems impossible to incorporate.

I was presented with this challenge when working with my clients, the Carons. While a home on a quiet street with a large back yard was a must for this family of five, the couple longed for the look and feel of their loft days in the city. Paula Caron, a photographer, was drawn to clean lines and minimalistic furnishings with a slight eclectic dash. Dan Caron prefers a much more industrial aesthetic.

They asked for a “less cluttered, no-fuss, needto-decompress” look and I was up for the challenge.

The Caron’s had an empty living room and dining room to work with, which helped. No empire sofa to contend with, no oriental rugs. I started with a color scheme of cool colors including whites, grays and black with a touch of teal. Furnishings for this look are generally modern with straight lines, with a dose of metal and worn wood, so I chose a long grey sofa with a pair of white chairs. These pieces were perfect for our industrial color palette, yet in keeping with the style of house. The coffee table looked very “warehouse” with its wood top and metal wheels and the rug added the illusion of a concrete floor.

When creating a loft or industrial feel, white walls are a must. Paula’s photography really popped and the unique furnishings really stood out. The result was so fresh and modern, definitely the look we were going for. Large art is a key ingredient in the look and feel of a loft space, so we did a custom piece over the sofa, adding a splash of color and a “wall paper” piece between the chairs in black and white.

The Caron’s had no need for a formal dining room, so we decided this space was best used as a playroom and workspace. A custom desk, open floor plan, chalkboard paint and storage make this room fun and functional. By carrying the living space further into the dining area, we achieved the look of open space, unifying the décor throughout.

As we moved into the kitchen, breakfast room and den, I wanted to continue the color palette and mix of industrial-modern. We freshened up cabinets and walls and added Mid-Century Modern furniture. The breakfast room now showcases beautiful windows with painted black frames against white walls. A teal graphic wallpaper clings to the ceiling, adding drama as well as color cohesion. Bench seats replace chairs and a beautiful pop of interesting light finishes the look.

My favorite motto is “there are no rules.” Your home, whatever exterior style it may be, can take you to an entirely new place when you walk in the door.v Beth Keim is the owner of Lucy and Company, a full-service interior design firm located at 1009 East Boulevard. For more information visit www.lucyandcompany.com or call 704-342-6655.

44

Urban Home Charlotte

April/May 2012

april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 45

“still the Best Brunch in Charlotte”

Come try our seasonal menu

— Charlotte Magazine

Lunch | Dinner | Brunch Come in Mon. through Wed. 5pm-7pm and receive a

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Wood & Iron Entryways | Leaded Glass | Design & Installation

the Looking Glass INC.

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www.bydesignfurniture.com CHARLOTTE: 2130 South Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28203 704-342-4600 PINEVILLE: 11501 Carolina Pl. Pkwy.

Pineville, NC 28134 704-542-8803

ATLANTA • NORCROSS • CHARLOTTE • PINEVILLE • CHERRY HILL • MARLBORO

Lifestyles

rule

Nature Neutrals

By Dana W. Todd

The year of nature in interior design is 2012. Inspired by nature’s color palette, today’s modern homes showcase neutral backdrops extending beyond the usual cream and beige and embrace instead a range of soft pastels and shots of vibrant colors reminiscent of nature.

In answer to recent design trends, Stark Carpet has introduced two new rug collections incorporating natural motifs and soft neutrals in sumptuous fibers. The newest rug collections – Samsun and Noor – are joined by an exclusive Jocelyn Warner Collection of fabrics and wallcoverings.

Inspired by antique Ikat textile patterns of Central Asia, the Samsun Collection’s hand-knotted rugs are infused with silvery, iridescent colors such as icy grey-green over fields of grey and ivory. Its antique

48 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

the home

influence is modernized with intuitively natural colourways. The rugs’ content fibers make them luxurious — some are 100-percent silk and others are silk-viscose blends – and the texture and design create movement for the eye.

The Darius Noor Collection of rugs, available in standard and custom sizes and colors, also incorporates Central Asian influences through its design motifs, but contains richer, earthier colourways.

Both of these collections are inspired by the Ikat patterns of Central Asia. Ikat designs traditionally use bright colors, but Stark takes them in a new color direction with subdued tones.

