Charlottesville HOME July/August 2014 by James River Media

HOME C H A R L O T T E S V I L L E

DESIGN

Solarize Charlottesville

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IMPROVE

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GARDEN

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LIVE

Small Spaces, BIG Style

SUMMER REFRESHERS INTERACTIVE CONTENT INSIDE

lemons, farmers markets & container gardens

July/August 2014, vol. 1, No. 3

Make mealtime

Memorable

It’s your home. When you re-imagine your space, it’s your life that gets a redesign. Transform yours with all the details that make home a happy place. Our showroom product experts share your passion for getting it right, helping you select the perfect bath, kitchen and lighting products for your building or remodeling project. FERGUSON.COM

This

Wouldn’t you like to have…

Without This

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n P U B L I S H E R ’ s note With this issue of Charlottesville HOME magazine, I’m excited to introduce Layar Augmented Reality (AR), a cutting edge technology that will digitally enhance your experience with HOME. This cool new app will connect you with more meaningful content right here through our printed pages using cameras and sensors in your smartphone or tablet to add layers of digital information – videos, photos, sounds – to our already-packed editorial content. By scanning an image or page with your phone or tablet, you will now be able to interact with our pages and discover even more information to enhance your home and garden.

HOME C H A R L O T T E S V I L L E

DESIGN

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IMPROVE

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GARDEN

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Volume 1 I ssue 3 PUBLISHER

Julie Pierce EDITOR

Laurel Feinman ART DIRECTOR

Trisha Roth

Here’s how it works–

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

Meridith Ingram CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

INTERACTIVE PRINT

Download the free Layar App

Scan this page

Discover interactive content

To get started, download the Layar (AR) app, and then look for the AR logo on pages 2, 11, 37 and 67, scan the page, and watch it come to life. I think you’ll find HOME more engaging, useful and entertaining than ever before with this exciting new feature. Give it a try and let us know what you think!

Jen Brestel Lucy Cook Laurel Feinman Chuck Hagerty Meridith Ingram Cory Morgan Carrie Waller PROOFREADER

Eileen Lass GRAPHIC ARTIST

Helga Kaszewski PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Beth Moore

— JULIE PIERCE, PUBLISHER

PHOTOGRAPHERS

julie@westwillowpublishing.com

Virginia Hamrick Robert Radifera BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT E TO SEE SCAN THIS PAG TOS OF ADDITIONAL PHO THIS HOME

Pam Whorley ADVERTISING SALES

Lyn Marie Figel Janet Lampman Anne Marie Poore Pam Whorley

A HitOhMa EstoriINed pIVastY w

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Charlottesville HOME is published bimonthly by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For an annual subscription, please send $20 and your name, address and telephone number to: Charlottesville HOME 3831 Old Forest Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@charlottesvillehomemagazine.com. To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Charlottesville HOME at info@charlottesvillehomemagazine.com.

West Willow Publishing Group, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com

SCAN THIS PAGE TO SEE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF THIS HOME

Copyright 2014 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned. As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

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contents Ch a r l ot t e s v ill e h o m e J u l y /Au gu s t 2 0 14

8 36 60

features SMAL L S PA C E S , G R E AT U S E S

Expert design advice for your small space BY Lau r e l F e i n ma n

MORE T H A N M E E T S T H E E Y E

Historic home with a fabled past BY Lau r e l F e i n ma n

INDIV I D U A L C O M M I T M E N T, G R O U P E F F O R T

Landowners protect the environment BY Lau r e l F e i n ma n

Cover Photo Guest cottage at the home of Karen and Dennis Johnson Photography by Robert Radifera

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Ch a r l ot t e s v ill e h o m e J u l y /Au gu s t 2 0 14

departments 16

DESIGN

IMPROVE

GARDEN

LIVE

32 S imply S outhern Monogramming adds personal touches throughout your home

20 DISASTER REC O V E RY What to do if water wreaks havoc on your home

16 C ommon Law n P roblems Solved Identify and tackle the most common problems

28 LEMON FRESH Summer-bright flavors for your table

BY C o ry M o r gan

By J e n B r este l

26 BRIGHT IDEA Solarize Charlottesville BY Lau r e l F e i n man

56 Home Generators Keep your home powered up while the powerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out

BY C o ry M o r gan

50 CHOOSING THE RIGHT GARDEN C O N TA I N E R S Picking the right pots and planters for your porch BY M e r i d ith I n g r am

By C h u c k Hag e r ty

BY Lu cy C o o k

54 FA R M E R S M A R K E T S Great places to buy local BY Car r i e Walle r

Plus: carry it home in style! 66 A R O U N D T OW N Southern Development Homes Unveils New Design Center

28 S pecial I nterest 6 6 Index of Advertisers 6

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n editor ’ s note To me, summer has always been about trying new things and taking safe risks. Starting way back during my cannonball days on “the blob” at Camp Longhorn, I’ve always loved the little thrills of summertime. It must have something to do with that intoxicating blend of sunscreen, pop music and flashy beach ball colors. We all have those friends that egg us on and teach us new tricks, don’t we? Thanks to their fresh insight, we get our own creative juices flowing and all sorts of new possibilities emerge. I hope you’ll consider the experts we interviewed for our article on “Small Spaces” as your new friends—ready to help you unleash fresh potential in your home’s quaint spots. As the dog days set in, we’ll show you how to spruce up your hot-and-tired porch planters to get through the second half of summer. Running out of ideas for things to do on these long days of the solstice? Check out our suggestions, make the rounds at some of our area’s best farmers markets and gather fresh ingredients to re-ignite your passion for produce. As summer heats up, sometimes things can go wrong on the home front. Seems like every summer, I have at least one friend who returns from a lovely week at the beach to a water-filled

Exquisite Estate Boonsboro area of Lynchburg

entry hall thanks to a clogged hose in their air handler or a wild summer storm. Whatever the cause, cooler heads prevail as we walk you through the steps to recovery from an at-home water disaster. The July/August edition of Charlottesville HOME magazine offers you a refreshing respite, full of practical advice, ideas and inspiration…good reading for an afternoon in the hammock.

—LAUREL FEINMAN, EDITOR laurel@westwillowpublishing.com

Nadine Blakely, REALTOR Multi-Million Dollar Producer since 2007

Specializing in families ... their homes & their lifestyles!

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S M A L L

S P A C E ,

BIG STYLE Strategies for Making the Most of Any Small Space BY L au r e l F ei n m a n BY L AURE L F EINM A N

Every home has one, and yours does too: that small space youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never quite known how to handle. Deep down, you know your little nook has untapped potential. You just need some fresh ideas and inspiration to access it! Here are three different small rooms and some expert design strategies that might give your small space a big personality.

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500 SQUARE FEET

DESIGNER’S PETITE ABODE P h ot o g r a p hy by V irg ini a H a m r i c k Designer Linda Martin had the courage to break one of the most highly regarded small space design “rules” when she moved into her petite abode on her son’s property. Many designers would recommend only using furnishings that are scaled for the room. But Linda defied that rule—and with great results. Across one entire wall, Linda uses an enormous 10-foot long antique display hutch as a media center, bookcase, display space and home office. It’s so big, in fact, that she had to hire workmen to remove one of the windows in the room to get the top half of it in, and they removed the stairway banister outside in order to get the bottom cabinets through the door. When she saw it at Circa, she recognized it and had to have it. It was a display case from The Young Men’s Shop, a place she remembered visiting as a little girl with her grandfather and father as they admired hats. It brought back happy memories and she knew it would fill many needs in her new home. Linda says, “I think the key to choosing furniture for a small space has much more to do with its functionality than its form. Choose furniture that serves several purposes.” Her kitchen table, when its leaves are added, becomes a worktable where she can spread out and create design boards for her clients. 10

She also explains that the lower cabinets of the hutch hold all of her design files and home office equipment. Everything is neatly tucked away behind closed doors. She saved one cabinet for her grandchildren’s toys. “When they were younger and would come across the lawn to visit me, they would go right to it. They knew that’s where I kept special things for them. Now that they’re older, they still come across the lawn to visit, but we usually just sit on the sofa and enjoy favorite television shows together,” she explains. Hanging above the sofa is a gigantic painting called “Changing Weather” by Andrea Hahn. One might think that such large artwork could overwhelm the room. In this case, it actually helps anchor the space and relate to the large cabinet across the room. When she scaled down from living in a 6,000-square-foot home to her new carriage house a fraction of the size, Linda gave her children, who were all-too-happy recipients, most of her former furnishings. “I had such fun shopping for my new little home and choosing just the exact right things for it,” she says. C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

“Choose furniture that serves several purposes.” – Linda Martin

Linda uses multi-tasking pieces of furniture in her home. Her bedside “table” is a beautiful chinoiserie dresser, which she uses for holding clothes.

