UHM August/September 2012 Issue

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Aug/Sept 2012

CHARLOTTE URBAN

Designs | Lifestyles | Fashions | Improvements

Jim Schmid Photography

Selection, Education, Value & Guidance – Redefined.

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HOME CHARLOTTE URBAN

CONTENTS

august / september 2012 14

Designs | Lifestyles | Fashions | Improvements

30

Reaching 180,000 homes annually

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2012

VOL 12 NO 4

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

36

Editorial Director Tammy Wanchisn

44

72

Writers Nancy Atkinson Dana Todd Anne Marie Ashley Sales Kathleen Hands Art Direction Harriet McDowall PageCreations Photography Jim Schmid Photography www.jimschmid.com Contributing Editors Trent Haston Beth Keim Taylor Richards & Conger Production Administrator Shelley Kemper

trends

Showcase 14 Cityscape

departments Home

Design Trends 28 Rustic Chic

Direct Mail Quad Graphics

Building Trends 30 The New Face of Luxury

Phone 704-332-1504

Remodeling Trends 50 Award Winning Remodels

Fax 704-973-5685 Email: comments@urbanhomemagazine.com Website: www.urbanhomemagazine.com

features improvements 24 Fire Fight

@urbanhomemags

facebook.com/Urban-Home-Magazine

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.�

remodeling

why hire a?

54 Why Hire A Certified Remodeler

48 64

essentials

New Products For Your Kitchen And Bath New Products For Your Home

why the room works 62 Designer Spotlight:

Sarah Catherine Norkum

day tripping 84 High Country, North Carolina

contributing editors

building a better home: trent haston

36 From Ashes to Grandeur

40 Restful Retreat

kitchens & baths

room service: 58 Color Me Bold

44 Next Generation

outdoor living

68 Organic Solutions 72 Backyard Beauty on Every Level

lifestyle

76 Diamond Buying: Caveat Emptor

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.

10 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

beth keim

style guide: taylor richards & conger

80 TRC Style

trc picks 82 Fall Essentials

Capturing The

beauty

of Natural Elements

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Cityscape

By Anne Marie Ashley Photography by Jim Schmid

With sweeping views of the silver skyline and the bustling streets of Charlotte below, our feature home is a master class in sophisticated city living.

14 Schmid Urban Photography Home Charlotte Jim

August/September 2012

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 15

here are so many gorgeous neighborhoods in Charlotte, any one of which offer a plethora of interesting places to dwell.

Living inside a high-rise condo in the historic Fourth Ward, however, may be the most interesting of all. With sweeping views of the silver skyline and the bustling streets of Charlotte below, our feature home is a master class in sophisticated city living. And that balcony... well, it’s a view indeed.

The condo was a blank slate for Sonja Elliot of Sonja Elliot Interiors, with all white walls and nothing but the kitchen cabinetry bringing in color. Built in 2010, The Vue is the tallest residential building in the Southeast with 50 floors of studio and penthouse condos, all complete with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. The homeowner had purchased a unit with the largest balcony, and when Sonja was asked to decorate the new condo, she knew it was a designer’s dream project. “He said ‘Just do your thing, Sonja’,” she says. “I knew what the homeowner liked, having worked on other spaces of his, and I had the freedom to show his personality throughout the condo.”

The condo has an innate modern feel to it, being part of an urban highrise, but Sonja’s client had decidedly traditional taste – so she married the two, creating a classic space with warm earthy tones and furniture, and a cool vibe with sleek accessories. “If I had put a tufted leather sofa in the condo, it would have been out of place,” explains Sonja. “The homeowner is modern but comfortable, traditional, but warm. And I think I pulled that off in the décor.”

Sonja’s inspiration for the design and palette of the condo sprang from the backsplash she discovered for the kitchen. The tortoise shell-like design 16 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 17

18 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 19

included shades of blacks, browns, creams and tans, and it was installed row by row along the wall. Everything else just grew from the kitchen - outward.

The entire process took Sonja 14 months to complete, from concept to installation and she chose most of the furniture and art herself, while the sculptures were already part of the client’s collection. “Art was the biggest component of the job,” says Sonja. “Living with great art makes you feel good.” Each room has a unique piece of art to pull everything together and the homeowner uses his sculpture pieces to add an extra layer of interest.

“The terrace was the second biggest part and my client wanted to ‘feel some green’ when he walked out onto the balcony,” says Sonja. With the landscaping expertise and help of Solow Design Group, she created three greenscapes on the terrace with tall trees and potted plants alongside comfy outdoor dining furniture with an amazing view of the horizon, and relaxed seating on the side balcony overlooking the city. A small glass outdoor fireplace was added for a warm, cozy feel and ambient, solar powered lighting was installed in and around the landscape for evenings.

The homeowner discovered the bright orange Chihuly glass centerpiece in the Jerald Melberg Gallery in Charlotte and brought it to Sonja to see if she could incorporate it. When paired with the painting in the dining room, it adds a pop to the room “that’s just perfect,” says Sonja.

For the rest of the home, Sonja chose a warm palette of browns and creams, calling on the Historical Collection from Benjamin Moore for paint colors. “The Richmond Gold in the kitchen really articulated the traditional style the homeowner loves,” explains Sonja. “But that backsplash is what really inspired me.”

“I loved every part of this project,” says Sonja. “My favorite piece, though, is the cocktail ottoman I placed in the living room. It adds great texture, but it’s also completely functional.

And that’s the secret of great design – beauty and comfort in perfect harmony.”v

Resources

Artistic Painting by Steve Pelland......................... 704-502-1843 Carolina Bomanite............................................... 704-525-8585.................................................... www.carolinabomanite.com Design Within Reach............................................ 704-365-6514......................................................................... www.dwr.com Hearth and Patio.................................................. 704-909-2420..................................................www.thehearthandpatio.com Isabella................................................................ 704-377-4919............................................................ www.isabellastyle.com Mrs.Howard......................................................... 704-376-8900.................................... www.mrshowardpersonalshopper.com Picture House Gallery........................................... 704-333-8235.................................................www.picturehousegallery.com Solow Design Group............................................. 704-334-2986................................................... www.solowdesigngroup.com Sonja Elliott Interiors............................................................................................................ sonja.elliott.interiors@gmail.com Stark Home and Design Center.............................. 704-588-8842..............................................................www.stark-home.com Summer Classics................................................... 704-372-0095........................................................www.summerclassics.com Tile Collection...................................................... 704-541-8453........................................................... www.tilecollection.com

20 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

To see all of the photos from this home, visit the Urban Home Magazine blog.

