2017 Smith Mountain Lake by James River Media

HOME SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

design ✦ improve ✦ garden ✦ live

Enjoy THE VIEW GET OUTSIDE

a day on the dock

LIVING AT THE LAKE

four unique waterfront homes

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS

outdoor lighting preservation planting ANNUAL ISSUE 2017

You don’t have to travel far to find high quality products for your home building or renovation project. At Capps, we combine our commitment to provide reputable brands and expertise from our design professionals to ensure your experience exceeds your expectations. Visit our Design Showroom and let us help you with your next home improvement project.

windows & doors

cabinetry & countertops

flooring & tile

lighting & hardware

Decades of experience designing your dreams. Westlake Corner • smith mountain lake • 540-721-2276 • shopCapps.Com

Surround Yourself with the Extraordinary Finest Quality and Selection of Fine Art and Home Decor

Making memories to last a lifetime ! One of the true pleasures of lakeside living is entertaining and making memories with friends and family. Enjoying good food with great friends while taking in the unbeatable view of the lake is, in a word, priceless. At Southern Landscape Group we specialize in creating amazing outdoor environments at Smith Mountain Lake. In addition, we are experts in Buffer Landscaping and AEP Shoreline Management. With our team of incredibly passionate and talented landscape professionals, your project is guaranteed to be a success. Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it time to take the end of your day on the lake to the next level?

Call us at 434.821.6004 or on the web at www.soscapes.com for a consultation.

Timing is everything. Making award-winning wine takes time. Roger Furrow, owner of Hickory Hill Vineyards in Moneta, is grateful for the gift of time. Five years ago, Roger went into cardiac arrest after a routine stress test at Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center in Moneta. Chad Hoyt, MD, and Laura Bollard, RN, sprang into action, performing CPR to save his life. Within minutes, Centra ONE landed and they were flown to Centra Lynchburg General Hospital where cardiologists discovered three blockages and Roger underwent a triple bypass heart surgery.

Roger Furrow Owner, Hickory Hill Vineyards

The winemaker treasures every day on the family vineyard. Each grape harvested builds upon a craft requiring patience and time. Roger credits his cardiologist, surgeon and nurses for giving him more of the latter.

Offering cardiology services in the Smith Mountain Lake area at: 1039 Mayberry Crossing Drive Suite C, Moneta Providers in Moneta: Chad Hoyt, MD Chris Lewis, MD Tom Meyer, MD Samuel Omotoye, MD Jesse Naples, PA-C To schedule an appointment, call

540.297.7840

Now accepting new patients Pictured above (L to R): Chad Hoyt, MD, Roger Furrow, Laura Bollard, RN

6 StroobantsCardiovascular.com

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FUN RUNS IN THE FAMILY There’s a Sea-Doo watercraft designed for every type of rider. And with the 2017 lineup, that tradition of fun continues. From pulse-pounding performance and top-of-the-line luxury models to playful units and everything in between. Enjoy the comfort and ease of a 2 or 3 seat configuration, and the confidence that comes with our Intelligent Brake and Reverse you’ll maneuver with ease and feel safer than ever.

Since its beginning in 1977, Webster Marine has been a family owned and operated, full-service marine center on beautiful Smith Mountain Lake, VA. Boasting the largest inventory of deck boats, pontoons, and Sea-Doos in Southwest Virginia, Webster Marine offers new and pre-owned boat and Sea-Doo sales, as well as service, parts, accessories and slip rentals. Conveniently located next to Halesford Bridge, stop by and visit us today.

WebsterMarine.com | 540-297-5228 | 800-325-9110 1185 Mills Road | Moneta, Virginia 24121 | Off Route 122, North of Hales Ford Bridge

“Now Serving Non Ethanol Gas 24/7” ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

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THE AREAS LARGEST SELECTION OF OUTDOOR FURNITURE

Are you? WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE READY FOR SPRING.

SEATING GROUPS | DINING SETS BARSTOOLS | FIRE PITS | UMBRELLAS CHAISE LOUNGES & MORE!

Award Winning Pool Builder 3 1 1 2 M e l r o s e Av e . | R o a n o k e , VA 2 4 0 1 7 | 5 4 0 . 3 4 5 . 7 6 6 5 | w w w . n a t i o n a l p o o l s . c o m 8

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Enjoy EvEry day!

Call us today for your personal tour: (540) 777-5602 A Life 1 0 Plan Community • 3804 Brandon Ave SW • Roanoke, Virginia • (540) 777-5602 S m• i t h www.brandonoaks.net M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

OUTSTANDING AGENTS, OUTSTANDING RESULTS.

Jeanette Handy 540-493-4914 handylakegirl@gmail.com

Julia Keep 208-989-8356 juliadkeep@gmail.com

Casey Johnson 540.537.0299

CaseyJohnsonSml@yahoo.com

Tricia Johnson 540.814.3399

TriciaHJohnson@Hotmail.com

Walt Turner 540-493-4469 walt@waltturner.com

sellingthewrightway@yahoo.com

Re/Max Lakefront Realty, Inc. | 800.233.9004 | 540.721.3555

remaxsmithmountainlake.com

CONTENTS Smith Mountain Lake HOME 2017

20 70

111 20

SHOWCASE HOMES

Expanding your options for al fresco feasting

A Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired masterpiece in Park Place

THE KITCHEN IS OPEN BY R O RY R H O D ES

36 THE TYRRELL HOME

BY RYAN TI P PS

Tips for becoming a full-time SML resident

A 1970s lake home is given a beautiful, functional makeover

LIFE AT THE LAKE BY AN D I E G I B S O N

111

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

How to throw a fabulous at-home lake wedding BY LI N D SAY WAG N O N

Cover photo by Michael Patch at the home of Meg & David Head

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HOME Magazine

60 THE NOESNER HOME BY RYAN TI P PS

84 THE HEAD HOME

Remodeled to accommodate stunning views and frequent guests BY AN D I E G I B S O N

102 THE MERRYMAN HOME

An addition transformed this lake retreat from top to bottom BY RYAN TI P PS

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Sm it h Mount a i n L ake H O M E 2017

DESIGN

31 THE GREAT ROOM How to create timeless appeal BY N O E LLE M I LAM

57 PERFORMANCE FABRICS Utilizing beautiful, durable textiles BY R O RY R H O D ES

94 BATHROOM REMODEL Take it from tired to tranquil BY K I M B E R LY J. DALF E R ES

IMPROVE 48 DOCK FUNCTIONALITY Make the most of your boathouse BY J E R RY HALE

82 OUTDOOR SHOWERS Practical and playful at the lake BY K ATH E R I N E F U LG H U M K N O P F

98 SUMMER AILMENTS Be prepared!

BY K I M B E R LY J. DALF E R ES

GARDEN 28 HERB GARDENS A wide range of uses and benefits BY SAR AH C OX

52 OUTDOOR LIGHTING Take your home from dark to dazzling BY C H R I STY R I P P E LL

75 BUFFER LANDSCAPING Planting to protect the lake BY R AY C OX

LIVE 46 EASY APPETIZERS Join the party with our no-fuss ideas BY N O E LLE M I LAM

79 LAKE FITNESS Use SML to get your workout BY JERRY HALE

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THE SUBMARINER The quintessential divers’ watch has embodied the historic ties between Rolex and the underwater world since 1953. It doesn’t just tell time. It tells history.

OYSTER PERPETUAL SUBMARINER DATE

rolex

oyster perpetual and submariner are ® trademarks.

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EDITOR’S note People choose to live at Smith Mountain Lake for a variety of reasons. There’s the low cost of living, slow pace of life and friendly residents. And traffic? With the exception of perhaps Wine Festival weekend, it’s nonexistent. But the most popular reason folks flock here has got to be our region’s abundant natural beauty—and the ability to enjoy it year-round. For many, that means spending as much time as possible outside. Whether it’s on-water activities, games in the yard, meals on the dock or roasting marshmallows around the firepit, being outside makes everything at the lake more enjoyable. That’s why it’s no surprise to see homeowners putting more of a focus on their outdoor living spaces. In this issue, we spotlight a number of ways homeowners are making the most of the great outdoors when it comes to building or remodeling projects. In addition to features on four waterfront homes with amazing outdoor spaces, you’ll find stories on trends in outdoor

Lake Retreat Properties, Inc.

Selling Smith Mountain Lake for over 35 years

6760 WHITE HOUSE ROAD, HUDDLESTON, VA 24104

Lake Retreat Rental Properties, LLC 800-421-6980 • 540-297-6002 Look for our rental brochure in local businesses or contact us to request one.

kitchens and how to add an outdoor shower to your landscape. Other highlights include ideas for making your dock as functional as possible, improving outdoor lighting, the importance of lakeside buffer landscaping and even ways to use the lake to achieve your fitness goals. Homeowners aren’t the only ones taking advantage of SML’s spectacular lake and mountain views. Brides and grooms find it hard to beat the lake as a beautiful backdrop to say “I do.” Smith Mountain Lake native Lindsay Wagnon offers insider tips for those considering an at-home SML wedding. Of course, we’ve got the great indoors covered in this issue, as well. Be sure to check out stories on trends in performance fabrics and bathroom renovations, as well as tips for creating a great room that’s truly functional for you, your family and guests. We hope you find tons of inspiration for home, garden and life in this issue. Thanks for reading! Andie Gibson, Editor

Search all area listings and request showings at

www.lakeretreat.com

email: sales@lakeretreat.com | Personalized, not franchised

Search over 75 lakefront vacation rental homes at

www.lakeretreat.com email: rentals@lakeretreat.com

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HOME SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

2017 ANNUAL EDITION PUBLISHER Julie Pierce EDITOR IN CHIEF Meridith Ingram SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE EDITOR Andie Gibson ART DIRECTOR Edwana Coleman GRAPHIC ARTIST Khristina Helmich

Live life to the fullest in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or the warmth of small town living. Call today to arrange your overnight Staycation* at one of our Life Plan communities. *Certain restrictions may apply.

www.sunnysidecommunities.com

SUNNYSIDE 800.237.2257 Harrisonburg, VA KINGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GRANT 800.462.4649 Martinsville, VA SUMMIT SQUARE 800.586.5499 Waynesboro, VA

LISTED IN THE TOP 500 SOLAR INSTALLERS FOR 3RD YEAR IN A ROW

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ray Cox Sarah Cox Kimberly J. Dalferes Andie Gibson Jerry Hale Katherine Fulghum Knopf Noelle Milam Rory Rhodes Christy Rippel Ryan Tipps Lindsay Wagnon PHOTOGRAPHERS Craig Shaffer Michael Patch Don Petersen KG Thienemann OPERATIONS MANAGER Colleen Miller ADVERTISING SALES Jennifer Bass Janet Lampman Julie Pierce Anne Marie Poore CONTACT

Smith Mountain Lake HOME is published annually by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or email 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 (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2017 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned. As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

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Experience the difference Landscaping is an extension of your home. It’s your vision. With attention to detail, dependable maintenance and a commitment to quality, we strive to meet that vision. You will experience the difference.

Our Experience

“From the initial meeting through project completion we were extremely pleased with both the service and quality of the Seven Oaks team. We highly recommend.” Heather P. Call today to schedule your consultation 540.489.3715 smlhomemaga zine .com 19

Photo: Southern Landscape Group

WHILE THERE ARE A SEEMINGLY ENDLESS ARRAY OF POSSIBILITIES WHERE OUTDOOR KITCHENS ARE CONCERNED, THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO KEEP IN MIND IS THAT THE DESIGN NEEDS TO WORK FOR YOU. 2 0

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let’s step outside OUTDOOR KITCHENS EXPAND POSSIBILITIES FOR MULTI-SEASON ENJOYMENT BY RORY RHODE S

ANY A HAPPY MEMORY HAS BEEN MADE AROUND AN OUTDOOR MEAL. Dear old Dad stationed at his Weber grill, flipping steaks and burgers while friends and family lounge in lawn chairs on the patio, is a classic tableau of simple summer pleasures. You can bet many of Smith Mountain Lake’s earliest residents enjoyed lakeside life in this fashion, and there’s nothing wrong with that! But just as SML has grown and changed over the years and decades, so have our options for al fresco feasts. Never before have there been so many possibilities for cooking and enjoying meals outside—and with so many creature comforts now available for exterior spaces, an outdoor kitchen can be used for much of the year, making it a valuable addition to your home. With all the choices and options, it can be hard to know where to begin and what will work best for your property and way of life. We’ve talked with local experts to get top trends, design ideas and tips to help you maximize your lakeside lifestyle. smlhomemaga zine .com 21

A Photo: CLC, Incorporated

Photo: Southern Landscape Group

2 2

s with so many things homerelated, location is key. Sure, your outdoor kitchen will most likely be somewhere at the rear of your property, but how you intend to use it and where it will sit are by necessity intertwined. Do you want to take advantage of a lovely view? Do you need ease of access to a particular indoor area, or perhaps to the dock? Would you like a covered space or open air? These are just a few questions to consider when it comes to adding an outdoor kitchen. If there’s only one possible location, it may be that its size or layout will dictate how you’ll use it. In any case, it’s a great idea to start by gathering some photos of spaces that appeal to you. Mark Maslow, owner of Southern Landscape Group, likes to start the design process by meeting at clients’ homes to assess their individual situation, and says inspiration photos are helpful in getting a sense of what the homeowners desire. He notes that it’s important to understand what clients are envisioning when they picture an outdoor kitchen. “Many people just want a space to grill, serve food and have a little storage,” Maslow says. “They’re not necessarily thinking of things like a dishwasher or an ice maker.” He asks questions such as: Will the area be used just for cooking, or also for serving? Would you like your cooking area to also have seating? Do you want lake views from the seating or cooking area? Does the space need to be covered? The answers help determine things like potential electrical requirements, as well as less obvious factors like clearances for activities. For example, Maslow says that built-in grills need a minimum of an 18-inch clearance on each side for things like setting serving trays, and if you don’t plan accordingly, you could find yourself boxed in when the design becomes reality. While it sounds like a lot to consider, in many cases the available outdoor space will help dictate its size, layout and function. Once you’ve got the location settled and a basic idea of how you plan to use the space, you can begin to think about materials and features. Ronnie Mitchell, owner of Ronnie Mitchell and Son Landscaping, says that while a grill is the most popular part of an outdoor kitchen and most spaces incorporate one, there are options to consider. If you want a built-in grill instead of freestanding, Mitchell says, “We prefer to use concrete cabinets instead of building the cabinet out of block.” He says it’s a thin concrete cast that makes a sturdy base for the cabinet, which can then have rock facing and be topped with a granite counter. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

RESORT STYLE LIVING IN

YOUR OWN BACKYARD! At GroundScapes, we specialize in creating luxurious outdoor living spaces, that not only increase the value of your home, but allow you to enjoy your investment for years to come. Contact us today to discuss how GroundScapes can transform your backyard into a private paradise.

