HOME
August/September 2013
CHARLOTTE URBAN
CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE
Jim Schmid Photography
Quality craftsmanship never goes out of style. Renovations 路 Kitchens 路 Baths 路 Outdoor Living 路 Eco Friendly
704.799.3999
www.advancedrenovations.com
Serving Charlotte and Lake Norman since 1997.
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4 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
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8 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 9
HOME CHARLOTTE URBAN
august/september 2013
CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE
August/September 2013
24
14
Reaching 180,000 homes annually
CONTENTS
28
VOL 13 NO 4
www.urbanhomemagazine.com Publisher Mark Herrmann Managing Editor Anne Marie Ashley Editorial Director Tammy Wanchisn
48
Writers Nancy Atkinson Anne Marie Ashley Dana W. Todd Brandy Snow
60
76
Sales Kathleen Hands Art Direction Harriet McDowall PageCreations Photography Jim Schmid Photography www.jimschmid.com
trends
departments
feature home 14 Classic Style
stylemaker
remodeling trends 24 Smart Remodeling 32 Award-Winning Remodels
Phone 704-332-1504
city trends 28 Queen City Brews
58 The Gatsby Home
Fax 704-973-5685
design trends 38 25 Designer Tips
Contributing Editors Trent Haston Beth Keim Rene Robaina Hade Robinson Production Administrator Shelley Kemper
Email: comments@urbanhomemagazine.com Website: www.urbanhomemagazine.com
features
@urbanhomemags
facebook.com/UrbanHomeMags
pinterest.com/urbanhomemag houzz.com/pro/urbanhomemagazine
All contents copyright 2013, 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.�
kitchens & baths
34 Elizabeth Edwards
inspiring spaces
42 Kitchens: Emily Bourgeois
essentials
why the room works?
64 Designer Spotlight: Amy Vermillion day tripping 80 Meadows of Dan, Va.
contributing editors
48 Attention to Detail 60 Counter Point
room service: beth keim 44 A Clean Slate, A New Look, A Lot of Trust
outside
56 Closer Together
custom homes
76 Customized Craftsman
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 2013
building a better home: trent haston
52 Maintaining Happiness
style guide: hade e. robinson jr.
66 Shades of Grey
wired: rene robaina
70 Disappearing Act
live life to the fullest in
COLOR
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f i n a n c i n g ava i l a b l e
14 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Jim Schmid Photography
style Classic
By Anne Marie Ashley
The resulting design of this home is a study in transitional style with a clean, comfortable look that is perfect for this family of four.
hen you walk into the house that’s perfect for you and your family, you just know. It feels like home. It speaks to you. It has a personality that matches yours and the layout only accentuates the way you already live your life. And so it was for the Whites when they bought their gorgeous Georgian home on Colville Road in Charlotte. “We’d looked at over 55 houses during the year-long home-buying process,” remembers Ashleigh White. “We made an offer within an hour of seeing this house. The layout was perfect and it required zero structural changes.” Ashleigh and her husband knew they wanted to start fresh with their new home, ditching the more traditional style they’d left at their home in Atlanta and embracing a more modern approach with a neutral palette in Charlotte. “I am drawn to a more contemporary look while
my husband is very traditional,” explains Ashleigh. “Transitional style seemed like a perfect marriage of our tastes and we began searching for a designer that did that perfectly.” The couple met with Melissa Armstrong of Melissa Armstrong Interiors and realized that her unique design style was ideal for their home. “She didn’t fall into that broad category of transitional,” says Ashleigh, “and her type-A, super organized style made her easy to work with.” With no renovations needed on their home, Melissa and Ashleigh got straight to work on design. With two small children, the spaces in Ashleigh’s home had to be comfortable and functional, yet stylish and decorative at once. Every bit of wallpaper came down, all the surfaces were re-painted and the floors refinished for a rich, warm feeling. “I think first and foremost, a home must work functionally,” explains Melissa. “ I want clients to be able to feel like they can actually ‘live’ in their home and enjoy every space.” Melissa and Ashleigh worked together combining new pieces with refurbished pieces already owned by the Whites. Custom upholstered August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 15
16 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
pieces intermingle with cherished family pieces that were re-covered to complement, and custom window treatments, rugs from Stark Carpet, and art from Hidell Brooks Gallery were brought in to round out the style. “When I first meet my clients,” says Melissa, “I ask them tear out inspiration from design magazines and bring them to our meeting. The common threads I see help me pin down their style.” Melissa also says that sites like Pinterest have made this process even easier, with clients able to share their pin boards with the designer and collaborate on looks. “My advice is to create your pin boards, and make sure your house has an easy flow from room to room.” When asked what her favorite room in the house is, Ashleigh easily answers that it’s the living room. “I found a pair of Mid-Century sconces two years before we decorated the room,” she explains, “but
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 17
18 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
When you walk into the perfect home. . . it has a personality that matches yours and the layout only accentuates the way you already live your life.
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 19
I knew that I wanted them to be the focal point.” Melissa designed most of the room around the sconces and added an extra long sofa with no arms for ample seating. Functional as well as beautiful, this room might be the center of the congruence of traditional and contemporary for the Whites. The contemporary vibe of the sconces and design of the ottoman fabric complement the more traditional textures like linen and velvet. Classic books and candelabras are used in a contemporary way to decorate the mantle and the room comes together with accessories
20 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
chosen by Melissa. “My favorite day is accessory day. I bring all of my favorite finds from local shops and try them out in the space – then I pare down from there,” says Melissa. “I like a clean, uncluttered look.” The resulting design of this home is a study in transitional style with a clean, comfortable look that is perfect for this family of four. “Melissa has a fresh style that I was really drawn to,” explains Ashleigh. “Really, every room in our home is my favorite.”v
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 21
Enjoy the warmth of summer with some cool furniture from By Design
APOLLO Occasional Chair $228 in Coffee or Champagne color
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remodeling n Trends By Nancy Atkinson
With recent signs that home sales are improving and the remodeling industry is turning the corner, it may be time to resurrect the remodeling project you’ve had on hold. Remodeling magazine’s recent report, “Remodeling Cost vs. Value” shows the overall cost-value ratio has improved, reaching 60.6% nationwide (67.3% in Charlotte specifically). Another good sign from the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA), recently released by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, shows that spending by homeowners on improvement projects is expected to accelerate this year. “Existing home sales were up almost 9% last year, and house prices are increasing in most markets across the country,” says Eric S. Belsky, managing director of the Joint Center. “This has increased the home equity levels for most homeowners, encouraging them to reinvest in their homes.” Before you call the contractor, however, review this list of renovations that, according to Remodeling magazine’s report, yield the best return on your investment. Improve Curb Appeal Sal Alfano, editorial director of Remodeling magazine, explains that replacement projects are really strong now because they are inexpensive to do and improve the look of the home immediately. “If you get new windows, new siding and replace the front door, the house looks great,” he says. “It sells faster and for more money.” In Charlotte, replacing your home’s siding with fiber cement siding recoups 80.8% of your cost. Consider replacing other worn components or bringing your home up-to-date by replacing the entry door, windows and garage doors, which are all cost-effective projects that can pay back 70 to 78% of your investment.
