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firepits, neutral decor, adirondack chairs & lawn game fun
50 IDEAS TO CELEBRATE SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE 2016 ANNUAL EDITION
Experience Life Refreshed.
The Best Decision We’ve Ever Made Maintenance free living. Financial peace of mind. Twenty-four hour security. Healthcare for life. Time for family and friends. What else could we want? We swim in the indoor saltwater pool; dine with friends; go on trips; and take classes through WC University. And we love our walks on the nature trail. We’re busier now than we’ve ever been. And oh, do we feel young again. We’re enjoying life like never before. We’ve discovered Life Refreshed! Start planning your future and experience Life Refreshed. Call Laura Hunter to schedule a tour, (434) 386-3305 or (800) 962-3520 A LifeCare Retirement Community 501 V.E.S. Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503
www.wclynchburg.org
DESIGNED BY DOCTORS. BUILT FOR PATIENTS. Carilion Clinic’s Institute for Orthopaedics and Neurosciences takes an innovative approach to advanced patient care through collaboration across specialties. From bone and joint injuries to brain and spine disorders, our care team works together to help patients achieve their best possible outcome. Hand and Upper Extremity | Joint Replacements Neurosurgery | Pain Management | Pediatric Neurosurgery Pediatric Orthopaedics | Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physical and Occupational Therapy | Spine | Sports Medicine
Institute for Orthopaedics and Neurosciences
800-422-8482 | CarilionClinic.org/ION
We’re The Smith Mountain Lake Experts. What to tell you about our expertise at creating amazing outdoor environments at Smith Mountain Lake? We could mention that we are a 6 time Best of SML winner. We could share that we’ve completed over 335 SML landscape & hardscape projects in the last 8 years. And that we are experts in Buffer Landscaping and AEP Shoreline Management. All true. But at the end of the day, what we do is about what YOU experience and the memories YOU create at the end of your day on the lake. And for that, a picture truly is worth a thousand words...
Call us at 434.821.6004 or on the web at www.soscapes.com for a consultation.
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ULTIMATE CONTROL WITH STYLE AND COMFORT TO MATCH. The Sea-Doo GTI 130 and its many standard features make this watercraft very popular for families looking for a fun day on the water. Equipped with the best technology for the best day ever with our fuel-efficient ECO mode and Touring / Sport modes. Enjoy the comfort and ease of a Touring Seat and Reboarding Step, and the confidence that comes with our Intelligent Brake and Reverse you’ll maneuver with ease and feel safer than ever.
Since its beginning in 1977, Webster Marine has been a family owned and operated, full-service marine center on beautiful Smith Mountain Lake, VA. Boasting the largest inventory of deck boats, pontoons, and Sea-Doos in Southwest Virginia, Webster Marine offers new and pre-owned boat and Sea-Doo sales, as well as service, parts, accessories and slip rentals. Conveniently located next to Halesford Bridge, stop by and visit us today.
WebsterMarine.com | 540-297-5228 | 800-325-9110 1185 Mills Road | Moneta, Virginia 24121 | Off Route 122, North of Hales Ford Bridge
“Now Serving Non Ethanol Gas 24/7” ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.
n EDITOR’S NOTE This year is a momentous one for Smith Mountain Lake. Our little slice of heaven is celebrating its 50th anniversary! At HOME, we’re thrilled to contribute to the excitement with our special Smith Mountain Lake annual issue. When we began planning last summer, publisher Julie Pierce, editor in chief Meridith Ingram and I approached the milestone as a “golden” opportunity to mix in some 50th anniversaryrelated fun with the useful and inspirational content you’ve come to rely on from the region’s top home and garden publication. Inside, you’ll find a variety of spectacular lake residences showcased with stunning photography, along with an in-depth story on what has become one of the area’s hottest home accents: firepits. Whether it’s a hardscaped masterpiece or an affordable, portable option, lake residents love having attractive, functional and cozy spots to spend time with family and friends. If you’ve got guests coming this year (and who doesn’t?), you’ll want to dive into several stories, including ideas for easy meals to feed a crowd, how to pack a cooler for time spent on the dock or boat, revisiting classic lawn games and a look at the latest and greatest toys to ramp up your on-the-water fun. For decorating inspiration, be sure to read our guide to using a neutral/white palette to achieve a calm (but never boring) design look, as well as the piece on Adirondack chairs, which make an iconic design statement for any lake home. As part of the 50th anniversary coverage, lake resident Katherine Knopf takes a look at area homes built before the creation of the lake that continue to be enjoyed by area families today. HOME staff members also brainstormed their favorite ideas for lake home and garden—50 of them, to be exact. Take a look at these creative tips, pick your favorites and get inspired to make 2016 your best year yet. Cheers to 50 amazing years of Smith Mountain Lake!
—ANDIE GIBSON, SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE HOME EDITOR andie@westwillowpublishing.com
HOME S M I T H M O U N TA I N L A K E
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2016 ANNUAL EDITION PUBLISHER
Julie Pierce EDITOR IN CHIEF
Meridith Ingram SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE EDITOR
Andie Gibson ART DIRECTOR
Trisha Roth CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jeremy Angione Cynthia BeMent Lucy Cook Laurel Feinman Andie Gibson Jerry Hale Megan Hall Patricia C Held Megan Jansen Katherine Fulghum Knopf Christy Rippel Rory Rhodes GRAPHIC ARTIST
Amanda Adams PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Beth Moore PHOTOGRAPHERS
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Smith Mountain Lake HOME is published annually by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@smlhomemagazine.com. To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Smith Mountain Lake HOME at info@smlhomemagazine.com.
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Copyright 2016 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.
S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
contents S m i t h M o u nt a in L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
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98
16 44 108
features HOT T REN D: F I REP I T S
A firepit for every taste, every budget BY AN D I E G I B S O N
RE MEM BER W H EN ‌
A look at Smith Mountain Lake before the lake BY K ATH E R I N E F U LG H U M K N O P F
FRE SH A N D F U N AT 5 0
Celebrate 50 years of Smith Mountain Lake with 50 ideas for home and garden
showcase homes
A look at four spectacular Smith Mountain Lake homes
Cover photography by Craig Shaffer at the home of Valerie and Mike Lyons
28 56 80 98
Firepit by Southern Landscape Group
BY AN D I E G I B S O N
THE BA RBER H OM E:
How one family lives lake life to the fullest THE LY ON S H OM E:
A serene oasis away from city life
THE HA L L H OM E:
A warm, carefree villa leaves time for other interests THE DAV EN P OR T H OM E:
Old-World retreat sets scene for family and friends
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HOME Magazine smlhomemaga zine .com 13
S m i t h M o u nt a in L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
departments 36
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94
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DESIGN
IMPROVE
GARDEN
LIVE
23 A N E UTR AL PALETTE How neutral decor can be anything but boring
52 WATE R TOYS Amp up the fun with the newest water toys
BY C H R I STY R I P P E L
BY J E R RY HALE
36 L ESS G RA SS, M ORE F U N Ideas for low-maintenance landscapes
40 M EA L S F O R A C ROW D Feed a large party—and still have fun
BY R O RY R H O D ES
BY LU CY C O O K
77 A D I ROND AC K C H A IR S A look at an iconic classic
105 POWE R UP: GE N ERATORS Don’t get left in the dark
BY LAU R E L F E I N MAN
BY J E R RY HALE
67 A SP OT OF SH A DE Shade structures to add a touch of “cool”
72 L AW N G AME S Fresh takes on outdoor games
BY J E R E MY AN G I O N E
BY M EGAN HALL
90 O P T I ONS IN F L O OR ING What’s new underfoot
87 BU Z Z OF F ! Mosquito-repellant plants
BY CYNTH IA B E M E NT
BY PATR I C IA C. H E LD
94 PA C K A P I C N I C Tips for picnics on deck or dock BY M EGAN JAN S E N
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87 S P E C IAL INTEREST 1 1 4 Index of advertisers 14
23 S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
OYSTER PERPETUAL 39
rolex
oyster and perpetual are
速
trademarks.
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A Hot Trend at SML BY A N D I E G I B S O N P h ot o gr a p hy by : Cr a i g S h af fe r a n d KG T hi e n e m a nn
D e si gn e d a n d ins t a ll e d by S o u t h e r n L a n dsc a p e Gro up P h ot o gr a p hy by Cr a i g S haf fe r 16
S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Imagine a crisp, cool evening spent gathered around a roaring fire. Kids giggle as they toast marshmallows to construct the perfect s’mores. Grownups sit back, unwind and swap stories. With all the fun and fellowship of a campfire—without ever leaving the comfort of your own backyard—it’s no wonder firepits have become the must-have outdoor item for homeowners at Smith Mountain Lake. Firepits are attractive, functional and provide a cozy spot to spend time with family and friends — relaxing, entertaining and socializing. And thanks to Virginia’s temperate climate, they’re often used year-round at Smith Mountain Lake. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles, there’s a firepit to fit every budget. So whether you choose a lowcost tabletop model, an upscale, hardscaped masterpiece or something in between, the memories you make around your firepit are sure to be worth the investment. High-End Hardscape
Many Smith Mountain Lake homeowners choose to incorporate firepits into their landscaping plans during construction or as a post-building upgrade. In 2014, Chris Mabry added a hardscaped patio area to his parttime residence in Saunders Point on Craddock Creek that includes a firepit and torches fueled by propane. Chris says the goal was to create an area near the water for friends to gather year-round and where he could spend quality time with family, including his three daughters. “I really wanted a spot that was inviting and had some ambiance for entertaining groups of people,” says Chris, who owns Mabry Automotive Group in Lynchburg. “We use it pretty much all year. It’s definitely a conversation area.” Mark Maslow, owner of Southern Landscape Group, the Lynchburgbased company that designed and installed the project, says taking advantage of the property’s exceptional view of Smith Mountain was a major consideration. “No one has their back to the lake [when seated at the firepit],” says Maslow. “It has a retaining wall behind it that allows for even more seating capacity.” All natural stone materials were used in the construction, including flagstone with a thermal treatment to provide a smooth surface. The steps are natural slabs of stone that are maintenance free and the retaining wall includes a stone veneer designed to match the exterior of the home. The firepit and torches are connected to a 500-gallon underground fuel tank, which also feeds the house. Propane’s advantages include no wood to gather and stoke, no embers and no ashes to clean up. The firepit lights with the flip of a switch. Another bonus is not having to deal with smoke or smoky-smelling clothes. “That’s something I really like and my guests appreciate it, too,” Chris says. smlhomemaga zine .com 17
P h ot o gr a p hy by KG T hi e n e m a nn
Custom Cauldron
The firepit at the lakefront home of Matt, Nancy and Luke Erikson truly is one of a kind. The family commissioned Duke Easley of Virginia FirePit to create a steel firepit with a lake-themed design, which they positioned on a sandy, beach-like terrace between their home and dock. The family had seen examples of Easley’s work at community events in Martinsville, where the company is based and where the Eriksons lived before moving to the south side of SML in 2009. “When we had the opportunity to remodel and do some landscaping, we knew we wanted to have a firepit area and jumped at the chance to customize our firepit for the lake,” says Nancy Erikson, who collaborated with Easley on a design to represent the family’s new lake lifestyle: “Smith Mountain Lake” spelled out on one side and their last name and sailboats on the other. “I think it turned out great,” Nancy says. “I love the design, and the generous size of the bowl [36-inch model] allows us to make a small fire for just the three of us or a raging inferno when there is a larger group … We use it primarily when entertaining and sometimes just for quiet family time. Our son is now a 1 8
teenager so it’s becoming a hangout spot for his friends. There are a lot of s’mores cooked over that fire.” Easley, who started his business in 2006, works with customers individually, brainstorming ideas and creating original designs. Clients generally come to a final decision after a little tweaking and a few emails back and forth. Then Easley gets to work fabricating the firepit from 3/16-inch steel plates. He uses a CNC (computer numerical control) plasma cutter to cut out the designs, which create a striking silhouette when the firepit is lit at night. The whole process takes just a few weeks. “Some of the cooler ones we’re doing now are the college designs,” Easley says. “I also have customers who will send sketches of what they’d like and we’re able to work something up based on those.” Virginia FirePit’s creations come in three sizes and start at $385 for the 24-inch model, which includes a metal cover for when the firepit is not in use. For those who want to use their firepit for cooking, grill inserts that fit into a grooved edge are sold separately. Easley says the firepits require minimal maintenance. “Take a wire brush to it once a year and repaint occasionally with RustOleum high-temperature paint,” he says. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
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Long-time SML residents Dan and Joanne Shervey added a firepit to their lakefront landscape in 2009, opting to design and install the project themselves with help from their then-teenage son Joe, friends and neighbors. “Everyone had a firepit where I grew up,” says Dan, who was raised on a lake in Wisconsin. “It was just a neat place to gather and have a good time. In the back of my mind I always wanted to have one here. “What I planned to do was finish off the retaining wall in an area of our yard that basically was unusable. And when I did that, we ended up with a flat area, and I thought that would be a neat place for a firepit. I didn’t have a formal plan. I just looked at the lay of the land and designed it on the fly.” The handy homeowners used landscaping stone and retaining wall block to incorporate additional seating around the firepit. They also built two wooden benches and a small shed to house firewood. Dan estimated the cost of materials for the project at $600, “plus a few cases of beer for my friends who came over to help.” Additional money was spent on sod, which Joanne says contributes to the area’s cozy, comfortable atmosphere. But Dan says that’s a decision he might make differently if they were constructing the project today. “The grass is pretty, but it’s a little more difficult to mow and weed-eat around it. Gravel or pavers might have been a better choice,” he says, also noting that some construction know-how is essential for anyone considering a DIY firepit. “If you’re not used to doing stuff like that, it’s probably best to buy some plans and a kit. Places like Capps [Home Building Center] sell them now. And it’s important to have good friends who are willing to do some manual labor,” Dan says. “A lot of what I had to do was by hand—picking and shoveling, digging out in that red clay. And you’ve got to make sure you’re up for the pavers. They weigh 80 pounds each.” The Sherveys say they primarily use the area in the spring and fall, but also will fire up the pit when hosting summertime dock parties. Using a tripod grill purchased at a camping supply store, they cook items such as hot dogs, brats, chicken and s’mores. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Affordable and Portable
If you’re looking for convenience and affordability, a variety of smaller firepits are available at home improvement stores, including many that are portable. For as low as $59 you can pick up a woodburning model that’s easy to load, rust resistant and includes a screened cover. Portable gas models also are available, starting at around $99 at big-box stores. For those willing to spend a little more, firepit tables have also gained popularity in recent years. Often the centerpiece of a porch or patio seating area, these models offer the benefit of a table (for food and drinks) and the convenience of cleanburning propane gas. Former lake residents Tom and Julie Harkema chose a firepit table from Agio Patio Furniture when they decided to replace the outdoor furniture on their deck last year. “We wanted something different than what everyone else has and something that would take up less space than previous furniture,” says Julie. “And we wanted it to be easy to have conversations around. We mostly use it for entertaining friends.” The table, which was $2,300, burns propane so there’s no mess or smoke. “I love how easy it is to turn on and it also has a great cover that is easy to put on and protect it from bad weather,” Julie says. “We do also enjoy a good fire while camping so this was one way for us to enjoy a fire at home without the mess of a real fire.”
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TIPS FOR FIREPITS Considering a firepit? Mark Maslow of Southern Landscape Group offers these suggestions: ■ Decide if you want wood-burning or gas-burning. If wood, think about where you will get the wood and where will you store it. ■ Consider the location. If your firepit will burn wood, you want to position it so the prevailing winds don’t blow smoke toward your home or covered porches. You also don’t want to block views from other outdoor areas or from inside your home. ■M ake sure the firepit is located in a convenient spot to ensure you’ll actually use it. ■U nderstand how big of an area you want to incorporate. If you’re not sure, consult a landscaping professional. ■C onsider how big you want your firepit. Propane and woodburning firepits require different capacities. You’ll also want to consider height. The last thing you want is a firepit that you can’t see the flame in because the firepit is too tall.