DUXIANA at The Mews Downtown Southern Pines 910.725.1577

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

improvements

FIRE FIGHT

“Aesthetically, a fireplace is a gorgeous addition to the home and garden.

It’s going to wow you every time you look at it.”

By Dana W. Todd

With fall around the corner, it’s time to add elements of warmth to outdoor spaces to transition through the crisp days to come. But when it comes to adding firelight, what’s the best choice?

George Crump of The Stone Man offers pros and cons on fire pits and outdoor fireplaces so you can choose what suits your backyard best.

One of the great things about a fire pit is that there is always a seat around the fire when entertaining large numbers of people. It can seat many people and only requires a small footprint in the yard. “Smoke blows around like a campfire. You will be in the smoke, but that’s part of the charm,” says Crump. Like an authentic campfire, fire pits encourage fun activities like marshmallow roasting. Have an exquisite view?

A fire pit won’t block your lake or garden vista and integrates easily into a previously designed landscape.

Fireplaces, more massive in structure, add the pizzazz a backyard needs to go from beautiful to stunning. “Aesthetically, a fireplace is a gorgeous addition to the home and garden. It’s going to wow you every time you look at it,” Crump says. “It’s good for creating privacy and has a strong effect in blocking an unwanted view.”

Crump adds a note of caution, however, about outdoor fireplace design. “Beware of exterior fireplaces not built according to code,” he says. “All our have a proper fire chamber,The damper Closet fireplaces and Storage Concepts Containerand Store

flue, not just a hole for smoke to exit. This design is more effective at drawing smoke up the chimney, providing the best control.” He adds that it can be an art to make sure smoke goes up the chimney with unpredictable wind patterns. “The adjustment option a damper offers helps the fireplace work properly.

A simple, straight flue in an outdoor fireplace is not an acceptable method of drawing the smoke up and away from those enjoying the fire’s warmth,” Crump says.

Whether choosing a fire pit or fireplace, Crump, who hails from Scotland and is best known for his Old-World integrity and stone craftsmanship, says homeowners can create many looks depending on stone choice.

“A tight, thin gray stack finish is more formal, whereas big, chunky brown boulder-like stones are rustic and provide an aged look,” he explains. A combination provides an eclectic aesthetic.

“Every situation is different because every house is different with a unique environment,” says Crump.

“We have never built the same fireplace twice; it is always customized.”

Interested in seeing whether a stone fireplace or fire pit suits your backyard? Contact The Stone Man at 704-616-7948 or visit www.stonemanrocks.com. The Stone Man also designs and installs amenities like porches, outdoor kitchens and pool improvements.

24 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 25

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Decorating n Trends

Rustic chic The Metrolina Tradeshow Expo in Charlotte is a marketplace offering rows upon rows of old and new items from vendors around the region. If you know what you’re looking for and have a vision for repurposed items, you could just snag the next one-of-a-kind art piece, furniture piece or accessory for your home. Luckily, we had trained

By Anne Marie Ashley

eyes with us when we took our team of designers to the spring expo to seek out some hidden gems. Check out some of the found objects and their suggested uses from designers Beth Keim of Lucy & Co., Will Smith of Will Smith Interiors and Rodney Hines of The Furniture Connector and High Cotton Home.

Mason Jars Old use– Used for canning and preserving food and drink

Fabric Old use – Scrap fabric from clothes, upholstery or linens

Store Display Old use – Placed as an end-of-aisle display for baby food jars in early grocers

New use – Storage for office, craft or bathroom supplies – pens, paper clips, cotton balls, Q-tips, markers, paint brushes – you name it

New use – Create fun, distinct fabric birds in all sizes and colors used for a child’s mobile OR a bit of whimsy in your home décor

New use – Sand and paint for an original cubbyhole cabinet, storing mudroom clutter

Shoe Crate Old use – Old-fashioned retail delivery and storage crate for shoes

Wooden Textile Dolly Old use – Used in textile mills to haul large bolts of fabric in the early 1900s

New use– Seal or paint wood and attach legs for a rustic butcher-block style kitchen island

New use – Remove the handles and lock the wheels for an uncommon coffee table Printing Press Letters and Art Old use – Steel letter, icon and art blocks used in an old printing press machine New use – Polish and use as unique drawer pulls, stamps or wall hooks

28 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Building n Trends

The new face of

luxury

By Nancy Atkinson

Interior designers know that decorating with a mix of old and new, casual and formal makes rooms more interesting. They repurpose things, using an old ladder as a blanket holder or a metal workbench for a kitchen island, to lift rooms from ordinary to extraordinary. The search for these items could become a time-consuming treasure hunt - combing boutiques, antique malls and flea markets looking for the perfect item.

Sleepy Poet

American Institute of Architects

Recently released winners of the American Institute of Architects 2012 Housing Awards reflect these new trends. The homes feature emphasis on a higher level of design quality and organization over more square footage. Cleaner lines, less clutter and fuss with large rooms that incorporate the kitchen, family room and dining area are emerging trends. Homes are being built smaller and more environmentally conscious, focusing on comfortable, efficient living spaces.

The economic boom of the mid-nineties and early millennium birthed the “McMansion” style of home. But industry experts say today’s new luxury home is being designed for the way American families actually live, rather than how they might aspire to live.

In Charlotte, Charles Lew, President of Lantern Builders, says these trends hold true, based on his experience. He has done more

30 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

remodeling of existing homes over the past few years, but says now that building is beginning to pick up, clients want smaller homes with a focus on quality.

“My clients are mostly in their 30s and 40s with young kids and they are making a long-term investment. They want compact, usable, energy efficient spaces,” explains Charles. “They are spending more money on fixtures, including high quality cabinetry and are more interested in things like framing and insulation. It’s a more educated and involved homeowner who is now helping steer the project.”

Drop Zone Most families enter through the back door of the home, so the grand two-story foyer is being replaced with space in the back of the house

called the “drop zone.” A larger version of the mudroom, the drop zone has baskets for mail, hooks for backpacks and coats, storage for shoes and winter wear and may even include lockers. The idea is to give everyone in the family a place to drop their things before it can clutter the house.

