Charlotte URBAN
Transcription
Charlotte URBAN
HOME CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE October / November 2015 Charlotte URBAN new old CUSTOM HOMES www.newold.com Livable Luxury FEATURED: OUR NEW HANDCRAFTED GARNER TABLE AND LARKIN HOST CHAIRS. ENJOY SPECIAL FALL SAVINGS OF UP TO 20% THROUGHOUT THE DESIGN CENTER. S I N C E 1 9 3 2 PINEVILLE 11516 CAROLINA PLACE PARKWAY 704.341.7512 Sale going on for a limited time only. Some exclusions apply. Ask a designer or visit ethanallen.com for details. ©2015 Ethan Allen Global, Inc. Design Landscape and lighting installed by the Morgan Landscape Group. | Installation “Keeping Charlotte Green” Outdoor Living | Maintenance www . morganlandscapegroup . com • 704.588.2292 Architect: Ann Stanley Photo: Jim Schmid Unveil your masterpiece. Great design has the power to transform your At Advanced Renovations, we are the design-build home—and your lifestyle. To redefine an old space experts. Following our proven four-step process, with new function. To carve out a relaxing retreat we’ll guide you every step of the way through under your own roof. To create an inviting oasis that each decision and detail, from concept to product draws together friends and family. selection and beyond. You’ll enjoy watching your vision become reality while we manage every aspect to ensure flawless execution. Additions & Renovations • Kitchens & Baths • Outdoor Living www.advancedrenovations.com • 704-799-3999 HOME CHARLOTTE URBAN CONTENTS october/november 2015 14 CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN AND PERSONAL STYLE Reaching 198,000 homes annually October/November 2015 34 VOL 15 NO 5 www.urbanhomemagazine.com Publisher Mark Herrmann Managing Editor Anne Marie Ashley Editorial Director Tammy Wanchisn Writers Anne Marie Ashley Nancy Atkinson Laura Jackson Page Leggett Brandy Snow Dana Todd Sales Gayle Sebastian home design Art Direction Harriet McDowall PageCreations Photography Dustin Peck www.dustinpeckphoto.com feature home 28 Mid-Town Funk contributing editors feature home 34 Greener Pastures kitchen design: catherine whitney 66 Charlotte Then & Now Phone 704-332-1504 spaces we love 40 Designer: Heather Smith with Emily Bourgeois and B. Whittington Construction building a better home: trent haston 74 A Touch of Glass Fax 704-973-5685 trending the gallery: jerald melberg 84 The Art of Discernment Contributing Editors Trent Haston Beth Keim Jerald Melberg Catherine Whitney Production Administrator Shelley Kemper Email: comments@urbanhomemagazine.com Website: www.urbanhomemagazine.com facebook.com/UrbanHomeMags feature home 14 High Country Modern @urbanhomemags houzz.com/pro/urbanhomemagazine pinterest.com/urbanhomemag instagram.com/urbanhomemagazine All contents copyright 2015, Casey Communications Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent from publisher. Mention of any product or service does not constitute endorsement from Urban Home Magazine. The information contained in this publication is deemed reliable from third party sources, but not guaranteed. Casey Communications Inc. does not act as an agent for any of the advertisers in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified remodeling, home furnishings or home improvement firm based on your own selection criteria. Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Urban Home Magazine, will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate which is a violation of the Fair Housing Act. All real estate advertising in Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Urban Home Magazine, is subject to the Fair Housing Act which states “We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.” Casey Communications Inc., d.b.a. Urban Home Magazine, does not act as an agent for any of the realtors or builders in this publication. It is recommended that you choose a qualified realtor to assist you in your new home purchase. decorating 46Transformers Room To Room Lighting Tips decorating 52 Transcending the Ages kitchen + bath 56 Making A Solid Choice: Our Guide To Countertops departments room service: beth keim 92 Peaceful Slumber resources remodeling 62 Little House, Big Features decorating 70 Designing in a Digital Age essentials 82Luminous decorating 78 Feel-Good Design lifestyles 96 Explore Charlotte outdoors 88 Season’s Change 8 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 50% Off Hardwood Installation 30% Off Hardwood Refinishing Hardwood • Bamboo • Cork • Laminate • Luxury Vinyl 704-391-9845 Visit our designer showroom located at 1300 South Blvd, Charlotte NC www.UnitedFlooringGroup.com Serving Greater Charlotte Metro Area from Mooresville to Rock Hill 4930 Hickory Blvd l Granite Falls, NC 28630 l 828.313.1290 l factorystore@caracole.com Nationally recognized furniture brands with factory pricing FACTORY DIRECT FURNITURE OUTLETS Located On Highway 321 between Hickory and Blowing Rock 4916 Hickory Blvd l Granite Falls, NC 28630 l 828.313.0795 l outlet@bernhardt.com ©2014 Stark Carpet Corp. ©2015 Stark Carpet Corp. BRING YOUR ROOM TO LIFE PUBLIC WELCOME | TRADE EXCLUSIVES WWW.STARKCARPET.COM 11415 Granite Street Suite A Charlotte, NC 28273 RUG: NOT 105041B Elysian Collection 704.588.8842 #STARKTOUCH www.highcottonhomecompany.com Home Design High Country Modern Mid-Town Funk Greener Pastures Spaces We Love Page 14 Page 28 Page 34 Page 40 October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 13 14 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 High Country ModERN By Anne Marie Ashley Photography by Dustin Peck When the homeowners of this gorgeous mountain home decided to build, they knew from the start that they wanted a modern home that fit snugly into the North Carolina mountain landscape. H Having purchased the beautiful land right next door to their friends’ home in Boone, the couple couldn’t wait to wake up inspired by the expansive mountain views on a daily basis. Local architect Bradley Dowdy drew up a floor plan that happily combined their contemporary style with the rugged environment, and the couple called on Andrew Roby to construct their dreamy mountain escape and David Smith of Custom Interiors to make their reality beautiful and livable. “Our clients like a contemporary style, as the Mrs. is a fantastic artist,” explains Trent Haston, CEO of Andrew Roby. “They wanted this landscape to be the backdrop for their greatest masterpiece – a beautiful family compound.” October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 15 Having worked with the family on their primary Lake Norman residence for over ten years, Trent and the team at Andrew Roby had an intimate knowledge of their clients’ style. From purchase to completion over two years later, the team worked together to create an extraordinary retreat that satisfied the modern appeal of the homeowners and the cozy feel of a mountain home. “I’ve discovered a fondness for contemporary architecture that I didn’t use to have. Wood finishes, natural coverings and clean architectural lines with sleek moldings not only look great, 16 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 but force the highest quality of craftsmanship,” explains Trent, adding that his father introduced him to contemporary style and the beauty in details that can make a statement. “The designer’s choice of ‘matchbook stone’ on the grand fireplace wall and on the kitchen countertops really nailed both the contemporary style and the statement-making details.” Harkey Tile and Stone worked extensively with the designer to get the perfect look for the stonework on the home – something designer David Smith says is integral to the success of a pulled together “Working with a great team, including a contractor and especially an interior designer, who have access to a plethora of resources, is key to really pulling together a home and making it feel complete...” October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 17 18 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 19 20 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 21 “No matter what overall style you’re decorating in, it doesn’t have to be predictable.” 22 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 24 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 home. “Working with a great team, including a contractor and especially an interior designer, who have access to a plethora of resources, is key to really pulling together a home and making it feel complete,” he explains. Drawing inspiration from the homeowners’ love of modern art and natural earthy tones, David Smith got to work on the interiors. “The lady of the house is an amazing artist and nearly all the artwork came from her,” explains David. She also added pieces from friends and artists Rick Beck and Tom Spleith, as well as a sculpture in the kitchen by Phillip Baldwin and Mary Guggisberg. “When you start with beautiful art like that, it’s easier to build accessories from there.” Though many types of design inspire David including antiques mixed with modern European design, he felt equally at ease designing a modern home. “Modern country or mixing Mid-Century with anything antique is what really excites me, but in the end it just has to be great design. ” He adds that unexpected details are the secret to decorating. “No matter what overall style you’re decorating in, it doesn’t have to be predictable.” Owning his own retail store allowed David to pull many of the furnishings and custom pieces from his own collection in to round out the design of the couple’s home. Trent and his clients agree that the gathering room is their favorite space, noting that the kitchen, dining and sitting rooms are all open to one another, but sufficiently defined as their own space. The sliding glass doors that open up to the deck with panoramic views of the rolling mountains add drama and natural beauty, while the dining room table, custom made from a fallen 300-year old tree by local silversmith gaines Kiker, adds warm character. David, however, is drawn to the downstairs sitting room, which has become a great place for games and cocktails with warm colors and a goatskin rug that you “don’t want to step off of.” Either way, a marriage of modern aesthetic and warm livability make this home a success on all levels.v “The lady of the house is an amazing artist and nearly all the artwork came from her,” explains David. “When you start with beautiful art like that, it’s easier to build accessories from there.” To see all the photos from this home, visit www.urbanhomemagazine.com. