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TRIANGLE URBAN
CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE
John Bessler Photography
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LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT, INC. FEATURING Imported Travertine and Regional Stone
HOME TRIANGLE URBAN
CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE
REACHING 198,000 HOMES ANNUALLY
APRIL / MAY 2014
VOL 2 NO 2
www.urbanhomemagazine.com Publisher Mark Herrmann Managing Editor Anne Marie Ashley Editorial Director Tammy Wanchisn Writers Anne Marie Ashley Valentina Castillo Laura Jackson Sales Wendy Derthick Sue Mooney Art Direction Stacy Long Catsup Graphics Harriet McDowall PageCreations Photography John Bessler www.besslerphoto.com Design Works Studios www.dwsinc.com Jim Schmid Photography www.jimschmid.com Contributing Editors Patrick Casey Ryan Crosser Caroline King Morgan Lashley Will McKendry Production Administrator Shelley Kemper Intern Valentina Castillo Phone 919-929-3335 Fax 704-973-5685
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
All contents copyright 2014, 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. 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. Urban Home Magazine, is subject to the Fair Housing Act which states “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.” Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. 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.
6 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
T
here’s a palpable change in the real estate market around the country and it’s 26 exciting. Home prices in the Triangle have risen 11.2% since January last year and many experts are beginning to take a much closer look at the RTP as an interesting market. Forbes Magazine named Raleigh number two on their list of the 20 Fastest Growing Cities and to residents, it should be no surprise. The Triangle is ripe with job growth, education opportunities and of course, 80 some of the best weather in the South, year-round. Anne Marie Ashley It’s a transforming market indeed and homeowners can begin to get a better grip on the value of their property and where it’s headed. Potential buyers and sellers need to adapt accordingly and take note of the changes in lending, home prices and real estate options. In our Market Outlooks article on page 18, experts lift the veil on the shifting real estate market and pinpoint some of the key areas in the Triangle to pay attention to. We offer tips for buying and selling your home in addition to laying out the exciting statistics that prove we’re on the rise. For homeowners looking to remodel, the Home Builders Association of Raleigh will host its 14th Annual Remodelers Home Tour in April, – one of the only home tours in the area to focus solely on remodels and the businesses that pull them together beautifully. Check out the list of homes and remodelers showcased on the tour on page 36. Of course, we have packed in some consistently loved editorial with three gorgeous home features covering the gamut from traditional to rustic to funky, starting with Twisted Traditional on page 11. Contributing Editor Patrick Casey shows us that not everything is so black and white in The Domino Effect on page 32 and Morgan Lashley and Caroline King of Vestique boutique select some stunning looks for day and night on page 54. We feel that 2014 is already proving to be an exciting year for the Triangle, on all fronts, and we plan to keep our readers up-to-date on the latest trends taking shape. It’s an equally exciting year at Urban Home, as we mark our one-year anniversary with this issue! We’ve received some remarkable compliments and helpful suggestions along the way, and as any major labor of love, it’s an evolving work-in-progress. We’re looking forward to bringing you a new look and feel online as well, when we launch our brand new website in the first part of April. As always, we hope to excite our readers by celebrating inspirational design and personal style.
Anne Marie Ashley Managing Editor
CONTENTS
april/may 2014 11
trends 11 18 26
feature home
Twisted Traditional
real estate trends Market Outlooks
feature home A Family Affair
36
remodeling trends
40
feature home
2014 Home Builders Association Home Tour Mountain Home Remastered
departments 30
26
40
48 56
essentials
Spring Forward
lifestyle profile
William Travis Jewelry
why the room works
Designer Spotlight: Rebecca Driggs
contributing editors 32 50
56
The Domino Effect
building a better home: ryan crosser & will mckendry
54
style guide: vestique
50
room service: patrick casey
If Walls Could Talk
Boho Chic and Go Go Glam
@urbanhomemags
facebook.com/UrbanHomeMags
pinterest.com/urbanhomemag houzz.com/pro/urbanhomemagazine 8 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
The ar t of things chosen well rather than of ten.
IMAGE: ThE ThoMAs phE AsAnT collEcTIon
4381-105 lassiter at n hills Avenue | Raleigh, nc, 27609 | 919-573-4010 w w w. r o d o l f o g o n z a l e s . c o m
10 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
TWISTED TRADITIONAL By Anne Marie Ashley Photography by John Bessler APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 11
12 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
The traditional architecture
L
and rich history of Hope Valley has a charm all its own and draws homeowners in from the moment they first cruise the area.