(540) 33441362

WHAT CAN

WE DO FOR YOU? Expert Consultation & Recommendations Custom & Creative Design Comprehensive & Enjoyable Process Professional & Talented Team Incredible Quality & Craftsmanship

P.O. Box 207 Rocky Mount, VA 24151 info@groundscapes.net www.groundscapes.net

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James Edwards, president of GroundScapes, agrees that grill tops with granite counters are popular, noting that granite is actually well-suited to outdoor use because it seals well, is durable, easy to maintain and has an elegant appeal. He says natural stone and concrete countertops are other good choices, and adds that cabinetry can always be customized to suit a client’s needs, both in terms of materials and budget. “In general, it might include the grill enclosure, a sink and a mini fridge,” Edwards says. “But we will do some ‘all out’ spaces that have the same appliances as a home kitchen.” Maslow says a recent trend he’s noticed are smokers, which barbecue enthusiasts love to use for slow-cooking tender, flavorful meat. Whether electric, propane or charcoal, smokers can be incorporated into your outdoor kitchen either in place of, or in addition to, a traditional grill. He has also installed power burners for clients who like to steam shrimp or have a crawfish boil, and infrared burners that can quickly sear a steak in the style of an upscale steakhouse. However, Maslow says charcoal grills are also popular—proving the old adage that everything old is new again. Mitchell notes that pizza ovens are another fun trend in outdoor kitchens. They come in a variety of styles and finishes—or can be custom made—and homeowners enjoy making authentic wood-fired pizza outdoors for family and friends. Specialty items such as smokers, infrared burners and outdoor pizza ovens are all about allowing home cooks to replicate their favorite food experiences, whether from a roadside Southern barbecue spot or a high-end restaurant. In addition to popular components like the mini fridge, your outdoor kitchen counter can house more custom items such as a prep sink, warming drawer, ice machine, dishwasher or even a kegerator, which is a built-in stainless steel beer dispenser that houses a keg of temperaturecontrolled suds under your cabinet and features a tap just like the local bar. Kegerators often come with removable shelves so the unit can be converted into a mini fridge if desired. When planning all the fun stuff, don’t forget to leave some open counter space. You’ll need room for prep work, serving trays and setting dishes and drinks. Storage for utensils and serving ware is also important to consider so you don’t find yourself repeatedly dashing inside for needed items. Edwards says when designing outdoor cabinetry, amenities can help determine the materials. “If it’s a simple grill enclosure, a cabinet with stone facing on it and stainless steel access doors works well and looks good,” he says. “If the cabinets are going to have a sink and lots of features, we really like to do custom woodwork. We use outdoor wood such as high quality ipe, [a dense and durable South American hardwood] 2 4

Photo: GroundScapes

which gives you look of indoor cabinets and also allows for more cabinet space than stone.” or many modern outdoor kitchen items, electricity will be required, and you might also like some outlets for appliances such as slow cookers or blenders. While newer electrical appliances designed for outdoor use often feature LED lights and lighted controls for nighttime use, you’ll probably also want electrical wiring for general visibility at night. If your outdoor kitchen is going to be under cover, dimmable recessed lighting can provide a gentle wash of illumination, while a chandelier, sconces or task lighting are both helpful and attractive. A significant factor in shaping your outdoor kitchen is whether or not it will be under cover. A covered space will not only provide shade in the warmer months, but also offer some protection for furnishings, appliances, and also for entertainment extras such as TVs and stereo systems. Maslow says an open air cabana or pavilion, finished with stained pine tongue-andgroove ceiling, is an appealing cover for outdoor kitchens and can be wired for lighting, audio, TV and a fan. Ceiling fans are useful for keeping cool in warmer months, for keeping flying pests at bay, and, as Maslow notes, S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

Voted the BEST BUILDER at SML FOUR years in a row.

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#1 General Contractor at the Lake for 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 | MHEades.com Home Design Showroom located at 14114 Booker T. Washington Hwy. Moneta, VA 24121

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Photo: Ronnie Mitchell and Son Landscaping

“Circulation when grilling, with its heat and smoke, is important.” Edwards says it’s possible to have a TV even in an exposed location by installing one that’s specially designed and rated for outdoor use. When space permits, he likes to have an outdoor seating area similar in layout to an indoor living room, in keeping with the philosophy that, “Outdoor living is about bringing the rooms inside your home outside.” Edwards has worked with Sound Decisions in Roanoke to install surroundsound speaker systems that can be controlled by your cell phone, and notes that many outdoor features, including pool lights and pumps, can be managed via cell phone, allowing homeowners to adjust settings even while out of town. During cooler weather, Mitchell says, “A fire pit or fireplace built somewhere in the project makes a nice addition, and most clients want this feature.” Edwards recently completed a double-sided fireplace that allows the homeowners to see

through the fireplace to the lake beyond. Fire pits are affordable alternatives to full outdoor fireplaces, and are natural gathering spots in an open air space. Freestanding patio heaters can provide additional warmth during times when the air is chilly but the fresh air and scenery beckons. While there are a seemingly endless array of possibilities where outdoor kitchens are concerned, the most important thing to keep in mind is that the design needs to work for you. Covered pavilion or open air, simple grilling station or expansive space with cooking, seating and living areas, an outdoor kitchen can take many forms, but its primary purpose is to get you outside enjoying meals in the sunshine or under the stars. We hope there will always be dads grilling on a Weber, but with so many possibilities for today’s outdoor chef, you can create new memories and enjoy life at the lake like never before. ✦

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Specializing In Outdoor Living Areas

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GARDEN herb gardening

SUPERB HERBS B Y S A R A H C OX

hether you have a large landscape, an intimate garden or no garden at all, there’s no reason you can’t grow your own herbs. Herbs are easy to plant and maintain, can be tended indoors or out, and offer a wide range of uses and benefits. In addition to the convenience of having all your favorite flavors at your fingertips for cooking and garnishing, many herbs offer natural health remedies, provide fragrances for homes and bodies, and can repel deer and other pests. Types of Herbs

There are three main categories of herbs: culinary, aromatic and medicinal. Some of the most popular culinary herbs include basil, rosemary, oregano, chives, sage and dill. When cooking you will use, in general, about 1.5 times the amount of fresh herb as you would the dried variety. Adding herbs at the beginning of the cooking process will promote subtle flavors while adding them at the end provides a more robust punch. Basil pairs beautifully with fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes. Dill and seafood is a win-win combination. Rosemary, oregano and marjoram are perfect for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and sage generally sticks around long enough to garnish the Thanksgiving turkey. To harness the freshest flavor, cut herbs just before using them. It’s easy to understand why some gardeners would plant herbs simply for their aromatic qualities. Lavender-scented candles, lemon balm drawer sachets and custom potpourris made from a variety of fragrant herbs are just a few of the ways they can be used. Lemon verbena, mint, rosemary and thyme are all popular choices. Of course, scents can be used for the opposite purpose, as well. Lavender, mint and lemon balm are commonly used as bug repellents, so consider planting some in pots near where you sit outside in the summer months. Some strongly scented herbs can also be used to repel the hungry deer population at Smith Mountain Lake. Use anise, chives, dill, horseradish, lavender, lemon balm, rosemary and mint as a border to hide the more deer-delicious varieties of herbs or flowers. There are many herbs that provide a wide range of health benefits, including immune-boosting, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal effects. One of the most popular herbs used for medicinal purposes is ginger (think ginger ale when you’re sick). It has anti-nausea effects as well as broad-spectrum antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant and anti-parasitic properties. Peppermint is one of those home remedies used in tea when one is sick— and why not? It benefits the respiratory system. Lavender is

used to calm and relax—consider the bath soaks with lavender used for this very purpose. Growing Tips

Smith Mountain Lake is in USDA’s Zone 7b for plant hardiness, which means temperatures can dip low in the winter months and you’ll need to plant accordingly. Some herbs are perennial and will come back year after year—if the ice and snow don’t get to them first. Chive eagerly reseeds itself. Rosemary, a woody plant, will last the winter through, and sage, lemon balm and mint come back at the first sign of summer. Herbs are relatively easy to grow as long as they get abundant sunshine, regular watering, a little fertilizer and are planted in soil that drains well. If planting in your landscape, consider spots where herbs have plenty of room to spread out and where they’ll get morning sun and afternoon shade in the hottest months of summer. A good choice for dill, catnip, cilantro, mint, tarragon and thyme is a spot that gets filtered light, such as in the shade of trees like oaks that do not have shallow roots. Trim the lowest branches to provide dappled sunlight. Another option is to grow herbs in raised beds or containers kept just outside your kitchen on your patio or deck. From season to season, refresh and reinvigorate the soil by turning it with rich compost and loosening the earth to promote drainage. Other container trends for herbs include Mason jars, wall planters and tiered towers or ladders. You can start your herbs indoors in peat pots in a sunny window, or in a small greenhouse. Transfer them to the garden proper once the threat of frost has passed. Another way to start herbs is to visit some of the well-stocked greenhouses in the area for seedlings, which will produce greenery much faster. In the hotter months, water daily. The best time to water herbs is in the morning, when the evaporation threat is minimal; watering in the evening can cause fungus. From designing a complicated herb garden to having a few pots handy on your porch, be assured that herbs will increase your olfactory, visual and gustatory pleasures. ✦

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DESIGN great rooms Photo: Don Petersen

PUT THE in your GREAT ROOM BY N O E L L E M I L A M

ne thing that can be enjoyed year-round when living lakeside is the view. No matter the season—whether springtime blooms, summer sunsets, fall foliage or wintery snowscapes—the eye is always drawn to the interplay of water, sky and landscape. Is it any wonder then that most new construction and renovation projects are undertaken with the goal of opening up the rooms of the home, uniting kitchen, dining and living rooms into one “great room”? The goal is most often the creation of an open-concept space that capitalizes on the ability to accommodate togetherness while showcasing beautiful Smith Mountain Lake views from every room.

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Uniting several rooms into one great room also can have its challenges, however. For instance, great rooms can sometimes feel too big, too open and too cold. Cathedral ceilings and a profusion of windows can exacerbate the sensation of being dwarfed in a giant room. Additionally, it can be difficult to find a balance between space and purpose in a large room. For example, homeowners may need to balance friends and family who want to watch a game on the big screen with others who might desire a quiet space for reading or conversation. The answer for those struggling to come to terms with how to best utilize their great room space is to break it up into smaller zones built around the various uses your family and guests enjoy. Zones might include areas for food preparation, bar, dining areas both formal and casual (think barstools at a counter) and a television space with comfortable, casual seating oriented in such a way that programming may be comfortably watched. Another zone idea to consider is a quiet nook away from the television with relaxed seating where two or three people might gather for a cup of tea and conversation. Include a small table that can be used for 3 2

extra seating when entertaining, but also for crafts and board games. If there are very young children in the family, you might also consider a small play zone with storage for a few baskets of toys or books built at child level and perhaps a childsized table, as well. Zones can and should be customized to match the way your family will use the space, so everyone’s input is important. Remember, these rooms often unite several rooms so it should be unsurprising that this space will have to accommodate several purposes. Rugs and Furniture

While you want your various zones to flow, you also want them to be visually separate. One of the best ways to delineate the zones in your great room is by using area rugs. The current trend is to “float” your furniture arrangements—meaning that furniture is arranged away from the room’s walls. So, imagine your entire space as a lake (not unlike the one outside your windows), and area rugs are your islands where you will construct each zone. You can purchase two or three of the same rugs or choose complementary ones in various sizes to best fit each arrangement. If your

great room is of more modest proportions, consider rugs in neutral colors. You will need to plan for and allow space for movement between your islands/ zones and each will need a focal point (a piece of artwork, a beautiful hearth, the television, or simply a gorgeous view, showcased by windows and doors) and a sense of balance. Note that “balance” does not mean you need to maintain perfect symmetry. Juxtaposing placement of a heavy piece of furniture such as a grand piano with a grouping of smaller pieces will help achieve balance. To that end, make sure your furniture is sized proportionally to your room and to the other parts of your tableau. For example, a delicate antique settee will look lost in an oversized room with very high ceilings and windows, but a pair of large, overstuffed sofas will look right at home. Keep in mind the old adage used by good hosts and hostesses: Make sure that every seat has a comfortable (and obvious) place to put down a drink. Lighting and Color

Since great rooms incorporate several rooms into one, it is important to coordinate your use of color throughout. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

Photo: KG Thienemann

Photo: Craig Shaffer

Many designers recommend painting the walls a light or neutral color. This is an especially good idea for lakeside homes as it helps to focus attention on the beautiful views. Neutral walls do not mean that you shouldn’t incorporate color, though. Choosing a “signature color” is a great way to enhance the visual flow throughout the space. A splash of turquoise or persimmon, for example, that pops up in the kitchen backsplash, the arrangement on the dining table and the throw pillows in the seating areas, is a perfect example of carrying a signature color throughout. Doing so will visually unite the zones while still maintaining their separate purposes. During daylight hours, the sun’s power is often intensified because of the reflective property of water, so fading and sun damage are real concerns for homeowners who live lakeside. Be sure to request UV treatments for fabrics, rugs and upholstery, if possible, and take care when placing antiques in direct sunlight. To enhance evening time spent in your great room, you’ll want to create a lighting plan for each zone. Depending on the height of your ceilings, you may want to consider overhead lighting. Very high

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cathedral ceilings deserve high-impact lighting, such as a large-scale chandelier to illuminate their upper reaches. Additional thought is warranted for lighting each zone. Overhead lighting might be fine over the dining area, but will not be adequate for zones where one might be reading a book or working a crossword puzzle. In these areas, task lighting in the form of table lamps, sconces or directional cup lights embedded in the ceiling might provide the additional light that’s needed. Accommodating Technology

