Urban Home Magazine Oct Nov 2012

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CHARLOTTE URBAN

CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE

1 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

Jim Schmid Photography

Selection, Education, Value & Guidance – Redefined.

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4 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 5

Capturing The

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HOME CHARLOTTE URBAN

CONTENTS

october/november 2012 12

CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE

24

28

Reaching 180,000 homes annually

October/november 2012

VOL 12 NO 5

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

42

Editorial Director Tammy Wanchisn

62

84

Writers Nancy Atkinson Dana Todd Anne Marie Ashley Mark Ward Sales Kathleen Hands Lorrie Smith-Maloney Art Direction Harriet McDowall PageCreations Photography Jim Schmid Photography www.jimschmid.com Contributing Editors Trent Haston Beth Keim Hade E. Robinson Jr. Production Administrator Shelley Kemper Direct Mail Quad Graphics Phone 704-332-1504 Fax 704-973-5685 Email: comments@urbanhomemagazine.com Website: www.urbanhomemagazine.com

trends

Showcase 12 Sanctuary

departments Home

Decorating Trends 24 Decorating With Books 38 Opposites Attract 58 Decorating With Art

features lifestyle

42 What You Don’t Know About

Thread Count 68 Love Triumphs

kitchens & baths 54 Mood Swing @urbanhomemags

facebook.com/Urban-Home-Magazine

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

Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Charlotte Urban Home Magazine, will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate which is a violation of the Fair Housing Act. All real estate advertising in Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Charlotte Urban Home Magazine, is subject to the Fair Housing Act which states “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.”

improvements

60 Window Treatment 84 Outside In

remodeling

80 Designing For the Rest of Your Life

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

8 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

46 64

essentials

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

food 62 Lulu

design

why the room 70 Designer Spotlight:

Lana Helda

works

day tripping 74 Winston-Salem, North Carolina

why hire a?

78 Why Hire An Interior Designer

contributing editors

style guide: hade e. robinson jr.

28 New South Luxury

hade’s picks 32 Luxe Essentials

room service: 50 Pop Rocks

beth keim

building a better home: trent haston

72 Bring Design to Life

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Sanctuary

By Nancy Atkinson Photography by Jim Schmid

“Every home should be a sanctuary: entering it you should immediately feel physically and emotionally protected.�

- John Saladino

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 13

t was the house everyone in Charlotte was interested in but no one would buy. Until self-proclaimed “serial remodelers” Joy and Michael Palermo walked through its doors.

“We almost didn’t buy it,” said Joy Palermo. She described breaking down after their tenth walk-through of the house with architect Frank Smith and builder Ben Collins of the Salins Group.

Joy explained that the house had a nice exterior but was so quirky on the inside that it turned people off. “The rooms were dark, the flow was bad and one of the bedrooms had no windows,” she said. “The interior walls were 16” thick cement and could not be moved.”

But the biggest design challenge would be adding an upstairs wing with bedrooms for the couple’s four children - within their budget.

Thankfully, at the eleventh hour, the team created a plan to make the Mediterranean style home a perfect fit for the Palermo family.

Joy, an interior designer who graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology, and her husband Michael, a banker who shares his wife’s love of remodeling and her sense of style, began working closely with architect Frank Smith on the design of the home.

14 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 15

16 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 17

“When you are here it feels like you could be anywhere in the world, even France or Italy. It is like you are on a vacation at home.”

“I have always loved Frank’s style,” she said. “He and I discovered we both love the book Villa by architect John Saladino (known for creating serenely timeless interiors). We decided that’s where we wanted to go with it, and it grew from there.”

“We are so busy all the time,” said Joy. “I wanted to create an environment that made us feel really protected, a space that was cozy and soothing.”

Joy used a very calming color palette to create an overall feeling of symmetry. She mixed furniture and accessories from her other houses with new items selected specifically for this home.

“Antiques bought in Paris sit beside things from IKEA,” she said.

“It’s a great eclectic mix of high and low, old and new, pulled together with the neutral tone.”

When asked about her favorite architectural detail Joy is quick to mention the courtyard with its new pool. “I love the courtyard,” she said. Previously unusable space, it was Frank’s idea to put in a pool.

Now the family hangs out there all the time.

Joy laughs when she says the questions people ask the most are, ‘How can you live through a renovation like this with four children and how do you stay married?’ But the Palermos have renovated a total of five homes together in their 15-year marriage and they truly love the process.

“This house is unlike any of our other houses,” she said. “We have done the Southern thing and the Georgian thing, but this home is our little cocoon inside Charlotte. When you are here it feels like you could be anywhere in the world, even France or Italy. It is like you are on a vacation at home.”

And though she already has her next dream project in mind (a fisherman’s cottage in the Hamptons – done in all white) she admits this home could be a keeper.

“This house is beyond what I had envisioned,” said Joy. “It truly is one of those houses that is once in a lifetime - the house everybody wanted but nobody wanted. I am just so glad we saw the potential.” ­v

Resources

Frank Smith......................................704-332-4075....................www.franksmithdesign.com Lucy & Company................................704-342-6655.....................www.lucyandcompany.com The Salins Group................................704-372-1942.............................www.salinsgroup.com

18 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

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

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 19

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Decorating n Trends

Decorating with Books

By Anne Marie Ashley

Earmarked pages, worn spines, fabric covers – all glorious signs of well-read books. There is something comforting and familiar about your favorite novels and dotting rooms with volumes of your beloved books instantly warms the home. Set on a shelf, stacked on a table or piled on the floor, books bring character and color to décor while sharing your passions, pastimes and pursuits with those who cross your threshold. Used artfully, books can bring a whole new personality to interior design and offer a personal touch that’s sometimes hard to convey with found objects.

Whether you’re creating a personal library or using books purely as a decorative element, creativity pays off the most. Stacked beside a sofa as a makeshift side table or as a dramatic display on a built-in shelf, they become as integral to a design scheme as any piece of furniture or art. Create a nook underneath the stairs or place them in the seat of antique chair; giving both the feeling of well-lived-in home. However you choose to share your titles, the feeling of warmth won’t be missed in your décor.

Melissa Armstrong Interiors / Dustin Peck Photography

Paper Skyscraper Picks Ron Wootten and Tim Hamilton, owners of Paper Skyscraper in Charlotte, offer their picks of best Coffee Table Books that double as decor.