Open Family Rooms Going the way of the grand foyer, the formal living room and dining room have also been replaced. The new luxury home makes better use of space with an integrated, open area that encompasses the kitchen, family room and dining area. Families live fully in these large areas, separating the spaces with furniture rather than walls.

Lifestyle Center Dad’s large home office with the mahogany desk is now seen as a waste of space. Whether it’s called a lifestyle center, a resource center, a pocket office or a home management center, the new home office is

a multi-functional space built off the kitchen where parents can work from home, pay bills, scrapbook and wrap gifts and kids can do their homework and craft projects.

Steam Showers Large Jacuzzi tubs are no longer must-haves in new homes, being replaced with bigger shower stalls that allow for greater movement. Steam showers are the new luxury, providing a spa-like experience that incorporates acupressure, music and even aromatherapy.

Universal Design Elements of universal design are making their way into new home design, as more homeowners plan to grow old in their homes or have elderly parents moving in. Examples of this include bedrooms and full baths built on the ground floor, built-in elevators and walk-in bathtubs with doors that allow easy access and stability.

American Institute of Architects

Andrew Roby

American Institute of Architects

American Institute of Architects

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 31

Andrew Roby

today’s new luxury home is being designed for the way American families actually live, rather than how they might aspire to live.

Outdoor Living Spaces With the kitchen, dining and living areas combined as one, there’s less need for a separate breakfast nook. That space is being used to make room for an outdoor living space, since more families entertain at home and enjoy their outdoor fireplaces and cooking areas. Outdoor living spaces have now become integral to the experience and use of the home.

Urban Development It’s not only how they’re building, developers are also re-thinking where they build.

The American demographic is changing with young Millennials and older Baby Boomers making up more than half the American population. Soaring gas prices and environmental consciousness have impacted these homebuyers, who now want to spend less time in the car and more time in the neighborhood with family and friends.

Recently released Census data appearing in the Wall Street Journal shows that city centers grew faster than suburbs in 27 of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas between July 2010 and July 2011. The article lists Charlotte as one of the top five cities in the nation where growth in the city is outpacing the suburbs.

Does this trend reflect short-term fallout from the recession and the housing bust, or is it a true shift in homebuyers’ preference for cities over the space and privacy of the suburbs?

Kenneth Johnson, senior demographer at the Carsey Institute at the University of New Hampshire, says some city dwellers are likely to head to the suburbs as the economy and housing market continue to mend. “I suspect the modest growth of the urban cores is a short-term phenomenon,” he says.v

32 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Andrew Roby

Andrew Roby

Arthur Rutenburg

Resources

Advanced Renovations......................................704-799-3999...........................www.advancedrenovations.com Andrew Roby General Contractor......................704-334-5477..........................................www.andrewroby.com Arbor Construction Group..................................704-542-5833....................... www.arborconstructiongroup.com Arthur Rutenberg Homes..................................803-548-4663........................ www.arthurrutenberghomes.com Benham Builders...............................................704-363-2940...................................www.benhambuilders.com Hopedale Builders.............................................704-372-2696..................................www.hopedalebuilders.com Impact Design Resources...................................704-773-1344.........................www.impactdesignresources.com Lantern Builders................................................704-333-3190.....................................www.lanternbuilders.com Shea Homes.......................................................704-812-1206.......................................... www.sheacustom.com Standard Pacific Homes.....................................704-759-6000..........................www.standardpacifichomes.com Urban Building Group........................................704-307-4606.............................www.urbanbuildinggroup.com Zar Custom Homes............................................704-843-8447..................................www.zarcustomhomes.com American Society of Lanscape Architects August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 33

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

Certified Green Advantage Builder | US Green Building Council | The Forest Stewardship Council Better Business Bureau | Home Builders Association

704.363.2940 | www.benhambuilders.com | jfb@benhambuilders.com

IMPACT

design resources

Visit Our New SouthEnd Showroom 305 Foster Ave. • Charlotte, NC • Mon-Thurs 9-4 or by appt. info@IMPACTdesignresources.com • 704.773.1344

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Our Products are LOCALL Y MANUFACTURED

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remodeling

36 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Grandeur From Ashes to

By Ginger Sprinkle

When a home originally built for former Charlotte Hornets owner George Shinn was struck by lightning and burned beyond repair, the remaining lot on the gorgeous Tega Cay property caught the eye of some neighbors around the corner.

After all the debris was hauled off the premises, the lot remained untouched for over a year. That’s when the neighbors decided to make an offer.

The only remnant of the home that new owners Barry and Leigh Whaling kept was the pool’s original Hugo the Hornet logo; they asked Zar Custom Homes to save it despite the pool’s demolition and reshaping.

“We protected it during construction, then surgically cut around the tile design, installed the new pool plaster and acid-washed the logo to its original condition,” says Russell Zavatsky, owner of Zar. Even more interesting were the numerous unique features and what was involved in restoring this burnt property into another showcase home. The Whalings had specific requests and Zar delivered. When other builders told them the home would take one to two years to build, Zar delivered in nine months.

“We were warned a project this size would have multiple pitfalls,” Barry says. “We experienced a challenge here and there, but Zar made them so minimal they had little to no effect.”

The main goal was to merge the interior and exterior, with the glass and views from every room syncing with Lake Wylie. Details down to paint colors were chosen to accomplish this; the use of calming blues match the lake and yet are bright and vibrant.

Particular attention was paid to the granite chosen, which features blues and coppers, tying in the circular dining room, the copper roof and the blue exterior, giving it an outdoorsy feel.

Barry calls the home “modern mountain”, implementing stone and wood ceilings complemented by modern Brazilian cherry floors with chrome and metallic accents alongside steel columns. The home met two objectives – residential conveniences including the latest appliances, accented with commercial applications and modern design.

One interesting construction point is the complexity, with four stories tiered and built into the cliffside that falls over 80 feet from the street to the water. For example, the master bathtub and shower area is cantilevered out over the lake surrounded with glass walls. Nearly one month of construction was devoted to the commercial steel shell for the home’s structural elements. A huge crane worked from the top of the slope, as it swung large steel beams out over the lake to place them correctly. Workers walked the beams with welding torches to make all the connections.

