Inspired - Spring 2013

The Willowsford, Virginia Lifestyle

VOL. I | 2013 | $4.95

Adventure Racing for the Whole Family Linden Vineyards Shows the Value of Simplicity Wood-Fired Pizza Goes Mobile Why Kids Need Mud

thoughts from the field

IntegrIty Homes at Willowsford

Letter from Willowsford Here at Willowsford, we have the luxury of being surrounded by over 2,000 acres of remarkable open space.

Sounds great, of course, but why is it great? In my mind, that’s somewhat of a rhetorical question; there is no right answer (nor should there be!) – and that’s the beauty of it.

So as the temps start to rise again, and the flowers start to bloom – I encourage you to slow down, simplify your life, and explore the great outdoors.

Walk the Farm Loop Trail with your kids and help monitor the bluebird boxes provided by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy. Don’t forget to check in at the farm and catch up with our farmer Mike Snow – he may even give you a few hints as to what the farm has in store for CSA members this year. Up for an adventure instead?

Bring your biking, running, and orienteering skills to an upcoming Rev3 Family Adventure Race.

Being able to do all these things right in your own back yard was part of the vision of Willowsford from the start. Eighteen months later, we’re honored to have been awarded America’s 2013 Community of the Year

by NAHB.

Integrity Homes only builds our quality, hand-crafted homes in distinctive locations with honest personalities – places like Willowsford. Designed and crafted especially for Willowsford, Integrity homes offer up to 5,000 square feet of relaxed, authentic luxury, with up to 6 bedrooms and 6.5 baths along with exquisite features like personal courtyards, sunrooms, balconies, reading nooks and gourmet chef’s kitchens. Integrity homes are genuine and timeless, and just like the naturally planned community of Willowsford, truly inspiring.

A publication of Willowsford, L.L.C. Publisher: Willowsford, L.L.C. Managing Editor: Laura Cole Contributor: Fraser Wallace Advertising FraserWallace.com ©2013 Willowsford, L.L.C., Willowsford, Willowsford Conservancy, Inspired, Inspired Living, A Naturally Planned Community and are all trademarks of Willowsford, L.L.C. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this magazine is expressly prohibited. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising matter.

Single-Family Homes from the mid $500s | Willowsford.com/Integrity 41095 Braddock Road, Aldie, Virginia 20105 | (703) 431-6589

The information, illustrations, maps, and depictions contained in this magazine concerning the Willowsford development are based on the current proposed development concepts; actual development may vary from what is depicted. As the vision for the project evolves, facilities, features and other components are subject to change. Certain features and amenities depicted within the magazine have not yet been, and may not be, constructed. Dues, fees and assessments may be imposed for the use of some amenities. Photographs and images are not necessarily of the Willowsford development, are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of any features or designs of any specific community, neighborhood, amenities, facilities or improvements.

Beyond Willowsford, if you have some time, take a drive out to Local Wood in Berryville, VA, where Charlie Beach and Scott Carpenter have their shop. Ask them to show you the “Willowsford stash” earmarked for The Lodge community center – handpicked red and white oak harvested and milled right here at Willowsford.

On the way back, take a detour and check out Linden Vineyards or go for a hike in Sky Meadows State Park.

This time of year is no stranger to clichés (mostly related to the weather!), but to me springtime is a state of mind.

The warming trend and longer days are a welcome change, but as the chilly days of February begin to wane, I like to take a bit more time to sit back and smell the proverbial roses. I encourage you to do the same.

Here’s to finding out what inspires you this season.

All the best,

Brian Cullen D.C. Regional President for Corbelis, The Developer of Willowsford

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 3

Contents

Spring 2013

1 6 1

4

12

thoughts from the field

Letter from Willowsford Brian Cullen

6

good earth

eat local

60

12

drink local Linden Vineyards Michael Franz

16

heart and soul

inspired living Snapshots from Willowsford

62

The Mobile Gourmet Pizzeria MOTO Redefines the Food Truck Alex Aloise 58

stewardship Local Wood Jaimee Reinertsen

Waking Up from Winter Spring on the Farm Mike Snow

16 24

58

kids’ corner The Wonder Years How Children Learn to Love the Land Donna Quinn

pring 2013

4

64

rooted

Noble Traditions Middleburg’s Equestrian Enthusiasm Vicky Moon

68

inspired reflection

A Final Bit of Inspiration

All Revved Up Rev3 Adventure Fits Racing into Real Life Jaimee Reinertsen 20

24 60 62

uality Time & Finish Lines Q Family Adventure Racing at Willowsford Alex Aloise

homescape Everyday Getaway Create an Amazing Sunroom Marlene Dennis

64 68 29

esign Matters D For K. Hovnanian, Great Design Is Just Good Business Jaimee Reinertsen

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 5

good earth

Waking Up from

Winter Spring on the Farm

The days were still getting shorter when it first came time to write for spring. It’s not that we hadn’t thought about 2013 or that those plans hadn’t been made. But December is hibernation time, a long blink for the cortex to go on hiatus and the Default Mode Network to take over for the moment. Winter is for rest, reflection, and repair.

Now with the days getting longer, the seed catalogues on the table, and the occasional warm hints of spring, it’s time to get moving again. We’re rested now and we’re fresh with new plans and projects. On the farm, our supplies start arriving by truck, the greenhouse gets turned back on, and we start seeding our first transplants. 2013 is here and the farm has started to come alive again.

The farm team is excited for our second season. We’re growing at a comfortable pace – moving into a second field in The Grange, managing more Conservancy land, growing more vegetables and raising livestock. We hope our CSA family will grow this year and we are increasing the number of available farm shares. And our farm-ily is larger, too: come meet our laying hens and goats. The goats we “rented” from Eco-Goats did a fine job last fall preparing part of the farm for planting, and we’ll use our own small herd to manage open spaces here this year.

The hens will provide eggs available as an Egg Share in the CSA and through the Farm Stand.

For those of you new to the CSA experience, Community Supported Agriculture offers a unique relationship for both farmer and customer. We like CSA because it brings us close to our share-members – it’s rewarding to share the food we grow with friends who are as committed to us as we are to them. As a CSA member, you share in the risk and reward of our farming season. In exchange for your down payment, which gives us critical cash flow early in

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the season, we provide a box of vegetables for you each week of the growing season, share recipes and cooking tips, and invite you to the farm for share-member potlucks and events. Our veggies are grown right here and are picked fresh every day. CSA is great if you want to ensure you get veggies each week, if you enjoy cooking or want to grow as a cook, and if you like being surprised each week with what’s in season. We invite you to join the program.

Our veggies are also available at the Farm Stand, open weekly from early May through Thanksgiving. In addition to our veggies, the Farm Stand this year has fruit, baked goods, dairy, eggs, meat, and more. Many of these items are available through our online store for pickup during stand hours on Saturday. We partner with other local farmers and producers who grow and make their products the way we would – raising their animals on pasture and using practices that leave their land and their products clean and healthy. All of these are products you can feel good about buying and eating.

You can meet many of the farmers, bakers and vendors at the Farm Stand on Saturdays – between vendor visits, cooking demonstrations, farm tours and other activities, there is always something to do here in addition to picking up veggies.

If you are interested in gardening yourself, we are kicking off a new, monthly workshop series, which this year includes an introduction to organic gardening and garden design, how to compost, and more. Check out our new website at WillowsfordFarm.com to learn more.

We’re anticipating a great season and we look forward to seeing you at the farm.

Be great, Mike

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eat local

The Mobile

Gourmet

Redefining the Food Truck, Brick-by-Brick Oven

by Alex Aloise

The Dough: Makes four 10˝-11˝ pizzas 5 cups all purpose flour (King Arthur brand is very good) 1 Tablespoon sugar 2 teaspoons salt (or 3-½ teaspoons kosher salt) 1 teaspoon instant yeast (also called rapid rise) 2 Tablespoons olive oil 1-¾ to 2 cups room-temperature water Photo by Kenneth Garrett for Doukénie Winery

In the fall of 2010, Jay Clement left his job in carpentry to work with his hands in a different way.

Making pizza had long been a hobby for Clement that, over time, turned into a passion he couldn’t ignore.

“Every Friday was pizza night, and my wife and I experimented with different recipes. I studied the dough, the sauce, the heat of the oven,” he says. “Hundreds and hundreds of pizzas I made were just good, but not the kind that make you close your eyes and say, ‘WOW, this pizza is life changing’ (or something along those lines).

It took a long time, but finally one day, I knew that the pizza I made was better than most of the pizzerias in the surrounding area. That confidence sparked the seed for Pizzeria MOTO.”