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URBAN RETREAT P h ot o g r a p hy by Ro b e r t Ra d i fe r a The owners of Folly Home Furnishings, Victoria Pouncey and Beth Ann Kallen, were commissioned to work on an apartment in The Gleason Building near downtown. Once the site of a farm equipment supply store, The Gleason was converted into luxury apartments and retail space in 2005. A busy professional woman who recently moved from New York City owns the apartment and had two special requests that drove the design decisions in the den: that Pouncey and Kallen use her indigo blue velvet pullout sofa and that they incorporate an antelope-patterned wool rug by Starck that she admired. All of the design team’s fabric and furniture choices in the den, which is also sometimes used as a home office and even a spare room for overnight guests, prove that small can be chic. Pouncey says they were careful in selecting furniture and accessories so that nothing looks cumbersome or like it is weighing down the room. Reflective items made of glass and Lucite virtually disappear. Mirrors and shiny lacquered furniture reflect light, keeping the room from feeling crowded and heavy. An antique ebonized campaign desk with a dark green leather tabletop pad is used as a desk or as a bar, depending on whether the homeowner is working or entertaining. Kallen says, “Because it is leggy, it seems to take up almost no floor space.” Of course, one of the most eye-catching things in the room may be its color: a dark, brooding charcoal grey called “Downpipe” by Farrow & Ball. Pouncey explains, “The dark color makes the corners disappear. When a deep color is used as the backdrop, everything else stands out.” The accessories, upholstery fabrics and even the trim on the drapery pull colors from the rug, adding an organic touch that keeps the room from feeling overly sleek. Pouncey says, “It’s so important to pay attention to the details in a small space.” From the worn leather baseball signed by Mickey Mantle to the acrylic tray showcasing a vintage map of New York, the den is a warm and comfortable place that gives subtle hints about the person who lives here and invites her guests to stay longer. 12

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“It’s so important to pay attention to the details in a small space.”

175 SQUARE FEET

– Victoria Pouncey

This trim by Kelly Wearstler for Groundworks shows how a small detail can help pull a room’s look together through the use of color.

The hole truth.

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N a t u r al

“It’s like you’re floating!”

tresses makes a better bed. Better pressure absorption, better support and better temperature regulation. Millions of tiny holes act like mini air ducts that vent body heat. They comes with a warranty that’s twice as long as Tempurpedic™ and SavvyRest™ and best of all, you’ll spend less. A whole lot less!

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1,000 SQUARE FEET

The most recent efficiency-minded addition to the guest cottage are solar panels, installed just a few months ago but in the plan from the beginning.

FUN-SIZE GUEST COTTAGE P h ot o g r a p hy by Ro b e r t Ra d i fe r a Karen and Dennis Johnson had one of their first dates on the picturesque farm they now call home. The 80-acre property in Keswick has been in Karen’s family for as long as she can remember and was always one of her favorite places. Karen explains, “My dear cousin lived here until she died. We were very close. We used to come out all the time with our children.” When the Johnsons had the opportunity to purchase the property, Karen says the timing was perfect. “We were living in Hershey, Pennsylvania but were ready to move back to Charlottesville. It was meant to be!” There was only one problem: the 200-year-old farmhouse was so badly infested with termites that it had to be torn down. Karen says, “It wasn’t a total loss, though. Some of the old doors and porch railings were saved and are used in the new structure.” With the help of Doug Lowe of Artisan Construction, the Johnsons broke ground on a new-but-looks-old farmhouse and guest cottage. Their children live far away and often stay for extended periods. Karen says, “We built the cottage so they will come often, be comfortable and maintain a sense of independence when they’re here.” 14

The exterior of the 1,000-square-foot cottage is a miniature version of the main house. Inside are two small bedrooms and a loft, a kitchen, full bath and laundry, and a living room— everything you need for a comfortable stay. Karen credits her friend Amy Turnage, a designer, for helping her with the home’s design. Karen says, “The key to working with a small space is planning and thinking through all the ways it can be efficient.” For instance, the hot water heater and HVAC system are in the crawl space under the house, instead of in a closet or an attic, where you usually find them. “That space-saving trick is how we were able to include the laundry units and the loft with the wallsized flat-screen television.” Lowe adds, “The efficiency of the cottage goes beyond a spacemaximizing design. It’s energy-efficient, too.” Lowe explains that they used a special kind of spray foam insulation and other energy-efficient building materials that aren’t commonly used in construction because they tend to be pricier than other options. Lowe says, “Energy-efficiency is important to the Johnsons, so we selected materials that suited their needs.” This welcoming cottage has all the amenities of a much larger house, thanks to its well-planned design. From the space-saving stacked washer and dryer to fantastic views of the farm thanks to an abundance of windows, guests who are lucky to stay here will love calling it their “home away from home.” C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

WEISS

“The key to working with a small space is planning and thinking through all the ways it can be efficient.”

A R C H I T E C T TELEPHONE OR TEXT: 434.242.9288 EMAIL: SCOTT@WEISS-ARCH.COM WEBSITE: WWW.WEISS-ARCH.COM

– Karen Johnson

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When you’re ready to tackle your small space, think about how you will be using it and what you’ll need for the space to work. With proper planning and a little bit of design magic, you can create the illusion of having more square footage than you actually do, letting color unify it and the furnishings serve many purposes—all tricks that can help you live large in any small space. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

HOURS

Monday–Saturday 10–5:30 Sunday 1–5

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MIL K J U GS BRA ID ED RU GS S H A V I N G M U G S D E P R E S S I O N G L A S S ART GLASS DEPRESSING ART TRIBAL ART CAKE PLATES SILVERPLATE CHANDELIERS L A M P S S T A M P S W H A L E HARPOONS BRASS SPITTOONS C R A Z Y Q U I LT S C R A Z Y H AT S H AT R A C K S P A C K R AT S T O Y TRAINS WINDOWPANES TEA SETS F O N D U E S E T S C R O Q U E T S E T S STICKY WICKETS IRON PICKET S LAMPS IN PAIRS GIFTS FOR HEIRS MARTINI SHAKERS DRINKMAKERS R U G S O F R A G S B E A D E D B A G S B R E A D B A K E R S B A K E R S R A C K S GUNNY SACKS GUN RACKS RACKS OF ANTLERS COW HORNS HORNS O F P L E N T Y P L E N T Y O F B R A S S BRASS BELLS DOOR BELLS DOOR KNOCKERS FOOT LOCKERS DOLL R O C K E R S D O L L C L O T H E S O L D C L O T H E S O L D W I N D O W S H O U S E S H U T T E R S H O U S E WA R M E R S B E D WA R M E R S H E A D WA R M E R S O L D H A T S M E N S S P A T S

AFFORDABLE ANTIQUES • QUALITY USED FURNITURE 15

n GARDEN TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS

Large-Scale Lawn Problems, Solved! BY Co ry M o r g a n

Since your lawn’s initial burst of green back in the spring, you may have been keeping an eye on a few questionable patches in your turf that haven’t seemed to recuperate after winter. It is quite possible that these patches indicate your lawn has a disease, a fairly common problem given our hot, humid summers. Determining if your lawn is diseased can be tricky. It’s easy to mistake a diseased lawn for one that is suffering from environmental factors like drought, heat, poor soil makeup or over-application of fertilizers and pesticides. Lawn diseases are the result of fungal infections, not bacteria or pests. That’s why it is important to know exactly what you are dealing with since extra watering and pouring on pesticides could actually feed a fungus and exacerbate the problem. 16

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You may want to buy a do-it-yourself lawn testing kit or take a sample to your local county extension office and ask them to help you identify your lawn problem. Go to a place in your yard where dead grass meets healthy grass. This is called the disease margin. With a trowel, cut a four-inch square of turf from the disease margin, including the roots and making sure to include both dead grass and healthy grass in your sample. Keep the sample from drying out or becoming too hot by placing it in an unsealed plastic bag. If you cannot take the sample to the extension office right away, your sample will keep in the refrigerator for a few hours. While you await the results of your lawn test, arm yourself with information about the most common lawn diseases in our area and how to prevent them so you can restore your yard to its peak condition. The Common Thread

The most common turf grasses seen in Virginia are tall and fine-leaf fescues, Kentucky bluegrass and ryegrass. These varieties are generally known to be hearty and disease-resistant, but there are a few fungal lawn infections that can be devastating and they all share one thing in common: big ugly patches of dead grass in an otherwise healthy-looking lawn. According to Corbin Snow of Snow’s Garden Center in Charlottesville, “Brown patch fungus is the most common disease that we see in lawns during the summer months.” Snow also says that red thread is another prevalent summertime lawn disease in our area. Thankfully, these diseases all have a few telltale signs to help you identify them. Brown patch (also called rhizoctonia blight) creates huge brown and yellow patches in lawns, some up to several feet in diameter. Brown patch has the potential to kill your lawn and is “most prevalent during hot, humid weather,” notes Snow. This will most likely mean your lawn is susceptible June through September. Early symptoms of this lawn disease will show patches of wilted green grass that quickly turn brown, sometimes with a grey or gold-colored ring along the edges of the patch. This ring is a sign that the lawn disease is spreading and infecting new grass. Infected grass blades will usually have brownish lesions covering them. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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One distinctive trait of brown patch is the “frog’s eye”—a small doughnut-shaped patch of green grass growing in the center of a large brown dead patch. How do frog’s eyes form? The center of each brown patch is where the disease first begins. Since it is the oldest part of the diseased patch, it is the first to recover, thus the mound of green grass in the middle. Snow explains that red thread receives its name due to the characteristic small, reddish-pink streaks that appear on infected grass blades. Though red thread will not kill most grasses, it can be very unsightly in a homeowner’s lawn. If you notice lots of small irregularly shaped brown or yellow spots in your lawn, it could be the result of red thread. Given enough time, these smaller spots may join together and create larger, unappealing patches. If you inspect these areas closely, you might notice the red threads on the grass blades or maybe even a pinkish, cotton- or spider web-like substance (mycelium) near the base of the blades. Red thread is usually considered a nuisance disease and as summer progresses, the fungus that causes it will likely subside due to high temperatures or drought. Your lawn may begin to recover on its own, without any fungicide treatments necessary. Fight the Fungi and Prevent the Patches

As tempting as it may be, do not water diseased patches of grass, as this will only improve the growing conditions for a fungus. If you are certain that your lawn has a fungal lawn disease, applying fungicides might be the best route back to a healthy lawn. Snow says, “Fungicides can be rather expensive and their use does not necessarily guarantee a complete removal of the C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