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n DESIGN NEUTRAL PALETTES
The Perfect Palette Create a restful retreat using neutral color schemes
BY CH R IS T Y R I P P EL
When making decor decisions, many homeowners gravitate toward a neutral color palette, and for good reason: the best neutral rooms have maximum staying power and create a relaxing vibe—which also happens to be perfect for lake living. But if you think beige means boring and gray means dull, read on to find out how you can create a neutral scheme that really stands out. “The point of a neutral palette is to be soft on the eye, and to focus the attention on something other than color, like a great architectural detail or a wonderful view,” says Sydney Dalton, a designer with PAC Interiors and Floor Fashions in Moneta. Is there a stunning lake scene or mountain vista outside your window? Show it off with a subdued palette that lets your view really shine. Or if you’ve invested in beautiful woodwork or a rustic beamed ceiling, draw the eye to it by muting the color scheme; loud walls or furnishings will detract from the best your room has to offer. smlhomemaga zine .com 2 3
Vary the Shades
Pick up a beige paint strip from the hardware or paint store, and you’ll see that though all the colors on it could be classified as beige, they are all varied in tone, which makes them more interesting when viewed together. Think of your room this same way; varying the tones of your chosen color or colors will create depth and interest. “If you don’t use different shades, the room will be one big blur and nothing will stand out,” says Janice Thurman, decorator and owner of Envisions Distinctive Interiors in Wirtz. “You’ve got to have some contrast.” You can aim for variation by choosing different but coordinating tones for the upholstery, walls, flooring, window treatments and accessories. Viewing samples of paint and swatches of fabric and flooring together is helpful before making final selections. Neutral doesn’t have to mean white, cream, gray or beige; green, blue and even pink in very muted shades can read as neutral, too. But if you are choosing a paint color, Thurman says be sure to paint a large sample board and hang it in the room, since lighting can drastically change how a paint color appears. A tiny paint chip that looks like a hint of green might be too dark in your room, throwing off the vibe you are trying to create. “The new neutral that has taken the design world by storm is gray,” says Jessica Wimmer of Designer Solutions in Moneta. “Gray is seen in everything from fabrics to hardwood flooring to cabinetry and countertops. Whether your design concept is traditional, transitional, contemporary, coastal or rustic, there are some beautiful gray tones that work well with them all.”
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If you are looking for a final color touch in a room, go black. Like the little black dress in your wardrobe, black is a hardworking color that, in small doses, never disappoints. If you are following the gray trend, a way to make your room cozy instead of concrete cold is to go for a warmer gray, or a greige (gray/beige). Some jumping-off colors to try on your sample boards are Benjamin Moore Pale Oak (OC-20) or Sherwin-Williams Keystone Gray (SW 7504). If you’ve stayed in a neutral zone and varied the tone of your flooring, walls and upholstery, you can have fun with pops of color in your accessories. These can be swapped in and out with the change in seasons, or if you are prone to boredom, it’s a great way to mix it up without spending a bundle. Looking for an “it” color to punch up your palette? Try burgundy with your gray scheme, says Dalton. “Burgundy is a dramatic color that brings a rich warmth to the space and really complements grays well.” Red is always a good boost for beige; watery blues paired with beige evoke a sand and sea palette that is tried and true, and shades of green in a neutral scheme bring the outdoors in. If you are looking for a final color touch in a room, go black. Like the little black dress in your wardrobe, black is a hardworking color that, in small doses, never disappoints. “A little bit of black in a room can ground things,” says Thurman. “A collection of black frames works, or try a black lamp or lamp shade.” smlhomemaga zine .com 25
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Southern Roots
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Emphasize Texture
When your colors are muted, texture takes the stage. This is an opportunity to treat the eye with different fabrics and materials to add layers of interest to the room and is an absolute must in a neutral scheme. “Don’t by shy about texture,” Dalton says. “Go with what feels good and appeals to both touch and sight.” She mentions faux fur, leather, pieces of furniture with raw wood edges, and warm metals like bronze and copper. When color isn’t the key player, shapes are also more evident. Interesting shapes, like a driftwood lamp or a hammered metal side table, will get maximum impact when they are allowed to shine in a neutral scheme. A rough-hewn wood floor, a large-scale geometric print rug, and textured wallpaper are other ideas to add layers to your room. And don’t forget to look up: a painted, wallpapered or planked ceiling are all options. A stunning light fixture that combines textures and finishes, like burnished metal with rope, adds visual interest in an unexpected place. Some easy ways to bring texture into the room? Thurman likes baskets, and a few interesting pieces for a bookshelf or display that speak to the homeowner’s interest. While experts caution us to stay away from going too far with obvious themes (like boating, for example), a beautiful model boat or another treasure can be a great addition to the room. Some parting advice on texture? “Matchy-matchy is a bad thing,” says Dalton. So don’t walk into a furniture store and buy the matching couch, love seat and chair. Vary the materials and shapes, and your room will look collected instead of straight off the showroom floor. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Another way to add visual impact is with prints and patterns; they have a place in neutral schemes as well as colorful ones. If all of the upholstery, rugs and window coverings are solid, this is when neutral leans towards boring. “Prints are a great way to add a little personality and excitement to the overall neutral scheme,” says Wimmer. “There are also some great prints that maintain a neutral background but add in some light pops of color to really set them apart in the room.” If picking out patterns and prints overwhelms you, consider working with a designer to help you tastefully incorporate them into your room. “Don’t be intimidated by working with a designer,” says Dalton. “People are often drawn to multiple different styles, but sometimes when put together the flow in the room doesn’t work. We are trained to make the flow work, and take the stress out of the process.”
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ome H At
with the
Barbers
Living lake life to the fullest BY A N D I E G I B S O N P h ot o gr a p hy by D o n Pet e r se n
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N
o one can accuse the Barber family of not taking full advantage of their idyllic property on the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. While the family of four lives here year-round, their home and dock in The Boardwalk is buzzing with activity nearly every weekend from May through September. Swimming, floating, jumping, lounging, dining, boating, jet-skiing and wakeboarding are just a few of the ways the Barbers, their family and their friends get maximum enjoyment out of the lake. “We just really like entertaining and planned this home to take advantage of that,” says Don Barber, a pilot for UPS. “We chose The Boardwalk because it was affiliated with [The Waterfront] country club and because of the amenities—swimming pool, walking paths. It’s a good family spot.” Barber and his wife, Cindy, who owns a bookkeeping firm, built the house in 1998 to accommodate their growing family. They moved in on son Jake’s first birthday in June 1999, and daughter Emma was born in 2001. The two-level home has a French-country feel, with Dryvit exterior accented with stone. It features an open-concept floor plan, five bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms in approximately 5,000 square feet. The primary design concept for the home, the third built in The Boardwalk, was to maximize views without sacrificing privacy. “We wanted views of the lake from every room,” says Don. “We wanted to be able to sit on our back deck and make sure we didn’t see any future neighbors.” Another requirement the Barbers had was that the most popular outdoor spaces also needed to be covered to provide shade. “If it wasn’t covered, we wouldn’t use it,” Don says. “We learned that from our first home. Here, if it’s warm or if it’s rainy, you can still use the outdoor space.” smlhomemaga zine .com 29
The Barbers painted their existing cabinets for an instant kitchen update. They also removed a row of upper cabinets and cut an arched opening in the wall, allowing in more natural light and creating a fun bar area framed with custom molding. 3 0
BEFORE
BEFORE
B efo re p h ot o s c o ur t e s y of Cin d y B a r b e r
Kitchen Central
Having an open, functional kitchen for everyday cooking as well as accommodating the masses was another important consideration when the Barbers planned their home, Cindy explains. But with a frequent stream of people and pets coming in and out from the lake, the kitchen started to show significant wear and tear a few years ago. “The hardwood floors were totally worn out and needed to be replaced. The traffic patterns were just ridiculous. In one spot there was no finish, no color left. That kind of started everything,” says Cindy, describing when it became clear they needed to renovate the kitchen and adjacent dining nook. Not only would a renovation help solve the problem of worn floors, it would allow the Barbers to make a number of other upgrades, including updating the dark cherry cabinets, removing entryway columns to provide better flow, and opening one wall up to the main dining and living area.
“I felt like the cabinets really dated the house. The finish was coming off and they just seemed old,” Cindy says. Structurally, however, the cabinets were in good shape, so rather than a costly replacement, the Barbers chose to paint them a cream color to complement the original black granite countertops, which stayed. One exception was the bar area where the cabinets were converted to a black finish to provide contrast. Dan DeNeal, owner of DeNeal’s Cabinets at Westlake Corner, helped the Barbers devise a plan to remove upper cabinets on one wall and replace them with an arched opening and small bar area framed with custom molding. The result is a space that appears bigger and provides more natural light. “We really like the way it turned out,” Cindy says. “I had a hard time explaining my vision to a few cabinet people but Dan got it right away. He was able to open it up and tie the opening into the shape of the mantel in the living room.” After living in the home for so many years, the Barbers also decided they didn’t need two dining spaces and opted to rework the breakfast nook. Banquette seating and a small table now fill one corner and a large, upholstered chair occupies the other. In addition, DeNeal added a few new cabinets to match the freshly painted ones and accommodate a wine bar and coffee area. “It’s seamless,” Cindy says. “You can’t tell that these cabinets are 15 years old and those are brand new. The new granite additions match exactly, and the hardware Dan helped me pick out made it all come together. “Now it’s more of a keeping room. Don sits there all the time in the oversized chair with the dogs at his feet. He loves that room.” S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
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The Dock and Beyond
P h ot o gr a p hy by A n di e Gib so n
From sunrise to sunset on warm weekends, the Barbers and crew can be found down on the dock enjoying the lake from a variety of areas. There’s a stationary dock, boat slip, floating dock, several seating areas, and a small bar for serving up snacks and drinks. “It’s a gathering place, probably even more so than the kitchen,” Cindy says. “People come by land. People come by boat. Most bring food and we have a full fridge down there, so we’ll pretty much pack up for the day and have lunch, snacks and drinks down on the dock.” A storage room houses lifejackets, float “noodles” and other toys for water fun. Floating just beyond the dock (but anchored so it doesn’t float away) is a giant inflatable that kids of all ages enjoy. Called “Jungle Joe,” it accommodates climbing, lounging, sliding and jumping. There’s also an anchored swim dock halfway between the Barbers’ dock and that of their neighbors. “We wanted to hang out with them more so we went in together on the swim dock so we’d have a mutual meeting ground,” Cindy says. “A lot of time the floating dock is full of boats and jet skis so it’s not a good place to swim. With the swim dock, you can go out there and have quiet time or you can send the kids out there to roughhouse and play ‘king of the dock.’ It’s also a good place to rest.”
P h ot o gr a p hy by A n di e Gib so n 3 2
S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
P h ot o gr a p hy by A n di e Gib so n
smlhomemaga zine .com 3 3
Lower Level
The large, open space features an oversized bar, comfortable seating and a wood-burning fireplace. Traffic and other colorful signs the family has collected over the years decorate the walls, and there’s a kiddie corner with a mini play kitchen and toys for the youngest guests.
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The whimsical lower level of the Barbers’ home is where the action takes place in the colder months or when the weather is uncooperative. “It’s a great place to retreat to when we’re entertaining on the dock and it rains,” Don says. “It’s an easy transition. We use it for football parties, New Year’s Eve parties, winter movie nights, all kinds of different things.” The large, open space features an oversized bar, comfortable seating and a wood-burning fireplace. Traffic and other colorful signs the family has collected over the years decorate the walls, and there’s a kiddie corner with a mini play kitchen and toys for the youngest guests. Older kids and adults also enjoy the lower level’s abundant options for entertainment: pool, pinball, darts and corn hole. One of the Barber family’s favorite traditions is their annual New Year’s Eve party, where guests pair up and compete against each other in all of the games. Points are tallied and, at the end of the night, champions are crowned with bragging rights until the following year’s festivities. “It’s super fun,” Don says. “It’s like an amusement park in a box.” A bedroom, gaming area with overflow bunk space and a full bath accommodate the multitude of guests. However, much like the upstairs kitchen, the lower level is starting to show signs of age from all the traffic, Cindy says. “We’re so happy with the kitchen renovation that we may set our sights on the basement as the next project,” Cindy says. “I’d love to lighten it up, replace the carpeting with more durable flooring and extend the bathroom so guests have more space. We absolutely love the lifestyle here and living on the lake, so I think this home is going to be a work in progress for a while.”
S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
n GARDEN LOW-MAINTENANCE LAWNS
Less Grass, More Fun BY R O RY R H O D ES
One of the delights of our part of the world is the rolling terrain. Grassy fields and hills provide scenic vistas aplenty, and nowhere is this more evident than around Smith Mountain Lake. But while a green lawn has long been the gold standard, increasingly, homeowners are looking for lowmaintenance alternatives that free up time and effort without sacrificing curb (and dock) appeal. If you’d like to spend less time mowing and more time relaxing, here are some ideas to consider. 36
S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
CREEPING PHLOX
JAPANESE PACHYSANDRA
PERIWINKLE GROUNDCOVER
groundcovers, does well under trees. It also has a variegated version. Creeping phlox has a grassy texture and is good for sunny spots. In spring it will erupt in a carpet of blooms—generally pink, purple, or white—and it also cascades beautifully over terraces and rock walls. Some creeping jasmines are hardy enough for Virginia winters (check with local nursery professionals for cultivars) and have the added benefit of that heavenly smell when in bloom. A less familiar option is Aaron’s Beard, (also known as “Creeping St. John’s Wort”) whose relatively new “Brigadoon” cultivar has golden leaves and yellow summer blooms that will brighten a Evergreens shady spot. Evergreen and semi-evergreen For evergreen shrub groundcovers, groundcovers provide year-round interest. Scotch heather has a delicate, feathery Periwinkle (also known as “vinca”), texture and small purple, pink, or white with its glossy green leaves and purplish blooms in summer. Dwarf nandina offers springtime flowers, is a popular and year-round color in sunny spots, with attractive low-growing plant with trailing stems. There are several cultivars, including bright green leaves in spring that darken during the summer season and turn red one with variegated leaves, which do well in a variety of conditions and are easy-care during cold months. Consider “Harbour Dwarf,” a low, spreading nandina. Certain once established. Japanese pachysandra cotoneasters are classified as “dwarf” or is another good option. It has dark green “creeping” (any plant with “creeping” foliage, is durable, and, unlike some other Groundcover refers to a low-growing plant, generally with a spreading growth habit, that’s under 3 feet tall. It’s excellent for controlling weeds, reducing soil erosion, and is a relatively easy solution for slopes too steep for mowing. Groundcover can take the form of vines, herbaceous plants, ornamental grasses and even shrubs. While there are many different types of groundcovers to consider, the amount of sunlight and the soil composition on your property will help to narrow down your choices.
in the name is going to be worth considering!). Cotoneasters generally have a bit of a wild, sprawling appearance, along with vivid orange or red autumn berries. In the holly family, “Soft Touch” Dwarf Japanese holly is a tidy, compact shrub which, as its name implies, has no prickles and grows 2 to 3 feet in both height and width. While juniper has suffered from decades of overuse (plus a tendency to brown when exposed to disease or incorrect shearing techniques), there are actually some creeping junipers—there’s that word again!—worth considering. “Shore Juniper” is drought tolerant (like all junipers it requires well-drained soil) and has bluish foliage. “Blue Rug” is only about 5 inches tall and forms a dense mat of silvery-blue needles. Finally, English ivy— traditionally planted under trees thanks to its vigorous growth habit—has fallen somewhat out of favor due to its invasive tendencies. However, it is an extremely effective plant for erosion control. Just remember not to allow it to climb any trees or vertical structures, where it can cause damage.