Both rug collections are urban and edgy with a sophisticated flavor and provide an earthy intimacy through deep, natural colorings and

“Both rug collections are urban and edgy with a sophisticated flavor. They provide an earthy intimacy through deep, natural colorings and multiple levels of fiber and images.”

multiple levels of fiber and images. In addition, Stark carries Ikatpatterned rugs in more traditional vibrant colors in the Passport Collection by Charlotte Moss.

In keeping with the earthy vibe, Stark Carpet presents the UKbased Jocelyn Warner Collection of 100-percent linen fabrics and wallcoverings in four patterns – Blossom, Flora, Leaf and Tree Tops – each available in at least three or four natural colourways. The Blossom fabrics reference the 1950s, with blossoming petals on three layers of color tone. Flora fabrics draw inspiration from historical botanical prints with highlights of metallic gold and silver on neutral backgrounds. Leaf, appropriate for traditional and contemporary interiors, replicates metallic gold eucalyptus leaves on soft climbing branches in

a repeating classic ogee pattern. A surprise turquoise-gold colourway slightly departs from the muted palette, but still represents the beauty of sky and sun. A robinia tree growing in designer Jocelyn Warner’s backyard is the inspiration for the Tree Tops pattern, which mimics a bird’s-eye view through tree branches.

With all of these natural, earth inspired tones in everything from rugs and carpets to wallcoverings and fabrics from Stark, your home can become at one with nature.v The new collections are available at Stark Carpet Design Center and Outlet at 11415 Granite Street, Suite A. Call 704-588-8842 or visit www.starkcarpet.com for sample images.

april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 49

Designer Spotlight: ERIC ENNIS

by Anne Marie Ashley

WHY THE ROOM WORKS

We asked Eric Ennis, designer at The Furniture Connector in Charlotte, to give us the rundown on one of his most recently designed client spaces. Here, he explains why this space works so well and outlines some of the key design elements he used to create it.

“When any client approaches me to create a design for them, I always ask what the overall goal and feel for the room will be. Betsy Mapes in Charlotte wanted to create a music room that she and her family could enjoy and utilize to create music together. She wanted a Mid-Century Modern style mixed in with her family’s more traditional pieces.

This room works well because of the balance between old and new. One of the main focal points of the room is her family’s piano, which we paired with a

Facet Rug in Charcoal Dwell Studio, www.dwellstudio.com.

Chester Sofa in Dark Ash. Dwell Studio, www.dwellstudio.com.

50 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

modern wood mirror by Global Views provided by The Furniture Connector. The wood tones from the mirror complement the piano and allow all of the other pieces of furniture to stand out independently.

Betsy wanted to infuse the room with history, so we created a photo wall filled with photos from multiple generations and of family treasures. The darker wall color really allowed a centerpiece like this to pop. Keeping the lines of the upholstery clean while having a Mid-Century undertone allows everything to work happily together.”v

Paint in Sensuous Gray and Perfect Griege.

Sherwin Williams, www.sherwin-williams.com.

Resources

The Furniture Connector.....................704-507-9023.............................www.thefurnitureconnector.com

Industrial Wooden Mirror Global Views, www.globalviews.com.

Orso Chair in Shifted Stripe-Citrine.

Dwell Studio, www.dwellstudio.com.

Metal drum end tables.

Regina Andrew, www.reginaandrew.com.

Arbor

Construction Group

We make your vision a reality (704) 542-5833 | info@arborcg.com | www.arborconstructiongroup.com

renovations | kitchens | baths | additions | outdoor living | design

bedroom n Trends

bedroom romancing the

By Nancy Atkinson

We all dream of having a beautiful bedroom, but design

Closet and Storage Concepts

experts say the master bedroom is often overlooked when it’s time to redecorate, in exchange for high-traffic areas like the kitchen and den.

Charlotte interior designers Laura Casey, Laura Fitch and Will Smith tell us why the master bedroom deserves attention and share their suggestions on how to make it a haven of personal space.

The Container Store

52 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

Images courtesy of Bella Notte Linens, Lucy & Co. (Ashley Goodwin Photography), Baker Furniture, Kohler Interiors and Sarah Fisher Designs.

De-clutter Laura Casey, owner of Laura Casey Interiors in Charlotte, says a well-designed master bedroom is a sign we are taking care of ourselves as adults.

“The master bedroom should be a retreat from our hectic lives,” says Casey. “A place for reading, marriage, dressing and personal things.” She emphasizes that clutter should be banned from the bedroom to keep it peaceful and relaxing.

Laura Fitch, owner of Bedside Manor luxury bedding store in Charlotte, agrees the bedroom should be a sanctuary.