LYNN AND LOGAN TOMS loved this quality about their home, it created a fantastic space for entertaining, which they love to do. However, their family is also very casual and the sometimes-formal feeling of the home didn’t fit their lifestyle. Lynn had visited designer Heather Garrett’s store many times in downtown Durham and was drawn to her fresh approach. “Heather worked with earthy materials that were casual,” explains Lynn, “but her designs were so sophisticated and finished too.” She commissioned Heather to work on their home and implement a design that worked for the way their family lived. As a child, Lynn vacationed near Rosemary Beach in Florida often and wanted to bring some of the freshness and light from the seaside into her home. “I joke with Heather that my color palette is ‘taupe and clear with
pops of Lily Pulizer,’” laughs Lynn. Over the next eight months, Heather worked with colleague Todd Addison and Walker Harris of Chase Building to create a space the Toms envisioned relaxing in. They opened up the space between the kitchen and keeping room, adding air and light to the overall floorplan and allowing the family to be in different rooms but still together. “It’s everything we need!” exclaims Lynn. “The kitchen has a large island where friends or family can gather and the sofa nearby is a perfect spot for my daughter to do homework. Even my husband is close by when he watches TV from his club chair.” Heather pulled the other rooms together with a cool palette of neutrals, creams and dark hardwood with pops of blue and green creating an easy flow throughout the
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14 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
Heather pulled the other rooms together with a cool palette of neutrals, creams and dark hardwood with pops of blue and green creating an easy flow throughout the home.
APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 15
home. “My secret to decorating is probably the power of layering,” offers Heather. “It’s important to incorporate my client’s personal things into the design, but also layer textures, shapes and lighting.” Heather combined all of Lynn’s accessories into a pile and added some finds of her own as well. She redistributed the items throughout the home, “camouflaging” the two groups to create a look that seems curated over time. When asked what her best tip is for homeowners looking to update their home, Heather suggests painting the molding the same color as the wall. “If you have a tall baseboard, chair rail and ornate crown, paint it all the same color as the wall,” she says. “You’ll be amazed at the increased perceived size of the space. The architectural details are still there, but the allover color creates a soothing appeal for the eyes.”v 16 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
REAL ESTATE n TRENDS
MARKET OUTLOOK
Raleigh’s Residential Real Estate Continues to Impress
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By Laura Jackson
All eyes are on the Triangle. From the recent Forbes Magazine report naming Raleigh number two in the list of America’s 20 Fastest Growing Cities and the nation’s number 9 region to watch in 2014, to the U.S. Mayor’s Conference including Raleigh on the short list of cities expected to see the biggest growth, and so many more—the sun is shining brighter than ever.
A
According to the Triangle Multiple Listing Service (MLS), when comparing data from January 2013 to January 2014, the entire Triangle region revealed that all of the positive numbers were in place and demonstrating incredible growth. Year-todate average sales prices were up 11.2%, total dollar volume was up 23.6% and closed sales were up 11.2%. However, the right negative numbers fell in line too, with the average number of days a home stayed on the market topping out at 87 as opposed to 115 from January last year, and inventory down 9%, another excellent indicator. Raleigh’s top real estate experts agree—where locals have long understood that our area offers ideal living conditions in outstanding neighborhoods, ever-expanding job growth, educational opportunities, healthcare, ideal weather and so much more, near vertical growth charts prove that others are taking notice too. APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 19
Realtors Tips On Buying and Selling Selling • Paint your home neutral, inside and out, to appeal to the broadest possible market. • Neatness counts. Don’t show a house that’s untidy. • Stage your house to look like a show house. Make it “move-in ready.” • Budget for repairs. You may have to spend some money before you can list your house. • Do not put your house on the market before it’s ready. • Kitchens and bathrooms are important to buyers. Granite countertops and stainless appliances are generally good investments. • Curb appeal matters. Evaluate your landscaping.
