Roanoke Valley HOME Magazine 2021 Feb/Mar

HOME R OA N O K E VA L L E Y

signs of spring

design ✦ improve ✦ garden ✦ live

AT HOME

cutting cable outdoor heaters

UPDATE, UPGRADE basement makeovers wood accents

COLOR POPS!

paint trends early-season blooms EARLY SPRING 2021

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R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E E a r l y S p r i n g 2 0 2 1

CONTENTS Roanoke Valley HOME Early Spring 2021 PROJECT: NATIONAL POOLS

30

24

56

features

showcase home

STAY COOL WITH A POOL Budget and plan for a swimming pool

HOME FOR LIFE Family home renovated with universal design

24

BY CHRISTY RIPPEL

30

36

BY NOELLE MILAM

COLOR YOUR WORLD Hot paint colors for 2021 and where to use them

BY KENDALL ATKINS LIVICK

56

LOVE THE LOWER LEVEL Basement renovations create more space for fun

BY JANE RENNYSON

36

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E A R LY S PR I NG 2021

DESIGN

14 THE WARMTH OF WOOD

Incorporate wood accents for custom interiors

BY RORY RHODES

64 MIRROR MAGIC

Add style and dimension to any space

BY AMELIA POORE

IMPROVE

64

53 COZY UP OUTSIDE

All you need to know about outdoor heaters

BY MARGIE LIPPARD

62 CUT THE CORD

Watch your favorite shows without cable

BY PAULA PETERS CHAMBERS

GARDEN

18 BRING ON SPRING!

Forcing blooms brings nature, color inside

53

18

BY BECKY CALVERT

50 FOLIAGE FANCY

Houseplants for every interior

BY MITZI BIBLE

LIVE

21 PLANT-BASED PROTEINS

Ideas for meatless meals

BY SLOANE LUCAS

46 COMFORT FOOD FOR TWO (OR MORE)

Individual servings make easy, cozy dinners

BY MARSHA GALE

46 8

R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E E a r l y S p r i n g 2 0 2 1

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Open Every Day except Wednesday. Visit us 24/7 Online. www.GrandHomeFurnishings.com r vhomemaga zine .com 9

EDITOR’S note We made it! Here we are in the second month of a new year. Never have I been so happy to hang a new calendar! 2021 promises a return to living the life we love provided we stay the course regarding the recommended guidelines and protocols.

As you continue to spend more time outdoors, staying warm is fundamental. Our article on outdoor heaters will keep you comfortable and cozy through the coldest season. Inside, learn how to best tackle a basement renovation. Is it a home gym, schoolroom, rec room, or mother-in-law/college student suite you require? Figure out how best to utilize and renovate this additional square footage in your home. This Early Spring issue features the Steffe home.

This family home has undergone several iterations through the years and the most recent renovations mean the Steffes can stay at home for many more years to come. A new year means new colors for the home! HOME offers a sampling of the hottest colors for 2021—a great place to start when you are trying to pick from the literally endless colors available.

We all love to be outside, but during the coldest darkest days, we will likely be hunkering down indoors. Glancing around your interior spaces, take inventory of the decorative accents in your home. Upgrade texture and warmth with exposed wood beams and wood accents. The choices are many: mantels, corbels, and wainscoting. Capture light and visually expand a room with the addition of a mirror. Learn how to pick the right one for your space. Every room should have something alive in it (beyond the couch potato or furry friend). Houseplants add color and

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texture and contribute to healthier air quality in your home, so get growing!

Television and live streaming are a huge part of our indoor entertainment lineup year round, though letting go of that cable subscription can seem daunting. HOME examines options available to make a clean and painless break with cable TV. Still feeling full from holiday over-indulgences? Our article on meatless meal staples may help you become more adventurous in your meal planning as you learn about vegan/vegetarian protein options like tofu and tempeh. Or start planning a special diningin Valentine’s dinner with upscale comfort food recipes plus a festive pink drink to make your Valentine blush!

As you read through this Early Spring issue we hope you feel the warmth and comfort of HOME. Hang tight and whatever the weather, stay safe, be kind and be well.

As always, thank you for reading, Anne Marie Poore annemarie@westwillowpublishing.com

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HOME ROANOKE VALLEY

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 1 PUBLISHER Julie Pierce EDITOR Meridith Ingram ART DIRECTOR Edwana Coleman LOCAL EDITOR Anne Marie Poore

FEATURE HOME CONTRIBUTOR Noelle Milam CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mitzi Bible Becky Calvert Paula Peters Chambers Marsha Gale Margie Lippard Kendall Atkins Livick Sloane Lucas Noelle Milam Amelia Poore Jane Rennyson Rory Rhodes Christy Rippel PHOTOGRAPHER Kevin Hurley GRAPHIC DESIGNER Donna Collins

magnolia

OPERATIONS MANAGER Marianne Schatvet ADVERTISING SALES Julia Belvin Lisa Bowers Anne Marie Poore SUBSCRIPTIONS

Roanoke Valley HOME is published five times annually

by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For an annual subscription, please send $20 and your name, address and telephone number to: Roanoke Valley HOME 2003 Graves Mill Road, Suite B, Forest, VA 24551 For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@westwillowpublishing.com. To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Roanoke Valley HOME at info@westwillowpublishing.com.

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Copyright 2021 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned. As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.

The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

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EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

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r vhomemaga zine .com 13

DESIGN wood accents

THE WARMTH OF WOOD add custom style to home interiors

BY RORY RHODE S

Wood features have warmed our homes for centuries. Whether log walls or ornate paneling, plank or polished hardwood floors, utilitarian or intricately carved furnishings, the mellow richness of wood enhances our interiors. We’re more than accustomed to wood flooring and furniture, but there are other ways to use wood accents in your home design. Adding a wood architectural element can create a pleasing focal point which adds distinctive style to your home.

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Walls

Traditional wainscoting in the form of raised panel, tongue and groove, and board and batten adds a delightful custom touch to any home and works with a variety of decor styles, from traditional to farmhouse to Arts and Crafts. In recent years, shiplap, with its long horizontal planks, has been a hot trend for accent walls.

Beyond these staples, there are new ways to think about old favorites. Try imparting a modern feel by going big. A grid of large wooden squares or oversized rectangular panels is a stunning design element, but make sure your space is large enough so that the design isn’t overpowering or out of scale with the rest of the room.

Framing

You can also use wood to delineate spaces and frame out architectural details. A wide entry between rooms can be highlighted with wood beams instead of standard molding. If your home has load-bearing components such as lintels or columns, covering them in an eye-catching wood cladding can turn a necessity into a feature. It’s a good trick to warm up a finished basement, which can sometimes seem a bit sterile without natural light. Offset the richness of the wood with crisp white walls for a thoroughly bright and inviting space.

Don’t forget to watch where you walk. Homes with step-downs between rooms can benefit from a wood detail on the transition. Any potentially awkward architectural features can be turned into a focal point with the addition of a custom wood detail.

Ceiling

Wood ceiling beams can really set the tone in the right room. But be careful: Unless your home is on the National Register of Historic Places, heavy beams on a standard 8-foot ceiling are likely going to feel oppressive and out of place. Save this feature for large, airy rooms with good light and high or vaulted ceilings, where their weight will help ground a soaring space. This look pairs particularly well with contrasting textures, such as a fireplace of stone or exposed brick.

Fireplace

A chunky length of reclaimed or rough-finished wood makes a pleasing mantel, and is an attractive way to delineate the space between fireplace and a wall-mounted TV. If you have wall space on either side of the hearth, consider adding thick floating wood shelves to frame the fireplace and provide a venue for objets d’art.

Room divider

Midcentury modern design frequently delineated an open floor plan with the judicious use of a r vhomemaga zine .com 15

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partial wooden screen. The key to making this look fabulous versus dated is to stick to clean, bold lines and shapes. Keep the same pattern going from floor to ceiling, and choose a design that allows light to pass through and a view to the other side.

Think of this kind of room divider as a statement piece as much as an architectural element.

Kitchen

If your kitchen has stained wood cabinetry, offsetting it with other finishes such as stainless steel and natural stone will keep it aesthetically balanced. But if your cabinets are white or another painted color, wood accents add an inviting touch. Consider pairing painted cabinetry with butcher block counters or wood panels around an island. Open shelving made of thick wood slabs is a stylish counterpoint against a tiled backsplash. A range hood clad in reclaimed lumber adds an unexpected detail.

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R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E E a r l y S p r i n g 2 0 2 1

Door + Stairs

For a midcentury welcome, jazz up a plain front door by adding fretwork. Make a statement on your staircase by replacing a traditional balustrade with floor-to-ceiling vertical wooden posts. Keep the lines clean and geometric for maximum “wow” effect.

The best part about custom wood details (besides their design impact) is how well they can be incorporated into a variety of decors. Traditional dwellings gain a sense of opulence and luster from detailed millwork. Cottage and farmhouse spaces gain charm through horizontal planks and reclaimed or rustic wood accents.

Midcentury digs can up their energy with geometric details and shapes. Modern homes with sleek lines and concrete flooring are warmed by organic wood elements.

Whichever style is yours, there’s a wood accent waiting to bring your space to life. ✦

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GARDEN early-spring blooms

forcing blooms

bring early spring inside B Y B E C K Y C A LV E R T

With most plants sitting dormant this time of year, the winter months can be short on freshly cut garden flowers to add a burst of color to your home. Thankfully, in a process known as “forcing,� you can remedy this while also addressing some of your late-winter pruning.

Many spring-blooming trees and shrubs set their flower buds during the previous growing season. After six to eight weeks of cold temperatures (generally below 40 degrees), the blooms are ready to move out of dormancy with just a little push of warmth and moisture. By bringing branches trimmed from these early bloomers indoors, you can force them to bloom earlier than they would on their own outdoors with just a little bit of effort.