The Whalings, who lived around the corner, were onsite almost daily. Russell and his wife Lisa worked very closely with them to ensure the home was coming together to their complete satisfaction.

“We are very happy with our home,” Barry says. “Zar did an excellent job, was easy to work with and handled any issue with speed and quality. They went far above and beyond any contractor I know of and we ended up becoming friends through the process.”v For more information on Zar Custom Homes, call 704-843-8447 or email lisa.zavatsky@zarcustomhomes.com. You may also visit www.zarcustomhomes.com.

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 37

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Contributing Editor | Building a Better Home

The Restful Retreat

trent haston Stop treating your bathroom like it doesn’t belong inside. Focus on the details to truly bring it IN, making it not only functional, but an unexpectedly beautiful space in your home as well.

Bathrooms are often the least detailed, least decorated and most forgotten rooms in our homes. So much thought goes into kitchens, living rooms and even outdoor spaces; yet when it comes to bathrooms, plain-Jane rules. Remembering that the bathroom is one of the few places where you can demand total privacy, you can add details that make it truly a place of retreat. Powder rooms and guest baths should get the same treatment - they too are one of the only rooms your guests can have complete privacy, so make it a comfortable home away from home.

Many bathrooms follow the same tired blueprint: ceramic tile floor, tile shower surround, sheetrock walls, unframed mirror, tub, toilet and sink. A few deviations from this can really make your bathroom stand out, so give this room a facelift by focusing on the details when it comes to materials, fixtures and accessories.

Go beyond the standard tile and don’t be afraid to use unconventional materials in your bathrooms. Investigate wood, stone and other tile alternatives, and install them in unconventional places and patterns. For example, take a linear tile and run it on the diagonal, or run the pattern all the way up one wall. This adds interest without doing any major renovations. Consider a heated floor as well. Trust me, you won’t regret it. And don’t forget about your ceiling - adding detail here in the form of crown molding, beams, or tile can be unexpected, giving a bath new dimension.

Your bath fixtures don’t have to be humdrum either. There are an enormous variety of faucets and shower fixtures on the market, so look for unique designs and finishes. Create a spa-like experience in your own shower by adding body sprays, rain heads and hand-held showers. Look into alternative light fixtures. Could a chandelier, pendant or sconces replace the standard globed light fixtures we so often use? Or could you let in more natural light? Many people are hesitant about putting windows in their bathrooms, but a variety of etched and fogged finishes allow modesty while letting in light.

Skylights and higher windows are another alternative.

Perhaps the easiest way to add detail is to focus on your bathroom accessories. Replace the large boring mirror with two framed ones, or consider a floor-to-ceiling mirror. These are unexpected details that add interest.

Most importantly, add details you love that are also functional. Hang special art, add a TV, display beautiful bath linens or add a towel warmer. If you have the room, add comfort with a plush chair or the convenience of a washer and dryer.

Stop treating your bathroom like it doesn’t belong inside. Focus on the details to truly bring it IN, making it not only functional, but an unexpectedly beautiful space in your home as well.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.

40 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 41

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Kitchens & Baths

next generation

by Dana W. Todd

44 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Hughes Supply is proud of their roots. The company has supplied HVAC and plumbing fixtures for kitchens and baths to our fathers’ and grandfathers’ generations and it is an enduring company that actively serves today’s homeowners, interior designers, architects and builders. Hughes Supply is proud to announce that they’re re-adopting their original name and are ready to show off showroom transformations that are sure to please those who are building or renovating a home.

The Hughes Supply Charlotte showroom and The Majestic Bath on South Sharon Amity Road are merging to become one of Kohler’s premier Next Generation showrooms. With a sleek, clean, modern design, the showroom displays modular vignettes of the latest Kohler kitchen and bath products. The new layout makes it easy for customers to visualize how the products will look in their kitchens and bathrooms. Its clean visual organization enables homeowners to see the range of Kohler products, including the prestigious Kallista brand.

The high-end Kallista line of faucets and fixtures is displayed in a few select showrooms in the country, and Hughes Supply’s Huntersville showroom is one of them. Acclaimed interior

designers, including Mick DeGiulio, Bill Sofield, Barbara Barry, Laura Kirar, and Michael S. Smith, design Kallista products. The line also includes specialty vessel sinks, vanity bases and consoles, medicine cabinets, towel bars, kitchen sinks and drainboards, and accessories such as sprayers and soap dispensers.

Hughes Supply will continue to offer other well-respected plumbing brands in its showrooms. Its Huntersville showroom is currently undergoing a Next Generation renovation and will showcase the latest products from Kohler and others in the near future.

“This highly visual display helps homeowners and designers better understand current design trends and how new products integrate into those trends,” says Cassie Abernethy, showroom sales manager for Hughes Supply. “This understanding eases the transition from the product display in the showroom to helping homeowners visualize how it will look and function in the home.”v Visit the Charlotte showroom at 621 S. Sharon Amity Road or call 704-366-9099. Visit the Huntersville showroom at 16235 Northcross Drive or call 704-892-6466. Find more information at www.hugheskitchenandbath.com.

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 45

Simply the best

hardscapes • landscapes • arbors • night lighting • pools • outdoor spaces • decks • fireplaces & barbecues • irrigation • fences

704-201-0917 | www.customlanddesign.com

46 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 47

essentials

new products

1

Kitchen & Bath 1.

2.

Ann Sacks Petrified Wood Tile The term petrified comes from the Greek petro, meaning stone. Each piece of these Petrified Wood tiles displays the unique knots and rings that characterized an individual tree; no two are the same and the end result is a lustrous, exotic look that is incredibly durable and rare. www.annsacks.com.

3

Kallista Fei Tian Wen Elliptical Vessel Sink Designed by famous China-born artisan Robert Kuo and inspired by Dunhuang cave drawings, the exterior is an enticingly tactile swirl pattern evoking thousand year old Buddhist art. www.hughessupply.com.

3.

Leather Strap Cutting Boards These solid maple and walnut wood cutting boards are durable, rich and just plain cool.

Leather strap attached to each, perfect for hanging in the kitchen or outdoor grill. www.jaysonhome.com.

4.

Pour Olive Oil A newbie on the Charlotte scene, Pour Olive Oil shop is churning out amazing artisanal olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Stop in and partake in one of their daily tastings or peruse their selection. www.pouroliveoil.com.

