Central Virginia HOME Magazine 2023 Apr/May

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By the time you hold this issue of HOME magazine in your hands, I expect spring will be in full bloom. I remember going into Virginia Baptist Hospital on April 3, and being in labor, not really noticing a lot of flora or fauna along the way. But when I came home with my daughter two days later, it seemed like all of Lynchburg was blooming! I still tell my daughter — 17 years later — that the dogwoods and azaleas always come out to celebrate her birthday.

I still love that moment each spring when I look around and it seems like the whole earth is reawakening. The red buds create a haze of purple along the back roads and tulips begin to pop up in a spectacular range of colors. It’s the perfect time to make the most of the mild weather and sun-kissed days. One of the annual traditions we highlight in this issue is Virginia’s Historic Garden Week. We’ve got all the details on the five private homes on the tour, along with some fun garden-related activities at Camp Kum-Ba-Yah.

This issue also showcases a classic Lynchburg home designed by well-known architect Stanhope Spencer Johnson (1881–1973) and renowned garden architect Charles F. Gillette. This one-of-a-kind jewel has been in the midst of an enormous garden renovation, and we immensely appreciate the Zippels sharing their progress with us.

If you’re ready for some home renovations of your own, we’ve got plenty of inspiration in this issue, especially if your kitchen needs a facelift. We offer you tips from the pros about what’s trending and what is timeless. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen renovation, new countertops, a new refrigerator or just new cabinet hardware, you’ll find tips and wisdom for all of these topics. We even have all the chore hacks you need to get your spring cleaning done without pain and suffering.

Beyond the kitchen, we also have plenty of springthemed joie de vivre! In the garden, we’re looking at ways to enhance our outdoor living — water features, statuary and more. If you’d like to attract some pollinators in the months to come, you’ll find a list of some of the best annuals and perennials to plant this season. We also have some easy and fun recipes for hosting a brunch full of spring flavors.

The best thing about spring is its beauty and light. The worst thing is it is so fleeting. As Robert Frost once wrote in “Nothing Gold Can Stay”:

Nature’s first green is gold, Her hardest hue to hold.

Her early leaf’s a flower; But only so an hour.

So don’t delay to make the most of this wonderful time of year. Pick some strawberries, plant some tomatoes, and enjoy all this season has to offer!

Donna Dunn | donna@jamesrivermedia.com

CLEAN AIR + HOME COMFORT HAPPY FAMILY

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VOLUME 1 7 ISSUE 2

PUBLISHER

Trish Roth

EDITOR

Donna Dunn

ART DIRECTOR

Kira Rider

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carter Heald Bendall

Mitzi Bible

Shelley Basinger

Becky Calvert

Martha Coffey

Charlotte A. F. Farley

Jerry Hale

Katherine Fulghum Knopf

Margie Lippard

Kendall Atkins Livick

Sarah Nicholas

Amelia Poore

Ginny Smith

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Patch

Craig Shaffer

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Donna Collins

ADVERTISING SALES

Kirsten Morey Becker

Julia Belvin

Joe Katany

Anne Marie Poore

Kenny Shelton

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Central Virginia HOME is published five times annually by James River Media, LLC. For an annual subscription, please send $20 and your name, address and telephone number to: Central Virginia HOME

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Copyright 2023 by James River Media, 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 James River Media, 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, James River Media, 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, James River Media, 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.

ANIMAL

attraction

Create a garden that makes your favorite pollinators feel at home

BY SHELLEY BASINGER

No matter how old I get or the level of gardening experience I accumulate, whenever I see a butterfly come in for a landing or a hummingbird zip in for a snack, I feel the rush of excitement I experienced as a child. I hold my breath — craning my neck at attention — as I watch a small scene unfold.

Of course, we build our gardens to look beautiful, carefully selecting colors and textures that create a visually appealing landscape. However, also consider the wonderful pollinator friends your plants and flowers may entice, such as hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.

Huckleberry Knob Nursery, located at 1469 Sunnymeade Road in Campbell County (about five miles from River Ridge Mall), opened in March 2022, but the owners have been in the green industry for 25 years through their other business ventures: Lynchburg Landscapes and Lynchburg Lawn Care. During the pandemic, owner Scott MacLeod says they noticed a huge shift in residents seeking out pollinator-friendly plants — and that’s a trend he can support.

“Pollinators are a massive part of the ecosystem, and because we are so disconnected from the food chain, we just don’t see that connection. It’s very important for our life force,” he said, citing a U.S. Department of Agriculture statistic that about 35 percent of the world’s food crops depend on animal pollinators to reproduce.

Bottom line: You can attract some of your favorite pollinator friends to your garden and contribute to a bigger cause at the same time. It’s a win-win!

If you’re ready to get started, here are a few of MacLeod’s top tips for bringing pollinators to your garden:

Tip #1: The brighter, the better The brightest, most cheerful colors draw in some of our favorite garden visitors. As MacLeod explains, there is a reason hummingbird feeders often include the color red.

“Hummingbirds tend to gravitate toward red more often. But any bright color. However, generally red is their first go to,” he said.

And according to the National Wildlife Federation, adult butterflies are attracted to red, yellow, orange, pink and purple blossoms. You can’t go wrong with choosing an assortment of these colors to entice butterflies to your yard.

Tip #2: Keep them coming back for more

Just like we will sometimes drive out of the way to go to “our” familiar grocery store, animals, birds and insects are also creatures of habit.

“They are generally nesting close by,” explained MacLeod. “If they know they have a steady food source there they will want to keep coming back.”

That’s why it’s important to consider a layered approach with your garden, making sure to include a blend of plant materials, shrubs, perennials and annuals so that your garden has something to offer for pollinators at various times of the year.

“It creates different textures and colors but also different bloom times,” MacLeod said.

Tip #3: Let it hang…

Hanging baskets on your deck or porch is a way to draw pollinators to different areas around your home, giving them even more places to frequent.

“Some people like to just have one type of flower in their baskets, others like to do a combination so that some of the flowers are growing upright and others are hanging out or cascading out of the basket,” said MacLeod. He prefers a combination approach, such as a mix of petunias, lantana and impatiens.

Caring for hanging baskets can be a little tricky, especially as the weather gets warmer. MacLeod says it’s important to make sure you are selecting a plant

that can handle the amount of sun your porch receives. Watering your hanging baskets a little bit every day is also critical.

“And in some cases, you may need to take your baskets down and give them a rest for a day or two,” he said, adding that “moisture plus” potting soil can help hanging baskets retain water. Sphagnum moss on top of the soil can also prevent it from drying out.

Tip #4: …and let it climb Whether it’s on a fence or a pergola, MacLeod has also noticed a lot more customers adding vines into their outdoor landscapes — and pollinators love them.

“For the most part, vines are very easy to grow,” MacLeod said. “The biggest thing is picking the right vine for the location, for your soil and sun requirement. After that it’s just a matter of training it properly.”

Jasmine performs really well in this area as does a hybrid honeysuckle. You can plant vines year round, but MacLeod recommends the fall season so that the

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vines miss the high heat of summer when they are just starting out.

Now, let’s get specific. Here are a few of MacLeod’s favorite pollinatorfriendly choices at Huckleberry

Knob Nursery:

Perennials

BUTTERFLY BUSHES

Their name gives them away. Butterfly bushes can grow large (anywhere from 4 to 10 feet tall) and there are miniature versions known as Pugster and Lo and Behold (anywhere from 12 inches to 2 feet tall). Both bloom throughout spring and into summer and do extremely well in our area’s clay soil.

BEE BALM

Bee balm is available in many colorful choices — from different shades of pink to very bright purples, whites and blues. Better yet, they are deer resistant. These perennials grow anywhere from 18 inches tall to upwards of 3.5 feet tall.

DAY LILIES

Despite the name, these are not actually lilies. These large, colorful perennials are a top choice for gardeners since they are easy to grow. The only downside is that they are not deer resistant.

COLUMBINE

The columbine plant is a perennial with a gorgeous shape, almost appearing as if two flowers are growing as one. Columbine comes in a range of bright colors and is known to attract

BUTTERFLY BUSH

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top pollinators such as butterflies, moths, bees and hummingbirds — but thankfully, not deer!

LUPINE

Lupine has been gaining traction in the residential market, according to MacLeod. It’s a perennial that you often see growing on the side of the highways in Virginia or North Carolina. “The yellow blooms are really pretty and can grow anywhere from 2 to 4 feet tall,” he said.

Annuals

GERANIUMS, FOXGLOVE, HOLLYHOCK, IMPATIENS, LANTANA AND PETUNIAS

All of the annual recommendations above do a great job bringing in butterflies and hummingbirds. They are available in a range of vibrant colors, and they also have a flower shape pollinators really like.

“A lot of these flowers have a tubular bloom and pollinators can easily access the nectar there. The color can attract them, and the nectar inside keeps them coming back,” said MacLeod. ✦

GERANIUMS

COLUMBINE

FOXGLOVE

Lynchburg’s newest upscale lifestyle community!

Nestled at the end of historic Elmwood Avenue is one of Lynchburg's last large developable parcels of land, Blackwater Run. Within walking distance of Rivermont Avenue and Bedford Avenue (The Flour District), you will find great food, drinks, and shopping. Blackwater Run borders a half mile of The Blackwater Creek Trail, has 3 trail access points and is less than 1.5 miles to downtown Lynchburg. It features sidewalks, street lighting, and tree-lined streets with a neighborhood park.

HOME

premier profile 2023

At Blackwater Run you can bring your own builder and choose your own plan. Lots starting at $75,000 up to $130,000, include water and sewer connection as well as city amenities. There are basement and slab lots available with scenic sunset views. Blackwater Run has several builders who have new homes available now for you to purchase.

When developers Ron Blackwood and Andy Flint found this beautiful piece of land in the heart of Rivermont Avenue also known as 24503, they knew what a special place this would be. They envisioned an active neighborhood with access to the Blackwater Creek Trail, the first of its kind. The two have taken pride in this project as Lynchburg locals and wanted a unique neighborhood that would be enjoyed for generations to come. Andy Flint mentions, “We are pleased with the variety of new homes being constructed at Blackwater Run and are striving to include styles that blend with the existing neighborhood.”

