Smith Mountain Lake Home Magazine 2020

HOME SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

design ✦ improve ✦ garden ✦ live

all about the

VIEW

tour 4 unique lakeside retreats GET GROWING container gardens native plants

OUTDOOR FUN dock accessories lawn games

DESIGN TRENDS flooring updates upscale downsizing

ANNUAL ISSUE 2020

2

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

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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-Doo watercraft in Southwest Virginia, Webster Marine offers new and pre-owned boat and Sea-Doo watercraft sales, as well as service, parts, accessories and slip rentals. Conveniently located next to Halesford Bridge, stop by and visit us today.

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We’re passionate about quality, value, and customer service; you’ll find us with you every step of the way. Thanks to thorough planning and accurate estimating, our results are consistently on time and within budget. Since 2003, our experience in the Roanoke Valley and Smith Mountain Lake area encompasses a diverse portfolio of residential and commercial projects. TBS can build anything you have in mind, bringing your dreams to life with skilled craftsmen and quality materials.

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engaged IN LIFE

We’re just getting started!

With enhanced services and amenities, expanded walking trails, new lakeside garden homes and diverse opportunities for enjoyment, The Summit Life Plan community makes getting the most out of life easy! Offering you customizable and maintenance-free homes, plus priority access to healthcare right on campus – life at The Summit means peace of mind.

Fill your day with a variety of activities on and off campus, (four golf courses nearby!) or sit back and relax in your new home...the choice is yours.

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It’s your vision. With attention to detail, dependable maintenance and a commitment to quality, we strive to meet that vision.

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CONTENTS Smith Mountain Lake HOME 2020

26

54

80 features

26

80

BY PERRY PAYNE MILLNER

BY RYAN TIPPS

54

96

BY SLOANE LUCAS

BY CHUCK TAYLOR

64

104

BY NOELLE MILAM

BY CHRISTINA MOORE

AN UPSCALE DOWNSIZE Penthouse condo makes a perfect home for Moneta resident

COOL CONTAINERS Gardening in pots of all sizes for flowers and more

A TALE OF TWO TOWNHOMES Side-by-side friends revamp Waters’ Edge homes with unique aesthetics

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK HOME Magazine

FROM THE GROUND UP How one couple created the custom home of their dreams

READY TO RENT? Things to know about offering your home as a rental property

ULTIMATE OUTDOOR SPACES Enhance your exteriors with beautiful, functional elements

Cover photo by Michael Patch at the home of Peggy Balla.

Interior design: R Titus Designs, rtitusdesigns.com.

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Sm it h Mount a i n L ake H O M E 2020

DESIGN

21

42 FLOORING OPTIONS

Learn what’s hot underfoot

BY CAROL J. ALEXANDER

93 WICKER WONDERS

Incorporate this timeless element

BY TAYLOR HORVATH

110 LOOKS YOU’LL LOVE

Top trends in the design world

BY ERICA JACKSON CURRAN

IMPROVE

110

47 CLEANING TIPS

Your home will sparkle from top to bottom

BY JANE RENNYSON

61 DOWN AT THE DOCK

Tech makes dock life easier

BY JERRY HALE

GARDEN

21 BIRDS, BEES AND BUTTERFLIES

Plant a garden for pollinators

BY BECKY CALVERT

47

24 NATIVE FLOWERING SHRUBS

Incorporate plants local to our area

BY MEGAN JANSSEN

90 MULCH MATTERS

Good mulching practices make the most of lakeside landscapes

BY RORY RHODES

LIVE

38 BEST-EVER BRUNCH

Recipes for easy entertaining

BY MARSHA GALE

50 CREATIVE COMMUNITY

Embrace your inner artist at SML

BY PAULA PETERS CHAMBERS

76 SHOPPING VINTAGE

Your guide to second-hand finds

BY MARISSA HERMANSON

100 LAWN GAMES

Ideas for old-school outdoor fun

BY CHRISTY RIPPEL

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EDITOR’S note

PEOPLE CHOOSE TO CALL SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE “HOME” UNDER A VARIETY OF CIRCUMSTANCES— LIVING HERE FULLTIME, ENJOYING REGULAR WEEKEND GETAWAYS, OR SNEAKING AWAY FOR AN OCCASIONAL RETREAT.

People choose to call Smith Mountain Lake “home” under a variety of circumstances— living here full-time, enjoying regular weekend getaways, or sneaking away for an occasional retreat. Though circumstances vary, the reasons, not so much: unmatched natural beauty and great quality of life. In this issue of HOME, we’re thrilled to introduce you to several residents who share what calling Smith Mountain Lake “home” means to them—whether it’s a ground-up custom plan, an upscale downsize, or even friends who ended up purchasing side-by-side vacation homes, each with a different aesthetic. In sharing these stories, we hope that these residents’ ideas and choices help inspire you to make the most of the place you call home.

We also show you ways to address unique issues that come with this beautiful terrain, like how to manage and maximize lots sloping down to the lake, and the many ways to expand outdoor living spaces. And while we’re outside, we explore ways to enhance the area’s natural beauty. Planting to attract wildlife is even more beneficial than you may know, and we’ll give you tips on precisely what to plant to have birds, bees and butterflies flocking to your yard.

We also take a peek at interior looks we love for 2020, including trends in flooring. But you know what they say about all work and no play; it’s important to have fun, too. Brush up on the rules of old-school lawn games and learn a few new ones for some good unplugged fun. And learn about the many opportunities to tap into the rich creative community here at Smith Mountain Lake, whether it’s painting, singing or woodworking, to help everyone find a way to embrace their inner artist.

Thanks for reading, Meridith Ingram meridith@westwillowpublishing.com

all areaRental listings and request showings at Retreat Properties, LLC Lake RetreatProperties, Properties,Inc. Inc.LakeSearch Lake Retreat

Selling SmithMountain MountainLake Lake over years Selling Smith forfor over 40 35 years

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Search all area listings and request showings at 800-421-6980 • 540-297-6002

Search over 75 lakefront vacation rental homes at Search over 75 lake front vacation rental homes at

not franchised email: sales@lakeretreat.com orPersonalized, contact us to request one.

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www.lakeretreat.com Look for our rental brochure in local businesses

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800-421-6980 • 540-297-6002 www.lakeretreat.com

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

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

HOME SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

Interior Design · Flooring Cabinetry · Lighting · Furniture Decor · Blinds & Shades

2020 ANNUAL EDITION PUBLISHER Julie Pierce EDITOR Meridith Ingram ART DIRECTOR Edwana Coleman

LET’S MAKE YOUR HOME COMPLETE! Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm All other times by appointment only (540) 719-1431 | www.bydesigninteriorsofva.com Serving SML, Southwest & Central VA

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carol J. Alexander Becky Calvert Paula Peters Chambers Erica Jackson Curran Marsha Gale Jerry Hale Marissa Hermanson Taylor Horvath Megan Janssen Sloane Lucas Noelle Milam Perry Payne Millner Christina Moore Jane Rennyson Rory Rhodes Christy Rippel Chuck Taylor Ryan Tipps PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Patch Craig Shaffer GRAPHIC ARTIST Donna Collins OPERATIONS MANAGER Marianne Schatvet ADVERTISING SALES Kirsten Morey Becker Julia Belvin Lisa Bowers 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@westwillowpublishing.com.

To discuss coverage of an event relating to home or garden, please contact Smith Mountain Lake HOME at info@westwillowpublishing.com.

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Expert advice. Stellar selection.

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Indoor and outdoor lighting | Home Décor Shop on-line at:

WilliamsLightingGalleries.com Or visit us at: 1871 Dillard Dr, Salem, VA 24153 I 540-389-9285

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WEST WILLOW PUBLISHING GROUP, LLC (434) 386-5667 westwillowpublishing.com Copyright 2020 by West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from West Willow Publishing Group, LLC. All pictorial material reproduced in this magazine, whether in a produced ad or by itself, has been accepted on the condition that it is with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer or the artist concerned. As such, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, West Willow Publishing Group, LLC makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ownership or management.

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

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Virginia’s Best Builder Comes to the Lake!

VOTED BEST HOME BUILDER

by Virginia Living Magazine

Virginia Building Solutions is now open for business at Smith Mountain Lake and in Southwest Virginia. We know it is pretty bold to claim that we are Virginia’s best builder, but this is not just a claim, it is an honor we are proud to have earned! Established in 2004, last year VBS was ranked one of the top 13 custom builders in Virginia by Builders’ Digest, and was voted Best Home Builder in Eastern Virginia for the past two years by readers of Virginia Living Magazine.

See how Virginia Building Solutions makes custom building affordable. Visit our model home/ design center two miles from Rocky Mount on North 220.

WINNER, HOME OF THE YEAR

Courtesy of Google Maps Wirtz

Union Hall Redwood Rocky Mount

www.BestVaBuilder.com direct: 540-445-HOME

Virginia Building Solutions listened to our ideas and designed the perfect home for us! Their quality of work New Design and Model Home Center and attention to detail was Toll Free: (855) 870-4663 (HOME) excellent. It was the best building Email: info@vabuildingsolutions.com decision we have ever made.

-Blake and Pamela Scott 18210 Virgil H Goode Hwy, Rocky Mount, VA 24151

GARDEN pollinators

planting for

the birds and the bees B Y B E C K Y C A LV E R T

With recent declines in pollinator populations, more gardeners are taking care to plant items that attract and sustain these essential creatures. Over 75 percent of the world’s flowering plants depend on pollination to reproduce, making it as important as sunlight, soil and water to plants. These plants include up to three quarters of our food sources as well as plant-based medicines we depend on, so in keeping the pollinators fed, we are contributing to keeping ourselves successfully sustained as well.

P

ollinators are not just limited to bees, but include butterflies, small mammals, moths, flies, beetles, birds and even bats. Adding plants that attract pollinators means maintaining a healthy biodiversity in your yard which benefits the surrounding area while keeping your yard in bloom throughout the seasons. Thankfully, many of the plants favored by pollinators are native perennials, which means they are fairly low

maintenance once they are established in your garden. Additionally, many of the plants preferred by pollinators are not exactly favorites among the deer population, decreasing the possibility of your yard being an all-you-can-eat deer buffet. Consider planting a buffer of pollinator-attracting shrubs, plants and trees near the shoreline of your lake property instead of grass; this helps with runoff, protecting water quality while preventing erosion and creating activity by pollinators along the shore.

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A welcoming yard

Planting a pollinator garden has a few simple rules: plant in clumps, plant a variety of shapes and colors, and choose plants that flower at different times of the year to offer a variety of nectar and pollen sources. You should also consider a few areas of habitat; some tall grasses or brush piles as well as bare spots of ground are very attractive real estate to various pollinators.

You might also consider adding bird houses around your yard to help create a welcoming habitat. Avoid pesticide use, as that can harm the pollinators. A mix of plantings will attract not just pollinators, but pests as well as their predators, creating a whole little self-contained ecosystem in your yard.

Different pollinators are attracted by different smells and colors. Butterflies prefer red and purple flowers with a faint but fresh odor, while hummingbirds prefer scarlet, orange, red or white tubular shaped flowers with no distinct odor. Bees prefer white, yellow and blue flowers with fresh, mild or pleasant odors.

Flies like green, white or cream flowers with little odor or brown and purple flowers with putrid odors, while bats like dull white, green or purple flowers that emit musty smells at night.

Milkweed is perhaps one of the best known pollinatorattracting plants because it is the sole host plant for the struggling monarch butterfly. Named for the sticky white sap that oozes from the leaves when they are damaged, there are over 100 species of this perennial native to the U.S. and Canada. Three good all-around choices for your garden are common milkweed, swamp milkweed and butterfly weed. Most milkweeds require full sun and will self-seed readily, making them an almost effortless addition to your garden.

There are far more plants to consider beyond milkweed, though, in setting out to attract pollinators, with many of them attracting more than one type of pollinator. Wild indigo, Virginia spiderwort and foxglove are among spring-blooming pollinator feeding plants. Purple coneflowers, yarrow, bee balm, St John’s wort, lobelia, phlox, black-eyed Susans and mountain mint keep pollinators fed in the summer months, while Joe Pye weed, goldenrod and asters bloom into the fall. There are also a number of native shrubs and trees that can be planted to help sustain

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pollinators, including mountain laurel, chokeberries, winterberries, elderberries, spicebush, witch hazel and several varieties of rhododendrons and viburnums.

Of course, there are other plants, even though not native or perennial, that are also popular among pollinators, including sunflowers, cosmos and zinnias, all grown easily from seed. Cosmos and zinnias are a fantastic cut flower, lasting all season in the garden with their colorful blooms. Holy Basil, an Asian relative of the more well known Italian variety, is a wildly popular favorite among bees. A fragrant plant also known as tulsi, Holy Basil is considered a sacred plant by Hindus and is used in a variety of homeopathic remedies, and is also quite lovely as an iced tea.

For the birds

There has been an effort in recent years to attract purple martins to the Smith Mountain Lake area. Migratory birds, martins are the largest member of the swallow family, whose diet consists of insects, particularly flying

Smith Mountain Lake

ones that include stink bugs, Japanese beetles, cicadas, mosquitos and wasps.

The birds winter in South America, coming to North America in late winter/early spring to nest and mate, arriving in Virginia from March to April. They are dependent on humans to create habitat for them east of the Rockies, in a habit that is believed to go back hundreds of years to Native Americans, before European settlers discovered the Americas. Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park have of a small colony of purple martins set up near the Discovery Center in the park where they also offer classes in how to attract the birds to your property.

Supporting pollinators helps keep ourselves and our native world healthy and happy. Adding pollinator-attracting plants to the landscape of your Smith Mountain Lake home works to help preserve the natural beauty of the lake, which is part of what probably attracted most of us to the lake to begin with. âœŚ

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smlhomemaga zine .com 2 3

plant smart, plant local

Native shrubs that thrive at Smith Mountain Lake

BY MEGAN JANSSEN

great rhododendron

✿ A nice option for non-native butterfly bush, which can become invasive, is the American hazelnut (Corylus americana), a multi-stemmed shrub that is host for more than 120 butterfly species and moth caterpillars. And its fruits are loved by large birds like blue jays and woodpeckers.

✿ If you’re looking for big impact, consider great rhododendron (Rhododendrum maximum), also known as Rosebay or Great Laurel, that can become a large shrub—up to 20 feet tall—with showy pale pink or white flowers in large clusters. It blooms in late spring or early summer.

✿ Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica), also

Gardeners are often counseled toward selecting “native plants” in their choice of groundcover, shrubs and landscaping flora. Makes sense, but some of the traditional favorites—crepe myrtle and butterfly bush come to mind—don't qualify since they originated in China. Bummer.

So what are the alternatives?

In the United States, a native plant is one that was naturally found in a particular area before European settlement. These plants are the foundation of a region’s biodiversity, providing essential food sources and shelter for wildlife. To understand the interconnectedness of plants and wildlife, consider this example: It takes over 6,000 caterpillars to feed a single brood of chickadees. Caterpillars thrive in native plants, so without them, that bird population would suffer. And chickadees are not unique: In the United States, 432 species—more than one-third of all birds—eat insects, and could risk local extinction in urban and suburban areas without a plentiful supply. This symbiotic relationship is one we can support with attention to what we grow in our own yards, relying primarily on native plants.

As a bonus for the home gardener, native plants are adapted to local precipitation and soil conditions and thus require less upkeep, helping the environment and saving time, water and money.

American hazelnut

noteable natives

Virginia sweetspire

called Virginia willow, is an arching, mediumsized shrub that grows to 6 feet tall. In late spring to early summer, it has tiny white flowers on 2- to 6-inch arching spikes.

Adding to the wow factor: Its leaves turn bright red and remain on the shrub long into the autumn.

✿ Another favorite is mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) which grows to 10 feet tall and, in late spring to early summer, has flowers that are white to pink in showy clusters.