5.

Salt & Pepper Shaker with Wood Texture These hammered stainless steel salt and pepper shakers made by Mary Jurek Design Inc. add sophistication to your kitchen and your homemade meals. www.neimanmarcus.com.

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Antica Farmacista Champagne Diffuser Inspired by the unique spirit and style of truly exceptional Champagne, this fragrance is vibrant, fresh and ravishing. Sparkly top notes of satsuma citrus balance beautifully with subtle floral notes of muguet. Sensuous apricot, nectarine and passionfruit complement the sweetness of sugared black currant.

Mellow accents of sweet vanilla ground this incredibly fresh, effervescent scent. www.luxehomecouture.com.

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48 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

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Award Winning

remodels

By Anne Marie Ashley

Every year the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the Home Builders Association of Charlotte (HBA) give out their respective awards for the best remodeling projects by local remodelers. The HBA Excellence in Remodeling Awards are given in several categories, while the Annual Contractor of the Year Awards (CotY) given by NARI award outstanding remodeling work in local chapters. Remodeling a home is a huge undertaking and hiring someone who can help you get the kitchen, bathroom or home of your dreams can make the process truly satisfying. Here, we highlight some of the winners and the jaw-dropping transformations they’re capable of producing.

Before

After NARI CotY Award Residential Kitchen Award Winner Under $40,000 Category DeRhodes Construction

Before Before

After NARI CotY Award Residential Addition Award Winner $100,000-$250,000 Category Andrew Roby, Inc

50 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

After NARI CotY Award Residential Kitchen Award Winner Over $120,000 Category DeRhodes Construction

Images courtesy of NARI and Home Builders Association of Charlotte.

Before

Before

After HBA Excellence in Remodeling Award Gold Winning Bathroom Remodel $25,000-$40,000 Category Andrew Roby, Inc & Gene Cline Interiors

After HBA Excellence in Remodeling Award Gold Winning Kitchen Remodel $60,000-$100,000 Category Metropolitan Builders

Before

Before

After

After

HBA Excellence in Remodeling Award Gold Winning Kitchen Remodel $100,000 and Over Category Metropolitan Builders, Metropolitan Kitchen & Bath &Â Craig W. Issac Architecture

HBA Excellence in Remodeling Award Gold Winning General Remodel $240,000 and Over Category

Andrew Roby, Inc & Meyer Greeson Paullin Benson Architecture

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 51

FURNITURE • LIGHTING • ART • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS

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Why Hire A certified Remodeler

By Anne Marie Ashley

Remodeling a home is an enormous undertaking that can prove to be both frustrating and rewarding at once. However, frustration can be exaggerated and projects halted when you aren’t trained to handle problems when they pop up during the process. That’s where a certified professional remodeler comes in. We spoke to Mike Waite of the Charlotte chapter of National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) to find out how hiring a certified remodeler can benefit homeowners.

What does a Certified Remodeler offer homeowners?

A remodeler who has completed the NARI certification has years of experience, dedication to ongoing training and a commitment to ethical conduct. “Remodelers who gain this certification have training in building codes, construction law, safety, standards of practice and a host of other things average homeowners aren’t schooled in,” explains Mike. “Add on top of that their knowledge of several different kinds of remodeling work from kitchens to carpentry and they really do take the load off the homeowner entirely.”

What are some things homeowners should do to prepare for a remodel?

There are a few items that homeowners can mark off their check-

list when preparing to remodel their home and when working with a professional. “Having a fully thought-out plan is the first thing homeowners need to do in any major home renovation,” says Mike. He also offers the list below as a guideline to follow: • Determine the budget • Select a contractor • Insist on a contract • Plan for inconvenience What can a homeowner expect when working with a certified remodeler?

“Be prepared to be inconvenienced,” says Mike. “A remodeling project can and will disrupt your traditional daily routine.” Most likely workers will be in your personal space at inopportune times, so plan accordingly. Ask to be notified as to when services may be turned off, such as water or power. Prepare for dust and have extra HVAC filters for monthly replacement. “Maintain a sense of humor, and realize that a remodeling project is an adventure,” reminds Mike.

What can homeowners expect to pay a certified remodeler?

“As with any home project, the budget depends on what the homeowner is comfortable with and can afford,” offers Mike. A good rule of thumb is to save 10-20% of your budget for increases to the original scope of work. “Be wary of entering into a project if it is right at the maximum of your budget because any changes could cause enormous heartache and stress.”

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) also offers a program for remodeler certification. The NAHB offers a Certified Graduate Remodeler program that requires continuing education every three years.

These requirements include attending remodeling or business-related seminars, trade shows and educational programs. Obtaining other professional designations also counts towards meeting the continuing education requirement.v

Andrew Roby

54 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

To find a Certified Remodeler or a Certified Graduate Remodeler in your area, please visit www.naricharlotte.com or www.nahb.org for more information.

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Color Me Bold

BETH KEIM

Layering complementary fabrics in graphic patterns helped strengthen the concept.

Infusing color into a room adds a shot of life to your décor. When done right, it’s literally life changing to a room. I asked my lead designer on this project, Ashley, to tell me how she pulled it off so brilliantly. Read on to find out.

“I have always been a fan of color. Saturated or muted, color can evoke many moods and really transforms a space. For my latest project, a family room for the Glenneys, the first thing my client requested was that the room “wouldn’t be beige like the rest of her house.” I feel confident this design met that requirement and then some. If you consider yourself color-phobic, this room might change your mind.

Starting with a bold inspiration fabric, I pulled my favorite “pop colors” and determined the most effective ways to use them. This family loves ottomans, so why not make them a focal point in the room? Acid green velvet and faux orange crocodile make them stand out against the neutral sofa and chairs. Layering complementary fabrics in graphic patterns helped strengthen the concept.

Although the walls remained neutral, a must when using this much punch, adding a graphic horizontal stripe helped define the adjacent sitting area and was the perfect backdrop for a pair of green lounge chairs. There was a need for a custom media cabinet, which presented yet another opportunity to introduce color. Instead of going the expected route with stained wood, I chose vivid turquoise and balanced the color with a matching lamp on the opposite side of the room. Orange lamps frame the sofa and tie in the hits of orange in each fabric.

Using this much color was new to me, but I like to take risks and test the rules of design.

