Feb/March 2012 Issue - Charlotte,NC by Home Design & Decor Magazine

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FEBRUARY/March 2012

CHARLOTTE URBAN

Designs | Lifestyles | Fashions | Improvements

99 Years of StylE

& Counting 2012 Color ForecastinG Resolutely Organized

Jim Schmid Photography

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HOME CHARLOTTE URBAN

CONTENTS

february/march 2012

Designs | Lifestyles | Fashions | Improvements Reaching 180,000 homes annually

FEB/MARCH 2012

VOL 12 NO 1

urbanhomemagazine.com Publisher Mark Herrmann Managing Editor Anne Marie Ashley Editorial Director Tammy Wanchisn Writers Nancy Atkinson Ginger Sprinkle Dana Todd Sales Kathleen Hands Art Direction Harriet McDowall PageCreations Photography Jim Schmid Photography jimschmid.com Contributing Editors Trent Haston Beth Keim Hade Robinson Production Administrator Shelley Kemper Direct Mail Quad Graphics Phone 704-332-1504 Fax 704-973-5685 Email: comments@urbanhomemagazine.com Website: urbanhomemagazine.com All contents copyright 2012, Casey Communications Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent from publisher. Mention of any product or service does not constitute endorsement from Urban Home Magazine. The information contained in this publication is deemed reliable from third party sources, but not guaranteed. Casey Communications Inc. does not act as an agent for any of the advertisers in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified remodeling, home furnishings or home improvement firm based on your own selection criteria. Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Charlotte Urban Home Magazine, will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate which is a violation of the Fair Housing Act. All real estate advertising in Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Charlotte Urban Home Magazine, is subject to the Fair Housing Act which states “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.”

trends

departments

14 Showcase Home 99 Years of Style and Counting

why hire a? 34 Why Hire a Professional Organizer

30 Organization Trends Resolutely Organized

essentials 48 New Products for Your Kitchen and Bath 58 New Products for Your Home

50 Decorating Trends Comfy Cozy Throws and Blankets 60 Color Trends The IT Colors for 2012

features improvements

26 More Storage Than Meets the Eye 40 Home Beauty Traverses the Carolinas

kitchens & baths 44 Inspired by Nature

lifestyles

54 The Furniture Dream Team

outside

66 It’s Hip to be Square

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 February/MARCH 2012

why the room works? 64 Laura Casey Interiors day tripping 70 Greenville SC luxe essentials 76 Luxe Essentials

contributing editors 22 room service: An Artist’s Eye

beth keim

building a better home: trent haston

Attention to Detail

74 style guide: hade robinson 10 Wardrobe Essentials

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Style

years

and counting By Anne Marie Ashley

14 Schmid Urban Photography Home Charlotte Jim

February/MARCH 2012

When we asked Dorothy Smith how she would describe the style of her home, she seemed a little perplexed. “I just picked stuff I liked and left the rest to the designer,” she explains. We agree, this might be the best description of the Smith’s style – comfortable and well designed. The couple knew when they purchased the home that it would have to be added onto in order to accommodate their family and their desire for open space.

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 15

16 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

ith the help of architect Ken Pursley, the result was a house full of light and air that fit seamlessly into the rich history of Hermitage Road in midtown Charlotte. It looks as if every part of the home was there when it was built in 1913 and the Smiths have created a new space for their family that they cherish. We asked the homeowners to tell us a little about their style and the changes they made to their home.

UH: Give us a little background on your home. Smiths: It was built in 1913 and was originally a two-story home with an attic. With a teenage boy who has two sisters, we knew we wanted to give him a space of his own. So we asked Ken to modify the third floor for our son. Also, the one thing the house was lacking was a family space, so we knew we wanted to add that. UH: How did you find it? Smiths: We were looking for a home in Charlotte with a Realtor, but just happened to ride down Hermitage Road and see the sign in the front. We went to look at it and fell in love. We really wanted a home with a lot more light and space, taller ceilings and bigger windows and this fit the bill, with a few changes we planned to make. UH: What was the home like when you purchased it? Smiths: The previous owner had redone the bathrooms and some of the electrical and plumbing work to update it, but we knew we wanted to add on a large family space and update the look. We didn’t touch any of the older parts of the home with new construction, except for converting the old kitchen into a mudroom. The attic was the playroom when we purchased it, but we moved that area to the basement, which seemed to fit better with our lifestyle. UH: Tell us a little about the renovation process and timeline. Smiths: We spoke to Ken Pursley even before we officially owned the house and told him what we wanted. We had seen his work in other houses and respected his talent a great deal, plus we loved his personality. It just seemed like a great fit and we started working with him right off the bat. The kitchen was the primary space we wanted to start on and get completed as soon as possible. But we also wanted to add a fifth bedroom, which turned into our son’s space on the third floor. I was looking for a huge family area that combined the kitchen with the living room and Ken really took the lead on coming up with the design – he made it happen. The end product was so perfect that I started to feel like it was all my idea to begin with! The entire construction process took about a year, and the interior design was done as we went along. February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 17

UH: Talk to us about the interior design and working with Teri Thomas Interiors. Smiths: Teri worked with me on my previous home and I LOVE her style. We also hired Lucy and Company to do the girls bedroom/bathrooms to tie everything together in the end. Beth has such a cute children’s room style. We wanted a very clean, uncluttered look that mixed contemporary elements with what we already had. We did a lot of the decorating before the construction was done because I was so impatient!

UH: What’s your decorating secret? Smiths: (Laughs) Hire an interior designer and have great artwork!

UH: What are your favorite places to shop for things for your home? Smiths: I am not really a big shopper to be honest, but we travel a lot and while we do, we pick things up as we go. For the most part, Teri chose the accessories to compliment her design, as she often does. For local stores though, I LOVE Luxe and Decade.