Often the hardest decisions when decorating or even rearranging a living space have to do with technology. We tend to have a love-hate relationship with the television, cable box, DVD players, gaming consoles, speakers and the many other components that make up the entertainment area. We love having friends over to watch a big game; we enjoy the sound of music playing in the background while we entertain; we need wi-fi for our phones, tablets and computers, but all those boxy components, unsightly wires and expansive TVs can negate the aesthetic appeal of the elegant and inviting space you’ve carefully planned out. But like it or not, technology has become integral to our lives, so it’s only reasonable to incorporate the use of it into your great room planning. There are various ways to hide components, and even the TV when it is not in use. Built-in or custom furniture can hide all those black boxes and, if you like, close the door on the television when it’s not in use. Outlets for charging laptops and phones can be installed in the floor under couches or chairs to prevent wires from becoming a tripping hazard (and they work beautifully for table lamp cords as well). The key to decorating around such technological necessities is to incorporate them into your plans from the start. Don’t wait until you have the “perfect” great room arrangement and then start trying to figure out where to put the giant flatscreen TV. Remember, too, as you go about the process of imagining or reimagining your great room layout, that nothing is set in stone. Sometimes you need to live with an arrangement for a while before determining if it’s working or not. There are no hard and fast rules, so if you try something in one place and feel it’s not ideal for your family, you can rethink and rearrange. Repurpose the space as your family’s needs evolve, or, if you like, change things up with the seasons or even your mood. The versatility of the great room is what gives it timeless appeal and figuring out new and better ways to use the space will keep it fresh and inviting for years to come. ✦ 3 4

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THE DELIGHT IS IN THE DETAILS B Y R YA N T I P P S P h oto g r a p hy by KG T h i e n e m a n n

Around the turn of the decade, David Tyrrell called up custom homebuilder Zach Baldridge with a question that was anything but simple: “Want to have some fun for the next five years or so?” The result is a stunning and completely personalized 5,000-square-foot home perched on a peninsula in Park Place. Harvesting wheat-like patterns, hand-crafting wainscoting, and channeling thematic elements from end to end, the journey was as much the destination as the final product. David Tyrrell and Lauren Hafner were drawn to Smith Mountain Lake about 15 years ago. They tried Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks and other sites before working their way eastward. “I had always wanted to come back to a place on a lake, near the mountains. It was a lifestyle I enjoyed,” says David, a New England native who also has a home in Florida. Despite not knowing the area well, SML drew them in. Here was the perfect combination of scenery and serenity, with abundant available housing space. The couple purchased three lots: one in Contentment Island, one at Bernard’s Landing, and one at the northwestern end of the lake. The northwestern end is where they built their first lake home, but it was Contentment Island that changed the course of their lives at SML. smlhomemaga zine .com 37

“I have always done my own clearing work,” David says. “My chainsaw is my favorite piece of machinery.” Tyrrell was clearing land at his lot in Contentment Island while Baldridge was building a house on the adjacent lot. From there, all it took was a chat, a tour and a handshake—and the foundation of a partnership was laid. Despite having the three lots, none suited the couple for what they wanted to build for their permanent residence. With the help of real estate professional Glenda McDaniel, they found their Park Place location, an isolated lot with more than 2,000 feet of shoreline and views of Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Once they settled on the property for their dream home, they quickly got Baldridge on board. David explained to Baldridge he wanted a big bungalow, arts-and-crafts-type of house: hip roofs, large overhangs, clever stonework, big wainscoting inside. Baldridge was the right choice for the project. He owns True Custom Inc., a homebuilding company with a handful of employees based out of Lynchburg. He is a fourth-generation homebuilder who brings artistry and precision into the process. Carpentry and computer design skills mesh seamlessly with his creativity. What also came in handy was his communication and collaboration. Because when David said it was going to be a five-year process, he wasn’t kidding. “I can’t tell you how many different iterations of homes that we went through,” he says. “This house is 120 feet long, but the first plan was for one 160 feet long with a big wraparound porch.” David and Baldridge spent two years designing the home, and construction lasted 18 to 24 months. The couple moved in in the spring of 2015 and the dock was completed in the fall. “It was a really collaborative program, the design time between David and I,” says Baldridge, who has now built about 10 homes at SML. “He’s very creative and has lots of good ideas.” David, a retired attorney, jokingly refers to himself as a frustrated architect— enough of one, at least, to have a working knowledge of proportions and structure. No matter where he was, he and Baldridge were sketching and sending ideas back and forth. “I don’t know any other builder who would spend that kind of time with a client like me, going back and forth. I can get a little detail-oriented at times,” David says. “He’s willing to go to those lengths, but he also has the creative part of it.”

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David explained to Baldridge he wanted a big bungalow, arts-and-crafts-type of house: hip roofs, large overhangs, clever stonework, big wainscoting inside.

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DAVID, A RETIRED ATTORNEY, JOKINGLY REFERS TO HIMSELF AS A FRUSTRATED ARCHITECTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;ENOUGH OF ONE, AT LEAST, TO HAVE A WORKING KNOWLEDGE OF PROPORTIONS AND STRUCTURE. NO MATTER WHERE HE WAS, HE AND BALDRIDGE WERE SKETCHING AND SENDING IDEAS BACK AND FORTH.

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THE HOME CARRIES THROUGH IT VARIOUS WOODEN AND METAL THEMES, INCLUDING A PATTERN CALLED “WHEAT,” WHICH WAS POPULARIZED BY RENOWNED ARCHITECT FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT. BALDRIDGE WAS ABLE TO FASHION HIS OWN SPIN ON THE CONCEPT AND INCORPORATE IT IN THE RAILINGS. 4 0

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Baldridge combined computer technology with the metal work and fabricated the specialty items in his Lynchburg shop. It allowed for distinctive details that are normally costprohibitive.

The home carries through it various wooden and metal themes, including a pattern called “wheat,” which was popularized by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Baldridge was able to fashion his own spin on the concept and incorporate it in the railings, in the glass of the bedroom doors, on the fireplace hood, in the chandelier and, perhaps most impressively, on the powerful custom-made front door. Baldridge combined computer technology with the metal work and fabricated the specialty items in his Lynchburg shop. It allowed for distinctive details that are normally cost-prohibitive. “I took what they liked and tried to figure out how we could make it happen,” the builder says. “I think my background with the different materials and technologies means that we find ways to create things and keep the costs down.” Baldridge says he doesn’t want the details of a home to feel standardized—they shouldn’t be something that can simply be ordered out of a catalog. He encourages his clients to work with him in visualizing the goals for a home. Ideas came often from David, and Baldridge regularly adapted to the input. “Ideas happen anywhere,” Lauren says. “We’d be traveling, and we’d be in a castle in Italy, and he’s taking pictures of the ceiling.” The unexpected and inspired details throughout the home make it not just a splendid sight from afar but also a marvel up close: cypress siding, bracket designs, slate column caps, decorative metal windmill designs, specialized light-switch plates. Abundant lighting and walkable floor plan cinch the themes together.

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The homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s common wheat pattern stands out in the dining room chandelier, a rectangular multilayered creation that Baldridge custom made.

An imposing stone chimney anchors the living room, complemented by a fireplace sporting a reflective copper hood.

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“Both of them are so detailoriented,” Lauren says of David and the builder. From the cozy sitting room tucked away from the main flow to the earthtoned decor throughout, very few areas in the home escape a personal artistic touch. The home’s common wheat pattern stands out in the dining room chandelier, a rectangular multilayered creation that Baldridge custom made. Adjacent to that, an imposing stone chimney anchors the living room, complemented by a fireplace sporting a reflective copper hood. Stylized beams, indirect overhead lighting and nearly floor-to-ceiling windows (with a majestic view of Smith Mountain) make the living room an easy area to appreciate. “If someone wants to sit down and they enjoy the process like I do of designing the house, then Zach’s the best at working through that process with you,” David says. The end result has four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms on a little more than four acres of land. The master bedroom, particularly, sets

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itself apart with its stained-glass doorway, center-positioned bed, and multi-directional views of the property, which are shaded by an exceptionally large overhang. The ornate master bathroom latches onto the home’s decorative artistry and won’t let go. The second floor extends the length of the house, with a hallway that connects bedrooms and bonus rooms appearing limitless. One bathroom features unusual placement of dual sinks directly below the windows with mirrors mounted to the side that can be extended out when needed. The result is a spectacular, unobstructed view of the lake and mountain for guests. The extensive space is crucial to the couple; the home is one that’s enjoyed not just by the homeowners but also by their family and friends. Over three months last summer, the first since the home’s completion, they entertained six rounds of guests. “This is an active home,” David notes. Now that the couple has lived nearly two full years in the home, it has a lived-in feel, comfortably accented by warm decor and welcoming landscaping. It’s not something that a builder such as Baldridge always gets to see. But his connection during the design and construction with David and Lauren wasn’t typical of builders. “It was a lot of fun,” he says, “and it’s great to come back now to look at the completed, furnished, landscaped product.” ✦ 4 4

One bathroom features unusual placement of dual sinks directly below the windows with mirrors mounted to the side. The result is an unobstructed view of the lake and mountain for guests.

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LIVE easy appetizers

make-ahead

appetizers

ADVANCE PLANNING IS KEY TO ENJOYING LAKESIDE ENTERTAINING BY NOELLE MILAM THE DOORBELL RINGS. GUESTS ARE HERE! When entertaining at Smith Mountain Lake, few tend to tarry too long in the house. Friends and family move quickly outside to the decks and porches, yards and piers, where they can soak up the beauty and tranquility of the lake. As the host, where would you rather be? Outside enjoying yourself and your company or trapped in the kitchen, chopping, baking and scrambling to plate enough appetizers to feed your crowd? 46

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The most gracious hosts understand that entertaining that appears effortless is really just entertaining that is well planned.

rom last-minute, drop-in guests to larger planned gatherings, entertaining is more fun when you’re part of the party, not a slave to the kitchen. Smart hosts know the trick to pulling off a gathering that is as enjoyable for you as it is for your guests: Do as much as you can in advance, so when that doorbell rings, you can whisk off the apron and join the party. By following a few easy guidelines, you can prepare your appetizers weeks or days ahead, freeze or refrigerate them until needed, and enjoy peace of mind of knowing you can have a lovely spread of hors d’oeuvres ready and waiting at short notice. Weeks Before

There are tons of delicious appetizers that can be made weeks ahead, frozen and pulled out on the day of your lake gathering. Many savories fall into this category. Think pot stickers, sliders, meatballs, mini quiches, and most doughs for making cheese sticks or puffs. Crab cakes and twice-baked potato bites are also crowd-pleasers that freeze nicely. These appetizers are hearty and can also double as light dinners, if necessary, when paired with a soup or salad. When freezing prepared food, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your apps come out of the freezer looking and tasting as good as when they went in. You want your creations to freeze as quickly as possible after preparation and stay frozen until you plan to use them. In general, the faster food freezes, the better condition it will be in when thawed. A few helpful tips: n Package your appetizers in small, freezer-safe containers. Don’t

forget to label and date. n Chill containers of prepared food in the refrigerator before freezing; this will help them freeze more efficiently. Move containers to the freezer once cold. n Don’t place unfrozen items next to each other (though it’s perfectly fine to go back once they are frozen and stack them together).

Days Before

A few days before you plan to entertain, make a list of appetizers you have on hand (remember those you froze a few weeks ago?) and the ones you still plan to make. The goal of this planning is to minimize your workload on the day of the party, so think of what can be shopped for and assembled a few days ahead. There are several good options for appetizers that can be made a couple of days in advance and brought out at party time, including layered dips, terrines, cheese balls, salsas and deviled eggs. These often are the appetizers that require substantial chopping, mixing or peeling and perhaps the aid of a food processor or counter mixer—invaluable time-savers to be sure, but not what you want out on your countertop on the day of the party! This classification of appetizers can be refrigerated for a day or two and can even be plated, so that (as in the case of dips, salsa or terrines) you can simply pop them out of the refrigerator and add fresh tortilla chips, sliced baguettes, or whatever you have planned for your guests to enjoy with your creations. These accompaniments can also be purchased several days to weeks in advance, and many seasoned hosts simply keep their pantries stocked with various chips and crackers that can be pulled out at a moment’s notice to serve alongside homemade appetizers. Party Day

If you’ve planned well, on the day of your gathering (or perhaps the night before) the only things you will need to remember to do are defrost your frozen appetizers and preheat your oven. Everything else is ready to bring out just before guests arrive. The most gracious hosts understand that entertaining that appears effortless is really just entertaining that is well planned. So get out there and enjoy! Instead of spending precious time at your own party making appetizers, make memories with your friends and family. Having a menu of delicious, no-fuss appetizers ready and available, with minimal effort once guests arrive, is the key to enjoying those unforgettable lakeside gatherings from the porch, not the kitchen. ✦

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IMPROVE dock functionality

Down on the Dock MAKE YOUR BOATHOUSE WORK FOR YOU BY J ERRY HALE Anyone who lives or plays at Smith Mountain Lake knows the dock can be a wonderful extension of summer living and entertaining space. So for lakefront property owners planning a dock build or renovation— or just hoping to DIY some improved functionality into their headquarters for waterfront fun— we offer our top tips for making your dock more functional.

Photo: KG Thienemann

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Photo: KG Thienemann

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Increase Storage

AEP’s shoreline management rules limit the size of new dock house enclosures to, in most cases, just 72 square feet. Adding to your boathouse a ceiling with a pull-down access stairway will create out-of-sight storage for water toys, fishing gear, extra life jackets, noodles, and other bulky water fun equipment. Getting all that gear stowed above a ceiling means precious dock house space can be used for a small fridge, bar, cabinetry and other entertaining essentials. Welcome Guests

Nothing says “Welcome to our dock!” better than a floating dock equipped with guest lines and pre-attached fenders. A pair of nylon or Dacron dock lines (synthetics stand up to weather’s ravages; inexpensive cotton lines won’t) and dock cushioning make it quick and easy for guests to tie up and come ashore. Mount your fenders a few inches out of the water; floating fenders more rapidly turn black with mildew.

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Mark Lift Height

A ring of colored tape wrapped on one of your lift guide poles (or a zip tie on one chain) will designate exactly when the lift is low enough for the boat to float off, and also tip you to water level changes that may have occurred while you were out cruising. When deciding where to place the visual cue, take into consideration the weight of your typical crew on board when you want to float free. Ease PWC Boarding

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For those who use cradle lifts (as opposed to the driveon/slide-off kind) for personal watercraft (PWC), getting aboard when the water is down a few feet can be tricky and dangerous. A remote lift control eliminates this problem. But if you don’t have this handy gadget, mount a swim ladder beside your PWC and simply climb down to straddle the saddle. Install Lighting

Evening cruises mean you sometimes return to a pitch-dark dock, which can be difficult to approach. Install a photosensitive switch on a dock spotlight; flip it on before you leave so it turns on after sunset to light your return. Solar-powered dock lighting is normally photo sensitive, too, and comes in various styles to suit where you want fixtures placed. Check out the Game

A flat-screen TV can be mounted on a covered dock piling or dock house wall—just about anywhere that’s convenient for watching weekend games or catching the evening news during cocktail time. Prices have dropped considerably in recent years, perhaps leaving room in the budget for a wireless signal or cable feed down to the dock. When determining where to place the screen, be sure to pick a spot that’s always shaded. Encourage Napping

Attractive and budget-friendly furniture built to withstand the outdoor elements can be found in stores and online, so there’s no excuse for not having at least one comfy snoozing lounge chair. Don’t forget hammock options, either free-standing or strung between pilings (or even trees on shore).