Advanced Renovations
Smart
Remodeling Remodeling in Charlotte
Project type Cost Recouped
Siding replacement (Fiber-Cement)
80.8%
Minor kitchen remodel
75.1%
Attic bedroom remodel
85.4%
Bath remodel
64.5%
Wooden deck addition
78.6%
24 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Minor Kitchen Remodel A major kitchen remodel is one of the most expensive projects, averaging more than $50,000 nationally. If your kitchen requires only a facelift, consider refinishing surfaces, upgrading appliances and installing new light fixtures; the national average for a minor kitchen remodel is a little over $19,000, and you could recoup 72.1% of your cost (75.1% in Charlotte). Attic Bedrooms If you need extra room, consider an attic remodel. With an average cost of $50,000 and a payback of 72.5% (85.4% in Charlotte), an attic remodel is one of the most cost-efficient ways to add more living space. Baths A bathroom remodel can yield a 62% return on average (64.5% in Charlotte). Outdated bathrooms require a lot of work and can be expensive to do, but if the flooring is nice and the walls around the tub and shower are in good condition, try giving your bathroom new paint, a new toilet, shower faucet and shower head to get the most bang for your buck. Wooden Deck Adding a deck or simply improving the one you have is a good idea, since the report showed this addition has a 77.3% return nationally (78.6% in Charlotte). Outdoor living rooms are becoming the norm, as homeowners stay at home more and want comfy areas they for entertaining family and friends. Clearly not all renovations projects are created equal. Learn more at costvsvalue.com, where you can download a report detailing the projects and remodeling costs for remodeling projects specific to cities across the nation, including Charlotte.v
Resources
Advanced Renovations.................................... 704-799-3999............................ www.advancedrenovations.com Andrew Roby.................................................. 704-334-5477.......................................... www.andrewroby.com Arthur Rutenberg............................................ 704-545-9900..........................www.arthurrutenberghomes.com Hopedale Builders........................................... 704-372-2696.................................. www.hopedalebuilders.com New Old.......................................................... 704-975-3770..................................................www.newold.com Shea Custom................................................... 704-817-2881...........................................www.sheacustom.com Zar Custom Homes........................................... 704-843-8447...................................www.zarcustomhomes.com
Graydesign Architecture, PA before
After
RobinRenato Architecture And design After
before
Shea Custom Homes before
After
Miller Architecture After
before August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 25
Grand Opening
The new Asheville model from Arthur Rutenberg Homes is now open in The Woodlands We invite you to visit our newest model home and experience the elegance, craftsmanship and lasting value of an Arthur Rutenberg Home. Our model homes represent fine examples of our award–winning Plan Collection of home designs, each of which can be customized to fit your lifestyle. Visit our new model in The Woodlands at: 4223 Piaffe Avenue, Mint Hill, NC 704-545-9900 We also build on customer owned property and in premier Charlotte and Ft. Mill communities. For more information call: 704-889-0225
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City n Trends
Queen City
Brews Justin Engel
Justin Engel
Charlotte’s microbrewery industry is growing strong.
Justin Engel
by Nancy Atkinson
NoDa Brewing Co.
One sip of a really good, locally-brewed beer and you instantly begin to understand the entire craft beer movement. It’s about quality, freshness and an amazing range of flavors. It’s about honing a craft and offering it to those around you. It’s about pride in taste. The economy could also have something to do with it. After all, a well-crafted beer costs on average $5 compared to $12 for a good glass of wine. But at the heart of it, this movement is about local pride. To learn more about Charlotte’s journey to becoming a beer city, we talked with craft beer expert Daniel Anthony Hartis. A native Charlottean, Daniel wrote his first articles about craft beer as a student reporting on the scene in Asheville. In 2008 he came home to Charlotte just as the movement was beginning here. Now he writes a popular blog (Charlottebeer.com) and has recently published a book, “Charlotte Beer: A History of Brewing in the Queen City.” Daniel explains that Charlotte’s craft beer movement began in 2009, with the opening of Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. Four Friends opened the following year, and the movement picked up steam in 2011 when NoDa and
28 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Birdsong opened next door to each other. Triple C Brewing and Heist Brewery came along in 2012. “Each is unique, with its own portfolio and cult favorite,” he says. “Birdsong is known for their jalapeno pale ale, while NoDa’s signature is Coco Loco porter.” Brewed with roasted organic coconut and cacao nibs, Coco Loco won a silver medal at the 2012 American Beer Festival. Which begs the question, what are the weirdest ingredients brewed into craft beers? To a novice, the roasted coffee in Triple C Brewing Company’s Up All Night Breakfast Porter may seem a strange thing to include in beer. Not so, says Daniel. “Coffee in beer is almost pedestrian.” In his research Daniel has come across beer brewed with bull testicles and another made with pages from “Moby Dick” (for those with literary tastes). “People try to get really inventive,” he says. “Craft beers have a lot of complexity and a full range of flavor. There really is a beer for everyone’s taste.” He recommends visiting the tasting room of local breweries and ordering a flight of beers, a sample of several 4 ounce beers to try. “You can sample four or
Eric Gaddy
five beers for not much more than the cost of a single beer.” He also recommends buying individual bottles of beer at some of the bottleshops around town. Just don’t buy the 22 oz. bomber until you’ve decided which flavor you like. Ryan Self, proprietor of Olde Mecklenburg Brewery (or OMB as it’s come to be known), says while the craft beer scene has recently boomed in Charlotte, he sees even more growth in the future. “Each brewery that opens up in Charlotte just makes us better,” he explains. “We help each other out, knowing that as other breweries improve their recipes, we will too, just to keep up.” He adds that while Charlotte is rapidly becoming popular as a “craft beer town”, the craft brews still only make up about 2% of all the beer offered in the city. Which means, as Ryan pointed out, there’s room to grow. In the end, craft beer is really all about the passion of the people brewing, the diversity of the flavors and the “buy local” movement across the nation. “You can go a few miles from the house and meet the brewmaster or someone behind the bar and talk about the beer,” says Daniel. “It’s a great experience.” With several new breweries planning to move into the area and new legislation that allows for larger facilities in more locations, Charlotte’s microbrewery industry is growing strong. So grab a friend and head to a local brewery, brewpub or bottleshop and enjoy a better beer. v
Local Micro-Breweries
Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
Signature Brew
Olde Mecklenburg Brewery .......................................Copper, a lagered ale Four Friends...................................................................i77, an American IPA (India Pale Ale) Birdsong.........................................................................Lazy Bird Brown Ale, but known for Jalapeno Pale Ale NoDa ...............................................................................Coco Loco, the award-winning brew Heist ...............................................................................I2PA Imperial Pale Ale and Oatmeal Stout Triple C ..........................................................................Up All Night Breakfast Porter and Smoked Amber Ale Growlers Pour House...................................................Any Seasonal
Eric Gaddy
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 29
TRC HONORING
CLASSIC
TAILORING
TECHNIQUES
CREATES
STYLE THAT ALWAYS MEASURES UP
P R INC IP LES OF S TYLE
13
FA LL S EL E C T I O N S AR R I V I N G D AI LY FR O M
KITON / BRUNELLO CUCINELLI / ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA / CANALI / BILLY REID / FRATELLI ROSSETTI / OXXFORD / & MORE 6907 PHILLIPS PLACE // (704) 366-9092 // TRCSTYLE.COM
Crossville Tile and Stone draws on the insight and expertise of artisans who have a gift for designing with tile and stone. Our knowledgeable team will help you create spaces that reflect your personality, style and good taste. For the inspiration and know-how to bring your design ideas to life, visit Crossville Tile and Stone. Our showrooms are open Monday through Friday at the locations listed below.