Lucy & Company.................................704-342-6655 .......................www.lucyandcompany.com Pursley Architecture...........................704-334-6500 ...................www.pursleyarchitecture.com Teri Thomas Interiors.........................704-376-6038 ...................www.terithomasinteriors.com

18 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

UH: What’s your favorite room in the house? Smiths: The Garden Room, which is the new living area, and my office. Our whole family adores the front porch area though. Ken built the huge swing you see out there and it’s a family favorite spot.v

Resources

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

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 19

Embrace Creativity

New Sh o wro o m O p e n i n g Fe b r u a ry 2012 2425 Sout h B lvd , C ha rlo tte , NC 2 8 2 0 3

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contributing editor

Beth Keim

room service

When I am asked to help in the home of an artist I admire, I am thrilled for many reasons but the primary one is because of their great eye for color and style. With that said, I know that I can take things to the next level and it won’t scare them off! One such project came across my desk recently. The home of Windy and Blake O’Connor is truly a gem and since it is approaching a major renovation, Windy asked for our help in Lily Rooke’s space, her 12-year-old daughter’s bedroom. Lily Rooke loves orange and low and behold, it’s the Pantone color choice for 2012 - like I said, stylish crew at the O’Connor house! Pantone has been known as the “global authority” on color for the design industry and this year’s color choice is “Tangerine Tango.” We had two starting points in this design - a rug, with its blues and taupes, and a set of cream-colored furniture, somewhat cottage in style. Jena Strange, recent graduate and new full-time employee at Lucy and Company, chose what was ultimately the key

An Artist’s Eye

Urban Home Charlotte

February/MARCH 2012

ingredient in this design - the wallpaper! The strong and graphic print of the wallpaper worked in so many ways. It fulfilled my client’s desire for orange, the print with its metallic threads was youthful in this application and it visually bounced light around the room. We then decided to add a second wallpaper to up the interest level even more and lighten what could have been a too-dark room. In my mind, this wallpaper full of birds related to the style of the furniture and when mixed with the orange and blues, it left you feeling “in the trees” through those beautiful and original casement windows. Perfect! With our wallpapers chosen, we moved onto the bed. Rather than replacing it, we gave it a facelift. We used another graphic design, pulling out the blues of the rug and created an inset following the curves of the bed. We used a lighter version of blue for the paint in her study nook to contrast the bright paper and filtered in another two fabric patterns for pillows. This is all an excellent class in layering patterns and colors. Mixing cottage style furniture with the modern

look of a bubble chair works well, as does the unique art and lighting components. When I work with orange, I often like to use a blue with warm overtones. These two colors are completely opposite on the color wheel and a good rule of thumb when decorating is to reference the wheel and pick opposite colors. Take a look at the color wheel sometime and you will see that pink is opposite green, a color combination we all know works so beautifully! Don’t immediately discard sophisticated fabrics and papers for the youngest members of the household. While they may seem “too grown up”, they will stand the test of time and when mixed with more youthful accessories, it will be age appropriate with style that lasts.v Beth Keim is the owner of Lucy and Company, a full-service interior design firm located at 1009 East Boulevard. They can be reached at 704-3426655 or at www.lucyandcompany.com.

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 23

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more storage improvements

than meets the eye

“Options range from a trend of installing man caves complete with entertainment systems and bars in the garage, to setting up plant-potting areas or perhaps a craft center.”

Urban Home Charlotte

With many homeowners opting to downsize or remain in their current residences, uncovering or adding more usable space is a common quest. The optimal goals are to enhance the quality of life as well as the home’s value. Welldesigned, personal storage solutions accomplish both – from garages and home offices to closets and pantries. While aiming to overcome organizational challenges may stump a homeowner, there are professionals who excel at stepping in to mix your style with perfectly engineered designs customized for any area. Realizing organization means more than tidy closets, Carolina Custom Spaces (formerly Premier Garage) owner

February/MARCH 2012

by Ginger Sprinkle

Jim Riggs, has a passion for simplifying clients’ lives. To this end, he has expanded from predominantly garage projects to include all types of indoor storage solutions. Partnering with long-established and nationally known ORG – a division of The Stow Company – Jim now offers a complete array of organization solutions comprising closet organizers, garage storage systems, pantry organizers, wall beds, laundry storage, entertainment centers, mudroom storage and more. “Garages are a great place to start because they are the most underutilized home space,” Jim says. “Options range from a trend of installing man caves complete with entertain-

ment systems and bars in the garage, to setting up plant-potting areas or perhaps a craft center.” Garage Storage 101 Let’s take a look at how to use this foundational area to de-clutter your home: Map a plan on paper before moving heavy items. Divide by zones: indoor-outdoor transition, household overflow, short or long term, everyday yard gear and hobbies. Then sort and assign to spaces. Treat it as an entryway. For many, this is the primary home entry, whether it’s where you unload groceries or direct visitors. Add surfaces for setting, hooks for hanging, storage benches and a rug or scraper to cut the dirt or snow tracked inside. Find your station. Whether it’s for sports, gardening or auto work, create a hobby center directly opposite the large garage door. Include a well-lit work surface so you can see what’s at hand. Dim garages hold hidden hazards, so install long-lasting, energy-efficient bulbs overhead. Clear the floor. If you start placing items on the floor, your efforts will nosedive - as a few items often turn into heaps. Add stable wall shelves or cabinets. Customize the layers. Store children’s items close to the ground, with things you’ll need to share at mid-level. Stow adult items such as chemicals, breakables or sharp tools overhead. If you’re ready to tidy up and find more storage space, contact Carolina Custom Spaces to experience home organization that results in peace of mind and more time for what’s most important in life. v For more information on Carolina Custom Spaces visit www.carolinacustomspaces.com or call 704-561-3334 to set up an appointment with a design consultant.

ORG

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 27

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organization n Trends

organized RESOLUTELY

by Anne Marie Ashley

Ushering in a New Year usually means a long list of resolutions for the coming months and on average, only 8 % of those resolutions actually stick. Then again, making a life change can be hard to keep up with. We all know that dieting usually tops the list of promises you may make to yourself in the New Year, but did you know that “getting organized” falls somewhere in the middle of the Top Ten list of resolutions every year? A recent survey by the National Organization of Professional Organizers (NAPO) indicates that 96% of respondents feel that they could gain more time at home if they were better organized and 91% claimed the same in their professional lives. Whether you want your home organized enough that you can invite someone over on a whim, or your office organized enough that you can find the stapler when you need it, getting organized is a great goal. These tips and trends for organization will get you started, whether it’s your garage, your closet or your home office. Read on.

“Keep the three golden rules of organization in mind: visibility, accessibility and flexibility.“ The Container Store

Closet and Storage Concepts

The Container Store

30 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

It’s A Process, Not An Event According to Randy Tallman, product and marketing director for ORG, a leading custom storage space supplier, “People are staying put longer and entertaining at home more often. This is driving a stronger desire for storage systems that not only improve the home’s appearance but also support homeowners’ active lifestyles.” Renee Carlson at Charlotte-based Carolina Custom Spaces adds, “Organizing doesn’t have to look like Martha Stewart did it. I’m finding more clients that want a clean and modern look to designs.” No matter which area you are organizing or how much space you have to work with, there are some simple things you can do to make strides in the process. We asked some experts at The Container Store in Charlotte if they had some tips for organizing and they offered some advice. “If you have several areas in your home you want to get under control, start with just one.” Whatever your priorities, select one area and stick to it. Many attempts at organization fail when the task of cleaning up the entire house seems daunting and folks give up. When you complete one area, celebrate and then move on to the next.

