Smith Mountain Lake HOME 2015 Annual Edition by James River Media

HOME S M i t H M o u n tA i n l A K e

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leiSuRe GoeS luXe dream docks, refined refreshments & stylish outdoor furniture

INTERACTIVE CONTENT INSIDE

Living at the Lake

tour four unique lakeside homes

KITCHEN & BATH UPGRADE

one change makes a big impact

SML CHARITY HOME TOUR

a look behind the scenes

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS

protect your lot and the lake 2015 AnnuAl edition

Experience Life Refreshed.

Grow A Garden Of Love Come to Westminster Canterbury and hold hands and hearts forever. Replace chores and checklists with what really matters in life—your family and friends. Discover life anew with a swim in our indoor heated saltwater pool, a walk down our Nature Trail, fitness classes in our Wellness Center and lifelong learning opportunities at WC University. Westminster Canterbury means peace of mind—for you, for your family. We offer maintenance free living, 24-hour security, a financial safety net and a LifeCare program that’s nationally recognized by the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission. Your garden is blooming. Experience Life Refreshed. Start planning your future and experience Life Refreshed. Call Laura Hunter to schedule a tour, (434) 386-3305 • (800) 962-3520

A LifeCare Retirement Community 501 V.E.S. Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503 www.wclynchburg.org

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 we were voted Best of SML Landscaper 4 of the last 5 years. We could share that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve completed over 300 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. See FosterFuels.com for all of your propane and outdoor fuel needs.

Nadine Blakely REALTOR®, ASP, SRES Your Forest & Lynchburg Real Estate Specialist Over 118 families served in 2014! If you’re planning a move in 2015, Nadine will help you find your next home!

Breast Cancer Foundation

CHOOSE a Realtor who CHOOSES to GIVE BACK!

hospitals helping kids

Nadine Blakely gives from EVERY CLOSING to these charities and organizations. Nadine Blakely ALSO heavily supports local high schools, sports and community organizations.

(434) 444-2226 email: nadineblakely@remax.net

“Your Neighborhood Specialist” ®

1st Olympic, REALTORS®

For details on all my listings visit my website at:

www.NadineBlakelyHomes.com

Download Our App!

UNCOMPROMISING LUXURY. An ultimate in refined luxury, the Bennington R Series sets the benchmark for luxury pontoon boats. Stunning exterior profile lines wrap around an amazingly-rich interior to give owners a truly unique driving experience. Compliments from your passengers and other boat owners are sure to follow wherever a 2015 R series model travels. Make this boat your own with a wide selection of exterior/interior colors, graphics and textures.

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

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ANNU AL

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www.outtasightwindowtint.com S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate

We Make Great Neighbors.

As a part of the Smith Mountain Lak Lake ake community for fo over er 25 years, we are proud to be a locally owned and operated real estate company backed by the e power of Berkshire Berkshi rkshire e Hathaway Hath H thaway HomeServices. As one of the most dynamic and progressive real estate firms in the region we have earned ed a solid reputation in our market area. Our highly trained and qualified team understands local economic trends ends and h has an in-depth knowledge of the many fine communities available. Call or visit us today and work with h a co compa ny you can trust. Get to know us at SmithMtnLake.com. company Cathie Daniel Principal Broker

Carolyn Crabtree

Margaret Crayé

540-721-8659

540-520-2486

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540-493-8659

540-871-8655

Adam Lynch

Jan McGraw

Vicki Millehan

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Van Casteel Daniel

Eric Fansler

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Cindy Robertson

Genie Rust

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Toll Free: (800) 858-4653 Local: (540) 721-8659 SmithMtnLake.com

Tom Fansler

Amelia Gerner

Jane Sullivan Horne

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Alice Newbill

Carolyn Pruett

Pete Roberts

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Jeannie Villwock Kimberly Willard Waters Parker Waters

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Real-Estate Service of the Year 2014

Mobile App Available. Text BHHSVA301 to 87778 s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

According to Roanoke Valley Association of REALTORS MLS Data.

©2015 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.

■ editoR’S note There’s something really special about Smith Mountain Lake! History says the lake was designed to join the area’s best natural resources (the Roanoke River and the Blackwater River) into one body—additionally fed through connections with nearby tributaries, creeks and streams. If you think of the community of people who live at the lake in those same terms, it’s such a lovely metaphor! People come to the lake from all over, and each one brings something special to contribute to the community. Certainly, the lake’s natural beauty makes it an attractive place to be, but it’s the people of Smith Mountain Lake who make it magical. Our goal is to connect readers with the resources they need to create their dream home. We strive to present content that is both useful and inspirational—that perfect balance of “practical and pretty” that’s never out of reach. We’ll offer you solutions for various landscaping challenges common to the lake’s unique terrain, and explore your options for making affordable updates to your home. We have some fresh ideas about ways to feed and sleep a crowd of visitors…and how to entertain them! (You’ll definitely want to check out our article on “dream docks.”) It’s a small world at the lake and we’re thrilled to introduce you to some of the lake’s most colorful characters—folks who have moved here, jumped right in and started making a difference. They’ve graciously opened their homes for us. We know you’ll be smitten! Thanks for reading,

HOME S M i t H M o u n tA i n l A K e

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2015 AnnuAl edition PUBLISHER

Julie Pierce MANAGING EDITOR

Laurel Feinman EDITOR

Meridith Ingram ART DIRECTOR

Trisha Roth CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rachel Beanland Mitzi Bible Lucy Cook Laurel Feinman Patricia C Held Meridith Ingram Megan Jansen Ingrid McCrary Noelle Milam Rory Rhodes Deirdre Serio Christine Stoddard Jessie Thompson GRAPHIC ARTISTS

—LAUREL FEINMAN, MANAGING EDITOR

Tiffany Allen Edwana Coleman Helga Kaszewski

laurel@westwillowpublishing.com

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Beth Moore PHOTOGRAPHERS

tHeRe’S no PlACe liKe HoMe. When you want to reach the most responsive, most afﬂuent, most desirable audience at Smith Mountain Lake.

For advertising information or if you have a story idea, contact 434.386.5667

HOME S M i t H M o u n tA i n l A K e

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KG Thienemann Mark Thompson ADVERTISING SALES

Susan Creasy Lyn Marie Figel Liz Houhoulis Janet Lampman Julie Pierce CONTACT

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.

West Willow Publishing Group, LLC 3831 Old Forest Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2015 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 5

contents S m i t h M o u nt a in L a ke h o M e 2 0 15

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features dRe A M doC K S: t H e l i F e oF t H e PA R t Y

Upscale marine construction sets the stage for fun BY R o RY R h o d eS

Co- o w n i n G A VA C At i on H o M e

What happy homeowners know

BY R o RY R h o d eS

lA n dSC A P e C H A l l en G e Sol u t i on S

Ideas for dealing with slopes, erosion and more

63 94

BY Lau R e L F e i n Ma n

ne w l i V eS At t H e lA K e

Three fabulous homes BY Lau R e L F e i n Ma n a n d M eg a n Ja n S e n

B ui ld i n G A Fo R e V eR H o M e, n ow

One couple decides not to wait for retirement BY J e S S i e T h o M p S o n LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HoMe Magazine s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

S m i t h M o u nt a in L a ke h o M e 2 0 15

departments 87

104

110

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31 S l e e PinG A C Rowd Making your home comfortable for overnight guests

38 GRe en li V i n G At tHe l AKe Protecting the lake for the future

60 C on tA i n eR G A Rden S Easy-care gardens anyone can grow

26 i t ’ S F i V e o’ C l o C K S o Mew H e R e Sips and snacks to have on hand when guests drop by

BY M e R i d iTh i n g R aM

BY paTR i C ia C h e Ld

BY n o e LLe M i LaM

BY Lu CY C o o k

75 l A K e-tHeM ed ARtwoRK Using local treasures to decorate your home

50 oRGAni ze Yo u R SuMMeR SundRi eS Keeping everything handy and at-the-ready

80 BA l A n Cin G A C t Pairing craft beers with food

BY C h R i STi n e STo d daR d

BY i n g R i d M C C R aRY

110 t H i n K SP Ri n G du Ri n G G A Rden w eeK SML featured on this year’s Historic Garden Week Tour

104 o u t dooR F u R nit uRe New materials stylishly beat the heat

87 uPdAte YouR Coun teR toP S One upgrade that makes a big difference

BY M iTz i B i B Le

BY Lu CY C o o k

84 B e Hi n d t H e SC en eS: SM l C H AR i tY H o M e t o uR Learn how the lake’s longest-running home tour happens BY R aC h e L B ean Lan d

92 P o R tA Bl e w i Rel eS S SP e A K eRS Take the tunes wherever you go

BY d e i R d R e S e R i o

S P e CiA l int eReSt 1 1 4 Index of advertisers 14

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

smlhomemaga zine .com

DREAM DOCKS lakeside leisure goes luxe

BY R o RY R h o d eS

A lakeside dock is, first and foremost, a practical item, used for launching and tying up watercraft, and sometimes for the pursuit of that elusive catch. But why stop there? In recent years, docks have increasingly become places of leisure and comfortâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an extension of the home, where people spend countless hours during the outdoor season. There is no shortage of ideas and gadgets to help dock owners make their waterside launch pad a destination in its own right. At Smith Mountain Lake, homeowners and builders collaborate to create dream docks that will delight and entertain for years to come. 16

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smlhomemaga zine .com

p h ot o p rov i d e d by Tur n e r ’s B uil din g , i n c .

Party Central

Like many Smith Mountain Lake residents, Lynn and Clay Johnston fell in love with the area while on vacation. They’d been coming to the lake since 1983, and had rented a house for a number of years before finally deciding to make a permanent move from Chicago. In 2000, they built their house and its dock, which has undergone four different renovations over the years. The dock’s current style is one that truly reflects this couple’s relaxed and fun-loving approach to living—and their love of all things Jimmy Buffet. The Johnstons’ dock is designed for what Lynn calls their “sunrise-to-sunset days,” with shaded seating and amenities like a ceiling fan, stereo, and a stocked fridge in the boathouse. Clay says, “We view the dock as another room of the house,” and Lynn adds that it’s her favorite room of all. But what sets it apart from the other docks is its colorful Parrothead theme. While the Johnstons have accumulated much of the dock décor through their travels, other whimsical details have been supplied over the years by friends and family. The attractive tan-andwhite shingled structure is dotted with hand-painted chairs and custom furniture, and the boathouse is hung with colorful signs and objects. Several pieces proclaim this to be “Pop and Hop’s 5 O’Clock Bar.” Lynn explains, “It’s in honor of two special people in our family that we lost. My father, Pop, in 1995, and 1 8

my sister’s husband, Hop, in 2003.” As everyone knows, it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere, and the Johnstons are consummate hosts. Clay says, “We spend our weekends down there, so it’s a common occurrence when you’re having a quiet afternoon that a boat pulls up and, next thing you know, you’ve got a big party going on.” In fact, the Johnstons not only welcome these visits, they plan them. For several years now, they have hosted a “raft-up” at their dock, where people arrive by boat and tie up to a neighbor’s boat for a floating party. And not just any party: this one has live entertainment direct from Key West. For a couple of years they had popular Key West singer/songwriter Scott Kirby, and last year it was the Calypso Nuts, a steel drum duo. Clay plays steel drums and will sometimes join the entertainment, to the delight of his guests. When the idea for a tropical “raft-up” first struck, the Johnstons invited some friends to drop anchor and bring their coolers, promising live entertainment. That first year, they figured the party would consist of the four or five neighboring docks in their cove, plus a few friends. As it turned out, they had 48 boats and in excess of 300 people. A friend in attendance joked that he was impressed they could throw a party for 300 people without dirtying up their house. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

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S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o m e 2 0 1 5

In addition to the annual bash, throughout summer at least a few other parties either are planned or just break out. On a couple of occasions, the Johnstons have tuned into Margaritaville TV, setting up a big screen on the dock and hooking up their iPad and stereo speakers to live stream a Jimmy Buffet concert. Or they’ll use satellite TV to watch a sporting event out on the dock with friends. They even hosted their nephew’s dockside wedding, with Clay officiating and the place was decked out with nice linens and silverware. Sometimes, being the party destination means plans are subject to change. According to Lynn, her uncle and his wife visit every July to celebrate their wedding anniversary. A couple of years ago, they made a dinner reservation at The Landing and were sitting on the dock, enjoying cocktails beforehand, when a boat pulled up. “Next thing we know we have 24 people on our dock with coolers and food. Needless to say, we never made it to dinner that night!” Lynn adds that though her aunt was sorry to miss their anniversary dinner, “That’s the kind of stuff we love about living where we live.”

Voted SML’s Best Dock Builder by readers of the Smith Mountain Laker magazine in 2005-2014 • FREE ESTIMATES! s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

So, What Makes a Party Dock?

Other than having spirited, amenable hosts, what makes for a great party dock? Before building or renovating a dock, you need to make certain you have the proper permits from your county and Appalachian Electric Power. In 2003, AEP introduced a Shoreline Management Plan, which limits the size of new construction. So if you’re looking to build a dock from scratch, your builder will work with you to make sure you have the required water depth and shoreline footage to build the dock of your dreams. If, however, your dock was built prior to 2003, it might well have a larger footprint than what is possible today. Jason Turner, president of Turner’s Building, one of the largest and longest-running dock businesses on the lake, bought his lake home mostly for its oversized dock, which is almost 3,000 square feet. He says that the spaciousness of the dock, with its large boathouse and a separate storage room, as well as multiple tie-ups for boats and jet skis, meant that there was enough space for his four children and their various water toys. “Enjoyment on our dock is to be able to spend most of the day there,” says Turner. “We go down around lunchtime and are down there until dinnertime.” If you have a pre-2003 dock, upgrades are possible, as long as you stay within the existing footprint and Shoreline Management Plan’s parameters. Whether doing new construction or renovation, a key consideration on a dock is layout. Turner says docks can feel congested when attention isn’t given to how people will travel around the space. For example, make sure you don’t have a narrow entrance to the main sitting area.

p h ot o p rov i d e d by Tur n e r ’s B uil din g , i n c .

p h ot o p rov i d e d by p l y l e r h o m e s a n d d o c ks

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p h ot o gr a p hy by J e re mi a h gu e lzo

Next, think about shade. One of the first questions Turner asks a client is how much shade versus sun they’d like. Some folks want their docks entirely covered, while others like to leave some open space for sunning. Clay Johnston says that at parties, everyone tends to congregate under the shade and notes that, as he’s getting older, his feeling is, “The more shade, the better.” Erik Plyler, vice president of Plyler Homes and Docks, is the third generation of dock builders and land developers who have been in business over 30 years. He also suggests that clients cover a good portion of their dock with a roof to protect from sun and heat, adding, “Double-decker docks, which were popular 20 years ago, are no longer in demand because it’s just too hot up there. And the waterproofing system under that deck actually radiates heat back up.” Turner notes that in the last ten years he’s torn out of lot of double-decker docks and put on roofs instead. Most recently designed docks feature a pitched roof. A finished ceiling underneath will keep birds out of the rafters, hide lift machinery and prevent grease from dripping down, and also visually brighten the space. Add a set of pull-down attic steps, not only to service the boat lifts, but also because Plyler says with a vaulted ceiling and plywood floor, “You can use the space for extra storage, which is not counted in the 72 squarefeet limit for boathouses required by the Shoreline Management Plan.” He’s also seen windows put at the end of that attic space, both for looks and ventilation. You can add a ceiling fan under your roof, though Plyler warns that some areas on the lake are windy enough to blow a fan away during a strong storm. Turner’s boathouse has a standard fan mounted to the wall of the storage area, which blows a nice breeze through the area they use to store and prep their fishing tackle.

Voted the

BEST BUILDER at SML TWO years in a row.