“An organized room is a peaceful room,” she says. “As the first and last place we see in our day, the bedroom should be a place where you can retreat, regroup and recharge your soul.”

niture. “Purchase furniture that is the right size for the walls and ceiling height.” She recommends measuring out the footprint of the furniture with blue painter’s tape before you buy to be sure the furniture’s proportions are right for the room.

Bedding The experts agree that changing your bedding is one of the easiest ways to refresh the room.

Fitch says men and women can find harmony in the bedroom with bedding that balances masculine and feminine. “Try a clean, simple duvet on the bed and add feminine touches with embroidered sheets and throw pillows,” she suggests.

Interior designer and owner of Interior Motives, Will Smith advises his clients to change the duvet throughout the year to give the room a fresh perspective.

Scent To complete the transformation, Laura Fitch suggests adding a scent.

“Fresh flowers or candles by the bed are nice,” she says. “Or use a diffuser in the room with a fresh scent like Antica Farmastica’s Aria to achieve a peaceful feeling.”v

Furniture As for furniture, Will says the bedroom should meet your personal needs and not fit some traditional model of what a bedroom should be. “You do not have to settle for the traditional route of bed, dresser, mirror and two nightstands,” he says. “Furnish the room with things you love.”

Laura Casey warns against crowding the bedroom with oversized fur-

MasterYour Bedroom

Color Wall color is another easy way to change your bedroom. Will encourages his clients to experiment with color. “The bedroom is a place where you can use a color you absolutely love because it’s your own special place,” he says.

Laura Casey leans toward serene colors in the bedroom. Color psychology studies agree — cool shades of blues, greens and purples are relaxing while whites are tranquil.

Resources

Bedside Manor...................................704-442-4006............................www.bedsidemanor.com

By Design...........................................704-342-4600......................www.bydesignfurniture.com City Supply.........................................704-347-2489.................... www.citysupplycharlotte.com Classic Attic........................................704-521-3750...................................www.classicattic.biz Cottage Chic.......................................704-375-1888............................. www.chicgoodness.com High Cotton Home..............................704-335-1220 Laura Casey Interiors..........................704-625-0422.................... www.lauracaseyinteriors.com Lucy & Co...........................................704-342-6655........................www.lucyandcompany.com Stark Carpet.......................................704-588-8842................................www.starkcarpet.com Stickley Furniture...............................704-597-0718............................... www.stickleyaudi.com The Furniture Connector.....................704-523-3163............... www.thefurnitureconnector.com Will Smith..........................................704-756-8424............................www.interiormotives.ws

De-clutter

Color

Scale

Scent

Remove kids’ toys, laundry and stacks of newspapers.

A big rug adds comfort. Make sure furniture is sized for the room.

Serene colors add to peaceful nights.

Bedding

Refresh your room with pretty bedding. Spend a little more for luxe sheets.

Add a diffuser with a soft scent to the room. april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 53

Introducing

1232 East Boulevard

|

704.375.1888

|

chicgoodness.com

Your dream is our reality.

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Remodel or New Construc tion

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Visit our new South End showroom and design center conveniently located off I-77 and South Boulevard

704-812-1201

after

www.e3cabinets.com

A Story of Changing Space

These days the only place left where you have control is your home. It should reflect the person that you are and the life style you live. When it does, you have a space you feel comfortable in because it identifies with you. The home should be the place you can escape to when you feel frustrated from the stresses in life.

For a lot of people a frustrating day outside the home is followed by a frustrating evening in the home. There is something about their home that is not working for the way they live. The layout is wrong, the view is not right, the size is too small or the room is too loud and so on.

Something Has to Give

My approach as a builder is to understand you and the desires you have for your home. Only then can we design and build solutions into your home spaces that will function accordingly.

When you ask a builder what he does for a living does he reply with, “I build and remodel homes”? That’s the same thinking that built your house the way it is already.

When you ask me what I do for a living my response is, “I change people’s space for the way they live”. Because for me, it’s not just about the house…. it’s about you.

Call today to begin the experience of feeling understood. 704-281-8496 For more of the story:

Yo u r D e s i gn/Bu i l d Fi r m

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contributing editor

Trent Haston

Small spaces in detached structures equal big opportunities for many homeowners. The addition of usable living space is a great way to increase your resale value immediately and adds functionality to boot. This high-end project has weathered – and survived – the recession. Why? Likely, because parents and children are moving back home in a slow economy or because many business owners find it more feasible to add a home office in lieu of renting office space.