✿ For more conspicuous blooms, choose Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia), a deciduous medium-sized shrub. Ruby Spice has pink blooms with a delightful fragrance that perfumes your yard and attracts summer insects. An added plus is its long bloom time.

✿ Virginia is home to several native species of holly including American holly (Ilex opaca), inkberry (Ilex glabra), yaupon (Ilex vomitoria), and the deciduous winterberry (Ilex verticillata), a deciduous shrub that produces plentiful berries that last all through the next winter. In spring, thousands of sweet-smelling, miniature white flowers on a holly become magnets for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators providing forage for these critters. Assuming the female plant has a male plant nearby, as the growing season progresses, the pollinated flowers will give rise to berries, which in turn will provide food for birds and other wildlife. Trees and shrubs provide not only nectar, pollen and fruit but also much-needed cover for wildlife including places for birds to build nests.

✿ A native alternative to the popular burning

mountain laurel 2 4

native holly

viburnum Brandywine

bush (Euonymus altus), a prodigious seed producer whose seeds are spread by birds thereby displacing native plants, is the viburnum Brandywine (Viburnum nudum). It has stunning glossy red leaves in the fall and vibrant berries. This native plant gives food and shelter to wildlife and provides a red wow factor in the garden. ✦ S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

TWO AREA TRADITIONS

one beautiful destination

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THREE TIMES CHARMED IN MONETA

the long arm of the lake holds resident close

B Y P E R R Y PAY N E M I L L N E R

Photography by Michael Patch 26

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Smith Mountain Lake resident Peggy Balla and interior designer Robin Titus began their journey together around 2005 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Peggy and her late husband, Bill Golden, brought in an architect for a master bath project in the pool house of their fantastic Mediterranean-style home. Titus was recommended to take on its interior design and the duo’s years-long creative relationship began, sparking a chain of exciting collaborations in a variety of locations to follow. smlhomemaga zine .com 27

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Peggy is a native of Lynchburg; she grew up in Fort Hill and graduated from E.C. Glass High School.

Her undergraduate degree is from Virginia Tech, capped with a nursing degree from University of Virginia. She worked first with the health department in Christiansburg before attending graduate school at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She took a job as executive director of Child Health Investment Partnership (CHIP) in Roanoke where she led the innovative and inclusive program for some years. A decade or so later, now a divorced mother of twin boys, she met Bill Golden—a single father raising twin girls.

Romance began and marriage followed; the couple decided where to settle down. “My husband worked in Durham,” she recalls. “Smith Mountain Lake seemed a good place for us to live.”

They found The Waterfront community in Moneta, a development of Willard Construction of Roanoke Valley, Inc., with 750 acres, 8.5 miles of shoreline, clubhouse, pro shop, state-of-the-art fitness center, and banquet facilities. A bar and lounge overlooks the 18th hole of the community’s PGA Championship Golf Course.

All in at The Waterfront

In 1996, Peggy and Bill moved to the lake full-time, into a townhouse in The Waterfront community.

“The boys were in school,” Peggy explains. “It seemed a good fit for us. Then we got Pinky. With all the stairs, the townhouse didn’t work so well anymore.” The outdoor-loving, half-Airedale,

half-Labrador retriever was the catalyst that set into motion the couple’s purchase of a modern masterpiece estate in the neighborhood on Anchor Lane. The striking home sits on nearly 11 acres with 600 feet of lake frontage. They lived happily there until Bill died in 2010; Peggy stayed on for a few years but ultimately decided to downsize to a more manageable space. “It was just too much to handle by myself,” she says.

She hoped to stay in The Waterfront and crossed her fingers hoping for a rare and much-coveted penthouse unit to hit the market, preferably one with three bedrooms, three baths, plenty of natural light and sweeping lake views. When a penthouse end unit became available, she jumped on it straightaway. She reached out, of course, to her favorite interior designer, and with that call, Robin Titus and Peggy were back in business.

Now based in Chicago by way of Boston, Titus was happy to work again with, as she describes Peggy, her perfect client. “Peggy really is a dream,” the designer says. “She is collaborative and open as repeat clients often are. It makes for a great journey of partnership.” She made a trip out east to check out Peggy’s new digs. Her first impression: “Whoa.

It was very dated, very ‘1970s,’ and a significant downsize for sure” from more than 5100 square feet to just around 2100. She saw the potential though.

“Peggy thought the unit was tiny but I didn’t think so. The vaulted ceilings made the space feel so airy.

And the view was amazing,” she adds.

PEGGY HOPED TO STAY IN THE WATERFRONT AND CROSSED HER FINGERS HOPING FOR A RARE AND MUCH-COVETED PENTHOUSE UNIT TO HIT THE MARKET, PREFERABLY ONE WITH THREE BEDROOMS, THREE BATHS, PLENTY OF NATURAL LIGHT AND SWEEPING LAKE VIEWS. WHEN A PENTHOUSE END UNIT BECAME AVAILABLE, SHE JUMPED ON IT STRAIGHTAWAY.

smlhomemaga zine .com 29

Upscale downsizing

The first step was hiring Ken Brodin Builders to handle contracting duties; they demolished the stairs and opened up the kitchen first. “We wanted to make a grand room even though the square footage of the space was small,” Titus says. They focused on verticals, revamping the fireplace and adding new custom stair rails. They also replaced the floors; the original flooring was basically carpeted plywood. Titus recalls, “The fireplace was awkward and outof-scale. It had a small square insert in a large rectangular surround, so we created a brass-inlaid wood recess with coordinating flanking cabinetry.” Titus and Peggy loved the fluid, hybrid theme emerging—a bit modern and not too cottage-y, with a healthy sprinkle of traditional lake house style. “Touches like wire cabling along the stairs helped us overlay the comfortable vibe with a clean, modern finish,” says Titus. A barn door from Black Dog Salvage masks the foyer closet, adding a bit of age and architectural detail that grounds the space.

The grand room and dining area, now open to the kitchen, felt more open, airy and bright. Titus says, “We used handmade brick tile from Fire Clay Tile for the backsplash and finished the 3 0

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counters with a sleek waterfall edge.” In contrast, the oak cabinets are wire-brushed—a treatment that roughs up wood so it takes stain and glaze in different ways. “The result is a style that feels clean—a bit Shaker-ish and a little rustic,” the designer says.

Upholstered dining chairs and stools were chosen with short captain’s backs and covered in “Bali II” fabric from Quadrille’s China Seas line. The lower chair profiles don’t impede the view of glimmering lake hues of blue and green; these tones inform the muted palette that unifies the design. A vintage dining table base was sourced locally on an antiquing junket; its tabletop is a custom piece made of white ash by Bowman Woodworking in

Ferrum. Light and bright drapery and shades for all rooms are custom creations by Curtains, Blinds and Baths in Forest. The buffet is from Ballard Designs and showcases Peggy’s ceramic and glass fish collection to add seaglass-toned whimsy.

In the living room, swivel chairs make for easy conversation and enjoyment of lake views, all done up in “Bermuda Blossoms” from Schumacher’s Mary McDonald Collection. The sofa table is a raffia-covered console by Society Social, a North Carolina design house offering one-of-a-kind pieces handmade by a team of area artisans and craftsmen. Fireplace sconces are hand turned

by Dunes and Duchess, a Connecticut firm.

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“The downstairs bath got a whole different flip-around,” Titus says. They wanted to make Peggy’s adjacent master bath and closet larger, so they shrunk the small bathroom further. It has a tiny sink set into a spoolturned, hand-crafted vanity. Its light fixture was upcycled from a vintage basket and brass fixture by Stuart Schwadron at Yellow Mug (who happens to be Titus’s husband). “The wallpaper pattern mirrors the fabric we chose for the dining room captain’s chairs but in a different colorway,” she adds with a chuckle.

“I loved sneaking that in.” The bamboo wall storage shelf is an old piece that showcases vintage seashore paintings. “We laid it out so we could even give Peggy a tiny corner shower for occasional downstairs guests,” the bubbly designer remembers. “It’s a gem of a bath.”

Marriage of styles

For the master bedroom, the goal was serenity. “Though we used patterns and color everywhere else, for the bedroom we chose subdued green and muddy aqua highlights, Thibaut grass cloth wallpaper and custom drapes in Kravet fabric—pale, pale lavenderbordered linen,” Titus says. Bedding is from Eastern Accents of Chicago and the euro pillow fabric is by Kelly Wearstler, sold by Lee Jofa.

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Peggy and Titus found a pair of vintage lamps with a scallop design, made in Italy and purchased in Chicago. “I put new acrylic bases on the lamps and trimmed new shades to tie them into the room,” says Titus. “Antique, hand-painted prints from Italy were framed locally by Artfully Framed in Moneta. We added cerused oak nightstands with mirror tops from Made Goods,” says Titus. Cerused oak dates to the 1500s, when the white lead traditionally found in cosmetics was discovered by furniture makers for finishing porous woods. When applied to oak, the white pigment of the ceruse finish fills cracks and crevices and reveals the wood’s grain lines, adding dimension to the wood without affecting its color. Cerused oak (also known as limed oak) has come back into fashion; for obvious health and safety reasons, traditional lead has been replaced for modern use by nontoxic wax products.

In the master bathroom, the design is clean—a marriage of modern and traditional. Classic subway tile here has a fresh and wavy handmade finish. “We added super-modern fixtures

by Newport Brass and floated the sink cabinet,” Titus explains.

“If you don’t need every inch of storage space, consider ‘floating’ bathroom elements to make more tile visible, giving the room a feeling of expansiveness.” The larger bath accommodates a longer vanity, and floor tiles are made of super-thick, handpoured cement which will age and wear in beautiful ways. She offers this caution to those contemplating cement tile: “In hightraffic bathrooms, cement tile is not a great idea, but for Peggy’s use it’s fine and the patina developing is perfect. Cement tile is a perfect choice for foyers, by the way.” smlhomemaga zine .com 3 3

Upstairs, the guest bedroom pairs a leopard rug with blue and white elements Peggy already had.

Fun antique pieces include an old console table.

The stunning lake and treetop view from the private patio add to the cozy welcome of the space as Peggy’s artwork delivers pops of blue and yellow. In the guest bath adjoining, Titus added shiplap and nautical fixtures from Anthropologie to dress it up. The tile is blue and white; a sailboat picture and boating-themed detail on the mirror add charm to the bathroom.

Lighting was the final element; new LED lighting was installed in the kitchen and the tiny, retro foyer light was replaced with an updated, Art Deco-esque fixture. They added recessed lighting in the living room, and LED lights in bookshelves and under cabinets. The dining chandelier is all metal, glass and sleek. The prime directive, according to the designer?

“Don’t intrude on the view.”

Home on the lake

Upon reflection, Titus says, “I felt so proud upon finishing this project. My client just loves it.” Even though the overall feel is not obviously “lake house” or “boathouse,” there are thoughtful details—ship’s wheel motifs and touches throughout, sailboat paintings, weathered woods here and there and glimpses of unfinished brass. All these elements bring this lovely aerie into perfect waterside harmony. Peggy Balla is again, for the third time, home on the lake. ✦

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SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES

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S PAC I O U S S U I T E S

K I TC H E N E T T E

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LIVE brunch

BEST-EVER BRUNCH easy recipes for lakeside entertaining

BY M A R S H A G A L E

Brunch is an easy way to entertain friends and family, especially with recipes you can make ahead. Having a leisurely meal followed by an early afternoon on the dock is a beautiful way to spend the day any time of year.

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CHEESY CHICKEN PEPPER BROCCOLI FRITTATA (Serves 6)

Frittatas are easier to make than a quiche and very adaptable to whatever protein and veggies you have in your fridge, so feel free to swap out ingredients. The results will still be delicious, and if you happen to have leftovers, they taste just as good the next day!

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped 1 large red bell pepper, chopped 3 green onions, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 8 large eggs 1/2 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese 6 ounces cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken makes this easy) Place rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 350 degrees. Lightly coat a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add broccoli and peppers and saute until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the green onions, garlic, salt and pepper and cook 1 additional minute.

Remove from heat and set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, then add cheese, chicken, and vegetables from the skillet. Stir to combine, then pour into the prepared pie dish.

Bake 40 minutes, until the center is nearly set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The frittata will puff while baking, then settle a bit as it cools. Let sit 5 minutes then serve warm or at room temperature.

MAPLE AND COFFEEGLAZED BACON

A eureka moment for me was the first time I made bacon in the oven instead of frying it on the stovetop. The grease is contained in the sheet pan, so it’s much less messy, and it requires very little attention while it cooks.

In this recipe, maple syrup and coffee turn regular bacon into a gourmet treat, but if you want to keep it simple, eliminate all the ingredients except for the bacon and you’ll still end up with delicious crispy strips every time.

12 slices thick-cut bacon 1/4 cup brewed coffee 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons brown sugar Freshly ground black pepper Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil then place an ovenproof baking rack on top.

Spray rack lightly with nonstick spray. Place bacon in a single layer on the rack. You may need to use two baking sheets.

Mix coffee with maple syrup, brown sugar and pepper until the sugar dissolves. Brush the mixture over the top side of the bacon. Bake for about 10 minutes, turn the bacon over and brush on the maple/coffee/sugar mixture again. Continue baking until the bacon has caramelized, usually about 20 minutes total for thickcut bacon. ADAPTED FROM FOOD NETWORK MAGAZINE.

ADAPTED FROM WELL PLATED BY ERIN.

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BOOZY CARAMEL FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE (serves 6)

Assembling this casserole the night before lets the cook get a few more minutes of shut-eye.

It looks and tastes fancy, but it’s a straightforward recipe.

Grand Marnier is an orange liqueur that pairs well with the caramel and orange zest.

If you prefer to leave it out, substitute 3 tablespoons of half-and-half.

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1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 2 tablespoons light corn syrup 1 1/3 pounds brioche or challah (you’ll likely need two loaves but you won’t use it all) 5 large eggs 1 1/2 cups half-and-half 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 tablespoons Grand Marnier 1 teaspoon orange zest 1/4 teaspoon salt Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter.

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In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter with brown sugar, corn syrup, and one tablespoon of water, stirring with a whisk until smooth caramel forms. Pour into the prepared pan. Slice off the crusts from the brioche (it doesn’t need to be perfect). Cut the bread into 1 ½-inch slices. Arrange bread slices on top of the caramel, making sure the entire base of the pan is covered.

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, half-andhalf, vanilla, Grand Marnier, orange zest and salt until well combined. Pour evenly over bread. Cover with plastic wrap and chill at least 20 minutes or overnight.

MIMOSA FRUIT SALAD (serves 8)

In my work as a personal chef, this is a client favorite that I frequently make when breakfast for dinner is requested.

1 cup pineapple, cut into small pieces 3 kiwis, peeled and sliced 3 cups assorted berries of your choice 1/2 cup freshly-squeezed orange juice 1 tablespoon honey 1 cup Prosecco, chilled, (or sparkling grape juice to keep it kid-friendly) 1/4 cup fresh mint In a large bowl, combine all fruit.

Pour orange juice and honey over the fruit and toss carefully to combine. You can assemble to this point ahead of time, but wait to add the Prosecco until just before you serve, then garnish with mint. ADAPTED FROM DELISH.

CHAMPAGNE MULES (serves 2)

A signature cocktail makes even a simple meal special.

This is a fun twist on a Moscow Mule, perfect for brunch with the addition of champagne or Prosecco.

2 ounces vodka 2 ounces fresh lime juice 4 ounces ginger beer Chilled champagne or prosecco Lime wedges Mint Pour 1 ounce each vodka and fresh lime juice into two glasses filled with ice, then top each glass with 2 ounces ginger beer.

Pour champagne or Prosecco over, then garnish with lime wedge and mint. ADAPTED FROM FOOD NETWORK. ✦

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Bake, uncovered, until puffed and golden, 40–50 minutes. Let cool a few minutes (it will deflate a bit) then serve immediately.

The caramel base hardens up as it cools, so it’s essential to serve warm. ADAPTED FROM ONCE UPON A CHEF.