See the latest collections from Crossville at our showrooms located at:
Showroom Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM Mon. - Fri. crossvilletileandstone.com
Asheville - Airport Design Center 15 Design Avenue, Suite 206 Fletcher, NC 28732 828 209-0270
Charlotte 927 Pressley Rd Charlotte, NC 28217 704 927-8453
remodeling n Trends
Award-Winning Remodels by Anne Marie Ashley
Every year the Charlotte chapters of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and Home Builders Association (HBA) give out awards to local remodelers for outstanding projects. NARI awards a winner in each of several categories in their Contractor of the Year Awards (CotY), while HBA awards a gold and silver in several categories as well as a best in show. Here’s just a small representation of some of the amazing transformations these talented remodeling companies provide to customers.
HBA Excellence in Remodeling Gold Winners David Tyson & Associates with Rebecca Fant, AIA Additions $50K - $100K, Bathrooms Under $25K Kelly McArdle Construction LLC Additions Over $200K, General Renovation Over $240K with McClure Nicholson Montgomery Architects
before
Urban Building Group Attic, Bathrooms $25K - $40K, Kitchens $60K - $100K, Porches Under $30K, Best In Show for Kitchens $60K - $100K
After
Andrew Roby Garages Over $150K with Meyer-GreesonPaullin-Benson Architecture, General Renovation Under $120K with Don Duffy Architecture, General Renovation $120K - $240K with Charlotte In-Vironments, Interior Renovation with Charlotte In-Vironments, Kitchens Over $120K with Charlotte In-Vironments, Porches Over $30K with Meyer-Greeson-Paullin-Benson Architecture
Guthmann Construction with Gray Design Architecture Basement, Bathrooms Over $40K
Absolute Remodeling Kitchens Under $60K with Lindsay Daniel Architecture, Whole House $280k - $400K with Miller Nicholson Architect
Sheedy Watts Design Whole House $160K - $280K
Stirling Group Whole House Under $160K
Shea Custom Whole House Over $400K
Interior Renovation, Andrew Roby
NARI CoTY Award Winners DeFabion Remodeling Residential Kitchen Under $40K, Residential Kitchen $40K - $80K, Residential Bath $30K - $60K, Residential Addition Under $100K
Case Remodeling Residential Interior Remodel Under $100K
Charlotte Design Build Residential Kitchen $80K - $120K
Schultz Custom Home Residential Exterior Under $100K
DeRhodes Construction Residential Kitchen Over $120K, Residential Bath Over $60K
Advanced Renovations Residential Exterior $100K+
Guthmann Construction Residential Kitchen Over $120K, Residential Interior Remodel $100K+, Andrew Roby Residential Interior Element, Residential Exterior Specialty
David Tyson & Associates Residential Interior Element
before
Shea Custom Entire House $500K- $!M Moore Audio Design Home Theatre and Media Room
32 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
After Residential Interior Remodel Over $100K, Guthmann Construction
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stylemaker Carolina Gator Gumbo “Featuring my dear friends, Jean Prewitt & Don Cowan, this band has great energy and plays awesome dance tunes. They play around town and are tons of fun.”
Dinner Parties “A great way to deepen friendships, share creative energy, and relax. I love an outdoor entertaining space, fire, and music. And while it may not be fancy, we always prepare what we serve.”
Vogue’s Book of Etiquette “This is my go-to guide for how to do things properly.”
Elizabeth Edwards Arzberger Stationers
Lemlem Scarves “Love the product and the company mission. I get mine locally at Poole Shop.”
style•ma•ker | (stahyle·mey-ker): n. One who has an expertise in a certain area of style, design or living.
9 We asked Elizabeth Edwards, the talented sales director at Arzberger Stationers in Charlotte, Cryptic Monograms “I love it when you have to look closely to figure out what the letters are! These are some I created.”
to tell us about some of her favorite and most inspiring things. From yoga to music, check out
Manduka Yoga Mat “There is no substitute. Worth every penny.”
A Way of Life Farm “Fresh, seasonal vegetables and pasture-raised pork. Food here is an art and their uncured bacon is my favorite! Available at Charlotte Regional Farmers’ Market, 1801 Yorkmont Rd., 8am-12pm Saturdays.”
her picks for inspiring style and design.
34 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Family Photographs “I keep a box of actual images (not on an iPhone!) My favorites were, of course, taken by my husband, Chris Edwards.”
Your dream is our reality.
R e m o d e l o r N e w C o nstr u ct i o n
•
F r e e d e s i gn c o ns u ltat i o n
130 Southside Dr. Charlotte, NC 28217 Visit our new South End showroom and design center conveniently located off I-77 and South Boulevard
704-523-5181
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mad about
design
t h e Q u e e n C i t y ’s m o s t e c l e c t i c a n d d i s t i n c t f u r n i s h i n g s b o u t i q u e
2137 South Blvd, #100 | Charlotte, NC 28203 | facebook.com/HighCottonHome | 704.335.1220
1
2
“It’s important to create a layering effect with textures.”
25
— Lana Helda — Lana Helda Interior Design
3 “The devil is in the details, don’t forget accessories and artwork! I always scour my favorite vintage and consignment shops before an installation. I love to style shelves and side tables with interesting objets, it gives the room a personal, lived-in and finished look!” — Lindsey Coral Harper— LCH Interiors
5
— Laura Casey — Laura Casey Interiors
4
designer tips We asked local and national designers to offer us some of their BEST tips and favorite rules of thumb for design. We’ve compiled them all here for one easy go-to list, so get out your marker and circle your favorites.
“Lighting is one of my favorite places to splurge on an investment piece, because it isn’t subject to the wear and tear of many other design elements. To calculate the diameter of an appropriately sized fixture, add the dimensions of the room (12 feet by 14 feet, for example, would be 12+14). That number in inches (here, 26 inches) is a guideline for the fixture’s diameter.”
Christopher Peacock Rodney Hines Lana Helda Laura Casey Traci Zeller Teri Thomas Amy Vermillion Melissa Armstrong Erin Dougherty Lindsey Coral Harper Phoebe Howard Jonathan Adler Ron Sperry Circa Interiors Thom Filicia Tanda Jarest
6
“Every room needs something of quality.”
Paint the banister black, it makes all the difference!
7
“Don’t be afraid to mix high-end with affordable. The high-end usually brings the affordable up.”