M.H. Eades, Inc. is your top quality contractor for Smith Mountain Lake and surrounding areas if you are building a new home or dock, adding on or remodeling an existing home, or just need minor construction. The goal of M.H. Eades, Inc. is to provide customers with the best possible construction, building products, attention to detail, and personal service available. 540-719-4306 • www.MHEades.com • Home Design Showroom located at 14114 Booker T. Washington Hwy. • Moneta, VA 24121 s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Dream docks aren’t too dreamy when they require a lot of upkeep. For this reason, many dock owners are going with maintenance-free composite decking as opposed to wood. Composite decking is eco-friendly (it’s made from scrap or reclaimed wood and recycled plastic), will last for years without having to worry about painting, warping, or rotting, and comes in a variety of colors. Plus, no splinters! The majority of your dock is going to be stationary— supported by either treated wood pilings or steel I-beams, depending on your dock location—but it’s also nice to have a floating dock for fluctuations in water level. The floating dock will attach to your stationary structure and allow for easy in-andout access and boat tying. Plyler suggests completing the dock structure with a set of access stairs, which are useful for both young and old. “Build them next to the shore where the water is shallow, with a handrail and four or five steps down to the lake.” Though new boathouses at Smith Mountain Lake have size limitations, you can still outfit them handsomely. Plyler says, “Many storage buildings can incorporate a bar with a roll-up 2 4

door in the window.” Inside, keep a refrigerator stocked with cold drinks, snacks, and barware, as well as your sound system. Turner says, “A lot of docks now have granite bar countertops. We’re starting to see the same high-end materials you’d use in your home on your dock.” It’s not uncommon to see docks with flat screen TVs, and Plyler says that since an all-weather TV can cost thousands of dollars, many owners opt to place a less expensive regular TV on their dock for the season, and replace as needed. One of Turner’s favorite features on his dock is the modified irrigation system he installed last year, which uses a pressure tank fixed to a hose bib on the outside of his boathouse. When he turns on the valve, the system pulls water from the lake and gives him water pressure to hose down the dock and his boat. Plyler says he has seen lake water used for a misting system— a neat option for those who aren’t up for a dunk on steamy summer days! Remote-controlled gadgets are high on any list of modern dream dock attributes. Both Plyler and Turner say they install a lot of remote-control lifts for boats and jet skis, which allow you S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

to glide in, push the button, and ride your boat up to the dock. Turner notes that it’s especially handy given the fluctuations in water level on the lake. He also enjoys having remote controls for his dock’s ceiling lights, saying that on evening cruises, “You can leave the lights off so no bugs come in, then turn them on when you get to the cove.” A final dream feature for Plyler is an automatic boat cover, a high-end component where a custommade metal frame and cover is attached to a motor, and can mount to your boatlift. With this gadget, “You just pull your boat in, hit a button, and it’s covered,” he says. The finishing touch for creating your dream dock is one that is close to Clay Johnston’s heart. As the owner of Outdoor Lighting Expressions, Clay knows the value of creating ambiance and luster with good lighting. He uses low-voltage lighting on their dock, both for safety and to create an attractive nighttime effect on the water. With twinkle lights outlining the roofline of the dock, tiki torches here and there, and various palm and banana trees lit up on the grounds, the effect is magical and resort-like. Clay and Lynn Johnston love hosting parties, and joke that their next goal is to create a music festival called “Lakestock.” But after the party’s over, their favorite time is Sunday night in their quiet cove, sipping a glass of wine on their dock at the end of another splendid sunrise-to-sunset day. Select photography by KG Thienemann

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■ LIVE doCKtAil HouR

Docktail Hour At-the-Ready Snacks for Spontaneous Fun BY Lu CY Co o k

If you hear the roar of a motor or the squeal of a skier approaching your dock as the sun begins to fade, you know it’s your turn for “Docktail Hour”! All it takes to up the ante with delicious snacks and drinks while making your life easier is a little planning ahead. There’s nothing more fun—and more vacation-like—than enjoying drinks with friends. It always feels better to be able to yell “Come on over!” than to duck and hope no one stops by. If you think it through, and your pantry is stocked, you’ll be ready to host a crew every night! It all begins with having a plan. Start at the grocery store with a pantry-filling run. There are great things to keep on hand that will be good for a week or two (or are shelf stable) that make great appetizers. Start with the easy stuff: trail mix, a wedge of cheese, olives and nuts. Make sure you have some good jam to pair with the cheese—like a fig and ginger flavor—or fruit to add to the platter, and a nice salami (they last for months unopened). Then add in some fun snacks that are easy to assemble, like those we’ve included here. Another think-ahead tactic: If you’re grilling tonight, throw a few extra ingredients on the grill that could be part of your snack buffet tomorrow (like red peppers for crostini, or the peach and prosciutto slices). To avoid the house-dock relay, have a basket of things for the dock ready. As soon as the wine glasses and platters come out of the dishwasher, put them back in the dock basket. You should also include napkins (cloth napkins are harder to care for, but don’t blow away quite as easily), a wine/ bottle opener, spreaders and a few plates. For music lovers, a small wireless speaker that allows you to play music from your phone may be a great

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addition. Citronella candles or bug spray keep the party going longer, and a trash bag makes the clean up easier. In the past ten years, there have been great leaps of progress in the area of unbreakable dishes and glasses. Loads of appealing patterns are available in dishes and platters—from large discounters all the way to high-end retailers. (We like the patterns at FrenchBull.com!) On the dock, stemless, unbreakable glasses are a must; one well-chosen 12-ounce cup can easily double for cocktails or wine. Monogrammed plastic cups come in smallerthan-keg-party sizes now, and can be imprinted with your last name, your house’s name, or the name of your boat, just for fun! Pack a cooler too. Start with frozen water bottles and juice boxes instead of ice. Add other favorite drinks, or the ingredients for our blackberry lemonade, and any other foods you may be serving. Remember food safety: Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Perishable food should only be kept out of refrigeration for a maximum of two hours (maybe even less on a hot, sunny day!) Most of all, enjoy yourself! You’ve got a whole summer ahead. Happy hosting!

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Crostini (each French loaf makes about 24) Crostini is always a crowd-pleaser; do one big platter of the same kind, or pick a few variations and allow for choices. French bread Olive oil Toppings: Herbed cream cheese and chopped kalamata olives Fresh mozzarella and roasted red pepper strips Pimento cheese and chopped bacon Ricotta cheese and sliced peaches Slice the bread into ¾ inch slices. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil. Spread in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake in a 300-degree oven for about 10 minutes, until lightly browned and crisp. Top with suggestions above or use your own combinations.

Layered Hummus (Serves 8) Guests always love the standard seven-layer Mexican dip—you know the one: refried beans, tomatoes, cheese… This is a newer version, using flavors from another part of the world. I’ve included instructions on making your own hummus (it’s easy!), but you can always use storebought hummus in a pinch. 1 can garbanzo beans, drained 1 small clove garlic 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 tablespoons water ¼ cup tahini paste (read the jar carefully; ground sesame seeds are the only ingredient) 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ cup crumbled feta 8 kalamata olives, chopped 3 scallions, sliced ¼ cup roasted red pepper, chopped ½ cup seeded cucumber, chopped 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Combine first six ingredients in the bowl of a food processor to make the hummus. Puree until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Spread hummus on a platter into a circle about 8 inches in diameter. Sprinkle with remaining ingredients. Serve with toasted pita chips and raw vegetables. 2 8

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■ DESIGN SleePinG A CRowd

SLUMBER PARTY Tips for Sleeping a Crowd BY M eR i d i T h i n g R a M

When you live somewhere as wonderful as Smith Mountain Lake, you can expect visitors. Lots of them. A weekend with extended family, Fourth of July with your neighbors back in Lynchburg (and their four children!), an annual reunion with your eight best friends from college or a poker weekend with the guys…all are cause for celebration. But at the end of the day filled with fun and sun, everyone is going to need a place to rest their weary heads. How can you accommodate all these visitors with a smile, embracing a “the more the merrier” attitude, while still providing everyone with a comfortable, private place to catch some zzzs? Whether you live here full time or call Smith Mountain Lake your home away from home, chances are you have put some thought into guest quarters. You probably have a guest room or two, but could always use a few more beds for those bigger visits. Whatever your housing scenario, we offer some tips to help you rethink your sleeping spaces. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Transformed for Guests

For starters, the easiest way to accommodate guests is with the space and the furniture you already have. The key to comfort here is two-fold: great bedding, and privacy. Buy the best guest bedding you can afford; a nice thread count, new fluffy pillows and a cushy mattress topper go a long way in making your guests forget they are sleeping on your second-best mattress, a pull-out sofa or an air mattress. Sleeper sofas have come a long way in terms of comfort, whether they are the primary piece in your family or rec room, or tucked away in a guest room or office. Double-decker air mattresses, or those built on a frame that unfolds with the flick of a switch, make the feel of sleeping on a raft a thing of the past. 3 2

For a soft spot that’s a stylish step up from a sleeping bag, check out the “throwbed” by Hedgehouse. Something like a chichi camp mattress, this comfy pouf can be rolled up and tucked away, or left spread out on a bench as a cushion. Their patterns—classic ticking and campy stripes—are a perfect addition to lakeside décor. Whatever temporary bedding you offer you guests, they will feel most comfortable if they have a sense of privacy. If your guests will be sleeping anywhere but a room with a door, a standing screen is the easiest way to create a room-within-aroom. Your guests will appreciate this simple barrier against the hustle and bustle of a busy household that’s winding down or gearing up for another day of fun. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

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Bunking Down

There’s something universally appealing—to children anyway— about the bunk bed. They’re fun. And bunkrooms are a great solution for packing in as many beds as possible, putting that precious vertical space into play. Make use of the room’s corners, situating two sets of bunks in an L-shape to minimize the beds’ footprint and maximize floor space for playing. Keep the rest of the décor in the room simple; there’s really no need for bulky dressers or end tables if this is a special occasion sleeping spot for youngsters. Low baskets that slide under the bed provide great storage for your guests’ bags or extra bedding, and easy bed skirts will hide this storage gear. Bunkrooms don’t have to be limited to sleeping the young. Consider bunks that have a double or even a queen as the bottom bunk for the parents, and a child can sleep up top. Throw a trundle beneath the bottom bunk and you might have a cozy space that would be appropriate for a family with young children. And a bunkroom doesn’t have to mean double-decker beds. Consider lining up twin beds head to head, along the walls or even down the middle of the room, dormitory style. This works particularly well in a top-story room with dormered ceilings that make traditional two-story bunks impossible. In fact, if you really love the idea of bunks, and have the benefit of a blank palette and a clever contractor, you can really get creative with custom bunks. Loft beds, elevated and built with storage underneath (think drawers, shelves with baskets, alcoves for playing), allow you make the most of your lakehouse guest space, particularly for your young visitors.

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Also, think outside the bunkroom; consider tucking bunks in unexpected places, like a hallway or upstairs landing, where you can line the walls with private berths akin to sleeping cars on a train. Decorative molding and sleek built-in ladders can make these bunks an architectural feature in your home. Choose an eggshell or glossy paint, and employ pretty curtains for each berth, and you’ve created a personal hideaway that is sure to delight guests young and old. Go all out and install sconces in each space so occupants can read their way to sleep. Whatever your bunk situation, remind yourself that bunks are not the place for elaborate, fussy bedding. Making a bunk bed can be a daunting task that takes the fun out of the design. Though purists may balk at the idea, consider using only a bottom, fitted sheet, and a washable quilt or blanket as the top cover. Many kids thrash that flat sheet down to a tangle at the foot of the bed anyway, and it’s just one more step of the bedmaking process to add to the frustration. For bunks in a hallway or open area, tuck all bedding in—at least on the side that shows in the room—for an uncluttered look. Also keep a small footstool by the bunk beds to help you maneuver around making that top bunk. Keep it simple—lake living is supposed to be easy! And with so many stylish options for beds and bedding, your bunkroom need not look like a sleepaway camp or youth hostel. When dressing the beds in a bunkroom, keep bedding consistent and neutral. Consider all white or maybe fresh chambray sheeting for all the beds, covered with quilts in solids or simple patterns. Personalize each with a colorful throw at the foot of the bed, or monogrammed shams for your regular guests. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Play By Day, Sleep by Night

Would you believe that Murphy beds are making a comeback? No longer a prop for slapstick comedy sketches, the Murphy bed is a great option when space is at a premium or when you want one room to do double duty. The Murphy bed can fold up into a shelving unit, a desk or even a sofa—many of which don’t even have to be dismantled or undone to use the bed, thanks to clever technology that allows installation on a rotating axle. Murphy beds can unfold perpendicularly into the room, or even parallel to the wall. Installation by a professional is key, but the result creates a truly multifunctional space and a comfortable bed. A daybed is a great piece of furniture for sleeping extra guests, because aesthetically, it reads like seating during the day, making its home in almost any room, while providing ample room to stretch out by night. Generous throw pillows and structured sides continue the theme of a stylish couch, and a tailored bedskirt even allows you tuck a trundle beneath it. These work well in the family room, on a screened porch, even in a reading nook—but here’s the place where the standing screen might come in handy to allow privacy by night. Particularly at the lake, guests may enjoy sleeping nearer to the stars. A screened porch is the perfect spot to include more beds for sleeping through summer nights. An old-fashioned sleeping porch, usually on the second floor, recalls those simpler times when air conditioning wasn’t even an option. If you really want to amp up the fun, outfit your porch with a hanging swing bed. Installing the swing bed is the kind of job best left to the professionals, but before you hire it out, keep in mind a few

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practical considerations. You’ll need at least a four-foot arc to allow the bed ample room to swing; and you should use either stainless or galvanized steel, or marine-grade braided nylon or polyester, to suspend it, to best withstand the elements. You should also encase your mattress in plastic to prevent issues with mildew. Experts say that the best wood to use for this kind of project is cedar or cypress for their hearty ability to withstand the elements; if you use pine or poplar, two other popular choices, make sure it’s treated properly—stained, painted, sealed—to prevent moisture issues. And what if you are really at maximum capacity and the idea of an air mattress in the kitchen just doesn’t cut it? Don’t forget you may have a whole other place that’s a viable option: your boat! If you have a boat with sleeping berths, send your most adventuresome, flexible guests—those that aren’t susceptible to seasickness—for a night on the water. The same bedding rules apply: great sheets, warm blankets and soft pillows. Send guests down with a package of necessities—a flashlight or headlamp, water bottles, extra blankets, and maybe a cell phone so guests can text you to ask when breakfast will be ready. Perhaps the most important thing to do when preparing to host an overnight crowd? Tire them out! Provide a day of fresh air and festivities, and your guests will be so worn out they will likely sleep just fine. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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■ IMPROVE GReen liVinG

Keeping it Green

INITIATIVES AROUND THE LAKE PROTECT NATURAL RESOURCES BY paT R i Ci a C h eL d

With a lush backdrop of Blue Ridge Mountains, undulating shoreline, residential and rural landscapes and wide-ranging inlets, Smith Mountain Lake is a haven for wildlife and people. Known as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains,” landowners and commercial entities alike are concerned about keeping this “jewel” intact and pristine and are taking steps to help keep the region beautiful forever. The 2,000-acre Smith Mountain Lake was created in 1963 when American Electric Power (AEP) constructed the Smith Mountain Dam and impounded the Roanoke River. Appalachian Power, a subsidiary of AEP, is licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to operate the Smith Mountain Project, which generates power at their hydro-electricity plant to provide electricity to the region. The lake’s proximity to Lynchburg and Roanoke as well as the myriad recreational opportunities it presents make it a popular retreat. It’s also magnet for development, as people nationwide recognize the beauty of the area and the benefits of lakeside living. Amidst the hustle and bustle of a vibrant area, environmentally sound practices help ensure that Smith Mountain Lake remains pristine. Volunteers, citizen groups and non-profits, conservationminded developers as well as AEP have all worked through various means and initiatives that strive to keep Smith Mountain Lake green and beautiful.