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“Remodeling Specialist” Since 1984 400 Scruggs Rd. · Moneta, VA 24121 · 540-721-1752 · www.DeNealsCabinets.com · Like us on

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DESIGN flooring trends

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED T R E N D S IN FLO O RING

BY C AROL J. ALE X ANDER

S

ometimes, looking back, we wonder how we ever lived with things like cargo furniture, early American prints and avocado-green shag carpeting. But as any designer or home decorator can tell you, what goes around comes around. Patterns, colors and style lines come and go as trends whether you’re talking about kitchen cabinets, furniture or flooring. With flooring, though, advancements in manufacturing have given us more choices in design and more durable products. We caught up with a couple of flooring experts to ask them about the trends they see now and for 2020. If you’re thinking of replacing any flooring in your home, we think you’ll be excited.

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Luxury vinyl tile: the new champ

Certainly not your grandma’s linoleum, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) has increased in popularity since it came on the flooring scene a few years ago. And unlike the peel-and-stick your mom put down in the laundry room when you were a kid, LVT planks lock together and float on the subfloor much like laminate. They come in a myriad of colors and styles and the best part for lake living is that they’re waterproof.

“People like the LVT because it’s waterproof, pet-proof, and kid-proof,” says Bob Garby, flooring specialist with Whitt Carpet One Floor & Home in Salem.

Vicki Milleham, real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate agrees. “LVT is good for traffic coming in from the lake,” she says. “And there are a lot of options to choose from.”

What started as plank flooring that resembled hardwood, LVT now comes in a tile or stone look as well. Some plank varieties are textured to give it a more realistic wood feel. Likewise, some styles of LVT are designed to be installed using grout, producing a more authentically ceramic look.

Will LVT hold its first-place title in 2020? You bet. “Every week there’s something new in luxury vinyl,” says Garby.

Hardwood flooring: top dog?

“Everyone still loves hardwood floors,” says Milleham. But is it the top choice when it comes to redecorating? Garby says not.

“Number one is luxury vinyl tile, number two is hardwood, and number three is carpet,” says Garby.

That second position could be for several reasons.

“Installing hardwood floors is a lifetime investment,” he says. It shows wear that the vinyl

WHAT STARTED AS PLANK FLOORING THAT RESEMBLED HARDWOOD, LVT NOW COMES IN A TILE OR STONE LOOK AS WELL. SOME PLANK VARIETIES ARE TEXTURED TO GIVE IT A MORE REALISTIC WOOD FEEL.

smlhomemaga zine .com 4 3

doesn’t and isn’t waterproof. And for a lakefront home, that is something to consider.

However, with synthetic flooring, you have what experts call pattern repeat. Because the wood-grain pattern is a photograph of something natural, there will be a repeat in that pattern, making things like the same knothole on every third plank noticeable to the discerning eye. So, if a homeowner wants a truly natural product, hardwood is the way to go.

What’s the prediction for the future of hardwood? Still the classic, natural flooring option, homeowners will continue to choose hardwood for high traffic areas not exposed to water for homeowners who can afford it.

Carpet is not dead

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Contrary to popular opinion, carpet is still a popular floor covering. According to Charles Snider, president of Piedmont Floors in Forest, it is now easier to maintain, more stainresistant, and comes with hypoallergenic choices. The fibers of Mohawk’s Air.o line are created with advanced polymers free of latex and potentially harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it a popular choice for parents of small children or sensitive pets.

“Carpet is still a popular selection for bedrooms and stairways,” says Snider. And it’s the most economical choice for the budget-minded homeowner.

Garby has noticed a huge increase in multi-colored carpets. “They’re mixing colors like grey and brown,” he says.

“Homeowners can more easily change wall colors when they install a multi-colored floor covering.”

And for homeowners who enjoy redecorating on a regular basis, large area rugs over already-installed hard floors offer the same comfort and warmth as carpet but are easier to change out.

Will carpet continue to be a major player in 2020? Absolutely. Especially where you want a warm or comfortable feeling.

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Ceramic tile is pretty much relegated to the kitchen and bath areas now. And, since luxury vinyl tile is waterproof, more homeowners are extending their LVT floors into the open kitchen areas—meaning less ceramic tile.

“Luxury vinyl tile is quieter, warmer, and softer than ceramic,” says Garby. “And, like hardwood, ceramic tile is a lifetime investment.” If someone thinks they may change their flooring with a redecorating job, ceramic isn’t the economical way to go.

S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

Garby says there’s not as much of a demand for green products like there was when they first came out, either. That makes cork and bamboo less prominent.

And what about laminate? While some folks still choose this hardwood-look option, it isn’t as “waterproof, pet-proof, and kid-proof” as the LVT. Keeping up with the times

Both flooring experts agree that customers now seek an online experience. “Consumers want to have the option now to order and shop from home,” says Snider. “We have created a new website that is constantly evolving to include our vendors’ complete offerings.”

Life on the lake includes making a lifetime of memories with swimming, boating, or just sipping something by the shore. But dripping bodies and water equipment, or just the damp moist air can play havoc on your floors. Keep that in mind when choosing a new flooring option for your Smith Mountain Lake home. Because with the choices we have now, the sky’s the limit. ✦

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IMPROVE cleaning tips

get your shine back

TIPS TO AVOID A LACKLUSTER LAKEHOUSE

BY JANE RENNYSON

M

aintaining a clean house at the lake can present its own challenges. Between hosting family members or guests, taking part in lake activities, or simply dealing with day-to-day living, things can get dirty fast. But with simple upkeep and the occasional deep cleaning, you can spend less time doing those dreaded chores and more time enjoying your peaceful lake life.

Dirt: Do Not Enter

Keep your lake home cleaner by stopping dirt from ever coming inside. Place a doormat at each entrance. This will encourage people to wipe their feet when coming in the house. Also, discourage family and guests from going barefoot outside; dirty feet will soil carpets and floors quickly. It’s a good idea to have extra flip flops by the door for quick trips down to the dock or out

to the car. Your carpets may get a lot of traffic, but vacuuming them on a regular basis will keep them clean. Plan on once a week, or after each visit from guests. Be sure to take care of spots, spills and accidents right away. Fresh stains are easier to clean and prompt attention helps prevent them from setting. Easy-to-use sweepers with disposable wet cloths are a great choice for your tile, linoleum or wood floors. If you can mop

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them once a week, the life of your floors will be extended and they will always have that fresh, just-cleaned appearance.

Maintain the heart of the home

The most popular room in the house, the kitchen, needs special attention to remain neat and tidy. Your refrigerator deserves a deep cleaning every six months. Remove all contents and wipe down surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner. Vacuum out the drawers to remove crumbs or bits of food that are stuck. Don’t forget to vacuum the coils; they will run more effectively when they are dust free.

Keeping your fridge clean also means keeping it organized.

Use baskets to store similar items, then simply remove the baskets when cleaning. Wipe off bottles and jars that are sticky before you put them away. This means less mess and build up on your shelves. To keep the shelves extra clean, line them with sticky plastic wrap or plastic placemats. Then remove and clean or toss for easy clean up. Place a box of baking soda in your refrigerator to help control odors.

Baking soda will also freshen up your garbage disposal. Pour it in and let it sit for 30 minutes. Citrus fruit is also a good deodorizer for the disposal. Running it with half a lemon or orange will do wonders for the smell.

Even though it seems to clean itself with each use, your dishwasher needs to be cleaned. A packet of lemonade mix (no sugar added) in place of soap will make your dishwasher sparkle like new.

You can remove the filter and rinse with soap and water to remove any food left behind.

Use a soft cloth to wipe the inside of the door, the controls and the handle.

Finally, even though you may not be able to see it, your kitchen cabinets may be dirty. Dust, dirt, grease from cooking and fingerprints can build up on their surfaces and make them look dull. They can easily be wiped clean with warm water and a degreasing dish detergent.

Fight bathroom grime

Lake living is particularly hard on your bathrooms due to humid weather, abundant guests and lack of attention if this your second home. Remind family and visitors to use the bathroom fan or open the window when taking a shower. Place a squeegee in the bathroom and request the last person to shower to use it on the tub, walls and shower doors. Be sure to pull the shower curtain closed so it can properly dry. Installing a mildew-resistant shower curtain will cut down on cleanings. You can use a 4 8

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commercial water repellant on the shower walls and doors to help water, soap scum and minerals slide off.

Keeping disinfecting wipes handy also allows for quick and easy tidying up. Having enough space to hang your towels in the bathroom is important so they get completely dry, and stay free of mold or mildew. If you don’t have enough towel bars, install hooks or use an over-the-door towel holder. Mold and mildew will grow on the underside of bathroom rugs too; be sure to hang them to dry after each use and wash them often.

Guests welcome!

The key to being ready for guests is preparation, and that means clean towels and guest bedding. Towels that have been used at the lake tend to gain a musty or mildew smell over time, but that can be fixed easily by washing them with vinegar. Add one cup of white vinegar per load of towels and wash in hot water to eliminate any lingering odors. Run the cycle again using detergent and dry them on high heat. If your guest bedding is in need of freshening up, add scented paper to your linen closet shelving, or place dryer sheets or sachets between your sets of sheets. You can purchase linen spray for your guest room, or make your own using essential oils and water. Lavender oil is always a nice touch to put your guests at ease before bedtime.

Eliminate the need for hard work when it comes to cleaning your lake house with regular maintenance and upkeep. You will have that fresh and clean appearance year-round with minimal effort and stress, and you will be ready when guests come knocking at your door. âœŚ

smlhomemaga zine .com 4 9

LIVE creative outlets

get creative

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE COMMUNITY OF ARTISTS OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE B Y PAU L A P E T E R S C H A M B E R S

Luckily, those who call Smith Mountain Lake home (even for occasional visits) have abundant options to explore what creativity means to them. From woodturning to ceramics, creative writing to photography, the area—including nearby communities of Moneta, Rocky Mount and Bedford—gives many opportunities for residents to return to an old hobby, expand their knowledge in a familiar area, or learn something new.

Building community

Building community at Smith Mountain Lake is important, given the blending of longtime residents with those who come to the lake from elsewhere after careers or in search of a quieter existence. Barb Nocera, president of Smith Mountain Arts Council (SMAC), points to a building boom in the 1990s, which led the population to swell to roughly 30,000.

“All those people brought amazing talents with them: painting, writing, acting,” Nocera says. “There’s really a lot of talent around the lake. [SMAC] tries to nurture local performers, and then people come together to enjoy the entertainment.”

SMAC sponsors programs—including annual art and photo shows, and coffeehouses with local musicians—and collaborates with 11 affiliate groups that share a mission of promoting the arts. One group, the Lake Players, produces two theatrical performances every year. “They have quite a following,” Nocera says. “People enjoy that it’s their friends and neighbors who are the actors.”

Hands-on involvement is key to the mission of the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford, which has gallery and studio space, and also offers classes, workshops and community arts projects year-round.

“Support for artists in Bedford is not proportionate to [the town’s] size,” says Katrina Pick, the center’s communications and marketing coordinator. “There’s a thriving arts scene here. This 5 0

space is pure community building, a place where everyone is welcome.”

Pick says the center’s classes—which range from pottery and ceramics to mosaics, knitting and watercolors—are geared for everyone. “We always say our focus is not what your skill level is, but on the creative process and developing the creative process,” she says.

To reach people who might not seek out a class, the center initiates community art projects that ask for small contributions, such as the pair of wings fashioned out of 500-plus feathers—each colored individually. “We try to catch people at the door, and eventually they engage,” Pick says.

Playing along

John O’Connell organized the SML Photo Club in 2016 with fun—and education—in mind.

A self-described photo hobbyist in his youth, O’Connell said he returned to photography through photo clubs in Roanoke, Bedford and Forest, and was asked by SMAC to start a club locally.

Unlike most other photography clubs, this one doesn’t sponsor a competition. “People can join other clubs for that,” O’Connell says. “I’m more interested in developing my and other people’s photographic eye, not thinking about outdoing someone else.”

The group’s monthly meetings include both exhibition and instruction. Each meeting opens with a slideshow of members’ S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

A 2018 SURVEY SPONSORED BY AMERICANS FOR THE ARTS, A NATIONAL NONPROFIT THAT ADVOCATES FOR THE ARTS AND ARTS EDUCATION IN THE U.S., FOUND THAT 69 PERCENT OF THE POPULATION BELIEVE THE ARTS “LIFT ME UP BEYOND EVERYDAY EXPERIENCES,” WHILE 79 PERCENT SAY THE ARTS PROVIDE A “POSITIVE EXPERIENCE IN A TROUBLED WORLD.” ADDITIONALLY, INVOLVEMENT IN THE ARTS SUPPORTS COMMUNITY; 72 PERCENT BELIEVE THE ARTS UNIFY COMMUNITIES REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE AND ETHNICITY. smlhomemaga zine .com 51

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photographs on the monthly theme (“leaves� or “black-andwhite� for example) and then move to an instructional session on topics ranging from how color is handled in software to landscape photography to depth of field.

During the slideshow, productive comments are encouraged, O’Connell says. “The whole idea is to draw on one another’s creativity for inspiration and for knowledge,� he says. “The rule is you can’t just say, ‘I like it’; you have to talk about the mood, feeling, framing, composition, but not in a critical manner. We don’t want anyone to be uncomfortable about their work. The whole idea is to elevate everyone, not diminish anyone. You learn from each other.�

O’Connell says the group is open to all, because “If you have a cell phone, you can take a picture.�

Smith Mountain Lake Woodturners takes a similar approach. “Anybody’s welcome� to the group’s monthly meetings, says president Dan Madar. “In general, woodturners tend to be generous with their time and talents.�

As a chapter of the American Association of Woodturners, the group seeks to expose and educate about woodturning, which originated with the Egyptians thousands of years ago. Monthly meetings feature a demonstration from a local member, or a presentation from a nationally or internationally known turner.

Madar recommends that people with no woodturning experience start with a workshop offered by the Roanoke club. “A class is the safest way to learn proper tool techniques,� he says. “In general, woodturning isn’t inherently dangerous, but you have to be careful.�

Woodturners need a lathe and tools; the initial expense can cost roughly $400, Madar says, noting that the wood itself is relatively easy to come by. “I have more wood than I’ll ever turn in a lifetime,� he says, adding members will often bring wood to share to meetings.

Madar says the immediacy of woodturning is what often appeals to newcomers. A bowl can be turned and finished with oil in a few hours; other “utility� items such as pens, bottle stoppers, pizza cutters and pepper mills are also easy to make, thanks to easy-to-assemble kits.“It’s almost instant gratification,� he says.

For many musicians, whether vocal or instrumental, gratification comes in the shared experience of making music in a group. Ricky’s Bluegrass Connection in Moneta hosts an open “jam� every Friday night, welcoming musicians from near and far. “We take just about anybody,� says Laura Ellis, who, with her father, Ricky, runs the business that also offers music lessons. “We’ve had people come in with a tambourine, with a kazoo; one time, we had a guy come with a trumpet, and he played.�

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People of all ages—including children—can come to listen, at no cost. “It’s like walking into a home,” Laura Ellis says. “It’s a family-friendly environment. We put out snacks, everybody brings a little something.

You just jam, you snack, you make jokes.”

No two Fridays are alike, she says.

“It’s never the same music, never the same vibe, it’s always something interesting.”

Vocalists have the Lakeside Singers, which practice weekly March-May to prepare for their annual concert in June. Organizer Karen deBord says people come for “the love of singing and camaraderie.

“This is one choral music outlet that allows people to sing without being singled out as a soloist or in a small group,” she says. “You can blend in and be a part of the whole.”

No prior musical experience is necessary. “A few who do not read music learn the words well and their musical part enough to sing with the choir,” deBord says. “I find that those people are very astute in a way that

others who read music are not. They may even have to work harder!”