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 25 See us September 18th & 19th on the Dilworth Home Tour at 425 E. Worthington, 820 Mt. Vernon and 716 Templeton Let Us Introduce Your Home To The World THE SANCTUARY 9128 Island Point Estate Acreage - Charlotte 2.975 M 5.95 M MORROCROFT 4222 Fox Brook Lane Charlotte 2.699 M THE PENINSULA 18103 Harbor Light Cornelius 1.599 M MYERS PARK 1812 Beverly Drive Charlotte 1.95 M ESTATE ACREAGE 2838 Abersham Loop Davidson LOCAL EXPERTISE, TAILORED SERVICE, CHRISTIE’S CREDIBILITY • Over 1000 offices worldwide • Online traffic originating from 220 countries • Maximize your home’s exposure to the world’s most affluent audience • Entrusted with fine possessions for over 200 years 704.499.3054 | IvesterJackson.com C H A R LOT T E | LAKE NORMAN | H I G H CO U N T RY 28 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Mid-Town Funk By Anne Marie Ashley Photography by Dustin Peck When her clients found Amy Lee of Artistic Interiors in Charlotte, they’d just purchased a lot close to uptown and were building a modern home that needed an designer’s touch. A Amy stepped in and helped them choose everything from the cabinetry to the paint colors to the lighting and beyond, creating a space that was simultaneously inspirational and relaxing. “I had to incorporate my clients’ unique, artistic personality into a design that also had a cozy and comfortable atmosphere,” Amy explains. Easy-peasy for this Charlotte by-way-of New York designer, also a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). The couple rightly assumed that her experience in the big apple would offer just the right amount of edge they were looking to bring to their October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 29 home. “I brought my style in a balance of color and pattern with the right mix of materials and textures,” offers Amy. “Most of my projects have a cohesive, sophisticated feel to them, regardless of whether it’s a Mid-Century modern or New Traditional style.” Influenced heavily by fashion, music, literature and art, Amy’s clients allowed her to run with her gut when it came to designing each space – which according to her is her decorating secret. “I can’t explain it, but I just 30 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 “I had to incorporate my clients’ unique, artistic personality into a design that also had a cozy and comfortable atmosphere...” know in my gut when I’ve found the right material or piece of furniture for my clients.” Pulling from any number of high-end, one-of-a-kind boutiques right down to national chains like Homegoods, Amy rounded out the home with a keen eye for the perfect accessories. “Don’t be afraid to hire a professional to help you!” she suggests, adding to make sure that the professional has a degree in interior design or is a member of a professional member of an association like ASID. “To me, good design is achieved if it meets the homeowner’s goals while also creating a space that invites others to come in and explore.”v To see all the photos from this home, visit www.urbanhomemagazine.com. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 31 Patios • Fireplaces & Firepits • Pizza Ovens • Retaining Walls • Natural Stone Tumbled Pavers • Masonry • Landscaping • Decks • Pergolas &Walls Charlotte Patio over 15 years experience 704-798-2216 Angie’s List Member c h a r l o t t e pat i o . n e t Free Estimates! I M A G I N E T H E P O S S I B I L I T I E S G R A N I T E & M A R B L E Only minutes from Uptown Charlotte WWW.CADENZAGRANITE.COM | 704 788 2744 Greener Pastures A By Anne Marie Ashley Photography by Dustin Peck When Tracy and Greg Frey decided to build their dream home they didn’t have to look far for the perfect location. Already residenTS in Mint Hill, they had seen the pastoral neighborhood and equestrian center at Cheval being developed nearby and decided to take a look. It didn’t take but a few minutes to decide that this would be the perfect setting to build their family’s ideal home. “Charlotte has a lot to offer when it comes to restaurants, night life and careers,” says Tracy Frey. “Here, we get the best of both worlds.” As they developed plans for the build, the broker for Cheval suggested that their new home would be a great fit for the upcoming 2015 HomeArama Tour in July. They assembled a dream team including Arcadia Custom Homes, Frank Snodgrass of Building Graphics Architecture and interior designer Traci Zeller and quickly got to work. The Frey’s were looking for a place that felt like an escape but also a great place to entertain with plenty of doors for open flow indoors and outdoors. Not to mention they are an active, outdoorsy family that is always on the go. When it came to floorplan, the Frey’s were keen to keep an open-concept home for easy entertaining, but were also adamant about using every inch of space in the home. “We didn’t want any wasted space throughout the home,” explains Frey. “Long hallways that add to square footage and cost, but don’t give you any functional space are exactly the things we tried to avoid.” Frey continues, adding that they really wanted to keep their current and future family needs in mind while designing the home, including building a room over the two-car garage that can be used as a play room now, but is wired for a home theatre as their kids grow into teens. Though Zeller was part of the process from breaking ground to completion, her vision truly took shape once the interiors were being installed. “I create crisp, classic interiors that make family-centered lives simpler and more stylish,” offers Zeller. Which is exactly why she was a great fit for this family of four. “I understood how they wanted their home to look,” says Zeller, “but also, how an active family would use it.” Drawing inspiration from the homeowners’ active lifestyles along with her own affinity for fashion, art and travel, Zeller was able to create a show stopper of a home that was also entirely livable. Zeller says she always starts her designs with fabric, because more than any other element, it adds a softness and warmth to a room. Selecting one multi-color pattern as a base helps her to create a blueprint for the rest of the home, varying the hues and intensity from room to room while maintaining a subtle cohesion, which was the perfect result in this classic home. When offering advice to homeowners, Zeller suggests that investment pieces like rugs and upholstered furniture should be classic in form – for the Frey’s home, she pulled most of her large pieces from the latest collection at Ethan Allen, which were integral to adding a timeless, but ultra-stylish look. “Ethan Allen specializes in creating icons of livable luxury, and that’s what this home is all about,” she says. To round out the overall design, Zeller pulled vintage pieces from other favorite vendors like Matters of Style Marketplace, and regional artists Kerry Steele (represented by the Anne Nielson Gallery) and Lesli DeVito (represented October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 35 36 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 by UGallery.com), from which many of the equestrian themed artwork were custom made. “To me, art is fundamental. It creates a home that is authentic and grounded,” she explains. She adds that she often uses vintage accessories in new construction homes to create a sense of history that they typically lack. A pool table in the recreation room added just the right amount of design-meets-function to make everyone happy. “How often can you say a pool table is ‘gorgeous’!” laughs Zeller, “but it really is.” The Frey’s couldn’t be happier with the final product of their dream home and it was a hit at Homearama. “There is no way I could choose just one room to love in our home, but I have to admit that the kitchen and scullery are a true joy,” says Frey. “It’s clean, functional, open and pleasing to the eye. Plus I can see out back to the beautiful open pastures.” To see all the photos from this home, visit www.urbanhomemagazine.com. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 37 ConstruCtion-to-Permanent mortgage FinanCing mortgage FinanCing ConstruCtion-to-Permanent BuiLDing Your neWneW Home BuiLDing Your Home is easier WitHWitH tHe tHe rigHt is easier rigHt FinanCing in Your PLans. FinanCing in Your PLans. Thinking about building a home? With a Charter Mortgage Loan, you can start putting yourstart putting Thinking about building a home?One WithConstruction-to-Permanent a Charter One Construction-to-Permanent Mortgage Loan, you can plans into action.plans This special program youprogram secure both andconstruction permanent financing for yourfinancing new home a new home into action. This lets special lets the youconstruction secure both the and permanent foratyour great fixed interest ratefixed in one process through just one of theIt’s ways to we’re be sure your home great interest rate in one closing. process It’s through closing. justwe’re one ofworking the ways working to befinancing sure your home finan Jumbo Loans & Jumbo Construction-to-Permanent Financing experience is as smooth and easy as possible. That’s what a good bank does. experience is as smooth and easy as possible. That’s what a good bank does. Get everything you need Including a competitive ra avaiLaBLe WitH oWner-oCCuPieD anD avaiLaBLe WitH oWner-oCCuPieD anD seConD Home / vaCation seConD HomeProPerties, / vaCationtHe ProPerties ConstruCtion-to-Permanent mortgage mortg ConstruCtion-to-Permanent Loan Lets You — Loan Lets You — • Lock in your permanent rate at application. • Lock inloan your permanent loan rate at application. • Obtain a fixed-rate mortgage or a 5/1mortgage or 7/1 or a 5/1 or 7/1 • Obtain a fixed-rate adjustable-rate mortgage for the