When seeding any type of new grass, it is important to do it in the fall instead of early spring, which is a common mistake that many homeowners make.

disease.” Before applying anything to your lawn, consult a lawn care professional to determine which fungicide is best for your lawn’s particular problem. You can take some simple preventative steps to help your lawn remain disease-free. One of the main contributors to lawn disease is overwatering. Snow advises, “Water infrequently, but for a long period of time so that the water has a chance to soak deeply into the soil. This will help the plants develop deep root systems that can better handle drought, heat and other summer stress.” Proper mowing procedures can also keep your lawn healthy. Experts recommend keeping your grass about 3 inches tall. “Mow to the correct height and when grass is dry. And, keep your mower blades sharpened,” says Snow. If your lawn is beyond repair or habitually prone to disease, it might be time to consider replacing your turf grass with a sturdy disease-resistant variety like Kentucky bluegrass or ryegrass. When seeding any type of new grass, it is important to do it in the fall instead of early spring, which is a common mistake that many homeowners make. “Fertilizing in the fall, and only in the recommended amount, helps prevent lawn fungus infestations that like to attack over-fertilized, over-stressed lawns,” adds Snow. Summertime, the peak of the growing season for your yard, is the perfect time to study your lawn and decide if you should seed it come autumn. The beauty of a lawn can be quickly destroyed by a fungus, but with a little knowledge and some good lawn care habits, you can maintain a disease-free and healthy turf, keeping your lawn the envy of the neighborhood!

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n IMPROVE DISASTER RECOVERY

SWIFT WATER RESCUE What to Do When Water Unexpectedly Damages Your Home BY Co ry M o r g a n

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Few things are more frightening from a homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspective than to arrive home and open the door to a waterfall flowing down the steps. Whether due to a broken water main, a leaky pipe or the kids leaving the sink running upstairs, water damage can be devastating to your home. While it is common for homeowners to invest in precautionary measures to prevent burglaries or fires, many overlook the likelihood that water damage could occur in their home. Insurance studies show that water damage to a home is estimated at six times more likely to occur than burglary and seven times more likely than fire damage. Considering these odds, knowing how to react if water damage occurs and how you can prevent it from happening again will help you tackle any situation, from the smallest of leaks to a completely flooded basement. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Immediate Action

Upon discovering water damage in the home, you should take a few immediate steps to limit the damage. If possible, turn off the electricity, especially if the water level threatens to reach electrical outlets, and then unplug any electronic devices in the affected area. If you are dealing with a continuous flow of water, such as a burst pipe, turn off your water main valve. Contact an emergency plumber or water damage expert immediately if water is spewing out of your control. Once you have done what you can to bring the problem to a halt, it is important to start documenting everything, as you will likely soon be working on a claim with your insurance company if the damage is significant. Take photographs of all of the damaged areas at their worst and write down a timeline of the events and the steps that you took after you discovered the accident. Dry it Out!

Depending on the extent of your water damage, getting rid of the standing water and drying everything out can be tedious, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an important step that should not be rushed. In fact, improper drying-out methods can lead to even bigger problems later, like black mold. First, remove all wet furnishings from the home, as keeping them inside will only increase the time it takes for the water to dry out. If the water affected any carpet or rugs, pull them up and clean and disinfect them, allowing them to dry completely. It is possible that the carpet can be saved if handled early enough. If it happens to shrink, it might be able to be repurposed as an area rug. However, you will need new padding. You may not have to pull up the carpet at all if you contact a professional water extraction service right away. If weather permits, open all your windows to increase the airflow in your home. Use old towels, buckets and mops to soak up as much water as you can. Alternatively, you can rent a wet vacuum or a sump pump, but do take caution to plug them in an outlet that is located away from any standing water. After any standing water is removed, it generally takes 2-5 days (depending on the humidity) for the entire structure to dry. Window fans, attic fans, and dehumidifiers are good options to speed up the drying process, but refrain from using heaters because heating wet wood could warp the floors and promote bacteria growth. If you are dealing with water damage that was caused by a roof leak, you will need to replace the insulation in your attic because it will likely be ruined. The weight from the water can even cause sags in your ceiling. Check all ceilings for water spotting; even a small leak can lead to ceiling problems in multiple rooms. Extremely damaged ceilings might actually collapse. 22

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If your basement was affected, it is likely that any drywall the water touched will need to be replaced as it crumbles very easily. Baseboards may be salvageable if they are made of solid wood. For situations where water has seeped into the walls, you should contact a professional, as special drying techniques to reach inside the walls may be necessary. The Cleanup

Once the drying process is complete, you need to clean and disinfect the affected areas to prevent bacteria and mold growth. It is crucial that every surface is completely dry before treating for mold; otherwise, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to kill all of the spores. All homes have some mold present, even in the best conditions, but the wet environment created by a water leak can leave you susceptible to mold in much greater quantity, which can become a serious health hazard. The most infamous household mold is black mold, which is not just unsightly, but dangerous. Black mold can cause structural damage to your home and can even be fatal to humans and pets if it gets into the respiratory system. Thoroughly disinfect the areas in your home that were in contact with the water. You can use a mixture of bleach and water to disinfect the area, but spot-test the surface in an inconspicuous area to be sure the bleach does not cause discoloration. Given the health risks of mold exposure and the extent of the damage, it may be best to hire a professional to handle the cleanup for you. If your water damage was slight and you are dealing with the problem yourself, wear gloves and a safety mask that covers your nose and mouth.

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Reconstruction Process

Once you have waited out the drying process, made certain that your drywall and structure is free from mold, and worked out the details of an insurance claim with your insurance company, it’s time to make restorations to your home. This could be a great opportunity to make other renovations or updates to your home. Know your budget and plan everything you want to accomplish during the restoration process. You might want to hire a licensed contractor that specializes in water damage recovery and repair. In Virginia, contractors are divided into three classes: class A (unrestricted in the dollar amount of contracts they may complete), class B (can perform work on projects up to $120,000), and class C (can perform work on projects that are less than $10,000). Ask questions about how much experience they have dealing with water damage recovery, and don’t be afraid to request references from past clients. After all is said and done, you will have a unique hindsight on the whole situation. This is a great opportunity to reevaluate your insurance policy while everything is fresh in your mind and assess whether or not it was sufficient in handling your needs. You may want to meet with an insurance adjuster to update your policy and ensure you are better protected if something similar occurs in the future. Most important, enjoy your newly rehabilitated home and take comfort knowing that you have successfully handled a tough situation. Preventive Steps

There are a few preventive measures that homeowners can take, regardless of whether you’ve had problems with water damage in

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the past. All family members in the home should know the exact location of the water main and how to shut it off. Find it and label it, maybe with neon-colored tape. You don’t ever want to be in the position of stumbling around in a dark basement frantically searching for the water main. Additionally, it is a good idea to shut off your water completely if you go away from home for an extended period. Be sure to do a yearly inspection of your water-using appliances (fridge, washing machine, dishwasher, etc.) to check for leaks in hoses. If you have older appliances, you may want to consider replacing rubber hoses with the stainless steel-braided, flexible hoses. Also inspect tubs, faucets and sinks for cracks and crevices. If found, you can likely take care of these spots yourself with an ordinary tube of caulk from the hardware store. Recovering from water damage in your home can be an arduous process; however, knowing how to react as soon as you encounter the problem is half the battle. Armed with these tips for success in managing and preventing water damage of any magnitude, you’ll now know how to keep your head above water if you’re ever faced with this sinking situation. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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n IMPROVE SOLARIZE CHARLOTTESVILLE

A BRIGHT IDEA! catch some rays BY L au r e l F ei n m a n

“Solarize Charlottesville” is an eco-friendly home improvement program—only available for signups from July 1 to September 30—made possible by a cooperative effort between the non-profit organization known as LEAP (Local Energy Alliance Program) and the UVA Community Credit Union. Its goal is to make solar energy an affordable and easy option for as many Charlottesville homeowners as possible. Jon Proffitt, who manages the Solarize Charlottesville program, explains, “The idea is that our program seeks to drive down an individual’s out-of-pocket solar panel installation costs. We hope that doing so will entice the largest possible number of people to participate.” 2 6

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Power to the People

Solarize Charlottesville uses the moneysaving tactics of bulk purchasing and group contracting in its solar panel installation program—an idea similar to friends pitching in to buy large quantities of an item at a discount and then divvying up the goods. Once several installation contracts have been signed, the installers will make a bulk order for equipment and begin installing solar panels across town. Homeowners who are interested in “going solar” may contact Solarize Charlottesville to request a site assessment to determine whether their home is a good candidate for solar panels. If their site looks promising, Solarize Charlottesville will send out a solar specialist to recommend a system and give homeowners an estimate on the cost to install it. Solarize Charlottesville will then provide information to the homeowners about financing their solar panel system through the UVA Community Credit Union’s PowerSaver Loan program. By being a part of the Solarize Charlottesville c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

program, homeowners will be well versed on any product manufacturer rebates and federal, state or local tax incentives or rebates that may be available. Proffitt says, “Now is a great time to tap in to solar energy. It is the fastestgrowing source of renewable energy in the United States and more affordable to initiate than ever, thanks to the support of rebates and tax incentives, and programs like ours popping up in cities all across the country.” Don’t Be Left in the Dark

What if your home site doesn’t get enough sunlight or you’re simply not interested in installing solar panels on your home? There are lots of other great energy-saving home improvement projects you can do, like replacing doors and windows, upgrading your air conditioning or heating system, installing a new water heater and improving your home’s insulation—all projects that may also be included by the credit union’s PowerSaver Loan program. Proffitt explains, “The UVA Community Credit Union is helping

the effort by offering low-cost financing for a variety of energy-efficient home improvements.” He adds, “Our partnership helps Charlottesville homeowners become as energy-efficient as possible, whether that means figuring out the financing and installation of solar panels or improving their home’s thermal envelope through better insulation and improved HVAC equipment.” Making your home more energyefficient is a good idea for so many reasons, including helping you save money on your household’s day-to-day operating costs. Proffitt says, “Studies show that utility bills are one of the highest monthly expenses for most households and that energy-efficient home improvements can bring those costs down by as much as 30 percent.” Now, that’s really putting “the green” into “going green!” To find out more about Solarize Charlottesville or to enroll in the program, go to www.solarizecville.org.

n LIVE LEMONS

Pucker Up!