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the dock house, to hang a selection of life jackets. The SML Water Safety Council recommends this as House Rule #1: “Children must wear life jackets on the dock and in the boat.” Adults can set a good example by donning theirs when on the water, too.

Photo: Jerry Hale

Photo: Michael Patch

Store Water Toys

Tow tubes, water “chairs,” kayaks and paddleboards take up precious dock space and are susceptible to UV deterioration (and taking flight in a brisk breeze). Develop a custom rack or pulley system to raise them up and out of the way. Be sure to contain them with shock cords or other fasteners so they don’t flop around in the wind or break free when an afternoon storm blows through. Pamper Tender Feet

Covering your floating dock with outdoor carpeting avoids splinters and protects from a surface that

otherwise gets blistering hot on a summer afternoon. Make sure the carpet you choose is resistant to moisture and UV rays.

Experienced dock builders are familiar with the limitations on storage and functionality imposed by SML’s shoreline management plan, and having a professional perform a dock survey is a good way to identify opportunities for making better use of space. Many of the ideas noted here, however, can be accomplished by a reasonably handy do-ityourselfer intent on making his or her dock more user-friendly. Have at it and enjoy the results! ✦

Display Life Vests

Most boaters accumulate various sizes of life jackets to make sure there’s a proper fit for any guests they take aboard. Church rummage sales are one good place to find fill-in sizes at attractive prices (but note that if there are rips, missing straps or safety labels that are no longer legible, they won’t qualify as USCG approved). Create a rack near the primary lakeaccess door from the house, or in

Photo: KG Thienemann

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GARDEN outdoor lighting

ALL THE

LIGHT MOVES outdoor lighting takes your property from dark to dazzling BY CHRIST Y RIPPEL Owning a lake home, whether a full-time residence or weekend retreat, is usually the culmination of years of thought, planning and saving. A beautiful lake house is a dream realized, so why enjoy your property only during the daylight hours? “I often tell people, you’ve spent all this money on landscaping and you can only see it 10-12 hours a day,” says Westlake Turf and Irrigation’s George Kerr, who frequently creates lighting plans for lake properties. “There are two main things outdoor lighting can do: It can make your property safer and make it look more beautiful.” The safety benefit is two-fold, explains Clay Johnston of Outdoor Lighting Expressions, a design and installation company that works frequently with Smith Mountain Lake customers. “Many homeowners at the lake are only there parttime, so automatic lights that come on daily can make it seem as though someone is always home.” Most systems are set up with the GPS location of the property, so they adjust to various light conditions throughout the calendar year. Another safety benefit, says Johnston, is that lighted steps, driveways and paths are less tricky at night. But the beauty aspect comes from highlighting the unique architectural elements of the home and property. Great outdoor lighting is also a selling point, and enhances a home’s overall value, according to Johnston. If you think outdoor lighting might suit your property but don’t know where to begin, read on, then wait for nightfall and grab a flashlight, pen and paper. 52

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The basics of light and creating a wish list

Any good interior designer will tell you that lighting a space is about layering three types of light: overall, task and accent. The same guidelines can apply to outdoor lighting. Overall lighting illuminates an entire space, task lighting is used for a specific purpose (reading, lighting a path) and accent lighting—the icing on the cake—draws attention to an object or area. With this in mind, use a flashlight and walk your property at dusk, with a focus first on safety. What are the areas that need lighting in order for family and visitors to be safe? This would include any steps, paths, long driveways or tricky terrain, as well areas around the water, such as a dock. These areas should go first on your lighting wish list. If there are areas that need functional, overall lighting (a shed or boathouse, for example) note those as well. For task lighting, consider food prep areas like a grill or outdoor bar. Note favorite spots, like a bench or stone garden wall that would benefit aesthetically from illumination. Think about whether you’d like to light up your home from the lake side, visible to those visiting by boat. Finally, consider how you’d like to use your property at night. Do you envision long, lazy dinners on the patio, but need better lighting to do so? Physically walking your property at night can help crystallize some ideas in your mind, and with safety as number one, can help your prioritize your wants and needs for consultation with a lighting professional. What’s new in outdoor LED

Photo: Craig Shaffer

Many homeowners shy away from LED at first mention, recalling the unnatural bluish glow of early LED bulbs. Instead of watts, LED is measured in Kelvins (K), and bulbs range from 1,800 K, which is very red in tone, to 7,500 K, which is a bluish white. Johnston advises sticking to 2,700-3,000 K for a warm glow, which is nearly indistinguishable from halogen, once the gold standard in outdoor lighting. However, LEDs have many benefits that halogen can’t touch, which is why both Johnston’s and Kerr’s companies exclusively install LED systems in new projects, in addition to offering conversions on existing halogen systems to LED.

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Photo: Outdoor Lighting Expressions

“In our business, LEDs save the customer 75-80 percent [on the electric bill, over halogen] and substantially reduce maintenance,” says Johnston. “The LEDs we use last about 50,000 hours, so instead of having to change bulbs every year or two, they should last 10 years or more.” For outdoor use, LED lighting is the safer option because the fixtures don’t create much heat, cutting down on the possibility of a mulch fire in extremely dry weather. Another bonus? Because LEDs don’t emit UV rays, they don’t attract as many bugs, which is great for lights near doorways that are often opened and closed. LED technology has now progressed to offer colorchanging options, which can be fun for limited use, such as at the holidays. Multiple lighting schemes that can be turned on independently of one another for different looks is also something to consider. Budget-friendly lighting

Photo: Outdoor Lighting Expressions

While do-it-yourself systems may seem like a cost-effective option, it’s important to make sure they don’t use lower-quality materials like plastic that may wear out quickly. Professionally installed fixtures are made of high-quality materials like cast

Photo: Outdoor Lighting Expressions

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brass and copper, designed to weather the elements, so the ageold adage “you get what you pay for” certainly applies. A design professional can work with your list of needs and wants, and may have suggestions you never even considered. Kerr recalls a project at the lake where they lit up a floating dock from underneath; one of Johnston’s favorite projects was lighting up a large dock with more than 70 lights in a way that highlighted its unique architecture. If a lighting project isn’t in the budget this year, you can still bring some outdoor flair to your space by spending a small amount. Consider hanging inexpensive bistro string lights (like you might see at an outdoor café). It’s also fairly easy to create Ball jar lanterns or grapevine ball lights (grapevine or other natural materials in a ball shape with string lights wound throughout) that can be hung from trees to give off an ethereal glow. The addition of a gorgeous outdoorrated chandelier or fixture to a covered deck, patio or porch can also light the night to bring a wow factor to special evening gatherings. Implement some of these ideas into your landscape, and you can enjoy the view, even after the sun goes down. ✦

Photo: Outdoor Lighting Expressions

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outdoor lighting 101 When lighting a tree, light both the trunk and foliage, or the foliage will look like it is floating. Trees can also be illuminated from above with a downlight. In garden beds, place lights no closer than 20 feet apart, as you want the pools of light to guide the eye instead of continuous illumination. For garden walls, light should be close to the base of the wall to bring textures into focus. To highlight an element, like a bench, arbor or fountain, aim two or more lights at it, as the crossing beams reduce the harsh shadowing that occurs from a singular light. Photo: Craig Shaffer

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DESIGN durable fabrics

high performance, low stress TODAY’S FABRICS LET YOU LIVE AND ENTERTAIN WITHOUT WORRY BY RORY RHODE S

A home is meant to be lived in. We understand this intuitively, even as we flinch when our darling child gets ketchup on the dining room chair, that adorable new puppy has an accident on the rug, or Uncle Fester spills chili on the sofa. “C’est la vie” may be an admirable mantra, but it doesn’t mean we have to resign ourselves to ruined decor unless we rope off rooms or coat the furniture with plastic covers. Today’s fabrics combine technology with designer looks to create textiles that feel like regular fabric but are tough enough to handle whatever life throws at them (or drops on them). Living near the lake can add an extra challenge to interior design with wet towels, people and pets making their way indoors at various times. Add to that dirt, food and drink stains, the wear and tear of daily living, frequent guests and occasional parties, and you could find yourself wincing when anyone gets near your favorite upholstered piece. smlhomemaga zine .com 57

Durable fabric designed for indoor and outdoor use often seems more “outdoor” than “indoor,” and can evoke images of scratchy patio pillows from a home improvement store, with their stiff, waxy finishes and bold patterns. Those are great for your porch or dock, but not necessarily what you want inside. There is good news, however. While there’s no denying that early outdoor fabric had all the glamour of an old diner booth, the latest generation of indoor-outdoor fabric is surprisingly chic and worth considering. There’s also a new trend in the textile industry that’s making a big splash in interior design: high-performance fabric. Kris Willard, owner of Interiors by Kris at Westlake Corner, has been decorating homes and businesses in the Smith Mountain Lake region for more than 30 years. Her shop and showroom carries a large selection of both indoor and outdoor furniture, and she says high-performance fabrics are becoming the design standard. “I do believe this is the way the whole industry is going,” says Willard. “If you’re going to invest money into buying furniture, you want it to hold up.” Willard says that while clients initially can be skeptical about the idea of highperformance fabric, once they see what’s available and how easy it is to maintain, “it’s all they want.” At last autumn’s furniture market in High Point, North Carolina—the world’s largest home furnishings trade show— high-performance fabrics were all the rage. Crypton, a company that specializes in indoor upholstery performance fabric, offers an array of fabrics from licensed mills to which its special “performance technology” is applied, resulting in a product that features stain, moisture, and even microbial protection, while still feeling like a “normal” fabric. The company even has a promotional video showing half-guilty, half-gleeful kids mauling the fabric in various ways—coloring on it with crayons, spilling blueberry pie, and rubbing in chocolate ice cream with their toes—followed by a quick and easy cleanup with a spray bottle and toothbrush. Sunbrella fabrics were also showcased at the High Point furniture market for the first time. Well-known as a leader in performance fabrics, mainly in outdoor and marine applications, Sunbrella has recently paired with various designer brands to expand its color and pattern offerings and positioned itself as offering a textile for indoor use with a new, softer fabric. 5 8

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Whereas traditional outdoor fabric is often 100 percent polyester with a protective coating applied to the finished product, Sunbrella’s new solution-dyed acrylic is a liquid acrylic solution that is mixed with dye, then shaped into fiber which is spun into yarn. The result is a smooth, pliable fabric whose stain- and fade-resistant properties are built into the material. It’s pricier than traditional outdoor fabric (around $30-$60 per yard; more from high-end sources) but its softer drape allows it to be used in new ways, including upholstery and even drapery. You may have to spend a little more upfront, but the enhanced durability means you may save both time and money down the road. Believe it or not, these new highperformance fabrics also are a healthconscious choice. Moyanne Harding, owner of Interiors by Moyanne in Lynchburg, says both she and her clients are increasingly aware of offgassing, the release of chemicals from some construction and home furnishing products. “I try to stay on the side of more organic materials,” she says, noting that VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in older outdoor fabrics may be a health concern when used indoors. Harding says that for residential design where durability or high use is an issue, she uses Crypton fabrics, particularly in rec rooms, dens and kids rooms. Both Crypton and Sunbrella have a “Greenguard Gold Certification” for low chemical emissions, meaning they comply with strict standards for use in environments such as schools and healthcare facilities. Whether you’re looking for new furniture, to recover a cherished piece, or even just to swap out some tired throw pillows, high-performance fabrics are a smart option. “We always recommend it because it’s going to hold up forever,” says Willard, who notes that they also don’t fade in sunny areas. Willard says she and many other designers are turning to high-performance fabrics to give their clients a high-end look with low-maintenance upkeep. Especially in today’s homes, where rooms are often multifunctional and embrace a more casual atmosphere, having decor that can withstand the demands of daily living while entertaining in style is a worthwhile investment in both your home and your sanity. ✦

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seamless transition

accommodating ample water views and frequent guests is what this Smith Mountain Lake home renovation was all about B Y R YA N T I P P S P h oto g r a p hy by C r a i g S h af f e r WHEN CAROL NOESNER WAKES UP IN THE MORNING, THE FIRST THING SHE SEES IS WATER. It’s perfection—the beauty of Smith Mountain Lake pouring through the bedroom windows. That view, created by nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, is the chief reason that Carol and her husband, Gary, bought their property near The Waterfront Country Club. The lake, after all, is the reason so many people nestle in the comfort of this part of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. According to Carol, a home should complement the lake experience, not detract from it. The lake, she says, “That should be the star of the show.” smlhomemaga zine .com 61

t the Noesners’ home, SML is certainly the star. The property has 161 feet of shoreline, and the spacious dock and boathouse is where they spend most of their time during the warm months. Yet in their 3,500-square-foot home, the windows, sliding doors and deck railings help to amplify the lake’s presence as much as possible. Since buying the property in 2003 and moving in full-time in 2008, the former Fairfax residents have stretched and renovated their house to suit their style and accommodate frequent visits from friends and family. “It’s pretty rare for us in the summer not to have company, whether that’s our kids or other friends,” says Gary, a Florida native who is much fonder of lakes than he is the ocean. “This isn’t a huge home, but it has a lot of bedroom space. So when all of our grandkids come down, it accommodates us well.” The Noesners’ house was built in the late 1970s and for a long time was a small getaway cottage. In the early ’90s, an addition was created with a lower-level walkout bedroom and bathroom. That would be just the start of the home’s transformation into a beautiful retirement residence. It would be about 10 more years before the Noesners would buy the place and, with the help of contractor John Brock of BrockWorks Inc., put their signature touches on it. In that 10 years before they purchased the house, the Noesners visited SML for a week-long vacation with their three kids and became intrigued by the area. The couple met while working at 6 2

The largest change to the property since 2008 is the addition of an oversized two-car garage with a suite above.