Ron Blackwood adds, “I was just at Blackwater Run the other evening, standing with a homeowner on their front porch, watching the sunset as people walked their dogs, jogged and rode their bikes through the community while saying ‘hello’ as they passed by. This is the community we envisioned.”

To contact: Blackwaterrun.com or call 434-300-1550 or scan the QR code

Awelcomewarm

Porches and entryways bringing the old and new

BY KENDALL ATKINS LIVICK

Your entryway is the drumroll to the experience of your home. It can be dingy and underwhelming at worst or hospitable and awe-inspiring at best.

My Nana used to fling open the door with a twinkle in her eye and say, “Come in this house.” It was a lovely and cozy home, filled with aromas of delicious foods and warm hugs. Little did I know then that my husband and I would one day own and bring our babies home to this same house.

After living there for a few months or so, a few of our neighbors came in one day and said, “Wow, I wasn’t expecting such a decorative and lively house inside.” I soon came to realize I’d focused a lot of attention on the inside, while mostly ignoring the front porch and entryway.

Entryway trends of the moment can best be summed up as traditional with a nostalgic nod to whimsical embellishments. The last few years have led to a renaissance of all things that make us want to lean into warm memories of the places we’ve felt the most loved.

Front porch sittin’

In terms of front porches, traditional symmetry is as popular as ever. Think hanging or potted plants, lanterns, sconces, rocking chairs and window boxes. Layering in organic natural materials like outdoor fringe, jute, wicker and wood add depth and personality in rugs, furniture, textiles, pillows, cushions and throws. Circular and rounded shapes are highlighted in the form of egg-shaped chairs, swings, rounded rugs, tea tables and

spherically trimmed boxwood shrubbery. Create pops of color with flowers, floral and checkered print patterns and painted doors.

While the thinking of the prior minimalistic era was “less is more,” these days, “more is more.” If you enjoy plants, don’t stop at hedges. Fill the space with overflowing terracotta and ceramic pots to not only frame the doorway, but also line the porch steps on both sides. Fill window boxes with cascading blooms. Even the smallest of stoops can be personalized with a cheerful welcome mat, lantern and baby bonsai by the door. Don’t skimp on the topiary. The more precisely curved, zig-zagged or rounded the trimming, the more eye-catching.

In terms of color, for both porches and foyers — black and white contrasts, gold accents, both neutral and moody shades

in monochromatic styles and the rich browns of artistically crafted wood — are thrilling to the eye. Statement marble remains a luxurious feature in foundational furniture and flooring. In terms of accent colors, we can’t forget the color of the year, Pantone’s Viva Magenta. That and related hues like mauve, dusty rose and lavender are showing up as statement doors and built-in features.

Crossing the threshold

You might be wondering, if everything is symmetrical and traditional, then what’s new? Nostalgia is definitely reigning over novelty, and yet novelty is achieved in the eclectic pairing of embellishments.

Leaning further into the biophilic aspects of the home can create a seamless transition from the outdoors in. If you’ve included plants for the ambiance of your porch, consider continuing the theme with a mini tree by the door, a few snake plants or some fresh-cut flowers in an ornate glass vase in the foyer.

Another form of continuity can be seen in the form of a monochromatic color palette in which the walls match with any molding, trim, millwork, art and accessories.

There’s a reason why traditional entryway layouts include a pendant light or chandelier, side table with a mirror and a plant off to the side, typically parallel to a runner that defines the walkway from the front door. Foyers and mudrooms tend to be narrow nooks in the home, and this cohesive layout is what we’ve come to expect.

However, this doesn’t mean we can’t push the limits or create a whole new vibe. If you prefer contrast to cohesion, you can define your foyer as a completely separate area off the beaten path from the porch and the rest of the house.

Get creative

Bring in novelty with accent lighting, such as sconces with colorful shades. Vintage pendant lights, along with backlighting on mirrors, art and encased archways can create visual drama. Statement ceilings painted an accent color or adorned with wallpaper can train the eye to take in the full scale of the room.

Built-ins such as sophisticated cubbies and elaborate custom cabinetry complete with hooks and pegs can add practicality in mudrooms and foyers. Families can reduce clutter by designating this drop zone for shoes, coats, bags, mail and other odds and ends. Additionally, cushioned window seats with pillows can provide comfort and sneaky storage with sliding doors or baskets to keep eyesores hidden.

Honorable mentions for expressive whimsy include tassels, fringe, trim, ruffles, stained and fluted glass, scalloped edges and wallpaper accents. Gallery walls add personality by depicting family, friends and pets.

As for my family, it was a bittersweet day when we outgrew Nana’s nostalgic house and moved out. Again, I waited until last to decorate the entryway, but this time it was intentional. After considering the rest of the house, I wanted to curate a showstopping entryway with a drumroll to the tune of welcoming my loved ones.

The front porch or entryway can really roll out the red carpet for the rest of the house. Why not include a full orchestra, with trumpets, fluting and all the other enthusiastic touches that say to your guests with a twinkle of the eye, “Come in this house.” ✦

IS YOUR KITCHEN KEEPING UP?

Design trends for the most common upgrades

BY MITZI BIBLE

Our kitchens see a lot of activity every day: Besides cooking and baking, there are school projects, coffee visits with neighbors, family game nights, working remotely and the constant coming and going of little hands snatching snacks. Kitchens are truly the hub of our homes, and for that reason, they see more upgrades than perhaps any other room.

Whether you opt for a subtle hardware switch-up, a cabinet facelift or new appliances to bring your kitchen into the 21st century, you’ll find today’s trends reflect both style and function.

Cabinetry

When most homeowners start thinking about upgrading their kitchens, cabinets are at the top of the list. Simplistic designs seem to be taking over, with many people choosing painted cabinets, shaker style, with less interest in the natural wood cabinets of the past.

The National Kitchen + Bath Association’s (NKBA) 2023 Design Trends report states that bold colors are gaining ground. The designers surveyed said they are seeing a rise in richer colors, mainly blues and greens, while white/off-white is still expected to remain the most popular neutral color.

Local interior designer Amy Burczyk, a project manager with L.G. Flint General Contractors in Lynchburg, said she’s still seeing some area homeowners prefer natural wood, but they are drifting away from clean, blonde-color woods to darker, richer stains. Central Virginia seems to be catching on to the national trends in bold paint colors, though, shifting from gray to dark blue and warmer taupe colors.

“Urban bronze (an earthy deep brownish-gray) is a popular choice, but we’re starting to see black and warm wood stains,

and I’m very excited,” Burczyk said. “The drama you can bring to the kitchen with darker wood stains is amazing. Black is extremely dramatic and really, really neat.”

She said she reminds homeowners that black is still a neutral, and that darker, deeper colors will certainly hide more dirt. Anyone with white cabinets knows what a chore it is to keep them clean, especially for a young family or an avid cook.

Burczyk doesn’t expect whites to ever go out of style, but you can add colors in different ways.

“Whites and off-whites stand the test of time, but for a little bit of a punch, I’m seeing various colors in other parts of the kitchen, whether in a butler’s pantry or an island.”

The NKBA says areas like a coffee bar — a trend in recent years — is being upgraded with new colors. Again, greens, blues, and mixed wood grains are being used to bring that extra pop to a neutral kitchen.

If you go neutral on the cabinets, then Burczyk suggests “jewel colors,” like deep turquoise or dark blues, for walls. She also expects to see more “rich plums” and warm pink tones coming in.

“I think people are starting to say, ‘We’re done with the gray thing, now we’re going to throw some color in our lives.’”

In appliances, Burczyk said stainless steel is dominating. But more people are asking for the harder-to-find black stainless, a traditional stainless but with a protective polymer coating that creates a black matte finish.

If you’re looking for other ideas to keep your kitchen neutral but add some pops of color, try switching up your décor, selecting colorful table linens, dinnerware, artwork or mixing in colorful patterns in a tile backsplash.

Storage

Countertop cooking appliances span a wider range today than ever before. If you’ve joined the craze in air fryers, electric pressure cookers, espresso machines and countertop ice makers, you know how handy they are to have around but also how they can start to clutter your kitchen.

According to the NKBA, more homeowners are preferring kitchens with an open look and feel with features to hide clutter. Some creative solutions for tucking away smaller appliances and kitchen gadgets are decorative counter boxes (larger versions of bread boxes) and appliance garages (yes, that’s a real term for under-cabinet cubbies). In existing cabinets, some are choosing to box in the area between the upper

cabinet and counter and install rolltop doors to create an appliance hideaway, fashioned after the old rolltop desk.

Other storage ideas for making your cookware more accessible include installing roll-out drawers in the lower cabinets and special roll-out racks for pot lids and spices. You don’t have to get on your hands and knees and dig to the back of the cabinet anymore!

“There’s little they haven’t thought of. You can use almost any nook and cranny of your kitchen now,” Burczyk said.

Some easy upgrades you can do yourself are inserting shelf risers in your cabinets and open shelves on your walls.

Backsplashes

Another idea to update the style of your kitchen without doing a major overhaul is changing the backsplash. White subway tile has taken kitchens by storm, mainly because it can go with whatever colors you use throughout your kitchen. However, durability is still key — you want a wipe-away surface for all those grease and water splashes. Burczyk said some homeowners are even installing

vinyl tiles made specifically for kitchen backsplashes, which are as durable as today’s vinyl flooring and easier to keep clean than tile and grout. Some are even peel-and-stick, do-ityourself jobs.

She said she’s also seeing more solid surface countertop backs (like quartz) to keep those splashes away from the walls. (See our article on countertops on page 40.)

Washing up

Other upgrades making their rounds are single basin sinks (especially useful for cleaning large pots and pans) and handsfree faucets. Burczyk said she’s getting requests for touchless faucets for almost every job she does. The faucets can either be equipped with smart sensors or turn on with the touch of an arm, proving especially useful when both of your hands are messy. The touchless faucets keep germs from spreading but also conserve water. Most of today’s models come with a pulldown sprayer.