Buying • Start early. With home inventory lower, an early start is crucial. • Talk with a lender before you start looking. Getting pre-approved or pre-qualified is ideal. • If you discover you can’t get a loan now, ask what you need to do to qualify in the future. • Calculate what your monthly house payment would be based on the range your lender gives you and be comfortable with it. • Know where the down payment is coming from. It’s OK to get money from your parents, but it may change the type of loan you can get. • Be prepared to spend more out-of-pocket than in the past. • Get creative with your offer and ask your Realtor for strategies to make your offer stand out. 20 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
How has the buyer’s market changed? Regarding urgency in today’s buyer’s market, Jim Allen of The Jim Allen Group advises, “From a buyer’s perspective, I would tell them to get into the market now. There should be a little fire lit under them today because when they see something they like, striking early may make the difference. Waiting may mean losing the product.” The way today’s buyer begins a home search changed dramatically within the last few years. Often it begins with a casual Internet search, a mere curiosity that later turns into many months of active looking. Linda Craft explains, “It’s shocking, but 90% of buyers today are searching on the Internet. And on average, it’s 120 days before they ever contact a Realtor.” Where Realtors used to be the primary gatekeepers for all of a home’s key information, consumers regularly turn first to a variety of websites that may or may not have the most reliable or current information. Today’s market has also seen the popularity of national real estate sites grow, but Craft, along with many other local Realtors, cautions buyers against using these sites exclusively, “almost every day we receive painful calls from prospective buyers who saw and fell in love with a house on a national site, only later to learn that not only did their dream house sell four, or even six months ago but that the prices listed were grossly outdated as well.” Unlike national websites, local real estate sites are regulated much differently and receive required updates on a consistent basis. What’s the best advice for today’s sellers? The age-old adage is true as ever – there are no second chances for first impressions. “I would caution sellers that despite the improving market, they still need to get their homes in as-close-to-new condition as possible before they put it on the market,” said Allen. When you consider that the vast majority of home consumers first see a property in a tiny photo online on their iPad, smart phone or other small electronic device, it puts in perspective how vital that first glance truly is. Not only is the quality of a home’s
photos crucial, “you will never have great photos unless you first have the right staging,” said Craft. She explains that professional staging doesn’t mean getting rid of all of a homeowner’s belongings and replacing them with new furnishings, but it does mean the best editing of what exists. What about new home building? “There is currently a shortage of new home inventory in the market,” offers Allen. “However, that shortage is not for lack of production on the lots that builders have. It’s actually the opposite of that. There are simply not enough lots available.” The inventory shortage in new home building translates to an increase in buyer demand and a subsequent price driver. “In the short run, the lack of selections in new homes firm up pricing and buyers are not going to see the same amount of negotiations on those prices,” explains Allen. “In many cases, when new construction is not available in what buyers perceive as a convenient location, that “convenient location” suddenly changes – the buyer goes further and further out, and we’re seeing that in the new home market.” What can we expect for the forecast ahead? Historically, our market is still in the midst of extremely low interest rates. Since even a one percent change in rate equals a 10.75 percent change in purchasing power, it makes sense to buy a home during these conditions. However, national home loan experts are predicting that by the end of 2014, interest rates may be back up in the five or even six percent range. While those predictions still represent appealingly low rates, they do provide a greater sense of urgency in the residential market. “I think people are feeling a renewed confidence in today’s market,” suggest Linda Wells. “Some are moving up, and it’s interesting that people who are
staying put are investing in their homes and making improvements – which is always a healthy sign.” “I think another thing drawing many buyers into the market is that everybody knows that we hit rock bottom already,” adds Craft. “Though you can never time the exact bottom, in retrospect you can easily see when things are going back up. Many people that were waiting in 2010, 2011 and 2012 are now ready to buy.” Jim Allen believes that we are returning to more of a normal market. “We are not a completely normal market yet,” he says, “but we are definitely trending that way.”v
RESOURCES
Andrew Roby...............................................................919-210-2928........................... www.andrewroby.com Blankenship Custom Homes.......................................919-852-0164.... www.blankenshipcustomhomes.com Bost Custom Homes....................................................919-460-1983.............................www.bosthomes.com Chatham Homes Realty.....................................Apex 919-387-9494............ www.chathamhomesrealty.com Pittsboro 919-545-2333 Siler City 919-663-0073 Forever Homes............................................................919-870-9711.....................www.foreverhomesnc.com Gepart Hill...................................................................919-785-1100.............................www.gepharthill.com Home Builders Association of Raleigh-Wake..............919-233-2033................................www.hbawake.com Neuhoff Custom Builders............................................919-786-0111......... www.neuhoffcustombuilders.com Pointe Realty Group......................................Raleigh 919-785-1100..................www.pointerealtygroup.com Lake Gaston 252-586-1150 Spencer Properties......................................................919-522-6349.....................www.kellysellsraleigh.com Standard Pacific Homes................................................................................. www.standardpacifichomes.com Traditions at Heritage Wake Forest.............................919-569-5375............................www.traditionsnc.com
APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 21
A SNAPSHOT OF RALEIGH’S KEY AREAS To provide the best read of the vibrant market of Raleigh and its surrounding areas, we looked to a variety of experts ranging from Real Estate consultants to local Realtors in each area. Each of these gurus offered their wealth of knowledge, years of experience, and a broad range of insight in these thriving markets.
Downtown Raleigh
Characterized by historic neighborhoods, picturesque backdrops and charming architecture, downtown Raleigh is considered by many as the heart of the capital city. It’s adored for its walk-ability to hip restaurants, clubs and boutique shops, multiple parks, mature landscaping, active Citizen Advisory Councils and close-knit neighborhoods. “There is so much vibrancy and demand for housing in this location,” explains Emma Littlejohn, real estate analyst and founder of The Littlejohn Group. “Like many places, new construction and the tear-down market has come back, and the whole area is really strong. It’s a trend we expect to continue this year. People are really being driven by the lifestyle downtown areas can offer including less commute time and a great diversity of amenities.” Because the neighborhoods can vary greatly – even block to block within the prestigious Inside the Beltline (ITB) area which includes Five Points, Historic Boylan Heights, Cameron Village, Hayes Barton, Glenwood, University Park, Oakwood and many other preferred areas – finding an expert within this area is crucial. The prestige definitely comes at a premium, but it’s not stopping the ever-expanding love affair for this unique community. Danny Taylor, specializing in the ITB area and owner of DT&Co. Real Estate, describes an average of $250 per square foot. Prices can even go as high as $320 per square foot in places such as Glenwood and Five Points, or you can occasionally find a fixer upper as low as $175 per square foot. “The resurgence of national tech companies coming into downtown has also fueled an influx of a diverse group of income levels entering the area, as well as the popularity of high-end apartment living,” said Taylor.