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Branches that are a half-inch or less in width are best suited to forcing. To start, you’ll need sharp hand pruners. The process is best done on milder days when the temperatures are above freezing. While you’re out there, don’t forget to trim off the old and dead wood; this is a great opportunity to get your pruning done.

Select branches with a large number of flower buds; these are usually the younger branches. Flower buds can be easily confused with leaf buds, but keep in mind flower buds are larger and rounder than leaf buds. You can always gently open the buds to look for the various flower and leaf parts to confirm what’s what. Cut the branches longer than they need to be; you’ll be trimming them again once inside, and should continue to trim them as needed to keep them fresher longer. Cut a few more than you think you’ll need, as not all the branches will necessarily burst forth in flowers.

Bring your branches inside and place them in water; somewhere around room temperature is good. It used to be suggested that smashing the ends of the branches helped them absorb more water, but that practice isn’t helpful if they are too damaged. Instead, after ensuring your branches are cut at a 45-degree angle, make a slit about an inch long in the bottom of the stem, which helps them take up the necessary water. Be sure to remove the lateral branches that could touch water, so the main stem can focus on blooming. They’ll want to be out of direct sunlight, with a daily misting and water changed every two to three days to ensure freshness. You can keep the stems in a bucket in a cool room until they start to open up. Then it’s time to bring them in and put them on display, where you can watch the blooming process over the weeks it takes them to open.

The list of what you can force to bloom is long and changes every few weeks, making the practice one to do with everything growing in your yard.

Cut various branches at various times for a succession of blooms and color until warmth is here to stay! Branches to bring indoors into February include forsythia, witch hazel, cherry, Cornelia cherry, Bradford pear, fothergilla, red maple, quince, serviceberry, willow, apple and crabapple, dogwood, magnolia, azalea and rhododendron. As the calendar drifts into March, lilac, oak and mock orange join the list of candidates for forcing inside.

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Some plants take longer than others to bloom. Forsythia can generally be forced to bloom in about a week, while dogwoods can take up to five weeks. If the blooms do not appear to be getting larger, you can always cut a few more and try again. The secret is to not let them get above 70 degrees while also keeping them moist.

These little bits of early spring can be used dramatically inside in a variety of vases and arrangements, but keep in mind that the blooms will add a bit of weight to the branches. You’ll want your vases to keep the arrangement anchored. Generally, the rule of thumb for flower arrangements is a ratio of two to one, where the arrangement is twice as tall (and wide) as your base. You don’t have to follow that rule precisely, but make sure the balance is there so that the arrangement is pleasing to the eye. Flowering branches have a slightly wild appearance to them, so they are a case of “less is more.” Plan on about three to five stems per vessel for maximum punch.

With the sweet reward of early spring flowers, the process of forcing blooms to open is an easy one that also gives gardeners an excuse to wander their gardens on those sunny but chilly days. And what gardener doesn’t love both those ideas? ✦ R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E E a r l y S p r i n g 2 0 2 1

LIVE plant-based proteins

PLANT-BASED POWER PROTEINS FOR MEATLESS MEALS

BY S LOA N E LU C A S

Have you heard about the latest food trend? Meatless Mondays have gone mainstream. According to Vegetarian Times, some 22.8 million people in the United States are eating a “vegetarian-inclined” diet, meaning they are eating more meatless (and chickenless, and fishless) meals. There’s even a new generation of plant-based burgers available at fast food restaurants and plant-based sausages at pizza chains, and they’re so similar to beef that people often can’t tell the difference.

One question everyone seems to ask about meatless meals: “But what about protein?” Don’t worry. According to Mayo Clinic, people are eating almost twice as much protein as they need. Adult men need about 56 grams a day while adult women need about 46 grams a day—and all of that can be obtained through plant-based options, including grains, beans and, yes, even vegetables. r vhomemaga zine .com 21

There are usually three reasons people cite for choosing to go meatless: respect for animals, preservation of resources for the environment, and health concerns over consuming animal meat and byproducts.

However, there are some differences worth noting. Here are some common definitions that might help navigate a plant-based culinary journey.

VEGAN: The term vegan is reserved for those who don’t eat anything that derives from animals. This includes any meat from any animal (land or sea) or byproducts, such as eggs. Vegans also don’t drink (or eat cheese made from) animal-derived milk, believing that baby cows are the only animals that should be drinking their mothers’ milk.

Vegans will also often not eat honey, since that’s supposed to be for the hard-working bees who make it.

VEGETARIAN: Vegetarians will not eat anything that involves killing an animal, so they will eat eggs, milk, and cheese, but nothing that was alive. (Truly committed vegans and vegetarians will also not wear or use leather, silk or other products for which animals are killed.)

PLANT-BASED: Usually this indicates a fully plant-based diet, without any animal meat or byproducts, but is also often used as a term for people who choose this path for health reasons.

WHOLE FOOD PLANT BASED (WFPB): A more regimented form of plant-based diet, someone on a WFPB diet would avoid processed foods and would instead cook from scratch using unprocessed ingredients. So, while a vegan or vegetarian might embrace Beyond burgers, a WFPB dieter would make a black bean burger from scratch.

Many WFPB diets also decline to use oil, which is considered by some to be a processed food.

PLANT-FORWARD OR FLEXITARIAN: A diet heavy in vegetables, fruits, grains and other non-animal foods, but also a diet that might include animal-derived foods.

2 2

Making vegetables and plant-based proteins the star of your culinary show provides for amazingly delicious meals that are also fiber-rich and nutrient-dense. Interested in trying some plantbased proteins that are easy on the wallet and fun to cook? Here’s a rundown of options available right in your neighborhood supermarket.

Tofu

Tofu is the grand dame of all plant-based proteins. Its origins date back to 2,000 BC, and it is a staple of multiple cultures across Asia. One rather illustrative way to describe tofu is as fresh soybean cheese, when soybeans are processed into soymilk, which is then curdled. It comes ready-to-cook in a range of forms, from silken, which is the softest form, to super firm, which is a dense block that resembles Indian paneer cheese, Mexican queso fresco, or farmers cheese.

Some tofu, like firm or extra firm, will benefit from being pressed to remove excess water. You can buy a fancy tofu press for this, or just put it on a plate lined with paper towels and put a cast iron pan (or something similarly heavy) on top, to squeeze out extra moisture.

Because it’s a blank slate, tofu can be dressed up in countless ways. Silken tofu can be the base of sweet puddings and pies or savory dips and sauces. Harder forms can be cubed, marinated, sautéed, grilled, or used as a substitute for paneer in Indian dishes. You can even scramble tofu for an eggless breakfast burrito.

Different types of tofu provide different amounts of protein, from silken tofu, which is about 4 grams per 3-ounce serving, to super firm, which provides 11 grams per 3-ounce serving. You can even buy protein-enriched tofu which can reach 14 grams per 3-ounce serving.

(It offers additional calorie benefits over its competitors as well. A ½-cup serving of firm tofu contains 94 calories, while a comparable amount of ground beef contains 331 calories.) Due to the relatively low carbohydrate count, this is also suitable for people on a low-carb diet.

Alternative non-soy tofu

Because soy is a top-eight allergen, some

companies have been creating and marketing niche versions of soy-free tofu. One of the more popular ones is Pumfu, made from pumpkin seeds. This is really hard to find, so you will likely need to order online.

Tempeh

Tempeh is another soy-based product that also has a storied history, thought to have originated in Indonesia several centuries ago. Tempeh is very different from its cousin, tofu, in that it’s far less processed. Essentially, tempeh is soybeans pressed together to form a dense block, then fermented. It doesn’t have a pickled taste though; it can be very neutral, with a slight nutty taste, and can absorb myriad flavors based on what you are cooking. It is also sometimes made with added grains.

Tempeh can be cooked right out of the package, but will have a strong, earthy taste. For more neutral results, steam it before using in recipes. Because of the low carbohydrate count, it’s also suitable for people on a low-carb diet.

Tempeh provides about 16 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving.

Seitan

This is a gluten-based protein that aficionados and fans have immeasurable fun cooking from scratch and experimenting with. The base for this is wheat gluten—ergo, wholly unsuitable for someone with celiac or gluten intolerance, but fantastic for people with a soy allergy.

Seitan is made by making a dense dough of vital wheat gluten, water or stock, and whatever herbs, spices and seasonings you prefer. It’s extremely low in fat, and it’s almost all protein, making it suitable for a low-carb diet.

Depending on how you spice and season it, you can make all sorts of mock meats, including gyros, corned “beef,” and faux-chicken. The easiest way to make your own is to buy vital wheat gluten and season accordingly before you add wet ingredients, form into a loaf, and steam. Then, you can grill, sauté or pan-fry for a multitude of recipes. You can get some ideas for basic recipes from cookbooks and websites.

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the company makes from fermented soybeans.

Because FDA required Impossible to test its heme ingredient on animals before releasing to the public, many vegans eschew this brand, so it is generally considered vegetarian instead of vegan.

However, the ingredients are vegan.

Per 4-ounce serving, Impossible has 19 grams of protein and Beyond has 18 grams of protein.

However, they also come with fat and sodium. So if you are going meat-free for health reasons, these may not be the best option for you.

If you want ease of use, head to the freezer section of your local supermarket. Some longstanding brands have provided shoppers with fantastic options way before Beyond and Impossible emerged on the scene. Morningstar Farms and Gardein can be found in almost every supermarket freezer section and offer everything from fauxmeatballs to “bacon” strips to “chick’n” nuggets.

However, you can also buy ready-to-cook brands like Upton and Field Roast at the grocery store.

Seitan made with 1 ounce of vital wheat gluten provides a whopping 21 grams of protein. Storebought will have higher fat content and calories, but will also be high in protein.

Beyond vs. Impossible

First there was Pepsi and Coca-Cola. Now there’s Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods. These two competitors go head-to-head in both consumer and commercial competition, in that you can buy both in supermarkets or order them off popular restaurant menus, like Impossible Whoppers at Burger King and Beyond sausage on Pizza Hut pizzas.