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

Protecting the Shoreline

Appalachian Power is one organization which plays a big role in green initiatives at Smith Mountain Lake. John Shepelwich, a representative of AEP, says, “At the Smith Mountain Project we take our stewardship very seriously, and on a daily basis protect the aesthetics, environment and wildlife. As part of our Shoreline Management Plan, we focus on the scenic, environmental and life aspects of the shoreline.” The Shoreline Management Plan is a comprehensive plan intended to manage the multiple resources and uses of the lakes’ shorelines, so that they are consistent with AEP’s Federal Energy Regulatory Commission licensing requirements. Today, the fact that Smith Mountain will remain an undisturbed natural resource is an enormous asset to the area. Smith Mountain is preserved with a conservation easement which protects the mountain from development. “Lake property owners and visitors will never see an interruption of the long tree-filled mountainside,” says Shepelwich. AEP’s island protection plan is another example of this stewardship. This program involves the stabilization of islands in danger of erosion. Shepelwich explains that the islands dotting Smith Mountain Lake were at one time hilltops before the lake reached normal water level. They tend to be susceptible to erosion from both wave action and trampling by visitors. Only a few islands are privately owned; the rest are public or owned by AEP. If the islands erode too far, they could become a hazard to boaters by leaving large shallow areas in open water. Sheplewich explains that AEP has agreed to stabilize any islands that are in danger as part of its licensing agreement. Shepelwich says that AEP also offers programs that support energy efficiency, explaining that they can assist homeowners with cutting energy use at their homes. A new program allows the company to provide financial incentives to customers who are willing to cycle off their cooling/heating compressors for short periods during times of high energy usage. Another program AEP offers is for customers who use solar energy. Solar energy is fast becoming a source for power and heat in and around the lake, with some residents opting to install solar panels on their docks and open spaces of land. AEP customers who use solar power can take part in their net metering program, which enables them to sell back excess power generated by their systems. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Monitoring Water Quality

The Smith Mountain Lake Association (SMLA) is a volunteer group whose mission it is to protect property values at the lake. Water quality is top on the list of the group’s priorities. To address this, the group concentrates its efforts on water analysis, weed control and lake cleanup. The association teams up with AEP and Ferrum College to analyze water samples. According to Rich Brager, a SMLA representative, volunteers collect water samples and take them to experts at Ferrum. These studies indicate the current nitrogen, phosphorous and oxygen levels in the water and the quality of the water. SMLA also monitors invasive weeds and works toward their eradication. In the past they used chemical herbicides in an attempt to kill lake weeds. But last year the association purchased and released thousands of sterile grass-eating carp. “And so far they are doing their job,” says Brager. Each spring, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce and the Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission, SMLA sponsors Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake Cleanup Day. This year’s event—the 28th annual—is slated for May 2. Volunteers converge on the lake and along its shores to gather trash. Last year, 700 volunteers collected 52 tons of debris, and this year, officials hope to have 1,000 volunteers participate. 4 0

Another project the association manages is stream monitoring. Volunteers collect invertebrates in the water, and the different species are counted and identified. Invertebrate species are often indicators of water quality. Some prefer healthy water and others prefer unhealthy water. By analyzing the counts, researchers can assess the purity of the lake water. The association’s Buffer Landscape Committee assists homeowners in selecting native plants in accordance with the Shoreline Management Plan’s 800-foot contour buffer landscape requirements. Volunteers visit homes and offer suggestions regarding what types of plants are appropriate to install on their property, including native plants that help filter run off and aid in erosion control. Green Building Practices

Developers in the area are also supporting environmentally sound practices. One company that embraces green building is The Willard Companies, a lakeside developer known for well-constructed, high-end housing. By implementing sustainable design, they have earned designations from both EarthCraft, which promotes energy efficient housing, and Energy Star, which encourages the use of energy efficient products for the home. “We started our affiliation with EarthCraft and Energy Star over seven years ago and it has transformed how we build homes

today,” says Ron Willard II, vice president of Willard Companies. EarthCraft endorses energy efficiency at its best with homes that are more energy efficient, eco-friendly and less costly to live in. EarthCraft homes are very durable and use sustainable resources for building materials. Concrete with fly ash, cellulose insulation, carpets of recycled material and windows and insulation not only meeting but exceeding codes for efficiency are all part of the equation. Energy Star appliances are also an integral part of the program. Energy Star is a program from the United States Environmental Protection Agency that helps identify and promote energyefficient products and practices. Such choices can save families about one third on their energy bill without sacrificing features, style and comfort. Willard says that most homebuyers are educated on green building components and interested in all the energy efficient options available, including insulation, windows, HVAC and solar energy—but it’s how these options are combined that makes an impact on overall great design. Two new developments by The Willard Companies feature this green construction. The Grande Villas at the Water’s Edge and Hammock Point at The Farm are designed and certified in accordance with EarthCraft House and Energy Star programs. These low-impact S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

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developments are designed to create a healthy, tranquil indoor setting plus reduce utility bills to protect the environment. “Smith Mountain Lake must keep up with other surrounding markets and deliver what the customer wants in energy efficient living,” says Willard. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The county recycling program is one way that every family can become involved in keeping the lake area clean. Bedford County has numerous collection sites within the county as well as the County landfill that collects building materials and heavy items. Cardboard, mixed paper, newspaper, glass, plastic and metal cans are all recycled. Used cell phones plus batteries, both alkaline and rechargeable, can be brought to collections sites. Most sites will also take men’s and women’s clothing and shoes as well as blankets and curtains. And the landfill recycles all electronics including computers, television monitors, copiers, fax machines, VCRs, DVD players and microwaves. Franklin County recycles newspapers, cardboard, aluminum, tin and steel cans and plastic bottles and jugs. Recycling helps keep salvageable refuse out of the landfill. Embracing green initiatives makes good sense, helping to protect the environment and in many cases homeowners’ wallets. Many entities in the area are invested in initiatives to keep Smith Mountain Lake green and pristine—protecting the water and the shoreline as well as striving for energy efficiency and conservation. And for our area, taking these steps will help ensure this lovely section of Virginia remains an extraordinary spot in perpetuity.

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SHARING SPACES

The Ins and Outs of Fractional Ownership BY R o RY R h o d eS

Living on Smith Mountain Lake is a reality for some, and a dream for many more. Who among us hasn’t fantasized about watching the seasons change and the sun set over the water from the comfort of our own deck? Full-time lake living may not be possible or practical for a variety of reasons. There could be a busy career that can’t permanently relocate to the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. Kids might need shuttling to far-flung activities. Retired snowbirds may need or want to divide time between more than one location. Perhaps we have Champagne dreams but more of a Prosecco budget. This is where the idea of fractional ownership comes in. Wait a second—is that like a timeshare? Not quite. With a timeshare, you might spend a week or two per year at a vacation property, and you’ll be sharing it with many other partners. With fractional ownership, however, you’re part owner of the property itself, not just the vacation time you spend there. This comes with the increased responsibilities of homeownership, but multifamily ownership is a great option for those who want more of a second home than simply an annual vacation experience. It’s also used by many for investment purposes. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Like most desirable locations, prime real estate in Smith Mountain Lake can be hard to find and prohibitively expensive. While the concept of fractional ownership is on the rise both nationally and globally, it is a new trend at Smith Mountain Lake. Most of us are familiar with the idea of fractional ownership involving family members: Mom and Dad buy a vacation home, which eventually passes down to siblings, and so on from there. In these cases, it’s a good bet that wills and lawyers ironed out most of the details when the property exchanged hands. But what if you and a friend or family member are considering purchasing a vacation home together, and are starting from scratch? Such was the case with Mark and Jennifer McLaughlin of Lynchburg. About five years ago, Mark and Jennifer purchased a fixerupper on Smith Mountain Lake with their friends. Avid lake enthusiasts (Mark is a barefoot water-skier), for some time they’d been driving up to the lake from the Boonsboro area and launching their boat from a public landing. They often brought along their teenage son’s good pal, whose parents they had become friends with through school. In the summer of 2009, they invited the other family to share a rental house on the lake. Through the course of their stay, the McLaughlins mentioned that they wanted to purchase property on the lake and had looked at a condo, but the deal fell through. The two couples tossed around the idea of buying a house together, and when the perfect property came on the market, they made an offer, and suddenly found themselves the co-owners of a lake house. Great news! Now what? 4 4

Figure Out Finances

First, let’s talk finances. When purchasing a multi-family home, you’ll want to set up a collaborative system for handling the financial aspects, including both the monthly mortgage payments and other bills. Sit down with your partners and draw up an annual budget of recurring and anticipated expenses. Will that roof need to be replaced soon? Is the dock in good shape? Does the home need any interior renovating? Decide if you’re going to hire services for landscaping, cleaning and the like. A cleaning service means no one has to spend their last day of the weekend cleaning, or worry about different standards of housekeeping. Don’t forget to pad your budget with a little reserve for unexpected items. Once you know your overhead, determine how you want to manage the payments. It’s important to understand each partner’s perspective and priorities here, and figure out what works best to keep everyone on the same page. Automatic payments can keep mortgage and recurring payments running smoothly, and you can work out a system for sharing additional costs that arise. Perhaps you’ll keep track of receipts and settle up on a quarterly or semi-annual basis. Or maybe families will divide expenses by category. There are many different approaches to consider, and the most important thing is to come to an arrangement that makes sense for you. The McLaughlins established a joint checking account with their partners. Each family transfers money into the account, which is set up to autopay the mortgage and recurring bills. Each partner also has a check card to use for expenses (such as repairs) that arise. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

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Booking Vacation Time

The next key step is determining usage rights, which will help define the rest of your arrangement. You may plan to spend a lot of your time there together, or you may want to divvy it up, depending upon your needs and wishes. In the event that one party is contributing more capital, it’s only fair that they get a proportional say in the time spent at the vacation home. If both parties are equal contributors, sit down together and draw up a schedule that works for everyone. If one family gets the Fourth of July, perhaps the other family will have Memorial and/or Labor Day weekends. Let’s say one family wants to be there for the fishing tournament or boat show, maybe the other will take Lake Pirate Days. If there’s a particularly desirable week on the calendar, offer to alternate years of who gets it. Set a schedule but allow for flexibility, because there’s sure to be some date trading. Don’t forget to discuss rentals. Will you be using the home regularly, or will there be stretches of vacant time when some rental income would be welcome? If you’re open to the idea of renting out the property, decide how this process will be handled. Does someone in your party want to take on the responsibility of listing and renting your house via websites such as VRBO and Homeaway, or would you rather hire a vacation management company to handle the details? Either way, you’ll need to talk about rules for renters, such as pets, smoking, capacity and use of amenities. 4 6

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Outfitting Your Home

Once you’ve got the budget and the calendar in order, you can focus on design and décor. If your new home needs work, you’ve probably already gone over some basic renovation plans when setting up your budget. Develop and prioritize a project list, and figure out how much you can tackle yourself, and where a professional will be necessary. For doit-yourselfers, work to your strengths. Divide tasks by skill and inclination as much as possible. Someone who’s handy with a paintbrush could do the painting, while someone who has some experience with plumbing or electrical issues could pitch in with installing a new faucet or lighting fixture. It’s also great to have an organizer in the group who can make sure supplies are on hand and coordinate schedules. Think about how you want to handle the furnishings, while considering the layout of your home. Individual styles are likely to vary, so it’s probably best to stick with mostly neutral décor, and ensure that any later additions get group approval first. Make a list of the items you need to get your basic set-up established.

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Some things, such as kitchen utensils and dishware, often can be donated from a family’s primary residence. Big-ticket items like sofas and beds might need to be purchased. If shopping is required, approach this with an established budget and a flexible attitude. Jennifer McLaughlin and her friend went on a couple of shopping trips together to choose their sofas, rugs and guest bedding, but notes, “If any of us had extra stuff in our homes, we donated it to the lake house.” Finally, make sure you discuss what will be shared and what will be kept separate. This is especially important if your home will be open to renters. Will you need an “owner’s closet” to store your personal gear, or just share and share alike? The McLaughlins share food pantry staples and co-own a jet ski with their partners, but each family has their own boat. Talk about how to make sure your home is stocked with food staples and paper goods, and work out a system that is fair and agreeable to all parties. As you might have guessed, you’ll want to engage the services of a real estate attorney to draw up a contract that includes all these factors. Even if you handle arrangements informally, it’s wise to have rules to fall back on. A contract will also lay out an exit strategy in the event that one partner is no longer able to continue the arrangement. Ultimately, the key to success with multi-family ownership is communication and consideration. Know your own needs and personality going in, but be open-minded to different styles of management. If you find a like-minded partner and can approach fractional ownership with realistic expectations and a flexible outlook, before long, you might find yourself sipping Prosecco on your very own lakeside dock. 7730 Bruton Smith Blvd Concord, NC (704) 456-7775

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■ IMPROVE Get oRGAnized

Organized Sundries Get Ready to Grab-and-Go to the Lake BY i n g R i d M CCR a RY

Once it’s time to get out on the lake and enjoy the boat or jet ski, or just hang out on the dock, your day might begin like this: You gather a few items and head down to the water. You load all the relatives and the dog on the boat and are ready to head out, right? Then you hear the cry of “Who brought the boat keys?”, followed quickly by “Mom, since you’re going up, will you bring me a towel?” and, “I forgot a bottle of water!” Mom should not have to be the keeper of all things nautical, though at our house this usually seems to be the case. So why not take a few minutes at the beginning of the season to organize all those “lake necessities” and make the rest of the season more enjoyable? 5 0

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Large canvas totes seem to be the lightest, roomiest, and most practical way to tote your must-haves down to the water. Most of us already possess a number of these, but, if not, totes are easy to find. (Several online sites sell large ones for under $35.) If you want a new one for the season, consider monogramming it with “Boat” or “Lake Supplies” so that family members don’t pilfer it for their own personal use! You might want to consider using one tote for “soft goods” such as towels, and another for everything else. Beyond distinctive monogramming, consider different sizes for different tasks. Another option would be a large laundry basket, which provides more structured toting. Now, give some thought to what your family really uses on the water. Even if you apply sunscreen before heading to the water, take some along to reapply after tubing or skiing. Keep more beach towels on hand than you think you need, as these often seem to “walk away.” Also, having extras will allow you to have a load in the dryer yet still have plenty for the next trip out. Roll each towel and stuff in your tote on end, being sure to take extras for wrapping up; it gets breezy on the water. What you need in your tote also depends on how long you plan to be out on the water, but somehow, boating excursions nearly always run longer than anticipated. So bring along a small cooler filled with water bottles, and don’t forget a collapsible bowl for your dog. The sun and breeze on the water dehydrate your pets as well. If you’re planning to stop over at a friend’s dock or at a marina, don’t forget to bring a leash. A hat and sunglasses are a necessity for the captain of the boat, especially for a full day of pulling skiers and tubing teenagers. It’s even nice to have a pair or two of inexpensive sunglasses or a hat tucked in the tote for those who forget theirs. A bag or two of snacks or crunchy veggies are also nice to have for longer jaunts, and especially important if you have small children. And you do have a properly fitting life jacket for each person on the boat, yes? Cell Phones and Other Essentials

Though many of us want to disconnect—literally and figuratively—during time at the lake, a cell phone really is in the “necessity” category when it comes to being on the water. Even the newest water vehicles can have mechanical issues, and you want to be able to reach assistance if trouble occurs. If you haven’t already, put the Tow Boat USA and marina numbers in your contacts now, before you need them. Also, use the “Notes” section of your cell phone to keep a lake supplies list. If you run s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

out of sunscreen while out and about, you can add it to your list immediately. Plastic zip-lock bags are also essential to organized boating. You cannot have too many! Keep a quart zip-lock in your bag just for your cell phone, and stash it in a pocket of your tote or in the glove box of your boat. Another zip-lock bag can be used to safely store the now-required boating licenses for anyone who will be navigating your boat. It can also be a real lifesaver to keep some cash in this same bag. Remember the time you went to gas up the boat and didn’t have your credit card with you? Glove box cash to the rescue! Great action photos can be snapped with your cell phone, of course, but if you have a photographer in your crowd, then bring along the real camera with a zoom lens and store it in a gallon zip-lock bag in your tote. Easy Clean-Up, Restocking

The sun is sinking in the west and you are headed back to the dock after a fun day on the water. Hopefully, you have selected a tote large enough to round up all those damp towels, empty snack bags, and water bottles. Time for a refreshing beverage for Mom and Dad while the kids (of any age) put the towels in the dryer—they really don’t have to be washed with every use! Kids can also recycle any trash from the tote. Make it their job to restock the tote with towels and snacks for the next day’s excursion. Keep a large basket or trunk for storing rolled-up beach towels by the door you use most often to head to the water, and keep your stocked totes nearby. Perhaps you’re taking a day off the water and spending time on your dock. Again, think in terms of only making one trip; for many lake homes, it is quite a hike back up to the house when you forget something! You’ll still need plenty of towels for swimming and sunbathing, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks (or sandwiches if you want to stay out longer), and reading material. If your children are small, have another tote dedicated to their water toys that they can easily grab and bring along. For children a bit older, corral those swimming noodles with a lightweight, colorful bungee for easy transport. You can also run a longer bungee through the armholes of life jackets, an easy fix for cries of “Mom, YOU forgot my life jacket!” Make this the season to work on teaching the children of all ages to bring along their own necessities; Mom shouldn’t always be the pack mule! Now that you are all stocked up and organized for summer on the water, get ready, get set, and go have fun! 51

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S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o m e 2 0 1 5

DEALING WITH A SLOPE

Slippery

ReSolVe YouR lot’S uniQue CHAllenGeS

BY L au R eL F ei n M a n

Dealing with a unique terrain doesn’t have to feel like treading on a slippery slope. Landscape designers can help you find creative solutions to overcome almost any problem that exists on your lot. Sloping terrain, drainage and runoff problems, climate conditions and privacy concerns are just a few of the typical challenges around the lake that can affect the layout and plant selections for your yard’s landscape. First, determine your lawn’s priorities. Do you need to protect a sloping lawn from erosion during every thunderstorm, or do you need to block out gusty winds? These are two of the most common problems around the lake. A landscape designer is qualified to offer troubleshooting advice specific for any of these unique site challenges. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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Dealing with a Sloping Terrain