Burczyk said popular finishes are black and brushed brass, with chrome starting to make a resurgence.

Perspective

It’s hard to know how many upgrades it will take to bring our kitchen up to speed and meet all of our needs. But Burczyk suggests using a “whole kitchen perspective” versus just choosing to make an appliance upgrade.

“It’s called ‘economy of scale.’ You need to ask yourself if you will be happy with just a couple of upgrades, or in the end you may wish you had gone big with it. When people get to the point of changing out all the appliances, for example, they’ve probably had them long enough to update the cabinets, too.”

And with so much of our time spent in the kitchen, Burczyk said the main idea when considering small upgrades or a large-scale remodel is to make sure you love your space and that it works for you. Trends will come and go, and today’s popular designs may not match your family’s style in feel and functionality.

She calls this “being authentic.”

“Since COVID, we’ve learned to spend more time at home, and the kitchen has become that family space again. We’re cooking food, playing games, doing homework. You need to have a place to make your own. Colors trend in and out, but today, just about anything goes — you really need to put

The countertop Challenge

Choosing the right option for your space

BY GINNY SMITH

With so many beautiful options available for countertops, choosing which one is right for your space can be challenging. Whether you select a natural stone like a granite or marble or a man-made option such as quartz, asking yourself four simple questions can lead you to the right countertop to use as the focal point for your kitchen:

How much wear and tear will my countertops get?

What is my budget?

How much effort do I want to put into maintenance?

What is my style?

Once you answer these questions, you’ll be able to navigate the many options available.

Function

Our kitchens are busy places where guests tend to gather and where we spend much of our time. Countertops can be the focal point that makes our kitchens pop or they can blend into our cabinets, allowing paint and backsplashes to become the show stoppers.

Most importantly, though, we must evaluate how our countertops will be used. According to Page Hastings-Neal, owner of Spectrum Stone Designs: “Countertops are places to prepare food (cutting and chopping), rest hot pots and pans and store appliances. Picking the right material for the function of the kitchen is key.”

Natural stone like granite or quartzite are popular choices for countertops. “They are hard, dense, durable surfaces that won’t scratch easily and are more tolerant of heat,” explains Hastings-Neal. While some materials are slightly more durable than others, no countertop is indestructible. Natural stone, softer than man-made stone, can be chipped or cracked when something is dropped. “You will have to seal the surface every so often, though.” She recommends sealing natural stone annually. When accidents do happen, most materials can be repaired by trained professionals without requiring the replacement of the countertop.

Quartz, a man-made stone created with natural stone and a polymer resin is a work horse in the kitchen, longlasting, easy to clean and durable. The downside, however, is that quartz is less heat-resistant and less UV-ray resistant. “Quartz shouldn’t be used in outdoor kitchens,” notes Hastings-Neal. “Also, you have to be very cautious. A hot pan can damage the surface of a quartz countertop.”

Budget

With a wide range of affordable options available, an updated look doesn’t have to break the bank. “Most kitchen countertops we do, even with an island, cost around $3,000 to $5,000,” says Hastings-Neal. “Of course, we have high-end stones that can double and triple that amount as well. We always work within a customer’s budget.”

A quick overview of the cost of materials finds laminate and cultured marble among the most inexpensive materials available. The natural stones tend to be more expensive because of the quarrying and machining required to bring them to market. Quartz can be costly, but more affordable options are often available. (See our chart on page 44 for more comparisons.)

Mixing and matching materials is an option to put less strain on the budget. For instance, the outer countertops could be an entry-level natural stone while reserving the “wow factor” for an island created with a premium material.

Maintenance

Smells and liquids can penetrate natural rock, which is a porous material. As a result, you must periodically use a professional-grade sealant or hire a professional to seal natural stone countertops made with granite, marble, quartzite, limestone and soapstone.

You can clean most countertops with a microfiber cloth and a mild cleanser. Wipe up spills right away to avoid

staining. Use a paste of baking soda and water to remove stubborn stains. Commercial cleaning products specific to countertops are also available. “Quartz countertops are known for easy maintenance,” says Hastings-Neal, “but because of being non-heat resistant, you should use trivets to avoid heat damage.”

Personal style

Natural stone and man-made quartz are popular choices for those who want to upgrade their countertops and add value to their homes. Concrete and stainless steel are trending for those who crave a more industrial feel. A concrete appearance can even be created with a smooth, man-made material that mimics the look of concrete. Also, butcher block is another material that finds its way into kitchens for more of a farmhouse feel. With so many options available today, you should be able to find materials and designs that satisfy your inner Joanna Gaines.

“We’re finding that the trend right now is a lot of classic looks,” notes HastingsNeal. “We’re seeing more white with

subtle veining, not a lot of movement, not a lot of color, and softer, more muted tones. Or, we see the exact opposite: going solid black without any movement. Overall, classic looks. We have showrooms in Concord and Forest for customer convenience. Looking and touching the

material makes all the difference.”

Personal style is the driving force in choosing a countertop design. Along with your individual taste, consider function, maintenance and a budget to help you choose the best option that solves your countertop challenge.

Natural Stone

Granite, marble, quartzite, limestone, soapstone, dolomite, onyx

PROS

• Unique veining and flow

• Hard, durable, dense

• Resistant to scratching

• More heat tolerant

• Can be used in outdoor settings

Man-made stone

Quartz

PROS

• Imitates natural stone

• Easily repaired

• No annual maintenance

• Non-porous; food safe and anti-microbial

• Very durable & stain resistant

Laminate

PROS

• Least expensive

• Easy maintenance

• Many colors available

• Lightweight; easy to DIY

Butcher block

PROS

• Can be less expensive if pre-fabricated

• Desirable farmhouse look

• Ability to cut directly on the surface without dulling knives

• Easy to DIY

CONS

• Naturally porous; annual sealing is recommended

• Can be chipped, cracked or scratched by trauma

• Softer stones (i.e. marble, onyx)

• Heavy; hard to DIY

CONS

• Not heat resistant

• Usually more costly than natural stone

• Can be chipped, cracked or scratched by trauma

• Outdoor use is not recommended

• Heavy; hard to DIY

CONS

• Easy to damage

• Difficult to repair damages

• Not heat/scratch resistant

• Will not add to a home's resale value

CONS

• Easy to damage

• Requires frequent sealing to maintain food-safe finish

• Large variance in price and quality between pre-fabricated countertops and custom-made countertops

Concrete, steel, man-made concrete

PROS

• Bold, modern look

• Easy maintenance

• Durable

CONS

• Specific style

• Varying price points

• Cracks, large chips difficult to repair ✦

VBS

Mark

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HAILEY’S APPLIANCE has locations in Lynchburg and Altavista. The showrooms display affordable and highend products to find the best fit for our customers. With simple replacements, renovations, or a new build, Hailey’s has experienced team members to turn your vision into reality. Hailey’s has experienced delivery and service teams to take care of the process from start to finish.

THE

BIG CHILL

The cold, hard truth about refrigerators

BY JERRY HALE

Thinking of replacing an aging refrigerator? Or choosing one for a new home build or kitchen remodel? With the kitchen typically the hub for the waking hours spent in a home, picking just the right chiller is key to how well a home works for its residents.

Refrigerators have recently evolved substantially from the once-standard freezer-on-top design. Side-by-side models came along to meet the demand for more eye-level shelves and easy access to chilled water and ice without opening a door, thus keeping refrigerated air inside the box. Typically between 33 and 36 inches wide, they offer up to a claimed 29 cubic feet of storage capacity. According to Consumer Reports, however, usable storage space for any fridge is usually 10 to 15 percent below what its manufacturer claims due to shelves, ice maker and other special components that take up inside space. And while a side-by-side’s narrow doors are a plus for smaller kitchens, the tall, slender compartments can make items that migrate to the back hard to find. And the doors can be just too narrow to satisfy some buyers.

What buyers want

“Only about a quarter of today’s buyers want the full-length side-byside design,” says Sydney Hailey, who manages the newer Hailey’s Appliance

in Lynchburg— there has been a sister store in Altavista for more than 15 years. Both offer refrigerators of all configurations, made by GE and Whirlpool (the latter also manufactures Kitchen Aid and Maytag-branded appliances). “The French-door models with freezer space in a full-width lower drawer are considerably more popular and steadily evolving,” she notes. “There’s now a version with a separately-controlled drawer between the freezer and fresh food spaces that provides easy access to snacks and beverages ... and yet another with French doors top and bottom. One of those bottom compartments can be separately set for freezing, keeping fresh foods, or anything in between.”

About half of buyers want convenient in-door access to water and ice; the other half prefer a more uninterrupted door aesthetic, Hailey says. Most all models are now available in the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish that 85 percent or so of buyers prefer. GE is now offering matte finishes in white, black, slate and charcoal shades.

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Stock refrigerator prices today start around $700 and, depending on configuration and features, range up to $4,500, Hailey says. “In addition to budget, buyers need to begin by knowing how much space they have to work with. A totally new kitchen or major remodel may allow for one of the wider, taller models while a replace-inthe-existing-space need will be more limiting size-wise.”

Built-in refrigerators

Made to fit flush with cabinets and counters, built-in refrigerators come in bottom-freezer, side-by-side and French-door styles. Pricey, they are usually tall (upward of 85 inches) and wide (up to 48 inches), with claimed capacities of 29 cubic feet and more. Some come ready for front panels that can make them seem to disappear into the kitchen cabinetry. Another built-in option is a column refrigerator, which forgoes a freezer compartment to maximize fresh-food storage and is typically paired with a matching freezer unit.

Buyers designing spacious gourmet kitchens may wish to consider commercial-grade Sub-Zero units— beginning around $7,000 in either their traditional stainless steel or “panel ready” option for the ultimate built-in look.

A refrigerator is a significant purchase these days, so it’s wise to shop around before taking the polar plunge. Consumer Reports offers a Refrigerator Buyer’s Guide that summarizes their independent test results.

“We Plumb Care”

How to keep your fridge clean

Use these tips from The Home Depot to get started with your refrigerator spring cleaning.