According to Certified Professional Organizer (CPO), Barry Izsack, most home organization tasks fail because people cannot stick to a system that works for them. “Most people are looking for a magic bullet,” says Barry. “But getting organized doesn’t happen over night. It’s a process.” The Container Store adds “depending on the area to be organized, you should schedule a couple of hours each day to work on it.” Getting a garage whipped into shape will take more time than it takes to organize a linen closet. Be Creative With Your Space If you’re in need of more storage space, think creatively about additional areas that you can put to work. Prime examples include over doors and underneath beds. These areas are valuable real estate in your home and are often overlooked. Homeowners using garages as catch-alls for everything BUT the cars have made these highly functional spaces completely un-functional and a madhouse for clutter. Carolina Custom Spaces, Closet and Storage Concepts, and Closets By Design are local resources that can help you design the space with extensive flexibility. With the right planning it can be transformed into a full-fledged man cave, a hobby station, an entertainment zone or overflow storage – while still accommodating the family cars. If you don’t have a lot of room to work with, a surefire way to instantly create more space is to go “up”, suggests The Container Store. For the mudroom, Carolina Custom Spaces suggests laying out your space using elevation zones: reserve high areas for seasonal or lightweight items and things you want to keep out of children’s reach. Keep items

you’ll need to share at mid-level, and use lower areas for children. By adding additional shelves to a single shelf, or by using containers that stack atop one another, you can divide the vertical space and make efficient use of the area you have to work with. Turn Products Into Multi-Taskers Barry Izsack suggests using adaptable products for different uses. For example, clear storage boxes can be used for organizing and identifying your shoes in your closet, but also for storing gadgets in the kitchen or garage. Use a Lazy Susan in the kitchen for spices, and in the bathroom storage cabinet for medications and small toiletries. The common advice among all organization experts is to keep the three golden rules to organization in mind: visibility, accessibility and flexibility. Choose containers that are either transparent or that you can easily label for visibility. Keep items that you use most easily and readily accessible to save time. Finally, select a storage system that can adapt to your changing needs. v

National Resources:

NAPO – National Organization of Professional Organizers................................www.napo.net ORG Home Organization......................................................................... www.homeorg.com

Local Resources:

Carolina Custom Spaces..................704-561-3334................www.carolinacustomspaces.com Closet & Storage Concepts...............704-525-6515..........www.closetandstorageconcepts.com Closets by Design............................704-588-7272.........................www.closetsbydesign.com The Container Store........................704-512-0260......................www.thecontainerstore.com

QUICK TIPS Kitchen • Store like-items together such as baking pans, electrical appliances, plastic containers, pots and pans, and large platters and bowls.

ORG

The Container Store

ORG

• Organize based on spaces used. Place glasses near the refrigerator, for example, and snacks in a convenient drawer or cupboard.

Play Room • Place labeled bins and boxes on lower shelves within childrens’ reach. • Provide low hooks to hang up sweaters, pajamas, jackets, book bags, etc.

Closets • Pare down your wardrobe to clothes you always use, donate those you don’t. • Hang like-items together for easy access-shirts together, pants together, dresses, etc.

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 31

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why hire

A Professional

Organizer

“The number one difficulty people face when trying to remain organized in their home is the inability to stick to a system, which causes them to continually fail.”

We accumulate so many things over the course of our dayto-day life, from extra change, pens and pencils, pads of paper and boxes to clothes, tools and items that hold sentimental value. Usually we drop them in closets, entryways, garages and desks. Getting these things organized in your home may seem like an easyenough task, so why do so many of us struggle with organization? We spoke with Barry Izsack, an Austin-based professional organizer and owner of Arranging It All , to find out how a professional organizer can make your life easier. “My mantra,” says Barry, “is that getting organized is not about buying product, it’s about finding a system and sticking to it. Even a crude system works, if you can stick to it.”

by Anne Marie Ashley

decide which one to hire. If you prefer to meet your organizer in person before making a decision, some offer free consultations, while others may charge a fee, which is applied to their bill if they are hired. • Are you a Certified Professional Organizer (CPO)? • What services do you provide and what are your areas of specialization? • What results can I expect from your service? • How do you charge for your services and do you have a contract?

What Can A Professional Organizer Do For Me? The number one difficulty people face when trying to remain organized in their home is the inability to stick to a system, which causes them to continually fail. Hiring a professional organizer can help you identify the system that works best for you and not only implement it, but stick with it. “A great professional organizer will organize first, dictating the products you need after,” says Barry. “Some professional organizers offer a wide range of services, while others limit their practice to a specialized niché”. Ask The Right Questions Consider interviewing several professional organizers before you

34 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

Where Can I Find A CPO? For most, the best place to find a certified professional organizer is the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO). On the NAPO website, you can search by organizing-specialty and geographic location. You will be provided with a list of names and contact information for professional organizers who match your selected criteria. What Will This Cost Me? “As with most professions, you will find that fees vary widely based on experience, credentials, geographic location and competition,” mentions Barry. Many professional organizers charge by the hour, while others will charge by the project. A professional organizer should look at your situation objectively and provide the support and encouragement needed to get you where you want to be.v

Barry J. Izsak is a past president of the National Association of Professional Organizers and founder of ARRANGING IT ALL in Austin, Texas. Visit his web site at www.ArrangingItAll.com or www.napo.net. SM

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contributing editor At Andrew Roby, we spend a lot of time with our clients, pinpointing exactly what they want from their finished product down to the details. The results of focusing on this step can be seen in the numerous awards we’ve won in 2011. Here, I wanted to outline the features of three of our award-winning projects. Trent Haston

building a better home

Attention to detail

Urban Home Charlotte

“While winning awards may be the goal of some businesses, our goal at Andrew Roby is to bring to life our clients’ detailed vision, producing quality craftmanship that will last them a lifetime. Getting recognition for that is just icing on the cake.”

February/MARCH 2012

Farmhouse Style with Eclectic Edge This style recalls days when mom would hang baskets around the kitchen, but avoids looking that dated. Instead, traditional oak floors are crowned by 4-inch stained wood beams. The cabinets and refrigerator feature wood panels for a farm look and handmade elements like the bronze light fixture and copper stove hood stand up nicely alongside the oil-rubbed bronze hardware and sink. The unexpected pop is a stainless-steel cooktop. Granite countertops unite the kitchen’s brown tones, while the popular small can-lighting is used once more, with hidden lighting to accentuate. This time, the subway tile backsplash is laid in a vertical joint for an eclectic flair. This house won in the $80-$120,000 category.