Hillside homes provide fantastic panoramic views—but they can also present some of the most challenging terrain to landscape. Undoubtedly, you want to protect your views, for yourself and your neighbors. One common way to deal with a sloping lawn is to install a series of terraces by carefully cutting into the slope of the lawn— gently leveling the grade and shoring up the sides with retaining walls engineered to protect the slope and provide erosion control. Any time you cut into a slope, you compromise its integrity; therefore, the less aggressive you are about it, the better. For this reason, it’s best to create more, narrower steps in your terrace design than fewer, steeper ones. Mark Maslow of Southern Landscape Group says, “It is important to carefully plan terrace construction at Smith Mountain Lake because the space that’s available for construction can be limited, in some cases, due to the Shoreline Management Plan’s prohibition on excavation, terraces and retaining walls.” The purpose of the Shoreline Management Plan is to provide guidelines and regulations for shoreline development at the lake—protecting and enhancing its resources so it can be enjoyed for many generations to come. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which regulates utilities nationwide, updated the plan with a set of new stipulations about what homeowners can and can’t do along the shoreline of Smith Mountain Lake in January of last year. Maslow says the top priority, even above aesthetics, when designing a terrace should be to create a suitable route for water runoff. He says that a meandering path and terrace may be the 5 4

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best option for your lot’s unique terrain, since erosion occurs when water flows too swiftly over a steep gradient. A meandering path will slow the rate of the water flow, allowing it to zigzag across the landscape on its way down to the lake. Construction provisions such as those outlined in the Shoreline Management Plan are put in place to protect the lake, and if you plan accordingly, you can design terrace walls that both comply with the rules and suit your aesthetic needs. In the case of designing terraces, it’s important to work with a landscaping professional to explore your options and make the right plan for your lot’s particular terrain. Hillside Paths and Walkways

When the only access to the house from the water is directly up a slope, it can pose a daunting challenge for visitors. To ensure that people can easily and safely find their way up a slope, it is important to install a paved path. Paved steps that traverse the hillside will not only provide access, but add visual interest as it breaks up the slope, making it appear less imposing. Jay Reed of Seven Oaks Landscape-Hardscape says that on hillsides and sloping lots, concrete pavers are a practical and versatile choice for walkways, for reasons of both aesthetics and safety. He explains, “Concrete pavers come in so many different shapes, colors and textures—you can create a truly custom look to complement your home.” Reed says that concrete pavers are easy to clean and that doing so won’t damage the product. “Concrete can withstand wintertime freeze and thaw conditions, and exposure to lots of sun and water. That makes it an ideal choice at the lake,” 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 5

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If your yard has only a gentle slope, you may not need any drastic measures at all. A slight slope can be corrected with minimal grading and planting grass. Once established, the roots of the grass will work to stabilize the soil and hold it in place. However, keep in mind that it is more difficult to mow a lawn on a slope versus a lawn on flat ground. Freegrowing, unmowed ornamental grasses and groundcover plants might be a good choice, since they can also help prevent surface erosion by binding the surface tightly and covering it with dense foliage. The Ups and Downs of Hillside Irrigation

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For those with a grass-covered hillside lot, Chris Templeton of CLC, Incorporated says you should use the slope to your advantage to keep your lawn healthy. Templeton says that most turf prefers extended watering times, applied less frequently. He says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This watering tactic is deeply penetrating and creates deep root structures. Roots have to work harder and grow deeper to get their water.â&#x20AC;?

Plants and shrubs are natural protectors of soil, slowing the speed of water runoff and reducing surface scouring on your lawn. Landscaping your lawn with a combination of spreading plants and deeply rooted shrubs will help your lawn attain its best chance for underground slope stability and protect it from runoff problems. An irrigation system on a hillside requires a different setup than what you might have on a flat lot. On a flat lot, you’d have evenly spaced sprinkler heads to get even coverage; but Templeton explains, “To get the best water distribution on a hilly lot, the bulk of your sprinkler heads should be high-volume, rotor sprinkler heads placed along the upper contour of the hillside.” He says that as these high-volume sprinkler heads distribute water, some will naturally work its way down the slope and help water other parts of the lawn along its way. On the low end of the hill, Templeton recommends low-volume sprinkler heads with check valves, so you don’t end up with a soggy marsh at the bottom of your hill. Templeton explains that check valves prevent any water remaining in the pipes after the irrigation system has been shut off from draining out, thus reducing the chance of erosion on the landscape at the bottom of the slope. Because many slopes are planted with groundcover (instead of turf), Templeton says that drip irrigation is also a good option for hilly lots because it offers slow, controlled-release watering, which helps eliminate runoff and encourages healthy root growth. Drainage Problems

Rainfall can really set drainage problems in gear. After heavy downpours, poorly drained sites can become flooded and increase the potential for mudslides or damage to your home and garden from erosion. You or your landscape designer may want to dig a test hole to evaluate how fast your soil drains. To do this, dig a hole about two feet deep and as wide. Fill it to the top with water. If it drains away within an hour, your drainage is excellent. If it takes 12 hours to drain, there may be a problem. If it takes more than 24 hours to drain, then a serious problem could affect the root zone of trees and shrubs. Plants and shrubs are natural protectors of soil, slowing the speed of water runoff and reducing surface scouring on your lawn. Landscaping your lawn with a combination of spreading plants and deeply rooted shrubs will help your lawn attain its best chance for underground slope stability and protect it from runoff problems. Why? Plants cover the ground with low foliage, diffusing raindrops and protecting the surface soil from a deluge. When plant roots spread, they protect large areas of your lawn by binding the surface soil. When shrubs root down into the subsoil, they anchor not just themselves, but the surrounding subsurface soil, too. Screening Out Wind, Adding Privacy

If wind is a chronic problem at your house, you can create windbreaks to protect specific outdoor living spaces and make them more comfortable. A windbreak is a fence or wall that blocks the wind—it can be all natural or a manmade structure. A hedgerow made of shrubs is a great way to protect a patio or deck, helping keep the grill aflame and your hair from being tousled into a tangled mess. 56

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Planting a short, dense hedge around your outdoor entertaining spaces can be an effective windbreak. Patio or deck dwellers will still be able to sit in the protected area and gaze over the top of the barrier to see the view. Regular shearing can help control the height of your windbreak; however, it’s probably best to begin by selecting shrubs by their dimensions so there’ll be no need for aggressive pruning. In the past, homeowners planted hedges made from one species, but designers are now moving toward using a more diverse combination of different types of shrubs. This way, if a disease were to strike one variety, there will be other plants remaining to maintain the integrity of the screen. Choose shrubs for compatibility, foliage density, longevity, adaptation to local climate, and overall pest and disease resistance. Maslow calls windbreaks and hedgerows a form of “buffer landscaping” and says that buffer landscaping helps preserve the cleanliness of the lake while simultaneously preserving the integrity of a hillside landscape. He explains, “When landscaping a hillside lot at the lake, plants are great allies when it comes to erosion control.” Maslow says that some lakeside buffer landscaping favorites include maiden grass, Virginia sweetspire, viburnum, the inkberry holly, and flowering shrubs like clethra and fothergilla. These native plants are hardy, drought tolerant and minimize erosion control on slopes.

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Maslow says that it is always important to reference the Shoreline Management Plan’s list of acceptable plants before installing new landscaping, but that any of these natives should perform very well at the lake. If your neighbor is mowing his lawn while you’re trying to relax in the hammock, privatizing your yard might be a top priority for you. A good landscaping plan will bring privacy to your lawn without making you feel fenced in and isolated from nature. Jay Reed says that evergreens should be the anchor plants in any living fence. He suggests, “Nellie Stephens holly is an evergreen that has a red fruit and a saw-tooth shaped leaf. They are hardy and can be sheared and shaped. You’ll want to plant them in a group, but in a staggered formation—so they don’t look like a stiff line of soldiers on your lawn.” Reed suggests planting knockout roses, azaleas, spirea or hydrangea along with the holly to soften the overall look of the hedgerow and add bursts of color and other interesting textures to the windbreak or privacy screen. There are other ways to increase the privacy of your yard, like adding a wooden fence, stone wall or lattice screen. Your property conditions, desired level of privacy, local building codes and personal taste will dictate which method you select. When privatizing your yard, be considerate of your neighbors. Avoid blocking desirable views from their property, and consider how trees or a privacy screen will impact their enjoyment of their outdoor spaces, too. 5 8

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Sun Exposure

In the good old summertime, shade is necessary for outdoor living and entertaining. Where a landscape is fully exposed to the west, the cumulative heat of the setting sun can be a challenge. Here, all but the most rugged plants wilt under the strain. Choosing sun-adapted plants or using shade structures is essential to enjoying outdoor life in the hot zone. Chris Templeton says he’s had success with several plants on hillside lots at Smith Mountain Lake. “For very sunny areas, purple coneflower works well, as does candy tuft, which is a low growing shrub that gives nice color. I also really like blue fescue. It’s a vibrant blue color, that’s not commonly seen.” He also recommends creeping phlox, columbine, salvia (also known as “Russian sage”) and coreopsis, which he describes as billowy and short with vibrant, daisy-like tiny yellow flowers. Templeton says that in shady areas, or those that receive part sun/part shade, Lenten rose, false spirea (also known as astilbe) and mondo grass are all great options. His favorite variety of mondo grass is called “black lilyturf” which he says looks similar to liriope, in shades of black with purple blooms. Templeton says it offers a unique look and can be a great accent plant or bordering plant.

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Your home should be your sanctuary where you can escape from the outside world. Addressing all the problems in your landscape will help you create that well-balanced and inviting space that brings you a worry-free peace of mind.

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â&#x2013; GARDEN ContAineR GARdenS

Perk Up Your Pier CONTAINER GARDENING AT THE LAKE

BY n o e L L e M i L a M

One of the best and easiest ways to liven up your landscaping, particularly in a lakeside setting, is with a container garden. Container gardens bring color to a porch, entryway, patio or pier, and give you the opportunity to try a variety of plantings. For vacation homes, containers can be more manageable than a fullscale, in-ground garden, as many residents would prefer relaxing over weeding. However, since we are talking about a lakeside setting, it is especially important to plan before you go wild with desire at the nursery. Lakeside gardens are especially susceptible to stress and drought from the blazing sun that is amplified by waterfront locations, not to mention the fact that many plantings will sometimes need to go for days or even a week without care, since not every resident is lucky enough to spend every summer day enjoying the lake. Should these constraints keep you from enjoying the versatility of fresh flowers, twining vines, even fresh herbs or vegetables that your own container gardens can supply? Of course not! It simply means that you will need to choose both your plants AND containers carefully, and to make a plan for caring for your container gardens that is realistic to the way you work, live, and play at the lake. 6 0

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The Perfect Pot

So, you’d like a matching set of urns flanking your front steps? A salad garden growing within reach of your kitchen on the back porch? A splash of green at the end of the pier by the Adirondack chairs? There are many choices for containers ranging from clay, plastic, concrete, fiberglass and wood. There are advantages to each, but for a lakeside setting, where the sun can be intense and unforgiving, you need to give the material you choose a little more thought. Clay and untreated wood pots are often recommended for their natural look, and also because they offer more protection to the plants they contain. Though porous (water can evaporate through the walls of the pot), they also tend to keep the soil at a more regulated temperature than their plastic or fiberglass counterparts, decreasing the stress on the plants. On the flip side, clay pots can be broken with rough handling (or freezing temperatures if you leave your container out year-round) and wood is susceptible to rot and decomposition. Weigh the pros and cons to decide what’s best for you. Another consideration for the containers themselves: Go big. At the garden center, ask about the root systems of the plants you hope to grow, and purchase containers that will accommodate the roots of mature plants. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Tomato plants, for example, require two feet of depth, but zinnia need only a few inches. Where draught conditions are likely to be an issue (think waterfront sizzle), bigger may be better, as they will store more water and nutrients that your plants will need. Add an inch or so of gravel (or Styrofoam packing “popcorn” which works beautifully and is much lighter) to the bottom of your container for drainage, and then fill with a mixture of ¾ parts potting mix (not potting soil, which is too dense, or garden soil, which in our area contains too much clay) and ¼ part compost. Garden Variety

Now comes the fun part—choosing your plants. This age-old formula never goes out of style: a thriller, a spiller and a filler. Loosely translated, your “thriller” is your focal point (think bright color and height). A plant that drapes or cascades over the side of the container is your spiller, and a plant that fills in the empty spaces is your filler. Keep in mind that container plantings should be planted more densely than in-ground gardens, so you may want to include several plants in each category. You may choose to group your plants by type or color. Some ideas are an allwhite garden, or all pastel, or all vibrant.

If you want to enjoy colorful, showy blooms all summer, with minimal fuss, opt for annuals; favorites are geraniums, sweet potato vine, impatiens and salvia. If you plan to leave your containers out for the winter and want plants that will come back the following year, look into perennials (lavender, delphinium, hosta, fern) or even shrubs (boxwood or blueberry). Some gardeners prefer to mix in some practical herbs, such as basil, sage or cilantro, to have a ready supply of fresh herbs, while others use container gardens to supply fresh salad greens or tomatoes and other edibles. A favorite of many young gardeners: the “pizza garden,” stocked with basil, oregano, tomatoes and bell pepper. The possibilities are endless! Regardless of the “thriller, spiller, filler” you choose, set yourself up for success by choosing plants that: ■ Are zone appropriate (Southwestern Virginia is USDA Zone 7) ■ Have sun requirements that match your site (full sun, partial sun, or shade) ■ Have similar water requirements ■ Are draught hardy (they will tolerate some drying out in excessive summer heat) ■ Are compact, dwarf, or “patio” varieties when available. 61

Container Garden Care

Once your container garden is set up, do all you can to preserve its beauty, which can be more challenging in waterfront locations. Because the sun’s rays are magnified by the surrounding water, your number-one priority is making sure your plants get enough water. When possible, water in the morning to help your plants get through the heat of the day. Avoid, as much as possible, watering the foliage; use a hose or watering can that enables you to deliver the water directly to the soil. Water on foliage usually evaporates before the plant can even use it. Also, foliage that stays wet because of too much watering, too much rain, or being packed too densely without enough air circulation, is asking for fungus or rot to set in. For most plants, simply keep the water coming until you start to see runoff from the drainage hole, indicating that your container is saturated. Most plants in a lakeside setting, especially those in full sun, will need water every day, or every other day. If you plan to be away, make arrangements for someone to care for your plants, or consider “self-watering” containers (dual-chambered containers with an added reservoir for water), drip irrigation systems, or other watering “systems” such as “The Plant Nanny” or other self-watering probes that connect to a water source. A thick layer of mulch around the base of your plants will also help them retain moisture. 6 2

Though sufficient water is by far the most important factor in the success of your container garden, there are other things you can do to help your plants stay vigorous and vibrant: ■ Feed them. Use a good liquid fertilizer twice a month. ■ Give them support. Larger plants, or ones with upward growth (your “thriller”), will often need the support of a trellis or stake as they grow. ■ Deadhead often. Remove spent blooms, or pinch back leggy branches. This encourages growth and more abundant flowering. ■ Be vigilant watching for insect infestation or fungus, and treat early. Skip the tilling and weeding, and enjoy a beautifully contained garden right at your doorstep. Container gardening is a fun and relatively carefree way to enjoy a little extra color in your lakeside paradise.