STEP 1: Unplug the refrigerator, which saves energy while doors are open. If you are cleaning the freezer section, let the walls warm while working on the fridge section.

STEP 2: Remove all food, putting the most temperaturesensitive items into coolers with frozen foods as “ice.” Toss outdated leftovers.

STEP 3: Remove drawers and shelves; wash them with warm water and dish soap, rinse and dry.

STEP 4: Use a vacuum to suck up crumbs and other loose debris.

STEP 5: Use an all-purpose cleaner or cloth soaked in baking

soda water to wipe down all inside surfaces. Baking soda paste will loosen caked-on spills and tough stains.

STEP 6: Give surfaces a final wipe-down with baking soda water. Allow to dry. Wipe off top surface.

STEP 7: Replace washed and dried shelves and drawers.

STEP 8: Plug in unit and place food back inside, reorganizing as needed.

STEP 9: Close doors, then clean and polish outside surfaces and handles.

Note that it is wise to periodically pull your refrigerator out of its niche, vacuum the floor underneath and any exposed coils. Be sure fridge is unplugged while cleaning coils, compressors and any exposed wiring. ✦

Light-filled living

GARDEN ROOMS INVITE SPRING INSIDE

BY MARGIE LIPPARD

Abounding with fresh greenery, flowering plants and warm sunlight, garden rooms beckon spring’s splendor inside. Distinct from a greenhouse, these idyllic rooms with a view are designed for cozy light-filled living. Whether an extension of your home or a repurposed posh shed, a garden room enhances your home’s décor yet boasts unique features that usher nature indoors: glass windows, natural building materials like stone and wood, rustic furniture and plants galore. A versatile oasis, it expands your floor space and serves myriad purposes, from a sylvan home office and gym to a charming guest bedroom or dining nook. Whatever its function, your garden room will provide a relaxing retreat where you can escape from life’s daily stresses and let your creativity soar.

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794 Leesville Road | Lynchburg, VA 24502

A happy place

Garden rooms are trending in home design. For those working remotely, home offices and workout rooms are house-hunting must haves. In a COVID world, indoor-outdoor living and entertaining are not only a gracious lifestyle but essential to staying healthy.

For Alicia Smith, vice president of F&S Building Innovations, the greenery, natural wood furnishings and light in garden rooms inspire and relax. She says, “My happy place is out in the sunshine. A lot of times, garden rooms incorporate a lot of natural elements, wood and greenery. Greenery itself is relaxing and peaceful. It’s a great way to start your day and wind down your day.”

Inspiring history

You can create a garden room in your home or as a freestanding structure connected by pathways to the house. Your personality, your home’s décor and your budget will guide your decision. A garden room house extension costs more than a stand-alone one and typically requires planning commission approval but a free-standing structure may not, depending on your locality. Both can raise the resale value of your home as they increase your home’s usable space.

“A lot of times, garden rooms incorporate a lot of natural elements, wood and greenery. Greenery itself is relaxing and peaceful.’’

— Alicia Smith, vice president of F&S Building Innovations

FAVORITES AWARDS 2022

Home extension garden rooms — sunrooms, orangeries and conservatories — enjoy a rich architectural history, writes art historian Lynn Byrne in her article “Garden Rooms, Then and Now” in Interior Design

Introduced in Renaissance Italy, orangeries were initially greenhouses where the affluent cultivated citrus trees ripened by the sun rather than importing their fruit from the Mediterranean. Glass conservatories or “crystal palaces” prevailed in grand Victorian homes and gardens. The New York Botanical Garden’s Enid A. Haupt Conservatory is the apotheosis of a Victorianstyle crystal palace. With the introduction of furnishings, glass greenhouses pivoted to comfortable garden rooms.

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Contemporary home orangeries contain glass, stone, brickwork and a roof, which integrate with the house’s architecture. In contrast, a conservatory is constructed mostly with glass windows embedded in the walls and roof. By installing heating and cooling, insulation and electricity, these sunny sanctuaries offer cozy year-round, light-filled living without even venturing outside.

Building a free-standing garden room takes careful planning. According to building experts, you’ll want to consider the size and landscaping of your property; where and when the shade and sunlight fall; barriers such as fencing and hedges; existing garden structures like a pergola or trellis; and your home’s architecture and aesthetic. A detached garden room affords delectable privacy to fire up your creativity and find respite. Smith notes, “A true greenhouse is better detached from the house because it is a place to truly get away. There is a physical separation for those who seek out that peace.”

A perfect example of a stand-alone garden room is Edankraal, the restored garden and writing cottage at the Anne Spencer House and Garden in Lynchburg. There, Anne Spencer, the acclaimed African-American Harlem Renaissance poet, penned her garden-inspired poems and refueled for her civil rights advocacy during Lynchburg’s Jim Crow segregation. The cottage’s name is a combination of Edward, Anne and kraal, the Afrikaans word for enclosure or corral. Edward Spencer, Anne’s husband, planned and built the vegetable and flower garden and writing cottage with her. A United States postman, Spencer salvaged eclectic objects and sturdy structures from his postal route with which they rendered the garden and cottage.

Light & décor

You can build a perfect bespoke garden room by using quality materials that reference the outdoors. Natural construction materials such as brick, wood and stone are durable and long lasting. Solar windows and sturdy pre-engineered designs of metal and glass are popular. For Smith, the more glass, the better. She notes, “People love glass rooms. One of the biggest selling features of a garden sunroom is its light and windows.”

Ensure your windows and screens are operable, so fresh air can flow in during the spring, summer and fall. A garden room’s furnishings and décor can be fun and eclectic yet still complement your home’s design. Bring in your weathered outdoor painted table and chairs for a refresh. If your garden room is a modern glass extension, minimal furnishings will look chic and elegant. Wicker, iron or teak furniture is classic and sturdy, yet low maintenance. Smith

thinks teak wood works especially well in garden rooms because it is so durable: “Teak is a great option. The wood weathers well. If you oil it, it looks brand new again. It is a good option for longevity.”

Garden room décor reflects the room’s purpose while celebrating the outdoors. Plantings add interest, color, texture and fragrance to a garden room. When selecting them, consider their water and sun requirements so they’ll thrive indoors. Pair colorful floral and striped upholstery fabrics with rustic wood

furniture and add pops of color and pattern. Throw pillows, blankets and rugs will soften the room’s ambiance. When adding artwork and garden statuary, you’ll fashion an inspiring space to get creative.

Your garden room will bring the outside in for you and your family to enjoy year-round. In the springtime, you can plant seedlings, work, study or exercise while soaking up the sun and marveling at spring’s ever-unfolding blossoms. This is cozy, light-filled living at its best. ✦

One small change, ONE HUGE IMPACT

UPDATING YOUR HARDWARE

BY CHARLOTTE A.F. FARLEY

Whether you’re planning a full-fledged kitchen remodel, thinking about refinishing a piece of furniture, or hoping to bring a little more character into the bathroom, consider changing the hardware.

Unlike upgrading the hardware components on your PC, updating the hardware on your kitchen or bathroom cabinets is relatively quick, inexpensive and easier than you’d think. Cabinet knobs aren’t difficult to install: Simply grab a screwdriver, remove the existing knobs and install the new ones for a whole new look. Pro tip: if you have a tricky piece of hardware to fit, take it with you to your home improvement store when you shop for replacements.

Updating your hardware also makes for a great way to give your space a mini-makeover because, after all, your kitchen hardware is really the jewelry of the cabinetry. It can dress a room up or down while making a style statement.

Choosing new hardware

Once you’ve decided to switch out the old handles for something new, you might find yourself easily lost in making decisions between pull bars, handles, latches, hinges and drop bail pulls, thinking that this all sounds like someone’s workout of the day and not cabinet details! Navigating the hardware section can be overwhelming, but here are a few ideas on how to make choosing new hardware simple and fun.

PROPORTION

Whether you’re simply trading your old door pulls for something new or you want to update the appearance of your home’s doors with a trending style, there are a few things to consider. First, keep scale in mind! When we talk about scale, we’re referring to proportions. For instance, you won’t want to put itty bitty knobs on drawers and then have oversized pulls on cabinet doors — things will seem completely out of proportion. Whatever upgrade you have in mind, make sure that the hardware is in line size-wise!

STYLE

Next, you’ll want to consider the kind of cabinets you have in terms of shape and dimension. A modern cabinet door will benefit from sleek hardware, certainly, but what if your cabinets aren’t brand new? Any cabinetry that features a strong square shape will look lovely with flat bar pulls while a more rounded hardware will complement arched or cathedral style panels. Don’t forget that this is an opportunity to add your own brand of panache, too. Keep things classic with knobs and cup pulls, or impart a chic contemporary flair with thin pull bars.

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Getting trendy

Changing your hardware is a good way to freshen up the facade of your doors and keep things current without veering too far into passing trends. That being said, there are a few noteworthy trends in hardware fashion that won’t seem dated anytime soon. For instance, gold hardware enjoyed a resurgence in popularity over the past few years, and that trend is here to stay. Likewise, matte black metal became en vogue with the onset of the modern farmhouse stye. While gray, white and shiplap are on their way out, the matte black metal drawer pulls and doorknobs of modern farmhouse design are sticking around for the long haul.

Vintage glass knobs and pulls aren’t just for living room and bedroom doors anymore, they’re slowly making their way into more kitchens and bathrooms. They offer an elegant way to give a glamorous touch to any area of your home.

One new trend for 2023 comes in the form of the edge pull. Streamlined and simple, edge pulls deliver a large dose of upto-date style in a small, sleek package. And of course, we can’t forget to mention one of the more controversial trends out there (there can be controversy over anything, folks!): mixing metals. Proponents of mixing metals take the point of view that if Rolex can do it, I can, too — and it’s hard to argue with that logic, isn’t it? If you find the mixed metal look appealing and long to add a touch of luxury to your kitchen and bath, then start by evaluating the undertones of the metals. In other words, blending warm and cool tones (e.g. polished chrome paired with nickel) will result in a mismatch, not an artful blend. Instead, try oil-rubbed bronze finishes with copper tones, for example.