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A cozy suite above the twocar garage often accommodates the Noesners’ visiting children and grandchildren.

the FBI, where Gary rose to be the bureau’s chief hostage negotiator. He later wrote a captivating book about his experiences called “Stalling for Time.” When Gary retired in 2003, they purchased their home at the lake. However, the house spent five years primarily as a weekend retreat while Gary continued to work as a security contractor. A few years later, after three decades in Northern Virginia, the time seemed right to become full-time lake residents. Looking back on that time, most people probably wouldn’t recognize that cottage as the home that currently sits on the land. This is no longer someone else’s home that the Noesners moved into; it is now theirs, down to many of the tiniest details. “We made it the way we wanted it for the rest of our lives, which is how long we plan to be here for,” Gary says. The largest change since 2008 is the addition of an oversized two-car garage with a suite above it, a project spearheaded from start to finish by Brock. He helped to expand the home into a four-bedroom place, with 4.5 bathrooms, and an office for Gary’s FBI memorabilia. In the addition, decorative yet functional lighting inset into the wall flanks the stairs as they lead up to an inviting living space and bedroom. Downstairs, an original exterior window opening was repurposed with stained glass, and a mud room and coat closet were created to help corral the clutter of a large family of visitors. To build the addition, the front entrance of the home had to be shifted, and it has been beautifully renovated with a new door and windows.

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To build the addition, the front entrance of the home had to be shifted, and it has been beautifully renovated with a new door and windows.

The reality of all of these changes might not have been so apparent to the Noesners without the 3D imaging software that Brock uses. The homebuilder was able to help the couple visualize the changes, allowing them to take the guesswork out of what the final product would look like. Over the long term, Brock says this technology has helped to improve communication with his clients and helps to eliminate any misconceptions people might have about the end result of a project. “When he brought that in, I felt more comfortable” with the direction of the project, Carol says. “Having the 3D modeling available was critical because I was able to show them what it would look like, particularly from the street,” Brock says. “I didn’t want it to look like a garage with an attached house; you want it to look like a house with an attached garage.” 6 4

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He succeeded, and the addition of the garage and suite ties in with the look and feel of the rest of the home. The old and new blend into one. “The motto with any renovation is that you want to make it look like it’s always been there,” Brock says. “I never dreamed it would be so seamless to work with him,” Gary says of Brock. “He would go through great detail to discuss the materials and the cost and the effort for the projects.” The Westlake-based builder has stayed on the forefront with the imaging technology that was so helpful to his work on the Noesner home. Today, the software helps him to create, in 3D, more realistic projections of the workspace. “It’s progressed to the point now where I can do high-quality animation and virtual tours where I can put you inside and you’re spinning around on your cellphone or tablet or computer in the room,” Brock says. “You can look up and all around on the tour.” In the reality of the Noesners’ home, there’s hardly a place one can look—up or down—and not see change. The addition aside, Roanoke-based Carter’s Cabinet Shop came in and worked with Brock to remodel the kitchen. New countertops and fixtures were added, new space has been allocated, and where there once was virtually no natural light (the original kitchen had no windows), they now welcome the warmth of the sun. The wall decor includes images of their kids taken

New countertops and fixtures were added in the kitchen, and where there once was virtually no natural light (the original kitchen had no windows), they now welcome the warmth of the sun. 6 6

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Throughout the house, flooring has been replaced, bathrooms renovated, sliding doors swapped out. Even the pickets that were part of the deck railings have been replaced with sturdy glass to provide a clear view of the lake.

from family albums—reminders of how their grandkids now resemble the way their kids used to look. The Noesners forego a formal dining room and instead can gather either at their high table (high enough to see the lake, that is) or in a sitting area adjacent to the kitchen. The space is equipped with ample storage below the seats and built-in bookshelves. The setting is a perfect one for coffee in chillier months. “This is not a traditional floor plan, so a lot of our friends who come over like it. It’s unique,” Gary says. Throughout the house, flooring has been replaced, bathrooms renovated, sliding doors swapped out. Even the pickets that were part of the deck railings have been replaced with sturdy glass to provide a clear view of the lake. 6 8

The lower-level bedroom and bathroom, which was created during the first renovation of the house in the 1990s, has been further updated. It’s one of the few rooms in the house that has carpeting, and the glass doors exit onto a path that winds down to the boat dock. It was on this path that Gary had installed a piece of his childhood—a stone dating to 1954 that was recovered from his original Florida home. On it are the names and handprints of him at age 3, his sister and the family dog. Some companionships never change: To this day, the Noesners only full-time roommate is their dog Charlie, the ideal complement to a life of lake serenity. “We always thought that when we settled down that we’d love to live on a place on the water,” Carol says. They’ve gotten their wish. ✦ S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

The spacious dock and boathouse is where the Noesners spend a great deal of time during the warm months. smlhomemaga zine .com 6 9

HOME, Sweet SML HOME BY ANDIE GIBSON Photos: Andie Gibson

Jake’s Place

IT’S NO SECRET SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE IS A VACATIONER’S PARADISE. Visitors flock here to enjoy the scenic mountain views, sparkling water and abundance of recreational opportunities. Many likely spend at least part of their vacation time dreaming about what it would be like to call SML home. As a full-time resident here for nearly 25 years, I can attest that living at the lake is pretty darn great. The pace of life is unhurried with little need to worry about traffic, crowds or an outrageous cost of living. 7 0

Portside Grill & Bar

Ours is a friendly, welcoming community comprised of proud natives and grateful transplants. While some are lucky retirees, others (like yours truly) have sought out SML as a place to work and raise their families—all while enjoying the best of what the lake area offers in four distinct seasons. If you’re thinking of making a permanent move to Smith Mountain Lake, I’ve compiled a few thoughts on what you may want to take into consideration. While this is certainly just the tip of the iceberg, I hope it provides valuable insight. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

Lay of the land

a Benzer Pharmacy. For the big stuff, Bedford has a Wal-Mart (about 20 minutes from the aforementioned Food Lion shopping center). Lynchburg has abundant shopping choices, including a Target about 45 minutes away. While housing is generally more remote, this side of the lake is home to Mariners Landing, a popular resort community that offers a variety of home and condo choices, as well as a golf course, pools, beach area, fitness facility, restaurant and boat docks. The south side of the lake, often referred to as Southlake, is accessible from Route 40 (Old Franklin Turnpike) and is ideal for those looking for a more secluded Smith Mountain Lake existence, as well as convenient access to Danville, Martinsville and North Carolina. Development here is primarily in Franklin County with a small amount of shoreline in Pittsylvania County, including access to Smith Mountain Dam. Southlake has limited commercial development but is home to a Dollar General, a locally owned general store, several nurseries, Photo: Andie Gibson

Mariners Landing Photo: Andie Gibson

First, let me share some SML basics and explain a little local lingo. The lake was created 50 years ago to generate electricity via a hydroelectric facility, and to manage downstream water flow. It is 40 miles long with approximately 500 miles of shoreline, which means multiple river channels and lots and lots of coves to explore. Smith Mountain Lake’s shoreline borders three different counties—Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania—which is why you’ll often hear locals refer to various regions of the lake as “the Bedford side,” “the Franklin side” and “south side.” There’s no right or wrong “side” as each has its own advantages based on personal preferences and priorities. Most of the western shorelines of SML are in Franklin County, which is where you’ll find abundant commercial development, primarily in the area known as Westlake Corner and at Hales Ford Bridge. Living on this side of the lake is ideal for those who value being close to amenities such as a movie theater, retail shops, home and garden outlets, an ABC store, restaurants and healthcare (mostly Lewis-Gale and Carilion Clinic facilities, including an urgent care center). Westlake Towne Center is home to a large, upscale Kroger that carries a wide variety of products foodies find appealing, including plentiful organic offerings. There’s also a huge selection of wine and beer (regular and craft) with on-site expert Lonnie Bryant happy to hook you up with recommendations. On Tuesdays, seniors earn an extra five percent off their purchases. You’ll find a full-service pharmacy at Kroger, as well as across the street at CVS. Two Dollar General Stores—one at Westlake Corner and one further south on Scruggs Road—are convenient spots to pick up household goods, groceries and other necessities. At Hales Ford Bridge, which connects Franklin and Bedford counties, you’ll find Bridgewater Plaza, a hub for smallscale, eclectic shopping (gifts, clothing, accessories, art) and dining that’s accessible by car and boat. For major shopping or commuting to work, Rocky Mount and Roanoke are most convenient. Rocky Mount has a Wal-Mart (approximately 20 minutes from Westlake), but if you need a Target fix, you’ll have to drive about 45 minutes to the Valley View Mall area of Roanoke. A number of established residential developments are easily accessible from Scruggs Road, including the lake’s oldest golf course community, The Waterfront Country Club, and several maintenance-free neighborhoods (more on that later). Most of the eastern shoreline of SML is in Bedford County, which offers similar amenities, though not quite as plentiful. Here you’ll find healthcare provided primarily by Lynchburg-based Centra, a number of stand-alone retail outlets and restaurants, as well as Downtown Moneta, a planned residential and commercial development with several shops, eateries and other businesses. Other popular local destinations include Diamond Hill General Store, which includes a deli, wine shop, gift shop and garden center, and Moneta Farm & Home Center for supplies related to home, garden, docks, pets, horses and more. Most residents on this side of the lake do their grocery shopping at a nice, well-stocked Food Lion located conveniently on Moneta Road (Route 122). You’ll find all the necessities here, including a deli, bakery, ample wine and beer selections, and a pharmacy. Nearby is a Dollar General, a new ABC store and

Bridgewater Plaza

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The Water’s Edge Country Club Photo: The Willard Companies

waterfrontage, water depth and whether it has an existing dock. SML has a number of resort and country club communities with a wide array of amenities such as onsite swimming pools, fitness facilities, restaurants, golf courses, tennis and pickle ball courts, equestrian facilities and shared docks. The most established include The Waterfront, The Water’s Edge, The Westlake, The Boardwalk, Bridgewater Bay, Bridgewater Pointe, Lands End, Contentment Island, Mariners Landing, Bernard’s Landing and Vista Pointe. Many of these communities offer maintenance-free options if you’re ready to leave the burden of lawn maintenance and other home-related chores behind. Also available is Runk & Pratt, a senior living facility in the heart of Westlake Corner that offers independent cottages, as well as full-service age-related care. Ultimately, what type of housing you choose comes down to cost and market availability. To determine that, you should consult with a qualified real estate professional. There are many experienced and reputable agents here who can provide in-depth information to help you make the most informed buying decision. Ask around for referrals or consult with the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce. Activities

The Water’s Edge Country Club Photo: The Willard Companies

gift shops and convenience stores. Locals love Carl’s Place, a combination convenience store and short-order grill that’s a hot spot daily for biscuits, breakfast platters and burgers. Yum! For grocery and other shopping, those who live on the south side of the lake travel to Westlake Corner, Rocky Mount or Gretna, all of which are about 20-25 minutes away. For bigger needs, Roanoke, Lynchburg and Danville are roughly equidistant. Residential development is secluded on the south side; however, it is home to The Water’s Edge Country Club, a private 7 2

golf course community where you’ll find some of the lake’s most spectacular homes. Nearby Contentment Island is another popular waterfront neighborhood. Real estate

Smith Mountain Lake offers a wide variety of housing options —from modest condominiums to functional townhomes to luxurious mansions. Offwater properties or those with limited lake access are generally more affordable than lakefront options, which can vary significantly in price based on the home’s size, age, slope of the lot, amount of

One thing you won’t have to worry about when making a permanent move to Smith Mountain Lake is how you’ll fill your days. During the warmer months, there are tons of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, biking, fishing and boating. My husband and I don’t own a boat, but we take advantage of the generosity of friends who do whenever possible. Our group particularly enjoys anchoring in a quiet cove and floating the afternoon away before heading to Portside Grill & Bar for chicken wings and a bucket of beer. Portside, a local favorite that’s only open in season, is one of about 20 restaurants accessible by water. On weekdays, boat traffic is considerably lighter, often to the point where you feel you have the lake all to yourself. If you don’t have access to a boat for outdoor activities, there are a number of companies that rent by the day or week. In addition, the SML State Park (Bedford S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

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County) and SML Community Park (Franklin County) have public fishing piers, beach access for swimming, and miles of scenic hiking and biking trails available for a small fee. Golf is also popular at SML, with two private courses and two public courses open year-round (weather permitting) and dozens more within an hour’s drive. Community service is a big part of life at SML with many residents involved in faith-based and secular outreach programs. Lake Christian Ministries, the Agape Center and SML Good Neighbors are just a few of the organizations that keep volunteers busy year-round. Other opportunities exist at local schools, churches, hospitals, fire and rescue squads, historic sites, humane societies (and other animal-related groups) and more. Smith Mountain Lake also prides itself on having a thriving arts community with ample opportunity to enjoy—and participate in—visual, performing and literary arts. The Smith Mountain Arts Council helps facilitate programs for those interested in writing, singing, acting, painting, songwriting, dancing, musical performance, photography and more. Book clubs are also really popular here. Smith Mountain Lake has two convenient libraries—one at Westlake Corner and the other near Downtown Moneta. Beyond artistic pursuits, there are clubs galore at SML. You’ll find active groups for professional and service organizations, including Rotary, Lions and Civitan clubs. If politics is your thing, consider SML Democrats or the SML Republican Women’s Club. Of course, you’ll also find plenty of outdoor-related groups such as the SML Boating Association, the SML Striper Club and the SML Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society. The Smith Mountain Lake Association is a large organization that advocates for a safe and healthy lake through a variety of programs spearheaded by volunteers. Fitness facilities also are plentiful at Smith Mountain Lake. There are YMCA branches at Westlake Corner and Downtown Moneta, a Zumba studio, as well as several private fitness centers and personal trainers. Also opening in 2017 is Carilion Wellness at Runk & Pratt, an 18,000-square-foot facility geared toward the needs of active seniors. In addition to functional training, group classes and aquatic therapy, Carilion Wellness offers nutritional counseling, health screenings and educational opportunities related to health and diet. This and that

Most businesses are open year-round and rely on locals to carry them through the winter, so consider shopping and dining local whenever possible. A number of barbers and hair salons as well as spas, massage facilities and nail salons dot the SML landscape. There are also several beloved veterinarians ready to care for your pets. Finding a spiritual home shouldn’t be difficult as the lake area offers dozens of churches in many denominations, including Baptist, Brethren, Episcopalian, Methodist, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic and more. Several Jewish synagogues and Greek Orthodox churches are located in Roanoke and Lynchburg. Silk Flower Arrangements | Home & Dock Décor | Gifts Smith Mountain Lake 400 Scruggs Rd. Suite 1100 Moneta, VA 24121

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Ready to move to Smith Mountain Lake? Great! There’s just one more thing worth mentioning: Expect friends and family to want to visit more often once you call Smith Mountain Lake your permanent home. ✦ S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