The end result is a space that is cozy, vibrant and fun. I was so pleased to learn that this room is now the family favorite and I know they will enjoy it for years to come.”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.

58 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Tips for using color in your home: • When using multiple colors, use them sparingly, reserve them for special pieces or for items you want to highlight.

• Try using pops of color on small accent pieces. An ottoman is a great option and easy to reupholster later on, should you grow tired of the fabric.

• For a mainly neutral room, a great low-commitment way to add color is through accent pillows. Go bold with pattern and color!

• Layer and repeat colors to enforce your scheme.

• If you want to ease in, buy an inexpensive piece at a flea market and paint it yourself.

• Don’t feel like you have to follow color trends. Design your home for what you like and what makes you feel good.

Design & Photographs by Ashley DeLapp

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 59

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Designer Spotlight: Sarah Catherine Norkum

by Anne Marie Ashley

WHY THE ROOM WORKS

We asked Sarah Catherine Norkum of Sarah Catherine Studio of Design in Charlotte to give us the rundown on one of her favorite client spaces. Here, she explains how the project came together and outlines some of the key design elements she used to create it.

“In designing this living room space, my challenge was creating a modern and functional space for a young professional that also told a rich story. The space needed to be more than beautiful pieces of furniture and a cohesive composition – the client wanted depth, which I created using Charlotte as a backdrop.

The bronze, warm chocolate and jewel-toned palette pays homage to the gold that was first discovered in Charlotte’s soil before the metal was ever discovered in California. New York based artist, Paul Hunter, makes a statement with his vibrant gold, white gold, bronze, copper and oxidized metal canvas pieces from Shain Gallery.

Vintage and vintage-inspired seating is upholstered in rich textures, including a detailed custom sofa by Design Services of Charlotte, upholstered in Pollack wool with contrasting back cushions in soft herringbone linen by Donghia. Classic chairs by Kroehler, one of Charlotte’s leading furniture manufacturers of the past, are covered in soft tweed accented with a graphic embroidered print. The unique occasional chairs are covered in milky outdoor cotton velvet, adding a level of durability.

The corner of Trade and Tryon once served as the central trading post for the Native Americans of this area. The feather trim details on the neutral window treatment and the print in the area rug tributes the heritage. The bronze and gold nest-shaped chandelier is a nod to Charlotte’s nickname, ‘The Hornet’s Nest’, and illuminates the room while complementing the texture of the custom entertainment unit.”v

Martin Chair by Younger Furniture, Romo Leoni Linen fabric. City Supply Co. www.citysupplycharlotte.com.

Chandelier by Corbett Lighting, Lighting & Bulbs Unlimited. www.lbuonline.com.

Morrocan Rug, Stark Carpet. www.starkcarpet.com.

62 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Darryl coffee table, Bradley Hughes. www.bradley-hughes.com.

Sofa custom-designed by scsd. Back cushion fabric, Wishbone Linen. www.donghia.com.

Wall covering in Numbus, Wietzner Limited. www.weitznerlimited.com.

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new products

decorating 1.

Miles Leather Ottoman Elegant pleats and button-tufted styling give this ottoman the character of a bomber jacket or a well-used baseball glove. Perfect for parking tired feet or holding a tray of cocktail nibbles for guests. www.altogetherhome.com.

2.

Arteriors Sanford Teardrop Lamp This glass lamp has an olive gray sheer shade and a teardrop base, bringing ambient light to any room. www.isabellastyle.com.

3.

Wood Books These books are sold individually and are handcrafted of bamboo wood, with a mulberry tree spine. Edges are hand-chiseled to resemble paper pages and the wood carefully charred to expose the natural grain. www.jaysonhome.com.

4.

Diane von Furstenberg Powerstone Tray The singular style of DVF is captured in these unique handmade trays. Stamped on metal, the faceted Powerstone form easily shares the table with similarly strong shapes. www.nordstrom.com.

5.

Argentine Leather Cowhide Rug Created in squares of cowhide in multi-tonal browns and creams, this rug from Stark carpet offers a sophisticated contemporary feel with the traditional rectangular shape. www.starkcarpet.com.

6.

Spider Chair This unique, long-reaching chair is made of fine Italian leather, wood and a stainless steel chrome finish. It features a high back and low arm rests. This lounge chair is perfect for kicking your feet up and relaxing. www.divanodesigns.com.

7.

Andora Chaise Sectional This sofa-chaise sectional in rich dark brown leather is well tailored, revealing smooth attached back pillows and a diamond tufted seat. Sits on a sturdy wood frame and legs in dark walnut stain. Also available: matching chair, ottoman and with chaise on right. www.bydesignfurniture.com.

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64 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

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outdoor

Designia’s Organic Solution

By Ginger Sprinkle

68 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

A great method to conserve water in a landscape is the use of organics. In general, the move to organic fertilizers and soil amendments comes from environmental concern over the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. The real story on organics, however, is far more positive.

Consider that over the last hundred-plus years, the agricultural industry relied on chemical fertilizers, pesticides and genetics to guarantee a good crop. Year after year, farmers harvest their crop with little attention to the soil in which the plants grow. Sadly, this is true of the building and landscape industry as well. Prior to a home being built, the builder strips the land of all organic matter and topsoil. The building goes up and usually the landscaping is installed in the remaining red clay, which is devoid of life. Occasionally, an inch or two of minimally organic soil is added and plants are expected to perform admirably in dead soil.

If they don’t, the answer is usually a miraculous chemical fertilizer and more water. Before long, the stressed plants become diseased. The answer then becomes chemical control, more fertilizer and more water.

In order to sustain healthy plants and turf, the soil must have a natural source of food that is readily available. Forests never receive fertilizer treatments, pesticides or water by artificial means, and yet, forests that surround Charlotte have weathered droughts quite well. It is therefore reasonable to assume that the urban landscape will also thrive if the soil has a natural food source. This natural food source is created with properly balanced organic fertilizers, beneficial bacteria, fungi and other organic matter; essentially adding life back into the soil. Simply put: Healthy soil means healthy plants - plants that require less water, contract less disease, attract fewer bugs, grow more regularly and look lush and vibrant.