“Books add color and texture to a room. They can transform a stiff stage-set of a room into a space that appears lived-in. Any stack of books can have this effect, but some books beg to be touched, picked-up and browsed. Sometimes it’s the heft of the book that catches your eye. Sometimes it’s the cover design, the color of the spine or the typeface of the title.

Whatever it is, we love our books, and here are a few Paper Skyscraper favorites that would feel at home in your home.”

Harper’s Bazaar: Greatest Hits Glenda Bailey Abrams $65

24 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

Woodcut Bryan Nash Gill Princeton Architectural Press $29.95

Dogs Tim Flach Abrams $50

Images courtesy of Decorating with Books (House Beautiful)

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 25

FURNITURE • LIGHTING • ART • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS

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NEW SOUTH

LuxuRy Style GUIDE

Hade E. Robinson Jr.

1. Stella McCartney Falabella Tote A strict vegetarian, Stella McCartney never uses leather or fur in her designs, making her collection one to “live for.” Even though she’s only been on the scene less than 15 years, her designs are established and classic. My favorite is the “Falabella” fold-over tote in gold faux suede. www.stellamccartney.com.

2. Coach Legacy Leather Duffle In all designer fashions, there is an item considered to be the “introduction” to their luxury brand and this one is a true must-have – Coach. This season, they have reintroduced their Legacy Leather Duffle – updated and perfect in Cognac. www.coach.com.

3. Hermes Leather Handbag If I had to pick just one handbag in any color, style or size, it’s Hermes! There is just one store in Charlotte (the only one in the Carolinas) and it’s the ultimate in handbags. www.hermes.com.

1

As a Personal Stylist at Nordstrom, I work with all kinds of clients, each seeking advice for their own fashion dilemma.

From local TV personalities wanting the right look on camera, local celebrities and socialites that are walking an event “carpet,” to the average everyday woman of the Carolinas wanting to look her best – I’ve seen it all. However, there’s one thing all these clients have in common – they all want the perfect piece of luxury fashion. The question is always, “Hade, what luxury item should I invest in?”

In this “New South” Charlotte, I’m a huge fan of handbags and carryalls for women OR men. It’s one of the best items to invest in and you can carry a great designer bag from season to season creating wardrobe longevity.

4. Prada Saffiano Leather Tote Fall is the season to carry red and Prada makes the perfect red bag in the Saffiano tote. This is the ideal bag when you are ready to go bold. www.prada.com.

5. Louis Vuitton “Speedy” Bag This bag has been around forever and will always rein as the great investment in luxury. This bag comes in four great sizes – Speedy 25 to Speedy 40 – for all your carrying needs. www.louisvuitton.com.

6. Gucci Soho Shoulder Bad Gucci is a must for style and a luxury investment; it’s as iconic as anything made in Italy. This soho bag is my favorite in the Gucci collection. I recommend it in black, with the light gold hardware, making it a staple, and the famous padded interlocking “G” with tassel detail can’t be missed. www.gucci.com.

2

Hade E. Robinson Jr. is the head personal stylist at Nordstrom SouthPark.

Follow him on twitter @CLTStyleGuy or email him at charlottestyleguy@aol.com.

28 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

All images courtesy of retailers.

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October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 29

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LUXE ESSENTiALS

2

1

HADE’S PICKS

1.

Beats by Dr. Dre The original “studio” headphones. These headphones took the world by storm and actually brings the music studio to you whereever you are. www.beatsbydre.com.

2.

The World of Diptyque ‘Eau Particulière’ Body and Home Spray A symbolic atypical product from Diptyque; the toilet vinegar with a fresh enveloping fragrance built around a floral green accord. Sweetness is provided by rose and musks, freshness by mint. www.diptyqueparis.com.

3.

Native Union Pop Phone The real retro handset. An interpretation of the classic 50s Bakelite design telephone that combines a retro style with the soft touch texture, designed by French Designer David Turpin. www.westelm.com.

4.

Lancôme Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate Provides a boost to your genes activity and stimulates the production of youth proteins.

The perfect way to treat yourself to something good. www.lancome-usa.com.

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Much more than a wrinkle corrector, it’s capable of fundamentally re-creating the skin. www.lancome-usa.com.

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Position your iPhone in either portrait or landscape position for hands-free use while watching a movie, listening to music or using Facetime. www.nordstrom.com.

7.

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Perfect Coffee Table Books – Icons of Men’s Style by Josh Sims and Chanel: Collections and Creations by Daniele Bott Page Icons of Men’s Style by Josh Sims is a sleek book chronicling the history of men’s style complete with brief histories, photos and famous inspirations.

In Chanel: Collections and Creations by Daniele Bott Page, the House of Chanel opens its private archives, revealing a galaxy of brilliant designs created by Coco Chanel from 1920 to today. www.amazon.com.

32 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

All images courtesy of retailers.

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Decorating n Trends

attract Opposites

If traditional style seems too stodgy, but you can’t really warm up to contemporary style, transitional design might strike the perfect balance. With a clean, uncluttered look and simple sophisticated lines, transitional interiors are never too sleek or modern, but also never too ornate.

Transitional style is a marriage of opposites, allowing you to create a fresher look by mixing your favorite elements from both traditional and modern design. Since there are no hard and fast rules to creating this style, it can be challenging. Done right, the result is clean, timeless and inspiring. All it takes is some thoughtful planning and an eye for balance.

Architectural Details Use natural elements to help you create the perfect transitional space. Think stone, granite and wood (keep it lighter in tone), because they are found in both traditional and contemporary design.

Interject rustic elements such as exposed beams and reclaimed architectural wood details into modern, clean spaces. This creates a very warm, casual and comfortable feel that is also chic and sophisticated.

Color Palette Transitional style shines best against a neutral backdrop.

Basic white can look too stark, but richer neutrals such as cream, bisque, taupe, stone gray or warmer rosy gray work well. An accent wall or architectural element in espresso brown or soft black adds depth, while subdued tones of olive or sage green, terracotta and pale robin’s egg blue are perfect fabric colors.

Since transitional design is all about achieving balance and harmony, make sure your space has a natural flow, by repeating colors from one room to another. Use wall paint in the same tone and fabrics in similar tones and textures.