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With winning recipes in hand and a desire to go into business for himself – but equally sure he didn’t want the hectic lifestyle of running a 140-seat restaurant – Clement found his opportunity in a mobile oven that he came across online. “I realized nobody else was doing it, and took the risk.”

And thus, Pizzeria MOTO – mobile, wood-fired pizza catering – was launched in Spring 2011.

Unlike the increasingly popular food trucks that drive around taking orders from lunch crowds, Pizzeria MOTO focuses on delivering great pizza at special events. A regular purveyor of pizza at local vineyards, weddings, corporate retreats, bike races, farmers markets and more, Pizzeria MOTO delivers an (continued)

Combine all of the ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon or mix in an electric mixer for 4-5 minutes (with a mixer you may have to scrape down the sides). After you’ve combined all of the ingredients, set the dough aside, cover it with a towel, and allow it to rest for 20 minutes (this helps the dough come together). Stir again for 5 to 7 minutes, adding more water or flour if necessary. Generally speaking, you want the dough to be wetter and stickier than your typical dough. It should be dry enough that it holds together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl when you mix it, but it doesn’t need to be dry enough to knead by hand.

If you have a scale, divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.

Take the pieces and form them into balls using two hands.

The goal is to create a good shaped ball that will later become a nice, round pie. Put the balls on a lightly floured sheet pan and cover with plastic wrap to let rise. Rise times will vary based on temperature, but you want the dough balls to double in size before rolling them out or hand stretching them.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 9

eat local

WOW exclusive experience that captivates diners from the moment they set their eyes on the unique oven.

“There’s a rusticity and casualness that the brick oven creates. We just roll up to the site and it creates its own ambiance,” Clement says. “It’s a fascinating conversation piece. To have that oven out at an event, and to be able to talk to people as you’re preparing their meal, it’s different. It’s charming, almost romantic in a way.”

The ability to be up close and personal with his customers is another reason why Clement prefers his mobile oven to a traditional food truck or restaurant.

“We catered a wedding. And just knowing that those people wanted us there on one of the most important days of their lives – those little gems really make it worthwhile.”

But it’s not just the atmosphere and friendly faces that keep Pizzeria MOTO in such high demand. It’s the extraordinary quality of the pizza. A combination of organic ingredients from local farms including Willowsford Farm, a dedicated time-tested baking technique, and a focus on flavor set this food apart.

this pizza is life changing Jay Clement’s Tips for a great pizza at home Start with a great crust Try the dough recipe on page 7.

Use high quality, low quantity, ingredients – Don’t use so much sauce you can’t see the crust.

– Don’t use so much cheese you can’t see the sauce.

– Don’t use so many toppings you can’t see the cheese.

Use a pizza stone on your grill Great pizza depends on high heat, and conventional ovens won’t get hot enough. Let a pizza stone heat for 30 minutes on the grill to get to 650-700 degrees. You should be able to cook the pizza in 4 minutes.

Use fresh mozzarella The high heat will keep the fat in and prevent the orange grease that happens when pizza is cooked at too low a temperature.

“Other pizzas just use the crust as a vehicle for all of their toppings,” says Clement. “We’re very crust-centric. It’s the star of the show. We are using artisan techniques to tease out as much flavor from the grain as possible. The toppings are just supporting players.”

What may have seemed like a business risk at first appears to have paid off for Jay Clement and his family.

“I left a 40-hour job for an 80-hour job, but it doesn’t feel that way,” he says. “Somehow, even when the dough trays need to be washed, when you’re working for yourself it’s not so bad. I’m always engaged. It’s reactive. I love it .”

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For event and catering information, visit PizzeriaMoto.com

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 11

Pulte Homes

at Willowsford At Pulte, all of our homes are Life Tested™ because we take ideas from our own homeowners and use them when designing new homes. So our homes are constantly being updated with the innovations that come from the people who know how a home should function: the people living in them. And that means our homes at Willowsford won’t just be built for life, they’ll be built for how you live it.

Pulte Homes is a subsidiary of PulteGroup, Inc., a leader in energy-efficient homebuilding that has won more awards for customer satisfaction than any other homebuilder. Each new home at Willowsford will be built with an unwavering commitment to quality and a disciplined approach to construction.

Single-Family Homes Coming Spring 2013 Register for email updates at willowsford.com/Pulte 41095 Braddock Road, Aldie, VA 20105 | (571) 297-2000

drink local

Linden

Vineyards

by Michael Franz

Photography by Patricia Lyons

Wineries are popular places to visit for many reasons – some of which may not be immediately obvious.

Growing grapes and making wine are not easy tasks, but they involve a fairly small set of standard practices.

Vintners around the world spend their time doing pretty much the same things in facilities that differ very little in functional terms. You could get the idea that seeing one vineyard is seeing them all, but not once you understand the nuances of the trade.

Along with particularities of climate and soil, the real essence that differentiates one winery from another radiates from the priorities of the proprietor. It only takes a few minutes at Linden Vineyards to sense that the place is run by a farmer. Neither a merchandiser nor an entertainer, Jim Law is first and foremost a farmer, and that’s what makes Linden Vineyards such a distinctive and valuable enterprise in Fauquier County.

The vineyard itself is free of ornamentation, and refreshingly so, at least for those who prefer vineyards that aren’t dotted with a gazebo at every turn. T-shirts and mementos and packets of potpourri are conspicuous by their absence in the tasting room, which seems surprisingly singular in its devotion to tasting. The vista from the hilltop winery is beautiful, but to be more precise, it is naturally, rustically beautiful rather than what Law calls “golf course beautiful.” (continued) Vintner Jim Law is first and foremost a farmer.

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VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 15

drink local

Jim Law didn’t grow up on a farm, but his affinity for farming arose early, as a teenager growing up in Ohio.

Interest in wine emerged in that same phase, transmitted by wine-loving parents, but vineyard work wasn’t exactly his first foray into agriculture. After a stint at a farming camp at Michigan State, Law spent two years teaching agriculture as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Congo. Upon his return to the USA, he set his sights on viticulture, first in Indiana and then Ohio, before being hired in 1981 to start a winery in the Shenandoah Valley.

Soon convinced that excellent wine could be grown there, he purchased an abandoned hardscrabble farm in 1983, and has devoted himself to cultivating fine wine from the land ever since. The notion of “cultivating fine wine” is worth emphasizing: For Law, wine is much more something he “grows” than “makes,” and his whole approach is a vinous echo of the farm-to-table movement.

Vines were planted immediately, but in his early days on the property, Law also grew apples and blueberries on a commercial scale and had what he calls “a nice little pickyour-own-fruit business as a hedge for the winemaking

All of this suggests that Linden’s proprietor is sharply focused on what he wishes to achieve and present to the public, and that comes through clearly in conversation with Jim Law. He wants to make the best wines he can produce by coaxing his land to provide the best grapes it can grow. That’s about it. He’s one of the most focused vintners I’ve ever met, and I’ve met more than 1,100 of them during site visits around the world over the past 20 years.

There’s something worth remembering about focus: It isn’t just about zeroing-in, but also about occluding everything outside the point of focus. In the case of a winery seeking world-class quality in Northern Virginia, that means saying no to buses, limousines, groups larger than six, picnics, private parties, and weddings – all of which can be quite lucrative but also pretty distracting.

Like bars, some wineries really get going at 5 pm, but that’s the hour when Linden closes.

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enterprise.” But all of that’s gone now, and Law is no longer hedging his bets. Years of working directly in the vineyard have taught him which vine varieties are best suited to his property, and also which particular slopes and parcels are best for growing each grape.

commodity shipped in from some exotic point on the globe, but something crafted by one’s neighbors. It isn’t simply a luxury product skimmed from nature like caviar, but an agricultural product conjured from the soil by the honest labor of farmers.

Law is still tweaking things, and notes that he is currently “planting Cabernet Sauvignon and pulling it out elsewhere at the same time” in order to get it situated optimally. This seems like a case in point for the winery’s motto, “Never Content,” but after 30 years of experimentation, he has placed his bets squarely on making Bordeaux-style red blends and single-site Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs. Whether white or red, all of the wines are crafted in a tastefully restrained, mineral, age-worthy style that leans more toward Europe than California.

Vineyards are not just the stuff of travel brochures, but beautiful additions to our local landscape that keep land in agricultural production and serve as barriers to urban sprawl. And wine is not an impenetrably complicated product, but an essentially natural beverage made by a surprisingly simple process that can be grasped readily when explained by an articulate vintner.

Although Linden isn’t the place to go for a party, it is a great place to go to learn, and Law is a friendly and engaging teacher. Walking around the property and looking through the cellar offer opportunities to replace misconceptions with knowledge: Wine is not just a

For tasting and tour information, visit LindenVineyards.com.