— Circa Interiors —
— Traci Zeller — Traci Zeller Designs
— Teri Thomas— Teri Thomas Interiors
8
“Be well-read! Books are a wonderful way to add an extra layer and personalize your space. They not only speak to your interests and provide an interactive component to a space, but they also add depth, color and visual texture. Layered books on a coffee table or a stack of books next to a chair or sofa can add an unexpected element of interest that helps to tell your story and speak to your point of view.” — Thom Filicia —
9
“When in doubt, simple is better!” — Traci Zeller — Traci Zeller Designs
“I typically suggest an island 5’ wide by 8’ long. You don’t want it to look like an aircraft carrier, and when cleaning up, you want to be able to reach across it effortlessly.” — Christopher Peacock—
38 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
10
“When hanging draperies always take the rod all the way up & mount it under your crown molding. This way your ceilings will appear taller and make the room feel larger.” — Circa Interiors —
11 “Measure, measure, measure and don’t be afraid to make things in pieces. Often people have large rooms and high ceilings, however, elevators, doorways and hallways are usually never as large and aren’t as forgiving.” — Lindsey Coral Harper— LCH Interiors
14
13
12
— Melissa Armstrong— Melissa Armstrong Interiors
— Ron Sperry—
15
“Good upholstery is worth its price tag - if necessary put a less expensive fabric on a higher end frame and you’ll be able to reupholster it for years to come. Cheap upholstery not only looks bad, it becomes uncomfortable very quickly.” — Amy Vermillion — Amy Vermillion Interiors
18
— Rodney Hines — High Cotton Home
“An easy and affordable way to update a space is to switch out the lighting. There are so many great options out there nowadays for chandeliers, sconces and lamps that will quickly add a pop of color or interest.” — Melissa Armstrong— Melissa Armstrong Interiors
“Always buy a chandelier that is bigger than you think you need and more expensive than you think you can afford.”
“A quick way to update any room is by changing out tired lighting. Buy a new pair of lamps and replace existing ceiling fixtures for something more modern!” — Erin Dougherty— Isabella
“When selecting linens for your Master Bedroom, go with white or ivory linens. Mix up the textures, but keep the bed neutral and add color with pillows, lamps and art. I’ve had an all white bed for years and still love how fresh it looks!” — Erin Dougherty— Isabella
— Jonathan Adler —
“Don’t use standard dust ruffles. Most ready-made dust ruffles are 15” to 16” long, unlined, and skimpy looking. I think it is well worth the money to have one custom made and properly fitted for your bed. I usually make dust ruffles 18” to 21” long, depending on the thickness of the mattress and the overall height of the bed.”
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“I tell my clients to buy the absolute best they can afford. It is much better to spend wisely on fewer pieces than try and fill a room up with poor quality furnishings that they will have to soon replace.”
“Think outside the box! Dining rooms don’t have to be dining rooms, but can instead double as libraries or home offices. Buffets are a great choice for storage in living rooms. There’s no reason to use a “baby” dresser in a nursery. What matters the most is how your home works for, and grows with, your family.”
— Amy Vermillion — Amy Vermillion Interiors
— Traci Zeller — Traci Zeller Designs
— Phoebe Howard— Mrs. Howard
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“You should spend the money first on the rooms that you live in the most.“
“Know when to edit. Sometimes great design ideas get lost when there are too many of them fighting for attention. Choose the one you like best and execute it to the best of your ability. Save all of those other great ideas for the next room, where they, in turn, can be noticed and appreciated.”
“Don’t overcrowd bookshelves, mantels or side tables with too many picture frames. Try to pick the very best ones and then mix in with other accessories.”
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“Substitute texture for color. Nothing adds more warmth and authenticity to a home than a variety of textures. Adding high contrasting textures such as polished nickel, linen, velvet, stone and salvaged wood can create depth and appeal to the sense of touch as well as sight.” — Ron Sperry—
“For hot summer nights, use crisp cool Egyptian cotton percale sheets. Make sure the cotton is the best — a true long staple Egyptian cotton set of sheets should cost you about a dollar per thread. For example, 300 thread count Queen set should be somewhere around $300/set. Anything less than that is probably an inferior product or an imposture!”
“Create ambiance. Make use of colored light bulbs. One of my favorites is a pink bulb. It adds a soft glow that is more flattering in a very subtle way.” — Phoebe Howard— Mrs. Howard
— Tanda Jarest — Opulence and Duxiana
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 39
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Kitchen Designer: Emily Bourgeois
by Anne Marie Ashley
Snspiring spaces The owners of this Eastover home came to Emily Bourgeois with a request for a playful new kitchen. Working with B Whittington, a builder that thrives on detail, Emily designed this earthy, “summer camp� style kitchen with unique elements. A locust log serves as a ceiling beam, the range hood is clad in cherry bark and a magnolia limb wrapped with iron forms the supporting leg of the bar. A steel window was installed as close to the counter as possible to maximize light while plaster walls and restrained cabinets quiet and balance the look. 42 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Contributing Editor | Room Service
A Clean Slate, A New Look, A Lot of Trust BETH KEIM A good designer and contractor are both important when pulling together all the details in several rooms.
I moved 13 times before even graduating high school. I grew up with sheet rock dust, paint and renovations happening all around me, but another thing I remember was how my mother loved to change it up with a move. She would change colors, furniture and fabrics with every new home. The way we could afford that was huge yard sales and repurposing, and if Craig’s List had been around, it would have been dangerous. The “re-do” has rubbed off on me in my own home, though I haven’t moved in 10 years. I blame it on being in the business. A move is the perfect time to really
44 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
change it up – selling off old, tired pieces and trying colors. Though, this can be a bit overwhelming for an entire house. My clients, the Greers, wanted to do just that but call in professional help to take some of the decision making away. A good designer and contractor are both important when pulling together all the details in several rooms. On this project, I worked around two things: a pillow and pair of orange chairs. They were keepers from the old house and each gave me the colors I wanted to use that I knew my clients were comfortable with. The family room, kitchen and study were
Images courtesy of Mekenzie France
Before
high on the list to complete, with a plan in place for the remaining first floor rooms. What really helped make this a painless and stress-free project was the trust the Greers put in me and as a result, I was able to reveal my full “vision” for the space. In exchange, the Greers didn’t have to worry about the details and instead, came home to a completed and pulled-together space.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.
What To Look For When Choosing A Designer: n A good portfolio will give you a taste of what he or she can do n Word-of-mouth is always a great testament n Their personality and overall “vibe” n A strong opinion – a designer that pushes you outside your box a bit n A presentation that truly represents the finished product
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 45
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kitchens & baths
48 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
attention to
detail
by Anne Marie Ashley
Choosing the fixtures for your new or remodeled home is a big task and one that you don’t want to rush through. Luckily, the Hughes Kitchen and Bath Collection showroom in Huntersville and Majestic Bath in Charlotte make the process easy and enjoyable. Whether you are building a new home or renovating your existing one, the staff at Hughes Kitchen and Bath Collection welcomes you to their newly remodeled 10,000-square-foot showroom in Huntersville and their sister showroom, Majestic Bath, in Charlotte. Both showrooms offer the most beautiful, unique and distinctive plumbing fixtures in the area. The dizzying array of quality brands, fascinating displays and one-of-a-kind features at the Hughes and Majestic showrooms are part of the experience homeowners can have fun with when choosing their fixtures. Both offer brands like Brizo, Hans Grohe and Rohl, as well as their exclusive in-house brand Luxart, making them a desirable destination for designers and builders. Though the decisions are many, you can expect the most innovative, up-to-date products from all their brands, including Kohler and its premier line, Kallista. Hughes has been selected to distribute Kallista, Kohler’s most unique and unrivaled line of premium fixtures. Kallista is comprised of stunning, designerbased collections certain to satisfy the most luxurious tastes. Meticulously crafted using the finest materials and with exquisite detail, the line is found in very few high-end showrooms across the country. If you are looking for something distinctive unique and gorgeous in your home kitchen or bathroom, Kallista may be the perfect combination. Choosing the best fixtures for your home can be a highly personal experience, taking into account your lifestyle, personality and level of use. Customer service is a top priority with Hughes and Majestic Bath, ensuring all of these factors are tallied together to help you make the most informed decision while you’re in their showrooms. From the earliest days when Hughes started over 80 years ago, the culture is dedicated to making the customer happy. Equipped with years of experience and a variety of backgrounds, including plumbing and design, knowledgeable employees can help you find the perfect product or a creative solution to a problem. Their website provides tips for customers as you prepare for a visit to either of the showrooms. When beginning the process, it helps to have photographs of designs and styles that appeal to you. Research design sites and products on the Hughes Kitchen and Bath website before coming in and get an idea of what you think will fit your home. Most of all, relax and enjoy making every detail of your home something you can admire.v
Stop by the Hughes Kitchen and Bath showroom at 16235 Northcross Drive in Huntersville or visit their website at www.hugheskitchenandbath.com and see how they can help you turn your dreams into reality. Visit www.themajesticbath.com and don’t miss the grand re-opening of Hughes Kitchen and Bath in Huntersville August 15th. August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 49
Master p ie c e s Ma d e He r e
Experience a gallery where you are the artist. Where you can see, touch, and feel your home the
way you want it, right now. All the latest appliances. Gorgeous sinks and faucets. Brilliant lighting. Plus, the product expertise that makes it easy to turn your vision into reality.