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Perennial groundcovers, though dormant during winter months, allow you to expand your options for colors and textures. Creeping Jenny is a vigorous grower with cheerful lime-green foliage that turns golden in full sun. Ajuga, also known as “Bugleweed,” goes against the grain by being more vigorous in partial shade than in full sun, though its tendrils are easily redirected. It has dark, chocolatey-green foliage and produces spiky blue blooms in spring. Don’t forget succulents such as hen and chicks, and creeping varieties of sedum which are also known as “stonecrop.” “Dragon’s Blood” sedum features red flowers in summer, and the foliage itself turns red in cool weather. Larger perennial choices include ornamental grasses, such as liriope and dwarf mondo grass, and herbaceous specimens such as hostas and ferns. Both types of plants are available in a range of colors, including variegated. Liriope and mondo grass are also great choices for edging, as their form helps contain mulch and soil. Hostas and ferns can be planted in drifts for a spectacular seasonal display, or used singly as accents. MULCH
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On level ground and gentle slopes, mulch is an easy alternative to grass. (On a steep slope, mulch will wash away unless the slope is terraced.) Mulch looks best when it is broken up by other features, so add a pathway and some plants, if possible, or even a bench or garden ornament. A curving border will soften the effect and add interest, especially if the border is a contrasting element, such as liriope or stone. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
ROCK
Not to be confused with the “rip rap” used to stabilize SML shoreline, specific types of rock can be used in landscape and garden settings to amp up the visual interest. A rock garden is formed from aesthetically arranged rocks in varying sizes, interspersed with plant life. Often tumbling and rugged, this look is especially stunning on a slope. A swale—a low-lying, often-marshy conduit used for water drainage and movement—looks wonderful when lined with smooth, rounded rocks. A meandering route adds enchantment to the swale, as does varying the rock size, and lining it with vegetation. Don’t forget that rocks also can be used in place of hardwood mulch. Pea gravel is charming and, when interspersed with river rock, has an appealingly tranquil quality. Incorporating lawn alternatives into your landscape will give you more time to enjoy your property instead of maintain it. It will also improve the look of your grounds by replacing bare slopes or tired lawns with features that add visual interest, especially when several different landscaping options flow together to create a designer look. Plants with connected root systems help control erosion on slopes, and many plants are an environmentally helpful choice as well, providing a boon for honeybees, birds and butterflies. Replacing grass with mulch or rock can reduce the use of highnitrogen fertilizer and potentially toxic products. With all of these benefits, perhaps this year is a good time to make the switch.
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n LIVE CULINARY CORNER
Feeding a Crowd Meal ideas that won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen BY LU CY CO O K
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I’m always torn: I love entertaining people … I love to invite everyone to stay for dinner … I love eating good food … but I’m not in love with working in the kitchen while others are having fun! Plenty of times, whether at the lake or visiting the beach, I get stuck in the kitchen, when I’d really rather have a glass of wine with my friends and not worry about dinner. We have had many a night at the lake eating frozen casseroles—they make for an effortless dinner, and they work great to keep everything in the cooler cold on the trip over if you are weekending at the lake. But I would prefer to serve a meal that shows a little more individuality and care; a lasagna from the gourmet-to-go is easy and feeds a crowd, but it doesn’t necessarily show off my skills as an entertainer! Here I’ve provided three recipes that make for great dinners that may come in handy at the lake. These dishes are pretty flexible in the number of people they serve and are pretty quick to prepare. One way I like to approach feeding a crowd is to just grill up a big platter of chicken or steak, then add a relish or side dish to make it interesting. If the side is visually attractive and tastes great, no one will notice that you’re serving “just chicken”! The first recipe is for a tomato relish of sorts, which is very versatile. It can be served with simply marinated grilled chicken, fish or steak. It can be made up to two days ahead, so that helps with the workload, especially if you can talk someone else into being the grillmaster. If the dinner crowd gets large, slice the steak or chicken, and arrange it on a platter, with the tomato relish around the sides. If the dinner turns into an even bigger crowd, slice the steak or chicken and serve with the tomato relish over a huge bowl of fresh salad greens or pasta. Everywhere I’ve eaten this year is touting Southern foods. The second recipe is for a classic Southern succotash, great served as a side with burgers or grilled chicken, for an almost meatless dinner with some fresh cornbread. For a more refined dinner, add ½ cup crème fraîche to it and mound in the center of a plate as the base for crabcakes, seared scallops or grilled salmon. I recently resurrected (and updated) a dish that was popular when I was a kid: a layered salad. My mother made this salad in a glass bowl as I do, but I’ve adjusted the ingredients and lightened up the dressing. The protein can be changed—grilled chicken, salmon or shrimp work well, or you could glam it up with lobster. This salad can be made in the morning and held all day in the fridge, which leaves the day free. Happy hosting! smlhomemaga zine .com 41
Tomato Olive Relish (makes about 2½ cups) Cherry tomatoes are always available, but if you make this in the height of summer, use fresh heirloom tomatoes straight from the farmers market (or your garden) for even better results. 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved ½ bunch flat leaf parsley, leaves picked and left whole ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, drained and very coarsely chopped ¼ cup basil leaves, torn into small pieces ¼ cup good-quality olive oil 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
engaged
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate up to two days. Let come to room temperature before serving.
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Summer Succotash (makes about 6 servings) 3 strips of thick-cut bacon 1 large onion, finely diced 2 garlic cloves, chopped ½ pound fresh okra, sliced 3 cups coarsely chopped tomatoes (or halved cherry tomatoes) Kernels cut from 6 ears fresh corn 2 cups shelled fresh butter beans One bunch of fresh chives, thinly sliced Slice the bacon crosswise into ¼ inch pieces. In a large skillet over medium heat, saute the bacon until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon to drain on paper towels, leaving the fat in the skillet. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring until they’ve begun to soften, scraping the brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the okra, tomatoes, corn and butter beans to the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover and cook without stirring for 10
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minutes (stirring makes the okra stringy). Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for another 10 minutes. Taste the butter beans to make sure they’re tender, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chives and bacon, and serve.
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Layered Summer Salad (serves 6) 5 cups baby arugula or other baby greens 2 cups tomatoes, chopped 2 cups yellow peppers, diced 2 cups avocado, diced and sprinkled with the juice of a lemon 2 cups sugar snap peas
To make the salad: Find a large glass container (about 3 quarts) with high, straight sides if possible. Layer the ingredients, spreading each layer evenly over the entire container. The side view should show even colorful layers.
8 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
To make the dressing: Put all the
8 scallions, chopped, both white and green parts
dressing ingredients in a blender or food
2 pounds of cooked shrimp, chunked salmon or chicken
and add salt and pepper as needed.
processor. Process until smooth. Taste Dressing will be thick.
Basil dressing: 1½ cups Duke’s mayonnaise
Put spoonfuls of dressing over the salad.
1½ cups fat-free plain Greek yogurt
Carefully spread them to cover the entire
6 scallions, root and tops trimmed, then cut into 2-inch lengths
top of the dish. Cover with plastic wrap
1 cup packed basil leaves
to serve, after the guests have seen your
Juice of ½ lemon
beautiful layered creation, toss the whole
2 cloves garlic
thing to distribute the dressing, and
Salt and pepper to taste
serve generous portions.
and chill for up to 8 hours. When it’s time
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Ae r i a l v i ew of p owe r h o use a n d A rc h D a m 4 /5 / 63
Before the Lake
The Early Cottages of Smith Mountain Lake Katherine Knopf and her husband Brad both grew up spending their summers on Smith Mountain Lake where they learned to water ski and fish. After graduating from the University of Virginia, Katherine lived in several Virginia cities. A mother of three grown daughters, she currently resides in Roanoke with her husband Brad, and enjoys cooking, gardening, and freelance writing. 4 4
BY K AT H ER I N E F U LG H U M K N O P F
They were built to be summer cottages: a place to slip away to fish and relax by the lake with the family during the summer months. Those were the days of rustic camping; it was the 1960s and getting away with the family meant parents and kids piling in the station wagon and heading outdoors. To these first families of Smith Mountain Lake, it was upscale camping in cottages; simple homes provided a roof and floor to house beds and sofas, and dining usually occurred outside on screened porches and decks overlooking the water. It was peaceful and quiet, and life was so simple. You packed your groceries and headed to the lake, for a weekend, for a week, or for the entire summer. It was the best of times. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Before The Lake
Ae r i a l v i ew l o o k in g up s t re a m sh ow in g o l d To l e r s B r i d g e in fo re gro un d a n d n ew To l e r s B r i d g e in b a c kgro un d 8 /3 1 / 6 2
Lo o k in g so u t h at d a m a re a f ro m p ro p o se d ove r l o o k si t e 8 /3 1 / 6 2
Smith Mountain Lake started with three waterways and Southwest Virginia’s growing demand for electricity. Appalachian Power decided to build the dam and create the lake in 1963. It was an unusual lake that developed— not a typical round one. Smith Mountain Lake came together from three tributaries: the Roanoke River, the Blackwater River and Gills Creek. These three waterways filled into a main body that encompasses more than 500 miles of shoreline. The water filled in over the rural farmland that was flooded once the dam was set and finished in 1963. By 1966, the lake was formed. The shoreline and land around it was mostly untouched as the water slowly rose to full pond. A few trailers and lake cabins made up the modest homes that sat on the waterfront in those days.
More were built in the following decade, making the lake a true rural retreat. From these simple beginnings, a variety of interests surfaced. Fishing, camping and boating topped the interest of locals. Everyone wanted to be involved. A lake in southern Virginia? No one knew what the whole endeavor would become. Locally, it was naturally a hot commodity the minute Appalachian Power Company released the land for sale. Then farmers started selling their land around the lake. Everyone wanted their little piece; it was the Wild West in Southwest Virginia. Lots sold before the water filled in went for $500 to $1,000, whereas the ones sold just after the lake filled started around $4,000. “Grab your parcel and build your place” was the reigning motto.
Ae r i a l v i ew sh ow in g t y p i c a l c l e a r in g fo r l owe r re se r vo ir 8 /3 1 / 6 2 P h ot o s c o ur t e s y of A p p a l a c hi a n Powe r smlhomemaga zine .com 4 5
O r i gina l c ot t a g e s a s t h ey s t a n d t o d ay
Many new lot owners did just that. My husband and I both grew up summering on the lake in our family cabins. Our parents and their friends bought kits to build their cabins or drew rough plans and had the lumber delivered to the site. A few of the cabins were factory-built and transported to the lot with decks and porches attached to them once they were placed. Weekends were for fishing, camping and raising the timbers. If that wasn’t your forte then there were plenty of eager carpenters. Mostly these homes were built by hand by homeowners and local carpenters on site, and that gave them the charm that endures today. Some were trailer homes or little cabins framed by hand with the roof trusses delivered to the site and nailed together by brothers and fathers, but each one is unique: they were individualized by each family’s particular vacation life philosophy. This is the way we roll. It All Started With The Lots
These early lake dwellers bought lots from Appalachian Power and from farmersturned-real estate agents who sold their land surrounding the lake by carting prospective buyers down dirt roads, sometimes in the back of a wagon pulled by a tractor. There was little gravel and no pavement leading to the water parcels. If 4 6
the mud was bad, you needed a Jeep or a tractor to get there. These salesmen took you down rural roads, preferably in good weather, and showed you the land. There were white spray-painted lines in the field or stakes with bright orange ribbons flying in the wind. “That’s where your water will start,” they would pitch to the businessmen, doctors, and local workers who longed for a little country getaway. Now these treasured gems are in the second generation. The kids who spent summers roasting hot dogs on camp fires and swam for hours in the dark cold water full of submerged trees are inheriting the places. These youngsters grew up on Smith Mountain Lake; they learned to fish and water ski there. It was quite a way to learn these skills; as you boated in those days you watched out for pieces of old red barns floating in the water. Since the farmland bought by Appalachian Power was then vacated by the owners, it contained old, empty buildings as well as shrubs and trees. The land was flooded just as it sat—complete with farmhouses, barns, outhouses, sheds and vegetation. Anything that couldn’t be hauled away was left to slowly be immersed as the lake filled as the waters rose. Skiers became adept at zigzagging to avoid hitting floating boards, tree limbs and logs as they flew all over this remote
lake behind a little ski boat or canopied pontoon. Eventually, there were ski courses built for the ones who became experts, because there was plenty of remote space on the water to place them. Old milk jugs anchored down at just the right spot made for daring turns and jumps in order to avoid colliding with them. They were impressive early in the morning when the lake was quiet and the only sound was the boat engine humming as it pulled the skier along. Ski gloves and even wetsuits were the dress on cold days. It was such a rush when you could ski the whole course without hitting a buoy or missing one. The big wooden jumps were for the real experts. There were not many marinas in those days, so a trip for gas was often a long one. The original marinas bore little resemblance to those today. They looked like small cabins halfway up the hill with a hose dangling from an old pump on a dock. Their names reflected their various owners or the family that once owned that land: Lumpkins, Dickey Dill’s Place, Indian Point, Smiths, Paradise Marina. Some of these gas spots are now long gone, but a few of the cabins remain. They have been updated and are used as homes now. Their character reflects the unique history of the businesses and families that once existed there. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
And so, some of these early cottages remain: They are the history of the lake. These summer homes tell the story of the past five decades, and reflect that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Filled with relics of the 60s and 70s, they are the throwbacks even when they have been carefully kept and renovated by the next generation of the family. Many of these first families have strived to keep the same feel. Even the subdivision names tell stories: Merriman Point on the Roanoke River arm was purchased by a local doctor who then sold the lots to his partners and colleagues at Roanoke Memorial Hospital. It was given the nickname “Penicillin Point” because it was known as the place to go if you needed a doctor. Shenandoah Shores was purchased by the CEO of Shenandoah Life Insurance Company who sold lots to the employees. He gave it the name Shenandoah Shores to reflect its history; he sold the land to his employees as a perk. He held a lottery to make it fair. You got to choose your lot in order— those who drew the higher numbers eagerly awaited their turn to purchase a piece of this beautiful land that sat high on a hill of the Blackwater River overlooking the slowly growing lake. Francis Point was named for the local real estate developer who bought acreage up on the Roanoke River. Once the grandfather purchased the land, a slab was poured and a cottage built overlooking the wide mouth of the Roanoke River. The years moved along and a swimming pool was added; then a bunkroom, patio and a firepit to hold the growing family and their friends. The family still owns that house today as the cove behind it slowly fills with neighboring houses.
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Second-generation homeowners work hard to keep up these family lake homes, preserving the old-time feel and traditions and making modifications only when necessary. One such homeowner talks about her family’s labor of love. “We want to do [the work]. We want this place and this lifestyle to be there for our kids, just as our parents built it for us. In fact, I just got back from the lake this morning. We are building a new dock; it’s time—the first one is over 40 years old. We want to carry the tradition along,” she says. Most families have kept as much as possible the same to convey the original feeling of the lake. A place to gather and relax is the aspiration, though it’s busier now with more homes and boats on the water. It’s easier to get provisions with Westlake and several shopping centers, but once you are in one of these charming cottages, you are transported back to a simpler time. These houses have just what they need to feel like home. They offer the basics, with each one showing the unique touches of that family. Hooked rugs or sisal floor coverings, lots of quilts and blankets in the bedrooms, porch swings, Adirondack chairs, and hammocks in the yard make them inviting spots. Firepits are built of stone for roasting marshmallows and burning up driftwood that floats up on shore. From dinner bells outside the door to the photos on the wall, these relics tell the stories of the early days at the lake. Most old homes display a map of the lake. These maps are often dotted with markings to show how to get to a friend’s house or where is the closest place for gas. Pictures show how houses grew up out of the ground—first the lot before S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Photography by Sam Smith courtesy of Freda Smith
Smith family having a picnic under Hale's Ford Bridge in 1963 before lake fills up
Photography by Flo Bernard courtesy of Freda Smith
VISA Sailing Club 1975 with Bernard's Landing Peninsula Point in background
Photography by Flo Bernard courtesy of Freda Smith
Bernard's Landing going down Peninsula Point 1950
Are you or someone you know
the house, then several of the house being built a stick at a time. One friend recalls packing a lunch and going to the site on Saturdays with her dad and her sister. As he worked on the house, she and her sister played tag between the wall studs. My husband recalls heading to the lake in the station wagon with his siblings. Before their house was built—sketched on paper by his father and stick-built by a local carpenter—they camped. Dinners were hotdogs or hamburgers on a small grill. There was a port-a-potty for the girls behind the shed. Life was basic. Once the cabin was complete, there was still that matter of the yard. The house sat on top of the hill and they needed a path to the lake. Thus, their father saw easy, free labor in his three sons so he designed a walkway of railroad timbers and gravel for them to build on weekends. “My brothers and I nicknamed it the Burma Road one day as we slowly lugged all that the heavy wood and gravel down the hill towards the water. There was always a good deal of wood and stone to be hauled and placed before we could swim and roam free on the weekends. We skidded lots of wheelbarrow loads of rock down a slippery hill over the years,” he says.