Furniture Transitional furniture usually features lighter wood and is medium in scale. Metal, glass and wood are often used together in different combinations. The furniture strikes a balance between masculine and feminine. Because of their

By Nancy Atkinson

Cornerstone Architects

simple designs, Asian, Shaker and Mission-style furnishings work well in transitional interiors.

Fabrics Textured fabrics including ultrasuedes, corduroys and chenilles are often used to create interest. Rugs in neutral colors such as olives, taupes, creamy whites and tans set a great foundation and geometric patterns in these tones work well. Berber carpets, hides and sisals are perfect choices for transitional style.

Accessories Use a minimalist approach when it comes to accessories, carefully selecting items that provide a counterpoint to the furniture. Pair family heirlooms with a large-format abstract painting. Use a large sunburst mirror for wall decor.

Objects that show age and nostalgia will work well against the sleeker lines of modern furniture.

For lighting, try pendant lights with sleek shades, and simple floor and table lamps for task lighting. Or combine recessed lighting with a vintage chandelier. Use a common element such as a shared color or detail to incorporate your favorite things into a fun and interesting mix.

Moving your home from traditional to transitional style is easy with a few simple tricks and the look will stand the test of time. Don’t get rid of your antique, heirloom or traditional pieces, add some style to them.v

38 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

Jim Schmid Photography

Barbara Barry Baker Furniture

Design Within Reach

Ann Pearson Designs / Dustin Peck Photography

Jim Schmid Photography

Hickory Chair

Luxe Home Couture tips: 1. Change picture frames to one solid color 2. Cowhide rug – any will work.

Choose one with a pop of metallic for added glam 3. Use more modern lamps!

4. Quartz votives are a great accessory to incorporate natural minerals 5. Cover your lamp shades with a fun fabric for an inexpensive way to bring new life to existing lamps

Resources

Gail Brinn Wilkins Interior Design / Dustin Peck Photography

By Design...........................................................704-342-4600.................................www.bydesignfurniture.com City Supply.........................................................704-347-2489...............................www.citysupplycharlotte.com Classic Attic........................................................704-521-3750...............................................www.classicattic.biz Duxiana at the Mews.........................................910-725-1577.................................................www.duxiana.com High Cotton.......................................................704-335-1220 Innbo.................................................................704-995-6120......................................www.innbofurniture.com Interior Motives.................................................704-523-0935.......................................www.interiormotives.wa LAKB Design......................................................704-780-9844....................................www.lakbdesignshop.com Lucy and Company............................................704-342-6655..................................www.lucyandcompany.com Stark Carpet.......................................................704-588-8842............................................www.starkcarpet.com Stickley Furniture..............................................704-442-7171..................................................www.stickley.com The Furniture Connector....................................704-507-9023..........................www.thefurnitureconnector.com October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 39

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Lifestyle

What You Don’t Know about

Thread Count

By Dana W. Todd

42 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

Misleading marketing can lead you to believe the higher the thread count, the finer the sheets.

Consumers are targeted by mass retail sales promising “800 thread count sheets for $49.99.” “Impossible”, says luxury linen specialist Tanda and Neal Jarest, co-owners of luxury bed and bath accessories boutique Opulence of Southern Pines. What you don’t know about thread count could leave you feeling a little itchy and scratchy.

Misleading marketing can lead you to believe the higher the thread count, the finer the sheets. Remember the adage, “If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.”

“A good rule of thumb is to pay about $1 per thread,” says Tanda. “A queen set of 200-thread count sheets should cost around $200. If they don’t, a processing step has been left out, often the singeing process which prevents fabric from pilling after a few washes. Quality sheets continue to get better the more you wash and dry them.”

Thread count is not the only factor to consider when purchasing quality linens. According to Tanda, 100-percent long-stapled, combed Egyptian cotton grown in the Nile River valley is best when finished properly in a multi-step process. Inferior linens do not incorporate every step in the finishing process, possibly excluding singeing, pigment dyeing or adding corner French seams. The best sheets start with the best quality cotton and sheets woven with low quality cotton are no match, even though they may be marketed as higher thread counts.

“I carry 200-thread count sheets that big box retailers’ 600-thread count sheets can’t match,” Tanda says. Opulence carries some of the finest, yet affordable, Egyptian cotton linens and bath accessories available, including the Wall Street Journal’s number one rated Abyss & Habidecor line of European towels and rugs.

Once you invest in luxury sheets, you can’t go home and wrap them around a lumpy mattress. That’s why the Jarest’s opened a Duxiana sleep shop next door three years ago that stocks a high-end, Swedish-manufactured line of mattresses with a 50-year lifetime. There are only 28 Duxiana stores in major metropolitan cities in North America, and the Jarest’s complete luxury sleep showroom comprising DUX beds and Opulence’s linens can’t be found anywhere else on the East Coast.

“You spend one-third of your life in bed,” says Neal, “so it’s important to be comfortable. The DUX bed is life changing. Customers who have purchased it say they will never go back to sleeping on a traditional mattress.”v Begin your luxury shopping experience at Opulence or Duxiana at The Mews, 280 NW Broad Street in Southern Pines or online at www.opulenceofsouthernpines.com. Discover more about the DUX bed by calling the store at 910-725-1577 or visiting www.duxiana.com.

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 43

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new products

decorating 1.

Plank Lounger by Eric Pfeiffer The Plank Lounger recalls a traditional Adirondack chair with its deep, low-slung seat, but cuts a decidedly more modern profile. Horizontal wood slats finished with softly rounded edges attach to a lithe metal frame. The Lounger is available with or without arms. www.councildesign.com.

2.

Stedman Chandelier A nod to traditional Gullah bottle trees, which were thought to trap evil spirits, this Stedman chandelier is one way to ensure a happy dinner party. www.arteriorshome.com.

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Ella B Pure Soy Candles Homemade with delightful, organic scents, the Ella B. Pure Soy Candles form a collection of scents that complement each other, perfect for mixing and matching! Six Charlotte neighborhoods are captured in a candle and feature distinct smells, indicative of each neighborhood scent, including flowers and plants specific to each area. www.paperskyscraper.com.

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Nelson Wheel Clock Designed in the 1950s and 60s, George Nelson’s clocks were highly successful both as popular consumer products and an icon of high design.