Michael Franz is a wine writer, educator, and consultant. He is editor of Wine Review Online and a freelance contributor to many national and international wine magazines.

Lessons like these are the real reasons to visit a winery, and there’s no better choice than Linden for learning them.

heart and soul

All

Revved Up

by Jaimee Reinertsen

Rev3 Adventure Co-owners Michael Spillis (left) and Mark Harris (right)

If you’ve never experienced energy envy, you’d know it the minute you met Michael Spillis.

and climbing, along with orienteering and navigation.

Expedition races can be as long as 10 days, while sprint races can be completed in hours. Racers are typically in teams and rely on complementing each other’s strengths and skill sets to maximize their points.

Co-owner of Rev3 Adventure, you might suspect him of being born with more than his fair share of the endorphin pool. He often cycles his 20-mile commute from Centreville to D.C., plays the corner office executive at his IT day job, is a husband and father of two, runs an adventure racing company every other minute of the week, and he is contagiously excited about all of it.

Think Amazing Race or Survivor, the TV programs to which the sport at least partially owes its growing popularity. The trouble is, races like these are hard to fit into a real life.

Spillis began adventure racing nine years ago, quickly competing on a national level. For the uninitiated, adventure racing combines two or more endurance sports like trail running, mountain biking, paddling 18 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

“I love it, but the drawback is time away from my family,” Spillis says. When he began, his son and daughter were just 4 and 2. As they got older, he looked for ways to get them involved but says, “you go to some remote places where there’s nothing to do, and they’re stuck bored while I’m racing for 24 hours.”

Photography by Bushnell

As it has been known to do, necessity gave way to invention. “My wife and I did a family adventure race a few years ago with a company called Big Little Adventures. When they stopped having races we thought, what if we started that here?” Fast forward a few years, and Rev3 Adventure is hosting full expeditions, sprints and family adventure races throughout Virginia, with interest from states across the U.S., and a sponsorship from REI.

checkpoint where all four trails meet. Meanwhile, sprint adventures will take regular mortals through sporting races, including whitewater rafting, and urban challenges, like a scavenger hunt at the Casper Museum.

The State of Wyoming has contracted with Rev3 to design and direct a weekend of races to highlight the state’s history, culture and natural environment. Starting with a 3-day, 500-mile race from Cheyenne to Casper, some of the most elite teams in the world will race to checkpoints along the Pony Express, Mormon Trail, California Trail and Oregon Trail, with a mandatory

The company hosts about half its adventures now in other states, and half in Virginia. “The big challenge is finding properties where we can hold the races. County parks have a lot of hoops to jump through to get permits, and there are other hurdles, like the fact that the public demand for use of the parks and trails on any given weekend is already high.” (continued)

Though initially started as a way for Spillis to stay local, Rev3 is engaging with many cities and states that want to use races as a way to celebrate their unique environments while encouraging health and wellness among their residents.

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heart and soul Enter Willowsford, a community designed for outdoor enthusiasts with over 2,000 acres of protected open space. Mark Harris, co-owner, first came to the community for Ride Willowsford, which was a mountain bike classic held last summer. “He called me and said, ‘You’ve got to come check this place out! It’d be perfect!’”

Willowsford saw a great fit, too. Laura Cole, Marketing Director for Willowsford, says, “We’re all about connecting with the natural environment, whether it’s through farming, conservation, or getting muddy with friends and family on a mountain bike. Joining in on a Rev3 adventure is a really memorable way to experience the outdoors at Willowsford.”

“We’re so excited about this partnership,” says Spillis, “because we share a passion for the outdoors and making it a part of everyday living.”

Spillis says many people are initially intimidated by the idea of adventure racing, but don’t need to be. Rev3 designs the races so they’re fun for newcomers, as well as challenging for experts. Everyone is an official finisher who completes the mandatory checkpoints, which are easily achievable in the time allowed. If there’s time left on the clock, you can score more points for completing additional challenges. Strategizing how many to go for in the time limit, and which course to take to get there, is up to each team and is what makes each race memorable.

“You see every range of emotion, from excitement to fear to frustration to victory.

At the end of the day, everyone’s covered in mud, but they’re all smiles.”

Upcoming Races at willowsford March 9th: Morning – Spring Thaw Trail Run at The Grant;

November 2nd: Frozen Foot Adventure Race and Family

Afternoon – Mountain Bike Race at The Grant

Adventure Race at The Greens

April 6th: Morning – Spring Thaw Trail Run at The Greens;

November 3rd: Fall Foliage Trail Run and Mountain Bike

Afternoon – Mountain Bike Race at The Greens

Race at The Greens

October 19th: Morning – Fall Foliage Trail Run at The Grant; Afternoon – Mountain Bike Race at The Grant

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For more information, visit www.Rev3Adventure.com

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heart and soul

Quality Time & Finish Lines

by Alex Aloise

The Rev3 Family Adventure Race It’s just after 10 am outside The Willowsford Boat House.

The crisp morning air gives Willow Lake a glass-like sheen.

The towering trees stand stock-still. And a group of fierce competitors quietly size each other up.

They have come to Willowsford from near and far to test both the elements and their own limits. Their routes have been studied. Their strategies, decided. They gather before the starting line, a competitive fire flashing across their faces.

Some wear looks of determination. Others wear crumbs left over from mom’s morning pancakes.

And so begins the inaugural Family Adventure Race at Willowsford, sponsored by Rev3 Adventure.

Unlike traditional races, an adventure race puts competitors into teams of two or three and requires them to reach specific checkpoints and complete various team challenges before finishing the race. Teams have to bike, run and work together to accomplish each individual goal.

“I was looking for something different and active that we could do together and that would be good for us, our

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marriage, our family – everything!” says Andrea Schneider of upper Montgomery County, MD. She and her husband, Michael, traveled to Willowsford with their sons Ty, 7, and Cooper, 10. The Schneiders are new to adventure racing, but it was that challenge of the unknown that drew them to Willowsford on this day. “All of our friends are doing 10Ks and triathlons but my husband won’t follow the herd!”

“I have to be different,” Michael grins.

As the Schneiders hop on their bikes and make their way down the road for the first leg of the race, another family of first-timers is close behind. Jeff and Kathy Dill of Centreville, VA, split their family of four into two teams of two – boys vs. girls. The friendly on-course family rivalry is eagerly anticipated before the start of the race. (continued) Photography by Bushnell

heart and soul under his belt. “We’ll set the bikes up in the garage and train in there. He loves it. This is his third race this year,” Stefan says. All of the training is well worth it as Stefan and Tristan reach the hay bales they have to carry in order to complete the second challenge.

After reaching the beacon at the third mandatory checkpoint, the teams begin the journey home. Though there are more challenges that can be completed, they are optional and only teams with members over 11 years old can attempt them. The final leg of the race is a cycling sprint down the road from which the race began. One-by-one, families cross the finish line, exhausted but exhilarated from the adventure they’ve just shared.

“I’ve done Rev3 races before. This was my first family race, and even for me, some of those challenges were pretty tough,” recalls Vanessa Plaza of Chantilly, VA. She and her teenaged son, Seth, were one of the few teams that braved each optional challenge the race threw at them.

Another Rev3 veteran, David Velis, loved the opportunity to compete alongside his sons Zachary, 8, and Nicholas, 9.

“This was actually our second Family Adventure Race,” says David. “We’ve done a geocaching event before but this one was different. It was a challenge. But it was a great time.”

“I’m really excited about it. I think this is going to be a great way to see the community and for us to spend a day together as a family,” Kathy says.

The Dill family powers through the opening bike ride to a meadow where racers drop their bikes to travel on foot across a cornfield. Far off in the distance, the first checkpoint, a digital beacon, awaits each team. Returning to where they left their bikes, competitors meet the first challenge of the day – pushing a mammoth hay roll across one of Willowsford’s sprawling fields. At this point, the field of competitors starts to divide. For some of the younger racers, the difficulty of the day’s event proves a test to their physical endurance. However, the smiles on their faces suggest that they’re ready for more.

In an adjacent field, one team has already completed the first challenge and is back on their bikes, pushing upward against the steep Virginia hillside.

“Show me the mountain goat!” Stefan Raab (pictured, right) cheers on his son Tristan as they pedal up the hill to the second challenge. At only 7 years old, Tristan already has two years of competitive mountain biking experience

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Kathy and Jeff Dill agree. “We loved it. The course was difficult but you could adapt your strategy to match your strengths. That flexibility was great,” says Kathy.

“And the kids had a blast,” Jeff adds. “They already want to do another, so I guess we’ll be back!”