Experienced painters as well as novices are found within Bald Knob Artists, which meets monthly in Rocky Mount to share their appreciation of painting, drawing and other visual arts. “You’re with a lot of people who are really interested in the arts,” says treasurer Harriet Madar (wife of woodturner Dan Madar). “There’s always somebody who paints better than you; there’s always someone who brings something to the table.”

Some months, guest speakers come to offer programs on specific topics or to critique members’ works. As with the other groups, the purpose is to support and educate, not discourage. “We like to get the word out and let people know we are there and that everybody is welcome,” Harriet Madar says.

In the end, arts involvement is less about what someone does and more about the doing itself, the Bower Center’s Pick says.

“Art is play for grownups, and grownups need to play.” ✦

TO GET INVOLVED Smith Mountain Arts Council smithmountainartscouncil.com Bower Center for the Arts bowercenter.org SML Photo Club smithmountainartscouncil.com/Photo-Club Smith Mountain Lake Woodturners smlwoodturners.net Ricky’s Bluegrass Connection facebook.com/rickysbluegrassconnection Lakeside Singers: facebook.com/SML.LakesideSingers Bald Knob Artists facebook.com/groups/119486828076667

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CONTAIN YOUR ENTHUSIASM A HOW-TO GUIDE FOR CONTAINER GARDENING

BY S LOA N E LU C A S

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C

olorful blooms greet people on your front step. Elaborate arrangements of succulents decorate either end of your sunny deck. Tomatoes, peppers and cilantro entice you to make homemade salsa. And window boxes invite you to clip fresh herbs. Container gardening is an excellent option for both seasonal outdoor decor and edible plants.

There are some great benefits to container gardening that make it an excellent option for both casual and die-hard gardeners. If you are short on space, containers allow you to enjoy all the benefits

of a full garden even if all you have to work with is a patio, porch or driveway. You can grow distinctly different plants in separate containers right next to each other, allowing you to tailor the soil, fertilizer and other care to each plant.

You can rotate plants in and out based on the seasons or your whims so you always have a fresh display to enjoy. Weeds—and therefore weeding— are kept to a minimum, making containers easy to care for. And you can manage the soil far more easily than larger spaces in the open garden, which allows you to give your plants exactly what they need to be their best.

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Choosing containers

The larger the container, the more you can plant, which actually results in less day-to-day work since the higher volume of soil will retain more water and require less frequent watering. But there are other factors that you should consider.

Placement should inform size. Half-barrels and metal wash tubs are large and great for ends of driveways or as decor in a back yard.

Taller planters on a stand make a decorative statement on porches or on either side of front doors. An arrangement of smaller terra cotta pots adds European charm to any small patio.

Another thing to ask yourself is how frequently you will be able to water your planters. Containers will dry out faster than raised beds or an open garden, so if you are unable to water every day or every other day, consider self-watering containers. These are usually made of synthetic materials, such as plastic, with an internal system that holds the soil above a reservoir of water at the bottom. This encourages roots to grow down deep into the water and allows you to pre-fill the planter with water to last a few days.

It’s a life-saver in summer, and a time-saver anytime.

You should also consider materials carefully. You may like the look of natural wood whisky half-barrels, but the wood will eventually break down, especially if placed on the ground. Natural materials, such as wood or terra cotta, will dry out faster than plastic, requiring more waterings. Terra cotta and ceramic, while beautiful and charming, are also breakable, so position them in areas where they won’t be in harm’s way, or look to buy plastic or foam versions that offer the look without the potential for damage. Dark-colored planters set in direct sunlight will heat up more during the day and dry out even faster, and possibly lead to damaged roots. Hanging planters are probably the most labor intensive, requiring multiple waterings a day in some climates.

Metal is sleek and modern, but will heat up significantly and potentially lead to damaged roots.

Planters can become significantly heavier with soil, water and plants added, so also consider whether the container will need to be moved, and whether a patio or deck can support the weight.

Position containers where you plan to keep them before you fill with dirt, plants and water. Or, purchase plant caddies with wheels that allow you to move the containers around.

Regardless of size or materials, all containers need some kind of drainage holes to prevent roots from getting waterlogged or rotting.

Weigh the pros and cons of each style, think through where you plan to place them, and choose accordingly. Be sure that wherever you plan to position them has easy access to water and the appropriate amount of light for your particular plants.

Plant for success

The easiest way to populate your containers is with a visit to the local gardening center to see what flowers and vegetables are available and in season. As with all plants, read the accompanying description tabs carefully so you know what the plant needs, paying special attention to the level of sunlight required so you can ensure that planters and containers are situated to receive the appropriate amount of sun. The tabs should also tell you which plants will thrive in containers.

One thing you’ll consider is whether a plant is a perennial or an annual. Perennials are plants that, once established, will grow, die back and then regrow every season. Flowering perennials will bloom for a specific time period and then wither, only to return the same time next year. They are a great investment when establishing 5 6

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WHEN PLANTING A DECORATIVE CONTAINER, THINK ABOUT THE VISUAL DESIGN OF THE MINI-GARDEN YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE. ONE TACTIC FOR PLANTING A DECORATIVE FLORAL CONTAINER IS THE “THRILLER, FILLER, SPILLER” METHOD.

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a garden bed in your yard since they will give color the same time year after year.

If you have large enough containers, such as whiskey barrels or large cement planters, you might want to invest in perennials like daisies and watch them come back year after year, or choose decorative shrubbery that can overwinter. On the other hand, since one of the benefits of containers is the option of swapping out plants based on season, you might want to stick with annuals.

Annuals have a shorter life span, but they give you all they’ve got when it comes to color, blooming throughout a season until they run their course and die back. Another option is to maintain a perennial like a decorative shrub for year-round container interest, and plant different annuals around it as the season dictates.

When planting a decorative container, think about the visual design of the mini-garden you want to achieve. One tactic for planting a decorative floral container is the “thriller, filler, spiller” method. Choose a vertical “thrilling” plant to dominate the center of the container, such as an ornamental grass. Choose smaller “filler” plants to surround the main focal point with bright color, like petunias. Then, add a few “spillers” that cascade down, such as ivy.

Another popular design theme is to go monochromatic, or shades of the same color. You can choose a selection of all greenery, or go with multiple flowering plants in different shades of reds, purples or whites. You can even plan a succulent garden in various shades of green.

An edible garden

If you are building a container of edible plants— such as tomatoes, peppers, or herbs—you will need to choose specific varieties suitable for containers.

For example, with tomatoes, you will want to choose “patio” varieties, which are literally suited

for growing in containers on patios. Or, you can look for “determinate” varieties that indicate they are suitable for containers. Determinates will only grow to a certain size and then begin to set fruit, as opposed to indeterminates which will keep growing and growing until disease or the weather kills them off. Check the information for all vegetable plants before buying, and choose ones indicated suitable for containers with descriptions like dwarf, bush or compact. Most herbs, however, will be suitable for containers.

Because planters and containers will heat up faster than soil in a garden, you may be able to push your planting time up a few weeks, and be the first on your block with fresh tomatoes.

You can grow all sorts of vegetables and herbs together, adding flowers for color, making a container garden that’s not only beautiful but also (mostly) edible. Tomatoes, peppers and cilantro is one popular combination. Tomatoes, basil and marigolds is another traditional grouping. Small eggplants, cucumbers on a trellis and parsley would also work. You can even add edible flowers like nasturtiums.

Getting the dirt

Containers require different soil than raised beds or an open garden. Regular dirt from your garden will get too dense and compacted in containers, making it hard for roots to grow and making it impossible for plants to thrive. Container dirt needs to be lighter, using a mixture of soil combined with other fillers that create air and retain water. Your easiest choice is to purchase bags of pre-made container soil. Look for brands like Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix, which includes built-in fertilizer as well as materials that hold extra water and release it slowly when soil starts to dry out.

Potting soil like this will give your plants a head start with extra nutrients in the soil.

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You can help gauge how much soil you need by calculating the cubic feet of the planter and comparing that to the volume of soil in the bag.

If you already have containers with old potting soil, don’t get rid of it. You can still use it; you just need to “recharge” it. Empty old soil into a wheelbarrow or garden tub so you can easily remove old roots or rocks. Mix in compost and fertilizer, and then refill the containers before planting.

Planting time

Before filling your selected containers with your specially purchased or refreshed soil, layer a few sheets of paper towels or flattened coffee filters on the bottom to prevent soil from leaking out during waterings.

Fill your container up with soil, then water it thoroughly until water runs out of the bottom. This will help the soil settle and moisten in advance of planting. Soil will likely compact a bit, so be prepared to add more after planting.

Carefully remove plants from their containers. (If the plant has become rootbound with the roots in a tight nest, gently loosen them.) Dig a small hole in the soil large enough to cover the root ball and then gently, but firmly, push the plant down into the hole. Tamp soil around the plant. Repeat this process until all of your plants are in place, add a layer of soil on top if needed, then water them all down again. You may also consider adding a final layer of mulch on top, to keep soil as moist as possible. Choose mulch with nontoxic ingredients if you are using it in a vegetable container.

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Ongoing maintenance

While containers can be easier to care for than gardens in many ways, you will still need to invest time in maintaining their beauty. Your containers might need daily or twice-daily watering to keep soil moist, which will keep flowering plants from wilting and keep vegetable plants productive.

As your plants grow, they will absorb the existing nutrients in the soil, depleting it. Plan to augment the soil with liquid or solid fertilizer throughout the season. Keep a watch for disease or bugs, and address accordingly. Don’t hesitate to yank out one diseased plant to save the rest; you can always buy another plant to replace it. Or you can use remedying sprays and treatments.

To keep planters looking tidy and green, take time to snip off any brown leaves, deadhead flowers, and yank any stray weeds.

If growing herbs, clip them regularly to prevent them from flowering and going to seed. Clipping herbs like basil will make them even bushier and more productive.

Whether you are looking to add colorful flowers to your landscape, or trying to grow your own veggies and herbs, container gardens allow for maximum yield with maximum control and relatively little work. Your containers can be tailored to any decor, while plants can be chosen for beauty, taste or both. You’ll be on your way to creating decorative planters that you can enjoy, and which will also wow neighbors and visitors all season long. ✦

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IMPROVE dock life

dock-ease

THE LATEST IN DOCK CONVENIENCE ITEMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY C R A I G S H A F F E R

BY J ERRY HALE

Shorefront property owners at Smith Mountain Lake are dressing up their docks with both high-tech and time-tested accessories to facilitate use and storage of watercraft and their collections of toys for on-the-water fun.

Easy boat covering

One significant innovation in boat keeping is the “automatic” or “touchless” boat cover. Introduced to Smith Mountain Lake by installing dealer Jay Shoffner in 2005, these custom-measured and -crafted waterproof fabric cocoons are raised and lowered by remote to fully shield runabouts, pontoons, fishing boats and water sports towboats from rain and snow, damaging UV rays and insect droppings. Boat owners love them for the time and energy they save keeping their watercraft ship-

shape. “Purchasers tell us they use their boats much more when they are spared the inconvenience of manually uncovering and recovering their boats, and that they enjoy the outings more when boats are clean and inviting,” says Shoffner. “Then there’s the safety factor: As boat owners age, manhandling canvas and crawling around to fasten and unfasten snaps gets increasingly difficult and precarious.”

Case in point: Lakewatch Plantation boater John Stroebel found that handling the mooring cover for his new wake boat was time-consuming and

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taxing, especially working alone. One evening, while fitting the cover around the boat’s complex towing tower, he slipped and tumbled, whacking his head on the dock and losing a $700 pair of prescription sun glasses. “That was the last straw,” Stroebel says, and is finding his new automatic boat cover to be the ideal way to safely and easily keep his boat looking showroom-pristine.

Automatic boat covers are pricey; they can run $8,000 to upwards of $14,000, depending on boat size. But owners feel they are worth the price for convenience, safety and maintaining vessel resale value. Over 500 have been installed on SML docks to date.

More fingertip control

Boat lift remotes are a nice convenience and can replace oldstyle pole-mounted switches for about $620 per lift, says Bill Nissan of Dock Solutions. “A remote lets the skipper, returning after a half-day cruise, reposition the lift to account for water level changes,” he says. “During low-water periods, operators can board and disembark at dock level, lowering and raising the lift from the helm seat. And use of a button-hold remote precludes the accidental turn-ons or over-runs that happen with old-style lift switches, resulting in costly repairs to boats, lift cables and dock ceilings.”

Flat-panel smart TVs are another popular dock feature, remotely controlled for easy changes between sports, YouTube, HGTV and Netflix. Some rely on a cable feed for reception but, says Matt Hartberger of Roanoke’s Audiotronics, “A wireless signal for TV, iPad or laptop from a house-mounted outdoor access point can transmit up to 500 feet, depending on obstructions.”

Hartberger also notes increasing call for TVs designed for outdoor locations. He sells a flat-screen model that can get hot, cold, splashed and rained on or even hose washed with no damage; a 55-inch model runs around $2500. Also, exterior audio system speakers are now designed to be hidden from view and direction-focused to minimize sound carry over the water, Hartberger says.

For security, Audiotronics offers alarm and surveillance systems from simple to deluxe. Today’s recorders can store video to the cloud or transmit real time images to smartphones and iPads for monitoring when owners are away.

Storage that saves dock space

With the recent popularity of paddle boards and kayaks, storing them in ways that minimize the fixed dock or floater space they occupy is important. Racks that keep boards on edge, against a dock house wall, between pilings or even on the deck, can be purchased or duplicated with PVC tubing.

Because docks vary so widely in their design, orientation and use patterns, no one system fits all. Those looking for a storage solution might consider cruising the coves, taking note of how other dock owners have corralled their paddle-craft between uses. Most owners will gladly talk about their solutions if you catch them lounging on their docks. Cellphone photos of appealing approaches can provide good guidance for DIY adaptations or work by a hired handyman or dock builder.

The same scouting approach can also turn up tow-tube storage ideas such as pulley systems that raise towables into dock rafters.

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Tried and true convenience

Some simple approaches stand the test of time. A container or rack for swim noodles can keep them orderly, ready to be quickdrawn from their quiver by swimmers about to take the plunge. Find a place in the dock house to store life jackets on clothes hangers. A simple closet pole or wire shelf usually works to keep them hanging orderly and free to air dry after use.

Fenders permanently affixed to your floater (keep them above-water to avoid mildew and slime!) and “guest” docking lines make short-term tie-ups easy for

you and friends who stop by. Outdoor carpeting—Lowe’s offers some made from recycled plastic soda bottles—improves footing on floaters, protects from sun weathering, and keeps decking splinter free and cool under foot. A newer solution: WEARDECK TM, a just-introduced durable HDPE-over-fiberglass decking alternative, comes in eight colors that reflect UV rays and stay cool to the touch of tender feet.

Swim ladders are a must for enjoying SML’s cooling waters, and an updated design called “Clean Ladder” rotates up out of the water to keep scum from forming on steps. Plus, its wide, sloped

steps are easy for children and elders to climb. Dock Solutions can install one on your floater for $199.

Thinking through how you wish to use your dock and taking steps to prepare for those occasions will make lakefront living more enjoyable for all. And since dock owners and their guests age into different use phases as years pass, designing the ideal dock is not “once and done.”

Evolving needs suggest evolving solutions to best fit how a dock is being used each summer, and updates to equipment and storage solutions should be ongoing. ✦

THINKING THROUGH HOW YOU WISH TO USE YOUR DOCK AND TAKING STEPS TO PREPARE FOR THOSE OCCASIONS WILL MAKE LAKEFRONT LIVING MORE ENJOYABLE FOR ALL.