Lemons Can Brighten Any Dish BY Lu cy Co o k

2 8

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hen life gives you lemons…consider yourself lucky! Thinking about lemons and all of their uses in the kitchen makes me think that they are as vital an ingredient as salt and pepper. Lemons are an irreplaceable ingredient in both sweet and savory cooking, but also can be used as a natural preservative, disinfectant, deodorizer, stain remover and wood polish! One of the best things about lemons is that they are available year-round. When shopping for lemons, choose fruit that is smooth, blemish-free and that seems heavy for its size. Many fruits, including lemons, may be treated with pesticides in the orchard, and with additional chemicals to reduce the chance of rot during shipping. For that reason, it’s best to buy organic lemons, especially when your recipe calls for using the peel. Here’s a little bit of lemon lingo: lemon zest is the shiny, brightly colored outermost portion of the lemon peel and has the brightest and most intense flavor. Be careful when you’re zesting because the white pith that lies just underneath is very bitter. You’ll need to use an easy touch and a very fine grater or a microplane tool to finely shred the zest. When a recipe calls for lemon peel, this refers to peeling the top-most layer of the skin and leaving it more intact, in larger pieces. A vegetable peeler or paring knife is perfect for this task. If you need only the lemon peel for your recipe, juice the lemon and save it in a spare ice cube tray in the freezer. If your recipe calls for zest (or peel) and juice, first grate the entire peel and then cut and juice the fruit. You’ll get more juice out of a room-temperature lemon than a cold one, although a short time (ten seconds) in the microwave will also do the trick. Roll the lemon on the counter using firm pressure to break down some of the fibers and increase the amount of juice the fruit will release. A lemon squeezed on apples or avocados serves as a preservative and keeps them from turning brown. A half lemon dipped in salt can be used to scrub, disinfect and deodorize a cutting board. A half lemon dipped in baking soda will bring back the luster to a copper pan. And, lemon juice boiled in your microwave will get rid of cooking smells and loosen baked-on food. When life gives you lemons, don’t be a sour puss! Find something great to do with them. There are too many great recipes that use lemons to include all of them here, but here are a few of my favorites. In addition to the recipes I’ve included, I think two fantastic summer projects for you to research and make your own are limoncello, a delicious lemon liqueur with origins in Italy, and preserved lemons, a Moroccan specialty. To make limoncello, lemon zest is steeped in vodka for a week, then mixed with simple syrup and “aged” for two more weeks to be enjoyed as an adultsonly lemonade or a flavoring agent in cooking. Making preserved lemons requires pickling them in salt and their own juices for at least three weeks, and can be used in everything from tagines to salad dressing. Pucker up…and happy cooking!

Lemon Pasta (Serves 4-6) This is a versatile dish that I’ve been making for 20 years. It’s a great side dish (serves 6), or add 2 pounds of shelled shrimp tossed with olive oil, salt and pepper and roasted at 400 degrees for 6 minutes to serve it as an entrée. 4 tablespoons butter 1 cup cream ½ cup fresh lemon juice Grated peel of 3 lemons Your favorite pasta, prepared according to package directions ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup chopped flat leaf parsley Heat butter and cream in a skillet until cream starts to boil. Add lemon juice and peel. Reduce by half, stirring constantly. Cook pasta in well-salted water and drain. Add pasta to the sauce and toss with cheese and parsley. Add roasted shrimp prior to serving, if desired. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Lemon Curd (makes 2 cups) The essence of lemon, this delicious lemon spread is a great thing to have on hand. Use it to fill a premade tart shell or as a filling in your favorite cake. 3 eggs ½ cup sugar Finely grated zest of 3 lemons ½ cup fresh lemon juice (3-4 lemons) 6 tablespoons butter, cut into 6 pieces at room temperature

Eton Mess (serves six) This is my take on a traditional British dessert! I love the soft and crunchy textures, and the sweet and tart flavors. 4 large egg whites 1 cup sugar ¾ cup heavy cream

Whisk the eggs, sugar, zest and juice in a two-quart non-reactive saucepan. Add the butter and cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until the butter has melted and the mixture has thickened. Pass through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, and press a sheet of plastic wrap on the surface of the curd. Keeps up to two weeks.

3 tablespoons powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 pint berries (strawberries, blackberries or both) ½ cup lemon curd (see next recipe) First, make the meringue: Preheat the oven to 250. Line a baking sheet with parchment. Beat the egg whites at high speed with a mixer until they hold soft peaks. Add the sugar and continue beating until the eggs hold stiff peaks. Plop the mixture by large spoonfuls on the parchment, smoothing the tops so they stand about an inch high. Bake in the preheated oven for 90 minutes. Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside until the oven is cool (about an additional 90 minutes). Peel the meringues off the parchment and crumble into bite-sized pieces. Whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla in a chilled bowl. Set aside 6 berries for garnish. Smash the remaining berries with a fork. In six wine or other clear glasses, layer the crumbled meringues, a spoonful of lemon curd, a spoonful of berries and a dollop of whipped cream, making at least two layers. Top each dessert with a whole berry. Can be made up to five hours in advance. 3 0

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soak up the sun , soak up the savings For low rates on solar panel installations, solar water heaters and more, get a PowerSaver loan!

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Lemon Tea Cake (makes a one-pound loaf, about 8 slices) We eat this for breakfast and as dessert. It would be a companyworthy dessert with a dollop of lemon curd and fresh whipped cream. The glaze is optional. Butter and flour for preparing pan 3 tablespoons lemon zest 1 cup sugar 1 ½ cups flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt ¾ cup Greek yogurt (full fat is preferable) ½ cup canola oil 2 eggs ½ teaspoon vanilla Glaze: ¼ cup lemon or orange marmalade 1 teaspoon water

* APR =Annual Percentage Rate. Rate is accurate as of 7/1/2014 and is subject to change without notice. Rate is tied to the loan term; longer terms result in higher rates. All loans subject to credit union membership and credit criteria. Property and other restrictions may apply. See credit union for details. † City of Charlottesville homeowners participating in the Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) Solarize Charlottesville campaign may be eligible for an interest rate reduction on PowerSaver Loans. Homeowner must apply and be approved by LEAP for this interest rate reduction. Not all PowerSaver Loan program terms are available under the LEAP interest rate reduction program and offer may be discontinued by LEAP at any time without notice. This credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

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Handmade pasta. Made daily. Catering Available.

Preheat the oven to 350. Lightly butter a one-pound loaf pan then dust with flour, tapping out excess. Using your hands, rub lemon zest into sugar until the sugar is fragrant. Sift flour, baking powder and salt together and set aside. Whisk remaining ingredients together. Combine wet ingredients with sugar. Add dry ingredients and blend just until combined. Pour into prepared pan and bake for about 50 minutes until the loaf is golden brown and springs back when poked in the middle. Let cool 15 minutes then turn out of pan and cool completely. Optional glaze: melt marmalade and water in a small saucepan until melted. Pour over cake. Let dry for at least an hour. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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n DESIGN MONOGRAMS

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Preppy, Peppy and Personalized Using Monograms At Home

By J en B r es t e l

am a child of the 80s. That decade has shaped my musical taste, my love for sitcoms, and my decorating style. Alex P. Keaton from the TV show “Family Ties” would have been impressed with my prized possession in middle school: a kelly-green wool sweater embroidered with my initials in hot pink. I loved wearing it with my wooden handle purse with, you guessed it, a monogrammed cover. It was the height of the preppy movement, and monogramming was a popular way to personalize apparel. My love affair with placing initials on items had only just begun! Fast forward to today, and you see monograms everywhere—on beach towels, on children’s backpacks, on women’s jewelry, on cars, and on household items. Almost anything can be personalized, but it can be challenging to figure out what initials go where. A few rules will help you make choices that will brighten up the most ordinary objects, adding polish and sophistication to your home. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

The Last Name Goes Where? The Tr aditional Approach: Single last name initial in

a larger size, flanked by first and middle initials. This is often done in a script font for a more formal look. Allison (first) Thompson (maiden or middle) Williams (last) looks like:

JWP Singled-out: It is acceptable to use a single initial on

any item. If you choose this option, use the first letter of the last name. When picking this monogram style, take care to look at the font and the thread color carefully, as you will want the initial to make a statement. You may choose to add embellishment to the design for an extra touch of interest. Barnette could appear as:

•B•

Wedded bliss: Historically, a woman will change her

monogram to reflect her new surname if she takes her husband’s last name. This monogram should be used on all linens and other household items (lampshades, trays, pillows). The husband’s monogram should be used on barware items (glasses and flasks). If a single initial is used for monogramming, and the bride has taken the groom’s surname, it should always be the first initial of this shared surname. 34

Margaret and Robert Hawthorne would appear as:

Block party: If you choose a block style (which is often considered more masculine, often used for male monograms), the initials should all be in the same size font in a clean typeface, and listed in the same order as the name. John (first) William (middle) Pearson (last) would be printed as:

In more modern times, it is acceptable to use both the woman’s and the man’s name in the monogram. The acceptable format is to place the woman’s initial first, the last name in the middle noted by an oversized initial, and the man’s name on the right-hand side.