As the race clock inches closer to 12:05 pm, the final competitors reach their goal. Among them is the Schneider family, who came here looking for something different that they could do together. As they cross the finish line, an emotional Andrea knows that they found it at Willowsford.

“I’m proud that we all did this together,” she says with tears in her eyes. “I’m just really proud of my family.”

™

Tips for the Novice Adventure Racer Ready to try it yourself?

Here’s a primer from Rev3 on how to prep for your first race!

Get comfortable with speed

Cross train

Learn to read a basic trail map

Buy a base model bike to start

Get your body used to quickly switching between muscle groups by mixing up walking, biking, running, and swimming.

Or try classes like Crossfit, which keep your body guessing.

The checkpoint isn’t always on a trail, and the fastest way there will almost certainly not be on one. Check out a Rev3 orienteering class at www.rev3adventure.com

Don’t spend too much on your first mountain bike. A shop like REI can outfit you with a bike that matches your skill level and budget. Just want to try it? Borrow a bike from a friend for your first time out.

REI offers free clinics to help you get adjusted to mountain biking so you can go fast enough to be competitive.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 25

homescape

Getaway

Everyday

Create an Amazing Sunroom

by Marlene Dennis Sunporch, solarium, Florida room, conservatory, even l’orangerie. The sunroom goes by many names and has just as many functions. Whatever you call this light-filled room, it’s often the most popular space in the house.

A sunroom is a wonderful place to entertain, play games, watch movies, and listen to music.

It’s also a great place to curl up with a book and enjoy the magic of a rainstorm or snowfall.

Designing a sunroom is a balancing act. How do you create a space that’s connected with the outdoors yet warm and cozy on the grayest March day? A room that‘s peaceful enough for a nap yet a great place to gather the family for a game of Scrabble?

Let’s explore some of the tips and techniques that will make your sunroom your new favorite room.

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homescape

make your sunroom your new favorite room.

Take in the view.

Storage is essential.

A pretty garden, a stand of forest, the setting sun. Given the opportunity, ensure your sunroom is focused on the best your property has to offer. Windows should be large and plentiful while still affording you the opportunity to furnish the room to your liking. Consider floating some of the upholstered pieces in the room to allow the windows and, of course, the views, to take center stage.

A bookcase or built-in with a stack of books you’re eager to read, your favorite magazines, a cocktail table with a drawer for cards, and a basket full of throw blankets tucked beside the sofa will keep all the essentials close at hand while keeping the space free of clutter.

Make it last.

Respect the style and feel of your home, but know that this is a wonderful opportunity to push boundaries. Try a bright or bold paint color, a fun fabric on your sofa or add a little sparkle with a chandelier. A brick or stone floor is ideal if you intend to have a lot of plants. Add a ceiling fan – not the standard big box fare but something a little more fun and decorative.

All that bright sunshine could take a toll on your upholstery, art and rugs. Consider plantation shutters, roman shades or draperies to protect your belongings from UV rays. There are many wonderful indoor/outdoor fabrics available today that you may want to consider for years of carefree living. If you are building your home, talk with your architect or designer about using low E366 glass in your windows. It will save you money on heating and cooling and protect your interior for years to come.

Consider how you live.

Make the most of limited space.

Enjoy the morning paper and a cup of coffee? A comfortable chair, a side table and a reading lamp are all you need to create a favorite spot. Add a small desk or writing table to a quiet corner of the room and make it your space to pay bills while enjoying the outdoors.

If you don’t have room for a full-size sunroom, create a cute faux version in front of a large window with a simple and comfortable seating area where you can sit back, unwind and take in the view.

Honor thy home but have fun.

Invite intimate conversation.

Create a room within a room by placing two chairs flanking a round pedestal table in a corner of the room facing the garden. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a cup of tea, work on a puzzle or have lunch with a friend.

Include the dogs.

Ensure you’ve considered all your friends! Space for a dog bed, a door to the outside and a basket of play toys will ensure your pet enjoys your new space just as much as you.

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Marlene Dennis is an interior designer based in Middleburg, Virginia. Her trademark easy elegance has evolved over the past 20 years and her interiors are known for their strong sense of classic and timeless style.

Marlene is the interior designer for Willowsford’s two community centers – The Sycamore House and The Lodge at Willow Lake.

Find Marlene at 540.623.4745 or md@marlenedennis.com

Bring the Outside In How to Grow Citrus Indoors

A great way to bring an air of freshness to your sunroom is to grow citrus indoors. The small trees not only add color to the room, but their blossoms’ scent will energize you all year long.

Plus, cooking with citrus brightens up any meal.

For an outstanding Orange Marmalade recipe from Bonnie Moore, Willowsford’s Culinary Director, visit her blog at www.WillowsfordRamblings.com

Here are a few simple tips for growing your own citrus.

Choose your tree. You can order citrus trees online in a number of varieties that are well suited to indoor growing. Try Washington Navel Orange, Trovita Orange, Calamondin Orange, Etrog Citron, Improved Meyer Lemon or Variegated Pink Lemon. www.fourwindsgrowers.com Select your soil. Use a mixture of 1 part sand, 1 part peat and 1 part bark for best results, then test the pH to make sure it’s in a range of 5-8. A 1˝-2˝ layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot will promote proper drainage.

Give it a nice, sunny spot. Citrus trees need a minimum of 5 hours of sunlight each day.

Humidity is a good thing. The Virginia climate is humid enough for citrus, which prefers 45-50% humidity, but indoor air may get too dry. Use a humidifier, if necessary.

Water regularly. Citrus is ready for a drink when its top 2 inches of soil are dry.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 29

Wood Fired Catering Brought to Your Door

Design M atters

For K. Hovnanian, Great Design Is Just Good Business

by Jaimee Reinertsen

PIZZERIA

What makes a new home capture someone’s heart? What is the magic alchemy of architecture, massing, space and volume, color and finishes that makes one home feel like one in a million? For one savvy homebuilder, the answer lies in one-of-a-kind design.

Perfect for: • Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners • Corporate Lunches • Happy Hours • Unforgettable Parties

Call Jay to schedule your next private event today 703-216-8630

www.pizzeriamoto.com VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 31

homescape Perhaps more than any other time in our history, design itself is creating a unique market opportunity. In the housing boom of the early 2000s, builders were in search of their Holy Grail – the universally appealing house type and floorplan. With record-high demand for homes in the era often referred to as “Build It and They Will Come,” builders relied on repetition of popular floorplans to improve efficiency and increase profit margins.

“The hardest thing to create in this market cycle is urgency, because not much is unique,” says Emilio Martinez, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for K. Hovnanian.

Neighborhoods with a lack of distinctive architecture – a “sameness” – became the norm and consumers were left with uninspiring options to choose from.

Today, consumers are much more cautious and discriminating with their home purchase. “They are laser focused on the right location, better design and materials, and more functional floor plans to improve their lives and protect their investment,” says Adam Ducker, a Principal with the national real estate advisory firm, RCLCO.

Recognizing a shift in consumer sentiment as well as a market opportunity, K. Hovnanian, a national homebuilder, introduced new homes for Willowsford, a community in Loudoun County that requires builders to design original, historically-inspired homes and use higher grade materials.

“But from the start, Willowsford established pretty rigorous design guidelines for anyone building in the community, to make sure the homes would be true to the architectural traditions of Loudoun County. No one else was doing that. We knew we could create uniqueness, which in turn creates urgency.”

K. Hovnanian met the challenge to create unique homes in three ways. First, by designing two architectural collections – the Craftsman Series and the Formal Series.

Second, through the use of quality building materials that contribute to the efficiency and enduring character of the homes. And third, through open and flexible floorplans that fit the way people really live today.

Inside, homeowners are loving the flexibility of the floorplans. “Our customers today want very open and spacious floorplans for great entertaining spaces and everyday family life. We’ve achieved this through features like 10-foot ceilings on the main level and oversized kitchen islands where everyone gathers.

Minimal walls on the main level also give it a wonderful open feel people are really responding to.”

With so much variety, K. Hovnanian has struck a chord with discerning buyers who want their homes to be special. “At Willowsford, the community concept is like nothing you can find anywhere else in the area,” Martinez says. “And then you buy your house and your house is unique. The likelihood of it being replicated is small because the design guidelines don’t allow us to put the same house type or house color next to each other.

That creates uniqueness. That creates urgency. And that’s good business.” (continued)

The first thing most people notice about K. Hovnanian’s homes is the color. “Vibrant, varied house colors are the beacons of our neighborhoods at Willowsford,” says Martinez. “We use James Hardie for all our siding and trim to get the most saturated colors we could find. They look like wood but don’t have the fading or maintenance issues. You’ll see reds, blues, yellows, and greens, with very little repetition.”