Wake Forest Located in the northern portion of the Research Triangle region, just Northeast of Raleigh, Wake Forest has experienced impressive growth with lots of new construction, a charming downtown area, three large golf course communities and an overall family atmosphere. Falls Lake boasts the appeal of water and all the joys of boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, hiking and more. “Northern Wake County features many million dollar homes within a beautiful forest of trees, privacy and estate neighborhoods,” said Linda Craft of Linda Craft & Team Realtors. Other developments like Heritage have also demonstrated Wake Forest’s excellent infrastructure and access to all sorts of desirable amenities. The building of many new schools and retailers are in progress as the area continues to expand, and the Wireless Research Center of North Carolina has been a great recent addition to their growing industry cluster.
Chapel Hill Known as one of the best college towns in America, Chapel Hill is home to the first U.S. public university, the University of North Carolina, opening in 1789. Its rich history of innovation, inclusivity and diversification attracts many. It is home to a wide offering of healthcare, a hot spot for foodies and shoppers, and an extensive system of tree-covered greenways connecting neighborhoods, commercial areas, parks and schools. “We’ve seen some very stable projects in Chapel Hill, Meadowmont and the Governor’s Club. They’ve done really well and we believe we’ll continue to see that,” describes Littlejohn. “Briar Chapel is probably one of the best communities on the Chapel Hill border. They have been setting records there with 250 new home sites delivered in 2013. Out of 168 home sales’ contracts last year, 45% were above 2012 sales.”
Cary
Apex and Holly Springs
Located west of Raleigh and convenient to Research Triangle Park and RDU Airport, Cary has shown impressive growth and potential with several interesting new residential projects in progress. The continued expansion of Cary and its many surrounding areas including Preston, Cary Park, Regency Park, Lochmere and others is due to its proximity to incredible job growth. “The announcement of insurance giant MetLife choosing Cary for their new technology hub is expected to bring over 1,000 local jobs to the area and an obvious expansion in real estate needs”, explains Linda Wells of Gephart Hill Realty. It’s expected that their new facility will bring around 1,400 new employees needing housing in the area. John Wood of RE/ MAX United believes Cary has really developed an interesting international flavor because of its great diversity, not just in its industries, but also lifestyles and variety of populations. Another exciting new development in the area includes the February reopening of The Cary Theatre, a classic movie theatre originally built in 1946 in their downtown area, now offering independent films, music and other live comedy and improve performances. The town of Cary is definitely considered in high demand offering attractive, convenient family living.
Situated in an appealing location close to the rest of the Greater Research Triangle metro, both Apex and Holly Springs offer wellplanned neighborhoods with plenty of attractions including shopping, restaurants, private and semi-private golf courses, cultural art centers, parks and recreational activities. “No matter where I am taking clients either in Cary, Apex or Holly Springs, it’s rare that I won’t show them the charming downtown area of Apex as a great place for restaurants, shopping and the overall small town U.S.A feel,” explains Wood. He adds that with substantial road improvements, it takes only 15 or 20 minutes to commute into downtown Raleigh in rush hour, another huge draw for residents of the area. Residents can also look forward to plans for continued road expansion to wrap through parts of Holly Springs and south of Raleigh as well. Apex has a new high school under construction, several new elementary schools in the planning stages, and a new Nature Park complete with an amphitheater, dog park, soccer fields, tennis, picnic areas and multi-use trails.
Durham Home to Duke University, Durham is a city experiencing a great deal of revitalization and change including a variety of luxury condos and apartments coming into their downtown area, several new restaurants, and plans for a new hotel among others. “We are so excited about Durham,” said Littlejohn. “We feel there is still a lot ahead there. As an example, White Oak Properties just started construction on their Church and Main residential condo project and it’s already 60% pre-sold for approximately $300 per square foot—it’s all about location, retail price and urban product.”