Wood and metal with a lacquer finish, newly reissued by the Vitra Design Museum. www.dwr.com.

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Shagreen Napkin Rings These napkin rings from Oly Studio are trimmed in bone and have dark wood interiors with a textured outer edge, adding a unique and stylish accent to any dining table. www.olystudio.com.

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Kent Sofa The Kent Sofa is a generously scaled Chesterfield-style sofa with authentically biscuit-tufted arms and inside back. This luxurious and inviting form was inspired by a Hickory Chair sofa that was introduced into the upholstery assortment several decades ago. www.hickorychair.com.

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hat began with a landmark location, a generations-old rose garden and a dream has blossomed into one of Charlotte’s most convenient and elegant addresses. Featuring luxurious condominium homes in a superb setting on Providence Road, Rosewood is near to what is dear, including SouthPark and Uptown. But it’s the delightful people and dozens of swoon-worthy amenities that make living here such a joy. A limited number of condominiums and penthouses are available.

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Contributing Editor | Room Service

Pop Rocks

BETH KEIM

Layering complementary fabrics in graphic patterns helped strengthen the concept.

I love strong, saturated colors - take one look at my peacock blue living room and you’ll understand. It’s fun, it’s happy and it’s lighthearted – just like the nature of my client in this story.

Miss Ella Richardson is a wide-open, charismatic ball of personality. She loves orange and she loves hot pink (what tweener doesn’t?). If these bright colors suit your daughter’s personality, embrace it!

When it’s time to give your daughter a room she can really enjoy and grow into for years, I can tell you there is a key to doing it right.

Colors of a heavy hue need to be counter-balanced with white and there are a couple ways to do so. This room is a great example of how to pull it off the first way. By keeping all the color on the accessories and furniture, and going lighter on the walls (preferably the white range of any “clean” color), the bright shades of pink and orange don’t overpower. Having pale grey walls on the sides and an accent wall of silver and white made the colors pop that much more.

Our starting point was the window fabric, filled

50 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

with color and whimsy. I wanted crisp, clean walls as a backdrop to this fabric. Every room can benefit from a little black and since Ella needed a new bed as well, we incorporated it with the frame.

Lighter, interesting furnishing started mixing in and combining vintage with modern give the room more interest overall.

The second way of achieving a successful color saturated room is to take the opposite approach.

Fill your walls with color and pattern, but choose white accessories, fabrics and furniture to tone down the room. White furniture doesn’t conflict with the palette and allows the strong colors in the room to stand alone. Bold, strong colors create a fresh, fun and energetic room. Mixing in the solid white or black keeps the look from being overpowering and chaotic.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.

Fun features to think about in a color saturated room: 1. Unique lamps. This is a place to incorporate something different. Oversized and colorful is the way to go.

2. A truly special reading chair. We actually hand-painted this chair for a little added drama!

3. Simple white bedding with a pop of color in accent pillows.

4. Silver chandelier, nail heads, chair legs and frames. For this modern look, I chose to keep all my “metals� the same.

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 51

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October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 53

kitchens & baths

Mood Swing

By Dana W. Todd

The right tile and granite can move the mood of a room, creating an ambiance that didn’t exist in the original architecture. Interior designer Carolyn Cook and tile designer Daphne Friday of Tile Collection worked together to create a modern, masculine atmosphere inside a traditional bungalow in the historic Plaza Midwood neighborhood of Charlotte.

Unlike temporary design updates like paint and carpet, it’s wise to avoid cutting corners with more permanent design features such as tile and instead buying the best the budget allows when reworking kitchens and bathrooms. That’s the route bungalow homeowner Kristin Sullivan took when working with her designers to choose tile and granite for twoConcepts rooms.

Closet these and Storage The Container Store 54 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

“The waterfall leathered granite countertop in the kitchen suggests an understated Asian feel, like a painting or some dreamy piece of artwork,” says Cook, who is LEED accredited and a universal design proponent.

“The kitchen is part of the living space, so to keep it from screaming ‘kitchen,’ we eliminated overhead wall cabinets and located drawers below. A wall of frosted bottle green glass tile – mimicking oversized subway tile – continues the quiet, subdued feeling.”

In a new upstairs addition, the bungalow’s single bathroom provides another spa-like sense of calm with continuity of the bottle green color on the walls, as part of the sliding glass barn doors at the entranceway and through the use of Tile Collection’s “Bubblicious” circular glass tiles in a recessed niche on the feature wall. Three ball pendants echo

the circular motif, providing a whimsical and feminine twist on the otherwise masculine space, avoiding the need to accent the tile wall with sconces to maintain a clean look. Another selection reminiscent of the spa experience – “Chloe” tiles – cover the bathroom floor.

“Dark ebony floors and cabinetry upstairs and downstairs ‘wrap’ the house and provide a cozy, insular feeling,” says Cook, who added universal design features such as pull-out cabinets, a drawer dishwasher, below-counter microwave, and touch faucets and lights as bonuses for the homeowner who wants to live comfortably in her home for many years.v

Glass Tile’s Best Features

To experience the transformational power of tile in your kitchen or bathroom, visit Tile Collection’s showroom at 11200 Carolina Place Parkway in Pineville seven days a week or view a design gallery at www.tilecollection.com. Call 704-541-8453 to make an appointment with a specialty tile designer.

Water imperviousness

Images courtesy of Carolyn Cook.

Durability Unlimited colors Light reflection

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 55

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Decorating n Trends

At Home With

By Nancy Atkinson

art

Personalizing your space with art that speaks to your heart is the key to warming any environment. If you are unsure how or where to display your favorite art, here are some practical tips from the pros.

Phoebe Howard / DustinPeckPhotography

Groupings Even the most eclectic mix of art can look fantastic together if arranged well. Before you hammer a nail, trace the outline of your piece onto paper and use painter’s tape to position the paper until you are satisfied with the arrangement. Start with a central dominant image and radiate other pieces outward and upward.

Height The gallery style of hanging, which is 60” to 65” off the floor, is a good rule of thumb. In rooms with lower ceilings you 58 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

can adjust. Go higher in a room with cathedral ceilings. In the dining room, where you will likely be seated when viewing the art pieces, consider eye-level. Over a console or sofa, hang the artwork at least 6” to 12” above the furniture, allowing the art to breathe.