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As one friend recalls, “Back then, there was nothing around us. Rocky Mount was the closet grocery store. My mom made friends with the local farmers so she could buy vegetables and produce. We always ran for the boat when Dad needed to go get gas. The marinas had penny candy and that was a big treat.” These are the people who pioneered SML; it became what it is today because of them and their belief that a little summer cabin on the lake represents the best of life. These trendsetters bought lots in a field and built houses based upon what they were told would happen: a lake would appear on the edge of their lot in a few years. Looking back on 50 years, this is how the lake came to be the wonderful community that it now is. Their vision and foresight created many precious places there to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A lake in the mountains has to be one of the finest gifts nature and man have made together. Next time you are out on the lake, take a moment as you boat along and notice the small cottages along the lake. In between the big, modern houses, these hidden gems portray the history of the families who started the lake life that we all love today.
A lake in the mountains has to be one of the finest gifts nature and man have made together.
Former site of the Smith Marina
It takes clarity to ensure a vision. At Ayers Financial Services, we have a unique understanding of the full breadth of financial planning services required to help you reach your goals—including more than 20 years of experence—right here in the area. But planning for the future requires dedication now—building a portfolio that best reflects your goals, and ultimately, protecting what we build, together. So for our clients who are dedicated to creating a legacy, we are equally as driven to create a plan for your success. Ayers Financial. Forward Thinking. Trusted Advice.
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n IMPROVE FUN WITH WATER TOYS
Water Toys
FLOATING FUN TO AMP UP YOUR WATERFRONT GAME BY J ER RY H A L E
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If you spend any time at all at Smith Mountain Lake, you’ve discovered how the lure of the lake’s pleasant waters can be too strong to resist. You just have to get in that water to relax, cool off and luxuriate with family and friends. For adults and kids alike, that’s where an assortment of the latest water toys can add a variety of fun improvements to your lake life. And so we present a few suggestions to “wet” your appetite for fun in and on the water. All of these immersion diversions are of the humanpropelled variety: no fuel, no fumes and no noise—save for the splashes and giggles of water lovers having memorable times together.
Get In, Stay In!
SML’s warm summer water temperatures—typically near 90 degrees from mid-July to late August—mean people can spend hours playing in the water without getting chilled. So the popularity of kick-back inflatable islands is not surprising. These have evolved recently, from simple trampoline-like circular floats used mostly for kid bouncing … to large foam pads for sliding and water-level sunbathing … to complex floating “climbing mountains” and miniplaygrounds that sell for many thousands of dollars. Adult-appeal lily pads now feature multiple drink holders, climbaboard access openings and even sun roofs. In sizes up to and beyond 8 feet by 10 feet, these floats become irresistible extensions of dock or beach entertaining space. Cindy and Mark Dougherty bought their sun-bathing island last year, their first summer at their SML getaway on the Blackwater River. “We saw it on sale for about $120 at Costco and just bought it on impulse. We enjoyed it so much that first afternoon, we decided it was worth the money for that day alone!” Cindy says. The relatively new foam-mat variety of floating islands really caught on last year, according to Jake Jacobsen, dock manager at Bridgewater Marina, an SML go-to place for water-fun items. Well-suited to kids, whose lounging often turns to (or begins with) rough-housing that can
puncture inflatables, these multi-layered water carpets range from a one-person raft size up to 6 feet by 20 feet, which will handle a half-dozen sun-bathing adults. “We had a bunch of marina employees playing on one in the Bridgewater harbor last summer,” Jacobsen says. “It nicely supported attempts at cartwheels and handstands.” Prices range up to and beyond $799, depending on size and thickness. There’s also a companion “Pooch Pad” ($50) that features a nail-resistant surface—perfect for having Fido join the lounging party without climbing on other guests. Manufacturer O’Brien recommends hauling mats out when not in use and provides cases for rolled storage. The larger ones require a couple of adults to handle, and take up significant floor space in a dock’s storage shed. Inflatables are more easily stored, and can be collapsed. But let them dry thoroughly before rolling them up to prevent mildew and potential damage caused by sticking one surface to another. Somewhat smaller (yet, according to marketing photos, able to support four teens fairly high and dry) is an inflatable mat called “WOW Water Walkway.” Suited to either lakefront or pool, it sells online for under $200 at Overtons.com, a popular online retailer of boating and other watersport merchandise.
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Stealth Boats, Kayak-Style
For those who want to make some headway while afloat— perhaps to explore nearby coves in search of bass or just scenery and solitude—a wide range of kayak-style paddle craft fit the bill. Inflatables, molded hulls, kayaks suited for fishing, touring or just recreational paddling—plus all kinds of related gear—can be viewed at paddling.net, presented in buyers’ guide fashion, including links to manufacturers’ websites. Local sources for shoppers who want to see and touch before purchasing include big-box discount and sporting goods stores, plus smaller outdoor outfitters. Smith Mountain Wake at Bridgewater Plaza offers made-in-Virginia Coastal Kayaks, and the Southern States General Store in Union Hall stocks kayaks as well. Some models made by Hobie Cat now come equipped with a patented hands-free pedal propulsion and steering system. Finlike protrusions adapt to shallow water and can be feathered flat against the kayak’s bottom for beaching. Also among Hobie’s kayak offerings is an inflatable fishing kayak—the “i9S”—that will cost you nearly $2,000 (plus substantial shipping if bought online). But reviews for the product on Amazon.com are 5-star, with one buyer raving, “Liked it so much we ordered a second.”
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Boaters who spend any time idling along quiet shorelines know that stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are all the rage among the summer-fun crowd. Entry-level boards are usually plastic or vinyl construction; inflatable models are more expensive, pump up amazingly rigid, will support a medium-sized adult, and can be deflated for travel or storage. SUPs can be fun toys for kids to enjoy: endless hours can be spent playing “King of the Board,” arm paddling from belly-down surf-board position, or stand-up paddling along the waterfront. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
“The more advanced ‘touring’ boards, usually epoxy composites, begin in the high hundreds and go upwards to twice that,” says Ken Hayes, owner of Smith Mountain Wake. “You’ll also need a paddle, from $99 to $300. Last year was an incredible sales year for paddleboards of all types. I could barely keep them in stock.” Virginia law requires all paddle boarders to carry or wear a flotation device. Inflatable belt-pouch models are cool and comfortable and are a good alternative once you’re confident enough to stay standing on the board. Beginners will want to use a ski vest, either worn or carried on the board at your feet. An ankle tether to keep the board from scooting out of reach when you take a plunge is also a good idea. And for the Floater Who Has Everything…
Happy to be positioned at the bottom of the float-y toy sophistication scale is the new and appropriately-named “BumFloat.” Quite likely invented by an entrepreneur who observed boaters alongside their anchored boats, using life vests worn diaper-style for hands-above-water (the better to hold a beverage!) flotation support, this purpose-built solution works the same but is designed for comfort and easier on and off. You can probably be the first in your cove to have one of these; the conversation-starter value of the name alone is well worth the $50 ($60 in standard or pink camo) suggested retail at bumfloat.com. Or check out the even simpler O’Brien Water Saddle, available at the Bridgewater Marina store. Are you ready for summer at the lake? From splash pads to paddleboards, there’s a toy for kids of all ages.
Low on sophistication, high on fun: the Bumfloat allows users to bob hands-free.
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View
A Retreat with a BY A N D I E G I B S O N P h ot o g r a p hy by Cr a i g S h af fe r
V
alerie and Mike Lyons have a routine. It’s more of a tradition now, really— something they do after completing the four-hour trek from their home in Northern Virginia to their lakeside retreat in Bedford County. They just can’t help themselves. Regardless of how late it is when they arrive, the Lyons drop their bags at the door, cut through the living room and make a beeline to the back yard. “I just stand on the patio and look at the water and the view,” says Mike. “We just soak it all in and think: ‘Take a deep breath. We’re at the lake now.’” And with a view like this, who could blame them? 56
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Built on a point near the base of Craddock Creek, the home is nestled close to the water and offers a panorama of Smith Mountain. For the Lyons, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Northern Virginia. “Whenever we have guests arrive, and we open the door, and they look straight through to the lake, their mouths drop open,” Valerie says. “Then they say, ‘OK, now I get why you drive four hours.’” The couple first discovered SML about 15 years ago and instantly fell in love, purchasing a condo at Mariners Landing in 2004. While out on their boat, the Lyons would frequently admire the lot where their home now sits. They finally decided to make an offer, snagged the property and began planning their dream home. “We thought we were going to retire, but that hasn’t happened yet,” jokes Mike, who works part time as a consultant in the healthcare sector. Valerie, an executive 5 8
vice president at CACI International, an information solutions and services company, says she immediately purchased a number of house-plan magazines to search for inspiration. “I would go page after page after page until I finally narrowed it down to one that worked for us,” she says, noting that a big consideration was a one-level floor plan that would support the couple as they aged. In 2009, the Lyons hired North Carolina-based Schumacher Homes to build a custom home that would suit their needs while taking full advantage of the view. The house has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms in 3,500 square feet with all the main living areas facing the lake. It comfortably accommodates the couple, as well as their two adult children and a close circle of friends who visit frequently from Memorial Day weekend well into the fall. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Satisfying Every Budget & Style
COUNTERTOPS CABINETRY CLOSETS (540) 719-0128
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Decorated throughout with a soothing palette of teals, greens, browns and creams, the home definitely has a serene vibe— not coastal or rustic but something that embraces the feel of water and mountains. 6 0
Decorated throughout with a soothing palette of teals, greens, browns and creams, the home definitely has a serene vibe—not coastal or rustic but something that embraces the feel of water and mountains. Valerie did much of the decorating work herself, collaborating with long-time interior designer friend Kim Casson of Salmon-Casson Ltd in Reston, and, locally, the staffs at Interiors by Kris and Blinds & Beyond. “We wanted it to have a relaxing B&B [bed and breakfast] feel,” says Mike. “We wanted it to be very inviting.” Valerie says, “I definitely didn’t want it to be a [more formal] NoVa-style house. It needed to be comfortable and casual, but it still needed to be pretty. Mike coined the term ‘lake-y’ – a water feel that brings the outside in.” The main living area is spacious with an open floor plan that connects a formal dining room, great room, bar area with wine cabinet and fridge, gourmet kitchen and a non-traditional breakfast area with plush, upholstered chairs.
“We don’t use the breakfast area much for food. It’s more for having coffee, playing games or a place to gather for cocktails,” Valerie says. “In fact, that’s one thing guests have commented on about the house is that there are so many different places to sit and relax.” Huge windows let abundant morning light stream into the great room, which is dominated by a massive stacked-stone fireplace. An L-shaped couch and chairs in coordinating teal-and-brown fabrics complement the “lake-y” feel of the room. The kitchen is warm with creamcolored glazed cabinets, granite countertops and top-of-the-line appliances. The Lyons are self-proclaimed foodies, with Valerie handling the indoor cooking and Mike in charge of the outdoor grills. (Yes, plural. More on that later). “I had to have the Wolf stove with the red knobs. And the ice machine and wine fridge in the back hallway were critical,” says Valerie, pointing out how the appliances come in handy when the couple entertains, which is frequently. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
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The master bedroom in the Lyons home features a soothing color palette and a sitting area with a stunning view of the lake and Smith Mountain. Also convenient is an adjacent pantry where tableware, linens and decorations for every season and entertaining style are stored along with non-perishable foods. But as much as she enjoys spending time in the kitchen, Valerie says her favorite part of the home is the screened-in porch. Accessible through French doors just off the kitchen, the space includes comfortable seating and a floor-to-ceiling wood burning fireplace that matches the one in the living room. “I don’t care how many people we have at the lake—everyone tries to jam into the porch,” says Valerie, while Mike points out it’s the perfect spot to gather on cooler evenings in the spring and fall. On one end of the home is the master retreat with a spacious bathroom and a sitting area overlooking the lake. The walls are painted a soft teal and the bed features an iron headboard and footboard softened by fabrics in colors that complement the home’s palette. 6 2
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The opposite side of the house is where you’ll find two guest rooms separated by a shared Jack-and-Jill bathroom. One bedroom, as well as the bathroom, continues the teal/brown color scheme while the other is more of a departure with reds and blacks worked into the fabrics and artwork. Photos of family and friends decorate both spaces. In the hallway is a piece of art with one of the couple’s favorite sayings: “If you’re lucky enough to be at the lake, then you’re lucky enough.” Overflow guests can hunker down in the finished bunk room, which occupies about half of the home’s three-car garage. This room also houses what Mike refers to as the “legacy cabinet,” which displays family mementos such as toys that belonged to him and to the couple’s children, vintage dolls and cameras. Also on display are antique clippers and a shave brush, which belonged to Mike’s dad who was a barber by trade. In the summer, the Lyons gather frequently with family and friends by the water where there’s a two-slip boat dock, boathouse, floating dock and stationary dock equipped with comfortable furniture for long days spent lounging. Nearby is a hardscaped stone firepit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. “We really like to be down there in the evening time in the summer,” Mike says.
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Back up at the house is a large paver patio with multiple seating areas and an all-weather outdoor kitchen with gas grill and a Big Green Egg. “Mike’s grill capabilities needed to be recognized,” jokes Valerie. “We always cook our evening meal outdoors and we usually use it for breakfast or a mid-day snack.” This is actually the home’s second patio. After moving in, the Lyons had issues with cracking and decided the original patio wasn’t going to cut it. They called on Mark Maslow’s team at Evington-based Southern Landscape Group to design and install new hardscaping, the firepit and extensive landscaping. “I can’t say enough good things about Mark,” says Valerie. “He committed to having it done by the Fourth of July, and they were here working [late on July 3] to make it happen. He committed to that, got it done and it’s beautiful.” That patio also includes an endless pool where one can relax, cool off or swim against a current for exercise. Designed and installed by National Pools of Roanoke, it also doubles as a hot tub with bench seating with a view of the lake and mountain—a big hit with guests, Mike says. The landscaping includes a variety of trees and shrubs designed to be low maintenance. “I needed it to look beautiful throughout all four seasons but not take a lot of effort to maintain,” says Valerie. “So he [Mark] helped with the design, looking at it through that lens.” Mike says there’s not too much about the property— outside or in—the couple doesn’t like. “There’s a sentiment about the house that makes it special. It’s a great gathering place,” he says. “You can relax and enjoy the beauty of the lake or you can be as active as you want.”