Both of them make products that can easily stand in for ground beef in recipes as diverse as burgers and meatloaf to shepherd’s pie and tacos.

And they also offer options like bratwurst, Italian sausages, and breakfast sausages.

Their products are so similar to beef, pork and chicken; some people really can’t tell the difference.

They are, however, very different in composition.

Beyond is soy-free, and mostly pea-based, deriving its red meat-like hue from beets. Impossible is made with soy protein, so, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for people with soy allergies. Impossible derives a beef-like flavor from “heme,” a protein

MAKING VEGETABLES AND PLANT-BASED PROTEINS THE STAR OF YOUR CULINARY SHOW PROVIDES FOR AMAZINGLY DELICIOUS MEALS THAT ARE ALSO FIBER-RICH AND NUTRIENT-DENSE.

Whatever plant-based protein you choose, have fun and experiment. Buy some plant-based cookbooks, search for creative recipes online, search the product websites for recipe ideas, or simply sub in something like Beyond meat for ground beef in a favorite recipe. It’s easy and fun to incorporate some plant-based power into your everyday meals. ✦

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stay cool

WITH YOUR OWN POOL

PROJECT: NATIONAL POOLS

PLAN FOR A POOL THAT FITS YOUR FAMILY AND BUDGET

BY CHRIST Y RIPPEL

W

hen the hot days hit, it’s heavenly to have a backyard oasis—a spot to take a dip, catch some sun, swim some laps or cannonball into the deep end. Pools today have more available features than ever before, to suit a variety of budgets and lifestyles. If you’re considering adding one to your property, some careful thought about how you’ll use it now and in the future will ensure that your pool functions well for your family for years to come.

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Jason Vaughan, vice president of sales and new construction for National Pools in Roanoke, says his company has seen an uptick in requests for pools. “COVID has created a backlog we have never seen in 43 years in business,” he says. “We are running on close to a year-long backlog, when typically the process from initial consultation takes a couple of months, and most pool projects take around three to four months to complete once construction has started.”

While COVID-19 has upped the demand for pools and backyard recreation areas, the appeal of a pool extends beyond the current era of social distancing. Read on for advice on what to consider, and how to plan for your own pool installation.

What’s your budget?

In-ground pools are an expensive endeavor, any way you cut it. According to Homeguide.com, the average cost of a pool is $35,000, with most people paying between $28,000 and $55,000, depending on the type of pool and degree of customization. A larger concrete or gunite pool costs $60,000 or more, and that cost often does not include related expenses, such as landscaping, hardscaping, fencing and pool accessories, like covers and automatic pool cleaners.

“If access to the property is limited, or the site is very sloped, it can increase the budget dramatically,” says Vaughan. “There have been very few sites that we’ve seen where a pool cannot be built, it’s just a question of whether the budget will allow it if things like retaining walls have to be constructed.”

As for obtaining a design for your pool, you have two options: hire an architect to create your pool and have a pool company execute the vision, or hire a design/build pool company to do both.

Typically, the design/build route will save on your budget, as design cost is included in the price, but an architect will incur a separate fee. However, both an architect and pool company will likely provide a free on-site visit to discuss your property and the feasibility of your pool dreams.

PROJECT: NATIONAL POOLS

Types of in-ground pools

PROJECT: NATIONAL POOLS

There are three main types of in-ground pools—vinyl-lined, fiberglass and concrete or gunite. Typically, vinyl-lined are the cheapest to install, followed by fiberglass, and then concrete/gunite. A vinyl pool has a custom-made sheet of

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vinyl between the water and the pool structure, and this liner must be replaced every six to 12 years. Heat, weather changes, and how well you care for the pool will impact the longevity; plan about $4,000 for a new liner. However, a vinyl pool is not as porous as the plaster finish on a concrete pool, which means vinyl-lined pools use less chemicals, and therefore your chemical costs are lower by approximately 25 percent.

A fiberglass pool has a higher initial cost than a vinyl-lined pool, but won’t incur the maintenance costs of a new liner down the road. Fiberglass pools are a one-piece shell constructed offsite. They cannot be customized, which is a drawback, but are available in many shapes and sizes. The material is durable and non-porous, and the look of a fiberglass pool has come a long way since the initial models decades ago, which critics said resembled oversized bathtubs. Colored finishes, spas, water features and other options are now available for fiberglass pools.

The traditional high-end pool is a concrete or gunite pool.

Gunite is pneumatically applied concrete, which means it is pumped through a hose at high velocity, which creates a material

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PROJECT: NATIONAL POOLS

that is stronger than traditional cast-in-place concrete. Gunite has been used in swimming pool construction for more than 40 years, and is the only type of pool that National Pools installs.

However, the terms “concrete” and “gunite” are sometimes used interchangeably, so clarify with any pool contractor you consult.

A concrete pool is constructed by pouring concrete over steel rods to create the shell of the pool, which is then finished with other materials, such as plaster; gunite is constructed by pumping the material over the shell. A concrete/gunite pool is fully customizable in shape and size to fit your property. A concrete pool requires more maintenance than fiberglass, but can last 50 years or more with proper care, including cleaning and attention to chemical maintenance. A concrete pool will need to be resurfaced approximately 10 to 15 years after installation, which can cost $10,000 or more, depending on pool size. Typically, water line tile is replaced during this process as well.

You may have to consult with several pool companies to explore the options, as many specialize in only one type of pool and may not give you a balanced assessment of each.

Features to consider

If you live in Florida or Texas, you may not need a pool heater, but in Virginia most pool owners want to invest in one in order to enjoy a longer pool season. Other increasingly popular options are automation for lights, salt chlorination and robotic cleaning, and like many things in your home, some pool features like lights and waterfalls can be app controlled via a phone or tablet.

Think carefully about how you’ll use your pool. Do you have young children that want to cannonball off a diving board?

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MOST HOMEOWNERS WHO INVEST IN A POOL ARE DOING IT FOR PERSONAL ENJOYMENT AND FAMILY FUN; THE REAL VALUE IS IN THE MEMORIES MADE AROUND THE POOL DECK. NMLS#476841

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Is a slide a must have? What about space for a basketball goal, volleyball net or room to swim laps? If a diving board is on your list, you’ll need a pool with a diving well, approximately eight feet deep. This can increase the cost of the pool construction, and it’s wise to check with your homeowner’s insurance first, as there can be a fee increase for a diving board.

A sun shelf or tanning ledge is a popular pool feature now, which allows for chairs to sit in the pool, and many homeowners want to incorporate seating areas, like benches, within the pool for relaxing instead of active swimming. “A sun shelf or tanning ledge we probably incorporate in 75 percent of the pools we build now,” says Vaughan. “In addition to putting chairs there, young kids or babies can play in that shallow space.”

A beach entry (also called a zero-depth entry pool) can allow for persons with a disability to roll a wheelchair right to the pool.

This feature would also be a plus for an older homeowner, or following a surgery. A zero-depth entry also creates a beach-like area for young children to play. If you don’t have young children anymore, will you have grandchildren in the future?

Think about how you’ll use the pool now, but also in 10 years, or 15 years. The options are limitless, if the budget allows.

Waterfalls, lights, attached or separate spas, and hardscape areas can create the custom look you desire.

Rules and permits

If you select a reputable pool company or architect, they will know how to navigate the permitting process in your area.

For example, in Bedford you must stay 20 feet off of any septic tank. There’s also a Virginia state code regarding a safety barrier around the pool, which is usually a fence. In some instances, a power safety cover is sufficient, but it depends on the locality. Again, your pool contractor can give you the most updated guidance regarding your area. In addition, you’ll need to check with your homeowner’s association for any additional stipulations, as well as your homeowner’s insurance carrier, to prevent any last minute surprises.

When making such a large investment in your property, you’ll want to think ahead to consider your budget, available options, and desires. Also be aware that pools don’t recoup most of the cost in re-sale, and whether or not it’s a desirable home feature depends on the buyer. Some are thrilled about a pool and others will bypass the property because of it. Most homeowners who invest in one are doing it for personal enjoyment and family fun; the real value is in the memories made around the pool deck. ✦

PROJECT: NATIONAL POOLS

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HOT COLORS for 2021

PAINT CAN CONVEY ANY MOOD FOR ANY ROOM

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B Y K E N DA L L AT K I N S L I V I C K

hen life feels uncertain, the best therapy is to command control over something small and rewarding. A manageable project is an excellent way to regain your sense of footing in an unpredictable world. A project involving color is a double whammy! Color has the power to change our moods. When a concrete action leads to an abstract reward like an improved mood, we achieve satisfaction at its finest. We reap the short-term gratification of task accomplishment, along with the long-term benefits of enjoyment.

One of the easiest ways to affect mood in your home is through paint color. What mood would you like to achieve in 2021? Do you want to feel inspired? Calm? A whimsical sense of escape? Alert, yet Zen? We’ve done some research for you and compiled trending colors for the year ahead, along with their accompanying palettes, where they work best in the home, and the mood they are likely to invoke for you and your home’s inhabitants. Simply painting a room—or even a wall or two—can help you usher in an optimal sense of well-being..

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SHERWIN WILLIAMS

BENJAMIN MOORE

AEGEAN TEAL

MESSENGER BAG

BENJAMIN MOORE

SHERWIN WILLIAMS

URBANE BRONZE

AMAZON SOIL

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The Psychology of Color

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Has your mood ever changed seemingly on a dime without rhyme or reason? Maybe you simply moseyed in or out of a room.

Color psychologist experts theorize that different hues can influence our feelings, thoughts, and even actions. You can easily recognize these effects if you close our eyes and visualize yourself walking through your own home room by room, reflect on the styles of loved ones’ abodes and the associated memories you have in those settings, or think back with nostalgia on a meaningful space from childhood. Identifying the vibes associated with different colors across the spectrum can help you set the mood in your current home and envision a future of desired states of mind.