Arts and Crafts Meets Eclectic A sofa in the kitchen? Why not? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the heart of a home and this unexpected addition creates fun, comfortable seating. This room features wideplank wood ceilings painted light green for a pronounced shadow line. Elongated cabinets reach the 10-foot ceiling, meeting 4-inch crown molding and the exposed hinges are accompanied by flush inset doors highlighting cabinet framing. The marble backsplash and stone countertops continue the clean look, while painted hardwood floors keep it fresh.

The 1950s-style swing door, inset cabinet doors and farm sink extend the look throughout the kitchen. Appliances flush to the cabinetsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; facings add modern flair and the lighting is trendy in recessed cans. Under-cabinet lights are installed with outlets hidden out-of-sight. This kitchen of Ramsey Neale and Michael Lyons, designed in combination by Lindsey Harper and Meyer Greeson Paullin Benson, won in the $100,000+ category.

Contemporary/Arts and Crafts/Funk Dr. Adam and Sheila Spitz wanted to maximize space, so Shelia employs an island on wheels, thick crown molding and strategically placed small-can lighting to complement a smaller area. Glass cabinet doors provide an artistic touch alongside a contemporary farm sink. Cabinet doors feature an overlay for clean lines, but base cabinets are contemporary with sleek lines accentuated by built-in, flush appliances. 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.

Trendy white cabinets allow you to go contemporary or crafty and a flash of old-style funk appears in ceiling wallpaper. Under-cabinet lights, granite countertops with zebra stripes, subway glass tiles on the backsplash and 16-inch brown floor tiles complete the look, while mirrored pantry doors give the illusion of more space. This kitchen won in the $40-$80,000 category.

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 37

“Keeping Charlotte Green”

Design • Installation • Outdoor Living • Maintenance

www.morganlandscapegroup.com • 704.588.2292 Landscaping by The Morgan Landscape Group

YOUR HOME’S NEW MUSICAL NERVE CENTER The beautifully crafted BeoSound 5 Encore is the ultimate window into your music library. Effortlessly flip through your complete album collection, and delight in the pure music inside. Listen to crisp notes soar out of your stereo in high bandwidth, true to the original recording. You will rediscover songs you forgot you loved, and feel the chills you got the first time the music met your ears. • Connect your music with an external NAS or hard-drive, USB stick or smartphone • Easy and intuitive three button navigation • Access more than 13,000 international radio stations

Visit our local store to experience BeoSound 5 Encore.

Bang & Olufsen South End 1700 Camden Road Charlotte, NC 28203 704 372 7375 Tel. info@beoclt.com Email www.bang-olufsen.com/southend

improvements

Home Beauty Traverses

the carolinas

40 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

by Ginger Sprinkle

Homeowners are not the only ones who experience the happiness and pride that comes with building a dream home or remodeling a current residence that meets demanding expectations. On the other side of the coin is the satisfaction a builder receives from knowing he has delivered on every element, and then some. With this in mind, one of the crucial aspects of the process is partnering with an astute builder who pays attention to every detail to make it all happen. Jim Benham, president of Charlotte-based Benham Builders, knows the equation well. “Our goal in each home we design, build or remodel is to create something special -- a space that functions at a high level,” he says. “We must be sensitive to designing a space efficiently, with the activities that it’s meant to accommodate in mind. It must be eyecatching and attractive, taking full advantage of its potential, but most importantly it must bring people together in easy harmony, providing a seamless backdrop for their activities.” When Piper Glen residents Tom and Polly Fenig embarked on building their new permanent home in Beaufort, SC, they were familiar and impressed with Jim’s work in Charlotte. Teaming up seemed natural and the results are nothing short of a showpiece. “The home was truly a combined effort from design through construction,” says Beaufort Project Manager Jimmy Benham. “It was a pleasure working with the Fenigs and the result was what we strive for with every project -- an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone involved.” Jim and Jimmy, the father and son team, agree that the most important take-

away from each project is being able to surpass a client’s expectations. An alliance between the Fenigs, Benham Builders and their Charlotte home designer resulted in a house that captures each and every detail requested. “They built our home as though it was truly their own,” Tom says. “The level of detail is such, that every day I find a new surprise previously unnoticed.” The crowning jewel in this unique standing-seam, tin-roofed home is a stunning windowed cupola that tops out at 40 feet above the finished first floor. The house is a study in elegance, showcasing the exceptional use of indigenous design and materials, natural light and outdoor living areas. Were the homeowners happy? “Benham Builders is a highly experienced and creative builder who tells it like it is, with vision and taste,” Tom says. “For me, they are the only choice to consider. Our experience was so positive that if we were to build again, we would make only one call.” For homeowners interested in remodeling, Benham Builders is also uniquely qualified with a portfolio consisting of furniture and cabinet design, whole house renovations, kitchens and baths, additions and a great deal of structural work - including many historic renovations in and around Richmond, VA, Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC. v For more information on Benham Builders visit www.benhambuilders.com or call 704-363-2940.

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 41

Biggers Since 1985

Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading outdoor

design build firm

Hardscapes Softscape Maintenance

pools | pool houses | patios | outdoor kitchens | fireplaces

420 Hwy 24/27 West | Midland, NC 28107 | 704-888-4789 | www.biggerslandscape.com

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Renovations

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Kitchens & Baths

44 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

nature

Inspired by

Choosing countertop material for the kitchen is an important decision. It will determine the overall look and feel of the room for years to come and will be subject to all kinds of wear and tear. With inspiration from nature, Silestone by Cosentino - the world leader in quartz surfacing - recently announced two new countertop series: Nebula and Galactic. Between the two collections, over 12 new colors are available. The Nebula collection, with six colors to choose from, takes its inspiration from the celestial nebulae, a phenomenon characterized by a supernatural light. A standardized depth of color and movement, the uniformity of the veins in the pattern and the earthy hues characterize this series. Colors range from soft white with grey veins, called Lyra, to a dark black with golden and silver veins, called Doradus. “The unique aesthetic creates movement through veining and adding depth to any kitchen or bath,” said Ami Holley, Sales Manager for Stone Systems of North Carolina. “Nebula makes a sophisticated design statement creating a marble like finish. These deep base colors are distinctive, providing uniformity of veins throughout the surface and earthy tones of celestial rocks. The Nebula Colors are available in a polished finish.” The Galactic Series is Silestone’s premier natural quartz color line that features earthy hues with a unique speckled pattern finish. It comes in six refreshing colors that are inspired by the natural movement of