The colors are bold, but are complementary to Willowsford’s natural environment, which is seamlessly integrated into the neighborhoods. “We have quarteracre home sites, but with so many of them backing to open space and forested areas, it creates this illusion that your backyard goes on and on.”

From the front, a closer look reveals the architecture that sets these homes apart. Wrap-around front porches, 8-foot doors and oversized trim give the homes a mass and volume that make them feel quite grand.

“It took awhile for the homebuyers to embrace the simplicity of these designs, because it’s so different from what’s out there in this price range,” says Martinez.

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homescape 7

What makes a Willowsford home unique?

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K. Hovnanian Homes ®

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At Willowsford

Exterior home designs at Willowsford are based on historic styles prevalent in Loudoun County, including Folk Victorian, Gothic Revival, Federal and Queen Anne.

In deference to historic evolution, a Willowsford house mirrors the appearance of a house built over time.

Requirements include the use of high-quality materials and siting homes in a way that creates a cohesive, appealing streetscape.

– Exterior cladding must be brick, stone, stucco or cementious siding. Vinyl siding is not permitted.

– Windows, glass doors, sidelights and transoms must have authentic-style exterior muntins on the glass.

– Exterior-projecting fireplaces must be masonry.

– Roofs must, at a minimum, have architectural-grade shingles.

– Porches are encouraged that are classically designed and style-specific.

– Garage doors are not permitted to face the street unless set back toward the rear of the house.

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K. hovnanian chadwick 1

Deep Roof Eaves with Elaborate Brackets

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Cementious Clapboard Siding

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High Quality Windows with Authentic

Muntins on the Exterior of the Glass

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Architectural–Grade Roof Shingles

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Cementious Shake Shingle Siding

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Dental Style Cornice

K. Hovnanian® is a family-owned and operated, national homebuilder that has been committed to excellence since 1959, and today builds in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, the Southeast, the Midwest, Texas and Arizona. The company combines its national experience with a local focus in each market, which led the Willowsford development team to select K. Hovnanian® as one of Willowsford’s dedicated homebuilders. K. Hovnanian® custom-created a new line of homes specifically for Willowsford that capture Virginia’s history, with architecture inspired by heirloom family farmhouses and Colonial manors. Interiors offer up to six bedrooms and up to four-and-a-half baths, with up to 4,200+ square feet of thoughtfully appointed space.

Front porches and porticos enter into genteel, welcoming foyers, gourmet kitchens open to light-filled great rooms that are the hearts of the homes, and gracious owner’s suites soothe away the stress of daily life.

Bungalow Style Porch with Tapered 10 True

Columns and Masonry Foundation 11

Doors, Sidelights and Transoms with Authentic–Style Exterior Applied Muntins on the Glass

Single-Family Homes from the low $600s | WillowsfordKH.com 23510 Founders Drive, Ashburn, VA 20148 | (703) 885-7183

Willowsford at Sunset

Van Metre Homes

Set in the rolling landscape of Loudoun County, the new community of Willowsford is as distinctive for its homes and natural community design as it is for what’s been left untouched – 2,000 acres of shared open space.

Which means plenty of room to explore, to play, to grow, and to dream in nature’s own peace and quiet – right in your back yard. And that’s a good thing, because the best adventures begin and end at home.

At Willowsford Van Metre Homes is a locally based, family-owned community developer and luxury homebuilder that has been reshaping the National Capital suburbs for nearly 60 years. Today, they are helping Willowsford take shape with new home designs specifically crafted for the community and available nowhere else. These new Van Metre Homes are 4,300 to over 5,600 square feet, occupying homesites of ¾ to over an acre. Designed in the style of historic Virginia estates, they blend classic elements such as dual staircases, sweeping views and charming porches with modern touches like dual owner’s suites, gourmet kitchens, and morning rooms. Homebuyers can personalize their new Van Metre Home at Willowsford through the Dream Home Portfolio which offers the easy path to customize the home of your dreams. Van Metre Homes at Willowsford will be fully ENERGY STAR® 3.0 compliant for utility bills up to 30% lower, according to the EPA. Few homebuilders anywhere can claim the respect that Van Metre has earned since 1955, and their new designs for Willowsford further prove that Van Metre Homes builds trust for generations.

™

Priced from the $800s Tenant House Information Center 23510 Founders Drive, Ashburn, VA 20148 703-764-5448 Model Open Daily 11-6pm Prices are subject to change without notice. See Sales Manager for details. March 2013.

B U I L D I N G T R U S T F O R G E N E R AT I O N S

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SINCE 1955

WillowsfordVM.com America’s 2013 Community of the Year!

The Willowsford Story forests, rolling meadows and agricultural fields punctuated by hedgerows and woodland streams that will be maintained through a variety of sustainable uses intended to connect residents to the land and its legacy, such as Willowsford Farm.

This remarkable lifestyle connection is further enhanced by a variety of distinctive and engaging recreational areas and programs. Sycamore House and The Lodge at Willow Lake, two of the community centerpieces, will include resort-quality amenities. These signature facilities showcase Willowsford’s farm-to-table attributes by supporting a variety of culinary activities and have been thoughtfully planned to provide residents with a range of exceptional indoor and outdoor features that will appeal to all ages, including two distinctive pool complexes with a spray-andplay park, state-of-the-art fitness facilities and a village green framed by decorative gardens.

“Road of Plenty,” Winner – Grand Prize, Piedmont Council Taken at The Greens at Willowsford

The keystone of the Willowsford vision is “Inspired Living,” establishing grounded connections for the community and its residents to enrich their quality and variety of life. Willowsford draws on Virginia’s scenic landscape and rich agricultural heritage to create a community defined by its expansive natural beauty, unique and engaging recreational spaces, a strong food and farm connection, and activities that encourage an appreciation for the environment and land stewardship.

40 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

Located in the heart of Loudoun County, Willowsford spans over 4,000 acres and is comprised of four distinctive “villages” interrelated within the framework of the overall community: The Grange, The Grant, The Grove and The Greens. More than half of the land in the community is designated to remain as open space under the stewardship of the Willowsford Conservancy, a nonprofit organization specially formed to oversee and maintain Willowsford’s extensive natural resources. This scenic naturescape strongly characterizes the traditional Virginia countryside, with lush

Willowsford grew by leaps and bounds in 2012, having welcomed new builders and finalized amenities, like 2 resort-style pools, an extensive trail network, a lake for nonmotorized boating and fishing, an amphitheatre, a dog park, camping and interpretive nature areas, with plenty more exciting additions yet to come. The emphasis on open space as a recreational amenity, sustainable agriculture and the authentic character are all intended to integrate Willowsford into the local landscape in a way that has not been done before in Northern Virginia, creating a unique environment and a sense of place that sets Willowsford apart from other communities.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 41

Country Charm Modern Convenience Willowsford is located in the heart of Loudoun County, between Virginia hunt country and thriving eastern Loudoun County, at the foothills of the Northern Virginia Piedmont along historic Route 50. The community offers convenient access to transportation and major employment centers in Northern Virginia.

Washington Dulles International Airport, Reston Town Center, Route 28, the Dulles Toll Road and I-66 are all accessible within approximately 15 minutes. The Metrorail extension to the airport and beyond to Route 772 (Ryan Road) is currently underway with projected completion in 2017. ™

Tenant House Information Center 23510 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148

607

Boat House Information Center 41095 Braddock Road Aldie, VA 20105 Open Daily 11am - 6pm 571-297-2000 For directions, visit www.willowsford.com 42 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

Brimming with history, character, and economic vitality, the local landscape is a patchwork of agricultural fields, rolling meadows, woodlands, residential neighborhoods, shopping and public parks. Willowsford’s exceptional location represents a union between the typically suburban and more densely developed areas east and the pastoral countryside dotted with small hamlets further west. This duality supports the Willowsford vision to enrich the lives of its residents through meaningful connections to nature, neighbors, and Virginia’s rich history. Willowsford offers the best of all possibilities – the charm and character of the countryside with state-of-the-art amenities and a convenient location.

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VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 43

THE

C O N S E RVA N C Y The objectives of the Conservancy are: • T o manage and maintain Willowsford’s ‘naturescape’ of forests, trails, streams, parklands and agricultural resources.

• To program educational activities and services that connect and enhance the lifestyle of Willowsford residents.

• To establish a beneficial relationship between other community governance programs and initiatives within Willowsford.

• To provide a framework for supporting its operations, activities and services.

The Willowsford Conservancy was created to help residents connect with the land, with nature and with each other.