Bright colors like red, orange and yellow can actually make our hearts beat just a bit faster. Red can enliven a room with a sense of drama and warmth. Depth of the shade creates warm comfort, while brightness brings forth high energy, perfect for a family room or bonus game room. Yellow and orange can inspire both excitement and coziness depending on the shade. These colors are great for communal spaces where the goal is pleasure and togetherness, such a dining room or eat-in kitchen.

Greens and blues remind us of nature and are thought to bring about a sense of harmony and serenity. Soothing and balanced, these colors work great in rooms of the house that encourage rest and relaxation. Bathrooms and bedrooms are the most traditional for greens and blues. Additionally, for those struggling with anxiety and racing thoughts, these colors can bring peace to the mind and offer a centered focus in the home office.

Purple has been traditionally associated with royalty and luxurious living and is known for its ability to inspire artistic ability and spirituality. The shade is also popular with the kiddos. This color works beautifully in children’s bedrooms, imaginative playrooms, and spaces designated for creative hobbies like music, painting and writing.

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White and black are timeless colors, but you want to be sure to pair them with complementary accents, interesting accessories, and eye-catching art, or you risk creating a room that is drab (for the former) or overwhelming (for the latter). If paired well with other aesthetics, both of these classic colors can stand the test of time and make a room feel clean, fresh, modern and stylish. White and black work best in rooms where a lot of time is spent, such as living rooms and basements.

Brown is a wonderful way to warm up a room and offer a sense of inviting coziness.

Brown pairs well with wooden tones, leather, and natural accents. Boasting lots of versatility, brown can work well in essentially any room in the house.

For a color palette that is aesthetically pleasing and balanced (within reason and without limiting your creativity), consider following the classic interior design 60-3010 rule. Choose a main color that will take up 60 percent of the room, in terms of paint, accessories and art. Choose a complementary color that supports but doesn’t compete with that color for another 30 percent of the room.

Fill the final 10 percent with an accent color that contrasts and pairs pleasingly with the original color.

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POPULAR COLORS OF 2021

Take a deep breath, because the overarching theme of 2021 is tranquility. This year’s vibes are entrenched in nature colors, homey comfort, and sunbaked hues.

When you feast your eyes upon these palettes, you can’t help but feel a bit lighter due to the calming undertones.

In December 2020, the color experts at PANTONE revealed their always-anticipated colors of the year—the combo of ULTIMATE GRAY and ILLUMINATING (a bright yellow). The marriage of these colors is a yin and yang of sorts, representing “deeper feelings of thoughtfulness with the promise of something sunny and friendly,” according to their website. This combination of calmness and hope can be seen across the board from all major paint brands.

ULTIMATE GRAY

ILLUMINATING

SHERWIN WILLIAMS

BEHR hopes to “elevate your comfort zone” with the 21 colors that compile their special 2021 color trends palette. The idea here is to relax, maintain a subtle focus, and live with a sense of optimism.

Very intentional with their inspired moods, BEHR includes not only the title of each shade, but also a helpful description of the mood that individual colors are designed to invoke.

These include: Smoky White (soft and serene), Almond Wisp (comfortable and adaptable), Sierra (warm and approachable), Modern Mocha (grounded and relatable), Jojoba (natural and rejuvenating), Wishful Green (nostalgic and fresh), Dayflower (reassuring and calm), Seaside Villa (subtle and elegant), Canyon Dusk (earthy and harmonious), Maple Glaze (hopeful and welcoming), Barnwood Gray (solid and relaxed), Caribe (engaging and steady), Voyage (soothing and spiritual), Jean Jacket Blue (timeless and peaceful), Cellini Gold (confident and inviting), Saffron Strands (fiery and festive), Kalahari Sunset (rich and expressive), Euphoric Magenta (gracious and creative), Nocturne Blue (stable and refined), Royal Orchard (restorative and secure), and Broadway (safe and resilient).

BEHR has made it simple for you. Decide what you wish for the vibe of a room based on personal preference and the room’s purpose, and choose the color that aligns with that vibe. Consider these ideas: Cellini Gold for the dining room, Almond Wisp for the bonus room, Maple Glaze for the guest room, and Jojoba for the bathroom. Any takers? The beauty is in the freedom. Your house, your choice. behr.com/consumer/inspiration/2021-color-trends For a “down to earth” vibe, SHERWIN-WILLIAMS has introduced a color of the year that is dubbed “grounding, meditative, and serene.” URBANE BRONZE was selected for the hue’s ability to ground a room and pair well with other earthy tones like greens, warm neutrals, and bone whites. A monochrome palette includes similarly nature-inspired shades, such as MODERN GRAY and MESSENGER BAG. Earth tones in general go great in rooms designated for a calm yet focused state of mind. They also make excellent accent colors.

A mantel in a den or library, a dressing room, or even the primary shade of a bedroom are ideal for URBANE BRONZE, especially if these spaces already incorporate wood finishes, metallic features, or accents made of stone. swcolorforecast.com Keeping with the calm theme that seems to be a pattern across the board, AEGEAN TEAL is BENJAMIN MOORE’S choice for their color of the year. Noted for its qualities of “intrigue, balance, 34

URBANE BRONZE MESSENGER BAG

MODERN GRAY

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BENJAMIN MOORE

AEGEAN TEAL

and soothing,” Aegean Teal encourages spectators to “settle in” and make themselves at home. This cozy, inviting quality is embodied by the other 11 colors in the 2021 palette line-up: Gray Cashmere, Atrium White, Muslin, Foggy Morning, Amazon Soil, Silhouette, Kingsport Gray, Beacon Hill Damask, Chestertown Buff, Potters Clay and Rosy Peach.

Where do these colors look best? Think of the places associated with creature comforts in your life. What areas do you associate with warmth and joy? A classic cupboard?

An eat-in kitchen with an accent wall? A fireplace frame? A living room with large windows that invite you to bask in the afternoon sun, while you curl up on the couch with a good book? These are all great places to start. benjaminmoore.com/ en-us/color-overview/color-palettes/color-of-the-year-2021

To round out all the feels, PPG PAINTS brings us balance through human connection, kindness and compassion with their 2021 palette. Combining warmth and calmness, PPG’s palette encourages us to transcend our current emotional limitations.

Colors consist of: Big Cypress, Wheat Sheaf, Winter Peach, Heliotrope, Stone Quarry, Silver Leaf, Autumn Glow, Misty Aqua, Irradiant Iris, Salal Leaves, Midsummer’s Dream, Canyon Blue, Delicate White and Transcend. Each color has a visually specific distinction and purpose. Connect with loved ones in your Autumn Glow dining room. Sink into a relaxing bubble bath in your Irradiant Iris bathroom.

Create art in your Winter Peach studio. Snooze the night away in your Silver Leaf bedroom of serenity. ppgpaints.com/color/color-collections Whatever you choose to color your world in 2021, you can relax into fresh colors and projects that honor calm, creativity and freedom of choice. Cheers to tranquility! ✦

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A HOUSE

for life FAMILY HOME RENOVATED WITH UNIVERSAL DESIGN

BY NOELLE MIL AM Photography by Kevin Hurley

When Lee Anne and Jack Steffe moved to Roanoke in 1989, they knew two things: One, they wanted to return to Virginia where both had grown up, and two, they wanted a house they would never have to move out of. Both were busy medical doctors who had just completed their training and neither were fans of the home-buying process.

Touring the 1961 brick Colonial in South Roanoke, the Steffes immediately felt it had everything they would need. With four large bedrooms upstairs plus a mother-in-law suite on the first floor, the house had enough room that they would not have to buy again as their family grew. Up on a ridge overlooking the Roanoke Valley, with a wooded backyard and ample parking, the home had both privacy and a view.

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Fast forward 30 years or so, and Lee Anne, recently retired from her work as a pediatrician, started looking at the realities of their longtime home from a different perspective. No longer eyeing the home’s layout for a busy two-career family with very young children, now she looked at it as a place to retire and age in place.

Jack, who still practices diagnostic radiology and teaches at the VTC School of Medicine, felt the same way. “We were young when we bought this house, and the reality of the laundry area being in the basement and our bedrooms on the second floor was no big deal,” he says. Looking forward though, would it be realistic or even safe? The Steffes were pleased with the cosmetic work they’d done on the house years before, but the reality was, that to stay in the house long-term, they’d need some major renovations. “We still love our house, and we wondered, just because the kids are grown and we are getting older, why does that mean we need to move?” says Lee Anne. “We felt there were things we could do to make this house work for us into retirement and beyond.”

Jack and Lee Anne put careful thought into what renovations would make staying in their home indefinitely not only possible and safe but enjoyable. With list in hand, they reached out to contractor Ken Potter of Potter Construction and interior designer Paula Linkous of Paula Smith Linkous Interiors to help them renovate their home to make it more accessible and allow them to consolidate their main living space on the ground floor.

Out front, the couple raised the driveway and porch to the level of the front door, creating a seamless, step-free entrance to the house. They also widened the front door, replacing the old one with a new, ADA-compliant door with a large glass pane and sidelights that flood the home’s entry with sunlight. An old European fence railing found at Black Dog Salvage has been crafted into a custom transom. “We think of it as outdoor art,” says Lee Anne.

Renovations inside began in February 2019. The Steffes moved to Smith Mountain Lake while the work was being completed, checking in on the progress about once a week. They tried to stay out of the way and rely on the expertise and professionalism of Potter and his team. “Ken was fabulous to work with,” says Lee Anne. “We are one of those rare families who had almost no hiccups through the renovations process. We loved watching the transformation and enjoyed interacting with the subcontractors that Ken Potter uses.”

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Jack agrees. “The job really went so smoothly.

We found Ken to be a careful planner, and very conscientious of timing and the impact of major renovations on his clients. He told us that we’d be back in our home by the last week of March, and that’s when he was done,” he says. Lee Anne also credits the smoothness of the process to their decision to hire interior designer Paula Linkous, who helped with many aspects of the project, including determining how the space would flow and function and choosing finishes.