by Anne Marie Ashley

stones and galactic rocks with color hues ranging from brown and grey to black and cream. “This series offers unparalleled color flow and movement,” says Holley. “Each slab is divinely unique, allowing designers and home owner’s to select in-depth and uniform patterns with huge flexibility in pairing with kitchen decor.” Silestone is often lauded for its aesthetics, functionality, and its durable nature. It has been featured in high profile design projects including the House Beautiful and Town & Country Setai 5th Avenue apartments, the Esquire Ultimate Bachelor Pad in LA, and the Elle Décor Showhouse in San Francisco. Silestone natural quartz products are non-porous and never needs to be sealed. It is easy to clean and has high scratch, stain, and heat resistance. Silestone is also proven to be a cleaner and safer countertop. It offers a unique combination of built-in antimicrobial protection that safely fights the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew along with the assurance of GREENGUARD certification for clean air quality, and National Sanitation Foundation certification (NSF 51) for safe food preparation.v For more information, call Stone Systems of North Carolina at 704-238-1659 or visit them online at www.stone-systems.com or www.cosentinonorthamerica.com. Silestone quartz is available nationally in over 65 colors and offers a 15-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 45

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

S t o n e , F ir e a n d W a t e r C r e a t i o n s

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Bringing the stonework of

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essentials

new products

Kitchen & Bath 1.

Designed by award-winning furniture designer Thomas O’Brien and inspired by an antique worktable, this island brings superb versatility and function to kitchens of any style, from traditional to modern. Hickory Chair’s master woodcrafters build it in the USA with a solid ash frame for exceptional strength and beauty. Williams-Sonoma, www.williams-sonoma.com.

Sectioned-off enamel petals spin around a sleek green center with brass accents. Anthropologie, www.anthropologie.com. Sleek lines, distinctive matte-black finish and cutting-edge technology define the new Jason Wu collection for Brizo. With a full range of equally stunning accessories, together, it’s a collection worthy of the Brizo and Jason Wu names. Hughes Supply, www.hughessupply.com Charlotte: 704-845-5970. Huntersville: 704-892-6466.

Any wall or floor can become the focus of the room with the Sunflower pattern which mixes polished absolute black granite with honed white carrara marble. Custom sizes and colors are available at Tile Collection, www.tilecollection.com or 704-541-8453.

The KitchenAid Artisan Series is incredibly versatile with all the available attachments. You can use it to make homemade pasta, stuff fresh sausage, whip up ice cream, and give fruit a squeeze. Comes in a dizzying array of fun colors. Select retailers, www.kitchenaid.com.

Terry-made from two-ply yarns of long staple cotton and designed by John Matouk, these guest house towels deliver luxury and long-lasting wear. Available in White, Cream, Linen and Seaglass. Bedside Manor, www.bedsidemanor.com or 704-554-7727.

design find

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48 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

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

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704-812-1201

www.e3cabinets.com

Decorating n Trends by Anne Marie Ashley

Comfy Cozy

Throws & Blankets

West Elm

Pendelton

For young and old alike, blankets have a special place in our lives as something that helps us relax and cozy up to the comforts of home. Today, more luxurious options still offer comfort, but also open up a world of textures and colors to choose from, including cashmere, bamboo, recycled yarn and chenille, just to name a few. From quilts and afghans to throws and fleece blankets, popular brands like Pendleton and Textillery are putting out high quality products in a dizzying array of options and from a design stand point, blankets and throws can add an infusion of color and texture to any space. Here are some of our picks for the best throws and blankets on the market, available both nationally and locally. v

Pine Cone Hill

Textillery

School House Electric

Resources

Pendelton

Bedside Manor............................................................................................................... 704-442-4006.................................................................................................www.bedsidemanor.com Cottage Chic................................................................................................................... 704-375-1888............................................................................................. www.cottagechicstore.com DeWoolfson Down........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.dewoolfsondown.com Lucy & Company.............................................................................................................704-342-6655............................................................................................ www.lucyandcompany.com

50 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

love to last a lifetime

Specialty Shops on the Park (next to Bricktops)

Charlotte, NC

704-442-4006

www.bedsidemanor.com

Stylish Cabinetry & Design

Early Spring Flooring Special 2-Car Garage Min 400 sf $200 Off 3-Car Garage Min 600 sf $300 Off expires 3/31/2012

Innovative Custom Solutions

Call today for a FREE In-Home Design Consultation

High Quality Floor Coatings

(704) 812.1209

www.CarolinaCustomSpaces.com

LIFESTYLES Lifestyles

54 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

dream team the furniture

Homeowners in Charlotte know and love the store The Furniture Connector and its coowner, Rodney Hines — the campy purveyor of furniture who has made furniture shopping fun for the past 11 years. What they might not realize is that Rodney recently introduced another concept store to the area, High Cotton Home. High Cotton Home is a collaboration of different furniture manufacturers featuring great style and inspirational vignettes, assembled by High Cotton’s talented design staff. Rodney has also assembled three of the area’s top interior designers — Chad Pruett, Layton Campbell and Eric Ennis — to create an interior design dream team. Their secret weapon: access to fabulous furniture drawn from the resources of two furniture stores. While each designer has certain design trends they lean towards, they agree it is the client’s personality that really matters when designing a room.

“I approach each client differently and really feed off them,” says Eric Ennis, who recommends never taking a room too seriously. “Your home needs to be you and reflect how you live.” Designer Layton Campbell also takes his cues from the room’s architecture. He likes to give his clients something that reflects their personalities but also includes something unexpected. “That’s where having access to a furniture boutique really helps,” he says. “Our clients are able to see our work showcased in the furniture store and that helps them get to know us and our abilities so we can begin a working relationship,” says Layton. Chad Pruett notes that clients are busy today and have less time to do home projects. “That’s where we come in,” he says. “Having access to a variety of furniture, accessories and soft goods through the two furniture stores helps us pull looks together,” says Chad. All the designers like mixing things up to keep rooms interesting. Eric likes blending

by Nancy Atkinson

rustic elements with a classic traditional spin. “The days for a formal dining and living room have come and gone,” says Eric. “Why not put a rustic table under a formal crystal chandelier and use the room more than just Thanksgiving and Christmas.” The key to The Furniture Connector and High Cotton Home’s success lies in this team’s shared philosophy that furniture and room design should be fun. “We have a great staff, our product is the best and incredibly priced and people love the experience they get in our stores,” says Rodney. “It’s entertaining. It has to be. Because if you’re not having fun spending your money then you don’t need to spend it.” v The Furniture Connector is located at 2905 Griffith Street in Charlotte. Call 704-507-9023 or visit www.thefurnitureconnector.com. Visit High Cotton Home at 2137 South Boulevard or call 704-335-1220.