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n GARDEN SHADE STRUCTURES
KEEP YOUR COOL Shade structures offer respite from sun’s rays
BY J ER EM Y A N G I O N E
Virginia certainly enjoys each of its four seasons—with bright sun playing a major role in at least three of the four. Whether you use the opportunity of a warm sunny day to garden, sip lemonade, or simply float on Smith Mountain Lake, one thing is certain: the allure of some cooling shade can be just as appealing as a sunny day. Nature sometimes provides shade in the way of large, leafy trees, but aside from that, homeowners often seek smaller, more instantly gratifying ways to create shade on their properties. Many local companies help homeowners craft such structures that create shade, for what can be a minimal investment. Here, take a look at a few options that can add a cool spot to a sunny day. smlhomemaga zine .com 67
Pergolas and Arbors
If the words “pergola” or even “arbor” sound especially elevated over your everyday vernacular, that’s because the structures themselves are meant to be decorative ornamentation. “The main purpose for arbors and pergolas are character, shade and ambiance,” says Jason Nuckols, owner of The Vinyl Porch Rail Company. An arbor is an ornamental archway that can be attached to fencing for an exquisite entrance, or installed as a standalone feature to complement a garden. Although it provides some shade, an arbor is more for outdoor aesthetics than a picnic zone. Nuckols suggests that a well-placed arbor “generally puts the final touch on any project.” A more substantial structure, a pergola can be used for aesthetic purposes as well as increasing shade space. Reminiscent of a gazebo, a pergola stands on four large
columns and boasts a much more open design. The open rafters of the roof design allow for a pleasing breakup of sun and shade. Pergolas are generally larger than arbors and therefore give you more options for customizing the outdoor space. They can be used for entryways or walkways, or even as a small picnic area. Although pergolas and arbors can be constructed from wood, Nuckols’ company adheres to its name by using vinyl as the preferred building material for these structures. Nuckols cites vinyl’s easy maintenance and durability as benefits. “Our products are extremely easy to maintain. This assures they look new and welcoming,” Nuckols says. “The overall benefits of any of these structures are giving our client the look they have visualized and the comfort they can enjoy for a lifetime.”
Pergolas are generally larger than arbors and therefore give you more options for customizing the outdoor space. They can be used for entryways or walkways, or even as a small picnic area. T h e V iny l Po rc h Ra il C o mp a ny
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Awnings
S o u t hwe s t S unro o m & W in d ow C o mp a ny
S o u t hwe s t S unro o m & W in d ow C o mp a ny
Although a sunny day is universally loved, it can sometimes prove too much for even the most prepared outdoorsman. It may be more comfortable to eat in rather than grill out and dine al fresco with the sun beating down. Kim Feivor, owner of Southwest Sunroom and Window Company, explains how adding an awning to your outdoor space can take the outdoor experience from sweltering to satisfying. “[An awning] gives people the ability to be outside and enjoy the outdoors without being baked by the heat,” he says. Noting that an awning can make your deck or porch roughly 20 degrees cooler. His company installs SunSetter awnings which have the ability to retract, in order to let variable amounts of sun back into your area, allowing for comfort adjustment. The SunSetter awning’s retraction system can be automated or manual, operated by either a small remote or a hand crank, respectively. The options for either acrylic woven fabric or laminated fabric can help the awning to withstand more extreme weather. Fortunately, Feivor says that this sort of shade structure is “very affordable.” “Aside from aesthetics, [an awning] gives people space to use what they previously couldn’t use,” he says.
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www.BPRoyConstruction.com SUNROOMS · PORCH ENCLOSURES · WINDOWS · DOORS · PATIO COVERS · DECKS & More
Sunrooms
If the heat of a bright, sunny day is becoming too much, despite your shade-seeking efforts, you may find yourself wanting to venture indoors. However, you do not have to sacrifice your love of the outdoors if you consider adding a sunroom. The addition of a sunroom is good middle ground, and can provide the feel of being in nature and in the sun with the comfort of a climatecontrolled experience. It is, however, an investment, but it’s also an addition that can add value to your home, F & S Building Innovations Residential Division Manager Jeremy Smith suggests. The key word here is investment. A sunroom is the most expensive option in this pool of ideas, but is perhaps the most versatile and lasting. And the value may go further than resale. “The benefits are proven that happiness is a direct result of sunlight, and being able to enjoy it 365 days a year adds to its value,” Smith says. Southwest Sunroom and Window Company also designs and builds sunrooms and conservatories. A typical sunroom will feature nearly all walls made of windows; a conservatory is similar to a sunroom, but also features glass roofing—allowing you to enjoy the sun’s rays from every angle. “Most people don’t want it to look like just something slapped on as an addition; they want it to look like it’s a part of the house,” says Feivor. An artful addition of a sunroom or conservatory can add value and enjoyment for years to come. As you venture outside and hope to enjoy sunny days, lakes, cookouts, and friends, you don’t have to compromise to take a break from the sun’s rays. Choose a structure that works best for you and your needs. Experts agree that spring is a busy time for such projects, though companies that specialize in this type of work are busy year-round. With that in mind, establish your comfort needs and desires and add some shade to your home this season. S o u t hwe s t S unro o m & W in d ow C o mp a ny
F& S B uil din g I nn ovat i o ns
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Mon-Thurs 8-5pm | Fri 8-2pm Sat by appointment
Call now for the best prices of the year. 540-389-8844 or 800-277-8845 625 College Avenue, Salem
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RAILINGS
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434-237-2800
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n LIVE OUTDOOR FUN
Lawn Games Re-imagined BY M EG A N H A L L
Every season here at Smith Mountain Lake has its own brand of beauty, but the prospects that warmer weather brings are full of fun. While sunshine and water views are reason enough to head to the shore of the lake, family and friends are the difference between a fun day and a lasting memory. Whether you are age 2 or 92, at the lake or just in your back yard, this lineup of distinctive games will inspire you to get out and enjoy time with loved ones of all ages. 7 2
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Keep It Simple
While staple games like corn hole, Bocce ball and ladder ball are always great options, there is much to be said for finding new uses for household items. A little creativity goes a long way with these games, so make them your own! Sponge Water Bombs There is nothing quite like a water balloon fight, especially on a sweltering day, but the time spent firing these weapons is far less than the time spent building the arsenal. Instead of spending an eternity filling up water balloons, use sponges to create reloadable, reusable artillery for your next water battle. To create your stronghold, cut a sponge into one-inch strips then use sturdy string to tie the strips together—nine strips per water bomb. As you tighten the string, the strips will start to form a pom-pom reminiscent of childhood art class. When the string is secure, fluff the strips into a ball, then soak in water, aim, fire, repeat!
Corn Shucking A summer buffet isn’t complete without corn-on-the-cob, but shucking it is no picnic. To turn this tedious task into the ultimate game, all you need is a bushel of corn, a table and a group of competitors. Split the players into teams of two—one shucker and one holder—and place the ears of corn in the center of the table. When the appointed judge starts the game, the designated shucker shucks corn as fast as possible while the holder piles up the finished ears. The team who shucks the most corn wins!
WATER BOMBS
Cut a sponge into one-inch strips then use sturdy string to tie the strips together— nine strips per water bomb. As you tighten the string, the strips will start to form a pom-pom reminiscent of childhood art class. When the string is secure, fluff the strips into a ball, then soak in water, aim, fire, repeat!
Music Board Any Southerner knows that spoons, washboards and milk jugs have a second life as musical instruments. Continue the tradition by creating your own backyard, family-style rock band. Wander through your house and snag items—except maybe the family heirlooms—that make unique sounds. Secure the items in a random array strung from a fence, or arrange on a table, then let the little ones—and the adults—create their own tunes. For an added element of fun, designate judges and make it a competition.
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Things to do: • • • • •
Tour our facility Enjoy lunch on the back deck Free Petting Zoo Sandbox for the little ones Enjoy a glass of milk or cone of Ice Cream • Grab a sandwich and a side dish for lunch • Picnic tables are available
Farm Market
The Farm Market is open year-round, Monday - Saturday. Hours vary on seasons.
7254 Booker T Washington Hwy Wirtz • VA 24184 540 • 721 • 2045
Make It Jumbo
Perspective is everything, so freshen up a traditionally indoor game by scaling it for the outdoors.
500 miles of glistening shoreline
Year-round
...nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. appeal.
History & Wine anytime. Fish. Boat. Golf. Dine. Shop. Stay. 19
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For more information: 540.721.1203 visitsmithmountainlake.com 74
KerPlunk Circa 1967, this children’s game combines a clear, hole-punched tube, plastic straws placed in a lattice pattern and a pile of marbles in a war of engineering strategy and luck. Players remove straws until one fateful shift causes the pile of marbles to fall to the bottom of the tube. Adapting this game for the outdoors is fairly simple and requires little construction. Here’s how: 1. Find a flat area. 2. Secure chicken wire into a tube shape. 3. Pass 30-40 garden stakes—dowel rods or any sturdy stake-sized item would also work—through the holes in the wire to create a lattice pattern in the middle. 4. P ile lightweight, plastic balls—or small water balloons for extra fun—on top of the lattice. 5. Let the strategizing begin! Scrabble This game of mental prowess forces players to form words using a random assortment of letters. Each word builds off the previous, creating a domino-like playing board. In the giant version, your backyard becomes the board for this battle of the brains. 1. F ind a large area for the player board. The space can be on a hill, but a steep slope isn’t recommended—you don’t want your letters sliding out of place! 2. G ather, or cut, 100 identical squares in a size of your choice of a sturdy, but inexpensive, material like foam board or poster board. 3. Use colorful markers or paint to decorate each tile with the corresponding letter and point value. Letter allocations and values can be found online. 4. Grab the dictionary and start spelling! S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Jenga Requiring a steady hand and calm nerves, this gem is not for the faint of heart! Wood blocks, stacked in alternating orientations, are removed by players and placed on top of the tower as they attempt to keep the structure from toppling. The first person to destroy the tower loses. To create the lawn-size version of this game, follow these steps: 1. Find a flat area. 2. G ather or cut identical, rectangular blocks of wood, or any material you’d like to use. (The recommended block size follows a 1:3 ratio.) 3. Stack pieces in rows of three—rotate each new row 90 degrees—to form a tower. If you’re playing with smaller children, beware of the tower’s height—no one wants a little one to get squished when the tower falls! 4. Let the destruction commence! Focus on the Fun
Sunshine and laughter are good for the soul, so enjoy these suggestions for ways to get your fill of both. Inspiration is everywhere, so gather your family and friends and let the creativity flow. And, remember, whether you’re building a supersize block tower or crafting a reloadable water bomb, the most important step is to have fun!
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Two enticing LAKES... Two different LIFESTYLES... One AGENT to give you PERSONALIZED ATTENTION YOU CHOOSE YOUR LAKE LIFESTYLE
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA
LEESVILLE LAKE, VA
Offers a busier, active Lifestyle with Water Activities; Festivals; Shopping; Restaurants; Seasonal Rentals; etc.
Offering a more private, restful Lifestyle with Boating, Fishing, and just all around Family Fun.
Barbara Brooks, Associate Broker Cell: 540.420.0135 www.smithmountainlakeva.com www.sellingleesvillelakeva.com
RE/MAX Lakefront Realty, Inc. “Independently Owned & Operated”
540.721.3555 | 16451 Booker T. Washington Hwy, Moneta, VA 7 6
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n DESIGN ADIRONDACK CHAIRS
GET TO KNOW: The All-American Chair
Adirondack BY L AU R EL F EI N M A N
No outdoor lounge chair is more classic or familiar than the one that hails from upstate New York— the Adirondack chair. Sturdy and straightforward with generous proportions, the Adirondack chair is a favorite for lakeside lounging. With wide-enough-to-rest-your-drink-on arms and a deeply sloping seat, the Adirondack chair is all about taking it easy. The chair gets its name from Westport, New York, a town overlooking Lake Champlain in the Adirondack Mountains, where a couple of buddies tinkered around and repurposed 11 boards to create the prototype for the now-iconic lounge chair. One of the men, a carpenter by trade, patented the design in 1904 as the “Westport Plank Chair” and the rest, as they say, is history. The classic, clean-lined look of the Adirondack chair works well in almost any setting. Whether your look is contemporary or rustic, these chairs are a terrific accent for a porch, yard or dock. Adirondack chairs are made for lounging: the steep recline of the chair back is fixed, making them an awkward choice for sit-up-straight activities like dining and working. So, go with it and set your Adirondack chair in a place suited for lakeside conversation and relaxation—and consider getting two (or more!). To keep friends and family from eyeing your perch: set up a grouping of Adirondack chairs and invite them to join you. smlhomemaga zine .com 77
Materials
A traditional Adirondack chair is made of stained or painted wood (traditionally, dark green or dark brown) though they now come in a rainbow of colors and in modern, manufactured materials, too. Chairs made from wood and manmade materials both have the potential to last for years. Deciding which one is right for you is a matter of personal preference, and will depend on the level of maintenance you’re up for and the look you wish to achieve. Wooden Adirondack chairs can be found unfinished, stained or painted. If left unfinished, most woods eventually acquire a weathered silvery-gray appearance—a coastal/ nautical look that some people cultivate deliberately. Exposure to the sun and the elements will change the surface color of unfinished Adirondack chairs, but probably won’t weaken the structural integrity of the timber for quite some time. However, keep in mind that leaving the wood unfinished could eventually shorten your chair’s lifespan. Whether or not you decide to keep a “likenew” appearance or let it gray, it is important to clean outdoor Adirondack chairs at least once a season (or after any sticky spill) with a mild soap-and-water solution and a little elbow grease. To extend the life of your chair, consider applying a protective coating (perhaps tung oil or linseed oil) to protect it from rain, the sun’s harsh rays and wood-munching bugs. A wood-
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care expert at your local hardware store can steer you to the right product for your chair. Resin (plastic) Adirondack chairs are a great low-maintenance option for homeowners who want their outdoor furnishings to maintain their good looks year after year. Plastics are more weatherproof than wood and tend to resist sun fading. You can find resin or plastic Adirondack chairs in any color imaginable or in finishes that mimic real wood-grain patterns and stains. Resin furniture comes in a variety of weights and price points. They can be as heavy and substantial as solid wood furniture, or lightweight enough to be easily stacked for storage. All it usually takes to get your resinbased furniture ready for the season is a mild soap and water bath. But, don’t use harsh abrasives—you don’t want to scratch or pit the surface of the chair. It’s best to store your Adirondack chairs in the garage or shed for the winter, whether they are made of plastic or wood. But, if they are too heavy to easily move or you don’t have a place to store them, you can purchase reinforced vinyl furniture covers that are sized to fit most standard Adirondack chairs. Designed to snugly fit over and around the chairs to protect them from sap, dirt and the elements, some even have inset mesh panels to allow a little airflow, which prevents them from developing mold or mildew while under cover.
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Adirondack Add-Ons
Adirondack chairs have the same overall look, perhaps with slight variations in the height or curve of the seat back or the spacing of the slats. But, there are a few extra features that can individualize and enhance your lounging experience. The most common add-on is a footrest. It’s best to purchase a matched chairand-footrest set for the most level of comfort, because the footrests slope down and away from the chair at their seat height. Side tables matching the slatted Adirondack style are another attractive addition and can even be useful when paired with other furnishings, inside and out, thanks to their timeless appeal. Outdoor cushions will add a plush layer of comfort to an Adirondack chair. You can commission custom-fit cushions specifically for your chairs, or you can take the measurements and search for ready-made cushions. A decorative lumbar pillow covered in an outdoor-friendly fabric can add just the right amount of lower back support for even the longest afternoon nap. Whether you’ve arranged your Adirondack chairs out on the lawn encircling a firepit or lined them up side-by-side on the dock to admire the lake, the classic and timeless Adirondack chair is always the best seat in the house!
Make your home
- inside and out!
WESTLAKE OUTLET STORE
On Rt. 122 at Westlake Village | 540.721.2227 Open Thur-Sat 10-6 & Sun 12-5 www.grandhomefurnishings.com As an outlet, our merchandise changes constantly. The item shown represents some of our styles, but this specific product may not be on display at this location.