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a tale of two townhomes FRIENDS’ WATERFRONT RENOVATIONS TAKE ON DIFFERENT AESTHETICS

BY NOELLE MIL AM Photography by Michael Patch

THE KREGER AND NICHOLS TOWNHOMES WERE BUILT TO BE IDENTICAL BACK IN 1995. THEY STILL APPEAR IDENTICAL FROM THE OUTSIDE, AND THEY HAVE THE SAME FLOOR PLAN.

sland Green Pointe, a popular neighborhood in the Water’s Edge community, is situated directly on the lake and offers its residents a relaxed lifestyle with waterfront views, covered boat slips, lawn care, and amenities at the nearby Water’s Edge Country Club. It’s no wonder that long-time Smith Mountain Lake homeowners Pam and Trip Kreger and Christy and Joel Nichols decided upon the townhomes at Island Green Pointe when they were in the market for a vacation homes that their grown children and grandchildren would want to return to year after year.

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NICHOLS HOME

KREGER HOME

The Kregers and Nichols have been friends for many years. Starting as neighbors in South Roanoke when their children were very young, they cultivated a friendship that now spans decades. In 2014, the Kregers were the first to purchase in Island Green Pointe, followed fortuitously by the Nichols the following year. It was a pleasant surprise for both couples. “I’ll never forget,” says Pam Kreger. “I was down at the dock reading and I heard these voices. I thought, ‘Goodness, that sounds exactly like Christy and Joel!’” Searching for a new place in 2014, the Nichols were aware that their friends had relocated to a new place at the lake, but didn’t know where.

Joel remembers spotting Pam on the dock that day. “Christy and I were delighted to find our old friends were nearby, and it was one of the things that told us that this was the place for us,” he recalls. It turns out their house hunts had led these old friends to the same place. Shortly thereafter, the Nichols purchased the townhome two doors down, and now the friends are neighbors again.

To call these residences “townhomes” belies their nature as sprawling family homes. At 3,600 square feet with five bedrooms, these homes have all the room that extended families need. The Kreger and Nichols units were built to be identical back in 1995. They still appear identical from the outside, and they have the same floor plan: open concept kitchen/ dining room/living room with vaulted ceilings supported by a brick chimney that spans both the upper level and lower level of the home. Both homes were built with two bedrooms on the entry level and three on the lower level, a large porch, partially screened, and a two-car garage, accessed through a spacious laundry room. Over the past few years however, the two couples have each brought unique ideas to the interiors of their homes, each drawing on their own thoughts of what a lakeside haven should be. The Kregers and the Nichols have, over the course of years, and with the help of a talented designer and collaborative team, brought their particular visions to very different realities.

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COLORFUL, UPDATED, FUN

Pam and Trip Kreger, Roanoke natives and high school sweethearts, fondly remember Smith Mountain Lake as an important touchstone for their lives together. They grew up coming to the lake, went on dates there as teenagers, and took their family there as adults. Pam and Trip own and run A.B. Kreger Company, a manufacturers’ representative company in Roanoke. They spent most of their time in Roanoke when their children were at home, but once their children were grown and launched their own careers, the Kregers began to feel the tug of the lake once again.

“We started taking picnics out to the lake on Fridays, and it wasn’t long before we wished we could stay the whole weekend,” says Pam. “I’m not a fan of camping, so we started looking for a place of our own.” The couple started with a small condo in Marina Bay, and realized they wanted more room for the entire family to be able to stay: parents, siblings, adult children, cousins and friends. The Island Green Pointe townhouse was a perfect fit.

Pam, who describes her home in Roanoke as “very traditional—lots of dark wood and Oriental carpets,” knew that she wanted a very different feel when furnishing and decorating their lake house. One of the first purchases the couple made for their place was a large color-saturated oil painting from local artist Mary Bullington to hang in their front hall. It was from this that Pam took her inspiration: “I saw that painting and thought: ‘Yes! I want vibrant colors like THIS at the lake!’”

Pam engaged the services of Emily Mangus of Emily Mangus Interiors Inc. in Roanoke to help her realize her vision of a fun, bright, and above all colorful space that would be a comfortable place for the family to gather. “I know what I like, but I’m not good at putting it all together— and I’m terrible at accessorizing,” says Pam. “Emily has been an enormous help.

She has such a good eye.”

To accomplish the dramatic pops of color that the Kregers were hoping for, Mangus and Pam decided to keep the walls and floors as neutral as possible to provide a backdrop—rather than competition—for the sun-drenched colors that Pam loves. The goal was to give the 1990s townhouse an updated feel. Mangus also helped the Kregers update fixtures to give the townhome a facelift without smlhomemaga zine .com 67

needing a full-scale renovation. Even the brick fireplace and kitchen cabinets were painted a creamy white to blend with the walls and trim. From the neutral backdrop, they slowly began to add the color, finding the right balance to suit the space.

The entry features two paintings: the Mary Bullington oil over a small table, and a watercolor by Julie Hamilton of the surrounding mountains on the back of the two-story central fireplace which divides the entry from the living room. The stairs to the lower level mirror the clean unfussy feel: simple white walls, an elegant light fixture with a rectangular shade, a gallery wall featuring a collection of ten black and white family photos identically framed and matted. Aside from the paintings, the only real pop of surprising color between the entry and the kitchen comes from the adjacent powder room, a bright happy space, papered in a bold Kelly-green geometric chosen by Roanoke designer Julie Lawrence, giving the room an outdoor garden feel. You almost have to look twice to see that there is no exterior window in the room.

The dining room and connecting living room also have a light and airy feel. The large masonry central fireplace supports the vaulted ceiling, but painted white, it blends with the surrounding walls, and is the perfect backdrop for the Courtney Cronin painting hanging over the mantel. The painting, commissioned by the Kregers, depicts the view from their back porch.

The seating in both the dining room and living rooms is comfortable, casual and definitely durable. The couch, rich cream piped in hot pink, looks impossibly clean for a busy 6 8

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family with a toddler and dogs, but here is where a decorator’s expertise comes in handy.

“We covered all the upholstered furniture with [performance] fabrics, even the dining room chairs,” says Mangus. “That way the Kregers never need to be worried about wet bathing suits or dirty paws.” The whitewashed Chippendale dining room chairs have bright pink cushions done in Osborne and Little outdoor fabric, and Pam achieves another pop of color with the matching bright yellow lamps on the buffet table set into the window.

The lighting in the kitchen, dining room, and living room is recessed, and hanging fixtures are simple and clean.

The Kregers’ view over the lake is stunning from every room, but perhaps it’s the most dramatic from the home’s generously sized porches. The porches face in a generally northward direction and thus give residents the chance to capture both the watercolor sunrises and vivid sunsets that Smith

Mountain Lake is known for, not to mention panoramic views of the lake. The open-air porch is perfect for grilling, and a covered, screened porch is Pam’s favorite spot. A polypropylene rug mimicking the look of seagrass, white synthetic wicker couches, a chair and twin ottomans all covered in Sunbrella fabric in a soft gray with accent pillows in bright greens and turquoise make the porch feel like a natural extension of the home—another “room” that just happens to have walls made of screen.

Plans for future changes to the home include more practical hardwood flooring and a bathroom overhaul on the lower level to give family and guests more privacy.

Mostly what Pam and Trip plan to do with their townhome is to enjoy it. “It’s such a great place to enjoy family time,” says Pam. “It is exactly what we’d hoped for and we are absolutely as happy as can be with our decision to settle at Water’s Edge.”

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THE NEW TWOSTORY STACKED STONE FIREPLACE IS THE FIRST THING VISITORS SEE WHEN THEY ARRIVE, THE GATHERING PLACE FOR THE NICHOLS’ FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AND THE MAIN DESIGN FEATURE THAT ANCHORS THE REST OF THE PROJECT.

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For Joel and Christy Nichols, the decision to settle at Water’s Edge seemed almost made from the start. Though they dutifully looked at lots of options, they kept coming back to the very first townhouse they looked at in 2014. “It was built in 1995 and had not been touched in 20 years,” says Christy. “It was like a blank canvas to us. We could make it our own.”

“It did have a very dated appearance,” Christy adds. “But we didn’t jump right into renovations.

We bought the townhome, and then lived in it for over a year.” During that time Joel and Christy kept exhaustive pages of notes detailing improvements and plans for every room of the house for an eventual complete renovation. They painstakingly planned for over year and a half before commencing the total overhaul. Bye-bye white walls, red brick masonry fireplace, and blue Formica … Hello to the spare aesthetic of what Joel describes as “European Mountain Lodge.”

From the very start, Joel and Christy were on the same page about what they were going for with their lake home renovation. When they discussed it, the same word occurred to both of them: Primland.

Primland is a 12,000-acre resort in Patrick County, and is a long-time client of Joel’s insurance firm, Scott Insurance. Like many such upscale resorts in far-flung places, Primland has cultivated its own unique identity, entertaining guests while blending seamlessly into the natural setting with contemporary rustic features such as stacked stone fireplaces, lots of exposed natural wood, rock, and soothing earthy colors. “Primland has been a special place for us,” says Christy. “Lots of memories have been made there and we love the feel of the place. It seemed natural that we’d think of Primland when we were looking for inspiration for a project like this.”

The Nichols turned to an all-star cast to make their 17 months of planning a reality, including Lee S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

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Ann Carter of Carter’s Cabinets, Paula Smith Linkous of Paula Smith Linkous Interiors, Craig Balzer of Balzer and Associates, Ronnie Nolan of US Stone, Sally Lauren Nichols of SLN Design, and designer Emily Mangus who also helped with the Kregers’ design. For the renovation, they removed several walls in the upstairs living area, reworked the footprints and design of all the bathrooms and closets, and transformed a dowdy older townhome to a breathtakingly beautiful new space of simple clean lines and welcoming natural details.

Thanks to all the Nichols’ careful planning, once the project got rolling, it only took four and a half months to finish.

The centerpiece of the whole thing was the soaring two-story stacked stone fireplace reminiscent of the fireplace at Primland. It replaced the original brick fireplace that made up the central structure of the home. This new fireplace would be the first thing visitors saw when they arrived, the gathering place for the Nichols’ family and friends, and the main design feature that would anchor the rest of the project. Building it took time and careful attention to detail. “It was definitely a process,” says Christy. “I came almost every day and worked with Ronnie Nolan of US Stone on stone selection for the design and construction.” For example, on the lower level, the stone is more gray, and on the ground floor it has more chocolate tones.

Along with Nolan, and using 14 tons of rock quarried from the same location as the stone used at Primland, Christy helped to create what she calls “the biggest piece of art I will ever make.”

Interior designer Emily Mangus was on hand to help the couple realize their dream of a lake home that felt like Primland—but also like a home—by helping the Nichols select artwork, lighting and furnishings. “Emily’s help was critical,” says Joel. “A theme like ours, of Primland, a European mountain lodge, is naturally going to have a more masculine feel. Emily really helped us to add color and softness in just the right places. Our place would be nowhere near as complete without her input.” ºOver his years in the insurance business, Joel has, in addition to Primland, claimed several Virginia and North Carolina furniture companies as clients. When it came time to furnish the lake house, he reached out to his contacts at Bassett, Hooker and Century.

Joel and Christy prioritized buying furniture made in the United States, and designers Linkous and Mangus helped them select pieces of outstanding quality that create the “Primland feel” in every room. Perhaps the 7 2

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most outstanding example of this is the dining room table. Made of a solid piece of striated wood with a live edge, the table is a functional piece of art as well as a special memory. “Jeb Bassett is a client and good friend,” says Joel. “He’s also in charge of global wood. When I explained what Christy and I were doing, he invited her to the factory in Bassett, put out 12 slabs of solid oak tops, and let her choose.” The table was custom, or “bench made” right there in the factory and Christy got to watch every step of its creation. “Getting to be part of the process was so meaningful, especially since it was made by friends,” says Christy.

The kitchen cabinets, and indeed all of the custom cabinetry throughout the home, are made of walnut and fabricated

by Carter’s Cabinets in Roanoke. Joel and Christy went separately to Carters to look at cabinet materials but ended up picking the exact same walnut finish. “We knew we wanted the natural wood tones,” says Joel. “We were trying to replicate that Primland feel.” That focus kept the couple on the same page. The cabinetry is enhanced by natural stone countertops, made of leathered granite in Absolute

Sweet Pea s

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Black with a live edge. The kitchen’s sleek brushed nickel faucets and door handles are in keeping with the understated simplicity that the Nichols favor, picking up the silvers and greys in the fireplace stone and metal cording used on the staircase to the lower level.

The large open living room is the gathering space of the home. Christy chose coordinating geometric neutral carpets to tie the space with the adjoining dining room. Here, the fireplace dominates. Since Joel and Christy consider the stone itself to be art, they have consciously chosen not to put anything above the antique beam repurposed as a mantel. “We want all eyes on the beauty of the stone,” says Christy. “I look at that rock every day, and I still notice something I didn’t notice before.”

Recessed into the ceiling on either side of the fireplace are giant rustic beams and cross ties, the kind you’d see in an old barn. Here they have the effect of framing the top of the stone creation and drawing the eyes upward. The presence of wood at ceiling height in the living room and dining room brings a warm, natural feel to the upper recesses of the room.

Primland has an elegant fireplace in the Lodge lobby, according to Joel, and it has a unique design: a single flame running down the middle of a bed of glass beads. The Nichols’ fireplace is also striking. The single row of flame is enhanced by tiny shards of black glass that make up the bed of the fire.

There’s a comfortable tweed sofa and a leather chair. Doubling as seating and occasional tables are two hair-on-hide stools that Christy spotted one day. “I saw them and immediately knew I had to have them,” she says. “They were just a lucky find.” Behind the sofa is a functional piece of local art: a sofa table made out of walnut from Berkley County, West Virginia and repurposed railroad parts from the Norfolk-Southern Railway.

Aside from the stone fireplace transformation, perhaps the most dramatic change has occurred on the townhome’s covered porch. Though it had a straight view of the shimmering lake beyond, the room’s original screen when the Nichols first purchased the home had been replaced with a DIY four-seasons adaptation: sheets of plate glass held in place by shoe molding.

It was hot in the summer and too chilly in the winter. “I called it the ‘Mason jar,’” laughs Christy. During the big renovation, the Nichols replaced all the decking and at the same time decided to convert the space back to a screened-in porch. “What we really wanted was fresh air and no bugs!” says Christy. The furniture is simple and comfortable, and doesn’t appear to be outdoor furniture at all. The cushions on the sofa have the look and feel of leather, and yet are—along with the upholstered chair and ottoman—made of fabric designed for the outdoors. It’s a space made for enjoyment: comfortable without feeling fussy, a relaxed room that allows the lake view to take center stage.

The Kregers and the Nichols may have arrived at Water’s Edge for similar reasons. They may have purchased identically built townhomes in close proximity to each other. Yet their homes have become the canvas for very different visions of what a lakeside retreat looks like: one full of lively color and vibrant textures, the other exuding a sense of the ethereal calm and the earth-toned serenity of a mountain retreat. In the process, these friends have lovingly crafted gathering places for their family, friends, and yes, each other, that they will enjoy for many years to come. ✦

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antique, vintage and used… oh my!

SHOPPING SECONDHAND FOR THE HOME

BY MARISSA HERMANSON

Vintage furniture and decor can add much-needed character to a home, giving your space a collected and worldly feel. By decorating with items you’ve purchased secondhand, you also are helping out Mother Nature by embracing the practice of upcycling. It’s a win-win!

Not sure how to buy vintage? From questions about quality and makers to value and price-point, buying heirlooms can be daunting. Here are a few pro tips to help you navigate the vast world of secondhand goods.

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SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE VINTAGE RETAILERS ANTIQUE MALL AT MAYBERRY 1170 Celebration Avenue Moneta, VA 540-297-7770 FABULOUS FINDS 361 Scruggs Road Moneta, VA 540-719-0670 GOODWILL 13697 Booker T. Washington Highway, Suite 100 Moneta, VA 540-719-1503 OLDE MILL PRIMITIVES 1167 Wildcat Road Goodview, VA 540-890-6455 QUEEN BEE CONSIGNMENTS 12126 Old Franklin Turnpike Union Hall, VA 540-576-1568 RECLAIMED 14190 Booker T. Washington Highway Moneta, VA 540-719-1670 SARAH’S PLACE ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES 13105 South Old Moneta Road Moneta, VA 540-296-1676 SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE DISCOVERY SHOP 400 Scruggs Road, Suite 500 Moneta, VA 540-721-0050 VIRGINIA FOUND GOODS 710 Pocket Road Hurt, VA 908-627-6272

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Know where to go

There are a wide variety of venues to buy used furniture and decor. Take some time to scope out the area’s offerings, perusing vendors at places like the Antique Mall at Mayberry and inspecting the goods at local shops like Fabulous Finds and Smith Mountain Lake Discovery Shop. Think flea markets, estate sales and architectural salvage yards too.