permanent loan. adjustable-rate mortgage for the permanent loan. • Take up to 12 months interest-only financing • Takeofup to 12 months of interest-only financing during the construction period. during the construction period. • Renovate an existing home or, ifexisting youachoose, it you • Renovate anand hometear or, ifof choose, tear it At Charter One, we’re for homes. That’s why we offer competitive rates variety product featu down and rebuild. down and rebuild. construction-to-permanent financing. • Include lot financing or build home onor your own lot. on your own lot. • Include lotafinancing build a home • Home financing for up to $2,000,000 • Borrow up to $2 •million. Borrow up to $2 million. • Fixed or adjustable rate programs • One-time Close Construction-to-Permanent loans • Lock-in your permanent interest rate before construction begins • Up to 12 months of interest-only payments during construction It’s never too early to explore your options, so speak with a Charter One loan officer today. For more inFormation, PLease CaLL me toDaY! For more inFormation, PLease CaLL me toDaY! DAVID WOLDMAN, Branch Manager Regional Construction Lending Specialist DAVID WOLDMAN, Branch Manager _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ David M. Woldman 659150 659150 nmLs iD# ________________________________________ nmLs ________________________________________ NMLSiD# ID# 659150 Cell 704-651-8377 Cell 704-651-8377 _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ 704-651-8377 Office 704-602-5230 704-237-2023 Office 704-602-5230 _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ david.m.woldman@charteronebank.com david.m.woldman@charteronebank.com david.m.woldman@charteronebank.com _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Donna Schermerhorn NMLS ID# 546565 704-578-1294 donna.schermerhorn@charteronebank.c Mortgages are offered and originated by RBS Citizens, N.A. Charter by OneRBS is aCitizens, brand name RBS Citizens, (NMLS 433960). Mortgages are offered and originated N.A.of Charter One is aN.A. brand name ID# of RBS Citizens, N.A. (NMLS ID# 433960). All loans are subject to approval. Equal MGFL10101M0 C2P Lender. MGFL10101M0 C2P All loans are Housing subject toLender. approval. Equal Housing Mortgages are offered and originated by RBS Citizens, N.A. Charter One is a brand name of RBS Citizens, N.A. (NMLS ID# 433960). All loans11113001 are subjec Sto n e , F i r e a n d Wat e r C r eat i o n s Design and C o n st r u c t i o n ® Licensed contractors in NC and SC Imagination Detail Creativity 704.616 . 7 948 | St o n e M a n R o c k s . c o m Designer: Heather Smith with Emily Bourgeois and B. Whittington Construction SPACES WE LOVE The homeowners were looking for a kid-proof, but rich lair for an active family of four. “The dyed cypress walls, cast fireplace surround and leather upholstered bookcase trim created the perfect backdrop,” says Bourgeois who designed the thoughtful architectural details. This lovely, cozy living room proves undoubtedly that high style can live in perfect harmony with total comfort – which makes this to-die-for den a space we love. “Heather Smith of Circa Interiors filled this all-time favorite family room with just the right soft and slouchy furnishings.” - John Bourgeois of B. Whittington Construction Key Design Elements: Trim and Ceiling Paint in “Besom Broom”, Martha Stewart. Available through Martha Stewart online, www.marthastewart.com. Original Artwork by Carol Bodiford, www.carolbodiford.com. X Leg Stools, Lee Industries. Available through Circa Interiors & Antiques. www.circainteriors.com. Table Lamps, Visual Comfort. Available through Circa Interiors & Antiques, www.circainteriors.com. 40 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 White Pottery Collection and Black Shanxi Urn by Club Cu, www.clubcu.com. COCOCO A FFO RDA B LE LU XU RY VISIT OUR NC SHOWROOM IN CORNELIUS T H E C O M F O RTA B L E C O U C H C O M PA N Y Remarkably comfortable custom Sofas, Sectionals, Chairs and Ottomans made-to-order and shipped direct from our North Carolina workshop. Now available in an extraordinary selection of leather and fabric. Visit our Cornelius showroom. 19725 OAK STREET #5 | CORNELIUS, NC 28031 | 704-892-6680 | COCOCOHOME.COM | Best of houzz 2015 SERVICE HOME DE C OR UPHOL STERY ARTWORK WALLPAPER GIFTS LIG HTI N G 200 N. Sharon Amity | Charlotte, NC | 704.365.3331 | www.cotswoldmarketplace.com w w w. f r a n k s m i t h d e s i g n . c o m 704.332.4075 R e si den t i a l De sig n Inc . Frank Smith 704-379-1770 www.southendkitchens.com Jasmin Hejazi Photography 1500 South Blvd. | Suite 101-A | Charlotte, NC 28203 Trending Phoebe Howard Room To Room Lighting Tips Transcending the Ages Making A Solid Choice: Our Guide To Countertops Page 46 Page 52 Page 56 October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 45 decorating n Trends transformers R o o m t o R o o m L i g h t in g Ti p s By Anne Marie Ashley Kichler 46 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Ask any designer and they’ll likely tell you that the most underestimated design element in any home is lighting. It has the ability to make a small room look big, a dingy room look fresh and bright and even the squarest room look full of angles and interest. The right fixture can truly transform a space and is deserving of your first consideration when designing your interiors. So highlight your home and allow each room to truly shine. Living Room The living room is often the family retreat and can serve several purposes at once. Cozy, bright and relaxed, this multitasking space needs several different lighting sources for adaptability – most notably a pendant or chandelier overhead for overall light, preferably with a dimmer. Accent lighting like table and floor lamps brighten dark corners and offer light by which to read. To highlight built-ins housing books, accessories and family photos, consider adding under-cabinet lighting, or “library lights”, to create a soft glow for sentimental surfaces. Sconces over the fireplace highlight artwork or mantle decoration; reminding you to admire the home you’ve created. And of course, if you have lots of windows, take full advantage of natural light throughout the day, accenting with different light sources as the daylight changes. Dining Room The chandelier over your dining room table sets the tone for the entire room and does the lion’s share of the work. It could be modern and edgy – a great pick for a transitional home – or an antique chandelier for a dining room that is elegant, dramatic or more formal. For a dining room that’s light and bright, consider using a collage of formal and informal pieces that blend together. For example, a rustic lantern paired with a formal chandelier can make a space feel relaxed and more approachable. Candlelight can add a warm and inviting atmosphere when you want guests to linger and enjoy the meal, and a dimmer on the overhead can create instant ambience during any gathering, formal or informal. Of course added layers like lamps on the sideboard or in-cabinet lighting that spotlights fine china can punctuate the décor. Kitchen Lighting in this room should work hard, but be beautiful. Kitchen lighting is primarily task lighting, but even task lighting can elevate a space from strictly functional to totally stylish. Pendant lights often succeed on both fronts, since they offer a contemporary take on a traditional silhouette. In most kitchens, the island takes center stage and needs to have a killer focal point. Try some rustic pendants or an interesting chandelier to bring some charm to the kitchen. Popular oiled brass finishes offer a warm but more matte glow to the space. For cooking and prepping meals, under-cabinet lighting helps illuminate the work surface, and when not in use will highlight gorgeous countertops and set off ho-hum cabinets. Track lighting or recessed lights will offer another layer of task lighting. Bedroom This room is a sanctuary, meant for rest, relaxation and restoration. Lighting in the bedroom should be soft, unobtrusive and warm. Bedside table lamps can be multipurpose, adding personality to the space with patterned shades, interesting bases and pops of color, but also offering you a light by which to read or otherwise decompress from the day. A bedroom can benefit from more task lighting on a dresser, an accent light on a photo or work of art and overhead lights on a dimmer switch for general ambience. Soft recessed ceiling lights provide gentle illumination, while an overhead chandelier provides both dimmable atmosphere and a stylish accent. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 47 Hinkley Lighting Hinkley Lighting Bathroom Ultimately a task-oriented room, the bathroom may seem like the last room on your list to contemplate lighting at length. However, consider that this room is where you get ready for your day – you get dressed, fix your hair and take a moment to steel yourself for the day ahead. Guests find themselves a moment alone to “powder their nose” and pull themselves together here. Bathrooms deserve not only task lighting, but also lighting that’s complimentary. Flexible lighting in these rooms allow for bright white light in the mornings to awaken and refresh, soft spa-light to relax, or dim light for evenings and late-night visits. Bright light fixtures over mirrors or in the shower will help in getting ready, and natural light from windows can supplement overhead or task lighting. Powder rooms can be cozy with warm light from sconces that make everyone look good.v Sea Gull Lighting 48 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Serving Charlotte for over 35 years. Pineville Rug Gallery Charlotte’s largest selection of tribal, traditional and transitional oriental rugs. 312 Main Street Pineville, NC 28134 704-889-2454 Sales. Repair. Cleaning. www.pinevilleruggallery.com Silestone Authentic Life ® KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SURFACES Live authentically with Silestone Natural Quartz. With many color choices and textures, Silestone offers the ability to personalize your spaces and the way you live by offering a unique