Scale Small artwork will drown on a large wall, but there are perfect places for tiny treasures. Seek out the back of a bookshelf or an oddly shaped corner. Large-scale paintings often look best in living or dining rooms.

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Transform A block of reclaimed wood can look great on the wall while adding texture and warmth to a modern space. In the same way, a large abstract painting can freshen a traditional home. Artwork in warm tones makes a spacious room feel cozier, while artwork in light colors opens up a small space.

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Color Rather than match the piece to your furnishings, throw in an accessory or two that picks up the colors in the artwork. Consider choosing a wall color that contrasts the colors in your piece to make the art pop, or use a color that echoes a tone.

Resources

Bechtler Museum................................................................................................................. www.bechtler.org Jerald Melberg Gallery...............................................................................................www.jeraldmelberg.com Gil Gallery...........................................................................................................................www.gilgallery.com Lark & Key Gallery...........................................................................................................www.larkandkey.com McColl Center.................................................................................................................www.mccollcenter.org Mint Museum............................................................................................................... www.mintmuseum.org Red Sky Gallery............................................................................................................ www.redskygallery.com Renee George Gallery........................................................................................ www.reneegeorgegallery.com Shain Gallery................................................................................................................. www.shaingallery.com

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Photos courtesy of Pareja Andante / Renee George Gallery, Kim Schuessler / ShainGallery, Anthropologie

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 59

improvements

Window

Treatment

By Dana W. Todd

60 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

What to Consider When Buying Replacement Windows Energy Efficiency Are windows Energy Star or Low-E? Are they single pane or double pane?

If double, do they have tight seals to keep inert gases intact?

Customization Are windows made to order for a precise fit?

Installation Are you, the manufacturer, or a third party responsible for installation?

Is the price included in the package?

Warranty Is one available?

There’s a new place in Charlotte to shop for high-end residential windows and doors for new construction and renovation projects.

Window & Door Showplace opened a Charlotte showroom this summer, packed with products spanning four product lines and staffed by employees with more than 50 years of combined industry experience.

The recently opened showroom is the only full-service Marvin showroom in the area, carrying two Marvin product lines – Marvin and Integrity – as well as the Windsor and Comfort View lines from different manufacturers. All products are produced and manufactured in the United States.

“If you’re looking for a $189 replacement window, we’re not the place,” says Dave Adams of Marvin Concepts, who has worked in the industry for 32 years. “We provide high-end windows, with a special focus on custom sizing and design. If your architect can design it, we can build it.”

In addition to providing windows for new construction, Marvin manufactures custom replacement windows. “Homeowners often

don’t know when they need replacements,” Adams says. “With the prevalence of air conditioning, windows remain closed so it’s hard to know when it’s time for new ones. Open windows and poke around. If the wood is soft or has black mold, it is rotting and time to replace them.”

In keeping with its high-end product lines, Marvin also designs architecturally correct replacement windows to install in historic renovations.

The showroom showcases several lines of doors, such as Masonite® interior doors, custom-made entry doors and high-end interior doors made of quality woods like knotty hickory or mahogany. Complementary hardware for both residential and commercial projects round out the offerings. v

Visit the new Marvin Showroom in Charlotte at 901 South Kings Drive or online at www.windowshowplace.com. Download Marvin’s free app, “Window Shopping,” to plan window and door designs for your home.

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 61

FOOD

Fabrice DiNonno

design

It’s rare to find a restaurateur who has a background from two of the world’s finest food regions...the South of France and Italy. Such is the case with Fabrice DiNonno, owner of LULU Restaurant. Fabrice blends the earthiness and simplicity of Italian-influenced foods, with the flavor and richness of French cuisine. As one reviewer on Zagats noted, “LULU is an amazing restaurant in an unlikely place. Classic cafe decor and delicious food. Go Hungry!” We asked Fabrice some key questions about his background and philosophy on food.

How does growing up with both French and Italian parents influence your menu?

We relocated from Italy to the South of France right before I was born. I am used to preparing foods from our own garden, using local herbs, and of course preparing it in a Mediterranean style.

My Grandmother was a chef and owned a restaurant as well as an alimentation (deli). My father owned restaurants as I grew up, so I have always been around good food.

You have many organic items on your menu.

Why is this important?

Organic vegetables, farm raised and free range meats taste better.

It is that simple. They cost more and I have to be creative in order to keep my prices low, but I prepare food for my customers the way I do for my own family.

Your restaurant is known for a seasonal menu.

What is in season now?

Root vegetables like squash, pumpkin, Acorn Squash, beets, fennel, baby carrots. In fact we have a new fall menu and several new homemade soups.

What kind of feedback do you get from regulars and how does that influence your menu?

They tell me they come often because they love the food and the atmosphere. I was told once that LULU is a cross between your Mom’s house and your best friend’s kitchen. I can understand that. Each dish tastes and is prepared like a home-cooked meal, and our atmosphere is relaxed with a funky vibe.

62 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

What is the crown jewel on the menu?

The Chicken Cecilia. We have had this dish on the menu since we opened almost seven years ago and it is just as popular now as it was then. It is a chicken breast and leg stuffed with brie and herbs de Provence served on bed of sautéed escarole and with a side of homemade garlic mashed potatoes.

What is your philosophy with wine and food?

What are you looking for when building your wine list?

I generally look for boutique wines that are not main stream and although I believe that many of the best wines are from France, I carry wine from all over the world.

LULU is located at 1911 Central Avenue in the heart of Plaza Midwood. They can be reached at 704-376-2242 or online at www.luludinewine.com.

Zuppe Di Scarola (escarole soup) 1 pound sweet Italian sausage 4 quarts chicken stock 6 garlic cloves, minced freshly ground black pepper 1 pound dry white beans, washed and drained 2 heads escarole, roughly chopped 1-inch pieces, (up to 4 cups) 1/4 teaspoon oregano 3-4 leaves fresh basil pinch red pepper flakes 1 bay leaf salt to taste freshly grated Romano cheese

Brown the sausage in a large soup pot.

Remove, slice or cube and set aside.

Add stock, garlic and pepper to taste into the soup pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, scraping all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the beans and herbs, and cook covered for 30 minutes.