With Linkous’s guidance, the Steffes decided to remove two walls to open the living room, kitchen, and what had once been a small breakfast room and

a computer room into one free-flowing space, and, at the same time, exposing the home’s panoramic Roanoke Valley view to be appreciated no matter where you stood. “Paula’s biggest thing was the view,” Lee Anne says. “Everything she suggested was designed to showcase the view.”

Linkous’s help was integral in pulling everything together, from the colors, to the furniture arrangements, to small but important details such as reframing the Steffes’ artwork to reflect the style upgrades. Lee Anne says she was also an integral part to mapping out the details of the kitchen renovation, which has completely transformed the space. White custom cabinets now go all the way to

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the ceiling, affording more storage than they had before, while other ingenious storage features have made the kitchen more efficient.

Influenced partly by their daughter, Jan, an enthusiastic environmentalist, but also by their own desire to make more sustainable choices, the Steffes made several “greener” choices with their design. For instance, instead of granite or marble countertops, they opted for “Icestone,” which is made in the U.S. from 100 percent recycled glass and cement. The backsplash is also made from recycled glass. The light-colored hardwood floors are not finished in polyurethane; they are instead coated with a 100 percent plant-based finish called Rubio Monocoat Oil. “We’ve been pleased with it,” says Lee Anne. “It has some real advantages over traditional polyurethane: it’s organic, it doesn’t give off fumes, and it goes on in one coat. However it is very sensitive to water; if you spill, you have to get it right up or you’ll get a dark spot. It’s just a little high maintenance in terms of care.”

The appliances are all energy-efficient state-of-the-art GE Profile. Lee Anne loves the refrigerator-only unit because it maximizes refrigeration space. For frozen foods, the Steffes had two freezer drawers installed on the other side of the kitchen. Lee Anne and Jack really love their induction range too, though it necessitated finding the correct cookware that worked with the range’s magnetic system. The kitchen also features a specialized wall oven that does triple duty as a microwave, convection oven and halogen speed-cook oven.

Off the kitchen lies an inviting sunroom, a transitional space with a relaxing vibe, great natural light, comfortable seating, and numerous houseplants. “I love to have a lot of green around,” says Lee Anne. The impression of an indoor garden is enhanced by the whimsical painted clouds on the ceiling. Brian Kinsey, also known as “Brian the Painter,” the craftsman who painted most of 4 0

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the Steffes’ home, added this flourish and Lee Anne loves it. “The clouds just make me smile, every time,” she says.

All the artwork displayed in the Steffe home has special significance. Above the sink hang pieces that Lee Anne and Jack brought back from a recent trip to Alaska, and a framed set of angel wings painted on metal that were a gift to Lee Anne from her sister-in-law when she was recovering from cancer treatment a few years ago. The kitchen’s open shelving also houses a number of family heirlooms. The shelves are lit with special LED lighting that can be adjusted to switch up the color and pattern (flashing/ fade/steady-on). “We saw these lights when we visited a kitchen that Ken Potter had done,” recalls Lee Anne. “Jack just loved it. In fact, it was the only thing that he insisted we incorporate into our kitchen design.”

In the family dining area hangs another special piece of art: a custom painting by Nene Roe, a local artist who also happens to be a good friend. The painting depicts what Jack and Lee Anne call “their view”—the one seen from their windows looking north up the Roanoke Valley. Nene added several personalized flourishes to the painting. For example, she zeroed in on several important

landmarks for the Steffes: Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Lewis Gale Medical Center, the Steffes’ church, and the red Krispy Kreme “Hot Donuts Now” sign which the Steffes insist they can see from their home. “It’s just like the bat light from Batman,” laughs Jack.

The furniture throughout this space is comfortable and casual in style, and reflects Lee Anne’s preference for calming blues and grays. The walls throughout are painted “Sedate Gray” by Sherwin Williams. The dining table where the family takes most meals was built by Wayne Lamb of Born Again Wood, and represents another way to “upcycle” old furniture. “The table’s legs are legs from an industrial sewing machine table and the top is beams that were in the old C&O Railroad barn in Covington,” says Lee Anne.

The enlarged living room boasts a new fireplace surround with a leathered-granite hearth, and over the clean lines of the white mantel hangs a crewel embroidery picture of birds stitched by Lee Anne’s mother.

The Steffes preserved the home’s formal dining room mostly as it was, though it received a fresh coat of pale blue paint with a combed faux finish below the chair rail, and a glamorous new light fixture to replace the dated brass candlestick chandelier. Jack

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and Lee Anne proudly display a sizable collection of Depression glass, as well as both their families’ heirloom china and silver collections. Among the family treasures in the dining room is an antique bookshelf from the 1800s that belonged to Jack’s grandmother and a silver epergne purchased on a special trip to Charleston, South Carolina.

The traditional dining room suite is updated by the addition of two carved chairs that Lee Anne found at a local yard sale. “I was so certain I’d found these fabulously valuable antiques,” Lee Anne says. “I went online to investigate, and long story short, I found that my ‘fabulous’ antiques were likely…” Jack finishes with a laugh: “…From a local Chinese restaurant!” Lee Anne laughs too. “So maybe not quite the valuable find, but I still love them,” she says.

The renovation also helped the Steffes accomplish their goal of adding a large master suite and functional laundry on the first floor, replacing what had once been their master bedroom and 1960s-sized bathroom that did double duty as the family’s only ground-floor bathroom. A new powder room is adjacent to the living room and kitchen areas. Here, Lee Anne chose a beaded chandelier and a restful blue and white watercolor-patterned wallpaper. “The carpenters were so talented that we were able to repurpose a lot of our stuff in this renovation,” says Lee Ann, gesturing to an antique oak washstand that Jack’s parents gave to the couple early in their marriage. The antique was artfully converted into a sink vanity using a white porcelain vessel sink.

The wall-mounted faucets add a historical look as well.

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A short hallway connects to the new first floor laundry and master suite. An early portrait of the three Steffe children by Tracy Budd is now hung on the wall of the hallway that connects to the new addition. “It used to be over our mantel,” says Lee Anne. “But the kids got older and actually requested that we move it—so here it is, right where I can see it every night on my way to bed.”

The large master bathroom incorporates beautiful design with neutrals: soft gray tile, gray custom cabinetry with cultured marble countertops, pale gray walls and smart precautions such as wider doorways and shower grab bars to make life easier as the couple age. Custom cabinetry extras include a built-in vanity with a rolling stool that the carpenters customized for Lee Anne.

A freestanding soaker tub set at an angle with artistic vertical tile “border” complete the sense of tranquility in this spacious master bath.

The master bedroom beyond is one of those rooms that elicits an “ahhh” just walking into it. With cathedral ceilings and unadorned windows on three sides to capture more extraordinary views, it feels like a room suspended in the treetops. “I feel a bit like I’m in a treehouse when I’m in here,” says Lee Anne. The master bedroom does evoke a treehouse feel—albeit a luxurious one. The colors here are Lee Anne’s signature soothing grays and blues, but the eye is instantly drawn to the unique piece of sculpture in the nook over the door. Here, B.J. Carter, a mixedmedia artist (and plumber’s son) created the sculpture from leftover pieces of the Steffes’ renovation. The “floral” creation is

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evocative of the art nouveau style, with its sinuous stems and flowers—except the stem of this “flower” is piping from the old shower’s copper pipes, and “petals” and “leaves” are made from leftover tiles from the kitchen and bath. Talk about reuse and recycle!

The basement also received a repurposing during the renovation. Once a dark bastion of laundry facilities and a hangout area for the Steffe children, the basement was transformed into a sleek apartment for Jack and Lee Anne’s son, Will, their resident grad student. To this end, Lee Anne, Jack and Will designed the updated space, adding a bedroom, a kitchen, and a separate entrance.

The Steffes’ home is built into a hillside, so the landscaping has to accommodate that. The sunny backyard was designed

by Melissa Hodgkinson of Fiddlehead Landscape and Garden Design and installed by

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Roanoke Landscapes, and features undulating beds of shasta daisies, calla lilies, chrysanthemums, sedum, lily of the valley and ferns. The patio, also installed

by Roanoke Landscapes, is constructed of cement pavers, and provides level ground for the family’s firepit gathering area.

At the back of the house is a low brick retaining wall built to accommodate the basement bedroom addition.

As the wall was going up, the couple had the idea to include two commemorative bricks recognizing the changes the home has undergone. The first brick is engraved “EST. 1961,” to note when the house was built.

“The bricks are a nice touch,” says Jack. “Most homes of this era were not designed to stay in forever, but we hope our choices here will allow us to do just that.”

Next to it is a second brick. This one reads, “RENO 2019.” ✦

New year, new home!

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LIVE single-serve dishes

aSingle-serve cozydishes dinner make great dinners to share

BY MARSHA GALE

Though spring is just around the corner, there is still a chill in the air and we crave warm, comforting food. Sharing a meal with a small group of close friends or with a significant other nourishes not only your body but also your soul. Most of us have reached the limit of what we can draw from virtual happy hours and Zoom calls but still want social interaction. Buffets may be out for now, but individual-serving-sized portions are all the rage. You can make just about any large casserole and portion it out into ramekins or heat-proof bowls. And with Valentine’s Day on the horizon, what says “I love you” more than a romantic candlelight dinner for two at home?

The following recipes offer easy but far superior alternatives to take out.

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Individual Chicken Pot Pies

SERVES 8 2 sheets puff pastry 4 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large onion, chopped (or 2 cups frozen pearl onions, defrosted and patted dry) 2 carrots, chopped 1 large russet potato, peeled and chopped 2 ribs celery with leafy tops, chopped 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 large bay leaf 2 tablespoons flour 2 cups chicken broth or stock 1 cup milk or half-and-half 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 3-4 cups shredded, cooked chicken from 1 rotisserie chicken 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested 3/4 cup frozen peas 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or thyme (optional) 1 egg

You will need 6 to 8 oven-safe (to 425 degrees) soup bowls. For larger portions, use bowls with an 18-20 ounce capacity; for smaller portions, use bowls with a 12-14 ounce capacity.