perfomance that is backed by a 25-year transferable warranty. SILESTONE AUTHENTIC LIFE YEARS ANNIVERSARY 25 YEAR WARRANTY Countertop PULSAR NEBULA CODE Sink INTEGRITY DUE COSENTINO CENTER CHARLOTTE 11435 GRANITE STREET - STE B CHARLOTTE, NC 28273 PH 704-504-1538 25-Year Warranty - Bacteriostatic Protection High Resistance to Scratching and Staining 2889 GRAY FOX ROAD MONROE, NC 28110 PH 704-238-1659 F SilestoneByCosentino T SilestoneUSA decorating n Trends Transcending the Ages Aubusson Origin: Villages of Aubusson and Felletin in central France. However, Aubusson-style rugs are currently produced in China, India and Pakistan Colors: Soft pastels (especially blue and dusky rose) and ivories Design: Floral motifs and pretty painterly patterns Kazak Origin: Traditionally woven in Afghanistan and Armenia Colors: 3-7 colors and a common palette of deep indigo, red and ivory Design: Geometric motifs of animals, flowers and tribal medallions Persian Medallion (also called Kashan) Image courtesy of Loloi Rugs, Nyla Collection Oriental rugs, also called Persian rugs or Tibetans, have been around since before Jesus’ time, with the earliest known record dating back to 400 B.C.. Excavated in 1949 from the grave of a Scythian nobleman in the Pazyryk Valley in Siberia, the carpet was determined to have been woven in the 5th century. So, how is it possible that a centuries-old design piece transcends time and lands happily in the most modern of spaces? Beauty, that’s how – because no matter what color, scale, origin or pattern, a quality Persian rug never goes out of style. But with so many patterns, weaves and colors, it can be difficult to distinguish one type of Oriental rug from another. Here’s a handy-dandy guide. 52 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Origin: Iran and Pakistan Colors: Diverse palette of 15-25 colors Design: Floral motifs with unique central medallion Baluchi Origin: The most concentrated Baluchi tribe resides in Pakistan Colors: 6-10 bright, unexpected colors Design: Hallmarked by playful patterns with geometric designs and tribal symbols Khotan Origin: The ancient city of Khotan in the southern region of Xinjiang (Chinese Turkistan) Colors: Can be rich and warm (deep reds and golds) or light and pastel (pale pinks and light grays) Design: Chinese and central Asian influences, stylized geometric and floral patterns Qashqai Origin: Iran Colors: Typically features 6-9 alternating colors (typically deep indigo blue, red or gold/yellow) Design: Bold, geometric designs interspersed with tribal symbols Chobi Bokhara (also known as Peshawar) Origin: Pakistan, Afghanistan and central Asia Colors: Solid, jewel-toned background color with 5-8 repeating colors Design: Highly stylized pattern that repeats over entire surface of rug Origin: Traditionally produced in Pakistan Colors: Antiqued appearance featuring earthy, golden tones and abrash (differing shades of one color) throughout Design: Symmetrical border pattern and floral motifs Kilim (Flatweave) Oushak Origin: Turkey Colors: 3-8 colors from turquoise and purple to the more traditional red, pink, ivory, green and blue Design: Predominantly geometric; most commonly medallions, multiple connected diamond-shaped medallions and all-over octagonal shapes. Oriental rugs can be woven into the design matrix of any room with a keen eye and the right mix of pieces. Here are just a few examples of how to incorporate one (or many!) in any part of your home. Origin: Uşak, Turkey Colors: Silky, shimmery wool in shades of cinnamon, terracotta, grey and soft pastels Design: Large-scale geometric floral patterns Dilute This might seem like sacrilege, but if you worry about the rug clashing with other patterns, diluting the rug with neutral surroundings is actually the best way to highlight it. Think white walls, hardwood floors and a soft color palette. All In The Family Celebrate the overall look of your oriental by selecting one color family in the rug and carrying it through your design. For example, if one of the background colors is a deep plum color, pick pillow patterns, throws or artwork that have plum colorways. Embrace Sometimes, the mis-match is what makes design special. Embrace the oddity in pairing a beautiful red Persian with a cobalt blue velvet sofa, bringing just the perfect sense of completion to a room. Combine Classics Oriental rugs themselves are classic designs so pair them with other mainstays like paisley, plaid and even hides to give an overall feeling of timeless compatibility. Whimsical Works Though oriental rugs can seem formal, adding whimsy to your design can tone down the stuffiness and dial up the comfort. Pair a club chair covered in cheeky fabric with a Persian underneath and you’ve created a space that’s unassuming and humble. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 53 Village at South Park Next to Crate and Barrel 4310 Sharon Road Charlotte 704-377-7955 www.ICLondon.com Facebook: ICLondonCharlotte The Bra Fitting Experts inspire. follow. like. Recreation of Samarkand (8 x 10.6) facebook.com/UrbanHomeMags MYERS PARK SHOPPING CENTER 1025-B Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28207 www.charlotteruggallery.com 704.332.1717 As always, Trades Considered, Cleaning, Restoration and Appraisal Services Available 54 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 @urbanhomemags houzz.com/pro/urbanhomemagazine pinterest.com/urbanhomemag instagram.com/urbanhomemagazine www.urbanhomemagazine.com Visit www.urbanhomemagazine.com for additional photos from all of our feature homes and our local design resource guide. Welcome to a world of beauty, elegance, and sophistication. We invite you to visit Bottega Stone’s newest boutique showroom displaying the finest natural stone slabs and tiles from around the world. Kitchen & BAth n Trends Making A Solid Choice: Our Guide To Countertops With what seems like a million choices in countertop materials it’s not only confusing to know what the best option is for your kitchen, but also overwhelming to stay on top of what’s new. We’d like to help you navigate the countertop wars and choose the best fit for your family. Granite Material: Most popular material, until recently, Granite is a natural stone that is cut and polished for surface use. Benefits: Durable; heat and scratch resistant and available in a wide array of patterns, colorways and styles. Timeless and easy to clean, though yearly maintenance advised. Varieties: Available in nearly endless colorways and patterns. Good For: Any kitchen, especially high-traffic kitchens. Laminate Material: Having come a long way in look and functionality, Laminate is made of particleboard with sheets of laminate or melamine resin glued together for a sturdy, solid surface. Benefits: Budget-friendly. Mimics granite, marble or even steel at a fraction of the cost and it’s moisture-proof. Designers like Jonathan Adler are designing patterned countertops for a one-of-a-kind look. Varieties: Patterns mimicking stone, marble, wood, fabric, leather and even rusted metal, in addition to richly hued solid colors and textured patterns. Good For: Mid-Century Modern or Retro kitchens. Kitchen islands and easy maintenance kitchens. 56 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Wood Materials: Wood or butcher-block countertops are made from straight cuts of wood that are glued together. Benefits: Warm, hardworking and budget-friendly. Though they do require sealant, unlike other cost effective options like laminate, wood is highly heat resistant. When sealed properly, the wood is completely sanitary, even for cutting meat. Customizable with stains and finishes. Varieties: Wood countertops can be cut from many types of wood, including Ash, Beech, Burch, Cherry, Hickory or Pine, among others. Good For: Traditional, modern or retro kitchens and ecofriendly homes. Easy maintenance kitchens that want a warmer feel. Marble Material: A natural stone that’s cut and honed or polished for surface use. Benefits: Lends a natural, organic feel to the kitchen, and also a hint of luxury. Can be as affordable as granite and even less expensive than quartz. A naturally cool surface, great for baking. Varieties: Most commonly shades of white, often with grey veins, though other varieties can be found. Choose honed for a softer, more comfortable matte look or polished for a highshine, luxurious look. Good For: Lightly used kitchens and Type A personalities who love a truly clean, bright kitchen; or messy cooks who are chill about the occasional etch or stain to which a naturally porous material is prone. Concrete Material: Concrete countertops are made from a generalpurpose mortar mix: one part cement to three parts sand. Benefits: Heat-resistant; very durable if sealed; shapes, edge details and texture can be fully customized (i.e. you can add recycled glass or stone pieces into the mixture); can be made to look seamless with a filler and can be stained any variety of colors. Varieties: Leaving it natural looks like smooth grey concrete, but it can be custom stained or colored, or even mixed with other materials to add texture. Good For: Modern, industrial or rustic style kitchens with moderate use. Quartz Material: Quartz is an engineered material made from bits of stone, resins and pigments that can be dyed a variety of hues. Benefits: Practically maintenance free; resistant to stains, scratches, heat, acid and nearly unbreakable. And thanks to the non-porous surface, Quartz surfaces don’t need to be sealed like natural stone surfaces. Varieties: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Good For: Larger families and busy cooks. Stainless Steel Soapstone Material: Stainless steel is made of a metal alloy with chromium content of around 10 percent. Benefits: Industrial strength; durable; easy to clean and antibacterial. It can be cut to any size and installed without seams. It’s impervious to heat, rust, corrosion and stains. Coordinates with any finishes. Varieties: Available in satin, antique matte or specialty finishes. Good For: Modern or industrial style kitchens; families concerned with hygienic cooking; high-traffic kitchens and eco-friendly