Add the meat and simmer on lowest heat. When beans are tender, add the escarole and cook until soft. Serve with plenty of freshly grated Romano and crusty bread for dipping.

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Made from 100% bamboo charcoal, Moso Bags neutralize and remove all odors while remaining fragrance-free. www.mosonatural.com.

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“A HOME IS not a mere transient shelter : its essence lies in its permanence, in its capacity of accretion and solidification, in its quality of representing , in all its details, the personalities of THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN IT.” H. L. Mencken

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Lifestyle

Love Triumphs

By Conner Selwyn

68 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

In a time where the media boasts a tumbling economy, most would assume diamonds are a luxury few can afford. One local operation, Diamonds Direct, defies this assumption due to one simple factor— love prevails.

“Diamond engagement rings have come to signify much more than financial success, an engagement ring is a symbol of love, and represents a promise,” explains Diamonds Direct’s President, Itay Berger.

As the old saying goes, “love alone can overcome all obstacles,” and perhaps it’s this fundamental belief that has helped Diamonds Direct grow tremendously since they first opened their doors in Charlotte in 1995.

In 2008, a year stained with economic hardship, Diamonds Direct opened stores in Raleigh, NC and Birmingham, AL. Like the SouthPark store, these locations quickly became the “go to” for engagement ring shoppers. Diamonds Direct’s growth continues as Berger currently lays plans to open locations in Austin, TX and Richmond, VA this fall.

“We know that a diamond ring is not just a diamond ring,” says Berger. “The diamond ring is one person saying to another, ‘I want to spend the rest of my life with you’. We know that this is a huge decision for our customers and we treat it as such. Our selection, service and warranties are exactly what couples are looking for when they buy the ring of a lifetime.”

Love has a friend in Berger, as he has his finger on the pulse of his customer’s needs. Diamonds Direct assists customers in finding a ring that fits their budget and style—not store quotas. “This customer service strategy,” asserts Berger, “is key in building a loyal clientele that drives future business growth.”

Behind the showroom is a team of individuals who make diamond buying look like an art form. By manufacturing many of their diamonds, the company cuts out all middlemen and removes a series of price markups along the way. Berger spends countless hours handpicking each diamond for Diamonds Direct’s inventory. This provides a multi-faceted advantage to the consumer, from quality and selection to price.

Complementing their inventory, Diamonds Direct’s lifetime upgrade policy allows customers to trade in their original diamond time and time again. Think of it as a diamond savings account— the customer can come in as often as desired to trade in their stone for a bigger size, better quality or even a different shape, and is only required to pay the difference in the two diamonds.

“We know people may want a different diamond in the future,” explains Berger “and our upgrade program allows them to do so without losing money.”

Diamonds Direct’s commitment to customer satisfaction is gelled by a warranty covering the cost on all ring sizing, polishing, refinishing, prong replacement, stone tightening, appraisal services and more.

Berger says, “When I see one of our customers catching up with their sales associate over a cup of coffee while their rings are being serviced, I know we’ve done our job. We have not just made a sale; we’ve built a trusted relationship. This is the heart of our operation.”v

To find the perfect diamond, visit Diamonds Direct at SouthPark at 4521 Sharon Road #101, or visit them on the web at www.diamonds-direct.com.

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 69

Designer Spotlight: Lana Helda

by Anne Marie Ashley

WHY THE ROOM WORKS We asked Lana Helda, of Lana Helda Design in Charlotte, to give us the rundown on one of her favorite client spaces. Here, she explains how the project came together and outlines some of the key design elements she used to create it.

Lana Helda: I recognized the challenge in this uptown dining room project after my first meeting with my newlywed clients. I felt it was necessary to appeal to both his contemporary style and her warmer, slightly more traditional sense. I approached this complex design fusion with a layering effect and provided a space they both felt was perfectly tailored to their desires.

The textured wall adds warmth and makes a great backdrop.

It has multiple levels of warm tones, along with a touch of shimmer created from the addition of bits of gold and silver paint. I further accentuated the wall, while maintaining its luster, by choosing round gold leaf medallions by Arteriors Home.

This layered more texture while giving the wall the final accent.

Well-directed and balanced lighting is critical for creating great ambience. I selected soft lighting accents to enhance warmth and richness and bring a sense of elegance. The Swarovski crystal chandelier is contemporary but adds the sparkle and drama every dining room needs.

The rug is one of the items I like to select first, as it is becomes the basis from which the colors of the room evolve. This Tibetan wool and silk transitional rug by Stark Carpet mimics the same warm neutral colors in the wall and sets an elegant and modern tone to the room.

Schonbek Swarovski Crystal Chandelier, Ferguson Kitchen, Bath & Lighting. www.ferguson.com.

Samba Buffet and Dining Table, Marge Carson Inc. www.margecarson.com.

70 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

The dining chairs are a custom design using a java-finished frame with clean distinct lines and buttercream leather upholstery. The leather reinforces the lush cream tones in the rug while providing a rich durable finish that is sumptuous to the touch.

The buffet, by Marge Carson Inc., is my favorite part of the space.

It’s elegant and timeless, yet clean and modern. The table, a very modern design also from Marge Carson Inc., is sleek yet classic enough for almost any style room. Although a dining room is sometimes less used than other rooms, it should still make a statement that sets a tone for the rest of the home. Entertaining itself is a labor of love. A beautiful, inviting dining room draws your guests in, making them feel they are in a special place.v

Tibetan Oriental Hand Knotted Rug, Stark Carpet. www.starkcarpet.com.

Gold Leaf Medallions, Arteriors Home. www.arteriorshome.com.

Room image courtesy of Jim Schmid Photography. All other images courtesty of retailers.

DUXIANA at The Mews Downtown Southern Pines 910.725.1577

Contributing Editor | Building a Better Home

Bring Design to Life

trent haston A good architect or designer knows when and where to add that special detail.

I’ll be the first to admit, I like a good one-stop-shop. That works pretty well when shopping for clothes and groceries; but not when building or renovating your home. Over the years, we’ve had several clients come to us with a vision and ask if we can just build what they have in mind. As thirdgeneration builders, we are fully capable of producing a well-built house from a plan sketched on a napkin, but we know the client would not be satisfied with the end result.