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean-up.

For crust: Dust a clean, dry work surface with flour and place the puff pastry over top.

Sprinkle the pastry with flour and roll to about 1/8-inch thick, smoothing the creases with the rolling pin at the same time. Using a sharp knife, kitchen shears or a pizza cutter, cut out 6 circles about 2 inches larger than the diameter of your soup bowls. (Alternatively, cut out 8 circles if making smaller portions.)

You can get 4 large or 6 small circles out of one sheet of puff pastry. Place the dough rounds on the foil-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to use.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and set oven rack to the center position.

For filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt butter and olive oil, then add onions, carrots, potato, celery, garlic, salt and pepper, and bay leaf. Partially cover the pan and sweat the mixture for about 10 minutes to soften, stirring occasionally. Add flour and stir to combine. Whisk in stock, milk, mustard and nutmeg and stir occasionally while it thickens,

about 5 minutes. Stir in chicken. Reduce heat to low/simmer and finish with lemon zest and juice, frozen peas, parsley and dill. Remove bay leaf.

Divide filling into bowls, making sure they aren’t filled more than 3/4 of the way to the top of the bowls.

Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water.

Remove the pastry rounds from the refrigerator. Brush the outside edges of each bowl with the egg wash.

Place the cold dough rounds over the bowls, pressing firmly around the edges so that the dough adheres. Transfer the bowls to the foil-lined baking sheet. Brush the dough with the egg wash. Using a sharp knife, make a 1/2 inch slit in the top of each pie. Place the bowls on the baking sheet and bake for 20 25 minutes, or until the pastry is rich golden brown. Let cool for about 10 minutes, then use a wide spatula to carefully transfer the hot bowls to serving plates.

The pies may be assembled and refrigerated up to a day ahead of time. Brush the top of the dough with egg wash just before baking.

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A NEW YEAR

at George’s Flowers...

Molten Lava Cakes for Two

SERVES 2 BUT CAN EASILY BE DOUBLED OR TRIPLED Chocolate is synonymous with Valentine’s Day, and this is the quintessential romantic dessert. It’s also the easiest version I’ve ever tried!

4 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces 1 large egg 1 egg yolk 3 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 pinch salt 2 tablespoons flour

QP7

If making and serving the cakes at once, preheat oven to 425 degrees. Butter two ¾- cup ceramic ramekins or ovenproof glass custard cups. Sprinkle granulated sugar in ramekins and swirl around to coat the inside. This keeps the cakes from sticking, and also adds a nice crunch to the outside of the cakes.

In the microwave, on medium low setting (use the melt feature if your microwave has one), melt the butter with the chocolate, stirring after 30 seconds and adding time as needed until chocolate is completely melted. Stir to combine butter and chocolate; set aside.

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In a medium bowl, whisk egg and yolk lightly, then add sugar and salt and whisk until blended and slightly paler and thickened, about 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in the melted chocolate, in a stream, then whisk in flour.

Divide batter between buttered ramekins.

At this point, ramekins can be refrigerated for a day if preparing in advance; cover them loosely with plastic wrap once they’re cool.

Bake cakes on a baking sheet in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes if preparing immediately, up to 14 minutes if baking after refrigerating. Go by appearance, rather than time; the cakes should be firm on the outside and dry across the top, but the center inch or so should still be quite wobbly.

Remove from oven and let stand 1 minute. Run a knife around the sides to loosen, then turn them out onto individual serving plates.

Sift powdered sugar over them, if desired, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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French Martini

2 DRINKS Pink and frothy, this is the perfect fancy cocktail for Valentine’s Day. The combination of vodka, pineapple juice and Chambord, a black raspberry liquor with a complex flavor profile, makes a slightly sweet but refreshing sipper. The addition of sea salt may seem strange, but it will magnify the sweet and tart flavors in the drink. Just make sure to use fine sea salt, so it completely dissolves when you shake it.

4 ounces premium vodka 1 ounce Chambord 3 ounces pineapple juice Small pinch of fine-grain sea salt Raspberries or pineapple wedges for garnish Fill a cocktail shaker with ice until half full.

Pour in vodka, Chambord and pineapple juice. Sprinkle in the fine sea salt and shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Pour the mixture into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a raspberry or pineapple wedge. ✦

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GARDEN best in houseplants

a foliage fancy

BY MITZI BIBLE

m

ost of us have always had a few leafy roommates lounging about— a ficus greeting guests in the foyer, African violets basking in a windowsill, a philodendron cascading off a bookshelf—but there’s a new generation of plant lovers who are taking indoor gardening to a whole new level. Instagram is budding with accounts dedicated to whole-house collections (or “jungles” as many plant enthusiasts call them). Years ago, who would have dreamed that taking photos of your houseplants and sharing them with everyone you know would become a popular hobby?

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In the past few years, the sale of houseplants has increased 50 percent, according to the National Gardening Association. Market researchers attribute this to an overall wellness trend among millennials who have an appreciation for the natural world and acknowledge the physical and mental health benefits of caring for a plant.

But we can thank them for taking up their green hobby because the great houseplant revival has led to more accessible varieties than ever before.

High appeal, low maintenance

You can’t leave a gardening store now without seeing families of succulents. They may well be the most popular houseplant today.

Their thick, “succulent” leaves (the name actually means “juicy”) can store so much water that they require very little regular care; you might as well nickname such a plant “Miss Independent.”

Though most are small and simple in shape, they come in just enough colors and varieties to pull off a beautiful potted bouquet.

Customizing your own arrangements has become a popular pastime as well. A little chic “chick” here, a little pointy, prickly cacti there. Succulents are suitable for any design style.

Succulents do have needs, though—and mostly that means sunshine. Some varieties need up to six hours per day. Direct sun is best, but like many other houseplants, rotating them often can help them maintain a sturdy structure. (Leaning is a telltale sign they need to be moved). Succulents require soil that drains, so cactus soil or a mix of potting soil with sand or pumice is best.

Watering is the tricky part. Overwater and they will drown. You can test the soil about an inch deep on top; when that is dry, then you can water. It is best to water just the soil and not the leaves, as they can develop mold.

Succulents are an easy starting point for a new indoor gardener whose thumb hasn’t turned green yet. And they

make great gifts, too, symbolizing an enduring friendship or celebrating a major accomplishment.

Another hardy independent and a bit exotic plant is the Tillandsia; you may know this as an “air plant.” These little marvels are so independent they don’t even need a pot—or soil.

They exist on the air around them and a simple misting once or twice a week. The largest genus in the bromeliad family, these plants enjoy bright light and thrive outdoors or indoors.

Stand them among rocks or inside a seashell or glass ball, or dangle them from the ceiling in any number of makeshift plant hammocks. The display itself is a conversation starter.

Off the beaten pothos

Today’s plant enthusiasts are collectors, too, constantly hunting for a new species to add to their leafy kingdom, or snagging that slight variation to more commonplace plants. Many people own a pothos (also called devil’s ivy), one of the most common and easy-to-care-for houseplants that can grow vines even in shady corners. But the silver pothos, with its striking white markings, is a great find. In brighter light, the markings become even more vibrant.

Or take the long, spiky spider plant (Chlorophytum) for example, a plant that is easy to maintain and safe for pets. The basic green barbs are common, but to change things up a bit, search out a variegated spider plant featuring a white stripe down the center or even a “reverse variegatum,” with edges that are first yellowish, then turn white around their green center.

Just as the houseplant craze keeps getting bigger, so do the plants themselves. The tropical monstera plant has a fitting name for its supersize nature, and when left in brighter sunny spots can really get to work showing off its big, green, heart-shaped leaves.

If you’re looking for a plant to accent your larger furnishings, this would be it.

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Ask what your plant can do for you

We learned in elementary school science that plants produce oxygen, and we know oxygen is good for us, especially in a closed-off environment. Some botanists believe that plants are actually working more for us than we know; they can remove toxins and help purify the air, though some say you’d have to simulate a dense rainforest to see this gain. But while the jury is still out on just how effective houseplants are for cleaning our air, there is no doubt that owning a plant can have positive benefits.

Some interior designers live by the rule that you should include something living in each room. Plants can remind us of the world alive outside our walls and help create the relaxed

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environment we need in order to decrease our everyday stress and enrich our well-being. And in a very real though hard-toexplain way, just being close to another living thing can inspire and motivate, helping to increase our own productivity.

Green thumb or not, most houseplants just seem to know how to be patient with us and forgive us if we miss a watering. There are so many hardy varieties that can become a fixture in our homes for years to come. So enjoy exploring the jungle of possibilities out there if you want to create a jungle of your own and literally “liven up” your home decor. ✦

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IMPROVE outdoor heaters

OUTDOOR HEATING

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ur patios and yards have beckoned us throughout the COVID pandemic to safe yet intimate al fresco entertaining. Innovative outdoor heaters can upgrade your patio into a year-round oasis, infusing your outdoor space with style and cozy ambiance. Firepits, firepit tables, chimineas, patio heaters and outdoor fireplaces are surging in popularity, as we increasingly extend our living spaces to the outdoors. Of course, dress in layers, don hats and gloves, and keep throws handy to stay toasty on chilly evenings spent relaxing in your outdoor getaway. r vhomemaga zine .com 5 3

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When investing in outdoor heaters, consider the size of your outdoor space, the style and ambiance you hope to create, safety and environmental concerns, and your budget. Decide whether firewood, electricity or propane/natural gas is your optimal heat source, and, for electric and propane-fueled heaters, if infrared (radiant) or convection heat best meets your needs. Heating output, measured in watts for electricity and British Thermal Units (BTUs) for propane, indicates your heater’s strength while its heating range, measured in square feet, denotes its reach.

Obviously, the greater your heater’s output and range, the better it will warm your space. Confirm that your outdoor heater is constructed with quality materials, such as stainless steel, to maximize its safety and durability.