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LAKE LIFESTYLE 8 0
Reboot
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BY A N D I E G I B S O N P h ot o gr a p hy by KG T hi e n e m a nn
A
few years ago, Laura and Jesse Hall found themselves at a crossroads. The long-time Smith Mountain Lake residents and soon-to-be-fulltime retirees came to the realization they were ready to part with their lakefront property. For nearly 15 years, the couple had enjoyed their spacious single-family home, which featured an open layout perfect for hosting frequent family gettogethers and neighborhood parties. The property also included a roomy dock with boathouse and extensive landscaping. Both are gardening enthusiasts but decided they wanted to scale back in retirement to free up time for other hobbies and pursuits. The plan was to sell the lake house and build something more low maintenance on a golf course lot they owned at The Waterfront Country Club. The Halls would rent a condo, spend a few months planning the design, and then a year and a half or so on construction with a local builder. That’s when a series of serendipitous events were set in motion that found the couple second-guessing their original plans. “We listed the house and had a contract on it within a month,” says Jesse. “Luckily, we had a friend who owned a condo at Bridgewater Bay that had never been lived in and was available for rent. The stars aligned.” For the next three months, the couple worked with a contractor to perfect plans for their new golf course home while enjoying the advantages of maintenance-free living at Bridgewater Bay. “We had lived in a townhome for eight years before the lake house and were reminded of how much we like this lifestyle,” Laura says. Jesse adds, “We also were reminded of when we built our last home and how it was the focus of our lives for two years—the designing, the building, the landscaping. Laura asked me one day, ‘Are you sure you are ready to do that again?’ and I said, ‘No.’ I realized I really didn’t want to take away from the hobbies I was enjoying and my free time.” Time for serendipity to step in again. smlhomemaga zine .com 81
What to Do Next?
The Halls decided to scrap their building plans, list the golf course lot for sale and begin looking for a maintenance-free property that fit the new lifestyle they had come to enjoy. It didn’t take long to discover there was a Bridgewater Bay villa for sale just down the hill from where they were renting. “It checked off a lot of the boxes in terms of what we were looking for. It was the right size [approximately 4,000 square feet], the price range we were looking at, and offered ways for us to customize it to our taste,” says Laura of the four-bedroom, three-bath villa they now call home. The main living area is on the first floor while an extensive lower level walks out to the back. Both feature outdoor living space, views of Smith Mountain Lake and loads of natural light. The exterior has a Spanish flair with red tile roof and brick paver driveway and walkway flanked by low-maintenance plants and stone instead of hardwood mulch. With the exception of the lower level, which was completely unfinished, the majority of the improvements the Halls chose to tackle before moving in were cosmetic. The villa already had a number of upgrades, including a large marble stone fireplace flanked by built-in cabinets in the living room, stainless steel appliances and plantation shutters, crown molding, granite countertops and hardwood floors throughout. 8 2
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In the main living and dining areas, the wall color was changed from tropical blue to a more subdued beige. Laura said she called on Randall Neely, interior designer and owner of Joran’s Interiors in Roanoke, to help with the design and accessorizing. Furniture was added in warm neutrals and jewel tones, highlighted with fabrics in chocolate and sienna colors. The master suite now features soothing light green walls and a cozy sitting area. A distressed iron gate, found at a furniture store in High Point, North Carolina, makes a statement as a non-traditional headboard. There are individual walk-in closets and a roomy master bathroom with large soaker tub. To personalize the space, the Halls added new fixtures, lights and mirrors, as well as shimmery wallpaper in a leaf pattern. The kitchen also is warm and open with ample storage space. Black granite countertops and brown tile floor and backsplash complement the decor of the adjoining living space. Down the hall is a guest bedroom, full bath, office and stairs leading to the lower level.
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A Blank Canvas
The walkout basement, unfinished when the Halls purchased the villa, provided opportunity for the couple to create a large, open space to entertain family and friends. Descending the stairs, guests are welcomed to an area that’s a cross between a wet bar and a kitchenette. There’s an adjacent seating area with comfortable couch and upholstered ottoman. The rusty-brown colored floor is concrete with an acid etch finish and features a decorative inlay at the base of the stairs. “We have huge family time down here, especially at the holidays,” Laura says. “There are about 20 of us so it really gives us a great space to spread out and enjoy.” The space includes a workout/hobby room, roomy guest suite, living area with L-shaped couch and game table, a contemporary gas fireplace that hangs on the wall and a grand piano, which Laura plays frequently. A small patio provides seating outdoors with a view of the lake. And while the home’s exterior and lawn maintenance are handled via a homeowners association, the villa allows the Halls to cultivate their love of gardening on a smaller scale. There are a variety of containers for herbs and flowers on the front porch, walkway, deck and patio, and the Halls both serve on the community’s landscaping committee, overseeing a variety of common areas. Since retiring, Laura has taken up yoga, painting and playing the Native American flute. Jesse has found more time for golf, boating and tinkering with his 1951 Chevy, which he describes as a cross between a classic car and a hot rod. “Before, we spent a lot of time on the house and in the yard— and on one hand that was very satisfying, but it sometimes meant we neglected relationships,” Laura says. “This lifestyle allows us to cultivate some of the hobbies we have or want to have. It’s been a great move for us.”
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13
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n GARDEN COMBATTING MOSQUITOES
BUZZ OFF!
Natural Mosquito Repellents
BY PAT R I CI A C H EL D
The buzz of a mosquito can send mere mortals running indoors. The incessant buzz … buzz … buzz in our ears is more than some of us can stand. The mosquitoes’ bothersome bites can keep us itching for days. Not only can mosquitoes carry a variety of diseases but they serve as a major distraction as they buzz, land and bite. No wonder we are relentless in our search for mosquito vanquishers! While there are numerous products on the market to use as sprays and lotions or to wear as clothing, bracelets and neckwear, many of these are coated with chemicals that may cause undesired side effects. Now there are natural products using essential plant-based oils that allegedly deter mosquitoes and other insect pests. There is much discussion regarding the real benefits of these natural remedies. Some experts will swear by these concoctions, and others say they are totally ineffective. Part of the problem is that researchers cannot think like mosquitoes. They are not really sure why these insects are attracted to people, and why some of us are more attractive to mosquitoes than others. Mosquitoes seem to be attracted to odors on our skin, and if these odors can be masked, this can help as a repellent.
Plant-based products, often referred to as “secret sauce,” may be effective deterrents because of the essential oils used in the recipes. These oils are derived from herbs that have a pungent aroma and a taste that is thought to be a deterrent. A study conducted at Iowa State University reported tests on the repellent abilities of catnip, also known as catmint. While catnip drives cats wild, it also seems to drive mosquitoes away. Findings reported at a national meeting of the American Chemical Society claimed that catnip is ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than compounds used in most common bug repellents. Nepetalactone, which is the essential oil in catnip, seems to act as a very effective insect deterrent. Researchers are not sure why; it could simply be unattractive to mosquitoes.
If mosquitoes are a problem for you, it might be worth trying a natural approach. But before attacking mosquitoes with any type of repellent, make your backyard as unappealing as possible for them. Your first line of defense is to rid the area of their favorite haunts. Mosquitoes love standing, stagnant water. Remove containers and other garden ornaments that collect standing water. Bird baths are charming, but do change the water daily. Still water is an open invitation to mosquitoes. Once the garden is devoid of standing water, make a plan where mosquito repellent plants might be the most useful. Planters on the patio, along walkways and in borders all make ideal locations for mosquito-repellent plants. Some of the plants that researchers and horticulturists believe may be effective in combatting mosquitoes include:
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“Mosquitoes love me” is often heard as we dive from their buzzing sounds. Even if their effectiveness is questionable, these plants offer color and fragrance to our patios and garden areas. And, if these plants deter mosquitoes, then all the better. CATMINT Also known as catnip, this herb lives and thrives everywhere. It is a member of the mint family and is easy to care for, but like many plants in the mint family, it can be very invasive. ROSEMARY Known for its pungent, woody scent, rosemary keeps insects (and some people!) at bay. A popular cooking herb, rosemary thrives in hot and dry conditions and does well in containers. It can be pruned and works well as a border plant along walkways. BASIL This herb also plays double duty as a kitchen herb and a repellent. There are various basil varieties and all have a pungent odor. Basil plants prefer damp soil with good drainage and lots of sun. L AVENDER This herb has a lovely fragrance that not only
repels many insects but also keeps rabbits and other small mammals at bay. Most varieties are tough and drought resistant. With sun and good drainage, they do well once they are established. Check with your local garden center to find out which variety will do best in your specific location. 8 8
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BEEBALM Also known as horsemint, this herb produces a strong
incense-like scent that insects avoid. It is fast growing, shade tolerant, drought resistant and prefers dry, sandy soil. MARIGOLDS Hardy marigolds are both ornamental and act as critter deterrents. These annuals have a distinctive aroma and contain pyrethrum which is used in many insect repellents. Marigolds like full sun and fertile soil. AGER ATUM This ornamental annual secretes coumarin, which
is another commercial mosquito repellent. Whether it secretes enough to be effective is not really proven. Ageratum thrives in partial or full sun and does well in planters and garden areas. BEEBALM
MARIGOLDS
CITRONELL A GER ANIUM Among all of the plants thought to be offensive to our local mosquitoes, most nursery professionals concur that citronella geranium is second to none. Also known as the scented geranium and mosquito geranium, this plant is the best defense in the garden. It is citrus-scented, not unlike citronella. Known more for its useful foliage than its small pink flower, lake residents often plant it around their patios solely as an insect repellent.
In some cases, no matter what type of repellent we use, mosquitoes attack. “Mosquitoes love me” is often heard as we dive from their buzzing sounds. Even if their effectiveness is questionable, these plants offer color and fragrance to our patios and garden areas. And, if these plants deter mosquitoes, then all the better. AGERATUM
CITRONELLA GERANIUM
Special thanks to Sheryl Murphy of Wippledale Nursery and Darlene Hensley of Moneta Farm & Home Center for their assistance.
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n DESIGN FLOORING OPTIONS
Take the Floor Get off on the right foot
with new flooring options BY CY N T H I A B EM EN T
If you haven’t shopped for flooring recently and you’re considering a fresh look underfoot for your Smith Mountain Lake home, you’ll surely have a spring in your step knowing you’ve got more choices than ever before. The industry has blossomed so much in recent years that carpet and wood no longer rule the roost. Here, we present some lake-friendly options and shopping tips to help you undertake your flooring project with confidence. 9 0
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High Style, High Performance
“Companies have become much more innovative with colors and designs in the flooring industry in the past three years,” says Joe Russell, floor covering specialist at Interiors by Kris in Westlake. Now you can get just the look you want without sacrificing the performance your lifestyle dictates, whether you prefer the softness and endless color and style options of carpet, traditional hardwood flooring, or want to explore the latest innovations in other types of highly durable flooring. One option growing exponentially in popularity with SML homeowners, Russell says, is luxury vinyl tile (LVT), now available from most flooring manufacturers. “They’ve come out with some awesome looks in simulated wood and stone, which gives a lot of design flexibility,” he says. LVT comes in traditional square tiles as well as wood-look planks in varying sizes, which gives it the flexibility to suit a variety of tastes and flooring situations—including the ability to be installed on surfaces and locations that may not be naturally well-suited to traditional flooring installations. It also meets the tough demands of lake living, where dripping bathing suits, wet dogs, and red clay-
encrusted flip flops can wreak havoc on carpet or traditional wood in lake-access levels or in often-wet bathrooms. “They’re using larger and larger planks now, which allows LVT to be glued down or floated, and that adds a lot of installation versatility. It’s also very durable and easy-maintenance. LVT is taking over in places where traditional flooring hasn’t been as maintenancefriendly,” he says. LVT is also budget-friendly compared to its traditional wood and tile counterparts. “It’s definitely more affordable than real wood or real tile, and the labor is much more affordable because it goes down so easily,” Russell says. “It’s easy to maintain—you don’t have to re-polish it like you do the old vinyl composition tile. The wood look has grains that are very prominent, as are the knots, so it looks just like real wood.” Additionally, LVT is comprised of a vinyl top layer, a waterproof core, and a cork backing, which makes it a completely waterproof surface that is softer underfoot (thanks to the cork layer) and is less slippery than ceramic or porcelain tile—a bonus when considering covering an area of your home that may see frequent lake traffic.
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New Options for Old Standbys
The carpet industry also has seen some new innovations, in both areas of style and durability, which is great news for those who still love its coziness in their bedrooms, for example. One new feature borrows from the commercial carpet sector. “There are some really cool ideas some carpet industry leaders have come out with in carpet squares,” says Cindy Hall, an interior designer and flooring expert at Capps Home Building Center in Moneta. “You can actually make an area rug by combining a couple of different patterns and creating a really inexpensive, cool look for an area rug underneath a dining table, or under a bed, within a larger area of carpet.” Hall says carpet squares also deserve consideration for their ease of replacement. “Say you had someone spill something in one area of your carpet. That carpet square can be popped up, a new square put down, and you don’t have that stain any longer. Squares are where I see the trend going with carpet.” Another key development in carpet from top brands is an entirely waterproof backing on wall-to-wall carpet, which can prevent wicking problems with stains that would otherwise absorb down to the pad, then “wick” up and reappear from deep down after initially appearing to lift from the surface of the carpet with professional cleaning. Traditional hardwood hasn’t lost its appeal, either. “Wood will always hold value in the house,” says Bob Garby,
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flooring specialist at Whitt Carpet One Floor and Home in Salem. “From a real estate standpoint, there are a lot of homes on the lake that have natural hardwood in them.” Often called threequarter-inch hardwood, this flooring has seen advancements that include an aluminum-oxidized polyurethane coating, which is stronger and makes the wood more scratch resistant than traditional polyurethane coating. Many manufacturers also now offer handscraped and brushed finishes that give an already-aged look, so that when scratching does occur, it adds to the patina of the wood and makes a scratch less visible than in wood flooring of the past. Placement of wood in a lake home, however, needs to be carefully considered, says Garby. “Typically we don’t recommend using wood in a lower level that walks in from the lake or even from an outside grassy area,” he notes. Since wood expands and contracts with the seasons and also does not co-exist well with water, Garby recommends keeping it in areas of your home that do not see heavy lake traffic or lots of pet activity. No matter what your taste, lifestyle and budget dictates, you can now bring new floors to your home that are more in-tune with you than ever before. Do some research, ask a lot of questions and seek out a flooring provider who’s willing to help you see the project through, then enjoy living easier (and more beautifully) on the lake with carefree flooring underfoot.
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Whitt Carpet One Floor & Home
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Score Your Floor Successfully completing a flooring project in your home that’s on point from a style, durability and budget perspective is perhaps both more exciting and challenging than ever, given all the new options available. Here are some tips to help you shop like a pro. ■ Carefully consider your use of the floor. Think about
traffic patterns, including pet traffic, ages of your family and guests now and into the future, and how a room’s purpose may change in five or ten years. Also consider proximity to water and outdoor environments. ■ Do your own research and ask the showroom for their
newest products. Cindy Hall with Capps Home Building Center advises you to carefully research the particular flooring product that has piqued your interest so that you’re aware of all the options in that category. New products hit the market frequently.
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■ Pay close attention to the warranty offered on the floor
and register for that warranty with the manufacturer immediately to activate it. ■ Consider having the retailer measure your home
BEFORE you shop. Bob Garby of Whitt Carpet One Floor and Home says having your home measured before you shop can give you a better idea of labor and prep costs on different flooring choices, and can reveal any areas that might only be able to be covered with carpet because of unevenness or structural considerations. ■ Build a relationship. Work with the same salesperson
and installation team through the entire process so that as you go from measuring to selection to installation, you don’t have to continually explain yourself to new people who have never seen your house or heard your flooring history, concerns and preferences.