You certainly can and should go ahead and mix finishes if you’re going to mix metals! Pair that polished nickel with satin brass, and remember that matte black plays nicely with essentially any shiny, polished finish.

Finally, remember that the hardware you choose is really the little something that can tie the elements of a room together. It can add contrast or sheen; it can emphasize a vintage style or a modern design. Enjoy shopping for new “jewelry” for your bath, kitchen or furniture update, and bring a fresh look to your space. ✦

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PHOTO: CRAIG SHAFFER FOR SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

Historic Lynchburg home and its gardens blossom anew

BY CARTER HEALD BENDALL

Photography by Michael Patch and Craig Shaffer

Nestled on 10 acres, with a long history of garden parties and hospitality, sits the home of Heather and George Zippel. Acclaimed Virginia architect Stanhope Spencer Johnson (1881–1973) designed the wood-framed Williamsburg Cape Cod with a slate roof and the finest materials available in 1938. Additionally, renowned garden architect Charles F. Gillette designed the formal gardens. With this pedigree of architects, it is no wonder that this house is like nothing else in the city.

Ruth and Harold G. Leggett originally commissioned the house. Harold founded the Leggett department store in Lynchburg in 1927 and was involved with the company until it was sold to Belk in 1996. A family story passed along to the Zippels is that the Leggetts enlisted the help of Johnson by giving him a picture of a Williamsburg Cape Cod and asking that he “make the house look like this, but bigger.” The house has a five-bay central block, but Johnson added wings to both sides to make it larger, while still keeping it only one room deep. The exceptional millwork, thick plaster walls, and heavy moldings are details that Johnson was known for and are found across the house. The Leggetts named the home “Open Gate” after the beautiful gates that marked the entry to the driveway. The Zippels still have these gates and hope to one day have them restored and installed.

Lynchburg: An Architectural History

The Zippel's home is featured on pages 470-471 of Lynchburg: An Architectural History. As the book describes, the house is “perhaps the largest Williamsburg cottage in Lynchburg ... [with] a five-bay central block with hyphens and wings on either side. While the central block is symmetrical, the wings are purposefully varied in design and arrangement.”

PHOTO: JAMES RIVER MEDIA

PHOTO: CRAIG SHAFFER FOR SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

PHOTO: CRAIG SHAFFER FOR SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

Bathed in light

The Zippels have worked on renovating the house and gardens for more than a decade. Heather, an interior designer by trade, put her skills to work by chipping away at updating most of the interiors. In 2011, they updated the kitchen, which is at the north end of the house. They removed a bar to open up the room and added windows along the back of the house to let in light. Heather loves how the sun rises in the front and sets at the back of the house so that natural light bathes its rooms all day long through its 58 windows. To brighten the kitchen even more, they installed new white cabinets, added a marble backsplash and a white quartz countertop on the island. Two modern gold pendants hang above the island, crafted from walnut and stained a warm brown to ground the space. On the wall, a large, colorful abstract by Frankie Slaughter commands attention.

A family room flows easily off the kitchen. This room was originally the dining room, complete with elegant arched doorways and a beautiful built-in.

The room has one of the five functional fireplaces found in the house. The décor is light and airy, with accents of blue and khaki. The sofas are covered in a solid khaki linen. A gingham ottoman provides a bold pattern for the room and blue accents are found in the curtains and area rug. A spectacular capiz shell ball chandelier provides overhead light.

A work of art

The family room transitions into the dining room by way of a small staircase. This room was originally the formal living room but has been used as a dining room for decades. It is by far Heather’s favorite room in the house. With 12-foot ceilings, another fireplace, and built-in bookcases, the room feels grand.

Heather purchased a crystal light fixture in High Point, N.C., and it sits above the antique mahogany pedestal dining table encircled by white bamboo chairs with green velvet seats. Two cloth-covered armchairs in the same green fabric, but with a wide blue trim, flank the ends of the table. Bright blue chinoiserie curtain panels adorn the numerous windows.

The Zippels love to collect art, particularly George. The dining room has no shortage of unique and vibrant pieces. A

bright periwinkle painting of a woman, done by Kate McClure, decorates the space above the mantle. Inside the fireplace and on the shelves next to it, a large collection of blue and white porcelain is on display. Above an antique chest sits an abstract by Spanish artist Joan Miro, a contemporary of Picasso. Another interesting piece, which resides above the French settee, is a signed and numbered lithograph of sea life by Japanese artist Kaiko Moti.

Room to room

Continuing to move across the house from the dining room places guests at the front entryway. Typical of Stanhope Johnson, the millwork in this room is stellar. The U-shaped staircase shows off a one-of-a-kind Chinese Chippendale railing that is astoundingly beautiful. The heart of pine floors laid in varying widths are original to the house. A screened-in porch flows off the entryway, which the Zippels are planning to enclose in the future, as it provides a perfect vantage point for the gardens.

Opposite the entryway, the library houses yet another fireplace with a bright painting of the facades of houses in Mexico by Lynchburg artist David Eakin above it. Heather says this painting is special because “it is one that we both really love.” A polished ebony piano stands to the right of the fireplace and opposite is a sofa covered in a light beige Sunbrella fabric that allows the artwork to do the talking and is easy to clean. Built-in bookshelves house white pottery and contemporary abstract prints.

Stepping down out of the library, the house transitions to an office and then to a main bedroom suite. The Zippels renovated both the main bath and closet. Heather designed all of the cabinetry for the closet and bath, as well as the layout for the bathroom. Keeping with the arched doorways found in the rest of the house, an arched opening leads into the bathroom space. A stand-alone soaking tub divides the space with a large, colorful painting by Kelly Mattox hanging above it. Carrera marble tile laid in a herringbone pattern covers the floor, and all of the other finishes are done in shades of white. Heather says the large frameless glass shower is their favorite part of the renovation because, “when the light comes in the back windows at about 4 in the afternoon, it’s ethereal.”

The upstairs consists of two bedrooms and a bathroom while the ground level runs the entire length of the house. It consists of two renovated bedrooms and a bathroom, a laundry room, two sets of stairways and another den. Due to its elevation, all two and a half stories of the back of the house are above ground, thus full of light. Walking out of the ground level doors leads to a substantial brick patio that overlooks the backyard formal gardens.

The gardens

When it came time to tackle the immensely overgrown formal gardens, the Zippels brought in Mark Maslow with Southern Landscape Group, Inc. Heather says of the project, “We wanted to honor the bones of the structure of the garden. Working with Mark was wonderful because he understood that.”

Maslow was excited to be brought in on the project, saying, “I felt honored to do it. Knowing the talent that stood on those very grounds 100 years earlier, I felt a true obligation to honor the design integrity he originally laid out.” The Zippels shared photos they personally had of the garden, as far back as they could go, so that they could all try to understand the layout and symmetry of the garden.

Phase one of the renovation included the removal of 250 English boxwoods that lined the garden. When George purchased the property, they were so large that the brick walking path around the garden was totally blocked and he didn’t find it until he began to trim the boxwoods. Heather says of the boxwoods: “We had to be honest about the overgrowth as much as it bothered us to remove a piece of the garden’s history.” This overgrowth coincided with the boxwood blight that was taking out English boxwoods across the state. Maslow says, “We had special sanitation stations set up to clean tools, boots, trucks, etc. We had to take debris that was removed to a special location at our 12-acre facility and burn them to prevent cross contamination. It was a challenge.”

PHOTO: CRAIG SHAFFER FOR SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

PHOTO: CRAIG SHAFFER FOR SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

The next phase involved adding plant material back to the garden. Because of the deer population, they had to focus on deer-resistant plants like peonies, daffodils, nepeta, allium, viburnum, lilacs, arborvitae and skip laurel. After the deer devoured the limelight hydrangeas Heather hoped would be left uneaten, they now have to be protected with mesh fencing. Since the garden is symmetrical, it has been a challenge to keep both sides the same size since the sun shows favor to half of the garden.  Heather and Maslow both particularly enjoy two parts of the garden: the plinth in the center and the reflecting pool at the back of the garden. The garden has a modern irrigation system as well as an underground drainage system that was placed when the garden was built in 1938. Amazingly, some of the terracotta piping is still in the ground and functional. Gillette

was also forward thinking in installing numerous spigots around the garden and extending across the property — many of which still work.

The Zippels have even more plans in the coming years. The gardens to the side of the house are just now starting to be refreshed, complete with a new retaining wall and plans for the installation of a cutting garden. They are also looking at doing additional work in the front yard, along the driveway.

Mark Twain said, “Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection.” By spreading their property renovations out over time, the Zippels have not allowed themselves to be so overwhelmed. Over the last decade, they have made huge strides in their quest to bring “Open Gate” back to its glory days. I, for one, cannot wait to see where the journey leads. ✦

PHOTO: CRAIG SHAFFER FOR SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

PHOTO: CRAIG SHAFFER FOR SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE GROUP

Funderburk Iron Works serves the Lynchburg area with more than 25 years of welding and steel fabrication experience and 20+ years in specialized ornamental iron work — highly detailed and all handmade. From forging in the fire to the welding table, we can make your dream a reality. We use cutting-edge technology with CAD software to design what you want and laser cut exact parts to complete a custom fabrication project. We include you in the design process, if you choose, or we can create designs for you to choose from.

AN INVESTMENT IN BEAUTY AND SECURITY

When you invest in custom ironwork, the curb appeal for your home or office grows exponentially. Because iron is a premium product, recognized for centuries as a topquality material, it instantly conveys a timeless sense of luxury and stateliness. This classic beauty often becomes the jewel of the home.

At the same time, the durable nature of iron creates a feeling of permanence. When you install a gate or fence of iron, you know it will provide long-lasting security.

YOUR LOCAL IRONWORKS CREATOR

Jeremy Funderburk, a veteran and 4G certified welder, owns and operates Funderburk Iron Works. With a shop in Evington, Jeremy formerly taught welding at Virginia Technical Institute. He works alongside assistant A.J. Cartolaro, who Jeremy is training up in the trade.