Look to see if any local nonprofits have shops. Quite a few community organizations have thrift stores filled with all sorts of treasures. Locally, the Moneta Goodwill accepts quality donations ranging from clothing to household items, and they sell these secondhand goods at reasonable prices. It’s doubly beneficial to shop at venues like Goodwill because the money you spend at the shop goes back to the community, supporting those in need by providing services like job training.

Make a plan

furniture and home decor

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When perusing a flea market or an antique mall, you very easily can be overwhelmed by all the amazing gadgets and dozens of vendors if you don't know what you are looking for. Without a game plan you can fall prey to spending extra money and bringing home things you don’t necessarily need. If you’re asking yourself, “Do I really need this punchbowl and dozen matching cups for $100?” The answer is probably no.

When shopping vintage, it pays off to makes purchases with intention. Come up with a plan before you start your spree by creating a shopping list and deciding on a budget.

Do your research

Do your due diligence before you start shopping. Look up what the piece of furniture or decor is selling for online on big e-tailers like eBay, Etsy and Chairish. This will help give you context on cost and help you understand if a shop is over- or underpricing its inventory. For instance, if you see a jadeite vase on eBay for $40 and then see a very similar one at a local shop for $65, it might be overpriced, depending upon what the eBay vendor would charge for shipping. Another note: make sure you research not only what items are listed for online, but what they sell for, which will give you a more accurate sense of market value.

Beyond cost, do some research on the item itself. If you are in the market for a midcentury credenza, know who the big manufacturers and designers are of the era. And be sure to look up what kind of materials make for a quality credenza from that time period. (We suggest wood like walnut and teak.)

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Or if you are on the hunt for European antiques, brush up on periods and the characteristics and materials that define that era.

You’ll be better able to find what you need and ask the right questions if you come equipped with some knowledge.

If you don’t know much about what you are looking for, that’s okay too. Come armed with questions. Tap a shop owner or antique dealer for their knowledge, and they’ll be able to help answer all your questions.

Look for markdowns and sales

You wouldn’t be a savvy shopper if you didn’t look for deals. Some shops and estate specialists mark down vintage pieces after they’ve been sitting on the floor for some period of time. At estate sales, it pays to wait until the last day to get the item at a discounted price. Inquire with the seller if prices are firm or if they mark down inventory after a certain amount of time.

It’s always worth it to inquire with the shop owner if there is a “best price” for an item too.

Avoid haggling over price point, but a respectful negotiation over the value of goods is usually welcome. Some vendors may give you a better deal if you buy multiple items. You are also likely to get a better deal if you pay with cash. ✦

with questions. Tap a shop owner or antique dealer for their knowledge, and they’ll be able to help answer all your questions.

Look for markdowns and sales You wouldn’t be a savvy shopper if you didn’t look for deals.

Some shops and estate specialists mark down vintage pieces after they’ve been sitting on the floor for a few weeks. Inquire with the seller if prices are firm or if they mark down inventory after a certain amount of time.

It’s always worth it to inquire Sunday with the shop owner if there is Closed a “best price” for the item too. Avoid haggling over price point, but a respectful negotiation over the value of goods is usually welcome. ✦

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one of a kind design

GETAWAY HOME REFLECTS FAMILY’S AESTHETICS B Y R YA N T I P P S P h oto g r a p hy by M i c h a e l P atc h

W

hen Jenua and Marty Nester set out to build their dream home at Smith Mountain Lake, uniqueness was their guiding principle, manifesting in a place where dark and light designs blend seamlessly, accessibility and openness dominate, heirloom furniture strategically dots various rooms, and the opportunity for relaxation is nurtured. From the layout to the design scheme to the choice of accents, it all has emerged from under that conceptual umbrella of uniqueness, giving the Nesters’ home across the cove from Bernard’s Landing in Franklin County an engagingly personal touch.

But perhaps one of the most unique aspects of all took no construction to achieve: The 4-acre lot the couple purchased in 2014 is on an amazingly flat piece of land, situated with a view of each sunrise coming up over the mountains.

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“THERE WERE A LOT OF THINGS ABOUT FINDING THAT PARTICULAR PIECE OF LOT THAT WE WERE LOOKING FOR,” MARTY SAYS. “WE PROBABLY SPENT MORE TIME LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT PROPERTY THAN WE DID THAN WORRYING ABOUT THE HOUSE ITSELF.” The Nesters, who live full time in Mount Airy, North Carolina, have family members who have owned property at Smith Mountain Lake for more than 20 years, so they have long been familiar with the area. Finding the right spot for their lake home was critical; in fact, their first option fell through, but they later landed upon their current lot.

Marty knew this was the ideal location while he was at the lake for a fishing tournament. The wee hours of the morning during that event offered him an opportunity, so he asked his fishing partner to motor down the lake a bit so that he could see how the sunrise hit the land.

“We wanted to be able to have a view of the mountains when the sun comes up and wanted a bit of privacy, which we got with the 4 acres and the hardwood trees around us,” he says. It was perfect.

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First impressions

The house that was on this property when the Nesters bought it was built around 1970 and fell far short of what the couple could call a dream home. The building was razed, and architect Eric Buck of Comprehensive Home Design Inc. was hired to mastermind the 5,400 square feet of comfort and creativity that the Nesters now have.

It had to have lots of windows facing the water, be primarily designed as onelevel living, and have a big kitchen for Jenua to do the cooking she loves so much.

“Eric came up with a great initial drawing, and we personalized it from there,” she says.

The Nesters sifted through countless design catalogs over a span of several months to land the look they wanted.

Approaching the home, it’s clear from the exterior that this is a home that stands apart. A wide brick driveway opens to the front of the home, which features stonework, a wooden double-door entryway, and three wooden garage doors that the Nesters stained to match the front door.

“Like everything in the house, it was hours and hours of researching to get to the design we wanted,” Marty says.

Distinctive, too, is the use of presidential shake shingles for the roof — a kind of asphalt shingle that looks like a shake. It’s three layers thick and very heavy, but the Nesters love this kind of look (and the shingle has a lifetime guarantee).

“It’s a shingle that we were familiar with when we built our house in Mount Airy 14 years ago,” Marty says. “We think it does a lot to help set off the house.”

Around back, the Nesters got everything they wanted with the array of windows facing the lake. Every room that looks out over the water was set up to have a stunning view. The stone accents carry around to the side of the house, and a slate patio with elegant wicker furniture, coupled with the shade of a large peaked overhang, presents an inviting gathering place for family and friends.

To take lake living to the next level, Marty and Jenua created a secondary focal point outside: a non-traditional stone fire pit with a dark-wood trellis that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. More wicker furniture, a grill, and a large fireplace bring warmth and a sense of easiness to outdoor conversations. smlhomemaga zine .com 83

“We were looking for a place to do our outdoor grilling, and we didn’t want it up on the patio itself,” Marty says. “So, we decided to step off the patio and build this area. We felt the fireplace would blend in a lot better with the look of the house rather than doing a simple fire pit.”

The heat from the fire has helped make this a spot the Nesters can use year-round.

In fact, in the winter months, the firepit is the only area where they leave their furniture outside, assuring that it gets used a lot in the off-season.

With all this space, it’s easy to wonder if any one spot is more special than the next. Mostly, though, the answer is no.

“I don’t have any special place around here, aside from the fact that my special place is simply being outside,” Marty says.

Dark and light unite

The Nesters are at their lake house every other week for a few days, and having their home on Tranquility Lane be a destination for family has been important.

During a recent Fourth of July holiday, the couple hosted 16 of Jenua’s family members overnight, which means that all four bedrooms, three full baths and two powder rooms got heavy use.

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STEPPING INSIDE, IT’S EASY TO SEE HOW THE VIEWS OF THE LAKE OPEN UP FROM ALMOST EVERY SPOT IN THE HOME. A LONG, HIGH-CEILINGED LIVING ROOM SPILLS OUT ONTO THE PATIO TOWARD THE WATER. AN ENTERTAINMENT CENTER STRETCHING ACROSS ONE WALL MAKES FOR A WONDERFUL SPOT TO RELAX. “Our plan from the start was to have a house big enough to where we could have our families come up and have plenty of room for everyone,” Marty says.

Stepping inside, it’s easy to see how the views of the lake open up from almost every spot in the home. A long, high-ceilinged living room spills out onto the patio toward the water. An entertainment center stretching across one wall makes for a wonderful spot to relax.

It’s in this room, too, where some of the design themes become apparent. Dark wood is contrasted by gray walls and white trim around windows, part of a strategy to have a neutral look to the interior color scheme, so as to open a wealth of possibilities for other colors to be incorporated into artwork, bedding and other accessories.

“I had seen a lot of color schemes, probably three or four years ago, that were gray and some taupes or browns, and I love those colors together,” Jenua says. “That was what I had in mind when we first started talking about designing the house.”

Miranda Dudley of Designer Solutions helped the Nesters bring their entire look together. With her guidance, they found ways of using rugs and pillows to splash purples and blues throughout. “[Jenua] loved it when I would find something that ushered in a bit of sparkle to a room, something that was elegant and eye-catching,” Dudley says.

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Elsewhere in the house, the spacious kitchen mirrors this dark-and-light theme, with bright cabinets and tiling nestled into the walls, juxtaposed by the darker cabinetry and sink fixtures on the kitchen’s island. Nearby hangs a wall sculpture that the Nesters purchased in North Carolina; it features pieces of driftwood set into a spiral pattern, with coloration that helps bring the home’s exterior stone look into this indoor gathering area.

Much of the Nesters’ time indoors is spent in the keeping room, where another cozy seating area surrounds a stone fireplace and wall-mounted television.

Next to it, the dining area uses brightly colored furniture to stand out from the dark-wood flooring.

The dining table here has history, having once been in Jenua’s grandparents’ house (her grandfather had worked at a furniture factory in Galax during an era when southern Virginia was booming with furniture and textile manufacturing).

When the Nesters brought the table and chairs to the lake house, they had them refinished and reupholstered, and a local woodworker was able to make copies of the chairs and create two extras with arms on them. They are now able to seat

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DESIGN SERVICES • Kitchen & Baths • Countertops & Tile • Sinks & Faucets • Flooring & Lighting • Installation Services

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eight around the table, perfect for when larger numbers of family members are visiting.

Other pieces of furniture throughout the home are antiques, including the buffet in one hall, and a red dresser and a desk in their daughter’s bedroom. Some accent chairs were brought in from Jenua’s mother’s house in Blacksburg, and a rolltop desk in Marty’s office was discovered in an old factory building that was purchased for his business.

Couple these things with other flourishes, such as Marty’s idea to put barrel ceilings in the master bedroom and bath, and the Nesters have been able to create something that’s uniquely theirs. The home’s styling stood out so much that it was featured on the 2019 Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour, and the couple said that they received many compliments on each of the elements—both big and small—that they selected.

“A lot of research went into everything, from the exterior to the interior,” Jenua says. And it shows. ✦

Look for our other local publications! cvhomemagazine.com rvhomemagazine.com

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GARDEN mulch

mulch matters

THE MANY BENEFITS FOR LAKESIDE LANDSCAPES

M

BY R O RY R H O D E S

ulch offers a host of landscape perks. In the warmer months, it helps prevent weeds and slows evaporation, thereby conserving water. In cooler months, it acts as a blanket against the cold and fills in gaps once the showier features of the garden have faded. Year-round, mulch can help prevent erosion, while organic mulch also enriches soil as it breaks down. In addition to its landscape benefits, mulch is visually pleasing, offering a tidy, finished look. There are several different ways to go when adding mulch to your garden. You can buy either natural or artificial mulch, or use materials that are already available in your yard.

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Free mulch

If your property has mature trees, you have a fine source of free seasonal mulch. For a heavily wooded property, there’s little point in mulching before the leaves have fallen—any mulch you buy will be covered up, and besides, with all of the organic material raining down it’s both practical and environmentally sound to use what you have. Don’t bag it and your landfill will thank you; don’t burn it and your neighbors will thank you. Leaves are a natural mulch that can both protect your plants and amend your soil; they are full of nutrients such as potassium, carbon, and phosphorous and, if you have heavy clay soil, they will help to lighten it over time.

As we all know, leaves will blow around in dry blustery weather, while in wet weather whole leaves can compact into a mat and prevent rain from penetrating, so it’s important to shred them before adding to your garden. One of the easiest ways to do this while also cleaning up your yard is to mow the fallen leaves. This works best with a limited amount of material, as heavy leaf fall will overwhelm most mowers. For bigger jobs, a leaf vacuum is invaluable. It looks like a push mower, but the blades shred the leaves into a large-capacity bag. There are also vacuum attachments for ride-on mowers.

It’s perfectly fine to include grass clippings with shredded leaves, as they will break down quickly and add further nutrients. Just don’t use too much, since a thick layer of grass can get wet and moldy.

One further warning: Grass that has weed killers or pesticides can carry those ingredients into your garden beds and damage plants.

Pine needles are great for mulch, though again they can blow around if used on their own. They are somewhat acidic but become more neutral as they break down, so unless you’re working them directly into your soil, your plants likely won’t be affected.

And of course, if you have a compost pile, compost makes an ideal mulch. Whichever mulch you use, remove any dead branches on shrubs and

any faded blooms before spreading. This will ensure your garden beds look neat throughout the season.

Natural mulch

If you don’t have your own raw material available, or you prefer to purchase landscaping mulch, there are various options. Shredded hardwood bark is often a byproduct of lumber and paper industries, ergo part of the recycling process. Wood chips, or bark nuggets, are another alternative. They are slow to break down and will last longer than shredded bark, but they do float and can wash away in heavy rain. Both bark and chips are available in multiple colors, including shades of red, brown and black. If you have pets, be aware that dark mulch might stain their paws and potentially track into the house.

Straw is mostly used for vegetable gardens and does a good job of controlling mud. Just be sure there are no seeds in it, or come spring they’ll turn into weeds.

Mulch alternatives

For homeowners wanting a long-lasting mulch, rubber mulch—made from recycled tires—is one option. While it won’t host termites or nuisance pests, it also won’t host beneficial bugs. Nor does it improve your soil; in fact, it’s more likely to leach chemicals into your garden. Add to that the fact that it is flammable, and rubber is generally not recommended by landscapers as a mulch material.

Pea gravel, however, makes a fine alternative to organic mulch. Not to be confused with regular gravel, pea gravel has a smooth, round shape and comes in various earthy tones. Its attractive appearance makes it a great choice for both garden beds and paths. While it won’t decompose, it will get hotter than organic mulch, so be careful with delicate plants or in hot areas of your garden. It also does best with some sort of edging to prevent it from escaping its borders over time.

Slopes

Many properties around SML have at least some slope. Be aware that if your grade is more than six

NO MATTER WHICH KIND YOU CHOOSE, A BLANKET OF MULCH WILL ENHANCE YOUR CURB AND LAKESIDE APPEAL, AND MAKE FOR HAPPY PLANTS NOW AND INTO THE NEXT GROWING SEASON.

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percent, wood chips and bark nuggets will wash away when it rains, so avoid using either here. Shredded bark or pine needles are more likely to stay put; in fact, pine needles and wheat straw can help control erosion on slopes. If you have a very steep slope and are looking to establish or reestablish vegetation, you may need to put down straw and hold it in place with netting, or a peg and twine system. Where possible, terracing slopes will help retain both mulch and plants.