A detached structure should be developed with two goals in mind — design and usability. Details like stone facades and fixtures, windows and doors all play a role in matching the house’s look to the structure. Also, consider the functionality - maybe you need another bath, laundry room or more parking space.

building a better home

Added Value, Added Dimension

58

Urban Home Charlotte

April/May 2012

When considering purposes and types of detached structures, remember that a multi-use space can provide the ideal scenario for your home’s needs.

For example, consider creating a nice garage with a guest suite above or a pool house that doubles as an entertainment center or outside bar.

Many people also opt to position their detached “mini house”, as they’re sometimes called, at the end of a driveway, giving the residence an added dimension.

Some common detached spaces: • Garage • Pool house • In-law/guest suite • Additional storage • Party house (indoor/outdoor) • Detached home office

Added Value There are several considerations for enhancements that add valuable home space without taking up precious inhome square footage. A few to think about include adding a full bath or kitchenette or creating a detached area complete with HVAC heating/cooling and heated floors. Think of a modern garage with a TV mounted on the wall, creating a multi-use space. Park cars in the garage and pull them out to entertain. You can also design a structure as a poolside cabana with a contemporary garage look street-side and incorporate heated floors for winter gatherings.

When designing a detached structure, make sure it matches the house.

Avoid adding a vinyl garage to a lovely brick home, for example, quickly diminishing the aesthetics. The goal is to enhance the home’s architecture and curb appeal, while adding functionality.

How to Get Started?

A cohesive team and proper planning is important from day one. The team should include the homeowner, designer/architects and the builder. Keep your timeframe in mind, remembering that a garage or mini house typically will take six to eight months to complete, from start to finish.

Preliminary Considerations: • Make product selections such as doors, windows, plumbing fixtures, garage doors, flooring and roofing so the builder can deliver an all-inclusive cost.

• Check county and HOA restrictions • Pay attention to grading and try to prevent potential run-off drainage problems and future muddy areas before breaking ground.

Get on the right track to developing, enjoying and making use of a functional detached structure on your property.v

Trent Haston is CEO of Andrew Roby and has spent many years in project management, focusing on style and craftsmanship for custom home projects. For more information call 704-334-5477 or visit www.andrewroby.com.

april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 59

vd.

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R

improvements

stone A New

experience

by Ginger Sprinkle

Looking for a wonderful way to kick off the spring season in Charlotte? If you’re a homeowner or professional with thoughts of a tile makeover for your home or clients, you’ll want to visit the Cosentino Center, set to open in April.

This global leader in natural stone, quartz and recycled surfacing will focus on enhancing the kitchen and bath design experience for architects, designers, fabricators, distributors and consumers. More than a showroom, the Cosentino Center is designed to support, promote and educate architects and designers by integrating distribution facilities with product display areas. It also provides meeting spaces for designers to bring clients, classrooms for continuing education and fully functioning kitchens and event space for demonstrations. The center will deliver an interactive environment for architects, designers, distributors and fabricators to view the latest products and design trends. They can earn continuing education credits, attend expert seminars and receive training on new production techniques and innovations.

When visiting the Charlotte center, customers can explore and engage in all aspects of the kitchen and bath design experience – from the material and color section to specification and fabrication. The full portfolio of Cosentino brands will be featured, including Silestone Natural Quartz, ECO by Cosentino recycled surfaces, SenSa® Gran62 Urban Home Charlotte April/May 2012

ite, Scalea Natural Stone, Marlique™ Marble, MURO™ Mosaics and the Prexury™ Collection – a semi-precious stone line handmade by expert craftsmen.

To meet increasing demand for its products, Cosentino opened its first center in Anaheim, CA in September 2010 and quickly followed with showrooms in Phoenix, San Francisco, Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, Orlando and now Charlotte. Additionally, eight more centers are planned to open in 2012 including showrooms in Washington D.C., Cincinnati, San Francisco, Minneapolis, Austin, Portland, St. Louis and Denver.

“As Cosentino’s presence continues to grow in North America, it’s imperative to provide the resources and support that architects and designers need to grow their businesses and be successful,” says Lorenzo Marquez, vice president of marketing for Cosentino North America.

“That goal is the guiding vision behind the Cosentino Center concept.”