kitchens (it’s 100 percent recyclable). Lava Stone Material: Non-porous, quarried natural stone. Composed mostly of mineral talc with higher amounts of quartz for countertop use. Benefits: Beautiful color; smooth matte feel; resistant to bacteria and can be sanded or oiled to restore. Doesn’t require yearly sealing. Varieties: Available in a range of greys from light to dark, all with subtle veining. Good For: Any kitchen. Quartzite Material: A new countertop material, volcanic lava stone is extracted by hand from open-air quarries (usually in Auvergne, France), then cut into slabs, glazed with enamel and fired in a kiln at 1,300 degrees. During cooling a smooth crackled finish develops. Benefits: Non-porous; highly resistant to stains, scratches, shock and temperature changes; low maintenance; durable; each slab is completely unique and available in a wide variety of colors; can be installed without seams. Varieties: Available in just about any color imaginable, including neutrals. Can be shiny or matte with an ultra smooth, crackled finish. Good For: Large budget kitchens; statement kitchens and busy cooks; eco-friendly kitchens (nearly indestructible, so waste is minimal). Material: Quartzite is a natural stone that is cut and polished for surface use. Benefits: Since it’s harder than Granite, Quartzite does not scratch or etch but as a natural stone, it still needs sealing to help resist staining. It’s also heat-resistant and an easy-care stone, needing just a wipe from a damp cloth and mild soap to clean. Veining varies from slab to slab, so no two are exactly alike. Varieties: Most often white or grey with brown and black veins, but you can occasionally find colored quartzite if the original rock had impurities that impacted color - for example, iron oxide can create pink or red hues, where other minerals can add yellow, green or even blue. Good For: A long-term, high-quality kitchen that gets high use but needs easy maintenance. Though natural stone can be quite costly, the quality is unmatched. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 57 Granite shopping can be a daunting process. Retail kitchen and bath show- Countertop Concierge Make your free appointment with one of our design consultants Call 704-896-8677 x 10 rooms don’t have large granite samples that fully convey the color variations of natural stone. At a slab yard you will find mismarked materials and a staff that can only provide you with a rough estimate for an installed product. Our countertop concierge service includes a guided visit to a conveniently located stone yard and our pricing will be accurate and easy to understand. Our service will make the process painless! Over 25 years experience www.charlottecounters.com 58 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 ADVANTA US Discover beautiful, sustainable design for your floors with infinitely inspiring tile solutions from Crossville. Our exclusive Porcelain Stone collections lend style and substance to distinctive spaces everywhere. Proud partner of 1 Bevard Condos. Meet the Shades Porcelain Stone Collection, by Crossville. Distinctly American. Advantageously Crossville. See the latest collections from Crossville at our showrooms located at: Crossville Tile & Stone Charlotte 927 Pressley Rd Charlotte, NC 28217 704 927-8453 Asheville - Airport Design Center 15 Design Avenue, Suite 206 Fletcher, NC 28732 828 209-0270 crossvilletileandstone.com Hubert Whitlock Builders Uniquely Qualified Remodeling Custom Homebuilding Historic Renovation High-End Upfits Landscape & Outdoor Living Room To Bloom Hubert Whitlock Builders has been a proud sponsor of the Mint Museum Auxiliary and their Room to Bloom Celebration since 2002. The 2015 / 2016 upcoming ticketed events are: The Fall Enrichment Forum. An Evening with Jonathan Adler Wednesday, October 14, 2015 Uptown Funk: Moschino & Music Saturday, February 27, 2016 The Symposium with Nathan Turner Wednesday, April 20, 2016. More information can be found at www.mintmuseumauxiliary.org 8101 Tower Point Drive, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28227 • 704-364-9577 (p) • www.whitlockbuilders.com resources Little House, Big Features Designing in a Digital Age Feel-Good Design Season’s Change Page 62 Page 70 Page 78 Page 88 October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 61 remodeling Little House, Big Features By Dana W. Todd On a drive through historic Myers Park, you will not be surprised to see smaller “back houses” or detached garages behind many of the early 20th century homes. These small structures offer extra living space for today’s families. Architect Ann Stanley (AVS Architecture), who lives in the neighborhood, realized her family needed more space than existed in her 1917 bungalow. She decided to design a carriage house that would fit well into the neighborhood and still provide the multi-functional uses requested by each of her family members. As an architect who has most recently been working from her home’s guest room, the first item on her design list was carving a space out of the 560-square-foot carriage house for a home office. At one end of the studio are windows surrounded by a built-in desk, flat files, and 62 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 bookcases that provide the space Stanley needs to work. This built-in design frees the remainder of the room’s floor space to hold the furniture and electronics that serve multiple purposes of teen hangout, guest room, man cave, and storage. Stanley coordinated all the functional areas into one open room, including a wet bar, with only a bathroom segregated by walls and a door. “I wanted a modern, yet farmhouse-like feel,” says Stanley, who previously designed similar structures for upscale clients of a California architectural firm before she and her family moved to Charlotte 11 years ago. “Clean lines, simple materials and a vaulted ceiling in the main space were important.” Stanley says there were no construction challenges, a fact she credits to her contractor, Advanced Renovations. “It was a seamless experience working with Duane Johns of Advanced Renovations,” she says. “I appreciated his intelligence and problem-solving skills throughout construction. It was great to not losing control of the process once I had finished the design drawings.” “Advanced Renovations exhibits accountability, organization and reliability from beginning to end,” she continues. “They kept the area clean while they worked, and I always knew what was coming next.” For her part, Stanley made the design choices, including the neutral color palette, porcelain floor tiles, which impart the look of limestone and dark gray Caesarstone countertops that provide a neutral counterpoint to off-white walls, beige sofas and rattan chairs. On the exterior, a grayish-green shiplap siding continues the neutrality and coordinates with the existing house. Unhesitatingly, Stanley agrees that if she had to do it all over again, she’d still choose Advanced Renovations. “When we expanded the main house in 2004, I chose the first available contractor, against my better judgment as a design professional,” Stanley says. “But the comfort of having a comprehensive schedule and cost for a project before construction cannot be underestimated. Advanced Renovations came highly recommended from many sources because of their accountability and professionalism.”v Advanced Renovations is known for its collaborative work with homeowners. Call the company at 704-799-3999 or visit www.advancedrenovations.com to discuss your specific remodeling project. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 63 POOL BY DESIGN Making parents, kids and dogs happy since 1976 217 Fairwood Avenue Charlotte, NC 28203 Call about our current swimming pool specials! (704) 3DESIGN 333-7446 poolbydesign.com Contributing Editor | Kitchen Design Charlotte: Catherine Whitney Charlotte has always offered a quality of life that has attracted families from all over the country and the world. Then and Now The cranes are back and I don’t mean the majestic birds flying over the marshlands at the beach. I mean the construction cranes that are visible from center city to South Park. With real estate prices on the rise, we are in the upswing of another building boom. In my neighborhood, residential renovation signs are everywhere. Can you feel the market heating up? Since I live in an 80-year-old home, the housing market pricing from the early 20th century vs. current real estate pricing always intrigues me. Here are some comparisons that you may find interesting, too. You know the saying, “the more things change, the more they stay the same”? This can certainly be said for the amenities that we have always looked for in our homes. We want it to be comfortable, beautiful, functional and the best quality that we can afford. Charlotte has always offered a quality of life that has attracted families from all over the country and the world. The way I see it, a home is where the family grows together. Whether inside or outside, we want quality, good design and a professional to guide us and that’s how it’s always been.v Look how far we’ve come in 100 years! There is a feature called “6th Sense” for dishwashers and it determines when electricity consumption will be the least expensive, helping you save money in the long run. Simply pressing the Smart Grid button will instruct the dishwasher to run whenever grid consumption is cheapest. s Fun Facts Bosch’s Zeolite technology is perhaps the most amazing, if not practical, new concept in dishwashers. It uses zeolite crystals to heat the interior of the dishwasher during the dry cycle! 