How much mulch?

If you’re mulching more than a small area, it’s better to order a delivery than lugging home bags of mulch from the garden center. Local nurseries and landscape businesses often sell mulch by the pallet or scoop. A scoop of mulch is generally about 1.25 cubic yards, giving you about 120 square feet of coverage, and one cubic yard of mulch will cover a 10-by-10-foot area with roughly three inches of material. Make sure not to pile it up around the base of trees, where it can cause decay and damage.

No matter which kind you choose, a blanket of mulch will enhance your curb and lakeside appeal, and make for happy plants now and into the next growing season. Whether you use what you have from your garden, or buy an attractive finishing touch from your local landscape business, it’s always a good time to tackle this important garden project. ✦

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DESIGN wicker

WHAT ABOUT

WICKER?

add texture and style to any room B Y TAY LO R H O R VAT H

Have you considered adding a wicker piece to your home? Even beyond the sunroom, wicker furnishings can work in nearly any home design.

From wicker accent chairs and coffee tables to dining chairs and baskets, wicker can add an extra sense of style and texture to your home, whatever your aesthetic.

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What is wicker, anyway?

We casually use the term wicker all the time, but do you really know what it means? The true definition may surprise you. After all, wicker is used to describe many types of products—furniture, home accessories, shoes, and even handbags. What you might not know is that wicker is not a specific material but rather the name of a weaving process; the term itself derives from a Scandinavian word meaning “to bend.” And though the terms wicker and rattan are often used interchangeably, they are not to be confused: Rattan is actually a material, made from climbing palm. It is often used in the construction of wicker pieces.

Real or faux

To further complicate the wicker discussion, options include “real” wicker and “faux” wicker. At first glance at a product, you may not be able to tell the difference. “Real wicker is typically a natural product made from wood,” explains Ginnie Vaughan, general manager of National Pools of Roanoke, Inc. “Faux wicker is a manmade product, typically made from resin.” Natural wicker can also be made from rattan, willow, sea grass and raffia.

The popularity of real wicker has taken off, due to the elasticity and comfort, as well as the room it holds for creativity in the weave pattern.

Although natural wicker has become popular, synthetic wicker still takes the lead and is the most commonly used.

Because it is made from resins extracted from plant material and hardened permanently, synthetic wicker is very durable for outside use. Of course, you’ll want to take precautions to protect your wicker and keep it fresh as long as possible. Vaughan says, “Real wicker will last longer if it is kept indoors, out of any harmful weather elements. If natural wicker is kept outside, it tends to get brittle and break,” she says. “Faux wicker can be kept indoors or outdoors, and it holds up well in different types of elements. Typically, moisture and sunlight do not have a negative impact on faux wicker.”

Wicker for every space

Wicker is an easy choice for outdoor spaces—in patio chairs and couches, sometimes an outdoor sectional with a pool and firepit nearby. It’s often seen in covered patio designs as well. It so easily achieves that relaxed, on-vacation vibe.

Vaughan shares some current wicker trends in which comfort reigns. “Wicker furniture is popular in deep-seating collections with cushions,” she says. “Sofas, loveseats, rockers, ottomans, chaise lounges, et cetera, are very popular items, constructed from resin wicker. Resin wicker has also expanded into dining sets, bar sets, porch swings, and accessory pieces such as fire pits, credenzas, and cushion boxes.”

Josie Long, interior designer at Interiors by Kris, shares some of her favorite ways to use wicker inside. “Incorporating wicker furniture into a room design is a great way to add texture and contrast,” says Long. “I love to use wicker accents in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms, but they can be used in really any area of the home.”

Long says that designing with wicker adds texture and contrast to a room. “Mixing patterns and materials gives layered depth to the senses, both sight and touch, creating an aesthetically pleasing space,” she says. And wicker isn’t just for the substantial heavy hitters like couches and lounge chairs. Some of Long’s favorite wicker accents include mirrors, ottomans, stools and accent 9 4

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tables. She adds, “Wicker headboards and dining chairs are also fun to use in design implementation. When using wicker indoors, I recommend using it as pops of texture, rather than full-blown wicker everything.”

Wicker care

The key to keeping your wicker fresh, clean, and lasting for years is to take good care of it.

“Good, quality wicker can last up to several years outdoors, if properly maintained,” says Vaughan. “Cleaning the resin with a soap and water mixture and a soft bristle brush as needed will help keep the surfaces clean and reduce mildew.

Covering the wicker with a furniture cover in the off-season will also prolong the life of the furniture.”

Vaughan also recommends investing in wicker for the long haul; as with most things, you get what you pay for. “There are definitely different grades or quality of outdoor furniture, so I recommend buying from a reputable store and manufacturer.”

As for keeping your indoor pieces in good shape, says Long, keep up with “dusting as needed.” A soft brush attachment on your vacuum can help with that task. ✦

WICKER IS AN EASY CHOICE FOR OUTDOOR SPACES—IN PATIO CHAIRS AND COUCHES, SOMETIMES AN OUTDOOR SECTIONAL WITH A POOL AND FIREPIT NEARBY. IT’S OFTEN SEEN IN COVERED PATIO DESIGNS AS WELL. IT SO EASILY ACHIEVES THAT RELAXED, ONVACATION VIBE.

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ready to rent

BEST PRACTICES FOR RENTING TO LONG- AND SHORT-TERM VISITORS B Y C H U C K TAY LO R

H

ome is where the heart is, yes, but now more than at any point in the past 50 years, property owners are also sharing their digs as long-term renters, while also sharing their space with short-term guests. Two active trends are at work here. Pew Research Center notes that the number of households renting their homes in traditional fashion, as landlords, is currently a mighty 36.6 percent—just a smidgeon below the historic peak of 37 percent in 1965.

In addition, Airbnb has created the fortuitous short-term rental economy.

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The company began humbly enough 10 years ago in San Francisco, with the intent of creating a website for city guests to connect with homeowners willing to lend an air mattress to combat the high cost of lodging. Today, Airbnb offers 5 million listings in 191 countries, with accommodations that exceed the top five major hotel brands combined.

The number of listings for shortterm rentals in the Old Dominion has grown 172 percent between 2016 and 2018, while the Smith Mountain Lake community boasts some 236 Airbnb properties.

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It goes without saying that our “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains” is a sought-after destination for vacationers, with world-class fishing, boating, Smith Mountain Lake State Park and 20,000 acres of water along 500 miles of shoreline. For traditional vacation renters, the community offers a multitude of cabins and cottages, lodges and inns, B&Bs and golf resorts—even houseboats!—for rent.

Traditional rentals

For those looking to rent out their homes, the Smith Mountain marketplace certainly remains robust, although make no mistake, there is no shortage of inventory. Residential growth has been ticking along at a steady clip since the mid-1980s, with increasingly upscale lakefront houses, condos and multi-housing communities situated on golf courses. Commuters are drawn to the municipality from surrounding Roanoke, Lynchburg and Forest, while Smith Mountain Lake has also become a retirement haven, with its idyllic climate, water and cost of living luring many to relocate from the Northeast.

Converting your space into a rental property for the longer haul requires, shall we say, a brave transformation. The most important mandate: Recognize that your property is no longer your home. Let’s review essential tips and tools that will lead you to prosperity.

First, remove all personal effects. Clocks are great; your “I’d Rather Be Golfing” sign, not so much. Declutter and then declutter some more.

Next, begin a checklist that goes something like this: Apply a fresh layer of paint on the walls as well as trim where necessary; check/replace heating and air conditioning filters; clean windows and sliding doors; if necessary, have carpets professionally cleaned. Get those cobwebs off of ceiling fans.

Another imperative: All appliances should be in good working order, including the washer and dryer, dishwasher, sink disposal, hot water heater, and the HVAC system. If you haven’t painted your baseboards, give them a thorough scrub along with showers, bathtubs and all bathroom fixtures.

“Rent-ready” means that the property has been cleaned, repaired or remodeled, and that it’s in habitable condition for new tenants, according to Zillow. This real estate resource offers an online checklist to make sure you are ready to put your house out there, including even more practical matters. First, re-key all outside doors, but even more savvy, add numeric code locks to the home.

Not only is this convenient for your renters, but your master code will allow you to enter the property as well when the need arises. Consider smlhomemaga zine .com 97

THE NUMBER OF LISTINGS FOR SHORTTERM RENTALS IN THE OLD DOMINION HAS GROWN 172 PERCENT BETWEEN 2016 AND 2018, WHILE THE SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE COMMUNITY BOASTS SOME 236 AIRBNB PROPERTIES.

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installing energy-efficient bulbs throughout the home, which reduce costs and don’t need to be replaced as often.

It is worth considering bringing in a professional cleaner who may be able to see beyond your own vision of “tidy and neat,” from scrubbing baseboards to cleaning out the refrigerator and oven.

Now let’s move outdoors. First impressions are fundamental to impressing a potential renter to feel like your house could be their home.

Here too Zillow provides a checklist which includes cutting the grass, trimming the bushes, pruning the trees, pulling the weeds, fixing broken sprinkler heads, replacing dead or dying shrubbery, and adding some new flowering plants to flower beds for curb appeal.

In addition, clean, repair or replace screens.

Torn screens not only allow pests into your rental property, but they also make your home look shabby.

And in the better-safe-than-sorry column, it’s always a good idea to professionally spray for pests, before there’s an actual problem with bugs or insects, inside and out.

Smith Mountain Lake has a bounty of real estate agents that handle rental properties, given its appeal as a vacation marketplace. But if you decide to manage your own property, vet your tenants by asking for previous rental history, references, a background check and credit check, and, of course, a deposit at signing.

It’s also essential for homeowners who are renting their house rather than occupying it to make sure a current homeowner’s insurance policy transforms into a renters’ policy. In addition, it’s perfectly reasonable to also require that your tenants obtain their own rental insurance.

Other things to consider as you welcome new occupants: What is your pet policy, and will you require a pet deposit? When it comes to maintaining the yard, make sure tenants know if it their responsibility or if you as landlord are handling this task. Utilities are other aspects that need to be worked out: who pays for what? If something goes awry—the AC is out, the fridge is on the fritz—do tenants call for repairs and bill you, or do you reach out to your own trusted vendors?

The payoff of short-term rentals

The short-term rental realm is a bit of a different animal. The platform offers two distinct options: a “home stay,” where you as homeowner hand over the keys to your renter with you living elsewhere for that period of time; and the second—more adventurous—“home share,” where you remain present in your home during guests’ stay, offering private bedrooms and baths, typically alongside privileges to enjoy the public spaces, kitchen and outdoors.

The phenomenon has become such a success since Airbnb gained global traction that the marketplace now includes a number of competitors. Booking.com, Homeaway/VRBO and MisterB&B are prominent, while Expedia also now includes short-term stay properties.

Airbnb homes are available on Smith Mountain Lake for as little as $69 a night for a mountain cottage that holds six guests. There are also lakefront condos, cottages, farmhouses and more in the area’s rental market.

To have success as a host on Airbnb, listings must set themselves apart, given Smith Mountain Lake’s bounty as a vacation destination.

What makes your home stand out from the competitive lakefront property or inn down the

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road? Indulge in professional-grade photography indoors and outdoors, and as your listing picks up steam, encourage reviews from your guests.

A few more details: As a homeowner sharing your principal residence, it is essential to replace your traditional front door key-lock with an electronic keypad. It’s easy enough to refresh the code for each new visitor.

Communication is a big deal on Airbnb, and you are held accountable in your reviews. As soon as guests book, welcome them, and let them know you’re present to answer questions. It’s a good idea to check in again two days before their arrival to obtain an estimated time of arrival.

Also, assemble a “Guest Handbook” to familiarize guests with your home and the area. Their first question is likely to be: What’s the Wifi password? If you are operating a home share, maintain a private password for yourself, and create a simple password for guests. Also, offer information about nearby grocery stores, drug stores, urgent medical care facilities and your favorite restaurants by cuisine. Provide takeout menus and brochures of local attractions.

And among must-haves for your guests: fluffy white towels and washcloths; shampoo, conditioner and body wash; a blow dryer; an iron and ironing board; tissues and plenty of toilet paper.

After following these tips and tools for both short-term visitors and longer-term renters, simply ask yourself the question: Does this feel like home to me? If you are able to smile and nod, it’s quite likely your tenants will also consider Smith Mountain their refuge, either now or for the long haul. ✦

As a part of the Smith Mountain Lake community for more than 30 years, our agents’ mastery of the local market will surely find you the property of your dreams. Call or visit us today and work with consistent leaders in sales and service, backed by a company you can trust.

www.SmithMtnLake.com • 540-721-8659 ©2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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LIVE outdoor games

fun and games

DITCH THE ELECTRONICS AND UNWIND WITH OLD-SCHOOL FUN

BY CHRIST Y RIPPEL

Time at the lake is a chance to forget the stresses of everyday life and connect with friends and family. If you’ve noticed that the only connection is through the WiFi, there are many outdoor games that foster a sense of teamwork and competitive spirit, and are a fun alternative to time on the water. So tell your group to give Candy Crush and Fortnite a break, power down the devices, and get moving!

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Beach and lawn games

There are many possibilities for outdoor games that don’t require big swaths of land, and can be enjoyed equally on a small sandy patch near the water (if you’re lucky enough to have one), or in the grass, enjoying a killer lake view while you wait your turn.

Badminton: A summer Olympic sport, this racket game is distinguished from its cousins by the shuttlecock, a plastic object that is hit over a net. The formal version of the game is indoors, but it’s often played on the beach or in backyards.

Only two or four players are needed for a singles or doubles match; score points by striking a shuttlecock and landing it within the opposing team’s half of the court. If you want to get technical, games are played to a score of 21, with players scoring a point when they win a rally, regardless of who served. A match is the best of three games.

Equipment needed: A portable net, badminton rackets and shuttlecocks.

Oversized checkers: Playing checkers outdoors on a large-scale board is a fun alternative to this traditional rainy day game, and even the smallest players can learn the easy rules. Divide into two teams, or play one-on-one. Oversized, outdoor versions of many old-school games have found a following, so if checkers isn’t your favorite, go for oversized dice games, Jenga or Connect 4.

Equipment needed: Oversized outdoor versions of your favorite indoor games are readily available at retail, or make your own checkerboard and pieces with cardboard and paint or markers.

Gaga Ball: Gaga Ball fever has spread faster than a virus in a kindergarten class, and for good reason. A kinder, gentler version of dodgeball, Gaga doesn’t require great athletic skill. The decadesold game that is believed to have originated in Israel (Gaga means “touch, touch” in Hebrew) can be played in a permanent or portable hexagon or octagon pit about 15 to 25 feet wide with walls under 30 inches high. It can be on grass, blacktop, sand or wood chips. Players start with one hand touching a wall, and a lightweight ball (like the one used for kickball) is dropped in the center. Someone then slaps the ball underhand, attempting to hit the other players on or below the knee to eliminate them from the pit. It’s more of an investment than most other games, but the hours of fun just might be worth it. Equipment needed: A gaga ball pit and lightweight ball.

Spark nostalgia in the over-35 set

Guests born before the 1990s are old enough to remember the days when smartphones and the Internet weren’t around and kids had to make their own summer fun. A mix of kids and adults is the perfect group to execute these old-school gems, and once the kids have caught on, you can bail out for a cocktail. smlhomemaga zine .com 10 1

Kickball: Kickball originated in the U.S. in the first half of the 20th century, and was created to introduce kids to baseball concepts in public school. It’s a game that has enjoyed enduring popularity, with adult kickball leagues on the rise. To play, split up into two equal-sized teams, and set up three bases and a home plate on the grass in a diamond shape. A pitcher rolls the ball to the kicker, who tries to kick it and advance around the bases to score a run. If an opposing player catches the ball, the kicker is out, or he can be forced out at a base (like in softball or baseball).

Equipment needed: Rubber kickball (a soccer ball can be subbed for a rubber kickball), a home plate and three bases.