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 55

Come try our seasonal menu

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essentials

new products

decorating 1.

The Eames House Bird rose to stardom in the 1950s when Charles and Ray Eames pulled it from their own living room and positioned it with a group of EamesÂŽ DKR chairs for a poster. The masterfully simplistic black bird (circa 1910) with its tapered beak and sleek tail was evidently one of their most prized objects of Appalachian folk art. In cooperation with the Eames family, Vitra used 3-D scans of the original to create the solid alder wood reproduction. Design Within Reach, www.dwr.com or 704-365-6514.

Lucy 8 Pendant Chandelier in Bronze is a sophisticated piece with modern flair. City Supply, www.citysupplycharlotte.com or 704-347-2489.

The Sedwick Coffee Table has splayed tapered legs, pinned tenons and generous overhangs with a planked top. Available in solid cherry at Stickley Furniture, www.stickley.com or 704-597-0718.

Cool and composed with handsome Restoration appeal, the Fanimation Arden Floor Fan features a strong oscillating airflow that cools the entire room. An excellent size for living room and bedroom corners, it features a walnut wood tripod base and 3-speed rotary switch. Efirdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Interiors, www.efirdsinteriors.com or 704-376-5648.

The Luke two-piece chaise sectional is clean and contemporary with a slight touch of old world. Comes in genuine black leather with polished chrome stiletto legs. By Design, www.bydesignfurniture.com. Charlotte: 704-342-4600. Pinevile: 704-542-8803.

6 4

With abstract lines and dashes in neutral hues, this Tibetan style, Minka handmade rug is a beautifully understated (and modern) way to add pattern to your room. Stark Carpet, www.starkcarpet.com or 704-588-8842.

design find

Save hundreds of dollars with local coupons at urbanhomemagazine.com

58 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

Urban Comfort By Design

SLY 2-piece sectional in white/black fabric $1,898 SUNA coffee table in black stained oak and glass $498

www.bydesignfurniture.com CHARLOTTE: 2130 South Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28203 704-342-4600 PINEVILLE: 11501 Carolina Pl. Pkwy. Pineville, NC 28134 704-542-8803

TROI lounge chair $498

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

Color n Trends

The

Pantone ® 17-1463 Tangerine-Tango 2012 Color of theYear

Colors for 2012

Vanguard Furniture /High Cotton Home

by Nancy Atkinson

Color forecasters play an important role in determining the direction for the fashion, paint, wallcovering and textile industries. That’s why color experts announce their Anthropologie

60 Urban Home Charlotte February/March 2012

Will Smith Interiors

In 2012, Pantone’s color pick is tangerine tango, an electric orange-red that dominated the runway at the Spring 2012 New York Fashion Week this past September. The Color Marketing Group has selected the playfully purple Boyz-n-berry as the hot new color for 2012 and the Color Association of the United States (CAUS) sees three complementary color palettes: red/orange, blue/green and the ever-constant neutrals to balance them out. From the happy connotations of eye-popping orange to the cool tranquility of saturated blues and the neutrals that ground us, the colors of 2012 reflect a move away from opulence and excess toward more modest, honest lifestyle choices. Red/Orange Leslie Harrington, Ph. D is the Executive Director for CAUS. She calls the red/orange palette Global Artisan, named for the artisans in emerging economies, with a strong emphasis on South America. Key colors in this palette include a deep scarlet red and a low-value orange, purples with a reddish cast, and other colors derived from natural materials and textures. Pantone’s Tangerine Tango falls into this category. Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, applies her background in psychology when she tells us this color is hopeful, optimistic, and sophisticated. “Tangerine Tango is a spirited reddish-orange color that continues to provide the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward,” she says. And we agree having seen many new wallpapers and textiles splashed in tangy orange hues that it adds vitality to a room and stays in step with primary colors and neutrals. “I love working with the color orange,” says Beth Keim, owner of Lucy & Co. Interiors in Charlotte and resident Urban Home contributor. “The color adds an immediate sense of warmth, and when mixed with neutrals, it adds eye catching contrast. Wall papers, such as grass cloths in orange, not only add texture to a room, but

when used in a space where neutral furnishings and accessories are abundant, it adds a bit of drama”. Eye-popping orange is a favorite for Charlotte interior designer Will Smith. An associate member of the Interior Design Society and owner of Interior Motives and former contestant on HGTV’s Design Star, he says orange is vibrant yet evokes an earthy gentleness. “Orange is a saturated color that can easily be combined with almost any color to create a bold, eye-catching design that makes a space become the centerpiece,” says Will. Purple is still prevalent, and this year’s Boyz-n-berry is a deep rich purple with slight red undertones. The Color Marketing Group calls it mature and elegant yet with a youthful edginess. “There are no rules,” explains Beth Keim. “While using the cool tones of blue - opposite on the color wheel from orange - is always a good choice, pinks, reds and purples actually accentuate orange, especially in children’s rooms. Blue/Green CAUS has named the vibrant mix of blues and greens in its cooler color palette Island Zen. While color experts agree that green is universally accepted as a neutral that can be used with anything, and it is well represented in this color palette, there is a clear move towards blue in interiors. Roseanna Roberts, director of color trends for CAUS, predicts blue will replace green as the “eco color” in 2012. Sherwin-Williams’ Director of Color Marketing, Jackie Jordan, explains that the blues in this year’s palette are not washed out. They celebrate our treasured blues: denim and water, and they range from the darkest indigo to faded-jeans hues, some with violet undertones, as well as the calm shimmery shades that reflect rivers, lakes and seas. “As we seek economic blue skies, we’re rediscovering denim, the rugged fabric of the American worker, Jordan said. “Clean water is another essential commodity. Our serene blue palette pays homage to both of these treasured resources.” February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 61

Anthropologie

Keim likes using blues when she can, being careful to match them well. “I have always thought blues can be mixed in with any combination of colors, but tone is important,” Keim says. “Pastels, in my opinion, should “go to the same party,” but the warmer teal blues are a perfect choice when mixed with warm tones such as orange and red.” Smith uses blues and greens to make a statement in a room. “These colors can be used to show formality or playfulness,” says Smith. “Because blues and greens pull elements from nature, they bring wholeness to an interior space.” The Ultimate Neutrals Urban Grit is the name given to the palette that features sleek bluegrays, charred browns, a burnished copper and a grape-black. White, taupe, dark beige, and a cream with yellow undertones complete this palette of neutrals. Harrington notes the shift from shiny, bright metallics to subtle, quieter metals such as bronze, copper, tinted silvers and burnished golds. “Americans will move beyond the high-gloss, lustrous finishes, in keeping with their new unpretentious outlook. This new definition of luxury stresses the usefulness and purpose of design.” “Steely grays have given way to our neutral [paint] palette of warmer gray and natural tones that create a balanced look,” Jordan says, adding that the palette is influenced by raw materials like grain, pebbles and weathered wood.