So if your garden is looking under the weather and your lawn is looking sparse, there is an organic solution that will help reduce the need for water and give you a flourishing and gorgeous landscape that will last for years.v DeSignia is a full service landscape company providing design, construction, irrigation, lighting, lawn care, and full service maintenance in the greater Charlotte area. To find out more about DeSignia go to www.DeSigniaLandscape.com or call 704-494-8877.

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 69

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Backyard

Beauty on Every Level

by Ginger Sprinkle

72 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Do you have a “difficult” backyard? Do you think having a high elevational slope might prohibit you from having the pool of your dreams?

Well think again.

This was the dilemma facing Iron Station homeowners Jim and Tina Staz who had a 22-foot backyard elevation. Not ideal for pool construction, right? Wrong. What they ended up with is nothing short of spectacular.

It’s not even fair to call the result a backyard paradise. A more appropriate description is backyard “island,” complete with multiple waterfalls, fire features aplenty, a unique pool kitchen, wet bar and entertainment area – in the water nonetheless – all enhanced by the elaborate backdrop of a 55-footwide waterfall ledge and diving rock in place of the token retaining wall. This three-tier stunner will take your breath away.

One thing Jim immediately realized during a consultation with Bryan O’Neal, owner/president of Falling Water Custom Pools, Inc., was there was no need to look further. “I wanted multiple pool tiers and also somehow incorporate the existing stairs and wall the original builder had put in around the motor court down to the area,” Jim says. “I wasn’t sure how we could accomplish this because the wall was curved – not straight. I didn’t really believe anyone could pull it off.”

Bryan did pull it off, and dug right into the challenge – with an awe-inspiring design. He knocked out and redid this particular area, complete with a waterfall cascading alongside the staircase into the first pool tier, which includes a wet bar. The second tier features a dining area where swimmers can dive into the kitchen and grab a burger and eat sitting on the underwater bar stools. The third tier is the pool’s trough, with a vanishing edge and a waterfall ledge/dive area, which also serves to circulate water back into the pool. This wall alleviated the need for hand rails, which many homeowners simply don’t like in designs.

“Due to the elevation, this is the most difficult pool I have ever designed and built,” Bryan says.

This project will be his pride and joy until a bigger obstacle comes along. Bryan always excels, despite the challenges, because he takes your considerations, specifications and topography into account to design and tailor a pool that fits your lifestyle and home.

If you aim to have a pool built and ready to debut for 2013’s swimming season, start now. The design and construction doesn’t happen overnight.

Remember, it’s key to allow adequate time for your ultimate pool’s evolution, so now is the best time to jump into the pool-construction queue.v For more information on Lancaster-based Falling Water Pools, call 704-506-7806, email bryan@falllingwaterpools.com or visit www.fallingwaterpools.com.

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 73

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lifestyles Lifestyle

Diamond Buying:

Caveat Emptor

76 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Like any investment, buying diamonds requires education and research. With buying options ranging from the Internet and national chains to regional “mom and pop” retailers, consumers are faced with a dizzying array of choices. Making the purchase even more complicated are the disparate grading and certification standards that exist country to country.

It’s universally acknowledged that diamond grading in the United States is among the highest and most accurate in the world. Interestingly enough, the jewelry industry acknowledges different international grading standards. More often than not, the unsuspecting consumer isn’t aware of these grading disparities and sees only the perceived savings.

As long as the customer is happy with the look, no harm done, right? While many consumers and retailers may be comfortable buying and selling a product under these circumstances, there are a growing number of experts suggesting greater standards in diamond grading.

How large an issue has this become? One American grading lab is in a legal battle with its international counterpart in an attempt to ban international-originated grading reports issued over the last 10 years from entering the United States. The key issue is different grading standards between North American and International rating agencies.

Online searches of EGL USA vs. EGL International produce dozens of articles on the subject.

Most consumers would suggest this inequality of certification should be illegal and more tightly regulated by objective rating agencies. Why isn’t it? Because diamond rating is at its core, simply an opinion. As

long as the customer is properly warned of the discrepancy at the point of purchase, it’s completely legal.

Some jewelers have been found to be unaware of this ongoing industry challenge, and are often lured into large-lot diamond purchases on internationally graded diamonds at what appear to be extremely attractive prices. A diamond mis-graded to them is equally mis-graded to the customer, and the cycle continues.Worse are the jewelry stores that fully understand this, yet insist on leveraging these discrepancies for greater profits.

“We are cheating the consumer when we tell them the diamond is one or two color grades better than it is,” says Don Palmieri, president of the Gem Certification and Assurance Lab (GCAL). “If this were 18 karat gold and it was stamped 14 karat, everyone would be screaming bloody murder.”

What should you do to make an intelligent purchase with the earth’s most precious conveyance of affection?

A few simple steps can assure that you are purchasing diamonds of the highest quality and value. Insist on a diamond graded in America and ask your jeweler if he or she thinks the diamond is graded accurately. Trust in a professional jeweler to help you make a wise purchase decision that will produce years of enjoyment. v Celebrating 25 years in the Charlotte market, Lions Jewelers is located at 6809 Phillips Place Court in Southpark. Visit them online at www.lionsjewelers.com or call 704- 556-7747.

August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 77

Your vision. Our expertise.

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Hopedale Builders is more than your builder. We’re your partner in turning your vision into reality. Experts in remodeling and renovation, Hopedale craftsmen bring a fresh perspective on each project that results in an exceptional experience.

Hopedale Builders, straight to the heart of awesome.

like www.urbanhomemagazine.com Pinterest.com/UrbanHomeMag twitter: @urbanhomemags facebook.com/Urban-Home-Magazine Visit our website for weekly advertiser specials.

Uncover the possibilities in your home. Contact us at:

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TRC STYLE

While we continue to offer the highly specialized clothing brands we’re noted for, Taylor Richards & Conger is always searching for special pieces from lesserknown or even start up vendors that aren’t found in specialty shops or chain stores. Here’s a sampling of some of the latest styles available this fall in the best shops around Charlotte, including TRC and TRC W.

Style GUIDE

FOR WOMEN 1. Sissi Rossi Handbag Italian designer Beatrice ‘Sissi’ Rossi has created a collection of luxuriously elegant bags that are functional as well as practical, such as this rich chocolate shoulder bag crafted in supple shrunken calf. www.sissirossi.it.

4. Onorati Jacket We found this fun, fitted velvet jacket from Italy and just had to have it in our shop! Its vibrant sun-gold lining and quilted orange under-collar add great colorful accents, and it works perfectly with jeans or soft flannel dress trousers. www.onoratia.it.