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Android
Mobile Apps
iPhone
APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 25
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affair
A FAMILY
By Anne Marie Ashley
APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 27
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WHEN THE SPIVAK FAMILY CAME TO designer Donna Davis of Design Works, they were ready for an overhaul of their long-lived-in Cary residence. Looking for a fresh update and a more open feel, they worked closely with Donna to create a space they could love for more years to come. Teaming up with Desi McAlister of Kitchen and Bath Galleries in Raleigh, Donna came up with a plan that coordinated well with the construction process down to the new furnishings. “I was able to pull the spaces together through finish selections, colors and furnishings,” adds Donna. The goal of the home update was to use some of their current items, while adding new furnishings that worked together to bring style and individuality to the overall look. “The rule of thumb was to keep it unique as well as personal,” explains Donna. “The grey and gold color scheme was part of the freshen up and really completes the look.” Donna was able to happily combine the traditional and
28 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
The goal of the home update was to use some of their current items, while adding new furnishings that worked together to bring style and individuality to the overall look.
contemporary styles that split the Spivak family down the middle into an overall transitional appeal that spoke to everyone. Her favorite example is the piano room. “We created an entirely new look by recovering an existing sofa, adding art and a great rug, new window treatments and extra seating.” After about five months of design and renovation, the Spivaks were ready to move back into their functional and sophisticated space, which made it feel like a whole new home. “Listening carefully to the client is what helps me create a home that they love and that reflects their style,” says Donna. She adds that function, good scale and great color are key tools to the best design projects. “Start with something you love and be open to adding some unexpected pieces.”v APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 29
ESSENTIALS NEW PRODUCTS
SPRING FORWARD 1.
Durston Road Sideboard, Vanguard Furniture. Available through Ivy Cottage Collections. www.ivycottagecollections.com.
2.
Winfield Buffet, Vanguard Furniture. Available through Ivy Cottage Collections. www.ivycottagecollections.com.
3.
Phoebe Rug, C.Wonder. www.cwonder.com.
4.
Botanical Vase, Lulu & Georgia. www.luluandgeorgia.com.
5.
Nikolo Duvet, John Robshaw. Available at Furbish Studio. www.furbishstudio.com.
6.
Mother of Pearl Mirror, Currey and Company. Available through Greenfront Interiors. www.greenfront.com.
7.
Berry and Thread Ice Blue Dinnerware, Juliska. Available at South Fine Gifts and Furnishings. www.souththeshop.com.
8.
Gustav Wing Chair, Larren Grey. Available at Whitley Furniture Galleries. www.whitleygalleries.com.
9.
Pastiche Chandelier, Currey and Company. Available through Eatmans Carpets and Interiors. www.eatmansinc.com.
1
2
3
4
5
6
9 8 7
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atman’s
RUGS, BROADLOOM, FURNITURE, ACCESSORIES 8101 Glenwood Ave ● (919) 782-6010 ● eatmansinc.com Check out our Facebook and our blog, eatmansinspired.blogspot.com
APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 31
Contributing Editor | Room Service
The Domino Effect
PATRICK CASEY Things aren’t always black and white, but there has to be an easier way.
On a recent cold and blustery morning, I was pacing through my showroom yearning for inspiration. I had a deadline for another photo shoot, and, like the falling snow and ice outside, all of my ideas were a blur. I anxiously thought to myself, ‘things aren’t always black and white, but there has to be an easier way.’ I somehow found my way out of the murky haze, quit pacing and headed down a different path. Before I knew it, the gray skies started to clear and hanging right before me was a spectacularly striking rug. Inspiration found! Within a matter of minutes, the board was cleared, the rug was set, and by shuffling around several dynamic pieces, a panoramic display of ebony and ivory began to take shape. As all the dots started to connect, I couldn’t help but notice something unexpected. When a single small change occurred, it would then cause a subsequent change nearby, which then trig-
32 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
Afterand gered another necessary change, and so on so forth...you get my point. It became a perfect domino effect. After all of my dominos found a rightful spot, I had to remind myself that it is imperative not to over-think the process. One must not be afraid to take that first step, make a decision and then move forward. My personal domino effect began when I got my head out of the clouds and was able to clearly see what was right in front of me the whole time. With my senses awakened, everything else fell right into place. It’s YOUR turn! Keep all options open and see how your game plays out.v
Patrick Casey is the manager of Green Front Interiors and Rugs in Raleigh, a store offering luxury furnishings, rugs and designs. Visit the Green Front store at 2004 Yonkers Road in Raleigh, or call them at 919-754-9754. For more information, visit www.greenfront.com.
APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 33
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REMODELING n TRENDS
Corbett Design Build
Home
2014 Remodelers
Tour 36 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
The Remodelers Council of the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Raleigh-Wake County announces the 2014 Annual Remodelers Home Tour. The tour takes place on Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 27, from 1 -5 p.m. The Remodelers Home Tour celebrates its 14th year and focuses solely on remodeling projects. Homes on the tour have completed remodeling projects in kitchens,
baths, room additions, basement remodels, outdoor living area remodels and many others, offering homeowners in the market for a remodel an opportunity to get inspiration and view the work of 16 top remodelers in the Triangle area. Homes and addresses are listed here and will be open to the public to tour for free during the specified times.v For more information on the Remodelers Tour, visit www.wakeremodelers.com.