I can’t express enough the value of working with a well-qualified architect or designer. While our expertise lies in lumber, schedules, and budgets, they bring the art, creativity and vision to life. When designing our own logo, we envisioned the triangle to represent equal parts contractor, architect/ designer and homeowner. The best projects consist of all three.

One of the best values an architect or designer offers is their expertise in making the best use of space and layout within the architectural boundaries they’re given. They are able to discern a particular family’s needs and come up with a layout that best suits them. For instance, is the space needed for kids? For entertaining? For a home office? To enjoy a sensational view? Having your space customized to your needs is critical to a successful project.

A good architect or designer knows when and where to add that special detail. Using more of the fine or expensive products doesn’t necessarily make the home “pop,” but saving that special detail for a specific place certainly can and makes all the difference. The key is recognizing that line, which is what a qualified architect or designer can do. They can also help marry different design styles. Let’s say you love a more traditional feel and your husband is a fan of contemporary. How do you happily combine these styles? A designer or architect can blend designs to provide a cohesive look to your home that everyone can enjoy.

An architect or designer can also facilitate the numerous selections that come with all new builds and remodels. Homeowners can get overwhelmed with selections—even if they think they are prepared before entering a project. With a typical kitchen or bath remodel, there are likely over 500 decisions to make. These range from the layout of framing, ceiling heights, doors and floors to cabinets, fixtures, walls, hardware, mouldings and more. An architect or designer can aid in all of these important decisions to make the process as comforting and stress-free as possible.

Open communication and our “triangle approach” are so valuable in getting the most out of your new home or remodel. It’s not always the lowest cost, but it will always ensure the plan you sketched on the napkin will truly be the home of your dreams.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.

72 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 73

WINSTO N

10 2012

NA ROLI CA

M, NOR TH ALE -S

27101

DAY TRIPPING

Winston-Salem,

north Carolina

The “Twin City” of Winston-Salem is emerging as one of the nation’s leaders in medicine, finance and technology.

It also nicknamed The City of Arts and Innovation – which means the intriguing balance between arts and commerce puts this city at the top of our list of North Carolina’s great, undiscovered gems.

Just an hour up the road, Winston-Salem is a day trip packed with fun, history and all kinds of delightful surprises.

What to Do

Old Salem Salem was founded in 1766 by the Moravians – a Protestant group of people that began in what is now known as the Czech Republic. Tour buildings, take a class in the museum, tour the gardens or participate in hands-on activities like pottery, sewing, fireplace cooking, painting and more.

Krispy Kreme The beloved North Carolina confection Krispy Kreme was founded in the heart of Old Salem. Vernon Rudolph bought a secret yeastraised donut recipe from a New Orleans French Chef, rented the building in Old Salem and started selling donuts to local grocers. Passersby began asking for hot donuts, so Vernon cut a hole in the wall and began selling them directly to customers on the street.

Wine Country Bicycle Tour Enjoy a two-day tour of local wineries via bicycle, starting and ending at The Brookstown Inn in Winston-Salem. Tour includes a catered lunch overlooking Yadkin

74 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

Valley, winery tour and wine tasting, a wine and cheese reception at the inn and dinner at one of Winston-Salem’s finest restaurants, Meridian.

Where to Shop

Reynolda Village Adjacent to Wake Forest University, the shops at Reynolda Village are housed in buildings, which once supported the 1,067-acre estate of the R.J. Reynolds family.

The buildings now house stores, restaurants and offices – everything needed for a truly unique shopping experience.

Historic West End Meander through a host of antique, consignment and whimsical furniture shops; dine at a variety of uniquely themed locally owned restaurants or take a carriage ride through this historic district peppered with structures built from 1890-1930.

Downtown Arts District DADA, as it’s called, offers a unique shopping experience, innovative galleries and entertaining

special events, such as the First Friday Gallery Hop. Explore the fiber, wood, metal, canvas and especially, the people of the arts district.

Where to Eat

Milner’s American Southern The menu boasts a delicious variety of Southern American classics retooled with contemporary culinary techniques using the finest ingredients like small farm produce, coastal Carolina seafood and meats from ethically conscious ranchers.

Noble’s Grill An offshoot of an old Charlotte favorite, Noble’s, this grill features fresh food and a fun menu. Small plates and dinner portions available and a friendly, inviting atmosphere make this a classic to try.

The Screaming Rooster A neighborhood restaurant serving fresh, seasonally appropriate dishes based on locality, season, and a farm to table creative spirit.

Images and information courtesy of www.visitwinstonsalem.com.

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Lunch | Dinner | Brunch O p e n 7 d ay s a w e e k October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 75

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October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 77

Why Hire An interior designer

By Anne Marie Ashley

Your home is distinctive; it’s a reflection of your personality and your lifestyle and hiring a professional to help you design the perfect space allows you to focus on enjoying it. Hiring an interior designer can take expression of your style to a whole new level while taking the pressure off to get the job done in your free time. We spoke with the experts at the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for the Carolinas to get some tips on hiring the perfect designer for you.

How do homeowners hire the right designer?

Designing the interiors of your home is as personal as selecting your wardrobe, so choosing a professional that understands your style is key to loving the finished product. Have an idea of what you’d like your space to look like and use inspiration from magazines and design websites to get your message across to the designer.

ASID offers some key considerations when hiring a designer: Traci Zeller Design / • Is the professional accredited as an interior Dustin Peck Photography designer? (If required in your state, be sure the designer is licensed) • Fixed fee (or flat fee) — The designer identifies a specific sum to • Does the designer have experience in the type of project you are doing? cover costs, exclusive of reimbursement for expenses. One total fee • Has he/she demonstrated creativity, talent and resourcefulness in applies to the complete range of services, from conceptual developtheir portfolio? ment through layouts, specifications and final installation.

• Is the designer attentive, responsive and do they communicate well • Hourly fee — Compensation is based on actual time expended by the with you? designer on a project or specific service.

• Be sure the designer has a record of reliability and good work habits.