FERGUSON.COM Charlotte 2000 South Blvd Ste 510 (704) 370-2020
Gastonia 2050 Remount Rd (704) 865-2100
Mooresville 185 Raceway Dr (704) 799-7999
Hickory 241 First Ave SE (828) 324-8006
Rock Hill 711 Riverview Rd (803) 329-5271 Š2013 Ferguson Enterprises, Inc.
Contributing Editor | Building a Better Home
Maintaining Happiness
trent haston
When it comes to a client’s needs, we want ANYTHING to be possible.
It is my belief that superior customer service leads to loyal, happy and lifelong clients, which is why it has been a top priority at my firm to get it perfect! However, good customer service and a great experience can only last as long as the job takes. Just recently we have started providing our clients a product that helps to keep the customer service available long after the job ends, with what we call a Home Maintenance Contract. A Home Maintenance Contract is a customized home inspection and services contract that is completed on a revolving or regular basis. All homes and homeowners are different, so tasks, inspections or timeframes vary. We simply review the home’s needs alongside the homeowner’s desire for service and execute. It can be as small as regularly inspecting and servicing vital mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. Or, we can include services like periodic roof inspections, gutter cleaning, termite or bug management, crawl
52 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
space inspections, pool services, garageAfter door or gate services, maid services, lawn maintenance – even down to evaluating and paying household service bills like power, cable, etc. Why do I think customers have found tremendous value in this array of ongoing services and even raved for more? 1. It adds value to your home and saves money. Just as a “Carfax” covers a vehicle’s history, the maintenance contract builds an ongoing dialogue that a homeowner can use as a selling tool when moving. It also diminishes reactive repairs by regularly and proactively inspecting the “usual suspects”. For example, inspecting a roof or cleaning gutters for several hundred dollars a year within the maintenance contract can prevent a major roof leak that costs several thousand dollars once the interior water damage is addressed. 2. It creates opportunity cost savings. Most of our clients are busy, whether with their careers,
hobbies, or families, so the more time they can spend earning their professional wage or spending time with their families, the better off they will be. 3. It becomes a convenient, one-stop-shop. Instead of having to figure out whom to call in an emergency or service situation and dealing with multiple service providers, there’s one number to call. We are currently building a technological platform to complement our service, so that the client can request services without having to even make a call. They can make a request online and we proactively communicate, manage and handle the need. 4. It provides savings through leverage. Though we charge a fee for the provided service, our buying power and experienced discernment saves the client and homeowner way more than we could or would ever charge. 5. It applies to second homes. Taking care of a primary residence is hard enough, but paying the bills and managing services at a vacation home can be simply overwhelming. Furthermore, how do you know the service is being done correctly, at all, or on par with cost? It’s nice to have trust in regular eyes and ears
good customer service and a great experience can only last as long as the job takes. managing your retreat. We do things like adjust the a/c prior to arriving, have the house cleaned before and after a visit, and even help with the grocery shopping. When it comes to a client’s needs, we want ANYTHING to be possible.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.
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 53
A+ Rating
Charlotte 5431 Monroe Rd. (704) 568-7600
Huntersville 9715 A Sam Furr Road (704) 896-9626
Matthews & Outlet Center 9405 East Independence Blvd (704) 708-4223
Pineville 11523-D Carolina Place Pkwy (704) 527-5510
I t ’s You r
dream
I t ’s You r
home
Cottage or Castle. R emodel
or new construction .
B u i l d o n Y o u r L ot o r O u r s D e s i g n /B u i l d C u s to m H o m e s G ua r a n t e e d B u d g e t & S ch e d u l e C u s to m A d d i t i o n s & R e m o d e l i n g W h o l e H o u s e R e n ovat i o n s C u s to m P o o l s & P o o l H o u s e s Financing Options O u t d o o r L i v i n g & E n t e rta i n m e n t A r e a s 2-10 H o m e B u y e r ’ s W a r r a n t y H o m e I m p rov e m e n t W a r r a n t y f ro m 2-10 HBW f o r r e m o d e l s a n d a d d i t i o n s The 2010 NC STARS Awards Best new custom home over $1 million 5000-10000 SF The 2009 Lake Norman Home Builders “Best in Show” for new custom home over $2 million
Visit our website to see a virtual tour and video on our company and homes.
The 2012 NC STARS Awards Best of Lake Winner
PO Box 77413 • Charlotte, NC 28271 • 704-843-8447 • www.zarcustomhomes.com • info@zarcustomhomes.com
Outside
together closer
By Brandy Snow
56 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
The Hottest Trends in Outdoor Kitchens More and more Americans are redefining their definition of take-out from grabbing a bite at the local hot spot, to literally taking their culinary talents out to the backyard. Now, nothing sounds as good as spending quality time cooking a fantastic meal in your own fully-functional outdoor kitchen. Here are the trendiest must-haves for any outdoor kitchen: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Oversized grills with multiple fuel capabilities (gas, charcoal, infrared and wood) Rotisserie Burners Refrigerators Stainless steel cabinetry and storage Lighting Space heating Wine coolers Granite countertops Ice makers Pizza oven Stylish cooking accessories
This past fall, Mary Beth Al-Hussaini decided she wanted to make a change to her backyard and researched some options for covering an existing patio area. She made a call to Sunmar Construction after viewing some of their completed projects in the same area as the AlHussaini’s Denver, North Carolina home. But when she talked with Luis and Clara Vasquez from Sunmar Construction, she received much more than simple expansion ideas. Instead, Mary Beth received valuable insight and decided to take her project a step further to create a versatile outdoor living area that could be both a focal point and a gathering place for her family and friends. In late November, a survey was completed and an engineer secured to draw up the renovation plans. From that point on, Sumnar managed the process until its completion. “We chose Sunmar based on their craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail,” says Mary Beth. “The process was seamless and easy. They even submitted the project for our HOA approval process.” The existing patio footprint was covered and steps were added down to a new open-air patio complete with a spa and gourmet outdoor kitchen. The kitchen featured high-quality amenities like a grill with side burner, a hibachi flat top, a pizza oven, a warming drawer, a refrigerator and a beverage cooler. An outdoor bar and seating area were also added, not only for the comfort of their family, but also as an ideal space to entertain friends and enjoy a meal together. Sunmar accented the high-end aesthetic of the outdoor oasis with three shades of travertine tiles and flagstone. The covered patio area features stained bead board and cedar beams which flow seamlessly into the existing craftsman style of the home.