Home Address
Project
Remodeler/Website
1803 Holly Street, Apex
Kitchen Remodel
Wake Remodeling, www.wakeremodeling.com
2101 Saint James Road, Raleigh
Whole House Renovation/Carport & Storage Addition
The Renovation Specialists, www.renovationspecs.com
1003 Palace Court, Apex
Kitchen, Living Area, Master Bath Remodel
TrendMark, www.trendmarkinc.com
4216 Mountainbrook Road, Apex
Whole House Remodel
Corbett Design Build, www.corbettdesignbuild.com
117 Antlers Point Drive, Cary
Kitchen + Bath Remodel
Davis Remodeling & Design, www.davisremodelingdesign.com
3915 Oak Park Road, Raleigh
Whole House Remodel
Blue Ribbon Residential Construction, www.blue-ribbon-construction.com
1900 Sturbridge Court, Raleigh
Whole House Remodel
WS Builders, www.wsbuildersnc.com
2500 Anderson Drive, Raleigh
Interior/Exterior Renovation
Archwood Building Company, www.archwoodbuilding.com
1307 College Place, Raleigh
Kitchen, Living Area, Bathroom, Backyard Renovation
Aaron Fitz Construction, www.aaronfitzconstruction.com
8905 Wildwood Links, Raleigh
Whole House Renovation + Addition
Thayer Custom Homes & Remodeling, www.thayercustomhomes.com
103 Oakpond Court, Cary
Kitchen, Powder Room, Laundry Room Remodel
Distinctive Remodeling, www.distinctiveremodeling.com
7909 Debenham Drive, Wake Forest
Family Room Addition
Paradise Found Construction, www.caryremodeling.net
2205 Clayette Court, Raleigh
Kitchen Remodel
Quality Design and Construction, www.qdcinc.com
2916 Lake Boone Place, Raleigh
Kitchen + Screened-In Porch Addition
Wood Wise Design & Remodeling, www.woodwisedesign.com
1620 Canterbury Road, Raleigh
Kitchen + Powder Room Addition
Neuhoff Custom Builders, www.neuhoffcustombuilders.com
4141 Piney Gap Drive, Cary
Finished Basement
Shail Homes Inc., www.shailhomes.com
Wood Wise Design and Remodeling
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SHUTTERS!
Call 877-779-3962 for a Free Estimate theplantationshutterco.com
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Remastered
Mountain Home By Anne Marie Ashley Photography by Jim Schmid
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It’s a gradual, but relatively quick process to distance yourself from the hustle and bustle
T
of the Triangle as you head West on Highway 40 towards the sleepy town of Lincolnton.
THE MOUNTAINS BEGIN TO REVEAL THEMSELVES between the gently rolling pastures that dot the landscape as you head away from the city. A drive through a quaint little downtown, recalls a scene where Michael J. Fox went back to the future, and after a few turns, historic Victorian homes and more farmland, the separation between hustle and bustle and calm widens with a sigh. The home sits on a slight hill in the middle of 125 beautiful acres. Resembling an old country train station, the home has a striking first impression. A cupola sits above a low hipped, slate roof and a screened porch faces a Western exposure—perfect for sunsets and Pinot Noir on crisp fall evenings. The beautiful cottage garden surrounds the home with eclectic colors, fragrances and shapes that almost force you to slow down
one last time before escape inside. But once inside, you almost forget you’re in the mountains of North Carolina. The chic surroundings offer a jolt of the city in the most peaceful of settings. The home is a masterpiece of creative teamwork – the homeowners, one a furniture designer by trade, the other a banking professional, both have a passion for art r art and antiques – Allen Brooks of ALB Architecture, Marilyn “Pete” Mangum of M. Pete Inc. and interior designer Aida Saul of Luxe Home Couture. “The home was originally designed to be a guest house,” said Pete. “Then the homeowners started using the home and enjoying it themselves. By the time the recession hit, they were used to the smaller scale and luxury of the home, so they decided to use it as a weekend home, and delay the construction of the larger residence.” APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 41
The open kitchen with whitewashed maple cabinets, granite countertops and a red glass tile backsplash pops with life. High-tech task lighting, adding a hint of modern to a rustic home, surrounds an antique pot rack. Beautiful artwork collected locally and through the homeowner’s extensive travels, draws you into the home’s living space and invites you to study its details. And so it goes throughout the rest of the home; a juxtaposition of old and new, high couture and rustic elegance. Walls and ceilings are covered in reclaimed antique barn siding and a loft can be reached by ladder for a living room overlook. The oversized fireplace stands five feet tall and is the dominant feature of the living area. 42 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE APRIL/MAY 2014
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“The fireplace was redesigned to be much larger to accommodate the scale of the antique end irons,” explains Aida. In the dining room, the chandelier offers grand inspiration; originally a flea market find, the piece features three colored glass globes surrounded by wrought iron. “The colors of the globes are so beautiful that we chose to use similar colors throughout the living space and a style that is slightly more contemporary,” said Aida. Two beautiful translucent fabric panels with multi-colored leaves etched in gold piping hang from the ceiling of the living room, separating the dining room from the living area. A mixture of eclectic and antique furniture is found throughout the home. Many of the pieces were handmade by one of the homeowners or collected from the St. Eulalie antique district in Quebec, near the couple’s second home. “Good interior design should start with pieces that anchor a space,” suggests Aida. “Then it should be progressively layered with items that add beauty and finishing touches. I like to create spaces that are very fluid, and that comes from creating tension and contrast between items.” The end result is an incredibly comfortable yet stylish retreat. “Design is not about creating matchy-matchy spaces,” offers Aida. “What’s especially nice about this home is the eclectic style of the homeowners is reflected in their garden outside and is carried into the home with their artwork and handmade furniture.”v