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540.719.1266 | designersolutionsinc.com
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n LIVE PICNICS
Pack a Better Picnic for the boat, the dock, the island BY M EG A N JA NS EN
Food just seems to taste better when it is eaten outside. Whether a picnic takes place on the boat, the dock or on a Smith Mountain Lake island, it is guaranteed to be a fun event with a beautiful view. Lunch Cruise
A picnic on the boat makes it easy to take a long boat ride to a new part of the lake. With its 500 miles of shoreline, there’s a lot to see at SML. In spring or fall, picnics can be enjoyed on board without even going ashore, avoiding chilly water. Before setting out on a long trip, be sure to: ■
check the local weather
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t ell a friend or neighbor trip details (departure time and expected return time)
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gas up the boat
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take a charged cellphone
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make sure to have a lake map
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c heck for adequate life jackets for each crew member
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ring extra sweatshirts, jackets, towels or blankets b in case it is cooler on the lake than anticipated.
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For the actual picnic, you’ll need food, drinks and minimal equipment—napkins, plates, cutlery, cups, trash bags and packaged moist towelettes. Food could be packed in a picnic basket or, if this is hard to fit in the boat, the food might go into the cooler along with cold beverages. A plus for a large rectangular hard-sided cooler is that it can also serve as a table in the boat after the food and drinks come out; a minus is that the cooler can become too heavy to carry and load into the boat. In that case, a small cooler for beverages and an insulated bag for food is preferable. Most skippers prefer picnics of premade, individually wrapped, non-gooey sandwiches or pieces of chicken. Leave at home the ketchup, mustard and sauces that might stain the boat’s carpet. Many skippers also ban red wine (and dark colas) on board. Stick with water, flavored or not, some of which can be in half-frozen bottles that double as ice packs. When deciding where to break out the lunch, give preference to coves within a few minutes of a marina or near the home of a friend for that post-lunch bathroom stop. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Don’t Forget: ■
icnic basket, thermal p bag or insulated backpack for food
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cooler with drinks
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aper goods (plates, p napkins, paper towels, cups, plastic wine glasses, trash bags)
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e xtra zipper bags to bring home leftovers
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blanket to sit on
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individual moist towelettes
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matches and firewood, if making a fire
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corkscrew or bottle opener
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eating or serving utensils
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knife and cutting board, if needed
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sunscreen, sunglasses, visors, hats
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camera/cellphone
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t oys such as: Frisbee, Nerf ball, Velcro mitts and balls
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Indoor & Outdoor Lighting | Fans | Home Decor
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A picnic on the dock or on the deck can be pure heaven, being up close and personal with the lake—hearing the waves, feeling gentle breezes, seeing the water views and ducks, geese and herons flying. Dining al fresco is a preferred activity at the lake, and it’s much easier than picnicking elsewhere because most docks already have a table and chairs, a bar, storage areas, electrical outlets and a refrigerator. Keep the dock stocked with refreshments, paper plates, napkins, plastic silverware, wraps, foil, bottle/wine openers, tablecloths, sharp knives, matches and moist towelettes. Also handy are a microwave, toaster oven and a couple of hot trays. Whether your “picnic” is a simple lunch, hors d’oeuvres for 40 or a five-course meal for eight, it is important to get food, drinks and ice to the dock in advance for a stress-free gathering. To transport food and equipment, use deep, heavy-duty plastic dishpans that can be loaded with everything from flower arrangements to food and drinks. For cleanup, the same dishpans are loaded with used plastic wine glasses and everything that needs to be carried back to the house. The only cooler needed is one filled with ice and beverages for guests to make a selection. A large decorative bucket is a prettier version of the open cooler. Come Ashore!
A picnic on an island should only be undertaken in summer when wading from boat to shore is comfortable and playing in knee-deep lake water is appealing. Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses and visors or hats. Because there is no guarantee your island will be unoccupied, have a Plan B in mind—a secondary location, boat picnic or dock picnic—in case someone else has already grabbed your favorite spot. When considering food and drinks, options are a bit more varied than a boat picnic, as there will be no worry about staining the boat’s carpet. Build a campfire for chicken and veggie kabobs or even good old hot dogs and marshmallows cooked on green sticks from trees. Containers of vegetable salads and fruit salads round out the meal. BYO firewood is suggested. Yes, it’s messy, but most SML islands have long ago been stripped of firewood. (And be sure to practice fire safety, making sure fire is fully extinguished before your departure!) A heavy blanket, quilt or a special blanket with waterproofing on one side (or even a separate waterproof tarp) serve as both table and chairs. Here’s a tip: Sprinkle talcum powder, a natural ant repellent, around the outside of the picnic blanket to keep the crawlers away. Easy-to-pack games like Frisbee, Nerf balls and sets of Velcro catcher’s mitts with fuzzy balls can come out of their storage places in the boat to provide fun in the sun. Noodles and blowup rafts are fun floaties for the swimmers in the crowd. Don’t forget the moist towelettes and the trash bags to leave the picnic area even cleaner than you found it! S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
Picnic Food Tips: Avoid mayonnaise-based salads. They must be kept at 40 degrees or less to avoid spoiling. A good alternative is vinegar and olive oil or sesame oil-based salads. Use this for dressings on coleslaw, pasta, tuna and potato salads. Avoid deviled eggs made with mayonnaise. Consider making them with Greek yogurt or avocado, since these tend to hold up to spoilage better than mayonnaise. Put condiments like mustard and ketchup in small containers. A ketchup bottle adds unnecessary weight to your basket. Soft fruits (peaches, bananas) do not travel well. Apples, pears and oranges hold up better. Other good fruit/veggie choices are cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, cut raw peppers, celery, grapes and figs. The best fruit and cheese platters feature hard cheese (Brie becomes a soggy mess). Good combos are Gruyere and apple slices, watermelon and feta, tomatoes and mozzarella. Transporting chocolate is messy. If you want cake, take angel food cake and top with fruit. Sodas can go flat, and insects love them. Instead pack partlyfrozen bottles of water, lemonade or fruit punch.
magnolia
IN ROANOKE - 4710 STARKEY ROAD 540.204.4774 MON - SAT 10 TO 6
IN ABINGDON - 180 E. MAIN STREET 276.206.8134 TUES - SAT 11 TO 5
HOME DECOR|LIGHTING|PILLOWS|JEWELRY|ART|DESIGN SERVICES smlhomemaga zine .com 97
An Old-World Retreat
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BY A N D I E G I B S O N P h ot o gr a p hy by D o n Pet e r se n
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Virginia Tech logo inlayed into the paver driveway immediately lets visitors know Hokie fans live at this Smith Mountain Lake house. It’s a subtle touch, one of many small, thoughtful design elements that combine for a big overall impact at the home of Betty and Ben Davenport, Jr. in The Water’s Edge. The Chatham natives already owned a second home in the upscale country club community in Franklin County when a lot just down the street came on the market several years ago. Its captivating, panoramic views of the lake and Smith Mountain were too much for the couple to resist. “We just loved the view,” says Betty Davenport. “And this gave us the opportunity to build a home in the style we wanted—Old World with a farmhouse aesthetic; a Tuscany look but with an open floor plan inside.” The couple worked with Rockbridge County-based architect Michael Papit for a year on the design of the home, which is 5,700 finished square feet on three levels. Betty says there were three critical elements she and her husband hoped to achieve: maximize the lake and mountain views, integrate a variety of repurposed materials, and showcase their collection of artwork. Blair Construction of Gretna was hired to build the home, which was completed in 2010. The exterior has a distinct European flair with abundant stone, garage doors and columns made of pine, as well as teal-colored shutters with wrought-iron accents. Approximately 20 percent of the rock used for the façade was salvaged from the Davenports’ farm near Gretna in neighboring Pittsylvania County. “It’s the darker-colored stone that you see mixed in,” Betty says. “It’s almost a purplish color. I thought it would break up the monotony of the gray stone—which came from West Virginia— and give it some depth.” smlhomemaga zine .com 9 9
Guests enter through old pine doors salvaged from the Helm Tobacco Warehouse in downtown Lynchburg, a building that dates back to 1852, and into a large foyer. Heart-pine floors add warmth to the main level, which accommodates all of the couple’s primary living spaces, including an office and the master bedroom and bathroom. The spacious kitchen is a seamless blend of Old World and farmhouse styles with a dramatic coffered ceiling adorned with reclaimed wood, an apron-front sink and an array of roosterthemed accessories. “I wanted the kitchen to be really open because that’s where everyone gathers,” Betty says. “And I collect roosters so this is the perfect spot to display them.” Large columns that double as storage for glassware flank a rustic table that separates the kitchen and living room, which is decorated with an eclectic mix of new and antique furnishings and accessories along with Oriental and Mexican rugs. Interior designer Kris Willard helped choose new furniture, as well as fabrics to recover several pieces that were repurposed from the owners’ previous lake house. “Kris also worked around other antiques and art, things I already had, to pull it all together,” Betty says. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer a stunning lake view while allowing abundant light to flow into the living room. “Sienne Calf in Repose” by Roanoke-area artist Greg Osterhaus makes a striking statement over the pine mantel and stone hearth. The original oil painting is part of the Davenports’ extensive art collection, which includes pieces from regional and national artists, as well as others amassed on the couple’s travels to Europe and South America.
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“The Coachman” by John Carroll Doyle hangs in the foyer at the Daven port home.
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Of particular significance to the Davenports are a number of works by Charleston, South Carolina-based artist John Carroll Doyle. Doyle and Ben Davenport served in the Coast Guard together in the 1960s and reunited about a dozen years ago when they bumped into each other at a wildlife show. Doyle’s “The Coachman” occupies a prominent spot in the foyer above the dramatic curved staircase that leads to the lower level. A pensive piece entitled “The Optimist” hangs in the dining room. The dining area includes an antique hutch to house the couple’s collection of Davenport china. It’s an English company whose original owners are no relation to the Smith Mountain Lake Davenports, Betty says, “but Ben’s parents started collecting it and we thought it would be fun to continue the tradition after we got married.”
The other side of the kitchen leads to a cozy den illuminated by a rustic iron chandelier. Comfortable furniture, a fireplace, TV and more lake views make this room a favorite hangout spot for the couple and their three Golden Retrievers—Governor, Bay and Jeb. The adjacent covered porch overlooking the lake is a popular place for family and friends to gather in the warmer months, Betty says. The home features a number of accommodation options for guests, including loft-style dorm quarters above the garage. The autonomous space includes a small living area with three twin beds, a separate bedroom and full bathroom decorated in a nautical theme. There are also two guest suites on the lower level, which continues the home’s Tuscan theme but with a more relaxed vibe. The family room has floors constructed of Mexican tile, an oversized stone fireplace, and is decorated with abundant photos of family and friends, many taken on hunting and fishing trips.
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A bar area tucked in one corner of the lower level is handy for entertaining. Guests also can enjoy games of shuffleboard or a movie in the media room, complete with popcorn maker and reclining chairs. With its European ambiance, the temperature-controlled wine cellar is a favorite spot for Ben Davenport, who owns Chathambased Davenport Energy and First Piedmont Corporation. More local stone helped create the room’s interior and exterior walls and the pine doors were reclaimed from the Dan River Mill Cotton Storage House. “When we have guests, the lower level serves as guest quarters,” Betty says. “But we also use it for entertaining. The media room is perfect for ball games—any sporting event, really. We watch a lot of Hokie football games in there because it has the big screen.”
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French doors open out to a second covered porch and an established landscape that was designed by Roanokebased Melissa Hodgkinson of Fiddlehead Landscape and Garden Design and installed by Seven Oaks Landscape and Hardscape of Glade Hill. Providing pops of color in the warmer months are abelia, viburnum, sweetbay magnolia and lacecap hydrangea. The home was one of three at Smith Mountain Lake showcased during the Chatham Garden Club’s Historic Garden Week tour in the spring of 2015. A stone path leads to the lake and a natural sand beach where the dogs love to frolic. Bay will try for hours to catch fish, Betty says, but has yet to succeed. 104
“It’s a wonderful spot for kids and dogs,” Betty says. “There’s no rip-rap. It’s just soft sand with a gentle slope so you can wade out into the water.” The dock and boathouse were designed and built by Union Hall-based Turner’s Dock Building. They complement the home with a familiar color scheme, roof and design elements, including a cupola with Hokie-bird weather vane. There’s covered and uncovered seating, a floating dock, a single boat slip and lifts for two jet skis. “We spend a good amount of time down there because there’s lots of seating and a table to eat around,” Betty says. “We like going down there to just sit, relax and enjoy the view.” S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
n IMPROVE HOME GENERATORS Lightning is flashing, the wind is blowing, the trees are bending and overhead wires are singing. Then … the dreaded flicker and, sure enough: lights out! You hold your breath for a few seconds, hoping against hope that this will be only a momentary lapse, that the circuits will reset and the lights will come back on again. But they don’t. And it’s then that you think: “Darn, I wish I had followed through on that plan to get a generator. This outage could go on for days.” A power interruption can be caused by circumstances other than thunderstorms, of course. Cars occasionally ram power poles, bringing down the wires. Winter sleet can accumulate on wires, making them droop and snap. Or short circuits occur due to mechanical failure somewhere in the transmission grid. And of course it isn’t just the lights that stop working. Stoves, ovens and toasters won’t heat. Freezers and refrigerators won’t cool. Those who depend on wells can no longer do dishes or flush toilets. Computers go dark, making web searches impossible and leaving email messages unread and unanswered. The ability to charge cell phones, tablets and other devices is lost. Fortunately, there are mitigation strategies for the power outages that are all too common in relatively rural areas such as ours. All of them involve purchasing and installing some kind of private power generation or storage system. A Range of Solutions
Standby Power Plans BY J ER RY H A L E
Power generation equipment ranges from whole-house emergency back-up systems that kick in automatically when power flickers to small, highly portable gasoline or propane generators that will run a few lightbulbs, a hot plate, and a device charger or two. Bigger is better in an emergency, but bigger also requires a considerable investment in capability that will be used only occasionally. Still, when you need it, you need it. “That’s why,” says Richard Shively of Rocky Mount’s Shively Electric, “we installed over 80 whole-house generator systems, both new construction and retrofit, in our area last year.” Shively’s most popular units run $8,000 to $10,000 and up, depending on size, control sophistication and installation factors. They are designed to automatically start when “line” power is interrupted and provide service to selected home circuits as they demand it. They disconnect when line power is restored, again automatically. They also fire themselves up periodically, performing automated tests to make sure they are always ready to respond to a power interruption. “Time was when back-up generators were considered a luxury item—akin to a whole house stereo or central vacuum system,” Shively says. “Nowadays, more and more people think of them as a must-have part of a home’s operating systems—an essential for our power-hungry, device-laden lives.” “And there are those for whom uninterrupted power is a medical necessity—for oxygen pumps or keeping medicines chilled,” adds Ted Puzio of Southern Trust Home Services, an area electrical contractor that also offers plumbing, HVAC and other home systems services.
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Both experts point to manually operated power transfer setups, which rely on off-the-shelf portable generators as their power supply, as a lower cost alternative—usually $2,000 to $3,000 including purchase of a separate generator from a home improvement store or catalog. But, says Shively, “…starting them, connecting the cables, and properly configuring the breaker boxes is a somewhat tricky physical task that some homeowners can’t do or prefer not to attempt—and which can be especially intimidating in the dark.” Adds Puzio: “Those setups can also produce power spikes that will damage sensitive equipment like computers and flat-screen TVs. And there’s potential for them to feed power back down the lines, endangering utility workers who are working on circuits they think have been safely disconnected.” Portable generator feed lines—heavy cables that resemble a boat or RV power connection cord—must also be disconnected and stored when line power resumes. Retail-purchased generators typically don’t have the “smart” technology to decide where electricity is most needed and aren’t large enough to provide whole-house service. And they require the homeowner to perform regular maintenance and testing to ensure that they are ready to go should a line power outage occur. Puzio recommends that anyone who purchases a home generating system include a regular maintenance program. “You wouldn’t buy a car and run it forever without service. Generators sit idle for long periods, and that calls for periodic maintenance to keep them fit,” he says.