“We use this space every day. If the weather is chilly, we put on a fire. If the weather is pleasant, we simply sit back and enjoy,” says Mary Beth. “The new outdoor space has significantly extended the footprint of our downstairs, but it’s done more than reform our home and yard. It’s given our family a favorite spot to relax and catch up at the end of the day, bringing us closer than ever before.”v If you’re ready to create your own outdoor oasis, contact Clara Vasquez at Sunmar Construction at 704-930-1250 or go online to www.sunmarconstruction.com.
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 57
essentials new products
The Gatsby Home 1.
Gatsby Cocktail Shaker, Crate & Barrel. www.crateandbarrel.com.
2.
Table Top Fan, Fanimation. Available locally through S.L. Hulett. www.fanimation.com.
3.
Nika Martinez “Golden Art Deco Green and Blue� Throw Pillow, Kess InHouse. www.kessinhouse.com.
4.
Aperitif Bar Cart, Hickory Chair. Available locally through Brock Moran Home. www.hickorychair.com.
5.
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3
Gisele Chandelier, Oly Studio. Available locally through Mrs. Howard. www.olystudio.com.
6.
Collins Bar, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. Available locally through Max & Co. www.mgbwhome.com.
7.
Ulysses Pendant, Arteriors Home. Available locally through Lucy & Co., The English Room, City Supply Co., Isabella, Luxe, Traditions, Southern Lights and Bedside Manor. www.arteriorshome.com.
8.
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Callia Diamond Deco Dessert Plate, Ralph Lauren Home. www.ralphlaurenhome.com. 6
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design find
Look for discounts and promotions at www. urbanhomemagazine.com. 58 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
After
Before
redesigning entries... 704-987-0777 www.clarkhalldoors.com 307-G W. Tremont Avenue
Custom Wood & Wrought Iron Entries Specializing in replacement of existing entries & one-of-a-kind designs
kitchens & baths
Counter Point
By Dana W. Todd
Did You Know? 60 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Quartz is...
u The world’s fourth hardest stone. u The second most common rock-forming mineral on earth. u Present in granite, sand, and metamorphic rocks.
Over the last 20 years, many new materials have arrived on the market for home construction and renovation. Sometimes it’s hard to break through the clutter to find the material that is right for the way your family lives. Gone are the days of laminate or solid surface materials as the only choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Those choices are still available today in a wider range of colors and textures, but the market has opened to include granite, quartz, recycled glass, porcelain tile, concrete, stainless steel and all types of homegrown and exotic woods. Britney Spear of Stabella, Inc., a stone fabrication shop with a network of installers, says quartz is growing in popularity, thanks to characteristics that make it home-friendly. Durability – Quartz ranks higher on the Mohs Hardness Scale than even granite, making it a great choice for families with children where cracking and chipping from rough use are a concern. Quartz countertops are comprised of 93 percent pure quartz, according to Spear, which increases durability. Granite sometimes has other minerals in it, which adds color but sometimes decreases strength. Sodalite, for example, adds a beautiful blue color to some granite slabs but is an inherently softer rock that decreases overall durability. Low Maintenance – Since quartz is non-porous, it is naturally stain-resistant to most materials including acids such as lemon juice. It can be cleaned and sterilized with any cleaner since the product won’t soak into the stone.
“Soap and water work fine on quartz, whereas other natural stones require special cleaners and sealers,” says Spear. Variety – There is a wide range of colors, sizes and edging options with quartz. Silestone® quartz, for example, carries 15 edge options and 60 color choices. Eco by Cosentino™ carries 10 colors and two textures. Versatile quartz is available in solid colors or with “movement” like granite slabs. “Altogether, the different quartz product lines contain more choices than granite, with both aggregated and veined options,” Spear says. Low Environmental Impact – Eco by Cosentino quartz is made of 75 percent recycled content, including recycled glass, mirrors, ceramics and vitrified ash. Silestone quartz lists low VOCs as one of its features and they both comply with LEED construction standards. Overall, quartz is a sustainable choice because it is not quarried in an environmentally invasive manner as other natural stone. “Quartz is a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms, including counters, desk areas, wet bars, tub surrounds and tile flooring,” says Spear. “Cosentino is working on adding UV filters, but for now lighter-colored quartz is acceptable in outdoor kitchens under cover of a roof.”v Stabella, formerly named Stone Systems of North Carolina, fabricates quartz countertops showcased in their showroom at 2889 Gray Fox Road in Monroe. Contact the store at 704-238-1659.
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 61
IDEAL HOME. IDEAL EXPERTS. IDEAL LIFESTYLE. Charlotte’s Largest Home Improvement Event
AUGUST 23-25 The Park
Expo and Conference Center 2500 East Independence Blvd. Charlotte, NC
Rethink. Remodel. Restyle. IDEAL Cooking Stage IDEAL Remodeling Stage IDEAL Farmer’s Market NARI Parade of PlayHomes
Discounted tickets online and register for a $1000 shopping spree!
704.376.6594
A Southern Shows Inc. Production
www.SouthernIdealHomeShow.com
:: Design :: Maintenance :: Installation :: Outdoor Living :: LANDSCAPING BY THE MORGAN LANDSCAPE GROUP
www.MorganLandscapeGroup.com :: 704 588 2292
Designer Spotlight: Amy Vermillion
by Anne Marie Ashley
WHY THE ROOM WORKS
Hastings Lamp, Arteriors Home. www.arteriorshome.com.
Cinchwaist Tray, Arteriors Home. www.arteriorshome.com.
We asked designer Amy Vermillion of Amy Vermillion Interiors to give us the rundown on one of her recently designed client spaces. We love the sweet, feminine feel of this sitting room and checked into how it all came together and why it works so well. “My client had two requests,” explains Amy. “She wanted to use her grandmother’s Victorian settees and she wanted the room to be completely different than the rest of her home.” This upstairs sitting room, reached by an elevator that goes to all three levels of the home, is a transition space between the bedroom and other floors of the house. “As a CEO of a major global company, her taste reflects her international travels and collections,” says Amy. “So for me to suggest a slightly feminine space with a modern garden for inspiration was a leap of faith for her.” Amy chose a rose, green and cream palette to be reminiscent of a floral scheme without being overtly “GARDEN INSPIRED.” The pillows on the settees are embroidered with a modern Pussy Willow pattern and she used an antique floral print from the client. The scalloped pendant is like a bloom and the rug is a custom silk and wool Tibetan in an arabesque
pattern reminiscent of leaves. The antique settees have carved leaves and a flower on the crests. “I had her grandmother’s heavy, Victorian settees re-finished in a cream matte lacquer and re-upholstered in a happy rose velvet,” says Amy. The ottoman is a custom piece designed by Amy in a cloverleaf shape and upholstered in a moccasin vinyl and a mini-kitchen in a custom built-in armoire was installed, with a microwave, sink and refrigerator. “She can have a cup of coffee and read or go to the adjoining room to watch television,” explains Amy. Custom window treatments in a tailored box pleat were added to balance the room and keep it from getting frilly, while the architectural feeling of Greek key on the banding adds to that. The heavy antiqued mirror in an Old World Italian frame combined with the Lisa Luby Ryan lamp piece lends an antiqued quality to the room. “On the walls leading into this room, we created a family portrait gallery,” says Amy. “My client is surrounded by the women in her family – multigenerational right down to her grandchildren. Lots of love in a cozy sanctuary.”v
64 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Ruby Clover Ottoman, Stewart Furniture. www.stewartfurniture.com.