GARDEN buffer gardening Photo: KG Thienemann

PLANT AND PROTECT buffer landscaping adds beauty and helps keep Smith Mountain Lake clean BY R AY COX Responsible riparian stewardship has been gospel on the shores of Smith Mountain Lake for three decades or moreâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and the Smith Mountain Lake Association (SMLA) has been one of the bodies stationed prominently on the pulpit. In addition to collaborating with Ferrum College on year-round water quality monitoring, SMLA educates homeowners on the benefits of buffer landscaping as a way to help protect the quality of the lake, as well as their investment. According to Jim Pilversack, former chair of the associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Buffer Landscape Committee, creating a buffer landscape is not as intimidating as it may sound. It consists primarily of planting (or maintaining naturally growing) trees, shrubs and perennials near the shoreline to impede the filtration of pollutants into the lake. smlhomemaga zine .com 75

“There are so many variations for good bufferings to occur—from natural vegetation to terracing and more formal plantings,” Pilversack says. “There is no one best type of plant. We encourage the use of deep-rooted native plants as well as using layers such as trees, understory small trees, shrubs and perennials and groundcover.” The practice that is absolutely discouraged (but still present from place to place) is running a traditional lawn down to the shoreline. Turf grasses typically are shallowrooted and therefore largely ineffective as a buffer. Those dismayed by the thought of losing their lakefront yard should consider the hidden advantages, Pilversack says. “Once buffer landscaping is in place and established, there is less maintenance required than maintaining a large lawn with non-native ornamental plants,” he says. 7 6

Photo: Andie Gibson

ith more than 500 miles of shoreline, “big job” seems an inadequate term to describe SMLA’s ongoing effort. Yet waterfront property owners have embraced the cause with enthusiasm and creativity, according to Pilversack. And, he says, the dedication of individual landowners has made an astonishing difference in the health and quality of the ecosystem. “The properties bordering the lakefront can be a significant help in filtering runoff water just before it enters the lake,” Pilversack says. For homeowners ready to start implementing buffer landscaping techniques, SMLA offers a number of educational resources that can be downloaded from its website. The organization also suggests these basic tips: n Start small if you have limited time or budget. Plant as much buffer next to the water as possible and in subsequent years add more plantings to lengthen or widen your buffer landscape. n Choose plants for your plan that include as many native species as possible. They do well in local soils and conditions, and they also attract wildlife. n Select a variety of trees, shrubs, ground covers and flowering perennials. Add visual interest with a mixture of heights and colors. n Space your plantings to allow plenty of room for growth to mature size. Crowded plantings look good at first but often do not survive over time. Photo: SMLA Buffer Landscape Committee

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“There is also less need for fertilizer and insecticides, thus less cost and less pollutants going into the lake.” Admittedly, some landowners who worry about obstructing their lake view may have to change their manner of thinking. “My only comment on the ‘view of the water’ is that we need to move away from the mindset that we need a clear view of the water and replace that with having framed views with natural windows throughout the property,” Pilversack says. Over the years, SMLA has taken its buffer campaign to the people. “We promote it by giving talks to groups, writing articles for local publications, holding education events, and by meeting individually with homeowners to review what they might do on their property to 'slow and filter the flow,'” Pilversack says. Rich Barger, current Buffer Landscape Committee chair, points out that there has been a demonstration buffer planting at the Skelton 4-H Educational Conference Center for a number of years. All are encouraged to take a look. Then plant. ✦

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The Smith Mountain Lake Association website features an extensive list of plants, shrubs and trees suitable for riparian landscaping. Consider these suggestions to enhance your lakeside landscape: Black-eyed Susan Columbine Creeping Phlox Lavender Lobelia Milkweed To have a member of the Buffer Landscape Advisory Service Team (BLAST) visit your home to advise and make recommendations on improving the buffering of your lakefront landscape, contact the SMLA office at (540) 719-0690 or email theoffice@smlassociation.org.

Mountain Laurel Purple coneflower Redbud Shasta daisy Sourwood Winterberry Witch hazel Wisteria Yarrow

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Residential and Commercial Art Placement and Interior Design Services Available

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LIVE fitness on the lake

MAKE A

splash

EXERCISE ENTHUSIASTS OFFER ADVICE FOR USING THE WATER BY J ERRY HALE

nyone who exercises regularly expects to get wet during his or her workout—“sweat wet,” that is. But those looking to add novelty to their exercise routines (and who have access to a lake, pond or pool) can employ moves on or in the water for a fresh, cooling dimension that also puts new groups of muscles to work balancing and overcoming water resistance.

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Photo: Jerry Hale

KAYAKERS SWEAR BY THE COMBINED THERAPY AND EXERCISE THEY GAIN FROM SKIMMING ALONG THE SURFACE IN A HIGHLY MANEUVERABLE PADDLE OR PEDDLE CRAFT. 8 0

For those with lake, pond or even pool access, the stand-up paddleboard—“SUP” to the user community—is a quality workout in itself. SUPs also offer a fun and challenging dimension to yoga. Being on top of an unstable platform forces your entire body into the “balancing act” required. Technique-wise, a squirmy SUP will let you know right away if your weight distribution is amiss. With a floating surface as your exercise mat, there’s less room for error. So if you feel like you’ve pretty well mastered your land-based yoga routine, nailing downward dog, three-legged dog, split cat or even easy seated posture on a paddleboard provides a new challenge. When SUP exercisers do fall, they have little choice but to get back up and give it another go. Beyond that, water lapping against the board adds calming aspects of sight and sound, while a swim when the workout is over contributes another relaxing and refreshing dimension. Fans of SUP yoga also note that standing on a paddleboard provides a nifty perspective of both the water and the horizon. Some liken it to “walking on water,” and say the possibility of falling off helps achieve focus on themselves and their poses. Glenda Wynne, yoga instructor and co-owner of a VitaZen, a yoga studio and health supplements store in Hardy, is an SUP instruction convert. For the past two summers, she’s led paddleboard yoga classes offered by Franklin County Parks and Recreation. “Yoga is most effective when students are in touch with themselves and nature,” Wynne says. “By adding the need to balance on an unstable surface to the sights and sounds of the lake, beach and surrounding woods, you create a whole new center for the exercise.” Of course, just paddling your board in and of itself is a good workout for arms, shoulders, torso and knees. You can develop a course that suits your initial exercise goals, and then gradually increase the distance or the pace to kick it up a notch. Bonus benefits of an early morning paddle include enjoyment of a serene lake, fresh air, sunshine and wildlife. Kayakers also swear by the combined therapy and exercise they gain from skimming along the surface in a highly maneuverable paddle or peddle craft. One SML enthusiast, who heads out in her peddle-style kayak most weather-permitting days, compares it to a cycling workout—without the stress of hills and danger from passing traffic. Then there’s SML’s Wendy Lewis, 70, who has a twice-weekly appointment with a gaggle of other kayakers from coves near marker R22. “We paddle at a fairly leisurely pace, and typically stay out about 2½ hours,” Lewis says. “We love starting the day early and communing with nature and each other. That's why we call our group the Ky-Yakers. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

“Leaving in the early morning, we see such wildlife like great blues, various types of ducks, turtles, owls and occasionally some eagles and otters. We also pick up any trash that will fit in our kayaks." Novelty is an important aspect of keeping exercisers engaged over periods long enough to realize the beneficial effect. Water aerobics, like SUP yoga, brings exercisers a fresh new wet dimension that can rejuvenate the exercise regime. Olympic synchronized swimming judge Kris Olson started teaching water aerobics back in 1980 when the Fairfax County Park Authority opened a new pool and wanted to attract members of the area’s elder population. Now she leads a neighborhood class through hour-long water aerobics routines twice a week at the Waverly subdivision on the shores of Smith Mountain Lake, during the warm water months. “The water’s resistance is a forgiving replacement for weights, so there’s less chance of a strain,” Olson says. “You can exercise on warm days without overheating, and it’s particularly good for rehab from injuries and joint surgery. “We alternate deep-water exercise in the lake and shallowwater routines in the neighborhood pool, but most participants seem to prefer being in the lake when the weather cooperates.” Olson and her classmates wear float belts for safety and stability. They also use hand-held foam barbells for a number of the exercises to increase resistance. Swimming is another good exercise option for those who want to utilize the water for fitness. It’s a full-body workout that builds lung capacity, muscle stamina and flexibility and is especially well suited to rehabilitation exercise because of the support water provides. Swimmers most typically opt for laps in a pool, but SML is definitely an option. One can define a course to lap between docks, for example, which has been a long-time routine for Vicki Gardner, a Goodview resident and executive director of the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce. “I’m finally back swimming in the water I love,” says Gardner, who was critically injured in August 2015 and had to take a break from swimming, “and will be using water exercise to build my strength and stamina whenever I can.” Since your lake course will not likely be life-guarded, Gardner recommends wearing a flotation belt or unencumbering flotation vest (thin, low-resistance vests are made for wake boarders and available online). It’s also a wise idea to swim with a buddy or have someone available on the dock or shoreline. ✦

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IMPROVE outdoor showers

playful & practical ADD AN OUTDOOR SHOWER TO YOUR LAKE PROPERTY B Y K AT H E R I N E F U LG H U M K N O P F

There’s something nostalgic about showering in the great outdoors, something that brings back memories of summers past. Beach trips, summer camp, rustic cabins at the lake and family camping outings are all experiences that evoke a similar wistful longing for seasons gone by.

Outdoor showers not only satisfy yearnings for summer fun, but also are practical. They provide a spot for gardeners, athletes, kids and guests to clean up before coming into the house— helping keep dirt and soap scum inside to a minimum. They also offer an ideal spot to bathe pets without the mess. Outdoor showers have become a popular home improvement project, so why not consider installing one at your Smith Mountain Lake home? If the design is basic, outdoor showers often can be installed by a handy do-it-yourselfer. The first step is to locate the area 8 2

that works best with your lake lifestyle. Look for a spot near your dock, part-way to the house or adjacent to an exterior door of your home that offers level ground and can easily accommodate plumbing. In the SML area, you must have a plumbing permit to add an outdoor shower, so you may need to enlist the help of a plumber or general contractor. Of course, your shower must drain away from the house and any other outside buildings. You’ll also want to make sure soapy water doesn’t run off into the lake or nearby landscaping. Start with a deep layer of gravel to promote good drainage and choose S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

OUTDOOR SHOWERS ARE PERFECT FOR SO MANY REASONS, BUT PRIMARILY BECAUSE THEY PROVIDE A PRACTICAL AND PLAYFUL ALTERNATIVE TO THE BATHING EXPERIENCE. a water-resistant material such as stone, concrete or specially treated wood to create a level, stable base. Another popular look is to use smooth rock as the base. Top it with large stepping stones or a floor mat made of a water-resistant wood to give the area a relaxing, spa-like vibe. Placing smooth stone or stone pavers made specifically for wet areas around or in front of the shower area also enhances the look and helps with water absorption. Go a step further and create a walkway to the house to keep feet [relatively] clean. Of course, privacy is critical when customizing your outdoor shower, so consider how youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll surround the structure. You could go super fancy and build a form that mimics high-end interior showers, tiled in the latest looks. However, many showers are simpler in nature, built of bamboo or iron poles with curtains hung around them for privacy. If you prefer the look of wood, good choices include cedar, mahogany and teak, which repel water and insects, as well as resist deterioration. Install posts and attach wood slats horizontally on three sides for a custom look. Handles and showerheads come in a variety of finishes and colors, so consider choosing something beyond basic shiny chrome. Take a look at brushed nickel, pewter, brushed bronze, oil-rubbed bronze and hammered copper to add a custom look to your shower. You may also want to consider placing a small bench or chair outside the shower area for sitting to remove shoes or clothing. If the area is covered, a metal or painted bookcase or table is also a nice addition on which to stack clean towels and other necessities. Iron hooks can be attached to the wooden panels, perfect for hanging wet bathing suits and sweaty athletic gear. Hooks are a fun way to personalize your shower, too. Look for designs that complement your theme such as boats, flip flops or fish. Embellish even further with a soap dish that matches the decor. Add a back brush or loofah hung on a hook to scrub away garden dirt or muddy feet. Proper maintenance is key for outdoor showers at Smith Mountain Lake. Pipes should be drained before the first freeze to prevent them bursting during the winter. Whatever your shower base, it will benefit from an occasional rinse of vinegar and water to keep it clean and fresh. The showerhead will need cleaning, as well, to remove minerals and insects. Fill a baggie with white vinegar and use a rubber band to affix it to the shower neck, making sure the showerhead is completely submerged. Allow it to soak overnight and remove for a sparkling clean result. Outdoor showers are perfect for so many reasons, but primarily because they provide a practical and playful alternative to the bathing experience. Consider building one this summer at the lake. You will take pleasure in the process and thank yourself every time you turn on the shower. â&#x153;Ś smlhomemaga zine .com 83

SOLD ON THE VIEW

BY ANDIE GIBSON Photography by Michael Patch

Meg Head has a little advice for house hunters at Smith Mountain Lake: Don’t rule out a property just because the online listing lacks “wow factor.” Meg and her husband, David, nearly missed out on their dream lake property after blowing off a listing with sub-par photography. “We quietly started looking at properties in 2015 just to get our feet wet because we knew we wanted to retire at the lake,” Meg says. “Our realtor laughed at us because we looked at two condos first. We have four kids, two dogs and a cat.” The Lynchburg couple continued to search for a single-family home to match their long list of wants and needs and soon came across a website listing that sounded promising. It was for a home in the Franklin County community of Park Place, but Meg dismissed it after scanning through the photos, which were dull and presented in no particular order. 84

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WHEN THE HEADS GOT A TOUR OF THE 5,900-SQUARE-FOOT HOME, IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT. WHILE THEY INITIALLY THOUGHT THEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;D PREFER LIVING IN A QUIET COVE, THEY WERE CAPTIVATED BY THE BREATHTAKING VIEW FROM THIS HOME ON THE MAIN CHANNEL

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“They made the house look chopped up, and just didn’t do it justice,” she says. “But then we had friends drive by here by boat and they said, ‘Oh, my gosh, this is it. You have to see this view.’ So another thing we learned about house hunting here is it’s always smart to view the house by water.” When the Heads got a tour of the 5,900-square-foot home, it was love at first sight. While they initially thought they’d prefer living in a quiet cove, they were captivated by the breathtaking view from this home on the main channel, just around the bend from SML Community Park. A view that includes long water and a wide shot of Smith Mountain is visible from nearly every room in the house. The Heads purchased the home, which was built in 2007, in October 2015 with plans to use it on the weekends while renovating it to their personal taste. Three of the couple’s four children—ages 18 to 23—live on their own and when the youngest heads to college in the fall, Meg and David say they’ll begin making plans to make SML their permanent home. The couple brought in Moyanne Harding of Lynchburg-based Interiors by Moyanne to help with the renovations to the property, which features six bedrooms and four-and-ahalf bathrooms on three floors. One of the first orders of business was to sand and stain the hardwood floors, which had an unappealing orange tone, a darker color to provide a consistent look throughout the main level. They also painted the entire interior. A completely remodeled, crisp white kitchen with small breakfast nook overlooks the lake and is where the family spends a good deal of time, David says. During the renovation the Heads added new counters, cabinets and appliances. They also reduced the size of the huge marble island to seven feet by seven feet so it wouldn’t encroach as much on the adjacent living area. The change allowed for three additional bar stools to be added. 8 6

The Heads reduced the size of the huge marble island to seven feet by seven feet so it wouldn’t encroach as much on the adjacent living area. The change allowed for three additional bar stools to be added.