• Cost plus — A designer purchases materials, furnishings and services (e.g., carpentry, drapery workrooms, picture framing, etc.) at cost and What can a professional interior designer bring to the table? sells to the client at the designer’s cost plus a specified percentage agreed As ASID points out, when you hire an interior designer, you get the to with the client to compensate for the designer’s time and effort. benefit of an experienced professional who can solve problems, help ASID offers this final word about cost: How you choose to furnish you avoid costly mistakes and, most importantly, create an attractive, your interior and how you work with your designer will have tremenaffordable space designed specifically to meet your lifestyle needs. Intedous impact on the final cost of the project. Items such as antiques rior designers offer a trained eye that can help you bring your vision to or custom-made furniture, and modifications that involve altering or life, possibly in ways you never imagined. They also provide specificamoving load-bearing walls or beams will significantly increase the cost of tion and purchasing services for materials, furniture, accessories and art, your project, as will requesting changes mid-project or making excessive some of which you might not be able to find on your own. demands on the designer’s time. The more research and planning you do before you start, the more you will be able to help keep costs down What should homeowners expect to pay for an interior design project? during the project. v Designers, like other professionals, are different from one another in their combinations of talents, knowledge, experience, and specialties.

What and how they charge will vary accordingly. Here, ASID outlines To find an interior designer in Charlotte, please visit www.asidcarolinas.org the common methods or combined methods for residential designers, or www.interiordesignsociety.org for more information. tailored to fit the client’s needs: Lana Helda / Photo by Jim Schmid

78 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

remodeling

DESIGNING FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE

By Mark Ward

Their nest empty, Charlotte couple Mike and Terrye Hartnett took stock. The large single-family suburban home they loved was no longer a good fit. “In moving to a condominium that’s closer to city amenities and my job,” Mike relates, “our goal was to downsize while incorporating design elements that enhance our lifestyle. We wanted less space— but better space.”

One goal was a stylish and inviting kitchen complemented by premium cabinetry with accessories and placement carefully planned to make cooking and entertaining easier. The Hartnetts scanned magazines and websites for ideas. Through their condominium management they were put in touch with Kristie Knorr of IMPACT Design Resources, a design and sales team that represents several custom local manufacturers of quality products for the home.

“We’re seeing a trend,” affirms Knorr, “where homeowners aren’t just looking for more square footage. They’re upgrading their current space or, like the Hartnetts, reducing their overall footprint but enhancing the quality of amenities within. They figure, ‘We’re going to be here a long time, so let’s make it the way we want it.’ Spending has picked up since the recession, but the emphasis is on projects that add real value.”

When approached by the Hartnetts, IMPACT Design Resources had recently finished a project at the same condominium. The homeowner had collected fabulous antiques from around the world. Knorr’s team designed custom millwork to serve as an architectural backdrop for the pieces and lined up local master craftsmen to put everything together onsite. “We enhanced the space so the homeowner would get more enjoyment from her collection,” Knorr says.

For the Hartnetts, Knorr could offer design services and, for each product needed, access to the best local shops. “The word ‘Resources’ in our name is very important,” she explains. “We not only do the space planning, layout and design, but connect your job with the correct local resources to realize your vision.”

Mike Hartnett agrees that, as a homeowner, “I didn’t have access to the master craftwork needed for our cabinets, paneling, mantel, and built-ins.” But because Knorr and her design team are preferred dealers for a variety of custom shops—from ornamental ironwork to decorative concrete—the Hartnetts’ dream could become a reality. “When you’re designing spaces to last the rest of your life,” advises Harnett, “don’t do it quickly. Seek out a designer who is willing to coach you, hold your hand, and effectively manage your project. IMPACT Design Resources gave us that.” v Whether you’re a homeowner, interior designer or builder, IMPACT Design Resources can be the first stop for your next project. Check out the showroom at 305 Foster Avenue in Charlotte, call 704-773-1344, or visit www.IMPACTdesignresources.com.

80 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

“homeowners aren’t just looking for more square footage.

They’re upgrading their current space or reducing their overall footprint but enhancing the quality of amenities within. “

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 81

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In Outside

“Bringing in the warmth of brick and stone into your home is as easy a decision as painting.”

By Mark Ward

Today’s emphasis on outdoor living has prompted designers to bring the interior look of a home to outdoor spaces. Yet many are now exploring the reverse, bringing elements from the outdoors to a home’s interior.

Typically, relates Georgia Ericson, president of Atlanta-based Main Street Designs, “You have a beautiful exterior of brick veneer and stone accents, but then you walk into the house and all you see is drywall and carpet.” Much better, she believes, to “have the warmth continue inside” with interior brick and stone veneers that “bring the feeling of home into your house.”

Just as interior brick and stone veneers convey the warmth of tradition, these materials also “feel timeless because they draw from the earth and bring out what our human psychology can relate to,” advises Katie Skoloff, ASID, an interior designer in Greenville, South Carolina. Interior use of brick and stone, adds Brad Collett, assistant professor of landscape architecture at the University of Tennessee, has a calming effect that “enhances the therapeutic sense of place.”

At PTI Design in Charlotte, Tracie Johnson says she “always looks for ways to tie the exterior and interior. But sometimes you’re limited by the available products.” Recently, though, she has begun using a new line of thin brick and stone veneers from General Shale.

Johnson listed three advantages of the new thin veneers from General Shale.

“First, you don’t need to plan an extra six inches recessed into the wall, as with conventional brick and stone,” she says. “You can decide to use veneer at any point in the project.” Second, the General Shale veneers are not synthetic materials, but real brick and stone cut thin. Third, General Shale manufactures its own products, “a huge advantage for scheduling, changes, and matching materials later if you do more remodeling,” she concludes.

Scott Clark, district sales manager for General Shale, points to a fourth advantage. For more than 80 years his company has provided exterior masonry products. But now, he explains, its introduction of interior masonry finishes “means you can get exterior materials and interior veneers from the same source, which is convenient and gives you a consistent look.” General Shale offers some 250 styles, colors, and textures of brick—and all can be cut into a thin veneer.

Thin brick and stone veneers “aren’t new products,” Clark continues, “but are traditional products used in a new way.” Putting up the veneers is similar to installing tile. “So bringing in the warmth of brick and stone into your home is as easy a decision as painting.” v Discover thin brick and stone veneers by checking out General Shale’s Charlotte showroom at 10800 Reames Road, calling 704-599-2877, or visiting online at www.charlotte.generalshale.com.

84 Urban Home Charlotte October/November 2012

October/November 2012 Urban Home Charlotte 85

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And, when the time is right, we’re ready to bring style & value together in your home – the kitchen, bedroom, bath – wherever.