66 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 This is simple, but one of my favorites: some dishwasher models have a small laser beam that shines onto the floor beneath the dishwasher. When it’s running it’s red and when the cycle is complete, it shines green! Some refrigerator models are now equipped with built-in Wi-Fi speakers that allow you to stream your favorite music, the morning news and more. Whirlpool’s kitchen-of-the-future prototype imagines a touch screen cook top that allows your soup recipe to sit safely and conveniently next to your boiling pot. The surface uses induction to heat pots, keeping the cook top cool to the touch. The cook top can be social too, with pinterest, facebook and other recipe-providing social media sites available at the swipe of a finger. It’s still 5 years out, but I’m looking forward to the future of cooking kitchens! GE’s Brillion App now allows users to monitor their ovens remotely, without access to Wi-fi. Apps for iOS and Android are currently available for a handful of GE Profile wall-oven models only. Then (early 20 th century) A 1936 2-story home in southeast Charlotte was $8,000 Now Current market estimate approximately over $900,000 Then A 1913 early model refrigerator was $149.75 Conversly, an air conditioner in 1931 cost between $10,000 and $50,000; equivalent to $120,000 to $600,000 in today’s market, which means only the extremely wealthy could afford these systems. Now A French door style refrigerator in stainless steel is anywhere between $2,500 to over $10,000 Then A 1930s Gas Range was $109.75 Now Current models can start at $500 Then An 1886 early model dishwasher (ironically, invented by a woman named Josaphine Cochrane) sold for $150 Now Current models can start around $300 Catherine Whitney is the showroom manager and designer at South End Kitchens. She has 30 years experience in the kitchen and bath industry and works diligently with clients every step of the way. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 704-379-1770 or email Catherine at catherine@southendkitchens.com. The design studio is located in the historic Meeting Hall building at 1500 South Blvd, Suite 101-A. You can also visit South End Kitchens at www.southendkitchens.com October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 67 Imagine your home, totally organized! Custom Closets Garage Cabinets Home Offices Pantries, Laundries and Hobby Rooms 20% Off plus Free 2012 © All Rights Reserved. Closets by Design, Inc. Installation 20% off any order of $1000 or more. 10% off any order of $700 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $500 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate 800-293-3744 www.closetsbydesign.com Licensed and Insured UHM Follow us HAYES SELLING CHARLOTTE FOR OVER 30 YEARS! The Bell Team 704.654.0979 Maren BrissonKuester Team 704.287.7072 Leigh Cottingham Corso 704.650.0063 Linda Davis 704.904.6777 Sheryl Hallow 704.907.1144 Linda Henley 704.621.8694 Chip Jetton 704.608.1661 The Law Team 704.534.9373 Heather Montgomery 704.288.6890 John Ogburn 704.953.7407 Nicole Papciak 704.962.9980 Peggy Peterson 704.904.6279 Catherine Cauthen Turner 704.578.5551 The Tuck Team 704.904.4011 Meg Wilkinson / Sam Cochran Team 704.906.5747 w w w. c c h r e a l t o r s . c o m decorating Designing in a Digital Age By Laura Jackson 70 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 When Arthur Stark first began his business in 1938, it’s unlikely he could have even imagined the way business would evolve in a digital age. As the first importer of patterned, luxury handmade carpets into America, the Starks understood the value of finding the right connections early on. They maintained strong relationships with manufacturers who would create the impeccable carpets and rugs their customers still expect today. That part has remained the same, but business in a digital age is now a little different. It’s been estimated that the growing home goods industry market is over 7 billion dollars a year. The vast array of consumer choices is more daunting than ever and companies competing in this arena must constantly evolve with the times. Though flipping through design books and an interior designer’s photos of past projects used to be the way to gather decorating ideas and begin a project, that system has long since changed. Today’s tech savvy, digital consumers and the interior designers who work with them, rely on technology to help organize and streamline the process. From outfitting the White House in the 1960s, to creating the first custom-made floor coverings in the 1970s and so much more, Stark Carpet earned a reputation of staying ahead of the curve for many years. This innovation extended not just to their high-end product lines, but also to their working relationships with the interior designers so vital to their success. Continuing this tradition and ensuring a new emphasis on collaboration among interior designers, their clients, and account managers, Stark recently rolled out a reimagined website, StarkCarpet.com. With an innovative tool designed for the trade called Stark Boards, designers and clients can work from interactive, customizable mood boards. Not only can images of Stark products be easily collected, shared, viewed, compared and commented on, but any digital image from any source can be uploaded, and all the images can be resized, rearranged and layered. The Boards have been described as Pinterest-like in their ability to save images, but more engaging in their function, as well as an excellent presentation and communication tool. “These innovations are the result of several years of listening to what our clients need,” explains Chad Stark, representing the third generation of the company’s ownership. “Increasingly, they want to be able to collaborate with us, and with their own clients.” They have also added responsive web design that makes the site easily viewable on mobile devices, which will be a huge benefit for designers who are always on the go. Over the next few months, their plans include uploading the tens of thousands of products available through their showrooms as well as supporting room-setting images. “We’re thrilled with the new website, and we know it will only continue to get better,” says Charlotte’s Stark Home showroom manager, Donna Barklage. “While the experience of being able to feel a cashmere and silk piled Nepalese carpet, or a fluffy Moroccan rug underfoot has yet to be digitally replicated, with technology advancing daily, who knows? Maybe in a few years the touch screen on your iPad will turn into a ‘touch and feel’ screen...”v To add a touch of organic luxury to your home, contact the Stark Carpet showroom at 704-588-8842, or email Donna at dbarklage@starkcarpet.com. To view their selection online, visit www.starkcarpet.com. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 71 Factory Direct www.theblindandshutterpros.com 704-750-0176 Free In-Home Design Consultation & Estimate Custom Closet Systems Walk In Closets • Reach In Closets Pantries • Laundry • Home Office Plantation Shutters • Cellular Shades • 2 inch Blinds Bamboo Shades • Solar Shades • Woven Woods 20% OFF Shutters 60 sq.ft. or more • Average window is 10 sq.ft. 20% OFF Closets Plus FREE Installation ª Project must be $1000 or more. www.theblindandshutterpros.com 704-392-8888 www.thefurnitureconnector.com Lee Hall Captiva & Rome Wall Series On view through October 31, 2015 I try to find constraints in nature, not freedom, and work toward intensification, clarification, perhaps simplification of reality, which, of course, is abstract. Lee Hall CAPTIVA-AFTERNOON EDGES, 2015, Mixed Media Collage on Canvasboard, 8 x 10 inches Advising collectors, corporations and museums on fine art acquisitions for over 32 years 625 South Sharon Amity Road Charlotte, NC 28211 704.365.3000 gallery@jeraldmelberg.com www.jeraldmelberg.com October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 73 Contributing Editor | Building a Better Home A Touch of Glass trent haston Adding some wow factor to your windows is worth a higher price for what it does to a home’s curb appeal. Some people associate glass in a home with a contemporary style of architecture because of its sleek and clean look. But, I think the use of glass in various areas of the home can add style and flare to any architecture. There are several areas of the home where I think glass can really enhance a space, giving visual appeal, a focal point, and/or a wow factor. Windows Yes, of course windows are made of glass, but if you look beyond the standard, windows come in many different styles, qualities and price points. My dad used to always say that every curve (speaking in building terms) is a thousand dollars. He meant that when you add a curve to something, whether it is a roofline, wall, window, etc., it adds a lot of extra cost. Well, that was twenty years ago and I think adding some wow factor to your windows is worth a higher price for what it does to a home’s curb appeal. Here are some things to consider when choosing windows: •Layout and spacing on home’s exterior and how the interior will thus be affected by the natural light Bathrooms Bathrooms are another great place to use glass unexpectedly. I love frosted glass panels in entry and closet doors. This can turn a mundane door into a fresh focal point while still providing privacy or to disguise towels and toiletries. Also, glass panels can bring light in from other areas of the house. Frosted panels are also good for bathroom windows, because they add light without sacrificing privacy. Shower doors and surrounds are another great place to get creative with glass. I love frameless shower doors and surrounds, and I like the details that you can add with hardware like handles, hinges, and even barn door hardware on cool sliding shower doors. The thicker the glass, the greener the inside, which adds a nice seawater tone. Is it feeling like a spa yet?v Trent Haston is CEO of Andrew Roby and has spent many years in project management, focusing on style and craftsmanship for custom home projects. For more information call 704-334-5477 or visit www.andrewroby.com. •Size of windows, with grander not always being better •Thickness and style of mutton bars, moldings and glass dividers •Size of panes within window and pane patterns •The use of stained or decorative glass to accent windows, door transoms, sidelights, and in the doors themselves, especially front entrance doors Kitchens There are many opportunities to incorporate glass in a kitchen. The most obvious is in decorative cabinet doors, with the use of stained glass, styled glass and lighting inside the cabinets for displays and accents. Another area is in backsplashes. Glass tile backsplashes have been very popular lately, but a newer look I love is a mirrored backsplash. I have seen these in some of our recent remodels and I think they are really nice in accent areas or in tight kitchens to enhance the feel and size of the small quarters. A less obvious use of glass in the kitchen is in countertops. I wouldn’t recommend these in high-use or high-traffic areas, due to the inevitable smudges, fingerprints, and scratches; but a thick glass accent countertop with a cool edge can be quite a focal point in a kitchen. 