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A Brand-New Option
A back-up system based on California-based Tesla Motors’ rechargeable lithium-ion battery technology has recently been introduced. It stores energy that’s been harvested with rooftop solar panels and uses a liquid thermal control system and software to manage “dispatch commands” from a solar inverter. Dubbed “Powerwall” to reflect the normal garage-wall mounting of the battery pack, the inaugural system has a 10 kWh capacity, said to sufficiently power commonly-needed circuits such as a refrigerator, critical lighting, computer, alarm system and some electrical outlets; a pair of Powerwalls installed together, it is claimed, can support the majority of household loads, including heating and cooling. Closer to home is the Schlender Electric battery backup system offered through Saving Sunshine, which installs solar panels and related equipment in Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina. Co-owner Nellie Holliday says they use a “string inverter” (as opposed to the “micro-inverter” that is used to feed excess energy from solar cell collection systems back into the power grid) to charge back-up batteries and keep them topped off. “This roughly $25,000 system can operate critical home circuits for 2 to 3 days, given some level of sunshine for replenishment,” Holliday says. “We can also install a 7 kWh off-the-shelf gas generator to kick in and charge the batteries during periods of no sunshine.” They’ve installed several of these systems, “…mostly in areas of West Virginia where power interruptions are common.”
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Other Power-Emergency Suggestions
Some advance planning can also help take the sting out of power loss, even without a major investment in a back-up system. Most everyone has a cell phone these days, and you should be sure yours has downloaded one of the free flashlight apps. Unlike relying totally on your supply of regular flashlights, you’ll likely know exactly where your phone is—plus it’s less likely to have dead batteries than that flashlight stored in your kitchen drawer or hall closet (but remember that cell flashlights eat power rapidly; be careful not to run them dead and lose your emergency communication capability). Keeping containers of fresh water on hand is a good idea for wellwater users, and a supply of candles, matches and non-tippy candle holders can lend a rather fun, romantic element to a short-lived evening power outage.
Change the Way you Advertise
434-385-1370
1053 Cottontown Rd., Lynchburg VA - just off 221 www.outtasightwraps.com
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Fab at
Celebrate Smith Mountain Lake’s 50th Anniversary with our favorite ideas for lake home and garden A fun-filled year of celebration is underway to mark the 50th anniversary of Smith Mountain Lake in 2016. From a special performance by the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra to a 50-kilometer ultramarathon to a 60s-themed musical weekend, the lake will be buzzing all year with exciting events and activities to mark the lake’s golden anniversary. You can find a link to the full calendar of events on our website, smlhomemagazine.com. Here at HOME Magazine, we wanted to be part of the anniversary fun by sharing some of our most favorite ideas for home and garden—50 of them, to be exact. 10 8
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1. Plant a variety of heat-tolerant annuals in lightweight pots to add a punch of color to your dock. Keep a watering can or small bucket in the boathouse so you can easily scoop out lake water to keep them hydrated. 2. Create a “Down on the Dock” sign to place at the front door so your guests will know to bypass the house and head straight to the party!
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5. Commemorate SML’s 50th anniversary with items for your home or dock. Local retailers are selling 50th-themed koozies (Bridgewater Marina), stickers (Gifts Ahoy), pottery (Emerson Creek Pottery) and wine glasses (The Little Gallery, Brooks Mill Winery, Hickory Hill Winery). Stop by the SML Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plaza for more ideas.
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6. Consider installing a water feature. Small ponds, fountains and bird baths can add a touch of whimsy and calm to your garden. 7. Install low-voltage lighting around your home for beauty and safety. Lighting the path from home to dock is particularly helpful. 8. Add a firepit in the backyard to use for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows in the summer and to use for warmth when the weather turns cooler. See the article in this issue for ideas on firepits to fit any budget.
3. Show your spirit on the dock with a 50ththemed T-shirt from Bridgewater Sportswear. The Smith Mountain Lake Association (smlassociation.org) also is selling T-shirts, hats, life vests and bags bearing the 50th logo. 4. Add a garden seat or bench to your landscape to provide a spot to rest, relax and enjoy the view.
Ava il a b l e at T h e L i t t l e G a ll e r y
9. Shop local interior design and furniture shops for all-weather outdoor furniture that allows you to expand your living space to the outdoors.
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10. For safety and convenience, add a wireless remote system to your dock to control lights and boat lifts. It’s a service most local dock builders offer.
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11. Grow vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, etc.) in large pots on your deck or dock to help keep them out of reach from Smith Mountain Lake’s ever-present deer. 12. Pot some herbs, too, to use for drinks and snacks on the dock. Think mint for mojitos and cilantro for homemade salsa.
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13. Add a lake-themed sculpture to your landscape to create a focal point. If you’re crafty enough, make it a living sculpture by creating a topiary.
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14. Hire a professional photographer to capture a special family photo session using the lake as an idyllic backdrop. This is an especially great idea for a time when extended family members, or those who aren’t able to visit often, are all gathered at SML. Purchase frames and display the photos prominently in your home.
15. Get details from the Smith Mountain Lake Association (smlassociation.org) on how to create a buffer garden along your shoreline to prevent fertilizers and other chemicals from running off into the lake.
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16. Order a 911 emergency dock sign from the SML Rotary Club (smlrotary.com) to make it easier for SML fire and rescue squads to more easily locate your home by boat in case of fire, personal injury or illness. Signs are $27 for do-ityourself installation or $47 if installed by Rotary volunteers.
19. Install storage bins on your dock that can keep life jackets, pillows and other dock necessities tucked neatly away while providing extra seating for gettogethers.
17. Make your dock a reflection of your personality by decorating with a theme. Fun ideas include Margaritaville, nautical or your favorite college or pro sports teams.
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18. Give your boathouse a polished look by finishing the ceiling with low-maintenance composite materials and a fan to keep you cool on the hottest lake days.
20. Add solar lights around your dock and boathouse. Rope lighting or decorative strings of lights around bar areas also add a festive touch.
21. Add a retractable awning or drop-down screen to your deck or dock. Doing so allows you to enjoy sun when you want it and shade when you need it.
22. Pergolas, shade sails and structures covered by weatherresistant cloth, bamboo, reeds and vines also make for beautiful and functional escapes on
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hot lake days. See the article in this issue on ideas for shade structures.
25 23 23. Use a journal or guest book for visitors to sign, date and share memories of their visit to the lake. Or consider using a decorative box that can be displayed on your coffee table or a bookshelf. Fill it with card stock so guests can record “favorite thing about the lake,” “best meal” or “biggest laugh.”
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24. Install an outside shower for you and guests to rinse off before heading inside. Decorative hooks—like those shaped like flipflops or Adirondack chairs—are a must to hang towels and wet bathing suits. 25. Use a piece of driftwood to create a towel rack that is functional, whimsical and virtually free!
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26. Purchase a decorative Smith Mountain Lake map to frame and hang. Not only does it provide a stylish accent, it’s a great reference for visitors. Maps can also be used to create other home decor items, like personalized serving trays.
27. Make a clock on which every number on the dial is a 5 (because, at the lake, it’s always a good time for a party, right?). 28. Suspended beds are a popular new trend for porches. Or, for a more low-cost alternative, hang a hammock in one corner. Either way, you’ll have a cozy spot to catch a lake breeze while reading, relaxing or napping.
29. Stop by The General Store in Westlake and create a custom Smith Mountain Lake home decor item with or without a reference to the 50th anniversary. The shop offers laser engraving (text and graphics) for cutting boards, clocks, picture frames and more. 30. Purchase a variety of bright beach towels and assign each family member or guest a color. Everyone will always know which towel is his or hers, saving on loads of laundry. Station a giant basket near the door to your backyard (or wherever folks come in from the lake) and roll the towels up for easy access.
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33. Invest in acrylic beer mugs and wine glasses for the dock. Not only are they stylish, they eliminate the risk of injury from broken glass. Check out local gift stores for lake-themed products or browse etsy.com for monogrammed options. Floating wine glasses also are available online, as are floating drink holders.
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38. Indulge in one of two new wines Hickory Hill is marketing in honor of the lake’s golden anniversary. “Full Pond” and “66” are available boxed with two branded stemless wine glasses for $66 at the Moneta winery’s gift shop. (See smlwine.com for more information.)
31. Construct a makeshift towel “tree” with rods at varying heights to avoid towels strewn all over the dock, deck or house and to allow for quicker drying time.
32. Repurpose water skis or wakeboards into furniture. If you’re not particularly handy, search online for local and national companies that sell these whimsical chairs and benches.
36 34. Stock up on board games and keep them handy for evening and rainy-day fun.
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35. Jazz up a porch, deck or dock with a colorful outdoor rug. Choose one made from durable, allweather material for a comfortable and carefree style. 36. Got tons of great photos of friends and family enjoying Smith Mountain Lake just piling up on your phone? Create a gallery wall or a custom photo book using an online service such as Snapfish or Shutterfly. Make it manageable by tackling one season at a time. 37. For your next big party, fill a canoe or kayak with ice to use as a cooler. It makes a stylish beverage station for everything from a backyard barbeque to a casual lakeside wedding.
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39. Give your mailbox a fresh look by painting the post and adding lake-themed accents such as a sailboat or waves on the box itself. Local retail shops also offer lake-themed mailbox covers and garden flags. Add some low-maintenance plants at the base for a pop of color.
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40. Invite friends to bring their signature cocktail to your next party. Or create a signature cocktail of your own and give it a clever name. Not feeling creative? Try “Lake Water”—one part coconut rum, one part pineapple juice, one part Blue Curacao liqueur. Mix in a cocktail shaker, strain and pour over ice. 41. Add an inflatable party island so friends and neighbors can lounge in style! Many offer cooler space, cup holders and a mesh center to keep everyone cool. Amazon also sells a floating card table so you can lounge in the water and play games at the same time. See the article in this issue on hot new water toys.
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42. Purchase a corn hole set for fun in the yard, on the deck or even the dock. Or create your own with a kit ordered online or from a local building supply store. Consider customizing it with lake-related graphics in honor of SML’s 50th anniversary. SML Signs at Westlake 45. Perk up your porch, can help. deck or dock with colorful accessories 43. Jazz up some old such as throw pillows outdoor furniture with in all-weather fabric, a a new coat of paint in a lantern candle holder summery shade. Choose and planter boxes. Add a durable outdoor paint a large basket to keep that can be sprayed magazines handy for directly on to plastic or downtime. metal for a quick DIY project. 44. Commission a local artist to create an original sketch or painting of your home or dock. (The local Bald Knob Artists would be a good place to start.) Have it framed or create custom notecards with a 50th anniversary theme.
46. Frame your patio with a seating wall or bench to add extra space for guests to sit at get-togethers. Use hardscaped stone or decking materials. Bench seats can even be used to create extra storage space. 47. Plan a 50th anniversary-themed raft-up party. Have friends arrive by boat and then tie up together so guests can socialize and share snacks. Create a music play list that includes tunes from the past five decades to play on outdoor speakers. 48. Invest in a frozen drink machine for the home, deck or dock to produce icy beverages for adults (think margaritas) and
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kids (fruit slushies). Or if ice cream is more your thing, inexpensive options are available to make it homemade— perfect for a make-yourown sundae party for kids or grown-ups.
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49. A water carpet (also known as a water mat) is a fun dockside addition. Made of industrial-strength foam, these products allow entire families to walk, play and lounge together. They also are ideal for monitoring swimmers from the middle of the action instead of from the shoreline. 50. Don’t leave your pooch out of the water fun! In addition to a doggie life vest, consider purchasing a floating raft made especially for dogs such as the Pooch Pad from O’Brien Watersports. Water carpets, dog life vests and dog floaties are all available online and at Bridgewater Marina.
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n INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
HOME
F&S Building Innovations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Southern Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Fink’s Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Southern Landscape Group, Inc. . . . . . . . . 4,5
First Bank and Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Southern Roots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Glenda McDaniel, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Southwest Sunroom & Window Co.. . . . . . . 70
Grand Home Furnishings Outlet . . . . . . . . . 79
Spectrum Stone Designs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Groundscapes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Cabinet Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Holdren, Eubank & Stanley . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
The Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Homestead Creamery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
The Little Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
HomeTown Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
The Summit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Lake Retreat Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
The Vinyl Porch Rail Co.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
LinDor Arts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Timberlake Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Magnolia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Trez R Us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
M.H. Eades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Vicki Millehan, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
National Pools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Vinton Appliance Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Outtasight Window Tinting/ Vehicle Wraps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76, 107
Virginia Commonwealth Games at Liberty University. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88, 96
Peggy Overstreet, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Water Garden Designs by Tharpe Landscaping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
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DESIGN
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Acme Stove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Ayers Financial Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Barbara Brooks, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Bayside Marina & Yacht Club. . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Berkshire Hathaway Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Blackwater Nursery & Landscaping. . . . . . . 51
Bob Riddick Home Services.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
B P Roy Construction, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Bush-Flora Shoes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Carilion Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Carilion Clinic Cosmetic Center. . . . . . . . . . 89
Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital. . . . . . . 115
Centra Medical Group Plastic Surgery Center. . . 31 Perry Pools and Spas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Closet Storage Organizers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Webster Marine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Plyler Homes & Docks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
CMC Supply, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Westminster Canterbury. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Re/Max Lakefront Realty, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Debbie Shelton, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Whitt Carpet One Floor & Home. . . . . . . . . 93 Rainfrost Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Decorating Den Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Wired Up Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Designer Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Ronnie Mitchell & Son Landscaping & Lawncare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Embrace Home Loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . 74
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Wisler Plumbing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 6
We’re just getting started Healthcare close to home means convenient access to a growing number of medical specialties and services at Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital. With the full backing of Centra Medical Group’s network of medical and surgical specialists and primary care providers, Bedford Memorial continues to expand services for your community in support of Centra’s mission of Excellent Care for Life. EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT 540.425.7550 PRIMARY CARE Centra Medical Group – Bedford 1613 Oakwood St. Suite 201 540.586.7273 SPECIALTY SERVICES Centra Lab 1613 Oakwood St. 540.425.7530 Centra Medical Group Bedford Women’s Center 1615 Oakwood St. Suite D 540.425.7690 Centra Medical Group Bedford General Surgery Center 1615 Oakwood St. Suite B 540.425.7695
Centra Medical Group Neurology Center 1615 Oakwood St. Suite D 540.425.7699
Centra Rehabilitation
Centra Medical Group Bedford Pulmonology Center 1613 Oakwood St. Suite 202 540.587.7810
Radiology Department 1613 Oakwood St. 540.425.7510
Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center 1613 Oakwood St. 540.425.7540 Centra Medical Group Urology Center 1615 Oakwood St. Suite D 540.425.7699
Physical, speech and occupational therapy
1613 Oakwood St. 540.425.7670
SENIOR CARE Adult Day Center 1617 Oakwood St. 540.425.7680 Centra Hospice 1621 Whitfield Dr. 540.425.7685 Oakwood Health & Rehabilitation Center 1613 Oakwood St. 540.425.7800
Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital | bmhva.com | 540.586.2441 |
Final U nit availab s le
2016
If you want a realtor to outperform as no one else will, I can recommend Vicki Millehan. There’s just not enough hours in the day for all the details she will handle for you. Whether you’re buying or selling contact Vicki and you will not be disappointed.
Debbie is very knowledgeable, professional and accessible. She knows how to market to her target audience and follows through on details. She sold our home quickly and efficiently. We have already recommended her to others!
~ Phil Lucado
~ J.B. and Becky Smith
INTEGRITY, EXPERIENCE and AWARD -WINNING SERVICE Over 36 million SOLD in 2015. Visit our websites for complete listings & reviews.
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540.520.2401
Vicki@VickisLakeHomes.com www.VickisLakeHomes.com
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540.797.3177
Debbie@DebbieShelton.com www.DebbieShelton.com
©2016 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.