Simple Scallop Chandelier, Barbara Barry. www.barbarabarry.com.
Images courtesy of Tim Buchman.
van cleef & arpels
charlotte SoUthParK Mall 704.442.7900
neiManMarcUS.coM
shades of
GREY Style GUIDE
Hade E. Robinson Jr.
Grey has been one of the hottest colors this year and these must-haves are available all over Nordstrom here at SouthPark. It’s the new neutral and to be on trend, pair it with jewel tones of amethyst or emerald, citrus tones of lemon, or tangerine. It goes from classic elegance to contemporary edgy. Accessorize with pops of bright colors or ground it with white, black, tans and browns. It’s even fashionable in paperback. In home interiors and fashion, the new exciting grey is here to stay.
2
3
1
4 5
1. WASHED STRETCH CANVAS PANT, DONNA KARAN. www.donnakaran.com. 2. FIFTY SHADES OF GREY, BOOK BY E.L. JAMES. www.amazon.com. 3. DOUBLE WRAP LOGO BRACELET, TORY BURCH. www.toryburch.com. 4. WAYNE DUFFEL BAG, JACK SPADE. www.jackspade.com. 5. GREY VEVITER EAU DE PARFUM, TOM FORD. www.tomford.com. Product images courtesy of Nordstrom. 66 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
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6. ROSA SMALL LEATHER SATCHEL, JIMMY CHOO. www.jimmychoo.com. 7. TAYLOR D’ORSAY PUMP, MANOLO BLAHNIK. www.manoloblahnik.com. 8. MARCO MONK STRAP LOAFER FOR MEN, MAGNANNI. www.magnanni.com. 9. LATTICE THROW, KENNEBUNK HOME. www.nordstrom.com. 10. BOLD BRACELET WATCH, 46MM FOR MEN OR WOMEN, MOVADO. www.movado.com.
Hade E. Robinson Jr. is the head personal stylist at Nordstrom SouthPark. Follow him on twitter @CLTStyleGuy or email him at charlottestyleguy@aol.com. August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 67
Inspire porcelai n T ile | Q u art z C o u n tertop D e S i g n S taff | C u stom Gra n ite F abricatio n S to n e & Glass M osaics I n stallatio n
1 1 2 0 0 C aroli n a P lace P ark w ay P i n e v ille , N C 2 8 1 3 4 7 0 4 . 5 4 1 . 8 4 5 3 | w w w . tilecollectio n . com
68 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Charlotte’s Newest 25,000 Sq. Ft. Home Decor Superstore is Now Open
Northlake Village ~ I-77 & Harris Blvd. | 7220 Smith Corners Blvd. | Charlotte, NC 28269
(704) 494-8801 | www.HomeSouthStores.com
Contributing Editor | Wired
Disappearing Act
Rene Robaina With today’s new solutions you can achieve an uncluttered and pleasant interior aesthtic that keeps technology, and (often) the mess that comes with it, completely out of sight.
No matter what degree of technology you use in your home, you have probably felt the frustration of trying to hide the unsightly wires, remotes, modems and routers, speakers and cables that make it all work. Thankfully, as technology has evolved, so have the devices for making home systems practically invisible. For more than 13 years I have been helping interior designers and architects keep home technology out of sight in their clients’ homes. Here are some of my favorite ways to make technology disappear. TV No one should see a black TV screen when it’s not in use. Consider storing your set behind framed artwork so that when you turn the television on, the artwork rolls up and out of the way. You can also consider a motorized lift cabinet that closes and hides the TV when its not in use. Want a television in your bathroom? Hide it behind the vanity mirror. When the set is turned off, you’ll never know its there.
70 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Wall Blemishes Your home probably has switches, thermostats and keypads on the entrance wall of most rooms. Lining the walls, these switches control a multitude of home essentials from your front door to your kitchen to your bedrooms. Too many and too confusing. One solution is the installation of simple-to-use touchscreens from which you control the lights, security, thermostat, floor heating, audio, video and more. We can even hide switches and program the home system to turn the lights on and off based on the time of day, room brightness and motion. Choose the design that works for you based on your lifestyle. Speakers Love surround sound and music but don’t want ugly speakers on the wall? Your music can be heard but not seen with speakers that disappear into painted drywall. The ugly black cube on the floor (the subwoofer) can be recessed into the wall or floor. There are many options for concealed speakers that will not compromise their performance.
Remotes As technology for the home becomes more sophisticated, the remotes that control it are also becoming increasingly difficult to use. Most people have a coffee table full of remotes to operate the TV, cable box, DVD player, music, etc. However, there is no need to have several remotes that no one in the house (except the kids) knows how to use. With one professionally installed and programmed remote that is easy-to-use, you can control everything in your home. You can even do this from your iPhone, Android, iPad or other tablet. Though we rely on technology to make our every-day lives easier, it doesn’t need to be an eyesore in an otherwise well organized home. With today’s new solutions you can achieve an uncluttered and pleasant interior aesthtic that keeps technology, and (often) the mess that comes with it, completely out of sight.v
Rene Robaina is president of Home Technology Solutions in Charlotte where he, along with his team, has designed and implemented home technology and entertainment systems for hundreds of customers. Reach him at 704-708-5126 or www.HomeTechnologySolutions.com.
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 71
Bringing the stonework of
Scotland to the carolinas
Sto n e, F i r e an d Wate r C r eat i o n s
•
D e si g n a n d C o n s t r u c t i o n
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ÂŽ Licensed contractors in NC and SC
StoneManRocks.com
704.616.7948
Hardscape
Design& Installation
TC Photos courtesy of Belgard Hardscapes
FREE ESTIMATES
704-798-2216
Pavers | Retaining Walls | Patios | Natural Stone | Masonry | Tree Work | Grading | Landscaping 74 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
World Class, Once in a Lifetime Fine Dining Experience Offered Nightly
• Private Rooms • Intimate Dinners
Zebra will pamper your p a l a te
• In Home Dinners • On or Off Premises • Corporate Receptions Personal Assistance or event planning contact: erik.davis@zebrarestaurant.net jim@zebrarestaurant.net
704.442.9525 4521 Sharon Road | Charlotte NC | www.zebrarestaurant.net
Charlotte’s most unique boutique specializing in brands such as Chanel,
Open Tues-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5 Closed Sun-Mon
Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Tory Burch, Chloe, and more!