74 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Photos Courtesy of David Ramsey Photography. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 75 Artistic Interior Design Inc. Amy N. Lee, ASID, NCIDQ www.artistic-interiorsinc.com 704-728-4337 Get Ready for the Holidays... North Lake 7325 Smith Corners Blvd., Charlotte 704-909-2420 Family owned and operated South 4332 Monroe Rd., Charlotte 704-332-4139 www.thehearthandpatio.com 76 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 We staff our own installers! I t ’s You r dream I t ’s You r home CR ottage or Castle.. emodel or new construction B u i l d o n Y o u r L ot o r O u r s D e s i g n /B u i l d C u s to m H o m e s G ua r a n t e e d B u d g e t & S ch e d u l e C u s to m A d d i t i o n s & R e m o d e l i n g W h o l e H o u s e R e n ovat i o n s C u s to m P o o l s & P o o l H o u s e s Financing Options O u t d o o r L i v i n g & E n t e rta i n m e n t A r e a s 2-10 H o m e B u y e r ’ s W a r r a n t y H o m e I m p rov e m e n t W a r r a n t y f ro m 2-10 HBW f o r r e m o d e l s a n d a d d i t i o n s The 2010 NC STARS Awards Best new custom home over $1 million 5000-10000 SF Visit our website to see a virtual tour and video on our company and homes. The 2009 Lake Norman Home Builders “Best in Show” for new custom home over $2 million The 2012 NC STARS Awards Best of Lake Winner PO Box 77413 • Charlotte, NC 28271 • 704-843-8447 • www.zarcustomhomes.com • info@zarcustomhomes.com Decorating Feel-Good Design By Page Leggett Rodney Hines, “The Furniture Connector,” is less about trends and more about comfort. Good design is design that makes you feel good. “I am over chevron,” Rodney Hines tells me emphatically, if somewhat reluctantly. We’re sitting at the conference table in his sleek, dreamy High Cotton Home store. I’ve asked him about decorating trends and he’s hesitant to answer. When he does, it’s in typical Hines fashion: charming, funny and veering off on a few tangents. But the gist is that Hines doesn’t follow trends. “You know what my home is?” he asks, answering a question with a question. “It’s filled with framed pictures and mementos and old fraternity paddles, and it’s a place where my friends, family and our dog (Scrappy) are comfortable.” Decorating your home, Hines believes, is about creating a sanctuary. It’s not about ensuring you’ve got animal print … or shabby chic … or whatever the latest look is. That’s not to say Hines doesn’t scour the furniture markets (and flea markets) for what’s hot. He does. He offers customers the top designers – like Vanguard, Michael Weiss and Thom Filicia – By Brandy Snow but he encourages people to buy what they like. Not Photography Jim Schmid necessarily by what a friend likes. Hines is too young to be an elder statesman of design and décor, but he’s sold furniture long enough to have earned the mantle. This year, he celebrates his 15th anniversary in the business. His eclectic, quirky Furniture Connector has been a South End mainstay for more than a decade. 78 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Four years ago, Hines opened High Cotton Home – with a completely different vibe from its sister store. (“Deconstructed luxury” is how Hines describes it.) South End Trading Co. has been part of the mix, too, but Hines will close that store this fall to concentrate all his efforts on what he calls the “fun and casual” Furniture Connector and the “refined but not stuffy” High Cotton Home. But don’t let the name “High Cotton” fool you. Hines is out to prove that “everyone can live in high cotton.” He said, “We offer a huge range in prices. You can get a sofa for $1,999 and a chair for $399.” But prices can go higher in a store that caters to everyone from a firsttime apartment dweller to those furnishing their dream home – or a dream vacation home. Hines eventually comes back to talking design. “Everything can’t take center stage,” he pronounces. “You should have a couple of statement pieces … but you need a supporting cast, too – some pieces that are the equivalent of the strong, silent type.” The talented design staff at Hines’ South End stores is always ready to consult. “They’ll be happy to sell you a sofa, if that’s all you need,” Hines said. “But they can also help you design a room or your entire house.” Hines will add a concierge service for both his stores later this year. The concierge will help coordinate the order and be “on call” to answer questions. Although Hines is no slave to trends, he will happily say that midcentury modern (which he calls “beautiful bohemian modern”) is the hottest look now, and that pleases him. But if you like chevron, don’t let the fact that Hines is “over it” discourage you. “Buy what makes you happy” is his mantra.v Visit The Furniture Connector at 2905 Griffith St. or online at www.thefurnitureconnector.com. High Cotton Home is at 2137 South Blvd. Visit www.highcottonhomecompany.com to learn more. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 79 Two great names have joined forces under one family. We Bring Your Dreams to Life. Kitchen & Bath Collection HUNTERSVILLE 16235 Northcross Dr Huntersville, NC 28078 704.892.6466 www.hugheshuntersville.com Kitchen and Bath Showroom Southpark 621 South Sharon Amity Rd. Charlotte, NC 28211 704.366.9099 www.themajesticbath.com Two convenient Kohler/ Kallista Showrooms Home sweet, worry-free home. Your home should be a place of calm and comfort, not a source of headaches and hassles. That’s why Advanced Renovations offers our unique, concierge-style home maintenance service. From simple repairs and upgrades to routine maintenance, our dedicated Home Repair Team will get the job done with the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that we’ve built our reputation on for nearly 20 years. Repairs • Upgrades & Improvements • Maintenance & Upkeep Call us today: 704-332-3733 www.advancedrenovations.com/home-repair 80 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 furniture market samples It’s the most fun you’ll ever have furniture shopping! consignment accessories We Specialize in More Than Just Furniture. 30,000 square foot showroom located at: 11416 “D” Independence Blvd. | Charlotte, NC 28105 | 704-847-2620 | www.consignment1st.com essentials new products Luminous 1. 1 Jewel Box Vanity Light, George Kovacs by Minka. Available at Efird’s Interiors. www.efirds.net. 2 3 2. Athena Sconce, Arteriors Home. Available through Isabella. www.isabellastyle.com. 3. Latitude Aged Brass Sconce, Robert Abbey. Available at Modern Lighting Design. www.modernlightingdesign.com. 4. Urban Renewal Vanity Light, Feiss. Available at Ferguson Kitchen and Bath, www.ferguson.com. 5. Wentworth Aged Brass Vanity Light, Hudson Valley. Available at Lee Lighting. www.leelighting.com. 6. Bari Wall Sconce, Hudson Valley. Available Southern Lights. facebook.com/Southern-Lights-Inc 7. Lorita Wall Sconce, Arteriors Home. Available through Lucy and Company. www.lucyandcompany.com. 8. Lanza Vanity Light, Hinkley. Available at Progressive Lighting. www.progressivelighting.com. 4 5 6 7 8 82 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 View our portfolio or find inspiration at SheaCustom.com 704.602.3333 We offer: Custom homes on your homesite Homesite selection assistance Help with obtaining financing Designing & drawing your dream home 2-10 Home Buyer’s Warranty Use your plan or start with one of ours Inventory Homes Available! Contact us for an Estimate or Help in Getting Started Custom Homes from $200K to over $2 million. Contributing Editor | Jerald Melberg The Art of Discernment JERALD MELBERG It is my goal to feed the soul by providing access to the highest quality art. I am delighted with the opportunity to collaborate with Urban Home Magazine on editorials about understanding and collecting works of art. I hope that in the following months we can learn together. I would like to explore many things with you, including some questions such as: What are art galleries and what purpose or function do they serve in our community? How do you distinguish “good” art from “bad” art? Can you learn the difference between quality and simply visual Muzak? I have answered these and many other queries from curious people throughout my career and I want to share it with the readers of Urban Home. It has always been my desire to educate through teaching discernment; I believe one must learn the difference between ordinary and extraordinary works of art. I have discovered that there is no better way to do so than to look – visit museums, visit galleries and develop your personal preferences and tastes. Recognizing art that transcends the ordinary will Brian Rutenberg Reeds Rise, 2015. Oil on linen, 48 x 82 inches 84 URBAN HOME CHARLOTTE OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 help you build a collection that carries the potential of continued appreciation through many years and many viewers. We all need to be fed in many ways every day, and it is my goal to feed the soul by providing access to the highest quality art. For over 30 years, I have been privileged to do that right here in Charlotte. Brian Rutenberg Camellia Paintings November 7, 2015 - January 2, 2016 Jerald Melberg is the President and Director of Jerald Melberg Gallery, which he founded in 1983. Representing living artists and important estates, the gallery is located at 625 South Sharon Amity Road. Visit www.jeraldmelberg.com to find out more, or call 704-365-3000. The gallery is open Monday -Saturday 