If the wife didn’t take her husband’s name, then an acceptable monogram style is to either use the first initial of both last names (use a block style), with the woman’s initial always placed on the left-hand side. If the couple has decided to hyphenate their last names, do not use the hyphen in the monogram. Another option is to use both full monograms separated by a symbol. Lucy Robertson Smith and Henry Arthur Jones could appear as:

in the single combined format or

SR • HJA

in the combined monogram

Special cases: If the last name is one such as O’Connell, McMahon or Van Noppen, only use the first letter of the last name (O, M, and V respectively). However, if it is a lower case letter (van Noppen), both can be used (VN). If you go by a double first name (Mary Anna), and have four full names, there is a choice to be made: four letters in block style, or drop the second name.

Example: For Mary Anna Stewart Burns

MASB

MSB

or are both acceptable

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Letters, Letters Everywhere!

When choosing what to monogram and which fonts and colors to use, consider your own personality as well as your home’s décor and style. Are you traditional or modern? Do you favor floral or geometric patterns? Do you like neutral or bright colors? Are you looking for a statement piece, or for something to subtly add elegance to a room? These answers will help you choose from the abundance of monogramming options. If you still find it hard to choose, take a more contemporary approach and mix two fonts and colors. With monogramming these days, anything goes—you just need to be happy with the look of the final product, and make certain that you see a final proof before any monogramming is done. Also keep in mind that certain letters look different than expected when placed on their own, or when printed in script versus block fonts (think capital I, J, G). Take this into account when making your font selection. Give the Ultimate Personal Gift

Fall is a great time to think about monogramming items around your home. Spruce up your décor for upcoming holiday entertaining or give super-personalized gifts with monogrammed items. Start shopping and monogramming now, and you’ll be right on time for the holidays. Here are some items on which to place your mark: F or the elegant home: dining chair slipcovers,

soaps, letter topiary made of ivy, armoires, headboards, linens F or a child: wall stencils, backpacks, lunch boxes, umbrellas, pencil pouches F or the newborn: Baby blankets, bibs, burp cloths, shirts, diaper covers, sippy cups, hats, bags, cribs F or you: tissue box covers, trash cans, cutting boards, lampshades, pillows, soap dispensers, planters F or your sassy friends: mousepads, trays, plates, cosmetic bags, travel coffee mugs, jewelry F or him: shirts, flasks, ice buckets, cuff links, wine stoppers F or a wedding gift: towels (hand, bath, kitchen), table linens (napkins, tablecloths, placemats), frames F or the gr aduate: laundry bags, stationery, mirrors, decorative letters to hang, robes Using monograms in your home can be a great way to add personal touches that reflect your self and style. Be creative, add embellishment, and use whimsical patterns and fonts. Just be sure you don’t overuse this technique—a little bit goes a long way in adding this personal touch to your home.

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

A HOME IN IVY with a storied past

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SCAN THIS PAGE TO SEE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF THIS HOME

BY L au r e l F ei n m a n P h ot o g r a p hy by Ro b e r t Ra d i fe r a

Stephanie and Richard Snell’s home is full of surprises. Stephanie and Richard live in a former train depot, moved to Ivy from Midlothian sometime in the mid-1930s for reasons unknown. Stephanie says, “It’s actually fitting that we live in a place that has a second life. It’s a second marriage for both of us and we’ve built our life as a couple here.” Richard and Stephanie, with the help of builder Peter Johnson, began the 18-month-long renovation in 2007, finishing just in time to host an at-home wedding for one of their daughters. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

There’s a bluestone path leading to the long, low rectangular clapboard house. It sits atop a sturdy-looking stone foundation and chimneys flank both ends. The generous windows across its front are as big as the front door itself. “We wanted to maintain the integrity of the place and keep as much of its original character as possible,” Stephanie says. The front porch is welcoming, with a boxy overhang supported by pine columns and a platform that extends far to the right—visible hints of the home’s history as a trackside building. Now, that platform leads to a guesthouse and twocar garage instead of trains bound for faraway places. Once you’ve been told about the home’s past, it’s fun to look for clues. The zinc table and iron sconces in the foyer look like they could have been original fixtures in the train depot, but the sconces were actually bought locally at Roxie Daisy and the table came from Marston Luce in Washington, DC. 38

Stephanie has a natural eye for design and says their home is a constantly evolving work in progress. “We have so much fun collecting things for our home. We’ll see something that we like and can always find a spot for it.” To make the building more compatible with home life, Johnson opened up a couple of walls, helping to redirect and improve the room-to-room flow. Stephanie says, “All the original doorways were only 6 feet tall. The new ones are quite a bit taller. Our neutral paint palette helps downplay the differences in their heights.” The original floors throughout the house had taken a beating over the years and couldn’t be sanded down and refinished another time, so Richard and Stephanie replaced them with the “skins” from 100-year-old pine beams. Stephanie explains, “Jim Morgan of Antique Building Products in Amherst found these enormous beams and milled them by hand to use as our flooring. He basically

shaved the beams and turned them into planks.” The Living Room

The décor in the living room, like the rest of the house, is eclectic and has a sense of whimsy. Stephanie likes antiques, especially if there’s something unique about them. The long-legged rustic huntboard in the living room is her oldest piece. Taller huntboards, like hers, are rare finds. She explains, “Huntboards were kept on back porches across the south and were the place where mud-spattered horsemen leaned and talked over the day’s sport or dressed their game. People would simply cut the legs down if there was any wood rot.” The artwork in the living room is colorful and vibrant. A wall-sized abstract painting of horse heads by Russ Warren hangs over a sofa. Stephanie says, “The more you look, the more horses you see.” Across the room is a painting whose C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

“The more you look, the more horses you see.” —Stephanie Snell

c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

prominent subject is a golden retriever. Stephanie says that this was the first piece of art that she and Richard bought together. An old sign reading “Panama Hat Bleachery” is propped on the mantel over the fireplace. Stephanie says its backside is faded, an indication of which side faced the sun when it was swinging over a storefront and advertising its wares. Of all the beautiful and interesting things in the living room, it’s hard not to notice the larger-than-life bust of George Washington holding court in front of a row of windows. It was one of Richard’s first gifts to Stephanie and she confides, “George has been known to wear Santa hats at Christmas and bandanas during cookouts.” George isn’t the only presidential influence in the room. Stephanie points at antlers displayed on the wall and says her daughter, after a fourth-grade field trip to Monticello, insisted they hang them the exact same way that Thomas Jefferson had. The Dining Room

Through a doorway at the back of the room is the dining room. Stephanie says this room features its original wall paneling, baseboards and cornices. Artwork on the painted red walls is by John Borden Evans of North Garden. The chairs had been her mother’s and are still upholstered in their original gold velvet. An authentic shed-antler chandelier hangs overhead, another treasure Stephanie and Richard found together. The Kitchen

You can exit the dining room either to the foyer or into the kitchen. The kitchen is stocked with floor-to-ceiling beadboard cabinets and shiny nickel hardware. Stephanie says their cabinet builder Bill Marks was once a boat builder on Nantucket Island and she attributes this to his skill in cabinet making. The black marble-like countertops are made of Alberene Soapstone, quarried right here in Albemarle County. Stephanie says, “We tried to use locally-sourced materials whenever possible.” In the center of the kitchen is an oversized pewter-topped island on metal casters that can be rolled around and parked elsewhere, if need be. In its usual spot, the island conceals electrical outlets in the floor. All of the appliances are from Ferguson and interject a bit of 4 0

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c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

an industrial look to the kitchen’s New England farmhouse-style décor. The wall above the sink has new windows, sized to match the windows on the rest of the house and featuring a simple, contemporary roller-shade window treatment. Stephanie says the other windows in the house have minimal or no window treatments because they enjoy having as much natural light streaming into the home as possible, and feel secluded enough on their fourand-a-half acre property for the windows to be bare. The kitchen opens into the foyer near a stairwell surrounded by a combination of wood posts and glass panels that leads to the basement. Stephanie explains, “I wanted to avoid adding more wood to the foyer, fearing it would make it feel dark, so we used glass panels around the stairs instead.” On the landing where the stairs turn is a huge newel post the Snells found at Caravati’s, an architectural salvage supplier in Richmond. They had the other posts on the stairs milled to mimic it. A tiny powder room with walls painted in chartreuse is at the far end of the foyer. Stephanie says that a painter from out of town, looking for a few small projects,

SUMMER WAREHOUSE SALE Including Remnants

Photo by Tommie Milacci

SPECTRUM STONE DESIGNS Locally Owned in Lynchburg

434.993.0888 42

www.spectrumstonedesigns.com C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

was visiting a friend and knew she was working on the house. He said his work would be artistic and unlike ordinary paint jobs. So, Stephanie gave him free reign and hired him to paint both the powder room and the dining room. If you look closely, you’ll see tiny shards of glass embedded in the paint along with a textured pattern and touches of metallic shimmer. Steve Taylor, a well-known local artist, painted the artwork that hangs in the foyer as well as the piece you can glimpse through the open master bedroom door. The Master Suite