62 Urban Home Charlotte February/March 2012

Monie Foster is a designer with Stickley Furniture in Charlotte. She loves the Urban Grit color palette. “Our Coronado Collection combines clean lines, balanced proportions and rich textures,” she says. “They work well with the natural wood tones and down to earth neutrals in this color scheme.” Smith also loves this look. “Neutrals are timeless and can be dressed up or down,” he says. “When paired with metals or metallic fabrics they create a sense of subtle luxury.”v

Resources

Bedside Manor............................. 704-442-4006...................www.bedsidemanor.com By Design...................... Charlotte 704-342-4600.............www.bydesignfurniture.com Pineville 704-542-8803 Color Association of the United States................................ www.colorassociation.com Color Marketing Group........................................................ www.colormarketing.org French Heritage........................... 704-529-1288..................www.frenchheritage.com The Furniture Connector............... 704-507-9023...... www.thefurnitureconnector.com High Cottom Home....................... 704-335-1220 Innbo........................................... 704-995-6120................................www.innbo.com Interior Motives........................... 704-756-8424...................www.interiormotives.ws Lucy & Company........................... 704-342-6655...............www.lucyandcompany.com Pantone Color Institute.................................................................www.pantone.com Sherwin Williams............................................................ www.sherwin-williams.com Stark Carpet................................. 704-588-8842....................... www.starkcarpet.com Stickley........................................ 704-442-7171............................. www.stickley.com

Top Row: 1. Bella Notte 2. Bedside Manor 3. West Elm 4. Stark Carpet Bottom Row: 1. Anthropologie 2. Z. Gallerie 3. Lucy & Company 4. City Supply

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Designer Spotlight: LAURA CASEY

by Anne Marie Ashley

WHY THE ROOM WORKS

We asked Laura Casey, owner and founder of Laura Casey Interiors in Charlotte, to give us the rundown on one of her newly designed client spaces. Here, she explains why this space works so well and outlines some of the key design elements she used to create it. A young couple in Elizabeth hired me to redecorate their master bedroom. They wanted to have a quiet room to relax and retreat to, with a cool and soothing color palette. This room works in so many ways and ultimately accomplishes their goal. The custom headboard is anchored by the windows above, which allow for an abundance of natural light. The streamlined nightstands provide great storage and the glass bedside lamps keep the room feeling open and light. There is ample storage in the closets, so a large dresser was unnecessary and this

Chair Fabric – Robert Allen “Epoch” in Chambray www.ahokelimited.com

Bench Fabric — Duralee “Green Key” in Marine www.ahokelimited.com

allowed for a small reading area with two appropriately sized chairs. The reading table brings an eclectic and young feel to the room, as does the painting above. This client later told me, “Laura transformed our dark and uninspired master bedroom into a space that is inviting, elegant and full of character.” v

Resources

Karen Saks.......................................... 704-377-9277................................www.karensaks.com West Elm............................................. 704-333-0642..................................www.westelm.com A. Hoke Lmtd...................................... 704-358-0277.......................... www.ahokelimited.com Serena & Lily....................................... 866-597-2742.......................... www.serenaandlily.com

Carpet – Karen Saks “Mohawk” www.karensaks.com Bedding, Duvet/Shams — “Tess” pattern from Serena and Lily www.serenaandlily.com

64 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

West Elm, Cotton Bead Panel www.westelm.com

Paint – Benjamin Moore “Winter White” www.benjamin-moore.com

Discover Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Newest Home Furnishing Showroom NOW OPEN. 2137 South Blvd. Suite 100 704.335-1220 Mon.-Sat. 10-5 Sun. 1-5

outside

square Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hip To be by Ginger Sprinkle

66 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

“...The finished product is a pool that is a gorgeous display of Tuscan style with a little North Carolina flair.”

Are you considering adding a pool to your home this season? One money-saving tip is to make sure you get what you want the first time around. While it may be tempting to go with the lowest estimate, you will often find this is exactly what you get – a lower-quality, generic, less visually appealing pool and deck. In 2011, Piper Glen residents Conrad and Ashley Richards fixed this exact problem by completely remodeling their eight-yearold pool – although to redo the initial installation was a costly endeavor. Conrad was disappointed every time he looked out the window at the older pool before the remodel work of Charlotte’s Pool by Design. Afterwards though? “What they were able to do with the original pool to turn it into this is a work of art,” he says. “I look out the window now and know it’s one of the best decisions we’ve made. We made a great choice using them and their design.” Pool by Design owner Simon Spiers aims to please. “Conrad is a customer who was thrilled with what we did,” he says. “In the end, it’s not about whether or not I like the finished pool but whether the customer likes the work. That is what gives me a thrill.” Working with an existing pool area was challenging because of limited access in the landscaped yard. During construction

everything had to be hand-carried from the driveway and while typically machinery would be needed to build or remodel a pool to break out the existing deck, that was not an option with this project. Regardless, the finished product is a pool that is a gorgeous display of Tuscan style with a little North Carolina flair. The travertine deck exudes Tuscan polish, offering a very clean, modern look and the dry stacked stone retaining wall gives a nod to North Carolina comfort. The result: A very nice blend of contemporary and classic. Whether you are installing or remodeling a pool, keep in mind that you should design and plan what you really want from the beginning. Cutting corners to begin with will often lead to more expenses down the line. Simon recommends, and Conrad agrees, “Build what you like in the first place instead of compromising for costs initially; you’ll be better off in the long run.” Pool season is coming up before you know it, so contact Pool by Design today. It’s all in the timing! Pool by Design builds pools all year long, but the colder months have some great advantages to cost and time. v Pool by Design is located at 217 Fairwood Avenue. For more information visit www.poolbydesign.com or call 704-333-7446 (704-3DESIGN).