Flashlight tag: When the sun dips below the horizon, it’s time for mosquito bites and flashlight tag (for safety, layer on the bug spray and keep the boundary of play away from the water’s edge or other hazards). Flashlight tag is a mix of tag and hide and seek, and is played after dark in an area that is not well-lit and has ample hiding spots. The person who is “it” has the flashlight, and counts while everyone else hides. After calling out “ready or not,” they search with the flashlight, and when they get close enough to shine the beam on a person’s face and call out the name, that person is out. Variations include multiple people being “it” and having a jail where people can be tagged out. Equipment needed: Flashlight(s).

Capture the Flag: Once upon a (different) time, it would’ve been hard to escape childhood without playing this classic neighborhood game. If you’ve never been in on the fun, it’s not too late! Divide into two teams, and designate a flag for each team (this can be anything, including a beach towel). The objective is to capture the other team’s flag at their base, and bring it safely back to your team’s base. Opposing players can be tagged, and, 102

depending on how you want to play, can become members of the opposite team, be “frozen” in place until tagged by a teammate, or be out of the game. Equipment needed: Two flags or towels, cones or other markers to separate the two territories.

Driveway games for young kids

If you’ve got young kids at the lake, chances are they want to gogo-go—even if the rest of the gang is sacked out on the couch from an active day on the lake. If you have a few props on hand, they can entertain themselves on the driveway, away from the water where your constant eye is needed.

Driveway Art: The options for driveway paint and chalk products abound, and are more fun than you remember. Paints made for the task allow a budding artist to make the driveway his or her canvas, and create for hours. It’s washable and non-toxic, so easily washes off with a spray of the hose and won’t harm lake wildlife. Glitter chalk, neon chalk and 3D chalk that appears 3D with special glasses are readily available. Driveway chalk stencils and “stompers”—which are filled with powdered chalk and attach to the bottom of a child’s shoes—allow them to make dinosaur or other prints on the sidewalk. If older kids scowl at the idea, show them some amazing Pinterest and Instagram chalk art to get creative juices flowing. Equipment needed: Sidewalk chalk, paint, and/or stencils and accessories.

Four Square: A giant square, made with chalk or painter’s tape, is divided into four equal parts. Aim for approximately fivefoot squares for children, and up to eight feet for adults. Number the squares from one to four, clockwise. A player stands in each square; the highest square serves. The server bounces it once in his square, and then hits the ball to the square diagonal from S m i t h M o u n t a i n L a ke H O M E 2 0 2 0

his square. The receiver can then hit the ball to any square. If a receiver misses twice in one round, they are eliminated (or in the case of only four players, moves to the lowest-ranked square).

The goal is to move up to the servers’ square. The beauty of four square is that basic rules can be changed, and variations added to the players’ hearts’ content. Equipment needed: Bouncy playground ball, tape or chalk to mark squares.

Jacks: You’d be hard pressed to find a game as old as Jacks, which has been played for more than 2,000 years. In texts left behind by the Greek philosopher Sophocles, there is mention of the game being played around the time of the Trojan War (1190 B.C.). If this piece of trivia doesn’t impress your young guests, you still might have willing participants, who can spread out on the driveway and play solo or in a group. First, scatter the jacks on the ground by tossing them. Throw the small rubber ball straight up, and grab a jack with the same hand that you bounced the ball with. Continue the process for all 10 jacks, or pass the ball to the next player if you don’t complete all 10. In the next round, pick up two jacks at a time, then three in the third round, and so on. Equipment needed: A set of jacks, which usually come in a pack of 10 with a small rubber ball in a carrying pouch.

You don’t have to overthink how to execute games at the lake (this is supposed to be fun, after all). Stock up on a few things when you make your next supply run. A basket filled with assorted balls, sidewalk chalk and a flashlight can be enough to spark interest in a making up a game, or could be enough to while away the hours if the WiFi connection goes down. And we won’t tell if you unplug it on purpose. ✦

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ENHANCE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE ways to make the most of lakeside living

BY CHRISTINA MOORE Photography by C r a i g S h af f e r Design/Build by Southern Landscape Group

The Smith Mountain Lake region offers not only the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the lake, but also stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you have invested in a lakeside home, you, of course, want to maximize those inspirational views, but may meet some challenges in your landscape design. Many lakeside properties face issues like steeply sloped yards, a need for access paths from the home to the lake, or simply the desire for beautiful yet functional ways to expand living and entertaining areas. Here we feature five lakeside properties to inspire you with ways to make the most of your outdoor living space.

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SLOPED LOTS

The natural terrain of a lakeside property often offers spectacular views from the home but presents a slope challenge when accessing the lake.

This homeowner added a retaining wall to separate the yard space from an installed asphalt cart path, as well as installed boulder walls at the cart path retention area and at the dock steps. The asphalt path leads to a cobblestone-patterned paver path that continues to the dock. Easy-tomaintain landscape plantings were installed with irrigation, as well as landscape lighting for safety and a gorgeous nighttime glow.

THE NATURAL TERRAIN OF A LAKESIDE PROPERTY OFTEN OFFERS SPECTACULAR VIEWS FROM THE HOME BUT PRESENTS A SLOPE CHALLENGE WHEN ACCESSING THE LAKE.

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SEAMLESS TRANSITIONS FROM INTERIORS TO EXTERIORS CAN MAKE A HOME FEEL MORE SPACIOUS AND THE OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE FEEL MORE ACCESSIBLE AND FUNCTIONAL.

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EXTENDING LIVING SPACE

Seamless transitions from interiors to exteriors can make a home feel more spacious and the outdoor living space feel more accessible and functional.

This homeowner began with a backyard blank slate and created a relaxing oasis. This was attained by terracing the yard with retaining walls, installing a new Trex deck, large patio, spa, fire pit, fire torches, and an outdoor kitchen.

Custom-designed metal palm trees were installed for a year-round tropical vibe.

This design creates a gentle flow to various activity areas that all maximize that gorgeous sunset view.

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BUILDING A FIRE PIT IS A GREAT WAY TO EASILY ADD INSTANT OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE THAT PROVIDES FUNCTION AND A BEAUTIFUL AESTHETIC.

FIRE PIT

Is there anything more cozy than a group of family or friends gathered around a fire? Building a fire pit is a great way to easily add instant outdoor living space that provides function and a beautiful aesthetic.

This homeowner created a gathering spot by installing a retaining wall, a dry stack boulder wall, a paver patio and a fire pit. Along this area, they also installed a terraced paver walkway with boulder accents, and a decorative river stone bed.

OUTDOOR FIREPLACE AND EXPANDING UNDERUSED SPACES

Why not turn the unused areas under your deck into a beautiful space for relaxation? This homeowner transformed an often-overlooked space into a lakeside screened porch with an outdoor mosaic stone gas fireplace. With the addition of outdoor furniture, their living and dining areas are expanded, providing year-round comfort. An added benefit is the enjoyment of a gorgeous lakeside view without pesky bugs invading the space.

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EXPANDING A DECK IS OFTEN AN AFFORDABLE WAY TO GAIN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE COMPARED TO OTHER LANDSCAPING OPTIONS.

DECK RENOVATION

Spending time outdoors is much more enjoyable when you have a safe and welcoming space to entertain family and friends. Because wood ages rapidly when exposed to the elements, many decks quickly become tired-looking, splinter, crack, or need a more secure foundation.

Expanding a deck is often an affordable way to gain outdoor living space compared to other landscaping options. This homeowner completed a deck renovation by removing the existing decking, installing Trex decking, and adding lighting. Additionally, they expanded beyond the deck with a lakeside paver patio seating area and an elegantly curved pathway to the dock. The look is made complete with landscape lighting, easy-tomaintain landscaping, and boulder accents. âœŚ

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DESIGN trends

ON TREND 10 home design looks you’ll see this year B Y E R I C A J AC K S O N C U R R A N

R

eady to refresh your nest? We’ve picked through designers’ blogs and Instagram feeds to pinpoint some of the most outstanding home design trends for 2020. From furniture and fabrics to kitchen cabinets, here are 10 trends we’re most excited to try this year.

NAKED WOOD

SCONCES 1. NAKED WOOD. After years of slathering our wood furniture, cabinets and trim with paint, we’re starting to see the return of simple, straightforward wood in all its natural brown glory.

Whether rustic antique dressers or modern raw wood cabinets, wood can add warmth and timelessness to any space.

2. VERTICAL WALL PANELING. Not to be confused with Joanna Gaines’ horizontal shiplap obsession, vertical wall paneling heightens walls and opens up smaller spaces while lending a modern vibe. We especially love paneling as a budget-friendly alternative to a tile backsplash.

3. SCONCES. When creating a lighting scheme in your home, sconces pull double duty by adding pleasing layers of light and oodles of character. We love them in obvious spots like above bedside tables or above vanities but also in dining rooms, hallways, and above open shelving in the kitchen. Some of the most current looks include micro bubble sconces, sculptural fixtures and long-arm sconces.

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COLORFUL KITCHENS

GREEN

SQUARE TILE 4. SQUARE TILE. Rectangular subway tile will never go out of style, but square tile is just different enough to add a modern edge to your space.

VELVET

POLISHED NICKEL

PRAIRIE STYLE

5. COLORFUL KITCHENS. From bright yellow to soothing sage green and rich navy, we’ve seen kitchens cropping up in all colors of the rainbow. This trend is one that definitely has an expiration date, but we love it nonetheless.

6. VELVET. Channel a chic Parisian apartment by incorporating a bit of velvet into your home with a headboard, banquette or sofa. Not ready to commit to something big?

Start with velvet throw pillows, a bedspread, a tufted ottoman, or floor-skimming drapes in your dining room.

7. GREEN. From deep hunter green to peppy mint, green is a color we’re seeing time and time again on walls, furniture and home accents.

8. POLISHED NICKEL .Brass is still in style, but if you’re looking for hardware and fixtures that stand out, try polished nickel.

The look is significantly more attractive than dated brushed nickel, but has a warmer look than chrome. Another option we love: matte black.

9. ELEVATED PRAIRIE STYLE. Sick of farmhouse style? Try the elevated prairie look instead.

As coined by designer Emily Henderson, it’s a little bit rustic and traditional but with a clean, minimalist twist.

10. MAXIMALISM. If you’d rather just go in the complete opposite direction of the farmhouse/ prairie style, embrace your maximalist side with bold prints, clashing patterns, and vivid colors. There are no rules here; have fun with it! It’s your home, after all. ✦

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L I Z

5032 Boonsboro Rd. Lynchburg, VA 24503

justliz.net

434-384-1828

#CHIPPY #RUSTY #JUNK #UPCYCLE #SALVAGE #PICKER #REPURPOSE #ANTIQUES #TREASURES

710 Pocket Rd, Hurt

908.627.6272

Thurs-Fri: 11–5, Sat: 10–5 Like us on Facebook!

Follow us on Instagram!

Upcoming Events SWEET VIOLET’S VINTAGE MARKET APRIL 24 & 25, 10–4 1 1 2

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A PLACE WHERE YOUR DOG HAS FUN and learns too! celebrating 10 years of dog training

14004 Leesville Rd., Evington • 434.610.2013 • flatcreekpetcare.com

EMERSON CREEK POTTERY

Upgrade the look and value of your home with a new garage door.

Outlet Store Hours: Tues.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Shop 40–60% off retail prices!

(540) 297-7884 | EmersonCreekPottery.com | 1068 Pottery Lane, Bedford

sales, installation and repairs

434-237-1011 • DoorTekVA.com • info@doortekva.com

your guide through the world of wine...one glass at a time.

514-B Fifth St. Lynchburg, VA (434) 258-6781

TUES - SAT 12-6 PM

info@everyday-sommelier.com

DAY OF VISIT SPECIAL COUPON

Tour guests will receive 10% off their order. Coupon can be used at the USAlpaca Company or Farm Store.

Day of visit only.

EXCLUSIONS APPLY: NOT IN COMBINATION WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS. PILLOWS EXCLUDED.

smlhomemaga zine .com 113

ADVERTISER index

RETIRE. EXPLORE. DISCOVER. The B est D eci si on y ou will e v e r ma ke !

Retirement doesn’t have to be boring. Meet new and interesting people as you enjoy a sense of community on our campus. Try swimming in our indoor saltwater pool. Share memories with friends while eating at one of our three dining locations or enjoy scenic and interesting trips. Discover all you can do at Westminster Canterbury and experience life refreshed.

WC-LH-20014

Our beautiful, 42-acre campus and nationally-recognized LifeCare program can offer you, or your family member, a unique experience.

Call Laura Hunter to schedule a tour: (434) 386-3305 501 V.E.S. Road, Lynchburg

WCLynchburg.org

American Moving And Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Automatic Boat Covers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Berkshire Hathaway-Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate . . 99 Better Sofas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Brandon Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

By Design Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Carilion Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 CLC Incorporated. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Closet Storage Organizers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Consolidated Construction Services Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Construction Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Crowning Touch Senior Moving Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Dana Montgomery, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Debbie Shelton, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Decorating Den Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 DeNeal’s Cabinets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Designer Solutions, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 DoorTek Garage Doors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Emerson Creek Pottery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Emily Mangus Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Everyday Sommelier. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 EZ Rampz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 F&S Building Innovations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Fabulous Finds SML. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Fink's Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Flat Creek Pet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Genie Rust/Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Glenda McDaniel, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 HSC Wealth Advisors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Interiors By Moyanne. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 J + W Global Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 James River Ironworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Just Liz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Lake Retreat Properties, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Lisa Settle, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 London Salt Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Lucky Duck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Lynchburg Regional Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Margaret Craye, Realtor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Marshall Stone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Member One Federal Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 National Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Piedmont Floors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Queen Bee Consignments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Rainfrost Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Reclaimed @ Smith Mountain Lake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Romar Elevators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Ronnie Mitchell And Son Landscaping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Runk & Pratt, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Seven Oaks Landscape Hardscape. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Smith Mountain Arts Council (SMAC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Smith Mountain Lake Dental Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Southern Landscape Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Spectrum Stone Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Sweet Peas Lighting And Decor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 TBS Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 TCV Trust & Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 The Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Summit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 The Vinyl Porch Rail Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Turner's Building. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Union Church Millworks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 US Alpaca Company/Smith Mountain Lake Farm. . . . . . . 113 Vicki Millehan, Realtor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Vinton Appliance Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Virgil Naff’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Virginia Amateur Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Virginia Building Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Virginia Found Goods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Virginia Mountain Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Webster Marine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Westminster Canterbury. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Whitt Carpet One. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Williams Lighting Galleries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Winey Chicks Boutique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

For advertising information please call (434) 386-5667 or sales@westwillowpublishing.

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your source for

SUNROOMS, DECKS, ADDITIONS AND MORE

FOUR SEASONS SUNROOMS • KITCHENS AND BATHS • PERGOLAS AND AWNINGS TREX DECK PLATINUM PROS • ADDITIONS AND GARAGES • EXTERIOR UPDATES

IT’S TIME TO CREATE NEW SPACES… AND MEMORIES. WHAT WILL YOUR CREATION LOOK LIKE? F&S Building Innovations has over 40 years of experience with hundreds of satisfied residential customers throughout central and southwest Virginia.

We’re a Class A contractor, which means we can facilitate your project from design to completion. And we have an interior designer on-staff to guide you every step of the way. Call 540-985-9160 for FREE estimates.

FSFOURSEASONS.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/FSFOURSEASONS 2944 ORANGE AVENUE NE, ROANOKE

WHEN IT COMES TO SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE REAL ESTATE, WE HAVE PERFECT

2020 VISION. Whether you’re buying or selling, upsizing or downsizing, we have the knowledge, experience, and determination to help you achieve your real estate goals.

Luxury Collection Specialist

540.520.2401

Vicki@VickisLakeHomes.com VickisLakeHomes.com

1 1 6

GRI, CRS, ABR

540.797.3177

Debbie@DebbieShelton.com DebbieShelton.com

©2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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