When the Snells reconfigured the bedroom wing of the house, they borrowed space from a former guest bedroom and bath to create a new master suite. The outer chamber to the suite has a circular skylight called an oculus, with an octagonal rooftop over it resembling a cupola. Stephanie recalls the day that Peter Johnson said the plans for the cupola had to be finalized. “It was pouring rain and Peter was standing on the roof holding a patio umbrella, lifting and lowering it so I could decide how tall the cupola should be. That patio umbrella made the perfect template for it.” To the right of the oculus is the master bedroom and to the left is the master bathroom. Stephanie says they intentionally kept all the space-dividing walls in the bathroom from reaching to the ceiling because they wanted the space to be open and flooded with light. The sparkling grey countertops are made of a stone quarried near Dillwyn called Virginia Kyanite. It is known for its ability to hold up well to heat—an important quality to have if it ever accidentally meets with heated hair-styling appliances. There is a spacious walk-in curbless shower and his-and-hers closets that are outfitted with multiple tiers of hanging rods to maximize their storage. Stephanie says that Antique Building Products salvaged the bathroom floors from a 100-year-old pier being torn down in Savannah. She says, “These old cypress floors can definitely handle wet feet that are fresh out of the shower.” Outside

In fact, Antique Building Products found most of the reclaimed wood that is used throughout their home, like the columns by the front door and the cypress flooring used on their new covered porch. Stephanie says the porch baked in the sun so that they never sat outside, until Johnson suggested putting a rooftop overhead. “It has made all the difference! We are out here all the time. We feel like we’ve gained a whole other room,” Stephanie says. The Snells didn’t want to install railings around the porch and block their view, but the porch is elevated nearly an entire story above ground level, so safety was a concern. Their solution was to build raised flowerbeds with wide rims around them, which also serve as extra seating when they’re entertaining outdoors. Steps from the porch lead to the backyard, where the full scale of the home’s substantial stone foundation can be appreciated. Under the covered porch is a pair of barn doors hiding a storage area for the lawn equipment. There are two entrances to the basement’s recreation rooms, where Stephanie and Richard lived during the renovation, and both lead to stone patios surrounded by short walls. Bill Fields of Broken Gate Workshop made all of these doors by hand, using reclaimed wood from commercial rain barrels. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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Steps from the porch lead to the backyard, where the full scale of the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s substantial stone foundation can be appreciated. Under the covered porch is a pair of barn doors hiding a storage area for the lawn equipment. There are two entrances to the basementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recreation rooms, where Stephanie and Richard lived during the renovation, and both lead to stone patios surrounded by short walls. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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The Guest Cottage

The covered porch is a breezeway between the house and the new guest cottage. Stephanie says, “Most people don’t realize that there’s a two-car garage underneath the guest cottage. We used our sloping lot to our advantage and fulfilled two needs.” The Snells’ children are now married and Stephanie says they vie for the cottage when they come for visits. The cottage has a simply appointed bedroom behind a pocket door and a common room. The floors are lightly stained oak and there’s a large television, comfortable seating area and a bar in the corner topped with mahogany that used to be on a bridge in Brazil. Stephanie says, “Bill broke three saws trying to cut it. It’s indestructible—perfect for a guest house.” Next to the bar is an antique game table that has small cubbies under its tabletop next to the legs, where card players can stow their drinks, to keep the tabletop clutter- and interference-free. The windows over the seating area are positioned high up on the wall, letting in plenty of light while preserving privacy. Stephanie says that she and Richard like

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to come out to the cottage to watch television because it is so comfortable. “Anyone who has ever lived in an old home knows that even a renovated old house isn’t insulated very well and they can be very drafty and cold in the winter. This is our little hideaway.” The only bathtub on the property is in the guest cottage— installed with visits from future grandchildren in mind. The paneled bathroom walls are arranged in a floor-to-ceiling patchwork pattern, where some boards run horizontally and others run vertically. “I saw a picture like it in a magazine and showed Peter. Poor Peter, I think he was tired of my pictures and me. We were near the end of the project and he said he would only do it if it measured out perfectly...and it did!” As Stephanie reflects on her home, she says, “It’s the little things that make it come together and make it our own.” The task of turning an old train depot into a family home required wit, vision and patience—things the Snells clearly have. From their choices in artwork and décor to the thoughtful construction details within, this project is one that could make anybody want to get on board.

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n GARDEN CONTAINER SAVVY

PERFECT PLANTERS A MIDSUMMER REFRESH

BY M er i d i t h I n g r a m

In the dog days of summer, a container garden is perhaps the most forgiving of gardens. Easier to maintain than a landscaped bed, less dependent upon the weather (you can be its rain source), and not as likely to be eaten by critters, a container garden is the perfect way to showcase summer’s ongoing bounty. And now is the perfect time to pay renewed attention to your planters: the deer have had their fun in your perennial garden, you’re focused on protecting your tomatoes, perhaps you’re even ready to toss that prearranged container garden you bought at the grocery store moments before your Memorial Day cookout. Before you embark on this midsummer pick-me-up, take a moment to assess the containers themselves, if you have amassed a collection. Culling the old—those that are cracked or faded—and bringing in some new may be just the thing to put some spring back into your step. Before you check out the wares at your favorite garden center, it’s helpful to think about which pots will work best in your outdoor space.

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c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Size and Scale

Before buying new or replacing old containers, consider first where you will place them. While the front entrance of a traditional Colonial might look great with matching Classical urns flanking the door, here more than anywhere else scale and proportion are arguably even more important than style. Remember that front entrance containers are admired from afar by passersby, and by you and your guests as you come and go. So make sure these containers are big enough to stand up to this task, and small enough that they don’t overpower the walkway or stoop. Decks, patios, driveways, walkways, even a bare patch in your yard or border garden are all good places for container gardens. Whatever spot you’re looking to refresh, keep in mind that these containers will need to be watered by hand, so don’t orient them too far from a water source or collect too many that watering them becomes a chore. The material you choose depends upon your personal aesthetic as well as your gardening style and work habits. Simple symmetry or eclectic collection? Modern or traditional? Are you likely to water faithfully, or do you water only when you notice plants drooping? Do you like to move your pots around to various spots depending upon the occasion, or are you one-anddone—plant early and leave it until autumn? Think about these questions before you consider which containers to buy. The Heavy-Hitters

The old faithful terra cotta pot is a reliable choice for its low cost and the blank canvas it provides. While unglazed terra cotta develops a lovely patina over time, its distinctive color can clash with traditional red bricks or other strong color elements around 52

your home. It’s also highly porous, which means water can do a number on it. If you tend to leave your planters out yearround, terra cotta is not your best choice, since water freezing and thawing can cause cracks. You’ll also need to water plants in unglazed terra cotta frequently since water will evaporate quickly. The bright side? Your plants are unlikely to suffer from waterlogged roots. Many such containers are sold with saucers to catch overflowing water and provide reabsorption; resist using these saucers as they are breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Glazed clay or ceramic pots work well for gardeners who like the heft of terra cotta but want something with a little more style that requires less maintenance. The colors and patterns of ceramic containers are as dazzling as the flowers you’ll plant in them. While these planters retain more water, dark-colored glazed pots will also retain more heat and could damage plant roots in extremely high temperatures. Wooden planters fit the bill in places where you want big bang for the buck (think whiskey barrel planter). Wooden planters are porous as well and will need frequent watering, and will also be susceptible to water damage over time. Line wooden planters with plastic to stave off some of this damage. Cedar, redwood and teak are the most water damage-resistant; treated wood lasts longer than untreated wood, but you won’t want to plant any edibles in a treated wood container since ingesting the chemicals may be harmful. Concrete and stone planters can make a bold statement and provide a neutral background for your garden. Think of these containers as permanent fixtures; they’ll work great for container gardens that don’t need to be moved to accommodate sun, watering or the changing seasons. They are also great for spaces where an over-exuberant pet could topple lightweight containers. C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

Lightweight, But Not Light On Style

Easy to use and easy to move, synthetics like plastic and its upscale cousins, resin and fiberglass, are great options for lightweight but pretty containers that can mimic the look of just about “faux” anything—stone, wood, metal and ceramic. Since they aren’t porous, they won’t lose moisture as quickly as unglazed pottery. But because they don’t lose moisture, it is especially important that they drain sufficiently, so plant roots don’t become waterlogged. Synthetics tend to resist weather damage, and because they are so lightweight, they are easy to haul in and out of the shed each season. Keep in mind, though, that tall, narrow syntheticmaterial pots, heaped full with plants, will be top-heavy and could tip over easily during big summer storms.

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Playing with Placement

When grouping different containers in a space, aim to include some unifying element. You might use all gray containers in one area, but made of different materials—or go with all bright blue ceramic pots but in an array of sizes (and perhaps a small blue-and-white patterned pot on the outdoor table to accent the look). Or if you have many different kinds of containers that you adore on your deck, stick to quieter flower arrangements, repeating the same arrangement in each pot. Keep in mind that vividly colored glazed ceramics draw attention to themselves, while neutral grays and browns fade into the background and place more attention on the flowers. Armed with this information, you can choose the right container to suit your garden style. With the right containers in place, you can focus on creating arrangements to punctuate your outdoor space with bursts of color and creativity. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Call 434.974.6928

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n LIVE SHOP LOCAL

TO MARKET, TO MARKET

A Field Guide to Charlottesville’s Farmers Markets BY C a r r i e Wall er

For those enjoying a summer filled with barbecues, garden parties and Sunday brunches, our community is packed with local vendors of the freshest ingredients for your delectable meals. What better way to gather the best fixings our region has to offer than to visit new and old farmers and artisan-run markets? Here, you’ll find all the information you need to visit several local markets, each boasting a little something unique—from micro greens and local produce to meats and handmade cheese. There’s no better way to support and enjoy the best of “home” than at market.