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PIATT RESIDENCE

LASETER RESIDENCE

Fun

FINDING

HALE RESIDENCE

AND FITTING IN

Retirees make the lake their new hometown A large number of residents at the lake were once vacationers who decided to move here permanently. Its pleasant climate and central location to several highquality healthcare facilities make it an ideal place to live. But make no mistake—most retirees at Smith Mountain Lake lead extremely active lifestyles, ripe with fun and adventure. They work hard and play hard, tirelessly volunteering for local charitable organizations like the Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour, jumping waves in their “Crusty Boarders” wakeboarding club and having jam sessions with their steel drum band, “The Parrot Pan Band.” SCAN THIS PAGE TO SEE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF THESE HOMES s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Here are three couples who have each found a unique way to put their personal stamp on their new forever-homes at the lake. These folks know how to embrace the community, find the fun and make new friends—effectively turning the lake into their new hometown. 63

A Personal Paradise They’re Willing to Share

Anneliese and Bill Piatt often say, “The best part of our house has nothing to do with the house. It’s the view.” And what a view it is: looking out over Smith Mountain Lake toward the V-shaped ravine in Smith Mountain where the dam that formed the lake is located. Forested steep slopes, idyllic coves, wildlife and an incredible sunrise over the mountain are all seen front and center from the Piatts’ property. Despite their modesty, the house has a dizzying array of interesting items acquired on worldly trips and from living in Africa. No decorator added a piece of art here or an artifact there; the décor is all of their own choosing. After college, Bill—originally from Jackson, Mississippi— joined the Peace Corps and was sent to Togo in French-speaking West Africa where he met Anneliese, who was working as a nurse in the Leprosy Control Program of the German Development Service. Bill first built bridges and schools, but later became an associate director in Togo, and finally country director of the Peace Corps in Togo. Treasures from Africa are well represented in their collections from abroad. A large hanging African batik in the hall is over 35 years old; an array of Togolese pots once stored liquids for drinking; Togo farmers’ hats, dance masks and gongs hang on the walls. There are tables from Ghana with village scenes intricately carved from local wood; even the furniture is made of teak from Togo and is joined without nails. A carving of a peasant pulling a cart and a wooden ship are mementos from Madagascar where the couple spent a month visiting their son Fritz, who, following in the footsteps of his adventuresome parents, was teaching English there with the Peace Corps. 64

There are also displays of pots from Nicaragua, hand-painted plates from Slovakia, a wooden puppet from Prague, a stitched piece that looks like a painting from China, Indian and Chinese rugs, and German items from Anneliese’s homeland: a Black Forest cuckoo clock, many paintings done by her father, and a doll whose hair was grown by Anneliese herself, a gift from her sister. In addition to its interesting décor, the house itself is unique: it was designed as not only the Piatts’ retirement home but also as a one-suite bed and breakfast. This second-floor suite has its own entrance and encompasses a large bedroom with a kingsized bed, vaulted wooden ceilings, three walls of windows, a tiled bathroom and a separate spacious sitting area with a kingsized pull-out bed. Described by the Piatts as a European B&B, Sans Souci (meaning “carefree” in French) can accommodate up to four guests, and includes the proprietors’ elaborate German breakfast that guests can enjoy in the large B&B dining room, at the kitchen bar, or best of all, outside on the covered deck with the beautiful mountain view spread before them. In operation for just four years, the B&B has had an average occupancy of 85-90 nights a year, despite the blackout dates the Piatts save for visits by family and friends. “We also planned that, should we need a live-in caregiver in the future, that person could occupy the guest suite, and it would cease to be a B&B,” says Anneliese. Planning ahead, they also made sure that the home’s hallways and doors are handicap-accessible. The Piatts also provide Sans Souci guests full use of the outdoor facilities: the large outdoor patio, a sandy beach, and a dock for relaxing on the lake. Guests also benefit from the S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

couple’s knowledge of and passion for the lake community. Bill, not incidentally, is chairing the Steering Committee for the upcoming 50th Anniversary of the filling of Smith Mountain Lake in 2016. The couple insists that running a bed and breakfast isn’t a chore for them. Anneliese says, “We enjoy our guests. These people come from Northern Virginia and as far as Texas or California. We are enriched by our contact with them.” The house, designed by architect Craig Balzer, seems to blend right in with nature. Constructed by builder Ken Brodin, the home has the look of a contemporary European chalet. A large peaked window in the great room faces the lake and the mountain. The kitchen is decidedly European—no massive American-style island here—but instead a small, convenient galley kitchen. One side is a bar, and the other is loaded with super-efficient German appliances, including a cooktop that boils water in 60 seconds. The Piatts can enjoy one-level living since the master suite is located on the main floor. Because the house is built on a slope, there is an additional finished area downstairs on the “lake level,” where sliding-glass doors allow direct access to the lake. Here is a game room, office, bathroom and more guest bedrooms to accommodate visits by children and grandchildren. An important aspect of a lake house is the outdoor area, and the Piatts have taken advantage of theirs in an exceptional way. Leafy trees protect the home from summer’s hot sun, and in the winter allow the sun’s warmth to stream in. There is a beautiful spacious stone patio with a welcoming fire pit and a hot tub area. The dock is home to their Mastercraft ski/wakeboard/surf boat and to a sizeable sailboat. As with many lakeside docks, theirs includes a bar, and is adorned with a collection of amusing

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“vanity” license plates that they’ve owned. The Piatts have also incorporated clever hideaway storage for their two paddle boards and kayaks. Situated in clear deep water, the dock even sports a springy diving board. Near the front of the house is the garden, which includes five raised beds for growing tomatoes, herbs, carrots, beans, peas, blueberries and grapes, as well as lots of zinnias that Anneliese displays in the B&B and throughout the house. Gardening in rural Virginia can be a continual battle between the gardener and the critters who naturally live here, but Anneliese has won the war. Her beds are raised not only for gardening ease but also because they are lined underneath with “hardware cloth”, which keeps moles and voles from burrowing in. Netting keeps out deer and birds. The outdoor area is also adorned with art. The Piatts proudly point out “Smithy,” their own artistic metal version of the dragon that was a character in a recent movie about the lake. This sculpture was created by John Wilson of the Wilson-Hughes Gallery in Roanoke. Other Wilson metal sculptures on the property include a colorful outdoor octagon that rotates in the summer breeze and a floor-standing candelabra that graces the B&B dining room. On past trips to Germany to visit Anneliese’s relatives, the Piatts noticed an abundance of solar panels on houses, garages and even barns, so they decided to include solar panels on their roof. These heat the domestic hot water in the summer, and in the winter they power the radiant floor heating. The heating system allows for seven separately-controlled heating zones. “When it’s just the two of us, we can economize by only heating the rooms we’re using, and when guests come, we heat the additional rooms,” Bill explains. “Comfortably padding around on warm floors in bare or stocking feet on chilly days is a wonderful luxury.” In summer, two whole-house fans enhance air circulation so that air conditioning is rarely needed. “Being so well shaded from the afternoon sun, all our living spaces, including the porch and patio, stay quite comfortable,” says Anneliese. The Piatts’ B&B trade has grown quickly as delighted guests rave about the location, accommodations and hospitality to their friends. No doubt high on the list of “must sees” they relate is the view of Smith Mountain, the dam that formed it, and the 5,000 acres of adjoining wildlife-preserve shoreline visible from the comfortable lounges on the Piatts’ ample dock. It’s a slice of paradise that must be experienced to be fully appreciated. “Smith Mountain Lake is often referred to as ‘The Jewel of the Blue Ridge’,” says Bill. “We are truly blessed to make our home here, and we enjoy sharing it with others.” — BY M eg a n Ja n S e n p h ot o g r a p hy by kg T h i e n e m a n n 6 6

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Setting Down Roots With Style

Moving into a new home is exciting, but requires an adjustment period—not just for the homeowners, but for their home furnishings! As Carla and Jim Laseter learned, there are tricks you can employ to ease that transition and help you settle in to your new home. Carla and Jim retired to Smith Mountain Lake, after having spent a lifetime and two successful careers in public relations and advertising in Charlotte, North Carolina. Carla explains that they came to Smith Mountain Lake for the first time for a family wedding four years ago and they fell in love with the lake. She says, “At that time, we had a little vacation spot down in Charleston, but we were so taken with the lake, we decided to sell our place there and buy here.” Carla and Jim purchased a part-time residence near Union Hall and spent many weekends 6 8

becoming familiar with the lake area. Carla says, “After many, many discussions between Jim and myself, we decided to take the plunge and move here full time.” “Jim was doing some sailing with the Blackwater Yacht Club and met several friends. Everyone kept mentioning the Waverly neighborhood,” Carla adds. “Our realtor, Kim Thomas, was also president of the Waverly Home Owners Association and became a great cheerleader for the neighborhood. Kim helped us find the perfect house.” Though the Laseters’ home in Charlotte was a more traditional style, their furnishings have fit nicely into new surroundings in their more contemporary-themed home at the lake. She explains, “We have an eclectic style, with a mix of contemporary pieces and family antiques.” Carla says learning how to arrange your furniture after a move takes time;

you have to live in a place for a while to get a feel for it and know how to make it both comfortable and functional. Carla and Jim spent a lot of time rearranging furniture, getting rid of pieces that no longer worked, and purchasing a few new items that might work better in the new space. The house, built by Jeff Tester of JTC Homes, was only about five years old when the Laseters bought it, so Jim says it was in terrific shape, structurally. Since taking ownership, they’ve done several projects, indoors and out, to help put their personal stamp on their new home and ease their belongings into their new setting. Inside the three bedroom, two-and-ahalf bath home, Carla and Jim made two substantial updates. Everything they need for their day-to-day living is on the first floor, from the master suite to the kitchen and laundry room—they say that’s where S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

they spend the majority of their time. So, to define and highlight their entertaining spaces in the semi-open floor plan, they changed several of the arched openings on the main floor, adding architectural detail to create more visual interest throughout the area. Jim says, “It’s much more airy now, yet still clearly defined.” The star of the upstairs living space is an upscale, gourmet kitchen. Carla says, “It has a huge round island—we use it for everything!” In order to accommodate casual dining, the island has four leather counter chairs on one side and a prep sink on the other. The sink side of the island faces a handsome six-burner gas cooktop. A screened-in porch with a gas grill and hood is bumped out to the side of the kitchen and used as an additional dining area. The Laseters’ other big indoor construction project was adding a traditional mantel with a granite hearth and two bookshelves in the living room. DeNeal’s Cabinets designed and built the mantel and bookshelves, as well as a handsome custom bar in the large downstairs den and some bathroom cabinets for the previous owners. Carla says this new fireplace surround, reminiscent of the one in their former home in Charlotte, is a key aspect, because it adds a strong traditional element to anchor their furnishings in this new, more contemporary setting. Another important thing they did to help their furniture settle in at the lake was to have many interior areas in the home repainted in the same color scheme they had in Charlotte. She says it’s a Benjamin Moore color called Camouflage—a neutral green with gray undertones that goes with everything. Carla says, “I also think that a good part of making a home has to do with surrounding yourself with things you love. When you do, they’ll follow you wherever you go.” Carla says such treasures should take center stage and become a focal point. “When you find a way to integrate them in the design, you’ll see how quickly the space gains personality and warmth.” One such example can be seen in the framed silk Japanese kimono hanging as the focal point in the dining room. It is over 100 years old and once belonged to Jim’s grandmother, who lived for a few years in the Philippines. Now, it’s a dramatic piece of artwork in a contemporary frame. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

“Over the years, we’ve collected art and objects that remind us of the places we’ve been and our families,” says Carla. “We’re so fortunate that Jim’s mother loved antiques, which have fit right in with the rest of our furnishings.” Carla says they like to watch TV and movies in the downstairs den, where they have their custom built-in bar, a lounge area, plus two bedrooms and a full bathroom. Here, interior designer Kris Willard encouraged them to create a conversation area, anchored by a rug and four cozy blue and white club chairs. The Laseters also made some changes to the exterior front of the house to reflect their personal style. They added more stonework to the entrance, new lighting, and landscaping, which helped draw attention to that side of the house. Jim, who enjoys gardening, says he worked with Fiddlehead Landscape Design in Roanoke to draw up a plan for additional landscaping in the front. “We purchased a mature Japanese maple from Pine Ridge Nursery in Salem to create a focal point,” he explains. “Then we added azaleas and other shrubbery to fill in the area.” As a finishing touch to the updates they made at the home’s entryway, Carla says they carried out a neighbor’s suggestion to repaint the front door a shade of teal. “We love the way it draws your eye to the front door from the street,” she says. Like many people on Smith Mountain Lake, the Laseters consider their boathouse an extension of their home. Jim says, “We had Cook’s Siding and Window in Salem install an 18-foot translucent screen on the dock that cuts the heat by at least 10 degrees on the hottest summer days, and protects us from the sun. Now we can enjoy sitting out on the dock in the afternoons and evenings, one of our favorite things to do.” Jim and Carla say that while they love the updates they’ve made to their new home, the very best thing they’ve done to settle in at the lake is making new friends. Carla says, “Everyone who lives at the lake has chosen to be here—you want to be here. We love our neighbors and have made fast friends!” — BY L au R e L F e i n M a n p h ot o g r a p hy b y kg T h i e n e m a n n 7 0

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Creative Homeowners are Masters of Diversion

A sense of fun and creativity goes a long way when you own a home—just ask Jerry and Ferne Hale, who began setting down permanent roots at the lake back in 2000, when they bought a lot after 15 years of renting vacation homes as frequent summertime visitors. The vantage point from the water, provided by daily boat rides around the lake, gave them a unique perspective as they contemplated ideas for their home, which they’ve named “Chateau Neuf.” Ferne, a retired French teacher, says it loosely translates from French to mean “Our New House.” That sentiment explains how the Hales approached their home’s design and customized it especially for themselves. Jerry says, “When you live on a lake, everybody’s got a different perspective. Establishing your point of view is all about orientations and finding solutions to work with your lot.” The French Chateau design prompted a solution to the steep lot’s water runoff problem. The Hales devised a route to divert rainwater away from their home as it rushes down the steep slope toward the lake: they built a moat! The moat is fully incorporated into the design of the home, which also features stone turrets, a courtyard and even a (non-operational) drawbridge that crosses the moat to the front door. Inside the home, the Hales continue to play on the castle theme. The front doorway enters the home’s largest turret—a large circular room from which the wings of the home branch out. A life-sized suit of armor greets you in the turret’s foyer, 7 2

under a massive antique iron chandelier that came from a real castle in France. The red oak circular stairway was built in Wisconsin and shipped in one piece, and all the doors that lead to other parts of the home were made of reclaimed wood and dressed in hand-forged iron hardware to lend to their look of antiquity. Fanning out from the foyer are the dining room and a large lake-facing living room that’s divided into two spaces by a centrally located, dual-sided fireplace. One side of this large room is decorated in a more formal manner than the other. Jerry’s career with DuPont took their family to the Pacific Rim, where they lived in Australia and visited Bali, New Zealand and Japan. During their time away, they collected many beautiful, exotic antiques, which are now displayed throughout their home. Some of these treasures were given to them as gifts, a testament to the friendships they made throughout their journeys. In the dining room are Chinese porcelains, beautifully hand-painted screens from Hong Kong, and an antique Japanese sword chest and a tea chest. The porcelain depiction of Mount Fuji on the wall was a gift from their son-in-law’s parents, who live in Japan. The formal side of the living room is recessed a few steps down from the rest of the main level of the home, adding to the dramatic flair of its furnishings. On this side is a beautifully detailed chess set, a chair featuring bullhorn details, a writing desk inlaid with mother of pearl, and a hand-carved Balinese statue. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

smlhomemaga zine .com

Jerry explains that several thoughtful details went into designing the dual-sided fireplace, which serves as a room divider for the large, open entertaining space. For instance, on the formal side where the floor is recessed, the hearth was installed at a comfortable sofa height so that guests may also use that surface for seating. On the other side of the fireplace, where the décor is less formal and geared to television viewing, the raised hearth is topped with flagstone. The television is hidden behind rustic, hand-crafted chestnut wood doors. Virtually every room in the Hales’ home tells a story. The home is decorated with collectibles from their many adventures and whimsical touches of Ferne’s creativity expressed through hand-painted murals and other decorative painting techniques, including a “tent” on the ceiling in the master bedroom reminiscent of one seen at Napoleon’s Chateau de Malmaison in Paris. Jerry says the decks and the dock at Chateau Neuf are an extension of the home and provide an abundance of outdoor dining and entertaining space. The decks feature glass railings, so the view of the lake is unobstructed. Trained, flowering mandevilla vines cascade over the edges of the decks and provide a flamboyant burst of color. The dock, featuring a tropical-themed bar surrounded by potted palms, geraniums and mandevilla, is the frequent site of music parties, where friends can join a jam session of instruments ranging from banjo and guitar, to steel drums and the flute. Chateau Neuf was built for entertaining by a couple who embraces creativity and self-expression. There’s not another one like it anywhere! — BY L au R e L F e i n M a n p h ot o g r a p hy by kg T h i e n e m a n n 74

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■ DESIGN Fine ARt

Fine Art Finds Let Lake-Inspired Art Set Your Scene BY Ch R iS T i n e S To d da R d p h ot o g r a p hy by kg T hi e n e m a nn

Aesthetic tastes are personal, and often secretly shaped by our subconscious. But any collector can intentionally decide to invest in original art and determine what sort of tone to set for a room. While the specifics of local residents’ taste may differ, one thing unites us all: our affection for the beautiful Smith Mountain Lake. And both two- and three-dimensional pieces have the potential to communicate that love. “People are attracted to the natural beauty of the lake,” says Pam Bryant, current owner of The Little Gallery in Bridgewater Plaza. “It’s the reason they came here. And they want art that reflects that.” s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

The Little Gallery features a collection of works by more than 200 artists and has served the region’s fine art needs since 1988. Offering pottery, jewelry, stained glass, paintings and more, the shop’s charming hoard reflects the eclectic taste of the greater community’s homeowners, from full-timers to semi-annual vacationers. As an American Society of Interior Decorators industry partner, The Little Gallery also provides knowledgeable art consultation for residential and commercial locations. Locals may pay homage to the lake by choosing any number of related subjects, from lakescapes to nearby landscapes to nature art, all of which Bryant describes as “soothing and healing and uplifting.” The Little Gallery represents several artists who specialize in figurative lake and landscape art well-suited to homes in the region, such as Greg Osterhaus, Ed Hatch and Tim Pfeiffer. Among these masters of figurativism is David Heath, an artist represented by The Little Gallery. Having built a respected international career depicting the scenes from Blue Ridge Mountains and coastal Virginia and North Carolina, Heath studied 19th-century American landscape painting before 7 6

finessing his own style. His ethereal interpretations of Mother Nature are sought after by American, European and Asian collectors and have earned numerous accolades. Thanks to the United States Art in Embassies program, Heath’s paintings have journeyed abroad to the United Arab Emirates and Senegal. Closer to home, his paintings have been recognized by the Lynchburg Museum, the Central Virginia Chapter of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Roanoke Museum of Fine Arts (now the Taubman Museum of Fine Art), among others. Heath now makes his home in Smith Mountain Lake—what he calls “the culmination of a lifelong dream”—and has lived here for 18 years. As an artist, Heath has strong opinions about art and home decorating, stating that private collections should bring owners happiness. “The visual experience of the lake is one which constantly inspires me and brings joy and fulfillment in my life,” says Heath. “I would think that most people choose to live here for similar reasons and most art is chosen on the basis of what a person values or loves.” S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

A Hidden Gem at Smith Mtn. Lake

Original Art Local & Regional Artists Pottery Glass Jewelry ASID Industry Partner s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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Prepare for the

Road Ahead

Westlake Area 800-721-8218 Smith Mountain Lake

He also urges collectors to opt for original art. “The atmosphere, depth and texture of an original work are vital elements necessary to the experience of true art appreciation,” says Heath. Take, for instance, the raku of Little Gallery’s Dave Ovenshire or Charlotte Munning. These handcrafted ceramics in the Japanese tradition are uniquely multidimensional and incomparable to department store ceramics. Bryant believes that original works, unlike prints or production pieces, are endowed with an aura because they were birthed out of the artist’s personal mood and inspiration. This aura imbues the collector’s home. “Original art enhances the room and lifts the mood, or creates the room’s mood and energy,” says Bryant. She also mentions that purchasing original art by living individuals supports their quest to be professional, full-time artists. Over time, original art increases in value, and has the potential to become a family heirloom that lifts the spirits of multiple generations. One of Bryant’s top pro tips is to choose a piece of art first and to then design the rest of the room around it. (With threedimensional works, such as Brian Arthur’s bronze dogs or Michael Alfano’s faux bronze sculptures, “around” will have to be interpreted more literally.) Heath agrees, saying, “It seems that most often in decorating, the other elements of design, such as paint colors, furniture and textiles, are chosen first, limiting the choices of artwork to that which best complements the overall scheme. As an artist, my preference would be that the art would be of equal importance to the overall design.”