As an added bonus, homeowners also can partake in and benefit from this innovative experience.v The new Cosentino Center is located in Charlotte at 11435 Granite Street, Suite B. For more information, visit www.cosentinonorthamerica.com or call 704-504-1538. Silestone quartz is available nationally in over 65 colors and offers a 15-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

“When visiting the Charlotte center, customers can explore and engage in all aspects of the kitchen and bath design experience – from the material and color section to specification and fabrication.”

april/May 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 63

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essentials

new products

Kitchen & Bath 1.

Bird Bath Shower Rings Designed by Dennis Cheng, this set of twelve metal shower curtain rings with decorative white molded birds adds fun and funk. Umbra, www.umbra.com.

2.

A New Turn in the South Cookbook Hugh Acheson, renowned chef who combines European flavors with traditional Southern cooking at his Athens, Georgia restaurant Five & Ten, presents a collection of delicious, innovative recipes mouthwateringly photographed by Rinne Allen.

Anthropologie, www.anthropologie.com.

3.

Royal Doulton 1815 Tapas Bowl Set 1815 was the year John Doulton founded his now world-famous pottery.

To commemorate that heritage, Royal Doulton has created the 1815 pattern.

These 11cm Tapas Bowls are rendered in porcelain with a simple, but striking silhouette and subtle clear glaze over.

Royal Doulton, www.royal-doulton.com.

4.

1

2

3

Alegna Laguna Basic All-Wood Bathtub Manufactured in Switzerland and designed by a former yacht design company, the Laguna Basic bathtub’s rectangular external form enables it to be integrated simply into existing bathrooms, which means this wooden-interior tub can easily replace a conventional bathtub without much cost. Alegna, www.alegna.ch.

5.

Ann Sacks Penny Round Mosaic in Mint Starting out as a modest mosaic collection, Savoy has become a powerhouse of design flexibility and value. Savoy is easy to install, thin enough to be used in any construction project and exceptionally well priced. Ann Sacks, www.annsacks.com.

6.

Marimekko Pippurikera Wisteria Bath Towels A concentric doodle plays positivenegative in designer Annika Rimala’s 1963 pattern Pippurikera (“pepper ball”).

Known for larger-than-life imagery and bold colors that reflect the youth culture of the 1960s, Pippurikera is a blossoming standard of Annika Rimala’s iconic work, featured on 100% cotton towels.

Crate & Barrel, www.crateandbarrel.com.

design find

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DAY TRIPPING ASHEville, north Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina It’s called the “Paris of the South” and it’s home to the only castle in America - but Asheville offers an adventure for nearly every enthusiast.

Nestled among the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Asheville is a short drive from Charlotte - but it feels like a world all its own.

What To See

Biltmore Estate An obvious but nonetheless enchanting choice, Biltmore is the Vanderbilt family’s legacy and is the largest residence in the country open to the public. The Festival of Flowers in April and May celebrates spring and truly brings the estate gardens to life.

Brews Cruise Voted Beer City U.S.A three years running means Asheville knows their microbrews! The Brews Cruise was established to allow tourists to sample beer from different breweries every day, Tuesdays –Saturdays.

Downtown Arts Sip coffee at locally owned cafés, check out the 30+ art galleries, jam to live music at a local dive or shop the plethora of unique boutiques.

Where To Shop

Bette The ultimate designer boutique in Asheville, featuring names like

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DVF, Nicole Miller, Citizens, Trina Turk and more.

Blue Spiral 1 Art Gallery This tri-level art gallery specializes in Southeastern fine art and crafts.

Browse over 15,000-square feet of art and any one of 30 exhibitions a year.

Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar Leaf through 60,000 new and used books while sipping on wine, Champagne or sparkling wine – a unique experience for the literary inclined.

The Grove Arcade Opened in 1929, the Grove Arcade has been renovated and modernized to include restaurants and specialty boutiques for all tastes and styles.

Where To Eat

Asheville Food Tours Enjoy a walking tour through downtown and Biltmore Village, tasting food from local restaurants, gourmet food shops and

microbreweries, local farms, bakeries, chocolatiers and dynamic beer and wine lists.

Homegrown “Farm to Table” dining is big in Asheville, where locally grown food is treasured. There are several notable Farm to Table restaurants, but Homegrown is a tourist and local favorite – get “Slow Food Right Quick”.