With more than 2,000 acres of scenic “Naturescapes” – including lush forests, rolling meadows and agricultural fields traversed by hedgerows and woodland streams – the sweeping Virginia landscape itself is one of Willowsford’s most important, defining amenities. The community’s Naturescapes are interconnected by more than 40 miles of planned nature trails and walkways of varying intensity. So whether you like to hike, bike, or just savor incredible views on a quiet, reflective walk in nature, Willowsford offers myriad opportunities to connect with the environment and experience this stunning pastoral setting with family and friends.

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The Willowsford Conservancy advocates and encourages an appreciation for the environment and land stewardship. The Conservancy sets the tone for the community’s lifestyle by working to support the core Willowsford philosophies of interaction with the land, with nature, and with family and friends in ways that make everyday life here rewarding, fulfilling…and fun. The Willowsford Conservancy is a nonprofit 501(c) 4 organization, with the mission and authority to foster and preserve a true sense of “community” at Willowsford – a place where people put down roots, build relationships and get involved in a way that enhances their lifestyle and that of the community at large.

ming Far

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Qualities that redefine Virginia living: • O ver 4,000 acres of natural Virginia countryside with 2,000 acres of open space, bordered by traditional low stone walls and four-board fencing along rolling pastures bounded by hedgerows and lush forested areas • A n inspiring collection of fine single-family homes • M iles of nature trails offering varying degrees of intensity for walking, hiking and biking • W illow Lake for canoeing, kayaking and fishing

The vintage 1948 Willowsford farm truck, the traveling "ambassador" for the community.

• U nique amenity areas for a wide variety of outdoor recreational pursuits, including a dog park, picnic and camping areas, and a sledding hill

• W illowsford Farm, offering fresh seasonal produce, an annual CSA program, a Farm Stand and a u-pick garden • Culinary classes, demonstrations and events in exceptional settings • Resort-style pools with cabanas and a children’s spray-and-play pool • O utdoor amphitheatre and village green for community and other special events • An engaging selection of programs and activities designed to connect adults, children and neighbors

Inspir ed Living ing

What would you like to do today?

Boating and fishing? Swimming?

Hiking? Biking? Gardening? Yoga?

Or perhaps, a cooking class or demonstration by a local chef to add to your own culinary repertoire? Willowsford offers all of these – and more! So, no matter what inspires you, outdoors or in, the community’s unique array of planned recreational and social amenities let you and your family indulge in all of your favorite pastimes, and explore some new ones. Make every day a truly fulfilling experience in the scenic beauty of Willowsford.

At Willowsford, the “great outdoors” is a signature aspect of life. With more than 2,000 acres of scenic naturescape – including forests, streams and meadows connected by miles and miles of trails – residents can exercise, spend time with neighbors, let their dogs play in the dog park, or just savor incredible views and a quiet, reflective walk in nature.

46 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 47

Farm-to-Table Comes Home.

Farm-to-table food. Locally grown produce. Seasonal eating. These ideas have gained strength in Americans’ consciousness over the past few years. Now these healthy concepts will “come home” through Willowsford Farm and the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.

48 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

Each year, from May to November, CSA members enjoy a weekly farm share of fresh, mixed vegetables and fruit.

Weekly newsletters inform members of the produce picks they can expect to find in that week’s share, along with tips and recipes from Willowsford’s Culinary Director on how to prepare them. Visit WillowsfordFarm.com to learn more and to sign up for the upcoming CSA program.

Willowsford Farm’s homegrown harvests will include a variety of seasonal produce, and some that residents can even pick for themselves. Our farm is right at your back door, so it does not get fresher than this – from mixed vegetables and berries to flowers and herbs. Our professional farmer and staff ensure that everything produced by Willowsford Farm is grown with integrity using methods that enhance our natural and agricultural resources.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 49

The Sycamore House

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The Sycamore House represents a true community hub for recreational activities and neighborly interaction in Willowsford. The centerpiece of The Grange, The Sycamore House engages residents and guests by interweaving the history of the area with local food and wine appreciation, social gatherings, and opportunities for relaxation. In keeping with the area’s agricultural heritage, the design for The Sycamore House is reminiscent of a countryside manor. The rambling “estate” also includes The Tenant House, constructed using re-purposed stone and wood from a historical structure built on the property circa 1800. The Tenant House is a favorite gathering spot for everyone who comes to Willowsford. These exceptional locations, along with the resort-style swimming pool at The Sycamore House, have quickly become must-visit destinations. The Tenant House Information Center welcomes visitors daily from 11 am to 6 pm.

The Lodge at Willow Lake

The Lodge at Willow Lake is a vibrant recreation area that embodies the active, natural lifestyle offered

by Willowsford. The Lodge is designed to enjoy inspiring views over its large sweeping lawns and across Willow Lake, framed by the picturesque meadow and forest beyond. Its architecture is a blend of sophisticated yet rustic design, reminiscent of a large family lake house. The centerpiece of The Lodge is its impressive new resort-style swimming pool and separate spray-and-play pool for kids. The pools overlook Willow Lake, offering breathtaking views and an inviting panorama from the terraced sun deck. Ground was broken on The Lodge in Fall 2012, to be completed Fall 2013 when it will become the host location of Willowsford’s signature event: A Taste of Willowsford. The camp-like, fun atmosphere of The Lodge extends to The Boat House Information Center, located directly on Willow Lake. The Boat House is a great recreational amenity with a fishing pier, fire pit, grilling area and shed for kayaks and canoes. The Boat House Information Center welcomes visitors daily from 11 am to 6 pm.

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The Grange is defined by its natural setting, with rolling hills and woodlands traversed by Upper Broad Run, creating a timeless backdrop for the classic design features integrated into its traditional agricultural areas. The Grange is a key activity center located in the heart of the community and features The Sycamore House recreation center, The Tenant House Information Center, the Amphitheatre, Willowsford Farm and a number of other unique amenity areas accessible from its trail network, including a dog park and community garden.

52 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

Stretching from its secluded entrance off Evergreen Mills Road southwest to Route 50, The Grant is defined by its expansive natural backdrop, featuring lush forested areas and scenic meadowlands bordered by the hedgerows traditional to Loudoun County. A village loop and extensive nature trail network are designed to access the unspoiled beauty of more than 1,000 acres of naturescape, linking multiple parks and camping facilities. In keeping with its natural elegance and “wide open spaces,” The Grant offers some of the largest estate lots in Willowsford.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 53

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The Grove has an active, outdoor appeal characterized by its mature forests intertwined by two woodland streams, a park and nature area, and its close proximity to The Lodge at Willow Lake, adjacent to its southern border (in The Greens). The character of this village is emphasized by a scenic, main thoroughfare running along forests and parklands to connect its individual neighborhoods. Whether an outing with family and friends, or a quiet contemplative stroll through the woods, The Grove inspires interaction with the land and with nature.

ROAD

The Greens is the largest village in Willowsford, defined by an extensive patchwork of scenic forests, meadows and agricultural land of rambling topography extending from Braddock Road down to its southern border along Bull Run Creek. In keeping with this diverse landscape, The Greens is designed to offer a variety of living and entertainment options. The Lodge at Willow Lake, a resident destination for sports and outdoor recreation, is located along its northern boundary. Nearby is the trailhead for a loop trail that circumnavigates the entire village with varying degrees of intensity to interconnect planned camping and picnic areas.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 55

The Willowsford Home Willowsford introduces a distinctive selection of signature home designs on generous homesites ranging from ¼-acre to over 2 acres. Each collection of new homes has been exclusively designed by Willowsford’s builders to support the community vision and meet rigorous architectural design guidelines. Ranging in price from the $500,000s to over $1,000,000, these unique home designs are only available within Willowsford.

The architectural design guidelines for Willowsford were thoughtfully created to capture the rich, varied character and charm of Loudoun County, and are based on three historical categories: Formal, Arts and Crafts 56 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

and Picturesque. This program establishes the design framework to create a diversified and scenic streetscape in harmony with the natural landscape of Willowsford and rooted in the area’s heritage. Each home design is further enhanced by a quality selection of building materials which support the architectural style, authentic character and the latest technology.

For more information about the current builders’ collections in Willowsford, visit the community website at www.willowsfordhome.com.

VOL 1 Spring 2013 | 57

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© 2013 Willowsford, L.L.C., Willowsford, Willowsford Conservancy, Inspired, Inspired Living, and A Naturally Planned Community are all trademarks of Willowsford, L.L.C. (“Owner”). All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this magazine is expressly prohibited. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising matter.