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“Good interior design should start with pieces that anchor a space, Then it should be progressively layered with items that add beauty and finishing touches. I like to create spaces that are very fluid, and that comes from creating tension and contrast between items.�
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速
11415 GRANITE STREET SUITE A CHARLOTTE, NC. PH: (704) 588-8842 DESIGN CENTER - TRADE ONLY LUXURY CARPET OUTLET - PUBLIC WELCOME www.starkcarpet.com Rug: Makeeda Collection: #104069A
LIFESTYLE PROFILE
William Travis Jewelry By Valentina Castillo
William Travis Jewelry, winner of the 2013 and 2014 American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) Spectrum Award, is known for its unique and artful custom jewelry. We sat down with owner William Travis Kukovich to find out more about what passions drive their team. We found out what makes them successful and why never saying, “no” to their clients is what makes the experience at William Travis Jewelry one-of-a-kind.
What makes William Travis Jewelry different from other jewelers? Travis: Our jewelry looks very different from the rest. I’ve never taken any art courses, and oddly, I think that’s been my biggest influence when it comes to creating unique jewelry. Our customer service also differs from the rest because we never say ‘no’ to our clients, and they find that very refreshing. The Triangle is full of art-loving people and they appreciate the customized feel they can’t find at other jewelers. How did you become passionate about the jewelry business? Travis: I’m a fifth generation metalsmith. I started working with my grandfather, father and brother when I was 12-years-old. As I grew older, I started narrowing down my ideas when it came to jewelry. Every time I made a piece I thought, ‘how can I make it different?’ How did you recognize a need for custom jewelry in the Triangle area? Travis: The biggest need was for a different type of jewelry. Our clients come into our store looking for something truly unique, and the ability to make custom designs allows for a lot of variety. So many things in our world today are customizable, why not do so with jewelry? We have the right tools to make it happen. What’s your philosophy on great jewelry? Travis: First of all, as a jeweler, you have to keep evolving. You have to create pieces with range – pieces that differ from one another. But most importantly, great jewelry is something you can wear everyday. Artful jewelry is timeless, and we want to create pieces our clients can wear for a lifetime.v
To find out more about creating a customized piece with William Travis Jewelry, visit their store located at 201 S. Estes Dr. Chapel Hill, NC. For more information, visit www.williamtravisjewelry.com or call 919-968-0011.
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Visit our new website to find your perfect ForeverHome!
www.ForeverHomeNC.com APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 49
Contributing Editor | Building a Better Home
If Walls Could Talk
RYAN CROSSER
WILL McKENDRY
A good architect or designer knows when and where to add that special detail.
If you’ve ever endured the painful process of removing wallpaper from your walls, you’ve probably sworn it out of your life forever. While wallpaper has been scraped, scoured and peeled right out of décor for the last decade, I want to urge you to reconsider this misunderstood design element. History repeats itself, as they say, and I believe we will be seeing a lot more character on our walls in 2014. Maybe it’s just my opinion, but I have always seen wallpaper as tacky, cheap and outdated. Over the years, I have come to prefer and appreciate a more clean, crisp and monochromatic aesthetic. However, I’ve noticed many of our clients going beyond the basic painted sheetrock wall and incorporating various wall coverings in their homes instead. And I have to admit; the special pop it adds has really won me over. Today’s wallpaper has come a long way from our mother’s homes. You will find bold colors and patterns, some textured grass cloths and even some luxurious fabrics. The options are endless, so make a statement and don’t be afraid to use it in unconventional places. Use it in your laundry room or stairway, for example. It’s an easy way to instantly add character to drab rooms. Wallpaper is not the only upgrade you can make to your walls, however. Another old-new trend is wood paneling. Wood slats can be hung horizontally or vertically, and can be applied in either tongue-and-groove style or butted. Instead of slats, you can add constructed panels that are built-in like cabinets. Many people are using antique or reclaimed wood for a rustic feel, but new wood will give a more sleek appearance. Either way, wood adds a lot of warmth to a room, whether you do an accent wall for a little pop or the whole room for that cabin feel. Stone is another option for your walls. Depending on the look you are going for, you can use full slabs or smaller tiles with grout joints. Where wood adds warmth, stone adds grandeur and formality. Stone has been very popular in kitchen and bath applications, but take it to your foyer or formal living areas for that special wow-factor. If you are just not friends with wallpaper, can’t warm up to wood and feel cold about stone, you can always just change the paint for an updated look. A lot of people feel married to the wall colors in their homes, but remember, paint is the easiest and cheapest way to update and spice up your home. If you haven’t changed the paint colors in your home in the last decade, give it a try! Go for a textured paint, do a bold accent wall or paint a pattern. Do something different to make your home feel brand new. Whatever your style, I urge you to make 2014 the year of upgrades in your home. If your walls could talk, I think they’d thank you.v Will McKendry, vice president of Andrew Roby Triangle, and Ryan Crosser vice president of Andrew Roby Coastal, both have extensive experience in custom home project management focusing on style and craftsmanship. For more information visit our website at www.andrewroby.com or call 919-210-2928 for Triangle projects and 252-648-8007 for coastal projects.