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S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

Bryant advises art collectors to consider wall space when decorating, noting that windows abound at lake homes. “It’s very important to determine how much space you have available in order to search for the right pieces at the right size,” she says. According to Bryant, many designers recommend that artwork fill two-thirds to three-fourths of a wall. To maximize the impact of contemporary art—especially colorful or mixed media pieces, such as pieces by Little Gallery artists Portia and Barbara Burlingame—go bigger. This advice also goes for sculptures. And when it comes to the hanging process, one that is so easily botched? Center the work at eye level and make sure it’s at least six to 12 inches above any furniture. Then sit back and admire your exquisite bounty. Bryant encourages potential collectors to ask lots of questions when shopping for art. “Whatever mood or look you’re trying to create, the art gallery should be helpful and friendly,” she says. “You should never be concerned about not knowing art or asking questions. A gallery is there to help you learn art, to learn about the artists and their credentials, and find the right pieces that speak to you.”

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■ LIVE CRAFt BeeRS

Great Mates

PAiRinG BeeR And Food FoR SuMMeR dininG

BY Lu CY Co o k

For the past 20 years, I’ve experimented with food and wine pairings, and found some pretty interesting combinations. Like lots of people, I had never thought too hard about food and beer pairings—at least not far beyond beer and sausages! Beer and food pairing is just like wine and food pairing. Generally, the goal is that the beer and food complement each other, and the combination of the two is something greater than the two things separately. Jonathan Brunnelson, the owner of Brew Knows, a beer and wine store in downtown Moneta that opened in January, lends his expertise on the subject. “Beer pairing is fun, and truly trying any style with any food is okay,” he says. But to go about beer and food pairing systematically, first think about the biggest flavor in the dish you’re trying to match. Then think about what flavor may complement it. The three most basic flavors of beer are sweetness (from barley), bitterness (from hops) and bread (from yeast). Of course, it’s much more complicated than that, because hops can taste earthy, malty, herbal or citrusy, the barley is sometimes roasted or even smoked, and other flavors may be added in, like fruit or tea! Sound complicated? We made a chart (at right) to simplify some of these flavors and styles, but if you are still confused, the best way to decipher your options is to do some tasting yourself. Host a beer and food pairing at your house and experiment yourself. Make a few dishes from the chart and buy a few different styles of cheese, and offer a wide range of beers. Try different combinations, and debate why certain things go together better than others. You’ll find that like everything else, there is no definitive answer, just your own preference. But that’s what makes trying and comparing fun. We’ve included a few recipes along with beers chosen by Brunnelson (thank you, Jonathan!). Use this as a start for some summer fun! 8 0

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Korean Ribs (each rack serves four) Pair with a pilsner (Try Chukker from Old Bust Head, Vint Hill, Virginia)

My family loves this sauce. We end up using it on lots of other things—like brushing it on thick-cut bacon before cooking it in the oven. Chop and use as garnish for salads or soup. The sauce recipe is enough for about three racks of ribs, and will keep for a month in your fridge.

For the ribs:

½ small onion, diced

1 rack St. Louis-style pork ribs

½ cup hoisin sauce

¼ cup fish sauce

½ cup ketchup

¼ cup brown sugar

1 cup soy sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup unseasoned rice wine

1 jalapeno, minced

½ cup leftover coffee

Transfer the ribs to a sheet pan with sides, and bake at 400 degrees for about two hours. (Recipe can be completed ahead to this point.)

2 tablespoons oyster sauce For the sauce: ½ cup honey ½ cup brown sugar 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 jalapenos, minced 1 inch chunk of fresh ginger, minced

Use a knife to loosen the edge of the heavy silverskin on the bony side of the ribs. Using a paper towel, grasp the corner of the silverskin and peel it away from the whole piece. Place the ribs in a large glass dish. Mix the remaining ingredients and slather over the ribs. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for 4-8 hours.

To make the sauce, combine all ingredients in a medium heavy-bottom saucepan. Cook until the volume is reduced by half, about 20-30 minutes. Let cool slightly. Puree until smooth with a blender or immersion blender. When the ribs have cooked, finish them quickly on a hot grill (or under the broiler), by brushing with sauce. Be careful not to let the sauce burn. Serve additional sauce on the side.

BEER

FLAVOR

GOES WITH

Ale

Moderate tang, toasty, spicy aroma

Burgers (especially with cheddar cheese), pizza

lager

Smooth, slightly tangy, clean flavor

lighter foods, seafood, shellfish, sushi, vegetables, curries

Pilsner

Simple with light grain and hops and a clean finish

Chicken, salads, Asian food, salmon

Porter

Roasted flavor with nutty, toasty characteristics

Roasted or smoked meats, barbecue, bacon, chili, meat stews

Stout

dry, ry, intense, with roasted coffee and chocolate notes

Hearty food, roasted, smoked or barbecued meats, desserts

Hefeweizen

Crisp, milk, light, sometimes citrusy

lighter ighter foods, salad, seafood, shellfish

Bock

Caramel, coffee and toasted malt

Spicy foods, sausage, lamb

lambic

dry, light, fruity, sometimes tart

Creamy or buttery dishes, pastries

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

Soft Shell Crabs with Succotash (Serves four)

For lemon dill butter:

Pair with a Hefeweizen/wheat Beer (Try The Love from Starr Hill, Charlottesville, Virginia)

1 stick butter Finely grated zest of a half of a lemon Juice of a lemon 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Put the crabs in a large bowl and cover with milk. Set aside to soak. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add the vegetables and cook until cooked, stirring often, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.

Soft shells are available from May through the middle of the summer, and are one of my favorite seasonal treats. Served on a bed of vegetables, this is a light dish, but fit for company! For crabs: 8 soft shell crabs, cleaned 2 cups milk 1 ½ cups corn meal ½ cup canola oil For succotash: 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup each: fresh or frozen corn, chopped seeded tomato, frozen lima beans, frozen field peas, and diced sweet onion 8 2

In a small saucepan, melt butter. Continue to cook for about three minutes, watching carefully, until it begins to turn brown. Add lemon zest, juice and dill, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large sauté pan over high heat. Put the corn meal in a wide flat dish. Season with salt and pepper. Drain the crabs, pierce their claws with a knife (to reduce splatter) and dredge in cornmeal, shaking off the excess. Fry the crabs in the hot oil, about 8 minutes total. Remove to a platter and tent with foil to keep warm. Wipe out the sauté pan and repeat until all the crabs have been cooked. Reheat succotash if necessary. Sprinkle with parsley and plate the mixture. Place crabs on top of vegetables and drizzle with lemon dill butter. Serve hot. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

Grilled Vegetable Salad with Anchovy Vinaigrette (serves 4 as a side, 2 as a main course) Pair with a German-style lager (Try Gold Leaf from Devils Backbone, Lexington, Virginia)

I used to flinch at anchovies, but the flavor of them adds such a nice depth to this dressing. I’m a convert! 2 tablespoons anchovy paste 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ½ cup good quality olive oil 1 zucchini 1 yellow squash 1 small eggplant 1 red pepper Olive oil

In this moment . . .

4 generous cups mesclun mix ¼ cup shaved parmesan cheese Combine first four ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well, season with salt and pepper and set aside. Slice zucchini, squash and eggplant lengthwise into about 1/3-inch slices. Cut the core out of the pepper and cut into four large pieces. Remove ribs and seeds. Brush vegetables lightly with olive oil and salt and pepper. Cook on a grill or stovetop grill pan about two minutes each side, until limp and cooked. Let cool slightly and cut into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, toss the greens with about half of the vinaigrette. Top with vegetables; drizzle with remaining dressing and sprinkle with cheese. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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■ LIVE SMl CHARitY HoMe touR

Behind the Scenes At the Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour

BY R aCh eL B e a n L a n d

Smith Mountain Lake offers plenty of outdoor recreation. There’s boating and waterskiing, fishing and sunbathing. But when Jeanne Wagoner and her late husband Joe moved to the lake in 1991 to build their dream house, Wagoner noticed something right away. The recreational pursuit her neighbors seemed to enjoy the most was studying the lake houses that dotted the shoreline of the 32-square-mile reservoir. “There had been a lot of development on the Bedford side but not on the Franklin side,” says Wagoner. As she watched older lake homes in Bedford County get facelifts and new ones go up in Franklin County, she paid attention to the talk out on the lake. “When we’d take our boat out, it always seemed like I was meeting people who were interested in the houses.” Wagoner was on the board of the Blue Ridge Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in Charlottesville back then. The non-profit had asked if Wagoner would host a fundraiser out at the lake, and when she proposed a small home tour—accessible by both car and boat—she immediately wondered if she’d bitten off more than she could chew. 8 4

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

She formed an exploratory committee made up of her husband and a few neighbors, but it wasn’t until a stranger dropped off a three-ring binder that Wagoner began to feel like she might be able to pull the event off. “This woman just said, ‘I heard you were going to do a home tour,’ and she handed me this big black notebook. It was from a historic home tour that had been running successfully for 30 or 35 years. The notebook told me just about everything I needed to know—except maybe how to get boats from one dock to another.” The Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour has accrued 25 such binders since then, and claims the distinction of being the only home tour in the country accessible by boat. This fall, on Columbus Day weekend, Wagoner will watch as her “small” home tour celebrates its 25th anniversary. Today, more than 1,500 people buy tickets each year to tour eight homes scattered along the lake’s 500 miles of shoreline. To date, the event has raised $3.8 million for charity, showcased nearly 200 homes, and supported more than 30 charities in the region. Nineteen years ago, the tour’s board made the decision to expand their reach beyond the MS Society, allocating their proceeds—which total more than $100,000 per year—to a rotating list of eight local charities. Charities apply to participate, and if selected, commit to hosting one of the tour’s eight houses. Duties include but aren’t limited to staffing the house with volunteers during the three-day tour and helping solicit sponsors. “The charities we support help our neighbors who are in need of food, shelter, healthcare and other vital services,” says Denise Tuttle, the tour’s executive chair. STEP, Inc. is a community action agency that serves Franklin and Patrick counties and operates programs such as HeadStart and Meals on Wheels. The agency was recently selected to be a charity participant on the 2015 tour and has been on the tour twice before—once in 2012 and again in 2014. In 2014, STEP recruited 135 volunteers to staff Bob and Pat Wetherel’s home in the Contentment Island neighborhood. “[The tour] does so much for us,” says Cindy Treadway, who sits on STEP’s board of directors. In addition to the money the event raises, Treadway credits the tour with helping non-profits raise their profile in the community. “You become a resource that [tour participants] can pass along to people they may cross paths with in the future. It makes a person feel good to know how to help someone else.” s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

In total, it takes more than 1,200 volunteers to make the Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour happen. There are committees for everything—recruiting homeowners, selecting charities and soliciting sponsors. And then there are the jobs people don’t always think about. To get through the weekend, the tour needs hundreds of parking attendants, dock workers and hostesses. Hostesses are stationed in each room and prepped to answer questions about furnishings and décor. “Sometimes people want to know about the color of the paint on the wall, or they’ll want to know who did the decorating. But sometimes they’ll ask about a particular item—a piece of sculpture or a photo on the wall,” says Smith Mountain Lake resident Carla Laseter, the publicity chair for this year’s tour. “If you’re placing people in each room and you’ve got a 9,000-square foot home, there are quite a lot of rooms.” When Laseter moved to the lake in 2013, she and husband Jim were looking for ways to get involved in their new community. Volunteering for the home tour turned out to be a great way to meet their neighbors, and it wasn’t long before they’d agreed to put their own home, on a cove off the Blackwater River, on the tour. Participation in the tour is a family affair; Carla’s husband Jim is chairing sponsorship solicitations this year. Homes on the tour can’t be on the market, and it’s up to homeowners to decide whether they’d like to remain in their home while it’s being toured. Some prefer to be absent, but most choose to stay, chatting with visitors and answering questions. Almost everyone finds other accommodations at night, opting to stay with friends or at nearby hotels rather than risk mussing a perfectly primped home. Homeowners who put their homes on the tour aren’t reimbursed for any expenses they incur prepping for the event, though most use the tour as an excuse to spruce up their landscaping or finish interior projects they’ve been putting off. “We tell people that if their home is selected, it’s deemed ready for the tour as is,” says Laseter, who admits that she and her husband have enjoyed getting their home ready to show. “We’ve found that most of the projects we took on in preparation for the tour were things we wanted to do anyway.” This year’s Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour will take place Oct. 9-11, 2015. Tickets to the rain-or-shine event cost $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Learn more at smlcharityhometour.com. 85

Qualified professionals with the knowledge to help with that home improvement project or building your dream home.

Westlake Towne Center

540-721-3453

www.smithmountainbuilding.com

Monday – Friday 7:00 am - 5:00 pm · Saturday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm

SatiSfying EvEry

Budget & Lifestyle

Offering kitchen and bath cabinetry as well as a wide selection of granite, quartz, solid surface and laminate tops. We recently expanded our services by offering customized closet organizing systems from California Closets. Onsite AKBD certified professional designers to help with any new construction or remodeling project. Delivery and installation available. Westlake Towne Center • 66 Builders Pride Drive a division of 8 6

540.719.0128

www.CabinetGallerySML.com

Serving Roanoke & New River Valley, Smith Mountain Lake, Central & SW VirginiaS m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

■ IMPROVE CounteRtoPS

TOP IT OFF let new countertops put on a show in the kitchen or bathroom

BY M i T z i B i B L e

Sometimes you only need to make one update to a room to change its tune. If you’re looking for a way to bring a new look to one of the most-used rooms in your home, but you’re not ready for a full-blown renovation, turn the spotlight on your counters. With many surface varieties available today, all with different qualities, changing out your countertops can be both an aesthetic and practical move. It is certainly a wise choice for owners of vacation rentals or summer homes, or for those preparing to put their house on the market. “It is always a good investment to replace countertops,” says Kevin Fields, an AKBD-certified designer with The Cabinet Gallery in Westlake Towne Center in Hardy. “If your cabinets are in good shape, replacing a countertop can really increase property value. Some houses in high-end neighborhoods are almost expected to have some type of updated stone countertop.” People choose countertops equally for their durability—whether they can resist stains and scratches—and their beauty. Here, we provide a rundown of surface types and important considerations for planning this project.