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A completely remodeled, crisp white kitchen with small breakfast nook overlooks the lake and is where the family spends a good deal of time. smlhomemaga zine .com 87

“It really opened the living area, which is nice because now everyone doesn’t necessarily congregate in the kitchen,” David says. “But when they do, there’s plenty of room for them to sit.” Off the kitchen is a large walk-in pantry, powder room and access to the upper level and three-car garage. To keep it simple and complement the beauty of the outdoors, Meg says she worked with Moyanne to decorate using neutral beiges, blues, grays and whites with splashes of bright pink. There are two facing couches plus casual chairs and leather-covered stools for ample seating. Meg says she consciously opted to forgo curtains and blinds on the abundant windows so as not to obstruct the view. “My home in Lynchburg is really formal, but I wanted this house to be light and casual,” she says. “I’m usually a huge curtain person, but this view is way prettier than anything we could put up there.” 8 8

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For the formal dining room, Moyanne used wallpaper in a damask pattern and framed it out with molding to provide additional visual interest. The space includes a large table that seats eight and chairs upholstered in a bold pattern of bright blue and white. The main floor also includes the master bedroom suite, which features neutral bedding, a lounging space for the family pets and another amazing lake view. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an alcove with a cream linen sectional that provides a quiet, comfortable spot for reading or napping. In the large master bathroom, wallpaper in a geometric pattern was added and hardware replaced to freshen up the space. Meg enlisted Smith Mountain Lake designer Kris Willard of Interiors by Kris for design assistance on the other two levels, which are used frequently to accommodate family and friends.

The main floor also includes the master bedroom suite, which features neutral bedding, a lounging space for the family pets and another amazing lake view. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an alcove with a cream linen sectional that provides a spot for reading or napping.

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Hanging above the table in the family room is a distinctive chandelier made of wood with an antique gold leaf finish.

“She came in and helped put the finishing touches on everything,” Meg says. Upstairs is a suite that’s perfect for when Meg or David’s parents come to visit. It features a king-sized bed decorated with linens of bright turquoise and green and a small seating area with a couch in coordinating colors complemented by white lacquer tables. There’s a roomy closet and dressers that double as nightstands, a bathroom with large walk-in shower and a small outdoor deck with perhaps the home’s most stunning view. Across the hall is what Meg refers to as the bunk room—a long, narrow space with sloped ceilings, dormer window, cozy reading nook and six single beds, which are occupied frequently in the warmer months by the couple’s collegeage sons and their buddies. “There’s never a weekend without lots and lots of kids here,” Meg says. “We can sleep a lot of guests now. We really wanted to make sure everyone who wanted to come and stay would have a bed.” Three additional bedrooms and two bathrooms can be found on the lower level, which walks out to the lake side of the home. There’s also a warm and inviting family room with a comfortable sectional sofa facing a large television and a big, round table the family uses for working puzzles and playing cards. “We needed a table that would seat six but we didn’t necessarily want to have six chairs there all the time; we knew it would look crowded,” Meg says. “So Kris suggested adding a sideboard below the artwork and moving the two extra chairs on either side. I was skeptical but it looks great, and it just makes the room so much more functional.” Hanging above the table is a distinctive chandelier made of wood with an antique gold leaf finish. “I had admired the chandelier in the past and was so excited when Kris said she thought it would work over the table,” Meg says. “I loved that it was wood and had a modern feel to it.” Much of the artwork throughout the home is by local artists and Meg touts Southern Provisions Company in Lynchburg as the source of many of the home’s distinctive accessories. She also worked with them to create many of the handmade pillows, which are expertly

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Overlooking the yard, dock and lake, the veranda includes a rattan u-shaped couch covered with durable outdoor fabric in a neutral beige and a teak dining table that comfortably seats six.

mixed and matched indoors and out with a variety of colors, patterns and textures. The outdoor living areas are plentiful at the Head home, too. There’s a small seating area off the lower-level family room and, upstairs, a spacious covered veranda the couple uses as an extension of their living room. Overlooking the yard, dock and lake, the veranda includes a rattan u-shaped couch covered with durable outdoor fabric in a neutral beige and a teak dining table that comfortably seats six. “We love sitting out here and watching all the activity, all the boat traffic,” Meg says. “But it’s pretty in the morning, too, when everything is quiet.” She says friends and family also enjoy the home’s gently sloped lot and relatively short walk to the dock, which gets used extensively in the warmer months. The dock includes two chaise lounges with a 92

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large umbrella for shade and a separate seating area with neutral furniture accented with pillows in various shades of blue and teal. The dock’s boathouse stores towels, life jackets and other lake necessities, as well as a mini fridge for drinks and snacks. A bar top becomes accessible when the rollup-door is opened, with two stools providing additional seating. “We usually plant ourselves on the dock after breakfast and will bring snacks and just spend the whole day down there,” Meg says. On the side of the home is a small patio the couple uses as outdoor grill space. There’s also a separate room with tile flooring off the garage that the previous owners used for potting and storing garden supplies. The Heads plan to eventually convert it to private office space for David who often works from home. Meg and David say other aspects of the home they’ve come to appreciate are its relatively low maintenance requirements and its location in Park Place. “This is a tight-knit community where people live year-round,” David says. “The neighbors are very friendly and inclusive. There’s an email list where they send out updates and they have social gatherings. We’re looking forward to getting more involved as we spend more time at the lake.” ✦

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DESIGN bathroom renovation ideas

ready, set, remodel!

ADD BEAUTY AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME WITH A BATHROOM RENOVATION

BY K I M B E R LY J . DA L F E R E S

A spa-like oasis. Tranquil retreat. Your own private getaway. These are phrases that often come to mind when pondering a dream bathroom. But if your bathroom reality conjures descriptions such as “old and battered,” “mold-ridden” or “out-ofdate,” fear not. There are abundant options available for turning that not-so-serene bathroom into the retreat you crave. According to the annual cost vs. value report compiled by Remodeling magazine, homeowners in Virginia’s South Atlantic region can expect to recoup a whopping 65.7 percent of the costs associated with a bathroom remodel. Of course, bathroom remodeling costs can vary widely, but if you spend $10,000 you can expect to recover about $6,500 in added home value. It’s no wonder that bathroom renovations remain the most popular home remodeling project, according to the National Association of Home Builders. 94

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Pre-renovation considerations

Homeowners should contemplate how a bathroom is utilized before undertaking a full remodel. For example, if a large lake house accommodates guests often, a spare bathroom may need a larger shower, but not necessarily a spa tub. However, for a single-family home, the addition of an oversized tub could come in handy for a family with small children. Other remodeling issues to consider include: Counter height. The new standard for cabinet counter height is 36 inches (compared to 30 inches in 1980). How could this new cabinet height impact mirrors or lighting in your remodeled bathroom? Designing for safety. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re entering your boomer years and plan to stay in your home for the next decade or more, consider adding safety options to your bathroom such as grab bars in the shower. To this end you might also want to consider a zero-threshold shower, which reduces the risk of tripping. Shower organization. Inset niches in shower walls can help tame the clutter and provide a home for all those bottles of soap, shampoo and conditioner currently lining your shower floor. Many showers are now designed with two or more niches to accommodate all the items that help keep the whole family looking and smelling great. Keep holders handy. Be sure to map out early your best options for placement of towel rings, bars and hooks, as well as the toilet paper holder. These small design elements are often relegated to afterthought status but can very much impact the functionality of a bathroom design. Who wants to walk across a bathroom, dripping wet, to retrieve a towel because you forgot to include wall space for a hook next to the shower door? Before starting any renovation, homeowners should set a budget range and plan for contingencies. Anyone whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s watched HGTV knows that tearing up a bathroom can reveal a number of unexpected issues. Discovering mold and wood rot behind bathroom drywall is not unusual. Cost overruns also are common in bathroom remodeling when plumbing must be relocated. Most general contractors recommend homeowners be prepared for 15-20 percent overruns when undertaking a major bathroom remodel. smlhomemaga zine .com 95

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trending in 2017?

Bathroom styles and materials are as varied as the home designs of today. Modern, industrial, traditional, shabby chic, bright colors and monochromatic designs are all popular choices. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always a good idea to not veer too far afield from the overall design of your home. An ultra-modern bathroom can look a bit out of place in a traditional Colonial. However, because the bathroom is often one of the smallest rooms, homeowners may be willing to experiment more with design elements and patterns. Some of the hot bathroom design trends right now include: In touch with nature. The popularity of cool blues and greens in the bathroom reflects the current trend toward natural serenity. This trend includes the incorporation of wood into bathroom design, a previous non-starter in the bathroom. New methods for sealing and treating wood now allow for use in moisture-laden areas. 9 6

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Several showerheads. Multiple sprays and showerheads continue to be a sought-after design element for remodeled showers. Remember, additional showerheads could also equate to additional plumbing needs and costs. Improved storage options.

Remodelers are eager for storage systems that tame the under-thecounter clutter that can accumulate in a bathroom cabinet. Popular options today include pull-out shelves and removable bins. Furniture-like cabinetry. Similar to the trend in kitchen design, bathroom cabinets are now being designed to resemble pieces of furniture. Or, pieces of furniture, such as an old dresser, are being refurbished and repurposed as bathroom cabinets. Big tile. Many homeowners have begun to move away from the small mosaic tile look and more toward larger tiles in neutral colors or patterns. One advantage to this trend includes fewer grout lines to clean. ✦

Tips for working with a small budget Not all bathroom updates have to be full-scale, big-budget remodels. There are certainly ways to update a bathroom over a weekend without busting the bank account. Budgetfriendly bathroom updates can include all or just a few of the following: n Replace the shower curtain and/or bath mat. n Purchase a new set of towels. n Update light fixtures or add recessed lighting. n Replace the sink faucet, while keeping in mind how it will look compared to hardware for the shower, tub and toilet. n Update the paint color. Semi-gloss paint is often recommended for bathrooms but does a poor job of covering wall imperfections; be prepared to do a bit of drywall patching and repair. Sherwin Williams’ paint color for 2017 is “Poised Taupe,” a gray with brown undertones that could be a jumping-off point for a beautiful new bathroom look.

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IMPROVE common summer ailments

SUMMER SAFETY

BE PREPARED FOR WHAT AILS YOU BY K I M B E R LY J . DA L F E R E S AH, SUMMERTIME! As the Smith Mountain Lake air warms and the skies above clear to brilliant blue, everyone has visions of sunny months ahead filled with outdoor activities. But whether you’re hitting the water for an epic wakeboard run or just floating in a quiet cove, a variety of hazards lurk that can sideline plans for fun and relaxation. However, you can mitigate summer fun suckers by being prepared for some of the season’s the most common ailments and taking a few preventive measures. Be the hero in your family by following these tips to help keep the good times rolling at Smith Mountain Lake. SYMPTOMS OF AN ALLERGIC REACTION Seek immediate emergency medical care if someone is stung by any insect and exhibits any of these reactions: Trouble breathing Hives that appear as a red, itchy rash and spread to areas beyond the sting Swelling of the face, throat or mouth tissue Wheezing or trouble swallowing Restlessness and anxiety Rapid pulse Dizziness or a sharp drop in blood pressure

Source: webmd.com 9 8

Be prepared

Beware the bugs!

Well-equipped first-aid kits are a must-have in everyone’s home, as well as in cars and boats. Before the start of summer merriment, the American Red Cross recommends a review of first-aid kit inventories to ensure that all the bandages and other first-aid necessities are up to date (see sidebar on next page). Additional items to consider having readily available in the house and on the dock include ice packs (for those pesky sprains from too much hiking or wakeboarding), over-thecounter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, an antihistamine (such as Benadryl) for mild allergies that produce runny noses and itchy eyes, and calamine lotion for nuisances such as bug bites and rashes. It’s also a good idea to stock up on items to combat the effects of overindulging (like after that third hot dog at the 4th of July festivities), including ginger ale, peppermint tea, antacids and sodium bicarbonate (found in Alka-Seltzer).

We humans are not the only ones who enjoy the great outdoors. Warmer months encourage the breeding and swarming of insects such as mosquitos, bees and ticks. Regarding the vampires of the insect world—mosquitos—the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a multi-effort approach to include wearing long-sleeved pants and shirts when outdoors and utilization of mosquito repellents. Bee stings are another common summer insect-related malady. To treat minor stings with no allergic reaction, the Mayo Clinic recommends using tweezers to remove the stinger as soon as possible, washing the area and applying a cold compress, then treating with cortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce itching. Note that some people can be highly allergic to insect stings and multiple stings increase the chances of a severe allergic reaction. Make sure you know the location of the closest medical care facility before an emergency happens, S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

FIRST-AID ESSENTIALS

The American Red Cross recommends the following first-aid kit contents: 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches) 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes) 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch) 5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram) 5 antiseptic wipe packets 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each) 1 blanket (space blanket) 1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve) 1 instant cold compress 2 pair of non-latex gloves (size: large) 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each) Scissors 1 roller bandage (3 inches wide) 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide) 5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches) 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches) Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass) 2 triangular bandages Tweezers

For more tips, visit redcross.org.

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A fun-filled day out on the water can turn into a not-so-comfortable evening if the right precautions aren’t taken. YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT, at least once.