All work is professionally  powder coated and personally installed by Jeremy. For larger fences, he also works with a partner subcontractor. Over the years, Jeremy has tackled increasingly complex jobs that require professional engineering, such as staircases. He said, “I love a good challenging job that keeps me sharp.”

ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE WITH MOBILITY ISSUES

Across the years, Jeremy has worked with many people who have mobility issues and need help navigating uneven landscapes and stairs and need a very sturdy railing. This is especially important in outdoor areas that may have stone steps with nothing to hold onto. Jeremy has created handrails for long distances leading to boat docks at Smith Mountain Lake and on a variety of terrains in the Lynchburg area. “I want people to be aware of needing safety handrails in and around the home to prevent falls. Iron is very strong, will look good and do the job for the rest of your life,” he said.

ANY EXCUSE TO

Spring flavors call for celebration

BY SARAH NICHOLAS

brunch

Brunch is a lifestyle. It’s not only a promise of good food, but to great company and time to unwind. I love how it's more relaxed than a dinner party but has a vibe of celebration. Here are my top three reasons to “brunch” whenever you get the chance.

1. Brunch is the best of both worlds: You can have your favorite breakfast, lunch or dinner options. It’s a no-rules menu.

2. People are happier at brunch. They got to sleep in (maybe, unless you are a parent to 6- and 8-year-olds, like myself), and they are more relaxed.

3. There is usually champagne. Need I say more?

Here are some easy, fun recipes to make brunch happen!

Cornmeal Cakes with Strawberry Basil Compote

Hands down my favorite brunch dish! It is beautiful with its lacy appearance and tastes divine. I especially love it with the addition of rum for those adult-only brunch times!

COMPOTE

1 pound strawberries, cleaned, trimmed and hulled

Handful of fresh basil, minced

2 tablespoons rum (optional) or ¼ cup water

2 tablespoons sugar

PANCAKES

1 ½ cups half & half

4 teaspoons cider vinegar

1 ½ cups fine cornmeal

¾ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon baking powder

¾ teaspoon kosher salt

2 large eggs

4 tablespoons butter, divided

Cook strawberries, basil, rum and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until strawberries are softened and syrupy, 15 minutes. Let compote cool.

Whisk half & half and vinegar in a small bowl and let it curdle slightly. Combine cornmeal, baking soda, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk eggs into half & half mixture and slowly add to dry ingredients. Whisk to fully combine. Melt 2 teaspoons of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Ladle ⅓ cup batter into skillet. Cook pancake until lacy and golden underneath. Flip and cook about 1 minute more. Repeat about eight times. To serve, spoon compote on top!

Spicy Strawberry Sparkle

This cocktail has a funny story: It started out being called “The Feisty Homeschooler” when my mom friends and I went to quarantine/homeschooling mode in 2020. Now that life is much changed, I have retitled it to a more fun name that captures its sparkly vibe!

5-7 oz Champagne

1 tablespoon strawberry syrup

(see note)

Dash of cayenne

Mint sprigs for garnish

Add 1 tablespoon of the syrup to a glass of champagne, no stirring, and garnish with a dash of cayenne and mint!

Note: Strawberry syrup (makes approximately 24 1-tablespoon servings)

6 strawberries

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

2 sprigs of mint

Wash and core strawberries. Combine berries, water and sugar

in saucepan, and bring to a boil. Stir in vanilla, and add 2 sprigs of mint. Reduce heat to a simmer, about 15 to 20 minutes until strawberries are very soft. Strain the mixture well. Allow to cool.

CAMPS & CLASSES

Spring Forward Salmon Orzo Salad

I love adding smoked salmon as a protein at brunch. It isn’t your traditional bagel and lox, which I adore, but this is amazing, too. It hits all the notes of spicy, salty, sweet and hearty yet light.

SALAD

1 ½ cups orzo, cooked

½ cucumber, chopped

1 shallot, minced

2 tablespoons red onion, chopped

1 tablespoon capers, drained

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Handful of fresh arugula

8 ounces of smoked salmon, chopped

DRESSING

½ cup sour cream

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

½ teaspoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

teaspoon cayenne

1 tablespoon chives, minced

Salt & pepper to taste

In a large bowl, prep your salad ingredients. Set aside. In another bowl, combine the dressing ingredients and whisk vigorously. Toss everything together. Salad is best cold! ✦

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Our nationally-recognized LifeCare program offers you the security that comes with having a solid plan for your future. Discover life refreshed at Westminster Canterbury and get ready to enjoy the best decision you will ever make!

Spring Cleaning Inspiration

Best tools and techniques

BY MARTHA COFFEY

Spring cleaning, a tradition of deep cleaning when warmer weather begins, is the timehonored way to usher in a new season and tackle the toughest of household chores. While the fourth week in March is designated as National Cleaning Week, many of us prefer April to launch our cleaning sprees.

Regardless of the start date you select, be assured that the results of your efforts will produce a greater sense of well-being in your home. Research tells us that a clean, clutterfree home is likelier to be a stress-free home. Indeed, it has long been proven that clutter and disorganization lead to higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol and an increase in depressed moods: strong motivation for getting your home in order.

Cleaning professionals suggest the following tools and techniques for getting and keeping your living space sparkling.

Assemble your supplies

Experts recommend using a caddy or bucket with a handle to hold basic cleaning supplies such as an all-purpose cleaner, a glass cleaner and a mildly abrasive cleaner. To these add plenty of microfiber cloths and a pair of rubber gloves. Keep other more specialized cleaners in the rooms where they will be used. In the kitchen, for instance, you will always need a grease-cutting liquid dish soap and you may also need a dishwasher detergent, a stainless steel polish for appliances, an oven cleaner,

scouring pads and Clorox disinfecting wipes, to name just few. Bathrooms may call for a grout cleaner, a toilet bowl cleaner and brush, a double-sided sponge, plus a Magic Eraser for easy sink, tub and shower clean-up.

Set yourself up for success by using the following products extensively tested by Consumer Reports and Best Products Review.

• Mr. Clean Clean Freak Deep Cleaning Mist (an all-purpose cleaner)

• Bar Keepers Friend (a mild abrasive cleaner)

• Sprayway Ammonia-Free Glass Cleaner

• Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel

• Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

• Dawn Dish Soap Ultra Dishwashing Liquid

• Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

• Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pods

• Magic’s Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish

• Weiman’s Stainless Steel Cleaning and Polishing Microfiber Cloth

• Easy-Off Fume Free Oven Cleaner

Choose your tools

Professional house cleaners confirm that matching the tool to the job is critical. One of the most-used mechanized tools is the vacuum cleaner. With such a wide array of types and prices, allow Consumer Reports to help you make the best selection. Consider your living space and then choose from the following, keeping in mind that some homeowners find it helpful to have multiple vacuums for different areas of their homes. Whatever your needs, the following have been the most highly rated for 2023.

• Best Bagged Upright: Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly 31150

• Best Bagged Canister: Miele Complete C3

• Best Corded Stick Vacuum: Shark Vertex Ultralight HZ2002

• Best Cordless Stick Vacuum: Samsung Jet 90 Complete VS20R9046T3/AA

• Best Robotic Vacuum: iRobot Roomba S9+

• Best Handheld Vacuum: Shark Ion W1 WV201

Plan your strategy

Work room by room and always clean from the top down. If you’re working on a big cleaning project, don’t spread yourself thin. It’s better to start and complete only a few chores in a room than to have several halffinished chores. Completing one small project at a time will help you build momentum

Break big tasks into smaller chunks. Assess what needs to be done in each room and then tackle each smaller job individually. This approach prevents feeling overwhelmed. Instead of setting an intention to vacuum an entire room, including the ceiling, the ceiling fan, the walls, the baseboards and the floor, plan to vacuum just the ceiling and fan at one time and save the rest for another time. It’s always best to complete everything in one room before moving on to the next.

Don’t start projects you don’t have time to complete. If you have only a half an hour to spend on spring cleaning one day, be sure to select a 30-minute task. A half an hour might, for instance, be just enough time to clean out your nightstand drawers or the junk drawer in your kitchen if that’s the room you are working in. Unfinished cleaning tasks lead to dips in motivation.

In whichever room you are working, focus on functional organizing. Functional organizing is based on the belief that the items you are organizing should be just as easy to put away as to leave out. After all, if it will take more time and effort to put items away than to leave them out, there will be no motivation to store things properly and your organizing will not reap lasting results.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to take an inordinate amount of time or require expensive specialized equipment; it just takes a willingness to plan and the gumption to see the tasks through to completion. And there is nothing wrong with asking for help. Even the youngest family members can do small chores. Have all who share your space help develop a checklist for spring cleaning tasks. Turn the radio up, put your earbuds in, or listen to a riveting podcast to enjoy the time spent cleaning.

Top spring cleaning tasks

• Declutter first. Toss or recycle expired items, outgrown or worn-out shoes and clothing, broken and/or no longer age appropriate toys, paper refuse, random chargers, cords and broken electronics and surplus kitchen items.

• Dust ceilings, light fixtures and fans with a broom or longhandled duster and then vacuum up whatever falls to the floor.

• Vacuum and/or wash walls and baseboards. Rooms with less traffic may only require vacuuming, whereas kitchens, bathrooms and entryways usually require washing. The same is true for doors and door jams.

• Wash windows and blinds.

• Wash shower curtains and bathmats, as well as any other throw rugs throughout the house.

• Clean outdoor furniture.

• Vacuum furniture and curtains, spot cleaning as necessary and moving furniture to vacuum underneath it. Don't forget to remove the cushions on furniture and vacuum underneath those, too.

• Clean grout in both the kitchen and bathrooms. Black Diamond

Ultimate Grout Cleaner is the most highly rated product for this job.

• Wash bedspreads and blankets and vacuum mattresses.