Like | Follow us on For new Arrivals
The Courtyard in Dilworth | 2400 Park Rd Charlotte, NC 28203 | 704-375-1334 | jtposh.com August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 75
Custom Homes
Craftsman Customized By Brandy Snow
After living in Fort Mill for six years, Mike and Kathy Ziegler knew without a doubt that’s where they wanted to build their future – a place to raise their family and create sweet memories. They initiated a search for the perfect setting, buying a 1.01-acre wooded cul-de-sac lot in the Baxter Village River District and selected Zar Custom Homes to give life to the home of their dreams. “We wanted experts who were personable, had references and could deliver a custom home with character,” says Kathy. “We found that in Russell and Lisa Zavatsky of Zar Custom Homes.” The Ziegler’s sat down with Zar in August 2011 to discuss their specific requirements, and Russell suggested they meet with JJ Barja of
76 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Elite Design Group to design a custom home, working in all “musthaves”. Throughout the construction process, Lisa was there to keep the project on schedule and on budget, and project manager Dean Nieman kept the lines of communication open, corresponding with Mike weekly from clearing the lot to conducting the final walkthrough. The resulting home was a beautiful five bedroom and five and onehalf bath home with a host of custom features, including a craftsmanstyle exterior with cedar shake and siding cement board and Chestnut Grove stacked stone, which is repeated on the outdoor living area columns as well as an 80-foot, two-tier retaining wall in the backyard. The home’s interior is accented by exposed rough-sawn cedar beams in
“Our home is truly unique because it was designed from scratch – literally with a pencil and piece of graph paper. There is no other house like it, and Zar Custom Homes truly gave us a home to fit our active lifestyle.”
the great room and home office, built-in shelving and storage options, solar tubes to increase available daylight in the master bath and closet, various countertops in quartz, granite, travertine and Italian marble, and a six-zone, whole-house audio system. A gourmet kitchen features an oversized island countertop with all gourmet appliances including a Thermador stovetop with a centrally located water spout. The basement boasts 12-foot ceilings and is outfitted with a full home gym and temperature-controlled storage. A music room wrapped in windows houses the family’s grand piano and Aeratis flooring on the porches give the Ziegler’s home the desired old farmhouse feel. Since moving in, the Zieglers spend much more time at home,
enjoying their three children and making memories in their own little piece of heaven. “This area allows us to have a custom home and be part of a great family neighborhood with tons of amenities,” says Kathy. “Our home is truly unique because it was designed from scratch – literally with a pencil and piece of graph paper. There is no other house like it, and Zar Custom Homes truly gave us a home to fit our active lifestyle.”v
For more information on Zar Custom Homes, contact Lisa Zavatsky at 704-843-8447 or go online to www.zarcustomhomes.com.
August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 77
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Wine Cellars
Design & Construction • Residential & Commercial 78 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Charlottes Most Complete Outdoor Grill Specialty Store Charlotte Grill Co. has over 15 years experience in the outdoor and Big Green Egg market. Full inventory of Eggcessories, rubs and marinades, charcoal and grills. Come see us today and like our facebook page for specials and upcoming events!
327-G W. Tremont Ave. • 704-332-8447 • Open 10-6 M-F/11-3 Sat.
www. charlottegrillco.com
864.304.3670 CellarsSouth.com
“Best Brunch in Charlotte”
Your vision. Our expertise. Unlimited possibilities.
— Charlotte Magazine
Come and try our New Menu!
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.
Uncover the possibilities in your home. Contact us at:
704.372.2696 HopedaleBuilders.com
Come in Mon. through Wed. 5pm-7pm and receive a
New cocktail/signature drink menu
free appetizer or dessert when you buy one at regular price.
More offers online at www.urbanhomemagazine.com
704-376-2242
1911 Central Ave, Charlotte, North Carolina www.luludinewine.com
Lunch | Dinner | Brunch O p e n 7 d ay s a w e e k
245 Clanton Rd. | Charlotte NC 28217 | 704-522-0024 9-5 Tuesday – Saturday englishmansfurniture.com August/September 2013 Urban Home Charlotte 79
ME
A ,V
OWS OF DAN AD
08 2013 24120
DAY TRIPPING
Meadows of Dan,
Virginia
“Virginia is for lovers,” or so says the state motto, and we’re pretty sure with beauty the likes of Meadows of Dan, it’s easy to see why. With sweeping views of the lush Blue Ridge Mountains, shopping, restaurants and a resident resort and spa, Meadows of Dan puts its own motto – “A Simpler Place in Time” – in to practice.
WHAT TO DO
Primland This eco-conscious and thoughtful resort is the ultimate escape for world-class golf, fine dining and luxury, not to mention the breathtaking landscape and shooting sports. The altitude and unusually clear sky at night make it perfect for stargazing at their observatory and their ultra-luxe spa has just about any treatment you can dream up. Folk Fair Every August, the Folk Fair brings visitors from near and far to enjoy indigenous folk music, classic local food, regional crafts and entertainment of all kinds. Enjoy seasonal peaches from the orchards, plays, historical demonstrations and crafters. Mabry Mill One of the most photographed locations in America, Mabry Mill is the historic water-powered gristmill, sawmill and nearby blacksmith shop. Get a view of pioneer life along the Blue Ridge Parkway with self-guided tours including the sorghum mill, soap making kettle and an old-time whiskey still.
80 Urban Home Charlotte August/September 2013
Sweet Mountain Laurel Loop Located along the southern portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the loop offers breathtaking sites on public and private lands, along with recreational parks, wineries and cozy bed and breakfasts.
WHERE TO SHOP
Poor Farmer’s Market A wide selection of products makes the Poor Farmer’s Market a unique experience and true reflection of the town. Located in the heart of the Meadows, the place is filled with local jams, jellies, candies and foods alongside handmade pottery, Amish furniture and a killer deli. Dan River Books It’s more than a bookstore with a wide selection, Dan River Books also shows and sells works of local quilters, wood turners and potters – all of which are still residents of the Meadows.
WHERE TO EAT
Mabry Mill Restaurant On the property of the historic mill is the Mabry Mill Restaurant serving favorites they’re famous for – buckwheat cakes, country ham and Virginia barbeque. Elements at Primland For a true fine dining experience, head over to Elements at the Primland Lodge for dinner. Using local, fresh ingredients for an inspired menu, Elements offers wine pairings with each course and incredible atmosphere. Dinner jacket suggested for gentleman. Châteu Morrisette The nearby winery at Châteu Morrisette offers fine dining in an Old World atmosphere. Enjoy a varied menu that includes duck egg rolls, cinnamon chili rubbed pork tenderloin and shrimp and grits, to name a few. Reservations recommended.
Images courtesy of www.primland.com and www.virginia.org.
Now you can control everything in your home from anywhere
Comfort & Convenience
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Taking Your Family Into Tomorrow
704-708-5126 www.HomeTechnologySolutions.com | Sales@HomeTechnologySolutions.com
Making parents, kids and dogs happy since 1976 Call about our current swimming pool specials!
POOL BY DESIGN
217 Fairwood Avenue Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 3DESIGN 333-7446 poolbydesign.com
Two great names have joined forces under one family.
Kitchen & Bath Collection HUNTERSVILLE 16235 Northcross Dr Huntersville, NC 28078 704.892.6466 www.hugheskitchenandbath.com/Huntersville
Kitchen and Bath Showroom
Southpark 621 South Sharon Amity Rd. Charlotte, NC 28211 704.366.9099 www.themajesticbath.com
Two convenient Kohler/Kallista Showrooms
We craft the luxuries of life..
the time is right, we’re ready to bring style & value together in your home – the kitchen, bedroom, bath – wherever. Converging style & value since 195O. 7O4.334.5477
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Award winning home renovators and builders with a talent for details.
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Home Builders Association of Charlotte
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