The information, illustrations, maps, and depictions contained in this magazine concerning the Willowsford development are based on the current proposed development concepts and actual development may vary from what is depicted. As the Owner’s vision for the project evolves, facilities, features and other components are subject to change. Certain features and amenities depicted within the magazine have not yet been, and may not be, constructed. Dues, fees and assessments may be imposed for the use of some amenities. Photographs and images are not necessarily of the Willowsford development, are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of any features or designs of any specific community, neighborhood, amenities, facilities or improvements.

The information in this magazine is only intended as general information about Willowsford and the surrounding community and is not an offer or solicitation to sell property. Lots within Willowsford are not for sale to individual buyers. Owner intends to only sell lots to unaffiliated homebuilders. If you are interested in purchasing a lot within Willowsford, please contact homebuilders building within the community. All information concerning homes and homebuilders within this publication was provided by the builders and not independently verified by Owner.

Owner does not warrant or guarantee the obligations, construction, or pricing of builders who may build and sell homes in this community.

Buyers of homes in Willowsford contract directly with the builder and must rely solely on their own investigation and judgment of the builder’s construction and financial capabilities in as much as Owner does not warrant or guarantee such capabilities, nor does Owner warrant or guarantee the design, pricing, engineering, construction, or availability of any home or any other building constructed by such builder or the obligations of any such builder to the buyer.

This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law.

Owner encourages and supports an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are not barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. March 2013.

™

WillowsfordMG.com | 571-297-2000

stewardship

Local Wood

Each resident receives a specially made Willowsford cutting board as part of their homeowner’s gift.

by Jaimee Reinertsen

“We’d like to see more developers commit to harvesting the woods they’re clearing for re-use,” says Beach. “It’s no more costly or time consuming, and keeps all the wood from being turned into mulch or being put in a landfill. Willowsford is unique in their commitment to it, but hopefully they’re leading the way for other developers.”

Patrons who want custom furniture, built-in bookshelves, unique mantels or even staircases with instant character are seeking out Local Wood for the conversation-piece character of their work. “There’s something just special about owning something that has a story and can’t be duplicated,” says Beach.

“The great thing is, you get to see the process all the way through, and even the final product can be changed, too, until it’s exactly what you want,” says Carpenter.

“You can’t get that with production-built.”

Visit Local Wood at www.LocalWoodVA.com

How to Design

Just off Route 7, in the bucolic pastures of Berryville, a kiln the size of a large shed dries lumber day and night at a custom carpentry shop called Local Wood.

Once dried, the lumber will be carved, shaped and sanded by Local Wood’s craftsmen into one-of-a-kind park benches, picnic tables, front doors, hardwood floors, or heirloom farm tables.

Each piece has a story. Some claim their heritage from log cabins or old barns in Virginia’s rural counties. Some were once trees on private property that fell in a storm, and were brought to Local Wood for new life.

But the story of this particular batch of lumber would have been much different had it not been for an uncommon arrangement. This batch comes from Willowsford, from trees being harvested as the community is developed.

“Throughout the development of Willowsford, we’ve been very selective about clearing, because our goal is to limit the environmental impact of development,” said

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Mark Trostle, Executive Vice President at Willowsford, LLC. “We’ve conserved about half of the entire property as natural woodlands and meadows, but some trees do have to be harvested. The question, then, is how to make the best use of them.”

When Willowsford met Charlie Beach and Scott Carpenter, co-owners of Local Wood, it had its answer.

Using a portable sawmill, Local Wood quarters the lumber on site, then hauls it to its workshop where it’s dried and stored, either for use at Willowsford or for people who want to commission a custom project.

At Willowsford, Local Wood has handcrafted the benches on the nature trails, picnic tables throughout the community, and will provide the trim and flooring for much of The Lodge and The Sycamore House. Each resident receives a specially made Willowsford cutting board as part of their homeowner’s gift.

Your One-Of-A-Kind

Get inspired. Magazines, catalogues and Pinterest are great places to look for images of pieces you like. What’s trending? “Big, iconic farm tables are something we’re making a lot of lately,” says Carpenter.

Bounce ideas around. Beach and Carpenter love collaborating with clients. “We’re a made-to-order shop,” Carpenter notes, “so we love when people get creative.”

Get an estimate. You may find it’s less than you think.

“We’re competitive if not lower than any other custom craftsman,” Carpenter says. “Because we’ve already got the raw material, we cut out the retail cost people usually have to spend when they work with someone who then buys the wood and resells it to them at a markup,” Beach adds. “We also save the shipping costs of having something come in from California.”

Approve a drawing. Local Wood will give you a design sketch of the finished product.

Put your name on it. After determining the best wood for the job, Beach and Carpenter will help you select a slab from their storehouse, where you can compare color, character and grain patterns.

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inspired living

For more information on upcoming community events, visit www.Willowsford.com/news

kids’ corner

The

Wonder Years

How Children Learn to Love the Land

collaborate, cooperate and settle our differences. We felt a connection to our surroundings and experienced the natural rhythm of seasons. We witnessed life and, occasionally, death. We were fortunate to have these adventures in the ditch; for me, the seeds of a lifelong passion for the outdoors and love of the natural world were planted in these childhood escapades.

Today, as indoor commitments make increasing demands on our time, it is more important than ever to prioritize time outdoors in nature for our children – and not just because it’s fun (although it is!).

When we conserve land and protect nature, we also protect our own health and well being. When children understand they are part of the interconnectedness between all living things, they begin to grasp the importance of each part’s role and why we must protect the natural world, now and in the future.

Like all growing things, children need open spaces, abundant fresh air and sunshine to thrive. They should

Search the Internet for “children and nature” and you will find numerous studies citing the benefits of outdoor play.

Decreases in body mass index, reductions in Attention Deficit Disorder symptoms, increases in concentration and focus, and a lower incidence of depression are observed in children who spend time in nature.

Preschool children who play outdoors exhibit better self-efficacy, early literacy skills and even better eyesight.

High school students attending schools with larger windows score higher on SATs. Clearly, nature has many positive social, emotional, intellectual and physical effects on children.

But even more importantly, playing outdoors allows a child to make a connection to the land, which is critical in fostering a love for the natural world.

by Donna Quinn

“

… a ditch somewhere – or a creek, meadow, woodlot, or marsh… These are places of initiation, where the borders between ourselves and other creatures break down, where the earth gets under our nails and a sense of place gets under our skin…

Everybody has a ditch, or ought to.

For only the ditches and the field, the woods, the ravines – can teach us to care enough for all the land.

My childhood memories are rich with adventures in our neighborhood ditch and the nearby meadow. We made mud pies decorated with violets and twig candles, caught crayfish and turned over rocks in search of salamanders.

We marveled at stick bugs, captured fireflies, waged wars, held weddings and built forts.

Robert Michael Pyle, The Thunder Tree, Lessons from an Urban Wildland, 1993

It was a place that taught us things we could not learn in school or from our parents. We learned how to

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”

We were a motley group of various ages and I’m sure we had our share of disagreements and went home filthy.

However, what I remember most was the enchantment of this special space, now long gone. It was a common enough place, but it became sacred to those of us who played in it.

Great things also happen when families experience nature together. Busy schedules, high-pressure jobs and electronics often take us away from nature and each other. However, by simply stepping out the door and unplugging from cell phones, computers and televisions, parents and children become emotionally and physically available to each other. Families that engage in nature activities learn together, and cultivate respect and reciprocity in their relationships. These shared experiences nurture strong family bonds while encouraging cooperation and compassion. When parents and children connect with nature, they also connect with one another.

get wet frequently and feel dirt under their feet. They need to root around and explore to discover their place in our world. It is why we conserve land and invite our children to step outside. Children’s outdoor play spaces may be as humble as a ditch, but these special places capture hearts and imaginations and remain a part of them for life.

Donna Quinn is a board member with Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy. Organizations such as the Willowsford Conservancy, Willowsford Farm, and Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy provide numerous opportunities to learn about nature locally. Nature walks with experienced walk leaders reveal seasonal wonders and impart valuable lessons about the natural world. Citizen science projects like Bluebird trail monitoring allow families to experience nature on a deeply intimate level. Habitat restoration projects engage the community in the shared mission of protecting and cultivating the natural world. Farm workshops provide learning opportunities about plants, insects and animals in the garden at the farm.

For more information on nature activities for your family, visit Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy at www.loudounwildlife.org

We need nature and nature needs us. Together, plants, insects and animals provide us with food, generate oxygen, purify water and recycle waste. Once we recognize the tremendous significance and intricacy of these natural systems, it becomes frightening to think about what would happen without them.