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Award-winning, Design/Build Custom Home Builder & Remodeler serving the greater Raleigh area.
It’s About the
DETAILS
As seen in the October / November issue of Urban Home Magazine
2433 Trinity Farms Road, Raleigh, NC | (919) 852-0164 | blankenshipcustomhomes.com APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 53
BOHO
CHIC
GO GO
GLAM STYLE GUIDE
Morgan Lashley
Caroline King
We are the owners of Vestique, a women’s clothing and accessories company based right here in Raleigh. Coming from corporate America, we traded our pencil skirts and button downs for skinny denims and crop tops, and we’re not complaining! We thought it would be fun to showcase our must-haves for a day and night in our worlds. We love mixing designer pieces with affordable ones to create unique and on-trend looks.
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2
DAYTIME CHIC
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1. Let’s Rock Crop, Vestique. www.vestique.com. 2. Jack High Short, Lovers + Friends. www.loversandfriends.us.
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3. Phoebe Thong Sandal, Tory Burch. www.toryburch.com. 4. Never Ending Necklace, The Giving Keys. www.thegivingkeys.com.
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All images courtesy of retailers.
morgan lashley caroline king 6
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5
NIGHTTIME GLAM 5. Eva Clutch in Damier, Louis Vuitton. www.louisvuitton.com. 6. Chainge of Heart Necklace, Vestique. www.vestique.com.
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7. Downtown Diva in Royal Blue, Vestique. www.vestique.com. 8. Toboggan Specchio Pump, Christian Louboutin. www.christianlouboutin.com.
Morgan Lashley and Caroline King are the owners and principal stylists at Vestique Boutique. Visit their shop at 1818 Oberlin Road, Suite 103 in Raleigh or shop their site at www.vestique.com. To make an appointment or for more information call 919-803-1033. APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 55
DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: REBECCA DRIGGS
by Anne Marie Ashley
WHY THE ROOM WORKS
This bedroom is dreamy, restful and a sure respite from the busy outside world. Traditional, yet modern with a serene undertone, we had to ask designer Rebecca Driggs how she created such a retreat for her clients. Rebecca: The homeowners wanted a space that was restful and luxurious. They also needed storage and a place to hide the television. We added a custom storage and entertainment center, which worked for several reasons. It provided extra storage for clothing, a hiding place for the television, a display for accessories, and overall it added personality to the room. To give the room even more character, we added custom molding to the angled ceiling and a beautiful grass cloth to the walls. Next, we brought in the furniture, mixing case goods and upholstery. On the case goods, we chose to use wood and painted finishes to create some contrast. The upholstered pieces, like the oversized headboard, bench and chair added softness to the room. Finally, we layered the room with luxurious bedding and beautiful floor-to-ceiling drapes.
Audrey Platform Bed, Vanguard Furniture. www.vanguardfurniture.com. Downton Table Lamp, Currey & Company Lighting. www.curreycodealers.com.
Woodward Bench in Antique Ivory Finish, Hickory Chair. www.hickorychair.com.
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Infinity Bedding, Ann Gish. www.anngish.com.
Grasscloth Wallpaper, Thibaut. www.thibautdesign.com.
grills & grilling accessories outdoor heating & fireplaces fireplaces, stove & inserts
1935 Evans Rd / Cary, NC
Mon - Fri 9am - 6pm Sat 10am - 4pm
[919] 678 0088
www.flueandflame.com
APRIL/ MAY 2014 URBAN HOME TRIANGLE 57
style&value
We craft the places where life converges.
And, when the time is right, we’re ready to bring style & value together in your home – the kitchen, bedroom, bath – wherever. Converging style & value since 195O. 919.210.2928
Members of
Professional Remodelers of the HBA of Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties
Home Builders Association Raleigh – Wake County
Home Builders Association Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties
MTNS TO COAST
G E N E R A L C O N T R AC TO R
andrewroby.com B
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the
Ro bee
R oby family of companies