Whether freestanding or mounted, the model you choose is a determining factor in its heat source. For example, propane or natural gas can fuel standalone heaters but not mounted ones; electricity safely powers both freestanding and mounted models.

Ensure your heater assembles easily, and identify the accessories (spark screen, pokers, covers, wheels) safety features (automatic shut-off), and the warranty and customer service agreements your purchase covers to get the best value for your money.

There are many vendors who manufacture popular outdoor heating systems. You can research and purchase them online or in big box stores like Home Depot, Walmart or Lowes. Amazon publishes their bestsellers as well as customer reviews ranking product features like portability and durability.

Firepits, chimineas and firepit tables are ideal for heating smaller outdoor venues and fetch prices from $50 to over $1,500.

Firepits and chimineas typically burn firewood while firepit tables generally run on propane. Install your wood-burning firepit in an open space, at least 20 to 25 feet away from any flammable structure—like wooden decks—or one prone to smoke stains.

While picturesque, wood-burning firepits can billow smoke into your guests’ faces as they bask in its warm glow. Chimineas solve this problem by adding a chimney funnel atop the wood-burning base to direct smoke vertically, yet may eclipse a 360-degree view of the fire. Propane-based firepit tables create a warm and festive air, look great surrounded by cozy chairs, and are safer for patios and decks than wood-burning alternatives.

Fueled by electricity or propane, patio heaters are excellent options for warming larger outdoor spaces and begin at a little higher price point of $250 to over $1,500. Many consider electric-fueled patio heaters as the safest, most versatile and

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eco-friendly outdoor heating alternative, though your electricity bill might spike. They don’t emit gases; can be freestanding, mounted, and used indoors; and deliver a steady heat supply without frequent gas tank refills.

Electric heat warms by infrared (radiant) heat, which projects invisible energy wavelengths to nearby objects, not the surrounding air. Infrared heat is windresistant, economical and harmless.

Research shows it can even boost our immune, circulation and metabolic system!

In contrast, propane-fueled outdoor heaters generate convectional heat, which suffuses and warms the surrounding air. They deliver a remarkable heating range (think 18 square feet) and heat output (about 50,000 BTUs). Most propane heaters sport a 20-pound refillable tank, an easy push-button ignition system, and a safety cut-off valve. Unlike electric heat, propane-fueled heat is vulnerable to the wind and can emit harmful residual gases.

Patio heaters embody the marriage of function and style, radiating robust

warmth while keeping it chic. An electric patio heater attractively mounted within your pergola, coupled with a freestanding heater featuring Bluetooth speakers, will charm and warm your guests. Propane patio heaters, which feature an elegant pyramid shape with glass tubes illuminating mesmerizing flames and the unique cylinder and domed-top design, are on trend.

Outdoor fireplaces graciously extend your outdoor entertaining season.

Built from kits and often requiring professional installation, freestanding propane fireplaces are the most expensive outdoor heating option, with prices climbing from $700 to over $5,000. These sturdy fireplaces can weigh up to half a ton, radiate generous heat (nearing 65,000 BTUs), and start with a simple push of an ignition button—everything you need for instant and heart-warming entertaining.

Whatever your budget, you can find an outdoor heating system that will make your patio and yard the perfect yearround retreat. ✦

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BASEMENT RENOVATION

LOVING YOUR LOWER LEVEL

W

BY JANE RENNYSON

e all need a place to go once in a while to escape, especially these days when everyone in the family is spending more time at home and our favorite activities outside the home may not be available due to the pandemic. Your basement could be that escape, and now may be the perfect time for a basement renovation. Experts say renovating a basement will likely give you a 70 to 75 percent return on your investment.

Not only will it be a sound financial decision, but the additional space may have a positive impact on you and your family’s well-being.

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Get the most out of your remodel

The addition of square footage to your home is excellent for resale and a finished basement is no exception. In order to be considered a truly finished basement and increase your property value, certain guidelines must be met. The entire space must be completed in a similar fashion to the main living levels of the home. There must be a properly installed electrical system and a permanently installed heating and cooling system, such as an HVAC system or one powered by natural gas, propane or oil. Baseboard heating is acceptable for the distinction of “finished,” but a portable space heater or an air conditioning wall or window unit is not. Flooring in the basement must be carpet, wood, vinyl or tile; a painted concrete or plywood floor is considered unfinished. Likewise, the walls and ceiling must be drywalled and the ceilings must be level. Visible pipes and poles are not acceptable and neither are exposed beams unless they are decorative.

Accessibility and safety are two things to keep in mind when finishing your basement. A basement that is only accessible from the outside is still considered unfinished. Stairs leading to the basement must be permanent and must have access from the inside. All safety codes must be met including the presence of smoke detectors and proper exits. The basement must have an egress window or door, defined as an opening 20 inches wide by 24 inches in height, and if there is separate room such as an office or a bedroom, that must have one as well.

Of course you can still give your basement a facelift and make it a usable and enjoyable space even if you aren’t technically going to finish it according to these guidelines. Fresh paint, a new area rug and smartly placed furniture and lighting can go a long way when turning your forgotten basement into a new family room, home office or exercise space.

Moisture and materials: not to be underestimated

DETAILS REGARDING CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN AND SAFETY ARE EXTREMELY IMPORTANT WHEN PLANNING A BASEMENT RENOVATION, BUT THE MORE EXCITING PART WILL BE DECIDING HOW YOU ARE GOING TO USE THE SPACE.

When remodeling or finishing a basement, there are important steps to take whether you are doing the work yourself or hiring a contractor, to make sure things are done properly. One of the most important things to consider when finishing your basement is moisture. Basements are prone to being damp, and this needs to be addressed at every stage of the remodel. The standard way to finish a basement is to build new walls inside the existing concrete walls, but first you will need to do a moisture test. Tape off a 12-inch-square area with a piece of plastic and duct tape and leave it for 24 hours. If there is condensation present, you have a moisture problem. If the walls are dry to the touch, you can simply paint them with a sealant. But if you have visible leaks and standing

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water, the walls will need to be waterproofed. Start by filling in any small cracks in the walls and gaps around your pipes with a concrete patching compound. Larger cracks can be filled with hydraulic cement that will expand. Be aware that any cracks larger than the width of a pencil should be examined by a structural engineer in order to ensure professional repairs aren’t needed. An interior drain that leads to a sump pump can be installed to remove standing water. These precautions may seem time consuming and costly but will save you time and money in the long run. You don’t want to skimp here and have to deal with water issues in the future.

When it’s time to build the walls, use moisture- and rotresistant materials. Rigid foam board insulation is recommended over fiberglass because it is less likely to be damaged by moisture. Using treated wood is a good idea but make sure your nails and screws are compliant so they won’t corrode when they come in contact with the chemicals in the wood that protect it from moisture. Insulating the pipes and adding a vapor barrier to the walls will only add to your peace of mind during your renovation.

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Facts about flooring

Now that the walls are up, it’s time to move on to flooring. Sealing the concrete floor in the basement will prevent mold or mildew from forming and moisture from damaging the flooring you choose to install. Test for moisture the same way you tested the walls. If dark patches appear on the concrete, it will need to be dried before it can be sealed. For an older concrete floor, you can run a dehumidifier and a fan for a couple of days and it should dry nicely. A newer concrete floor will take much longer to dry—possibly up to four weeks or more. Caulking around the entire basement where the floor meets the walls will add an extra layer of protection from moisture trying to creep in.

Once the floor is dry, prepare it for a coat of sealant. Vacuum up debris and scrape away any old paint that may be chipping or peeling. Make sure there isn’t mold or mildew growing at the base of the walls. If there is, use a fungicide to remove it before sealing. One additional step to take before you install your new floors is to make sure the concrete is level. If there is a slope of more than a half inch in 8 feet, you will need to fill in the low areas

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404 Walnut Avenue SE, Roanoke, VA 24014 | (540) 427-2001 | www.pitmanconstruction.com r vhomemaga zine .com 59

with a self-leavening compound or you can rent a concrete sander for the high spots. Installing carpet, vinyl and engineered hardwood requires the floor to be mostly level, but if you are installing vinyl tile or ceramic tile, it must be perfectly level to keep the tiles in place and to prevent cracking. A subfloor can assist with leveling and adds an extra layer between the new flooring and the concrete for moisture protection and warmth. Backer board is generally used as a subfloor for tile, while plywood is acceptable for carpet, wood and vinyl installations.

Choosing the type of flooring for your basement requires some thought. Carpeting provides a warm and cozy feel in an otherwise cold environment, but be sure to purchase moisture-resistant padding for an additional safeguard. Vinyl, ceramic tile and laminate flooring all are good choices because of their durability and the variety of styles and colors from which to choose. Engineered hardwood is a smart choice because of its ability to withstand the temperature and moisture changes in a basement.

Keeping things light and bright

The ceiling style and height will have the largest effect on the overall feel of your newly finished basement. International Residential Code, standard regulations for new construction and remodeling, requires the ceiling height to be at least 7 feet, but experts recommend 7.9 feet as the lowest possible height to avoid feeling too cramped. While a drywall ceiling and a drop ceiling are about equal in cost, drywall will look nicer than the system of grids and panels of a drop ceiling, and won’t take up the extra room. If you are worried about accessing valves in the pipes above, install access panels in the drywall instead of opting for a drop ceiling.

A low ceiling in the basement may be unavoidable; luckily there are design elements that you can use to make the space seem larger, lighter and brighter. Always use light colors for the ceiling, floors and walls. Hanging or pendant lights will 6 0

make the ceiling seem lower; install recessed or can lighting instead.

Use lots of additional lighting such as floor lamps, table lamps and wall sconces. The lighter the better!

Decorate with mirrors to reflect light around the room, and use colorful artwork on the walls to brighten up the area. If possible, install an exterior door with a large window to allow natural light to pour in.

An open floor plan is best when it comes to design. It will make the basement feel bigger, especially if the ceiling is low. Using smallerscale furniture can give the illusion of a higher ceiling, and keeping the basement neat and decluttered will give you that open and airy feeling you are trying to achieve.