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 67

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DAY TRIPPING Greenville South Carolina

The Flight into Egypt Domenico Fiasella, called Il Sarzana

Greenville, South Carolina A city as sweet and southern as the summer days are long. Home to azalea-lined streets, some of the best restaurants in the south, Furman University and a bustling modern day main street, Greenville has just about everything you’d find on a checklist for the classic southern city. Lucky for us, it’s just a 90-minute drive from Charlotte with a plethora of things to do and see.

What To See

BMW Performance Driving School At BMW’s North American headquarters right outside Greenville, learn to slalom, drift and brake from racing pros. The Dark Corner Distillery Dark Corner Distillery is the upstate’s first micro distillery and they use quality ingredients to produce spirits like legal moonshine. Bob Jones University Museum & Gallery This gallery houses one of the most preeminent collections of European Old Master paintings including works by Rubens, Botticelli and Tintoretto.

Where to Shop

The Far West End District A four-block district that’s

70 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

home to over 30 local artists, including sculptors, painters, photographers and potters. Rush Wilson Ltd. This family-run operation has been clothing dapper businessmen since 1959. They offer custom fittings and amazing customer service. Pedal Chic Pedal Chic is the only womenspecific cycling and athletic boutique in the Southeast, with a selection of apparel for the female athlete, cyclist, urban commuter and yogi. The Cook’s Station The Cook’s Station has 3,000-square feet of upscale appliances showcased in real-world kitchen vignettes. Also offered: tastings and cooking classes. Plaza Suite This upscale women’s clothing

boutique has brands like Testament, 525 America and Johnny Was, as well as local designers.

Where to Eat

The Greenville Culinary Tour The “At the Chef’s Table” Tour takes you to five restaurants including The Loft at Soby’s, Table 301, The Lazy Goat, Soby’s New South Cuisine and Devereaux’s Restaurant.

Where to Stay

We suggest the romantic atmosphere of the AAA Four Diamond Red Horse Inn or the well-known luxury of The Westin Pointsett. The inn offers six private cottages or six main-house room accommodations. The Westin Pointsett offers guests all the luxuries the Westin is famous for.

Images courtesy of Greenville CVB, Midtown Artery and Bob Jones University Collection. For more information on attractions in Greenville, visit the Greenville CVB at www.greenvillecvb.com

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Style GUIDE

Wardrobe

staples

Hade E. Robinson Jr.

Basic White Blouse The white blouse takes you from work to evening and even casual on the weekend when paired with jeans and a cardigan. I am partial to the clean look of the Ralph Lauren Aarin Poplin Shirt. www.ralphlauren.com

Blazer or Jacket This should be an easy, go-to piece that you can use on top of that great white blouse or as an accent piece. I adore the modern tailored look of the Alice & Olivia Gauge Blazer. www.aliceandolivia.com

A Great Skirt I always suggest a nice pencil skirt or A-line skirt, a style that flatters nearly every body type for women. Stella McCartney’s designs are so feminine and I love her pencil skirts. www.stellamccartney.com

Tops Realistically, this item may be worn the most, so I suggest having at least four tops – two in solid colors and two in fun prints or patterns you enjoy. Kate Spade’s designs are fun and flirty. www.katespade.com

The Little Black Dress You knew this was coming, right? The little black dress covers everything from work, cocktail parties and date-night to nearly any major occasion. Diane Von Furstenberg dresses are always in style. Thankfully, the Jorie dress covers your LBD and sheath in one. www.dvf.com

Jeans It’s hard for women to find that perfect pair of jeans, but once they do, they rarely veer and they can do wonders for you. I like a darker wash on every woman and Joe’s Jeans offer a wide variety of fits, washes and colors. www.joesjeans.com

The Sheath The sheath dress was made popular by the style icons in the 50s and 60s and it’s making a return in a big way. It’s one of my favorite styles on a woman. www.dvf.com

Great Shoes Women love shoes, but it doesn t have to break the bank or occupy three of your five closets. Focus on a great pump, a cute flat and a nice pair of boots to get you started. The Kenneth Cole Au Café heel is stylish and sexy. www.kennethcole.com

Trousers Trousers are an easy foundation piece and I suggest having at least two pairs in the closet - one very neutral color and the other with a small pattern or design. The design on Alexander McQueen’s trousers pop. www.alexandermcqueens.com

Statement Jewelry Do you have signature piece of jewelry that can take you from day to evening? If not, then use this as a great reason to go shopping today. Kendra Scott knows how to make a statement. www.kendrascott.com

Must-Haves For Men Sport Coat Try the updated version of a black coat with black buttons. Great Suit Nice, tailored suit with two buttons in charcoal or dark blue.

Plain-Front Khaki Two pair, keep it simple. V-Neck Pullover Sweater Pick your favorite color and you’ll always look great.

Perfect Belt Always match the belt to the shoes.

Hade E. Robinson Jr. is the head personal stylist at Nordstrom SouthPark. Follow him on twitter, @CLTStyleGuy. Email him at hade.e.robinson@nordstrom.com, or call 704-442-6090. 74 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

When Urban Home asked me to contribute as one of their style experts, I was so excited! It’s a great opportunity to further reach so many of the clients I already work with on a regular basis, most of which are looking to complement the personal style they’ve already expressed with home décor. I believe that basics will always rule the closet. Fashion statements start with a great foundation of essentials, so I wanted to introduce everyone not only to me, but also to the ten staples of your wardrobe.

February/MARCH 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 75

LUXE

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ESSENTiALS HADE’S PICKS

Jimmy Choo Kirby Boot You can’t go wrong with Jimmy Choo shoes and I like this Kirby boot in black. www.jimmychoo.com and at Nordstrom stores nationwide.

Jimmy Choo Rosalie Handbag Available in classic colors like black, tan and red and produced in super soft grainy calf leather. www.jimmychoo.com and select retailers nationwide.

Bond No.9 Signature Perfume There are over forty scents offered under the Bond No. 9 name, but I like the signature scent. www.bondno9.com and at Nordstrom stores nationwide.

Michael Kors Chronograph Watch Michael Kors watches are stylish and classic, and both men and women can wear the Chronograph. Comes in several classic colors, but I like the brown for a little something different. www.michaelkors.com and at select retailers nationwide.

Clarisonic Mia One-Speed Lightweight and compact, the one-button, one-speed Mia gently and effectively cleanses your face at home or on the go. www.clarisonic.com and Sephora stores nationwide.

TOMS Classic 301 Sunglasses I adore the aviator style of the Classic 301 sunglasses. Even better, every pair purchased gives sight to someone in need. www.toms.com

76 Urban Home Charlotte February/MARCH 2012

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