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rooted

Noble

Other swift and elegant horses can be seen in May when private farms open their barn doors for the Hunt Country Stable Tour on Memorial Day weekend. Visitors can meander down the local lanes on a self-guided, 12-stop tour past crumbling dry stone Civil War-era walls, which serve as an austere reminder of the area’s revered history.

Traditions

By Vicky Moon

Consider a crack-of-dawn viewing as race horses breeze and gallop at the 7/8-mile Middleburg training track.

Or stop at the 420-acre Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension (MARE) Center for a peek at foal handling and (yes) equine treadmill demonstrations.

Each June since 1853, the Upperville Colt and Horse Show, the oldest horse show in the United States, takes place at Grafton and Salem Farm. The grand finale, the $75,000 Upperville Jumper Classic, is contested on the final Sunday. (Be sure to arrive early for the ever-popular Jack Russell terrier races, too.)

And finally, for those ready to stop spectating and saddle up, Virginia International Polo School offers lessons on riding horses and playing polo. The matches and instruction all take place on the breathtaking Llangollen estate in Upperville. You don’t even need to own your horse...yet.

UP FOR A RIDE

Photo by Tod Marks

Upcoming races, tours and lessons Horses have provided an enchanting way of life in Middleburg since the noble British sport of fox chasing caught on and George Washington rode to hounds in this area. Nearly 200 years later, in the early 1960s, another president and his wife came to town and put Middleburg forever on the map. President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jackie Kennedy found the idyllic country setting the perfect refuge from the pressures of The White House.

Other well-known inhabitants included industrialists Averell and Pamela Harriman; Hollywood celebrities Dick Smothers, Tab Hunter and Robert Duvall; and philanthropists Paul Mellon and Diana and Bert Firestone.

“As far as horses go, they were always very important around here and then the Kennedys came along and horses and Middleburg have been growing ever since,” says photographer Howard Allen, who has chronicled the horses, the Kennedys and Middleburg since he opened his business in 1955.

Since then, many notable horse-loving names past and present have made Middleburg their home. Elizabeth Taylor once caused quite a stir when she married thenSenator John Warner and took up residence on his farm.

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Photo by Howard Allen

So focused on the race, spectators never noticed President John F. Kennedy during the few moments he joined them to watch.

While some may expect the nature of horse sports to be aristocratic and inaccessible, nothing could be further from the truth in these parts. These are traditions that bind the community and define its character.

The 92nd Running of the Middleburg Spring Races

Let’s begin with the annual Middleburg Spring Races, held at 112-acre Glenwood Park each April. For the past 92 years, spectators have gathered along the rail and on the hillside to watch the steeplechase races as jockeys in vibrant silks soar over fences at breakneck speeds.

160th Upperville Horse Show

It’s even possible to get up close and personal with these steeplechase horses as they parade in the paddock area before the race while nearby bookmakers (now legal) take bets. A number of great thoroughbred race horses have had Middleburg connections, such as the Firestones’ Genuine Risk, the first filly in 65 years to win the Kentucky Derby; Paul Mellon’s Sea Hero, winner of the 1993 Kentucky Derby; and Joe Albritton’s Hansel, the ’91 Preakness and Belmont winner.

Saturday, April 20 at Glenwood Park Racecourse, Middleburg, post time 1 pm www.middleburgspringraces.com Monday, June 3 through Sunday, June 9 Grafton and Salem Farm. www.upperville.com

54th Hunt Country Stable Tour May 25-26 beginning at Trinity Episcopal Church www.HuntCountryStableTour.org

Virginia International Polo May to November lessons and matches at Llangollen Farm Upperville www.vipoloclub.com

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Arcadia Communities At Willowsford

at Willowsford

TM

Arcadia Communities, with over 50 years experience in the new home building industry from the Mid-Atlantic to the San Francisco Bay area, is a family company that offers more value with proven building practices and materials, providing better energy efficiency and lower utility costs. Arcadia Communities in The Grant village at Willowsford features fresh new designs and livable floorplans with breathtaking views of rolling meadows on ž- to 1½-acre home sites. These brand new home designs are exclusive to Willowsford, with an unexpected openness that seamlessly integrates the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape with the internal elegance of floor plans that celebrate the way homeowners live today.

Willowsford.com/Arcadia 41095 Braddock Road, Aldie, VA 20105 | (703) 431-6589

inspired reflection

“Life stands before me like an eternal spring with new and brilliant clothes.”

Beazer Homes

Ashland Model

Carl Friedrich Gauss

At Willowsford Beazer Homes, one of the top ten homebuilders in the U.S., is pleased to present three, brand new home designs at Willowsford. Each of these homes is inspired by craftsman-style architecture reflecting old-world style combined with the modern conveniences you love. Homeowners will love the welcoming front porches, gabled roofs and multitude of windows that each of our exteriors will offer. The interior of the homes feature between 3,090 to just over 3,620 square feet of finished living space, 4 bedrooms, 2 ½ to 4 ½ bathrooms and a variety of high end details and finishes. Beazer builds homes that meet and exceed ENERGY STAR® requirements offering increased savings and a lower ongoing cost of ownership.

Priced from the Upper $500s Boat House Information Center 41095 Braddock Road Aldie, VA 20105 703-327-2964 Model Open Daily 11-6pm 70 | VOL 1 Spring 2013

WillowsfordBE.com

Prices, features, and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. Homes started after 2/14/11 will be ENERGY STAR® homes.

To find out whether a particular home is qualified, contact your Beazer New Home Counselor. ©2013 Beazer Homes

Camberley Homes at Willowsford

Farm-to-table comes home As part of the Willowsford community, Willowsford Farm makes “locally grown,” “farm-to-table” and “seasonal eating” a part of everyday life.

“ Willowsford Farm has done a fabulous job of bringing fresh farm fare back to the table for our family.”

The Farm Stand in The Grange offers: • Produce and prepared foods • Gardening workshops • Cooking demonstrations • Children’s programs

Camberley Homes, formed by Winchester Homes, one of the region’s most respected names in residential homebuilding, was created to provide its clients with not just a distinctive home, but with a customized homebuilding experience. Designed exclusively for the much anticipated Grant village at Willowsford, the architecture of Camberley’s Willowsford Collection will feature a classic/contemporary feel – open floorplans, abundant windows and flexible spaces that can easily accommodate today’s diverse living styles. Ranging from approximately 4,000 to nearly 5,000 square feet of quality craftsmanship and stylish comfort, Camberley Homes at Willowsford will offer timeless architectural designs and a personalized home buying experience on beautiful wooded ¾- to 1½-acre home sites.

–Willowsford CSA member

The Farm Stand is open May through November. Check our website for updates!

Visit WillowsfordFarm.com to sign up for the 2013 CSA and to learn more about Willowsford and Willowsford Farm.

Willowsford is a 4,000-acre community in Loudoun County, 2,000 acres of which have been conserved for environmental preservation, recreation and agricultural use.

WillowsfordFarm.com at Willowsford

TM

Single-Family Homes from the upper $800s | Willowsford.com/Camberley 23510 Founders Drive, Ashburn, VA 20148 | (703) 258-9335

This material shall not constitute an offer or solicitation in any state where prior registration is required. © 2013 Willowsford, L.L.C. Willowsford, Willowsford Conservancy, Inspired Living and Naturally Planned Community are all trademarks of Willowsford, L.L.C. March 2013.

J oi n T he W illowsford F arm C S A Sign up for our 2013 season As a member of Willowsford’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, you’ll enjoy a weekly farm share of fresh, mixed vegetables and fruit.

Each week’s share includes 6-10 items, such as a pint of cherry tomatoes, a head of lettuce, a melon, 2-3 pounds of sweet potatoes, etc.

CSA seasons run from May to HERE November FOLD OUT PANEL PRINTS Pick up your share every Wednesday or Saturday at Willowsford Farm in The Grange or at the Boat House Information Center Membership perks include Loudoun County wine and weekly tips and recipes from Willowsford’s Culinary Director CSA membership priced at $700 for the season Learn more at www.WillowsfordFarm.com

™

Room to

Roam.

Where Your Home Comes with a 2,000-acre Back Yard.

Inspired Single-Family Homes in America’s 2013 Community of the Year

WillowsfordMG.com Prices and terms set forth herein are provided by homebuilders within Willowsford who are not affiliated with the owner and developer of the community. Such prices and terms, and the quality of the home builder’s homes, are not verified or warranted by owner Willowsford, L.L.C. or its affiliates. Dues, fees and assessments may be imposed for the use of some amenities. This material shall not constitute an offer or solicitation in any state where prior registration is required. © 2013 Willowsford, L.L.C. Willowsford, Willowsford Conservancy, Inspired Living and A Naturally Planned Community are all trademarks of Willowsford, L.L.C. March 2013