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

M ARB le

d e K to n

GR An i t e

Rockin’ It

The natural beauty of the Virginia countryside, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Smith Mountain Lake is what draws people to this area—and often keeps them here. Local homeowners show this appreciation for nature by bringing the beauty, or at least a semblance of it, inside. Countertops made of natural or partial rock or stone, with their random, one-of-a-kind patterns, are the most popular. Experts agree that granite and quartz top the list. “They are durable materials that give you a nice, high-end look,” Fields says. “The different patterns and finishes give you plenty of options to select that can fit any home’s décor.” Dan DeNeal, owner of DeNeal’s Cabinets in Moneta, says the cabinet and countertop industry is now offering more than ever. “Fabrication techniques are always improving; seams nowadays are better than they used to be 20 years ago, and the selections have increased dramatically for natural stone and quartz,” he says. Granite, which is quarried all over the world, comes in many different colors. It is very hard and will resist scratches with proper care. It is also stain resistant, if sealed periodically. “The beauty of granite is the main reason it is so popular today,” Fields says. “With the many patterns and veins, it is truly a beautiful natural product.” According to DeNeal, granite is quickly becoming the top choice for his customers. “It’s durable; it’s hard to beat it,” he says. “Buy it once, and it will last a lifetime.” Countertops made of quartz may be even better if you are worried about stains, since quartz is considered to be nonporous. Quartz countertops are generally made up of engineered 8 8

material composed of 85 to 95 percent crushed quartz and resin binders. It is scratch resistant and will also tolerate heat. Many people choose quartz because it does not need regular sealing like other natural stones, so it is virtually maintenance free. The patterns and colors are consistent, making it a great choice for larger and wider countertops in the kitchen. Marble is the stone most chosen for its attractiveness, with pronounced veins and often-bold colors that say “upscale” and “luxurious.” But sometimes the finer things require more TLC. Marble is a softer material that can be scratched by common kitchen utensils. You should always use cutting boards when cooking. Fields says marble can be sealed to reduce the vulnerability to acidic attack and stains, but it’s not a guarantee. “Marble is a beautiful material that requires protective measures to ensure it will last and look great,” he says. DeNeal said this is an area “where quartz is taking over,” because it can give you the higher-end look of marble, and with durability. While natural may be the way to go, there are less pricey alternatives that still do well in simulating that great natural look. La La Laminate and More

Usually half the price of stone countertops, laminate countertops (made of particle board or plywood with a printed image laminated on the top) have still come a long way, Fields says. The material, such as the brand name Formica, can now be ordered in large sections with convincing patterns of natural granite and marble, and in many different colors. Laminate can also be ordered with profiled edges on all sides, instead of a traditional S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

l A M i nAt e

Co Ri An

flat edge. Laminate does not resist scratches or heat, so using cutting boards and hotpads is imperative to preserve the surface. Solid surface countertops, made generally of cast plastics or acrylics, are also a lower-budget choice for the kitchen and bath. Although it can scratch and is not heat resistant, solid surface is the only option that allows a seamless design. A sink can be made of the same material so an entire counter space can be integrated. Color options run the spectrum, from deep red to bright blue or black, and this type is also available in many stone patterns. One of the popular brand names is Corian. Solid surface countertops are slightly more expensive than laminate, ranging from $40-$70 per square foot to install. A new surface material has come on the scene in recent years and is growing in popularity. Dekton, made by Cosentino, a leader in architectural and design surfaces, is a mixture of inorganic materials manufactured by a high-tech process that recreates the metamorphic change (high temperatures and pressure for thousands of years) that natural stone undergoes. It can be used indoors or outdoors, and is durable enough that it can be used for flooring. Fields has begun introducing Dekton in area homes. “It is an ultra-compact surface with superior technical characteristics and performance better than any surfacing product in the market today,” he says. “It is very scratch- and stain-resistant and can tolerate temperature changes.” Its durability is its hallmark, as it can also be used as a cutting surface. (Ads for the product feature tennis star Rafa Nadal cracking nuts on a Dekton counter by batting them down with a frying pan.) This new material comes in a variety of colors and won’t fade. According to Fields, installation will cost you up to $100 per square foot.

SPECTRUM STONE DESIGNS Locally Owned in Lynchburg

434.993.0888 s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

www.spectrumstonedesigns.com 89

“Remodeling Specialist” Since 1984 400 Scruggs Rd., Suite 600 Moneta, VA 24121

540-721-1752 · www.DeNealsCabinets.com

Cindy W. Bryant Independent Beauty Consultant Call/Text: 434.841.4490 Email: IneedsomeMaryKay@gmail.com Shop 24/7: www.YourMaryKayLady.com

9 0

Bu tCH e R B loCK

Using a material with a lot of color and pattern for the island can contrast well with solid countertops in the rest of the room. The Design Beat

Kitchen and bathroom designers will help you choose the best countertop to match the style of your room. “When it comes to matching countertops with décor, it is primarily based on color of the countertop. You want to choose a material that gives you contrast or will tie into the rest of the room,” Fields says. It is not uncommon to use multiple cabinet and countertop colors in many designs within the same room. Fields says he especially sees this in kitchens with islands, where the island may be a different color or a different material altogether. Popular island materials are butcher block (natural hardwood with a varnish finish that is great for a chopping surface), granite and marble. Using a material with a lot of color and pattern for the island can contrast well with solid countertops in the rest of the room. DeNeal suggests, “It warms things up, especially in kitchens where you may have white cabinets and white quartz countertops, it gives the room visual interest to do dark wood on top of the island.” Some people also use stainless steel, as it is waterproof and very easy to clean. “In the end it is up to your personal style,” Fields says. “It is very important to pick a material and color that you love and can see enjoying in the future.” So now that you have some options to consider from these area experts, be your kitchen or bathroom’s best fan by bringing a new countertop on stage to make its debut. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS, INSTALLATION TIPS Consider these factors, especially if you choose a different material for your new countertops: thickneSS: Traditionally most people are replacing

the less expensive laminate countertops with new materials. Laminate is normally 1 ½ inches thick, but new stone materials can vary from 1 ⅛ inch to 1 ¼ inch, so the height of your backsplash will come into play. A designer can help you determine how to extend your backsplash to cover up old paint or caulk lines on the wall. And if you have cabinetry that rests on the countertop, you may need to use molding to cover the gap between your cabinets and your new countertops. SUPPort: If switching to a stone countertop from the lighter laminate, you will need to choose an underthe-counter support, especially if you are switching out a bartop or island that overhangs your cabinetry. A designer will help you find supports that match your current countertop (there are many brackets, ranging from plain to more ornate) or utilize steel supports, which can be installed horizontally, hidden directly underneath the countertop.

Source: Kevin Fields, The Cabinet Gallery

Granite countertops made simple • 13 choices for 1 price -- upgraded types of stone available • Templates, Installation, all cut outs and standard edges included • No up-charges • Visit one of our showrooms or contact us today to schedule a consultation • Virginia’s premier natural stone authority • Come see us for all of your natural stone, masonry, and hardscaping needs • Serving Virginia and North Carolina since 2002

VA - 19730 Virgil H Goode Hwy, Rocky Mount | 540-483-2737 NC - 8605 Triad Drive, Greensboro | 336-996-4918

Towers Shopping Center - Colonial Avenue - Roanoke - 540.344.7398 s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

www.marshallstone.com 91

■ LIVE BluetootH SPeAKeRS

carry a

e n u T

TIPS FOR MUSIC ON THE GO BY d ei R d R e S eR i o

“You’ve come a long way, baby!” If you remember that catch phrase, you probably remember the advent of portable music with the transistor radio. We’ve come a long way from the days of being tied to the room in which the music device resided—radio, tape deck or turntable. With Bluetooth technology, we can now listen to music wherever we want, whether it’s on the porch, on the dock, or on a mountaintop. From the portable transistor radios of the 60s, which originally only played AM radio, hand-held radios “grew up” into the huge boom boxes of the 70s, then shrank again with the portable cassette and CD players of the 80s. Around the turn of the century, MP3 players allowed us to put our playlists into one device, instead of carrying around cassettes or CDs. Now you can access all your music from your smartphone, which is designed to play music, watch movies and videos, and play games (in addition to making phone calls). Phones are capable of holding mass quantities of music, but you can also access the Internet via Wi-Fi or data service and play your own music or listen to Internet “radio.” And you can tie your phone via Bluetooth to a speaker system in your car or your home or yet another portable device—the Bluetooth speaker. 9 2

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

Despite the capital “B” in Bluetooth, it is not a brand, but a specific kind of wireless technology. Originally created to facilitate wireless data transmission, Bluetooth was invented by Ericsson engineers in 1994. Many of the earliest Bluetooth devices included wireless keyboards, mouses and headphones. Then came Bluetooth watches, TVs, speakers and more. As far as music sources, the sky’s the limit. Want to listen to your personal music collection? You can upload your library to cloud storage with companies like Amazon Cloud Player, Apple iCloud, or Google Play Music. Once your collection is uploaded, you can listen to it from anywhere at any time—on your phone, your tablet or your desktop computer. Another option is streaming radio services such as Pandora, Spotify or iTunes Radio. But the built-in speakers on phones aren’t meant for concert-hall sound. Good quality sound has meant being tethered to headphones or via cables to a speaker set. Until Bluetooth came along. Think of Bluetooth as the “cord” that connects these devices. Once you get a set of Bluetooth speakers, remember there are some limitations. Bluetooth technology is limited by distance between the speakers and the source—phone, tablet, or laptop (it’s like trying to take your portable home phone out for a walk)— and battery life of either the speakers or the source. So if you want to take your phone and speakers down to the dock to have a party, make sure your phone and speakers are well charged beforehand. You’ll only be limited by your music library (or food and drink supplies). Designers have let their imaginations run wild when designing Bluetooth speakers. Many come in a variety of colors, sizes and sound quality. There are standard, cube-shaped speakers, round speakers, towers, and outdoor waterproof speakers. There are small, portable Bluetooth speakers with clips to secure them to anything from a backpack to a kayak to prevent them from going for a swim. For the party animal, there are speakers with dancing fountains (water jets enclosed in plastic casing that looks something like a lava lamp) and speakers with color-changing LED lights. For the person on the go, there are Bluetooth speakers with a suitcase-type handle that can also be used as a public-address system or guitar amp. Prices for Bluetooth speakers run the gamut, to say the least. You can spend a few dollars for a single, simple portable unit (think small speaker to cart back and forth from the dock), a few hundred for a system that’s more substantial, or a few thousand for a system installed in your home (wires hidden in walls, speakers flushmounted in the ceiling). Figure out where, when and how you want to be able to listen to music, and how much you want to spend, to determine which system is right for you. To use a Bluetooth speaker, you must first turn on the speaker, then turn on the Bluetooth function of your phone, tablet, or laptop, which will then “search” for the speaker. You then select it from a list (just like when you “search” for Wi-Fi), and you’re good to go! Something to keep in mind when buying Bluetooth speakers: You will get a better quality sound out of your speakers if they have the same, or more recent, Bluetooth version as your device (1.2, 2.0, 3.0, or 4.0, the most recent). It’s like the difference between Windows 95 and Windows 8. Also keep in mind that if you access your stored music or a streaming radio service via the Internet that you either use available Wi-Fi, or have unlimited data on your phone. You don’t want the shock of a large phone bill to dampen the mood. So set up your Bluetooth speakers, sit back, put your feet up, and enjoy the sound. s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

SCAN THIS PAGE TO SEE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF THIS HOME

Finally

HOME BY J eS S i e T h o M p S o n p h ot o g r a p hy by M a r k L T h o m p so n

9 4

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

Sara and Mark Chadason went about building their dream home the way they live their lives: looking at it as one big adventure. The fact that it’s at Smith Mountain Lake is really a fluke. They thought they’d build at the beach. Living in Northern Virginia, they hadn’t heard of Smith Mountain Lake until Mark saw a flyer for a triathlon that intrigued him. He missed the registration deadline, but decided to drive down to the area anyway. The lake, he said, was so clean and clear that it made an impression. Then there was a tiny ad on the bulletin board at Mark’s office advertising a guesthouse rental at Smith Mountain Lake. Intrigued, they contacted the owner and planned their vacation. Once at the lake, they were hooked. They called on real estate agent Teresa Criner (whom Sara and Mark agree was “wonderful”) to help them find their dream home or lot. One guesthouse resonated with them, but with just two bedrooms, it was too small, and it wasn’t even officially for sale. After four years of looking without success, they turned their attention to other projects. And then one day, out of the blue, the owner of the first place they had stayed called them: Her neighbors were selling a lot of land with 400 feet of waterfront. The Chadasons had one week to figure it out: Was it really where they wanted to be? Could they build a house from four hours away? Could they afford it?

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

“There is a sentence in [Paulo Coelho’s book] ‘The Alchemist’ that says when you want something and put all your energy behind it, ‘the universe conspires to help you.’ That’s what happened,” says Mark. A modest inheritance from Sara’s father’s estate made it possible to act quickly to put a down payment on the land, but the couple said they wrestled—a lot—with the cost of the project. They sold their home outside of Leesburg and moved to a condo. They applied for a construction loan, and once they were approved, asked Criner to find the builder of the guesthouse they had liked so much. They met the builder, Zach Baldridge, at a Panera Bread in Charlottesville to talk about the project. The house plans started on a napkin. “Mark and Sara were great to work with as they had a broad vision, but needed someone to bring it to reality,” says Baldridge, who earned a degree in art from Longwood University and worked as a design engineer before opening his own customhome building business. “Our initial meetings were great brainstorming occasions…I would take each meeting’s comments and mold them into the design. There were changes along the way, so some decisions were done on site, needing to feel the home.” Just siting the house, which ended up being about 4,000 square feet, was challenging. “There were many constraints on the location of this home,” says Baldridge. “I remember agonizing over the angle of the home and what view it would provide.” The Chadasons communicated a lot via email and phone, but “working long distance is not unusual for me,” says Baldridge, who has built roughly 30 custom homes in the area. But some decisions just needed to be dealt with in person. “I let them know when I needed a face-to-face…Mark and Sara would visit 9 6

and review certain options, allowing them to really grasp what a picture couldn’t show,” he says. Ultimately, the Chadasons decided the bedrooms weren’t as important as living spaces. Instead of building a third floor, they opted to make the ground level “a real floor”—and increase the ceiling height to 12 feet, adding to the sense of spaciousness. “Mark’s mantra was ‘Bigger, Taller.’” jokes Sara. “Zach said, ‘If only I’d known that from the beginning, we might not have had so many change orders.’” A Collaborative Process

In the end, the home took about a year to build. The Chadasons put more than 25,000 miles on Sara’s car that year; she and Mark wanted to be involved with their dream house project and know first-hand that things were going smoothly. “It truly was just a labor of love,” she says. Once in the area, they weren’t just hanging out and getting in the way of work. They drove to Blue Ridge Tile to find just the right materials for their showers; to Ferguson Bath, Lighting & Kitchen Gallery for plumbing fixtures; to Probuild for cabinetry; and to Timberlake Lighting for lights. The finished product is stunning; the house is an artistic blend of modern lines with rustic farmhouse charm, including some Arts and Crafts details such as prairie-style perimeter windows. The front door opens into the great room. A floating stone wall on the right is anchored with a table, the perfect spot to deposit keys and cell phones. It’s a place to disconnect, literally, and just look. The couple says that visitors rarely see the details in the house first; instead, they look through the floor-to-ceiling, S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

west-facing windows and doors to the lake, transfixed. Because the couple chose glass balusters for the expansive deck just off the great room, the view remains pristine. But there are gorgeous details to take in on the inside as well. The great room’s vaulted 18-foot ceilings are finished in pine that is stained a cedar color; the ceilings continue outside over the deck, again blurring the line between inside and out. “We installed lots of large wood beams, all cut and fitted on site,” says Baldridge. “All the wood really provides a warmth to the home. I am struck by the view each time I visit.” Inside, the focal point in the great room is a floor-to-ceiling rock wall with a wood-burning fireplace. Buttery-soft leather armchairs and a tufted leather couch are arranged atop an Oriental rug for cozy fireside lounging. A bulky, slightly scuffed coffee table invites guests to put their feet up. “Hit or Miss” distressed wide-plank wooden floors run throughout the home, adding another comfortable, rustic touch.