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Photos by Dongsoo Choi

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especially if you are vacationing at Smith Mountain Lake and aren’t particularly familiar with the region. During an emergency, time is critical; when in doubt, it’s always wise to call 911. Too much fun in the sun

A healthy amount of time spent in the sunlight can help the absorption of vitamin D—sometimes called the “sunshine vitamin.” Sufficient vitamin D is an important component of developing and maintaining strong, healthy bones, and sunlight delivers this powerful nutrient. However, overexposure to the sun’s rays without proper protection will damage skin and can produce red, irritated swelling commonly known as a sunburn. A fun-filled day out on the water can turn into a not-so-comfortable evening if the right precautions aren’t taken. Today’s sunscreens offer necessary protection and enable us to stay outside for extended periods of time. Dermatologists recommend using a broad spectrum sunblock with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Of utmost importance is the reapplication of sunblock. Reapply at least once an hour because most sunblocks can easily wear or wash off—particularly important if you’re in and out of the lake. And don’t forget to apply to often-overlooked body parts that are susceptible to sunburns such as feet, the back of your neck and ears, and the bridge of your nose. If outside activities result in overexposure to sunlight, the Skin Care Foundation recommends a few things to relieve the pain of a sunburn: n If you’re near a cold pool or the lake, take a quick dip to cool your skin, but only for a few seconds so you don’t prolong your exposure. Then cover up and get out of the sun immediately; n While skin is still damp, use a gentle moisturizing lotion (but not petroleum or oil-based ointments, which may trap the heat and make the burn worse); n At the first sign of sunburn, taking a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, naproxen or S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

aspirin, can help with discomfort and inflammation; n Burns draw fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body, so you may become dehydrated. It’s important to rehydrate by drinking extra liquids, including water and sports drinks. n Seek medical help if you or anyone in your group has severe blistering over a large portion of the body, fever and chills, or is woozy or confused. Finally, always keep in mind that sunny days spent enjoying Smith Mountain Lake—relaxing on a dock, skiing, paddleboarding—can feel deceptively cool and breezy. Frolicking in the water is not the same as consuming good ol’ H2O. To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of water throughout the day. A cooler filled with bottled water or a pitcher filled with ice, water, and sliced fruit will entice you, your friends, and family to drink up. Follow these tips and enjoy a safe and healthy summer season at SML! ✦

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THE ADDITION OF

SOMETHING GREAT BY RYA N TI P P S P h oto g ra p hy by C ra i g S h a f f e r

It’s no surprise that the white carpet in Floyd Merryman’s Smith Mountain Lake home was the first thing the dog owner replaced when he bought the property. “We closed on this house during October, and the first Thanksgiving we had here, it was pretty nasty weather,” he says. “It was wet. The dogs went outside, and when they came back in on the white carpet, well, it wasn’t white anymore.” Since those early days in 2005, the home has continued a transformation that culminated in adding more than 3,000 square feet and a second garage just a few years ago. “In 2012, I did the addition, which really made the house what it is today,” says Floyd, who lives in a cove in The Water’s Edge.

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hat stands now is an interior styled with exquisite dark hardwoods and venerable white columns, enlivened by skylights in the living room and dining room. Couple that with an exterior that includes a beach, an inviting outdoor kitchen and the splendor of being nestled amid one of SMLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier golf communities, Floyd and his partner Roya Gharavi have a residence they can genuinely call home. Floyd has been exposed to the lake all of his life. In the late 1950s, his grandfather bought 100 acres in Goodviewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beaverdam Creek area in preparation for the damming of the Roanoke and Blackwater rivers to create SML. The property, which they called Merry Acres Farm, would ultimately include a mile of shoreline. 104

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“The thing that kept me coming back to this house was the view—you’re looking right out the main channel—as well as the dock and the beach.” FLOYD MERRYMAN

“All my life, I’ve known about Smith Mountain Lake,” Floyd says. “I can remember as a child going down one summer and wading in the creek, and then the next year, the water was up. Before long, it was probably 50 yards across.” Over the years, he continued to visit the lake, going boating with a friend who had a cabin near Mitchell’s Marina. However, it was in the 1980s, when The Water’s Edge was developed, that the avid golfer decided that he wanted to have a home at the lake. “The golf course was like nothing else around, with the water and the views,” Floyd says. He initially went in on property with his sister and built a house in The Water’s Edge that could be used as a family home. About 15 years later, he decided he wanted a place of his own—as it turned out, his current home, one of the first built in the development, was on the market. “The thing that kept me coming back to this house was the view—you’re looking right out the main channel—as well as the dock and the beach,” he says.

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Yet it’s clear that the house standing today, measuring about 8,000 square feet, bears little resemblance to the one built in 1988 three owners ago. Impressively, from the time Floyd first saw the home, he had a vision for what could be done with it. Much of the main level had been decked out in white carpet and what can generously be called “unattractive” tile. The ceiling had an unflattering pickled finish. Today, dark hardwood floors creep throughout all corners of the home, augmented by wellplaced rugs and walls that are anything but boring white. Brown leather furniture and a stately marble fireplace are among the first things a visitor sees when entering through the front door. Even the pickled ceiling has been turned into a dark brown to tie the main living areas together. From the adjacent kitchen, it’s easy to see through the dining room out to the water. While the kitchen had been remodeled prior to Floyd acquiring the property, he initiated more change to the spacious room, adding cherry cabinets, new granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and dual refrigerators with doors that blend seamlessly with the cabinetry.

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The home’s spacious lower level includes a wraparound bar, game room and abundant Virginia Tech memorabilia and photographs.

As part of the 2012 expansion on the wings of the home, Floyd added a second two-car garage that included a half-stall for his Virginia Tech-themed golf cart. Also at that end of the house is his office, which has an unobstructed view of the lake and is adorned with trophies and other memorabilia. Floyd works at Sonny Merryman Inc., an Evington company his father founded that sells buses and other commercial vehicles and heavy equipment. “I work from home an awful lot because I can do anything here that I can do sitting at my desk at work,” he says. The master bedroom, also on the main floor, is complemented by a jaw-dropping closet, equipped with an island large enough to house rows upon rows of garments. Also off the bedroom are separate his and hers bathrooms, along with elegant tile shower that unites the space. Off the other end of the bedroom is a glassed-in sitting area features one of the home’s best views. 1 0 8

“This was all in my head about what I wanted when I bought this place,” he says. Floyd’s basement runs the length of the house and was expanded by Southern Edge Builders at the same time the main level was renovated. The basement has tall ceilings that give a surprisingly open feel to the lowest level. In one section of the basement, Floyd tore down a wall and had a wrap-around bar installed. Next to that, a game room with a pool table and dart board showcases Virginia Tech athletics through and through. Floyd’s family has deep ties to Tech, with his father being the name behind the school’s Merryman Athletic Facility, which was built in 1998. The game room has one wall painted with the likenesses of Floyd’s card-playing group, including an image of his father. The other walls are packed with Tech memorabilia and photographs. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

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Through that room is an eight-seat theater, which was built directly below the garage addition. The basement also features two bedrooms, one of which has a doorway leading to the outdoor kitchen, which was constructed by Mark Maslow and his team at Southern Landscape Group Inc. in 2010. Southern Landscape removed the old wooden decking and created an outdoor living space that completely changed how Floyd would use the lake side of his home. As Maslow puts it, the goal of the project was to promote functional, fun outdoor living that accentuates the views. “With the gorgeous views of SML, we wanted to capitalize on them and create an environment that would allow him to entertain groups from small to large,” Maslow says. “We designed a natural stone retaining wall, covered tiki bar area, fullservice outdoor kitchen, entertainment patios, pathways to the lake for wheelchair access, extensive landscape plantings and exterior landscape lighting.” The centerpiece of this space is the full kitchen that has bar-top seating for 12 people. There is a high-definition TV, audio speakers, refrigerator, ice maker, grill, storage cabinets and custom granite countertops. “It allows each guest to take advantage of the many amenities you typically enjoy inside a kitchen, but here it is outside and lakefront,” Maslow says. “Whether it is a football game, golf match or presidential debate, you can enjoy it all while staring at the peace and serenity of the lake.” The stone walls were carried throughout the project and tied into column bases for the tiki bar. Pavers for patio surfaces transition into pathways and driveways. It’s clear that the flow of people and traffic was given careful consideration. Certainly not to go unnoticed is that the seating near the bar includes two stadium seats that were once part of Yankee Stadium. The final part of the home—which was in the building’s original layout—is the second story, which is used by visiting family and friends. A large guest bedroom is right off the stairway, and there’s a bonus room that has multiple beds for kids. Floyd added a bathroom onto the guest room to give it more of a suite feel. No detail of the property has escaped Floyd’s influence. The home may not have been built by him, but it channels his vision and his tastes from top to bottom. ✦ 1 1 0

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SAY “I DO” AT HOME tips for throwing a fabulous Smith Mountain Lake at-home wedding B Y L I N D S E Y WAG N O N

Photo: Nicole Colwell Photography

When you’re a bride or groom with a personal connection to Smith Mountain Lake and access to a gorgeous waterfront home, why look elsewhere for the perfect place to say, “I do”? Between the beautiful backdrop of the water and the cozy, intimate atmosphere of being at someone’s house, an at-home lake wedding simply cannot be beat. If you’d love a lake home wedding, or want to encourage a bride or groom you know to take advantage of an at-home opportunity, consider these planning tips. smlhomemaga zine .com 111

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Before you launch a master plan for a barefoot-on-the-beach ceremony, there are a few key details to think through when you’re planning an at-home wedding at SML. Because your choice location probably isn’t built for largescale hospitality, you’ll have to get these squared away before you can move on with other more exciting aspects of your to-do list. The guest list

We know you can’t wait for all your loved ones to come together to celebrate your big day, but all those names can really add up. Besides immediate family, there are out-of-town friends, college roommates, co-workers, extended family and more you would like to invite. Take some time to process your guest list to make sure the lake home you’re hoping to utilize can handle the final count. Also be sure to run the list by parents of the bride and groom in case they are expecting to add a few names of their own. Parking

Photo: Nicole Colwell Photography

A four-car lot can be seriously deficient for a 100-plus guest list, but there are ways to make sure parking isn’t a major problem on your wedding day. Most Smith Mountain Lake communities have ample parking once you factor in stretches of shoulder space and grassy areas. Many also have public parking areas close enough for walking or golf cart escorts to and from the venue. Worried the neighbors will complain? Chances are, if you or the homeowners give them a kind warning, they’ll be excited enough about a wedding in the neighborhood to forgive some extra traffic for one day. If you have guests who live at the lake and are able to boat over, that can free up some car parking spaces (assuming there is ample docking available). Another idea is to organize a boat chauffeur service where guests park at a public boat launch and a friend or neighbor shuttles them by boat to and from the wedding venue. What about the weather?

Photo: Nicole Colwell Photography

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Since an at-home wedding lends to spending most of the time outdoors, you’ll want to think through a rainy-day alternative right from the start. S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 1 7

THE FUN PART

Now that you’re confident an at-home lake wedding will work for you, it’s time to plan the special ceremony and reception you’ve dreamed of since you were a kid. Sentimental ceremony

Photo: Taylor Made Photography

Most backyards are large enough to accommodate an elegant white tent, and rental companies can help you choose the proper size. With some companies, you may be able to wait until a few weeks before the big day to request the tent rental, giving you the option to check the weather before paying for that rental. However, if your date is during peak wedding season (late spring through early fall), you may not want to run the risk of a low tent supply when you really need it. Another perfectly good Plan B is to keep things inside. If the house has a charming foyer or elegant staircase, either could work well for a ceremony. Allowing guests to mingle in any of the main living areas is a great alternative for an indoor reception.

Smith Mountain Lake homes are made for water views, so start by finding the best ones on the property. Whether it’s a deck facing Smith Mountain, a quaint grove of trees or an open field backed by water, the ceremony should take place wherever the most picturesque backdrop can be found. Don’t be afraid to get creative with guest seating, too. In lieu of standard folding chairs, opt for benches, hay bales or tasteful patio furniture. After all, your non-traditional wedding location lends to atypical arrangements. As for the ceremony itself, the at-home vibe already gives

it a sentimental feel. Consider keeping it simple, yet sweet by involving family and friends in the program and avoiding a complicated production. Relaxed reception

In the backyard of a gorgeous lake house, guests will feel like you’ve invited them over for a casual evening—no matter how formally everyone is dressed. Let them spread out and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. Pick a place you like for the band or DJ, dance floor, and cake cutting and let guests drink, eat and take in the views from decks, patios, the dock, fire pit or pool area. While a sit-down dinner can work well if the house or yard is spacious enough for tables and chairs, it’s likely wiser to opt for light refreshments, heavy horsd’oeuvres or a buffet, which is easier to pull off in a house or yard.

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ADVERTISER index Photo: Taylor Made Photography

Photo: Taylor Made Photography

Savor Smith Mountain Lake

You may already know all there is to love about Smith Mountain Lake, but chances are many of your guests will be experiencing its charms for the first time. Let the lake help you host the best wedding your loved ones have ever attended by incorporating it into as much of the celebration as possible. Give the tourist treatment

Smith Mountain Lake brides and grooms love to show guests their beloved lake in the days just before and after their wedding celebration. Create a tourism itinerary of the main places you’d love your out-of-town friends and family to see during their stay. Gather maps, brochures and ideas by stopping by the Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plaza. Use them to create a welcome bag, which can be enhanced with handy gifts like sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles and snacks for boating and sightseeing. Let everyone take the leap

During the reception, let guests—especially kids— don swimsuits and celebrate in true SML style with swimming and floating. Let your loved ones know swimming will be allowed during the reception and provide towels and signs to the appropriate changing area for the best post-ceremony entertainment they could ask for. Consider hiring a lifeguard or two from a nearby community pool so that parents can continue to enjoy the party while children swim. Life jackets are a must! Ask friends and neighbors to borrow them in a variety of sizes so everyone finds the perfect fit. Schedule your own lake time

As a busy bride or groom, the last thing you may be thinking about is stopping to enjoy the lake for yourself. You may have grown up here or visit often, but you’ll want your wedding memories to be of more than just the big event. Schedule some time to get out on the boat, ride jet skis or relax on the dock. Create lake wedding memories you’ll want to repeat for anniversaries to come. ✦ Discover vast resources for local caterers, florists, photographers and more via the SML Regional Chamber’s website at visitsmithmountainlake.com. Thanks to David and Valerie Rasmussen and Riley and Ashley Hodges for sharing their wedding photos with HOME magazine. 114

Ayers Financial Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Barbara Brooks, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Bayside Marina. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Berkshire Hathaway-Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate. . . . . . 73 Brandon Oaks (Virginia Lutheran Homes, Inc.). . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Capps Home Building Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Centra. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 CLC, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Closet Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Construction Marketing LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Dana Montgomery, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Debbie Shelton, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Decorating Den Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 F&S Four Seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Fink's Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Glenda McDaniel, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Grand Home Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 GroundScapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 HomeTown Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Interiors by Moyanne. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Jada Turner, Realtor.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Lake Retreat Properties, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 M. 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