Where To Stay

Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa Famous for impeccable service and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this fourdiamond resort is on the National Register of Historic Places and one of Travel + Leisure’s Top 5 Spa Resorts in America.

Grand Bohemian This AAA, four-diamond boutique hotel is directly across from Biltmore and revels in its collection of art and music. A Kessler Collection property that’s rustic, luxurious and original.

Images and information courtesy of Explore Asheville. For more information visit www.exploreasheville.com.

first impressions Hardwood and Wrought Iron Entries Specializing in replacement of existing entries and one-of-a-kind designs

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Style GUIDE

EQUAL PARtS

style & Comfort

Melissa G. Lamkin

I live for weekends. On Saturdays I run errands and typically brunch at a favorite spot with friends on Sunday. I’m not one to leave the house looking sloppy or without a specific look, but I still want to be comfortable — I can spend hours in Sleepy Poet or Slate Interiors and uncomfortable shoes or a too-heavy handbag can ruin the fun quickly. My formula for the weekend casual look is equal parts style and comfort. These are the key pieces to master this look.

1. My favorite spring must-have and style staple is the chambray button-down. Hello, J.Crew! I pick you and your Keeper Chambray shirt. www.jcrew.com.

4. When I head to Target, Trader Joe’s or South Park Mall, I know the Rebecca Minkoff East-West Skull Tote is perfect for filling with all of my purchases and finds. www.rebeccaminkoff.com.

2. Skinny Jeans. I live in skinny jeans and I’m in LOVE, love with these Earnest Sewn Esra skinny jeans. Bright and bold - bring on the red or blue, please! www.earnestsewn.com.

5. Comfortable shoes are crucial and Toms ballet flats are beyond adorable. Not to mention, every purchase ensures a child receives a pair of shoes. I especially like the Natalia Linen Flats; the neutral color goes with everything! (And doesn’t compete with my bright jeans and a fun scarf!). www.toms.com.

3. At least one neon item is necessary for spring and I’ll be grabbing a Love Quotes Knotted Tassel Scarf in one of their bright hues — likely from my favorite Charlotte spot, The Pink Hanger.

They are insanely soft, oversized and at only $88, a reasonable cost-per-wear price. www.pinkhangeronline.com.

6. When I see the sun, I’ll be grabbing these Icon Eyewear Half Rim Wayfarer sunglasses. The stripes are too much fun and for $12, I might pick up a few more. www.nordstrom.com.

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Melissa Lamkin is a stylist and writer and has worked with magazines like FHM, Glamour and Lucky. She regularly contributes to local, regional and national publications, as well as consulting with private clients, retail stores and clothing designers. For more information, please visit www.melissalamkin.com or follow her on Twitter, @melissalamkin.

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All images courtesy of retailers.

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VINTAGE

GLAM Melissa’S PICKS 1.

Another local talent is Erin McDermott of Erin McDermott Jewelry. The University of Virginia and Parsons grad left teaching when she doubled her income by making jewels for friends and brides-to-be and turned it into a booming bauble business. A great resource for brides and those looking for custom jewelry. The vintage Skeleton Key Necklace makes a statement whether you wear it with a tee shirt or your favorite little black dress. www.erinmcdermott.com

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One of the most fabulous Myers Park moms we know, Kristin Morris of Kristin Morris jewelry, has perfected pairing vintage chains, metals and brooches with gorgeous earrings, necklaces, cuffs and more. Ask a member of her cult following and you’ll find out just how coveted her pieces are. Wear a pair of earrings like these Vintage Austria Button and Rhinestone Earrings from her Emerald Hayes collection and you’ll be the center of attention. www.kristinmorris.com

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One visit to the quaint Dilworth storefront and studio of Laura James Jewelry and you’ll find a plethora of reasons to visit repeatedly. She’s received loads of national press — the Today Show, US Weekly and Real Simple — to name a few, and we’re in love with her space and style. The vintage gold tone multi-strand chain bracelet will really bring the party to your arm. www.laurajamesjewelry.com

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Celebs have been spotted dripping in the gorgeous stones and jewels from Irene Neuwirth. And we’ve spotted her, on more than one occasion, at her own trunk show at CAPITOL in SouthPark. Her necklaces, earrings and bracelets are gorgeous, glamorous and perfect for special events and weddings … or even the Red Carpet.

The Rose Cut Diamond Band in Yellow Gold demands attention by being ohso-delicate. www.ireneneuwirth.com

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All images courtesy of retailers.

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