• Deep clean the refrigerator and freezer. ✦

Soils, fertilizers, and amendments from Foxfarm, Coast of Maine, Espoma, Gaia Green, Dakind 420, Down To Earth and many more

Huge selection of bird feeders and bird seed

Animal feeds from New Country Organics, Tribute Horse Feeds, Diamond Dog & Cat Foods and others

Local honeys, produce (seasonal) and Virginia’s Finest Foods

Unique gifts

Lawn & garden supplies and plants

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BOUTIQUE DIY STUDIO AND GIFT SHOP

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434.439.4180 • arworkshop.com/lynchburg 1705 Enterprise Drive, Suite 140, Lynchburg, VA

pastries | cakes | pies | bread

homemade soup | salad | sandwiches | quiche

Absolute oasis

Creating a home wellness space

BY BECKY CALVERT

One of the lingering effects of COVID-19 is how we have adapted our homes to accommodate so many aspects of our lives. From home offices to kitchen renovations, garden overhauls to wellness spaces, we’ve turned our homes into places that sustain us for every activity we can imagine.

With so much of our lives now focused under one roof, it’s important to carve out space for recharging our batteries.

What is a wellness space?

Wellness spaces can be used to describe a home gym, a yoga studio or meditation room, a hobby space, a library or even a little music studio. It’s carving out a space that allows you to shake off your day and reset your battery, giving you emotional, as well as physical, wellness.

Wellness spaces can be as luxurious as an entire room devoted to serving as a home spa, complete with sauna and massage table or as simple as a corner in your underutilized guest room where you practice yoga and meditation. There is no set definition for wellness spaces beyond a place that helps create calm, so whatever form your wellness space takes is absolutely determined by your needs, space and budget.

How to create a wellness space

These wellness spaces don’t have to be limited to one function, rather, they can host multiple purposes. In creating your own wellness space, consider exactly what you’ll be doing in there – you’ll want form to follow function, meaning, the purpose(s) for the space should dictate the set-up. There should be storage, good lighting, and enough room to carry out all the activities you desire to take place there. Make the investment in the right tools and equipment to make the space exactly what you want it to be, which in turn, helps you maximize the space.

If you’re lucky enough to have an entire room to work with, you can create zones for various activities. One corner can be for reading, another for yoga and so on.

But one needn’t have an entire room as long as you can carve out a space that is used intentionally to find your inner calm somewhere within your home. Here are a few tips:

Storage. You’ll want the space to be one that you make a habit of using, so having it be well organized will lend itself toward that goal. Shelves or bins can be used to store whatever you will need for your chosen activities: hand weights, yoga mats and blocks, books or craft materials.

Natural elements. A touch of nature can add a soothing element while adding a dash of life to the area. Plants, natural light, a view out a window or just some botanical prints can add warmth and encouragement to slow down and breathe.

Light. Lighting is another important consideration. If you are going to be using the space as a library or hobby space, you’ll want to ensure suitable light levels to carry out your activity, whereas a yoga or meditative space would require more mood lighting.

Ashwood Ashwood Blooms Blooms

Set the stage. Develop the right atmosphere for your space with music, a small fountain or a white noise machine, as they help you shift attention away from the outside world and focus on the activity at hand. Another consideration is aromatherapy, using a diffuser for essential oils to fill the air with fragrance that offers a host of benefits, including calmness and mood boosters.

Start simply. If you want to use your wellness space for exercise, start simply. You can perform a number of activities with just a mat and resistance bands. As you explore more options, you can add to your collection. Your interest and space may determine how big you go.

Get outside. Wellness spaces are not just limited to indoors. Gardens and exterior structures in the outdoor portions of your home can be used in a variety of ways to offer calm while also doubling as entertaining and even working spaces. A shaded seating area near a flower garden humming with pollinators can be a delightful spot for bird watching or enjoying a nice book. An exterior wellness space can be a secondary one, but it also opens up the possibilities to find sanctuary within your own personal habitat.

You’ll want to be drawn to your wellness space, so make it what you want it to be. If having a Peloton and a yoga mat in a corner is what helps you unwind, then make that your wellness space. Or maybe turning that room over the garage into a combination hobby studio/happy hour spot is more your style. A home wellness space should be planned around what helps you relax and recharge, shrugging off the demands of modern life. ✦

Let’s take this

OUTSIDE

Creative ideas for your lawn and garden

BY AMELIA POORE

We’re constantly learning new ways to create and customize the interior of our homes with tried-and-true methods for exerting creative energy in our space. This spring, consider taking that energy outside to create a garden space you’ll love all year long.

Green expectations

Before getting to work outdoors, you need to make a garden design. It might sound daunting, but the main question is how you will be using the space: Will it be a gathering place for loved ones? A work zone for your green thumb? A play space for your best four-legged friends? Or a spot for you to unwind? Based on your answer, you can more easily determine your specifications.

If you are (or would like to be) a hobby gardener, consider some raised garden beds. Whether you’re cultivating flowers or growing fresh produce, raised beds have many benefits. First, they provide much more control over soil, drainage and pests than a typical plot, making them practical even in a grassless garden. Additionally, you can select any height — perfect for those of us with uncooperative joints or curious pets. And of course, a raised bed can be made of virtually any material, which ensures they’ll be just as pretty as they are functional! Add a seating area or fire pit nearby to make your hard work the true focal point of your garden.

Garden vignettes

The other key design component is size. Of course, your project does not need to address all of your outdoor space. Especially if you intend to create a more intimate space, consider focusing on a smaller area to create a “secret garden” vignette.

First, use screens to seclude one part of your garden. The “screen” can be anything, such as a brick wall, a hedge, a plant wall made from upcycled pallets or even an espalier — a fruit tree secured to a trellis, then shaped to grow flat against it. Farmers originally developed espalier to supply the most possible sunlight to every branch, thus producing more fruit sooner. Though the espalier process can take around five years to reach maturity, the end product is beautiful, unique and delicious. If you want the “wall of green” with less time and toil, consider a lattice partition or pergola with climbing plants, such as honeysuckle, climbing roses or clematis. Alternatively, pick a corner of your garden and section it off with large planters. Once you have your “secret garden” spot, all you need to do is add some seating, like a bench, a few Adirondack chairs or even outdoor floor cushions.

Outdoor décor

Whether your garden is meant to be a functional or simply fun space, make sure it’s reflective of your style. Selecting plants and outdoor furniture is an easy way to accomplish this, but consider adding some uniquely “outdoor” design components: statuary and water features.

Garden art, sculptures and decorations can take your garden to the next level by centering a small garden and creating points of interest in a larger one, like a focal point in a courtyard or at the end of a path. Second, garden statues don’t need to be the dramatic statement pieces we see in public gardens, nor are they limited to the classic deer and gnomes. Instead, pick what you like; a favorite animal or aesthetic can become a beloved garden art feature. You can choose a prominent piece, like a classical bust to bring some contrast to a group of evergreen shrubs or a pair of sitting dogs to add some personality to an entrance; or something more understated, like a small concrete rabbit climbing into a planter pot or some dragonfly-topped iron plant supports that are both practical and add interest to a flower bed or herb garden.

Another great place for garden art is around a water feature. For a naturalistic touch, add statues of animals and birds that

naturally drink from the pond, such as a concrete turtle or bronze heron. To add a bit more whimsy, consider a statue fountain, like a stone fish or a lion with water coming out of its mouth. If you’re looking for a simpler, quieter feature, start with a small pond or fountain and then branch out as you see fit, adding rocks, plants and koi or goldfish. If you do want to add fish, remember to add them last, since living in a construction site may disturb them.

Water features provide a unique opportunity to add water plants to your garden, such as water hyacinth, pickerel and, of course, water lilies. Adding plants at the sides of your pond or fountain is also an option and, though mosquitoes do not breed in moving water as easily, you may also want to add some mosquito repellent plants like Ceylon citronella grass, geraniums, lemon balm, lavender, marigolds, catnip, rosemary and allium. But remember, citronella, marigolds and geraniums are toxic for pets, so be sure it grows in an area your pet cannot reach.

With warm summer days ahead, now is the time to spruce up your outdoor space. Getting creative in your garden isn’t much different from getting creative inside — just make your space suit your needs and desires! ✦

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS IN 2023

Reach more customers through strategic marketing with HOME magazine and WLNI

As you plan your marketing strategy, meet with us to reach a wider audience with HOME magazine and WLNI. These two mediums offer a unique way to bundle your messages to reach a larger audience in different ways. Both are hyper local, focusing ads and content to our local community, and both are targeted to adults with the disposable income to afford your products and services.

“Arthur’s Jewelry has advertised on WLNI for many years. In our package we create traditional 30- and 60-second spots in addition to the spotlight features and live call ins when we are in Antwerp Belgium on diamond buying trips. The WLNI listener is a very engaged listener. As a talk radio station, the listener does not channel surf during commercials because they don’t want to miss the programming. When James River Media bought HOME magazine, we jumped on board because we knew it would continue as the first class operation I know them to be. I have very few other advertising media in which our customers tell us by name that they came to our store because they like what they heard or read on WLNI and HOME magazine.”

Jim Messier Arthur’s Jewelry

“We have people all the time come into the store and say ‘oh I meant to come in but I heard you on the radio and so I turned around to come back in’ … and we have results right there that people are telling us right away which is very unheard of for any of our advertising.

HOME magazine is great because it is so inclusive of small businesses in the area which we love and really value. We have people all the time that we go into their homes, and they have stacks of HOME magazine sitting around, and they will pull them out and say ‘I saw this in HOME magazine and I want it to look like this.’ It’s something that people hold on to; it’s something they bring in and show us – and yes we see results from it all the time.

The staff at JRM is super accommodating. If we need help designing an ad or coming up with the verbiage, they are great at that – we feel like it’s a great fit for our store.”

Ashley Hilbish Curtains, Blinds & Bath

While HOME magazine allows you to SHOW potential customers your products and services, WLNI offers you the ability to TELL your story in your own voice.

Let’s partner to boost your business! And you can experience success like Arthur’s Jewelry, Curtains, Blinds & Bath, Servus Capital Management and Terry Auto Group.