Endless entertainment possibilities

Details regarding construction, design and safety are extremely important when planning a basement renovation, but the more exciting part will be deciding how you are going to use the space. If a home office or school room is needed, the basement may provide a separate, quiet space to get work done. At the end of a long day you can return upstairs and leave work or school behind for the evening. A recreational room is definitely worth the money and can grow as your family grows. If you have small children, a basement is a great place for blocks, train sets, play kitchens and crafting. Older kids and teens will appreciate a place with a little bit of privacy to hang out with friends. If there is room, consider a ping pong or pool table, dartboard or indoor basketball hoop. There’s nothing like a little healthy competition to bring families together.

Empty nesters will enjoy planning a basement all for themselves. Maybe now is the time for that art studio you have always wanted or a home gym to finally get in shape.

Whatever you decide for your new basement, with the right materials, careful planning and smart design you will be able to enjoy your newly renovated space now and for many years to come. âœŚ R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E E a r l y S p r i n g 2 0 2 1

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Nominate your favorite local stores, service providers and businesses for all things home improvement, design and garden. We want you to tell us who should be on the ballot.

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VISIT RVHOMEMAG.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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LIVE cutting cable

cutting the cord WATCH YOUR FAVORITE SHOWS WITHOUT CABLE B Y PAU L A P E T E R S C H A M B E R S

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In the beginning, “cutting the cord” literally referred to cutting the umbilical cord that connects a newborn to its mother. Later, the phrase was used colloquially to mean severing financial or emotional ties to an older child. In recent years, the saying has developed a whole new meaning: disconnecting television viewing from a cable company.

While people might assume that cable companies are relatively recent players in the broadcast market, cable television began in the late 1940s to extend service to homes in rural and mountainous areas where broadcast signals didn’t reach. In the 1980s, federal deregulation allowed cable companies to expand, giving rise to a proliferation of more channels and options than could be accessed via a simple “rabbit ear” antenna.

Thanks to the internet, there are new pathways for content delivery, and a host of “streaming” services can deliver that content. In many cases, cutting the cord will save money, but before you part ways with your cable provider for good, gather information and make some decisions.

How do you get your internet?

For many households, internet is provided by a cable company that neatly packages internet, TV and a land line phone. Pricing structures typically reward bundling, discouraging people to purchase internet by itself. That doesn’t mean it’s not possible.

BroadbandSearch.net is an online research entity, unaffiliated with any cable company, that provides information about TV and internet service providers (ISPs). Simply enter your ZIP code to see what ISPs serve your area. Pay careful attention to speed: The more you stream, the more speed you need. A typical family of four should look for at least 40 Mb/s (megabytes per second).

Some ISPs (Cox, Xfinity and Verizon) are now offering 1G speeds.

What kind of TV do you have?

TV technology has changed much in the past two decades, first with the advent of the flat-screen TV, which made a TV more of an appliance, not furniture. Samsung introduced a so-called “smart” TV in 2008, dramatically changing the landscape again.

As the name implies, a smart TV is one that can do it all: access content through an antenna, cable line and the internet.

It’s “smart” because internet access is built-in, so no additional hardware is necessary. Smart TVs come loaded with viewing apps—which ones depend on the TV manufacturer—and more can be downloaded as desired. The installation process is as simple as downloading a new app on a cell phone. Simply search for the network name and then follow the prompts.

Another feature of newer (say, within the past dozen years) TVs is an HDMI—high-definition media input—port, usually on the side or rear of the case. Using an HDMI cord, a laptop can be connected to a TV, so what you see on the computer will be shown on the TV screen. Gone is the family huddle around a monitor. You can ditch cable without having a smart TV, but you’ll need a TV with an HDMI port.

For TVs that aren’t smart, a set-top box or streaming stick is required to connect to the internet. Roku offers a variety of devices, some of which have voice command features and the ability to plug headphones into the remote, for private listening.

Google Chromecast connects to subscription services and has games and music. Amazon Fire sticks sync well with Alexa sound control devices; one stick also includes an HD antenna.

If you’re lucky, you already have a device in the house that will support streaming, such as a gaming system (Sony PS4, Microsoft Xbox), TiVo (depending on the version) and perhaps even your Blu-ray player.

What do you like to watch?

Here’s where the rubber meets the road. You need to identify— and prioritize—what type of content you are most interested in and which networks (if any) you just can’t live without.

For an experience most closely mirroring a cable package, look to live TV streaming services, such as YouTubeTV, FiosTV, Sling, FuboTV, Hulu Live, and AT&T TV. These provide a channel lineup that includes local networks, some channels you’d expect from a cable provider (e.g., Bravo, TNT, Freeform) and often live sports.

Live TV streaming services mimic the “feel” of a cable provider for a lower price. TechHive.com, an independent website offering consumer advice, has charts with detailed information about which channels are found on the most popular streaming services.

If you’re ready to be done with irritating ads and make all your own viewing choices, on-demand streaming services will offer TV series and movies (both old and new), documentaries and even international programming. Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, HBO Max, Showtime and Starz have different content, including critically acclaimed original shows.

Each service has its own monthly cost and may have limits on the number of screens that can be logged in simultaneously.

Remember: If a child is visiting the grandparents but logged into the family Netflix account, that’s an active screen, which counts toward the total allowed. Same applies to a college-aged child watching from a faraway campus.

The easiest, and least expensive option, is to use an antenna, which provides—for free—whatever channels the antenna can access via the airwaves. The challenge here to find the best antenna for your particular location. If you crave a retro look, “rabbit ear” antennas are still available, and can sit on top of or alongside your set. New designs resembling flat or gently curved tiles can be mounted on an interior wall, or sit on a shelf or windowsill and will likely access primary networks (ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX). If your house is far from local broadcast towers or situated in a densely populated area, a rooftop antenna might be necessary to ensure a strong signal.

Before you make any changes to existing service, take advantage of free trial periods. It’s likely that every streaming service will have one or two desirable programs; the challenge is to limit yourself to the most cost-effective services for your preferences. Most plans have monthly pay structures, not longterm contracts. It’s easy to add a specific service for a month or two, if there’s a show you just can’t live without.

BroadbandSearch.net estimates that by 2030, nearly 50 percent of U.S. households will be using streaming services exclusively.

Cable television has been available for decades, and likely will continue to be. But it’s not the only option. ✦

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DESIGN mirror magic

mIRROR, mIRROR

CREATING A SPACE YOU CAN REALLY SEE YOURSELF IN

BY AMELIA POORE

s

ometimes we love them and sometimes we don’t, but we always need them; mirrors are certainly functional in more ways than one. Not only can we use them to make sure we look presentable, but also to maximize the space, light and appeal in every room in our homes.

There are no real rules for decorating with mirrors, aside from a few common-sense limitations, most

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notably the proverbial “less is more;” the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles is world-famous and rare for a reason! Nonetheless, you really can put mirrors anywhere, on walls and furniture, from the bathroom to the living room. However, the way many designers figure out where to put a mirror is based on what else is in the room, namely windows, entries, and other focal-point decorations, like fireplaces and other art.

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Mirrors are frequently revered as the most efficient way to brighten a room because they reflect light. By placing a mirror opposite or next to a window, you can magnify the natural light in the room, regardless of how overcast the sky is outside. Alternatively, in a room with few or small windows, putting a mirror behind a lamp will brighten the room in a similar way.

Many designers also suggest placing mirrors opposite the room’s entryway. This “greeting technique” is especially useful to expand narrow entries and hallways.

Additionally, using a statement mirror is a simple way to add interest to the otherwise mundane transition area. And, of course, having a mirror in the entryway is practical for the last-second onceover we all do before we run out of the house.

Fireplace mantels and statement furniture are common spots to place a mirror because, as the focal point of the room, they are the most logical place to put a complementary focal point such as a mirror. But even in rooms without such a focal point, using a mirror can still create the visual center of the room. Placing a statement mirror, such as a midcentury starburst or an antique convex Alice Goes Through the Looking-Glass-type mirror, above a sofa, or propping a floorlength mirror against an empty wall, creates a focal point all on its own.

The best rule of thumb is to hang the mirror across from something you want to see reflected back, whether it’s natural light from the window or a piece of art on the wall. This can also influence the size and scale of the mirror you choose, as well as the frame style. To maintain cohesion across your decor, the mirror size and style should fit with the existing pieces in your space.

For example, if your living room’s aesthetic is more classic and traditional, a sleek frameless floor mirror may stick out more than you might wish. This is especially true when using a mirror in a grouping, such as on a gallery wall.

Once you’ve settled on a location for your mirror, the next step is safely securing it.

Because mirrors are often heavier and more breakable than most decor, using proper security hardware is essential.

If you choose to hang your mirror, a nail hammered halfway into the wall most likely will not be enough. Instead, invest in two wall hooks or picture hangers, using one on each side of the mirror to keep it flat against the wall. If the mirror is very heavy or valuable, you may benefit most by having it hung by professionals. r vhomemaga zine .com 65

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If you choose the trendy leaning method, one way to help ensure that your mirror won’t slide down or tip over is to use furniture straps, like you would use to babyproof furniture around your home. To do this, secure one end of the strap to the wall and the other to the mirror. To keep a leaning mirror secure, use two straps, one on each side of the mirror. Alternatively, especially if you have a slick surface, you can put something underneath the frame such as a small rubber door stopper or a strip of anti-slip tape.

Fortunately, after being secured against the wall, mirrors are very low maintenance.

When a mirror gets dusty, simply dusting with a feather duster or using a small amount of window-cleaning solution on the glass if necessary is all the upkeep you need.

Overall, mirrors are one of the most flexible and functional ways to decorate your home.

No matter where you decide to place a mirror in your home, you will doubtless be able to find one in a style that suits your unique taste. From modern or midcentury to traditional or ornate, the possibilities are endless. ✦ R o a n o ke Va l l e y H O M E E a r l y S p r i n g 2 0 2 1

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