2. Hawick Cashmere Sweaters Old-world craftsmanship forms the DNA of these luxurious cashmere sweaters from Scotland, and they’re available in custom sizes and a veritable rainbow of colors (also available for men). Wrap yourself in the soft comfort of cashmere this fall! www.hawickcashmere.com.

5. Mac Jeans Authentic, modern and ultra comfortable, these vintage washed, slim fit jeans by MAC are available in spicy colors like curry, beige and burnt orange, transitioning your summer wardrobe into fall. www.trcstyle.com.

3. Brunello Cucinelli Shoes Styled with his signature attention to quality, fit and design, Brunello Cucinelli offers this sculptured leather wedge with ankle straps from his small Umbrian village, Solomeo. Available this Fall at TRC W. www.brunellocucinelli.com.

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Taylor Richards & Conger is the most distinctive boutique in Charlotte for men’s and women’s fashions. To speak to a personal stylist or to get more information, call 704.366.9092, visit www.trcstyle.com or follow them on Twitter @TRCStyle.

80 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

All images courtesy of Taylor Richards & Conger.

FOR MEN 6. Soft Constructed Blazer by Boglioli This is the ultimate navy blazer for men. Its super soft construction with lightweight wool allows it to drape and flow about the body, and its shorter length and slim silhouette add just the right touch of modernity to jeans or dress trousers. www.boglioli.it.

9. Barbara Blank Neckties Still handmade in the Manhattan neckwear factory her father founded, these whimsical ties by Barbara Blank can be customized in particular widths and fabric combinations from a seemingly endless cache of silk blankets. www.jsblankneckwear.com.

7. Phantasmagoria Belts Hand-crafted in Colorado, these fun sport belts can be ordered to your exact waist size (odd sizes included), with such details as contrasting keepers and unique buckles, allowing you to create a truly ‘one-of-a-kind’ belt. www.trcstyle.com.

10. Cantini Hand Stained Leather Goods Crafted in a small Tuscan shop and dyed with the rich colors of the season, these supple leather business card cases and iPhone covers just get better with age. www.trcstyle.com.

8. TRC SHIRTS Cut and sewn on vintage machines in a 75 year old American factory, these modern-fit shirts are detailed with custom colored buttonholes and unique buttons to create dress and sport shirts with character. www.newenglandshirtco.com.

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August/September 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 81

FALL Essentials

1

TRC PICKS

1.

Carthusia for Women Derived from perfume formulas of the pre-Renaissance Carthusian Monastery, Carthusia offers these wonderful fragrances: Io Capri, Mediterraneo, Via Camerelle, Aria di Capri and Fiori di Capri, all from the Isle of Capri. www.carthusia.it.

2.

Majestic Tees for Women The Parisian based company Majestic has got it down to a tee! A great fit paired with luxuriously soft fabric makes it the perfect under-pinning — a musthave for every wardrobe. Available in both turtleneck and crew neck. www.clothesbymajestic.com.

3.

Fratelli Rossetti Aged Chocolate Tassels Each Fratelli Rossetti shoe is a little work of art, the product of over 100 working phases by master craftsmen in their shop near Milan. Supple leathers with hand rubbed finishes in modernized classic designs are the trademarks of this ultra comfortable shoe collection. www.fratellirossetti.com.

4.

Kale Naturals Featuring the fresh, light scents of wild mint and citrus, Kale Naturals promotes effortless grooming for men with its environmentally friendly formulas and packaging, and is produced here in the U.S.A. www.kalenaturals.com.

5.

2

Makins Hats Hand-cut and blocked using centuries old techniques, Marsha Akins incorporates only the finest wools and her wonderful sense of color to create a collection of men’s hats that is steeped in nostalgia but gives a nod to the fashion of the day. www.makinshats.com.

82 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

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All images courtesy of Taylor Richards & Conger.

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DAY TRIPPING High Country,

north Carolina

High Country, North Carolina The breathtaking vistas of the Appalachian Mountains are part of the rich history of North Carolina, calling locals back home and visitors down South. There’s no better place to watch the seasons change than in the High Country towns of Boone and Blowing Rock and for those seeking the beauty of the mountains with a sweet southern drawl, this escape is too close not to enjoy.

What To See

Blue Ridge Parkway Pack a picnic and take a hike. Or a drive. Or a ride. Any way you choose to go, the parkway rewards with lush views of surrounding mountains, fields of wildflowers and of course, the best canvas for autumn colors found anywhere in the South.

High Country Wineries Worth the extra drive, the nearby wineries at Grandfather Mountain Vineyards, Banner Elk Vineyards and the 1861 Restaurant and Vineyard offer tastings, tours, farm-to-table menus and gorgeous landscapes to relax and sip.

Where To Shop

Art of Oil An olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting gallery in downtown Boone with over 40 traditional and flavored oils and vinegars.

Purchase by the bottle for cooking and gift giving or peruse the wine, bread, pasta, art and jewelry.

84 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2012

Mast General Store Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Mast opened in 1883 and is one of the oldest general stores in the region. Find old-fashioned candy and soda, winter weather wear, kitchenware, and a treasure trove of southern goodness.

Capel Rugs Elegant, one-of-a-kind rugs including hand knotted Orientals, hand tufted, loop hooked and flat-woven rugs, along with Capel’s famous braided rugs – all in every style, size and color imaginable.

Main Street Downtown Blowing Rock has a host of boutiques and shops, all unique to the high country, including Fig Leaf, Almost Rodeo Drive, Carriage Antiques and hip accessories and gifts at Neaco on Main Street – just to name a few.

Where To Eat

Bistro Roca One of Blowing Rock’s most popular restaurants, Bistro Roca serves inventive American Bistro cuisine from Chef Michael Foreman in a rustic yet elegant setting.

The Storie Street Grill Outstanding food. Gracious service. Storie Street provides a culinary feast that’s a favorite of locals as well as visitors to the historic village of Blowing Rock.

Best Cellar A favorite for over 30 years, Best Cellar is serving up classic, awardwinning dishes for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. An extensive wine list, amazing nightly specials and a romantic atmosphere make Best Cellar a must-try.

Images and information courtesy of www.blowingrock.com and Todd Bush Photography.

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