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What: Forest Lake Farmers Market Where: 1650 Ashwood Boulevard, Charlottesville When: Season runs from April to October; Tuesdays, 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

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Offerings: Arts and crafts, regional seafood, fruits and veggies, honey, poultry, fresh

and dried herbs, beef and pork, jams and jellies, farm-fresh eggs, butter, local wine, breads, sweet treats, locally-made cheese, artisan herbal teas, naturally-fermented foods and beverages, baking mixes and more More Information: Dawn Story (540) 718-3200 or find Forest Lake Farmers Market on Facebook What: Farmers in the Park at Meade Park Where: 300 Meade Avenue, Charlottesville When: Season runs from May to September; Wednesdays, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Offerings: Baked goods, farm-fresh vegetables, fruit, plants and much more More Information: (434) 970-3371 What: Charlottesville City Market Where: 207 1st Street South, Charlottesville When: Season runs from April to December; Saturdays:

7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Sundays: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

$ 4 4 Fre n c h M a r ket b a g Rox i e D a is y

Offerings: Canned goods, cheese, locally-grown fruits and veggies, salsa, soap,

sweets, eggs, fresh-roasted coffee, organic bagels, flowers, crafts, jellies, pesto, micro greens, herbs, artisan breads, granola, pies, scones and more More Information: citymarket@charlottesville.org or (434) 970-3371 What: Crozet Farmers Market Where: Across from 1156 Crozet Avenue, Crozet

(at Tabor Presbyterian Church) When: Season runs from May to October; Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Offerings: Locally-grown vegetables, bedding plants, vegetable starts, cut flowers,

homemade baked goods, handcrafted jewelry, woodcrafts and pottery, plus access to the Horticulture Help Desk, staffed by volunteer Piedmont Master Gardeners on the second and fourth Saturdays during the season. Staffers can answer questions about horticultural practices, pest control and plant diseases. More Information: Al Minutolo (434) 823-1092

$ 3 9 S m a ll $ 7 9 L a rg e B a gs by S e e D e si gn C a sp a r i

What:“The Shed” at Henley’s Orchard Where: Holly Hill Farm, Crozet; Route 810/White Hall Road (between the

towns of Crozet and White Hall) When: Season runs from July 1 to October 31; Monday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Sundays: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Offerings: Fresh peaches, apples, homemade preserves, ice cream, apple cider and doughnuts More Information: (434) 823-2560 What: Nelson Farmers Market Where: 3079 Rockfish Valley Hwy (Route 151), Nellysford When: Season runs from April to October;

Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (rain or shine) Offerings: Bedding plants, jams and jellies, arts and crafts, culinary treats, herbs,

honey, local meat, baked goods, flowers, vinegars and more More Information: Bo Holland at nelsonfarmersmarketmanager@gmail.com or (434) 244-2399 c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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n IMPROVE GENERATORS

C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

Home Generators Power Up When the Power’s Out

By Ch u ck Hag er t y

“It was a dark and stormy night. Marsha stumbled through the inky blackness of her living room as a driving rain pelted the windows...” Sounds like the beginning of a scary novel, doesn’t it? But really it’s just the beginning of a dark, cold night for Marsha and her entire neighborhood, because a storm has just knocked power out to a large portion of their county. I’ve always wanted to use that opening line somewhere, and for this article on home generators, it seemed like a perfect fit. Because even though Marsha is probably not in danger of being targeted by a burglar, the next few days could be a bit stressful for her and her neighbors. It really doesn’t matter what month of the year it is; power outages can occur at any time. Heavy rains, snow or ice, high winds, summer heat and excessive power loads, an errant driver, a lightning storm, or even a squirrel touching the wrong part of a transformer can all lead to power loss. When these types of electrical outages happen, it’s usually the duration of the power outage that determines whether it’s a minor inconvenience or a devastating situation. While we can’t control any of this, we can at least think ahead and try to be prepared. Consider these scenarios: What if someone in your home has a medical condition and is dependent on a device that requires electricity? What if you work from home, and need electricity to run your business? What if that waterproofing system you installed to keep your basement dry during heavy storms requires electricity to function? Any prolonged outage could have serious implications. Who can forget the long-term power outage we experienced after the infamous "derecho" wind storm a couple of years ago? My home was without power for four days. Unless your plan is to give away or toss all the food in the refrigerator and freezer, lock the doors, and go stay with friends or relatives, you need a generator. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

When considering a home generator, you basically have three choices: a portable generator and a few extension cords; a portable generator that is connected to your home’s main electric panel; or a standby generator that is connected to your home’s main electric panel. The portable generator and extension cord solution is obviously the easiest and least expensive choice. A small- to medium-sized portable generator will put out between 1,000 to 5,000 watts, and will cost around $400 to $800. With this setup, you will be able to run most of the electrical items in your home that are plugged into a typical wall outlet. This would include your refrigerator, freezer, cell phone charger, microwave, computer, fan, small air-conditioning window unit, coffee maker, and the like. You won’t be able to run everything at once, but if the weather is not extremely hot or cold, and if you happen to like camping, you might be just fine for a few days. Your next choice would be to purchase a larger portable generator, usually between 6,000 to 10,000 watts, and temporarily connect it to the home’s main electric panel. This is where a very dangerous mistake is often made, because if you don’t connect the generator to the electric panel properly, you can “back feed” electricity into the main service cable that comes into your home. This “back feeding” of electricity could hurt or even kill a technician working on the downed power lines. For this reason, you must bring the electricity from the generator into your home through what is called a “manual transfer switch,” which prevents the possibility of back feeding electricity. The cost of this type of larger portable generator will be around $1,000 to $1,600. The manual transfer switch is around $300 to $400, and unless you are an electrician, you will need to pay someone to install this switch at a labor cost of around $200. The electrician will also have to get a permit for this installation. Now you’ll be able to run such things as the water heater, the well pump, a heat pump and lights, and the other plug-in essentials like coffee pots and refrigerators. Again, you won’t be able to run everything at once, but life will be a bit closer to normal. The last choice is to go all-out and have an electrician install what is called a “standby” generator. This beauty is 5 8

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connected permanently to the main electric panel of the home through an “automatic transfer switch.” As soon as you lose power to your house, the generator will automatically come on and the switch will automatically be made from power company electricity to generator electricity. A small standby generator will provide around 6,000 watts of electricity and cost between $3,000 and $4,000 for both parts and installation. You won’t be able to run the furnace or the whole-house air conditioner with only 6,000 watts, but your power will be available whether you are home or not. If there are things in your home that must stay on, then this could be an affordable solution. A medium-sized standby generator will provide around 16,000 watts and cost between $5,000 and $6,000. It will also come on automatically and is large enough to simultaneously run a furnace or the whole-house air conditioner along with a few other high electrical consumption items such as the water heater, well pump and refrigerator. A large standby generator will provide around 40,000 watts, cost between $14,000 and $16,000, and should be able to operate almost everything in your house. Most portable generators run on gasoline or diesel fuel, and you can get standby generators that also run on either gas or diesel. However, with a standby generator your best bet is to get one that runs on either propane or natural gas. That way you can safely store a lot more fuel and you won’t have to worry about the fuel going bad from sitting too long. With a few Google searches, a little bit of preplanning and a back-up generator, Marsha will be better prepared to weather that next “dark and stormy night.” Andersen® 400 Series products are available in a range of replacement styles with options and accessories to complement any home. Plus they offer energy savings and long-lasting beauty. All this with virtually no maintenance. It’s no wonder Andersen windows and doors are the most trusted among remodelers.

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CONSERVATION PRESERVATION COMMUNITIES Landowners working together to protect the future BY L au r e l F ei n m a n

One of the most notable hallmarks of our region is its hundreds of thousands of acres of scenic views, natural resources and wildlife—a living legacy that Virginians work together to protect for future generations. One way that we’ve figured out how to live among and protect our state’s natural splendor is through the creation of “conservation preservation communities,” which are limiteddevelopment residential neighborhoods set in some of our state’s most beautiful natural areas. “Conservation” is the scientific involvement of sustaining, maintaining and improving an ecosystem, usually focusing efforts on large blocks of native forests, streams, watersheds and wetlands. “Preservation” refers to protecting such places from harm and often includes making land legally unavailable for commercial development and large, population-dense neighborhood subdivisions. Conservationists and preservationists, though their methods may differ, share the same end goal: protecting our natural resources and wildlife. For certain groups of eco-savvy landowners in Virginia, true luxury means having access to large swaths of pristine land as close to its natural state as possible. This land can be forest, agricultural land, pasture land or any other type of scenic area that needs protection from high-impact development. By teaming together in a limited home-site residential neighborhood, these like-minded folk form a conservation preservation community and share the common commitment of protecting large parcels of land from ecological harm. Conservation preservation communities often offer sporting life amenities like horseback riding and hunting clubs amid sublime scenery. The result is a sort of conservation-oriented sporting resort owned by a limited number of families. Homeowner associations usually employ full-time land managers and specialists who tend to the health of the land and its inhabitants. How do they do it? Conservation preservation communities register restrictive covenants to the titleholders of the land. A covenant is a legal contract used to protect the integrity of the land and its natural resources. It also ensures that any development upon the land improves (or at the very least does not diminish) the existing ecological system. Because the design of a conservation preservation community is focused on maintaining and enhancing the natural integrity of the land, homeowners build upon the least ecologicallysensitive parts of the land, while the rest of the property is protected by a conservation easement, meaning that the area is permanently protected from any future development. About 90 percent of the land in conservation preservation communities is protected by easements and the remaining 10 percent is developed with home sites. A conservation easement is a legally binding voluntary agreement that permanently removes a landowner’s development rights in exchange for tax benefits. The landowner retains all the other rights of private land ownership such as the right to sell the property or leave it to heirs. Land covered by a conservation easement is still privately held and therefore does not have to permit public access. Central Virginia is home to two remarkable conservation preservation communities, each protecting the land in different ways and for different uses. Bundoran Farm, located in southern Albemarle County, protects its farmland and forests through agriculture-based land conservation easements. The Homestead Preserve, located in Bath and Highland Counties, uses natural resource easements to protect its land and watersheds. c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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Bundoran Farm