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A second Oriental rug delineates the dining area, which features a round table large enough to seat six comfortably. Here, they come together as a family (their two daughters are 23 and 21) and bond over a home-cooked meal or lively conversations. Behind the dining room is a gourmet kitchen. Sara designed the space herself, including the six-burner cooktop, a refrigerator that’s big enough to hold groceries for a crowd, a wine cooler, a deep farmhouse sink, and a mixture of black and natural wood cabinets. The star of the area, however, is a wide peninsula about 11 feet long, made from a granite slab with flecks of quartz in it. Stools that fit under the countertop allow it to double as a casual eating area. “Many items in a catalog just wouldn’t tie in with the home’s personality,” says Baldridge, “so we made them.” Custom pieces include a wooden horizontal trellis from which pendant lights 10 0

hang to illuminate the bar area, and a barn door, which stands to the left of the counter. “I knew I wanted a barn door,” says Sara. “I just didn’t know where. But Zach knew.” It slides open to reveal a substantial pantry—an important feature because the closest grocery store is at least 20 minutes away. Off the kitchen is Sara’s favorite space: a screened-in porch, outfitted with comfortable chairs and a sofa with outdoor cushions. “Out here, I can hear the water lapping, I can see the dock. It’s like being in a little treehouse.” Also on the first floor is a guestroom with a dedicated bathroom (Sara’s mom is a frequent guest), along with the master bedroom and bathroom. All feature Baldridge’s custom touches. When the Chadasons couldn’t find vanity cabinets they loved, Baldridge made them, along with surrounds for the mirrors. The rough wood is the perfect complement for the copper fixtures and hammered sinks. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

Downstairs Living

Mark and Sara were initially worried their daughters wouldn’t want to come—one lives in New York City, the other in Nashville—but both have made numerous treks with friends in tow, and have claimed the downstairs space as their own. A basement in the traditional sense, another huge wall of windows to the lake makes it feel spacious. The huge family room features a sectional sofa, a large TV, and Mark’s favorite space: the home’s custom-built sauna area. “We have a Polish sauna ritual,” explains Mark, whose family moved to the United States from Poland. “You sit in the sauna for 15 minutes, you come out and do a shot of really good Polish vodka then jump in the lake. Then you do it again, and again, but the last time, you sit in the sauna, then jump in the lake and take the shot when you come back.” Sara just smiles and nods. The sauna space is also a favorite spot for their girls, who often forgo the more traditional bathroom, showering instead in the all-wood stall adjoining the sauna. Because they are so comfortable downstairs, the girls often choose to sleep in the bunkroom (where the beds and ladder were also built by Baldridge). There are additional spaces for storage downstairs, and an office, complete with vaulted ceilings, which make the space feel open, and a window view to the lake. There are always projects—hanging more family photos along one wall, for example—but the work time seems to slip away, and they find themselves enjoying being present in the moment, not worrying about “real life.”

uniquely yours

434-907-3643 www.truecustomva.com www.zachbaldridge.com Lynchburg, VA

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Fine Wood Chairs Authentic in every detail, one piece at a time

Outdoor Spaces

Outside, a hot tub is tucked under the screened-in porch, and around the corner is another, ground-level patio. Southern Landscape Group in Lynchburg oversaw the completion of the outside areas. They graded the site, planted flowering shrubs and grasses, and installed stepping stones down to the dock. Sara says if she has one regret about building, it was not calling in the landscaper earlier, because they may have been able to save a few more trees. Still, the house is flanked on both sides by mature trees that give a sense of privacy. One of the reasons to be at Smith Mountain Lake, say the Chadasons, is the water itself. They enjoy all that the water has to offer, including boating, swimming and stand-up paddle boarding. They researched boats for their dock, and settled on a ski boat, since Mark said the dock was “sort of a floating pontoon.”

18th Century Craftsmanship to last a Lifetime & Beyond

“Finally Home”

The home is simply furnished, the antithesis of fussy. Each item in their house is either functional or has a deeper meaning; the lack of clutter comes from 30 years of Mark serving first in the Marine Corps and then the Foreign Service, and moving the whole family every three years. They married after he learned of an assignment that would send him overseas for three years; they spent their 30-day honeymoon driving through Europe in a Volkswagen with six suitcases, and landed in Nepal. After three years there, it was on to New Delhi when their older daughter was four weeks old. While in Stockholm, their second daughter was born. They next moved to Tunisia, in Northern Africa, and finally to Greece, which was their last overseas tour. While they valued the relationships they made, material things were less important, so sinking so much time, energy and money into “a thing” as large as a custom home was frightening. “I was so scared we would get it done and be sorry we did it,” says Sara. Those fears have been laid to rest; and now, say the couple, as soon as they pull in the driveway, their whole bodies relax, and they realize the dream has turned into a reality. “It was most fun when, at the end, Mark had us over for dinner, toasted that I had built the home he and Sara had dreamed of for more than 20 years,” says Baldridge. “He was very sincere. It hit me then, that all of our brainstorming, conversations and hard work had created an amazing, relaxing oasis for him and his family.” Once they moved in, the Chadasons asked their daughters to help them name their house; the girls suggested “Finally Home.” s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

Windsor Chairs Rockers & Stools Frame Chairs Windsor Settees Mortise & Tenon construction with contoured seats and wood selection customized to each client’s preference. Call today for your custom heirloom! Brad Bowman - 540.420.4472 103

■ DESIGN outdooR FuRnituRe

Take a Seat Outdoor furniture is more comfortable and durable than ever

BY M i T z i B i B L e

Patios no longer have to play host to folding lawn chairs or the heavy wrought-iron bistro ensembles of past generations. They have become an extra living room or dining room, a prime place to relax and entertain—with the added bonus of fresh air. And they can be outfitted with the same attention to style given to interiors. “Everyone today is creating an ‘outdoor room’ that gives you extra square footage,” says Ginnie Vaughan, general manager of National Pools of Roanoke, Inc., which carries a large selection of outdoor furniture. “Creating an outdoor living space with sofas, swivel rockers, end tables, fire pits, rugs, lighting and TVs is very hot right now.” The new outdoor furnishings on the market today, with the ability to withstand the elements and provide just as much comfort as our indoor pieces, are no doubt driving this trend.

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ris Willard, owner of Interiors by Kris in Hardy, says outdoor spaces “have become the largest part of today’s living, especially in resort areas.” People are choosing large dining sets, or a sofa and chairs— and sometimes both, if there is room. Willard says that “motion pieces,” such as swivel rockers and gliders, have become just as popular outside as they are inside. Whether for dining or lounging, outdoor furniture is being manufactured to last through many seasons of wear and tear, even from that pesky guest called bad weather. “Everyone wants something that is low maintenance and long lasting,” Vaughan says, noting that aluminum or cast aluminum is a great option because it will never rust. Teak is always a classic because there is little to no maintenance and it lasts a very long time, she says. Then there are newer “green” options, such as “plastic lumber,” which uses raw materials mostly derived from postconsumer bottle waste, such as milk and detergent bottles. This product requires no waterproofing, painting, staining or similar maintenance when used outdoors. Willard is also a fan of furniture made with wrought aluminum and cast aluminum frames, which is very durable, heavier, and has replaced the old wrought-iron furniture from years ago that would rust quickly. But the most popular material 10 6

in the industry, she says, is synthetic wicker (or all-weather wicker), known to resist rot and mildew. “It’s a big step from Grandmother’s old white wicker that sat on the front porch and had to be painted every year,” Willard says. Another benefit for all-weather wicker, teak and plastic lumber is that these materials do not get hot to the touch when the sun bears down. If you choose aluminum, though, that’s where today’s cushions help out. “Outdoor fabrics have come a long way in the past 10-plus years,” Vaughan says, pointing out that solution-dyed acrylic fabric is used in cushions now. It is colorfast, fade-resistant and easy to clean. While most furniture sets are sold with cushions, Vaughan says she takes a lot of special orders for cushions as well. Many people want their outdoor area to coordinate with either their indoor style or with colors they have already chosen for their outdoor décor, she says. Some simply want to replace their old, cheaper cushions and take advantage of the heavy-duty materials being manufactured today. Talk to any furniture dealer or interior designer and the product that will be mentioned most in terms of outdoor cushions is Sunbrella. “It is taking over the industry and being used by many manufacturers on indoor furnishings because of its durability,” Willard says. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

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Sunbrella fabric is water-resistant. The brand also makes Sunbrella Rain, a completely waterproof version of the legendary upholstery fabric. It is available in solids, stripes, and prints of all hues and designs. Cushions are also getting more comfy. If those sofas, love seats, and large chairs weren’t displayed next to the patio umbrellas and yard décor in the store, you may not even know that they are meant for the outdoors; they look like they could easily belong inside. Vaughan says some of her brands actually carry a cushion that is made for the indoors, but is wrapped with an outdoor fabric. “It gives you the comfort of an indoor cushion. Deep-seating pieces like sofas, swivel rockers, and even recliners are available for outdoors now.” Even though outdoor furniture has come a long way in its durability, Vaughan and Willard say choosing sets from a reputable furniture line is the best way to ensure you are getting a long-lasting product. “As everyone is aware, you can purchase outdoor furnishings just about everywhere, from the grocery store to the gas station; however, there are considerable differences in purchasing quality outdoor furnishings that will last for years,” says Willard. Retailers and interior designers carry top lines like Summer Classics, Lane Venture, Brown Jordan and Kingsley-Bate, to name just a few. Like any investment, proper care will keep your outdoor furniture looking its best. Slipcovers can prove very helpful during the winter. Vaughan recommends a neutral-color cover that is waterproof, yet breathable for the humidity, and machine washable. “I look at outdoor furniture like a new car,” she says. “If you leave it outside all of the time and neglect it by not washing or rinsing it off, it will not keep that new-car look very long. But if you clean it and protect it periodically, then it will look nicer for longer.” S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

DECK OUT THE DOCK Many homeowners at the lake turn their docks into living spaces. Ginnie Vaughan of National Pools recommends purchasing heavier materials for outdoor furniture for this location, such as cast aluminum, wrought iron, steel, and plastic lumber, made from recycled materials. Typical aluminum is lightweight and could blow away easily. Plastic lumber is ideal because if it ends up in the water, it floats. Teak is also a great option because it is heavy and requires low maintenance.

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■ GARDEN HiStoRiC GARden weeK

Chat ham Garden Club �

HOSTS HISTORIC GARDEN DAY Ap r i l 24, 2 015

Each spring, visitors are welcomed to over 250 of Virginia’s most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks during The Garden Club of Virginia’s Historic Garden Week, known as “America’s Largest Open House.” This statewide event provides visitors a unique opportunity to see unforgettable gardens at the peak of Virginia’s springtime color, as well as beautiful houses sparkling with over 2,000 flower arrangements created by Garden Club of Virginia members. Locally, The Chatham Garden Club will host tours of three homes and gardens located in The Water’s Edge community on Friday, April 24. House styles include an Old World farmhouse, a French Country house, and a river plantation house, each with magnificent lake and garden views. The Water’s Edge Country Club, named one of Golf Digest’s five best golf courses in the country, is available as a lunch venue. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit vagardenweek.org. Here, enjoy a first look at the properties featured on the tour.

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The DavenporT house 240 island View drive, Penhook This “Old World farmhouse” on the lake, built in 2010, has a relaxed feeling of age and charm that exudes comfort. Visitors enter the stone façade through pine doors salvaged from the Helm Tobacco Warehouse in Lynchburg. The great room area is warm with light from the ceiling-to-floor lakeside windows and heart pine floors. The same Helm Warehouse pine forms the coffered kitchen, reinforcing the feel of Old World craftsmanship throughout. Artwork collected by the owners in Europe and South America along with works from American artists, antique furniture, English china, and Oriental and Mexican rugs contribute to the Old World ambiance. The lower level houses a European wine cellar with pine doors from the Dan River Mill Cotton Storage House flanked by wooden Czechoslovakian grape-gathering baskets. The fun continues with a shuffleboard table, a bar resting on handmade Mexican tiles with dog paw prints, and a movie theater complete with reclining chairs and popcorn machine. Garden areas including lacecap hydrangea, abelia, viburnum, and sweetbay of magnolia fill the waterfront area leading to the dock and natural beach. Note the stunning view of the lake and the waterside façade of the house with its covered porches and French Country railings. Mr. and Mrs. Ben Davenport Jr., owners

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The Ferguson house 5 lands end Road, Penhook Built in 1996, this large white brick house, accented by white iceberg roses and clematis, resembles a James River plantation that has grown with each generation. Tall magnolias and white crape myrtles line the approach to the Colonial faĂ§ade where pineapple-embossed lintels surmount the mullioned windows flanking the porch. Its situation on a point of land in Smith Mountain Lake provides extraordinary water views from the lawn, verandas and dock. English boxwood surround gardens filled with peonies, hydrangeas, astilbe, hosta, sweetspire and daffodils. A foyer leads into a spacious living room featuring a chalet ceiling over cherry, ash and walnut flooring in a Greek key pattern. A stairwell in the foyer rises to a large loft consisting of four bedrooms that circle an intimate den overlooking the living room. Two of the bedrooms open into nurseries designed and decorated for 11 grandchildren. A coffered-ceiling dining room houses a portrait of two sisters as children. Both sistersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes are a part of the tour. Antiques with family stories, 19th-century samplers, a closet playroom with painted fireplace and furniture, heart pine paneling from a fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lumberyard combine with artwork and beloved toys to reinforce the feel of permanence. Mr. and Mrs. John Ferguson, owners

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The Lee house 15 lands end Road, Penhook This French Country house, built in 1994, offers beautiful lake views from the windows, covered porches, verandas and dock. An equally interesting interior begins in the foyer with an 1875 pastoral oil painting that was a wedding gift for the owner’s grandparents. Artwork—including oil paintings, Limoges boxes, family portraits, and a Chagall lithograph—graces each room. The living room fireplace, surrounded by mosaic tiles, boasts individually painted ancient golfers. Interesting to note in the den is a series of family sketches in pencil drawn by the owner. Hand-painted twin French château beds and a chest in an upstairs bedroom reinforce the French Country theme while delighting grandchildren. An electrified gas lamp that belonged to Todd Lincoln and a brass bed bought by Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. for a Georgia governor highlight other bedrooms. French faïence, Quimper plates, and 1830s French candlesticks in the kitchen are an integral part of the ambiance. A moss-topped stone wall and lined walk leading to the dock feature gardens with Solomon’s seal, hellebore, hosta, jonquils, pachysandra and liriope. Beside the dock is a children’s mini-beach with fire pits for s’mores, small Adirondacks with beach umbrellas, and stone steps leading to the water. Mr. and Mrs. William Lee, owners s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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HOME S M i t H M o u n tA i n l A K e

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Fink’s Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Seven Oaks Landscape Hardscape . . . . . . . 59

Glenda McDaniel, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Smith Mountain Building Supply . . . . . . . . 86

Grand Home Furnishings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . 108

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Bayside Marina & Yacht Club . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Holdren, Eubank & Stanley . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Southern Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Berkshire Hathaway Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Homestead Creamery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Southern Landscape Group, Inc . . . . . . . . .4,5

Bob Riddick Roofing, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Kidd’s Restoration & Cleaning Services . . . 46

Southern Roots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Bowman’s Woodworking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Interiors by kris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Southwest Sunroom & Window Co. . . . . . 108

Bush-Flora Shoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 LinDor Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Spectrum Stone Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Carilion Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Magnolia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

The Cabinet Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Carter’s Cabinet Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Marshall Stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

The Little Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital . . . . . . . 33 Mary Kay (Cindy Bryant). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

The Summit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Cindy Bryant (Mary Kay Cosmetics) . . . . . . 90 M.H. Eades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

The Vinyl Porch Rail Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Closet Storage Organizers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Nadine Blakely, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

True Custom Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

CLC Design/Build Landscape . . . . . . . . . . 116 National Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Turner’s Building, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

CMC Supply, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Member One Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . 30

Vinton Appliance Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Outtasight Window Tinting/Vehicle Wraps 10

Virginia Vein Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

P.A.C. Interiors & Floor Fashions, Inc. . . . . 46

Water Garden Designs by Tharpe Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Custom Structures, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Dabareiner Wealth Management Group . . . 78 Davis Heating & Air Conditioning . . . . . . . 58 Perry Pools and Spas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 DeNeal’s Cabinets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Webster Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Persian Rugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Dodson Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Westminster Canterbury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Plyler Homes & Docks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Everything Billiards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Whitt Carpet One Floor & Home . . . . . . . . 49

F&S Building Innovations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Ronnie Mitchell & Son Landscaping & Lawncare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Fine Wood Chairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Runk & Pratt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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Wisler Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke h o M e 2 0 1 5

engaged IN LIFE

Enjoy Peace of Mind in our Continuing Care Retirement Community The Summit is retirement living at its best. The lakeside garden homes and apartments are completely maintenanceâ&#x20AC;?free, leaving you time to do all the things you have always wanted to â&#x20AC;&#x201D; whether it be traveling, volunteering, or spending time with your family and friends. And you will have the peace of mind knowing that healthcare is here on campus if you need it. The beauty of our 143-acre campus is complete with a 8.5-acre lake, walking trails and a perfect view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Start planning your future at The Summit and be Engaged in Life.

INDEPENDENT LIVING, ASSISTED LIVING, HEALTH & REHAB

Call The Summit today to schedule a tour: 434.582.1500 1400 Enterprise Drive / Lynchburg, VA 24502 / SummitLynchburg.com