“Financial Advising is a very competitive industry, and I needed to find a way to promote my unique investment philosophy to a highly educated, high income earning demographic. I chose WLNI because it gives me the ability to truly educate and inform its audience on what sets me apart from other advisors. The results have been fantastic over the last 2 years – so much so that I recently added HOME magazine to my marketing plan. HOME reaches a similar audience in a different way – and truly compliments the message I have been getting out on WLNI. The ability to layer my marketing strategy in these two different outlets, while being able to coordinate it all with the great team at James River Media has allowed me to focus on my business while they handle many of my marketing needs and most importantly continue to help my business grow.”

Allan Malina Servus Capital Management

“As we all know, it’s very hard sometimes to measure the return on our advertising. However, in my 31 years here at Terry Auto Group, I have found that consistency and covering multiple sources of advertising is the key for us. We started advertising ‘Deal of the Day’ on WLNI over 13 years ago. We have remained a consistent advertiser with them ever since. We have also been in every issue of HOME magazine for approximately the last 8 years. I consistently hear from folks who say ‘we heard your ads on the radio’ or ‘we love your magazine ads.’ There is no doubt in my mind that the combination of radio and magazine exposure from James River Media has improved my business. I look forward to supporting them as well as them supporting my business for many years to come.”

Mark Dalton GM/VP Terry Auto Group

We had a huge magnolia tree removed and he came the same day to grind the stump. He was fast and did a great job of removing the stump and large roots. We highly recommend him and will definitely call again for any future jobs. Extremely professional work and the price was great!

- Marie G.

Get Your Financial House in Order

HOW TO NAVIGATE AN UNCERTAIN

ECONOMY

BY KATHERINE FULGHUM KNOPF

The financial markets have experienced unpredictable swings in the last two years. Grocery, utility and gas prices continue to rise. After months of negative wage growth, supply chain disruptions and rising inflation, many people feel frustrated that their money isn’t going as far. With no calm in sight, many feel tired of being financially stretched. Rather than despair, now is a good time to review your finances and get your house in order in case of a recession. Setting a budget and sticking to it may sound punitive, but it can be actually quite freeing.

Make a plan

Allan Malina of Servus Capital Management suggests establishing goals then creating a budget. “Write down all your monthly expenses and write down your main goals in life. What do you want to achieve this year — a better vacation, a new couch, a new car?”

Once your targets are on paper, review your expenses and see what you can cut.

Do you want to take on a second, part-time job or find it in your budget? Take-out food, specialty coffees, magazine subscriptions, phone apps and gym memberships are often items that eat up large parts of your take-home pay. You may be able to eliminate some of these costly daily habits and save those funds over the next year. It is a matter of prioritizing what is most important to you and your family, then allocating resources.

“Budgets create freedom for people to plan their life,” Malina explains. “Most people do not like budgets; they think they are life chains. Setting goals and watching expenses actually allows splurging on items like vacations, buying a new couch, or saving for a car.” It may also lead to enjoying an anxiety-free retirement.

Interestingly, data shows that the 2022 luxury market exploded despite a decline in overall retail sales. People are cutting back on specialty brands at the grocery store, shopping for hygiene necessities in bulk and buying fewer clothes in order to indulge in one exceptional luxury item, a special evening out or a getaway. Experiences are in high demand.

A downturn opportunity

Cash is king, so now is the time to keep some extra funds for purchasing items you want that others must sell. A downturn can provide the “opportunity to buy big ticket items such as cars, ATVs, couches and collectables that people are discounting or liquidating,” Malina suggests. It is often a good time to buy

distressed investments such as real estate and collectables. As Warren Buffet says, “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.”

Put off big expenditures that are not necessities that have an interest rate tied to them until rates improve. Higher interest rates make borrowing more expensive.

You could pay more than an item is really worth over time. Another caveat: Using credit may be tempting for points or rewards, but it can cause you to overspend.

The inflation challenge

Inflation fatigue and watching the value of your money erode can cause

anxiety and depression. It is best to manage expectations of your finances by sticking to your budget and your plan. “A budget helps you identify places you overspend,” says Malina. Replace expensive entertainment with low or no-cost recreation. Be creative and find new hobbies for your free time. Look for alternative forms of enjoyment; try out some activities that do not require large expenditures. Instead of going out to the movies, invite friends over for drinks and a game night. Pack snacks and take the family to the park for a walk or tennis match. Challenge yourself and your friends to complete a series of hikes or learn a foreign language. Create a family activity contest. Everyone needs to eat so make dinner time a competition to cook the best but least expensive meal a few nights a week.

Don’t obsess over watching the returns in your investment accounts. You should check them periodically during an annual review. If you consume your thoughts with financial anxiety, it can cause unnecessary distress. You don’t want marital problems or depression because of your portfolio. If your investments are causing you to lose sleep, make an adjustment. ✦

Quick tips for uncertain times

• Focus on yourself and your family.

• Set goals around things that matter.

Listen to The HOME Show each Saturday morning at 9 a.m. or Sunday at noon on WLNI as HOME Editor Donna Dunn and Rich Roth along with HOME Publisher Trish Roth and Producer

Ashley Schamerhorn bring HOME to life with a host of local experts and friends.

The HOME Show will feature interior design trends, home maintenance tips, gardening ideas, delicious recipes and more!

• Maintain your health.

• Economize on everyday expenses so you can splurge on what you most want.

Tune in weekly for the Southern Landscape Group’s Outdoor Scoop, where we’ll discuss all things lawn, garden, pool and al fresco life!

Historic Garden Week Get inspired!

This year’s Historic Garden Week tour in Lynchburg features five private homes and gardens located in the Rivermont Avenue and Boonsboro Road area. Camp Kum-Ba-Yah, a 47-acre natural play and education space nearby, will offer conservation instruction, nature walks and reserved lunches as part of this tour. Admission to the tour includes entrance to these five private residences:

105 LEE CIRCLE

Owners: Catherine and Mike Madden

Penrose Stout designed this Normaninfluenced Tudor Revival home in 1924. The home features special touches such as Flemish bond brick, a steeply pitched part copper roof and stately chimneys. The owners have replanted boxwood parterres originally created by Pat Leggett, a former owner and President of the Garden Club of Virginia, laid between pea gravel paths accentuating intricate design work at the entry. Note the custom millwork in various rooms, complementing the fireplaces. In keeping with the period of the home, the owners added a marble kitchen and a great room with a 16-foot vaulted, cathedral ceiling with exposed beams. French doors and generous windows overlook the owners’ recently renovated extensive gardens. Spring blooming plants and hydrangeas accentuate the bluestone hardscape. This home was previously featured during Historic Garden Week in 1980 and 2000.

3820 SHERINGHAM PLACE

Owners: Suzanne and Stephen Johnson

Renovated in 2017, Aubrey Chesterman designed this Tudor Revival home in 1925. Boxwoods and English Hornbeam accent a welcoming circular drive. The design elements of the exterior of the home are of particular interest. Inside, the owners’ selection of soft white paint enhances their remarkable art collection. Triple crown molding, enormous fireplaces, mullioned windows, multiple French doors and original brass fixtures are highlights. Located in the small office area are watercolors of the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris by artist Theodore Turner. The garden along the side of the house hosts an array of native plants and includes roses from the Old City Cemetery.

Tuesday

April 18, 2023

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1050 GREENWAY COURT

Owners: Lea and Billy Barksdale

Built in 1965 for Mr. Barksdale’s grandparents, this traditional home has been transformed by the family to be uniquely their own. The owners have filled the interior and exterior with objects of fine and decorative art. A central gathering place is the English-style kitchen. Picture windows in the den showcase evergreens, peonies and hydrangea. Not to miss are bookplates of “Sleeping Beauty” and other fairy tales from Old French books along with an illustration of Rabbit Hill by Mrs. Barksdale’s uncle, Robert Lawson. Mrs. Barksdale’s bold, abstract art is also displayed in the home. The owners enjoy maintaining the jasmine trellis on the front and patio side of the house. Boxwoods and pergola at the bluestone side porch further contribute to a tranquil setting. This house was last featured on Historic Garden Week in 2011.

206 SAINT JAMES PLACE

Owners: Karen and Michael Owen

This lovely townhome is the ideal setting for the owners’ downsized lifestyle. The traditional exterior belies a delightful interior renovated in 2019. Vibrant artwork from local artists accents the formal living and dining spaces. Colorful textiles and wallpaper adds to the charm and warmth of the interior. The owners have maximized the living spaces with a creative renovation of the kitchen. A sunny main level master bedroom and new marble bath are perfect for the owners’ new lifestyle. The spacious deck, brimming with seasonal flowers and herbs extends the main level living space and is a favorite spot to enjoy the mountain view.

LYNCHBURG TOUR

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMANDA SMITHSON

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE GARDEN CLUB OF VIRGINIA

105 LEE CIRCLE

3820 SHERINGHAM PLACE

1050 GREENWAY COURT

206 SAINT JAMES PLACE

CAMP KUM-BA-YAH 4415 BOONSBORO ROAD

Nestled in 47 acres of urban forest, Camp Kum-Ba-Yah is a naturalized play and educational space for public enjoyment. Founder Reverend Bev Cosby recognized the need for a safe outdoor haven for children during the summer months. The nonprofit day camp, organized in 1950, has evolved to include many year-round programs focusing on outdoor educational programs for pre-k and elementary school children. Throughout the year the camp offers hiking, fishing and outdoor classrooms encouraging children and families to learn through nature. Blue Ridge Conservation will supply information on native plants, pollinators and chemical-free yards, and local vendors will have plants and gardening products available for purchase.

114 CRAFTSMAN WAY

Owners: Gail and J. Wayne Harris

Built in 2017, this home and garden accommodates the owners’ new downsized lifestyle. According to the Craftsman design concept, the home has steeply pitched roofs with gables, and the exterior incorporates stone and board. A collection of local art, including pieces by the owner, are displayed throughout the home. Of special note is the John Wayne room that pays homage to the famous actor. Visitors will enjoy the display of framed Historic Garden Week lunch boxes painted by local artists, which is a unique feature of the Lynchburg tour. Other interesting features include prints and watercolors from travels, an antique box collection and a vintage Tole chandelier. The back porch is a comfortable spot to enjoy the artfully designed gardens. ✦

114 CRAFTSMAN WAY

CAMP KUM-BA-YAH