Bundoran Farm, located only a few minutes from downtown Charlottesville, is a 2300-acre working farm nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is nearly one-third the size of Charlottesville itself. Here there are forests, farmland, grazing pastures, spring-fed streams, ponds and an extensive trail system winding throughout the property. Bundoran Farm’s conservation preservation community is based upon “interlocking” agricultural easements, which means that each individually-owned property includes portions of farmland or forest that together provide large contiguous areas for farming, grazing and forestry. Bundoran Farm real estate sales manager Josh Woodson says, “In return for allowing these easements on their property, homeowners can enjoy recreational use on the entire farm and a neighborly coexistence among family, farming, forestry and wildlife.” The thriving landscape features apple orchards in full bloom, grazing cattle, vineyards and horses—lots of horses. Many are owned by the residents of the community or the farmers, but some—grazing right outside the community center—are rescue horses cared for by the community association’s preservation trust, The Baldwin Center. The Baldwin Center is a gathering place for community meetings, symposiums and workshops, and is the home base for agricultural research projects, environmental education and outreach. Woodson, who grew up near Bundoran Farm, says that the residents of Bundoran Farm are physically active nature-lovers and good stewards of the land. “We have community members who are Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists. They share their expertise with other members of the community. Everyone volunteers to help maintain the trail system. At any given time, you’ll find people hiking, fishing, riding horses and enjoying the outdoors,” he says. Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyard is a part of Bundoran Farm and is an example of an agricultural conservation easement in action— and it provides one of the farm’s best amenities (homeowners can reach its tasting room by way of the community’s trail system). In fact, some of Bundoran Farm’s most famous residents are the Gryffon’s Aerie cattle munching on the grasses of the farm. “We help support a field-to-table system of organic grass-fed beef grown right here on the farm. Gryffon’s Aerie beef is distributed locally to restaurants around Charlottesville and Central Virginia,” says Woodson. From the roads winding through Bundoran Farm, houses are tucked neatly into the landscape and almost go by unnoticed from the road. This is intentional and helps maintain the beauty of the agrarian landscape. Bundoran Farm’s design studio workshop helps homeowners select the best location for their homes, working to maximize their views and privacy and minimize disturbance to the land and its views. The design studio advises homeowners on architectural styles that fit the style of the region and even provides them with a pattern book from which they can choose their home’s design. Homes are also designed with an eye toward green, sustainable living. Woodson explains, “We are a sustainable community. Some residents install solar panels or use rain barrels on their property. Others have organic gardens and some want to start raising their own chickens. All of us find ways to contribute to preserving and enhancing the landscape of our community.” c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Homestead Preserve

In the midst of a 23-million-acre forest that reaches through parts of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania is the Homestead Preserve—a conservation-based resort community in Bath County. The development includes the historic villages of Hot Springs and Warm Springs and completely envelops the OMNI Homestead Resort, acclaimed to be the birthplace of golf in America. Cynthia Rudnick, real estate sales associate for the Homestead Preserve says, “The people who love this area are taken with the natural beauty and magic of the mountains and the springs. They want to protect, preserve and pass it on to the next generation.” The Homestead Preserve is situated on land that was once a part of a vast land tract under the ownership of The Virginia Hot Springs Company, formed in 1892 by J. Pierpont Morgan as part of an effort to preserve the mountain forest, wildlife, springs and streams and serve as a buffer between development to the east and the relative isolation of The Homestead. Rudnick explains that The Homestead Preserve sold 9,250 acres of their original 11,500 acres to The Nature Conservancy. They then placed an additional 935 acres into permanent 64

conservation easements with the Virginia Outdoors Foundation. Together, these actions ensure that no more than 325 acres (less than 3 percent of its original 11,500 acres) will ever be affected by development. The Homestead Preserve is a sportsman’s paradise of golf, hiking, fly-fishing, shooting sports and botany. So, while the Preserve has had a positive effect on the land, it also has a positive economic impact on the surrounding villages, thanks to a healthy number of visitors it brings to the region each year. Even still, Rudnick reassures that the Homestead Preserve, thanks to its limited development restrictions, will never become overrun by a large influx of tourism. “We are only a few hours away from some of the largest cities along the eastern corridor. It is extremely peaceful here, we don’t even have a stoplight—and most likely we’ll never need one.” In addition to natural pursuits like fishing and hiking, Rudnick says that homeowners in the preserve community can buy golf, tennis and social memberships to the Homestead, use the facilities, and take part in the activities available at the resort, similar to how you would use a country club membership. The Homestead Preserve combines a commitment to natural preservation and local history through its preservation trust. C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

This trust, funded with a portion of each home sale, is a not-forprofit agency that provides community grants for educational programs, preservation of historic structures, and a variety of conservation research and management efforts. “We have a unique commitment to the natural heritage of Bath County. Our mission is to design, develop and manage properties that make the community a better place to live, work, play and shop,” Rudnick says. She adds, “We restored the Old Dairy in Warm Springs, the county seat of Bath County. It’s a community landmark that once served all the dairy needs and beef provisions for the hotel. It now serves as our community center, gathering place and main recreation area for our community.” Warm Springs is home to the Jefferson Pools, all-natural mineral springs that were the original draw to the area. For hundreds of years, visitors have come to “take the waters” and enjoy their natural mineral-rich therapeutic effects. Nowadays, musicians, artists, antiques collectors and sellers are turning Warm Springs into a bit of an art colony. Home styles in the community are consistent with the architecture found in historic homes in the area. “The Homestead Preserve is dedicated to replicating the historic architectural c h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

vernacular of the western highlands of Virginia,” says Rudnick. Other thoughtful design details of the development include burying the utilities and fiber optic networks, keeping sight lines free from obtrusive electrical poles and overhead wires. The Homestead has always been known as a gathering place for families, where it’s not uncommon to see a large table of 20 family members (or more!) of multiple generations dining together in the main dining room at any given meal. The Homestead Preserve nurtures this tradition as well. Rudnick says, “The Homestead Preserve fosters that—each generation passing its knowledge and traditions to the next. The preserve is a meaningful way to protect the vitality of these mountains as well as the heritage of the Homestead resort and the authenticity of the historic villages.” There are all sorts of ways to be good stewards of the land, both from a natural standpoint and an economic one. Creating partnerships with others who value the land is perhaps the best, because collaboration can be far more effective than working as a lone conservation cowboy. The stakeholders in conservation preservation communities are modern-day trailblazers, taking the heritage of the land into the future and hoping to leave it better than they found it. 65

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New Design Center Helps Homeowners One of the most enjoyable and exciting parts of building a new home is the opportunity to express yourself through design choices and décor. Most homeowners already have great ideas, but a designer can help them pull all the pieces together. The new Southern Development Homes Design Center is the place where clients can enlist the expertise of designers to create a design game plan for their new home. “Every one of our clients enters the new construction process with unique tastes and priorities,” said Chris Winn, Vice President of Construction for Southern Development Homes. “Our new Design Center enables our homebuyers to partner with our design experts to make informed decisions and ultimately personalize their home.” Southern Development Homes has built more than 500 homes in Central Virginia since it opened its doors in 1999. Today, it is the largest local homebuilder in our area. Southern Development Homes Design Center Tours by appointment only, 434.328.2268 www.southern-development.com

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Airflow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Allied Concrete Co.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Altenergy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Artisan Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Atlantic Organic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Better Living. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Blue Ridge Building Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Brown Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Carpet Plus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Century Link. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Charlottesville Women’s Four Miler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Circa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Clearview Window Tinting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

arle Square

Celebrating our 21st Season of Fabulousness!

2014 Women’s Four Miler Training Program Beginning on Saturday, June 14th, 11 consecutive Saturdays of group training, expert speakers on women’s health topics & prizes! You may attend any or all sessions. Walkers, woggers, joggers and runners of any level are welcome. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Questions? Pam@W4MTP.com Cost:

$20 Registration Fee - $15 CTC Members Mother/daughter teams (training together, girls age 14 & younger) $30 per team (1 woman/1 girl/1 training manual), additional girls (under 14, all training together), $10 each.

Registration: * Online at www.W4MTP.com * In person at ACAC Albemarle Square: June 12 & 13, 11am-1pm and 5pm-7pm * On-site beginning at 6:15am before each Saturday program

www.w4mtp.com P MT W4

When: Saturdays beginning June 14th, 7:00 am (On-site Registration begins at 6:15 am) Where: UVA Track (Lannigan Field, across from U-Hall) Parking is plentiful & free.

David Duncan Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Denise Ramey, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Ferguson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Grand Home Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 La Linea Bella!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Mona Lisa Pasta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Nadine Blakely, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Scott Weiss Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Snow’s Garden Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Southern Grace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Spectrum Stone Designs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Stanley Martin Homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 The Brothers that just do Gutters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The Little Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 University of Virginia Community Credit Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Waynesboro Nurseries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 W. Douglas Gilpin Jr. FAIA, Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

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C h a r l o t t e s v i l l e h o m e J u l y /A u g u s t 2 0 1 4

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MHBR #3588 | *Prices, incentives, and availability are subject to change without notice. Certain restrictions apply. Options and incentives do not apply to all communities, lots, and house types. Up to $30,000 in included features: Included upgrades available for a limited time only and may vary by community, house type and home site. Please see a Neighborhood Sales Manager for details.