10 a.m - 6 p.m. Affordable Luxury For Your Windows Plantation Shutters · Blinds · Shades · Exterior Shutters FREE In-Home Consultation • FREE Measure Locally Owned & Operated • National Buying Power With Hometown Service Why Wait? We Offer 0%* Financing American Made Plantation Shutters Delivered & Installed In 21 Days *With approved credit 704-334-7080 800-736-2303 www.signatureshutters.com re ENVISION Let us be the remodel solution to yourspace Award-Winning Design Staff porcelain Tile Natural Stone INSTALLATION Custom Granite Fabrication CAESARSTONETM Quartz Countertop 11200 Carolina Place Parkway | Pineville, NC 28134 | 704.541.8453 | www.tilecollection.com 86 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Custom Homes and Remodeling SERVIN G C H AR L OTTE F OR OVER 1 5 YEARS Now Under Construction In Myers Park Featuring These Strategic Local Business Partners: & Morrison Millwork Ben Collins 704-454-7200 Charlotte Roofing Specialists Dave Sammons 704-975-1215 Custom Concrete Pools B & B Pools Bryant Bedingfield 704-444-2818 Dickens Mitchener Isabel Roberts 704-607-5560 www.hhc-construction.com | 704-777-1343 outdoors Season’s Change By Brandy Woods Snow Oranges, red, yellows and purples – many see the bold hues of autumn as nature’s last stand of brilliance before the coming chill of winter. We revel in the showiness of autumn’s blaze of glory but often neglect the understated, subtle beauty of the winter season. As the colder temperatures approach, the first inclination of many homeowners is to pull up annuals, prune, mulch and hunker down until the first signs of spring. However, living in a moderate Carolina climate, there is no need to consider winter as a dormant period for your garden. The winter garden presents a prime opportunity for evergreen anchors in traditional landscapes to step out of the shadows and into the foreground. Multiple varieties of berries create dramatic splashes of color against the gray days of winter and extraordinary barks and stems of deciduous plants are revealed by falling leaves, adding texture and interest. There are also a significant number of plants that produce winter blooms in milder climates as well as shrubbery options whose foliage change colors with the seasons. All of these add definition to your garden and create the quiet elegance of a winter landscape. Mark Morgan and Evan Tanger of Morgan Landscape Group advise homeowners to plan now to ensure a lush wintertime garden. “Winter 88 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 does not have to equate to a dull, lifeless landscape. There are numerous hardy plants, shrubs, grasses and flowers that thrive in cooler temperatures and add textures, colors, and fragrances dramatically different from other seasonal offerings. By planting in fall, homeowners can ensure the birth of winter will not mean the death of their landscape appeal.” Ready to winterize your landscape? Contact Morgan Landscape Group at 704-588-2292 or go online to www.morganlandscapegroup.com. 1 2 3 1 Winterberry Holly Abundant clusters of long lasting, bright red fruits and lustrous dark green leaves. The leaves fall off the shrub in autumn, making the berry display all the more showy in the winter landscape. 2 4 American Beautyberry Lavender, pink and white flowers in summer resulting in purple fruits that persist well into the winter; Attracts birds and other wildlife. 5 3 October Glory Red Maple Has a glossy deep green leaf, one of the hardiest of the red maples. It is a fantastic fastgrowing shade tree that gives way to beautiful late fall color. 4 Blackgum Offers light, reddish-brown, deeply furrowed and scaly bark; Brilliant deep red fall leaf color; Offers winter buds that are obtuse and dark red. 5 6 7 6 7 Variegated Winter Daphne A dwarf rounded evergreen shrub with very fragrant flowers that blossom from mid-winter to early spring. Can be temperamental! Lenten Rose Herbaceous evergreen perennial that blooms later winter into early spring; Flower petals hang downward, like those of a buttercup; Colors range from white to pink. Burning Bush A deciduous shrub with dark green leaves that turn bright red in the fall. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 89 Hamilton-Stuart NOW OPEN: The Stalls A new 7 vendor antiques and home furnishings shop located directly behind our Park Road location. Located in Specialty Shops SouthPark (704) 716-8226 90 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 3916 Park Road | Tues-Sat 10am-5pm 980-237-0009 SUNMAR CONSTRUCTION Capturing The Design & Build swimming pools Pool Houses / Cabanas www.houzz.com/pro/sunmarconstruction beauty of Natural Elements Pool Decks Pool renovations Hardscapes Fireplaces Outdoor Grills Covered patios 704-930-1250 www.SUNMArconstruction.com Contributing Editor | Room Service Peaceful Slumber Beth KEIM Having completed the re-design of the first floor, we wanted to continue the colors and style upstairs in the master bedroom for a more cohesive look. Everyone deserves a peaceful slumber. A master bedroom should be just that, peaceful; an escape from the kids, work, computers, emails and ringing cell phones. My client Tracy Shanks was looking for a retreat. Having completed the redesign of her first floor, we wanted to continue the colors and style upstairs in her master bedroom for a more cohesive look. Removing a large armoire seems to be the first thing both my clients and I want to do. With a big, bulky piece, gone storage needs to be replaced and I am a big fan of the non-bedroom “set.” Having pieces that complement each other but don’t necessarily match. In this space, both dressers and the side tables are all from different vendors, yet each relate to the space and to each other. We weaved a simple dose of navy from downstairs into the bench and bolster pillow. The attached sitting room got a bigger shot of the color on the walls, creating a cozy reading room. This space now has a clean, soft grey palette on the walls and overlay rug as well as the channel back upholstered bed. The heavy wood is gone. 92 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 If your space is similar, with a large curved window, take the curtain panels over the arch like we did here, adding a traverse rod for easy maneuvering. The biggest designer no-no, poles under an arch, will instantly shorten a room. Here are a few other tips for the perfect master bedroom: • • • • • • • • Soft and similar colors on walls and ceiling Try painting the molding the same color as the walls Invest in good sheets. Don’t overdo the pillows – husbands hate that! Mismatched furniture in like-colors Carry your window treatments to the ceiling for height and luxury Layer an area rug over the carpet Splurge on bedside flowers Beth Keim is the owner of Lucy and Company, a full-service interior design firm located at 1009 East Boulevard. For more information visit www.lucyandcompany.com or call 704-342-6655. Photos by Mekenzie Loli Everyone deserves a peaceful slumber. A master bedroom should be just that, peaceful; an escape from the kids, work, computers, emails and ringing cell phones. October / November 2015 Urban Home Charlotte 93 700 $ Receive up to a 1000 * $ MasterCard® Prepaid Card By Mail with Purchase of Select Jenn-Air Brand Appliances Receive up to a * Installation Allowance via a MasterCard® Prepaid Card By Mail with Purchase of Select Jenn-Air Brand Appliances Fire & Ice Design your kitchen Customize your savings.* With the flexibility to choose a FREE* appliance from a variety of options, designing your kitchen has never felt so luxurious Offer Valid July 1– December 31, 2015 Offer Valid July 1– December 31, 2015 INDUSTRY EXCLUSIVE! Receive an allowance for installation charges as indicated on sales or installation invoice up to the amounts indicated below. Please indicate qualifying Jenn-Air brand model(s) purchased and note serial number(s) YOUR PURCHASE YOUR REWARD July 1– December 31, 2015 Receive FREE product valued at up to $3,798 when you purchase select appliances* Charlotte’s Favorite Appliance Store Charlotte 5431 Monroe Rd. 704-568-7600 *See store for details Huntersville 9715 A Sam Furr Rd 704-896-9626 Matthews & Outlet Center 9405 E. Independence Blvd 704-708-4223 Pineville 11523-D Carolina Place Pkwy 704-527-5510 EXPERIENCE THE JOY Giving Back OF Charity Home Tour Benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters Starting October 16th - November 1st Open Weekends Only Children 12 and Under - Free The Welch House, a fully furnished, professionally designed brand new home built by award-winning, New Old Luxury Custom Homes, will be open to the public for a charity tour benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters during Friday - Sunday on weekends starting October 16th. Visitors will delight in the home’s many unique architectural features and its exquisite interior design. The $10 entry fee will be donated to help the children of this worthy charity that currently serves over 1,500 “at risk” children in Mecklenburg County, while another 300+ children wait for a mentor. 888.573.2932 ChevalNC.com Homes from $475 to $2 million+ 6809 Joli Cheval Lane • Mint Hill, NC Located in Mint Hill - Inside 485 just off Thompson at Lawyers Road. No federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Void where prohibited by law. Prices subject to change without notice. EXP L ORE OTTE L AR CH Our latest finds in home, events and shopping in Charlotte Home With Heart Owned and operated by interior designer Lynn Anne Bruns, Home With Heart is exactly that – a shop in a re-imagined home, full of heart. Filled to the brim with gifts, home accessories, children’s toys and heap of charm, even if you have nothing on your list to get, the shop is worth the walk-through. You’ll be sure to find something you just can’t live without. Visit the shop in Charlotte on Cherokee Road, or visit Lynn’s website at www.lakbdesign.com. The Brass Exchange The Produce Box The Brass Exchange, originated in Blowing Rock, NC, has been in Charlotte for the past 11 years and with such a wide range of offerings, is now a mainstay and favorite for shoppers looking for quality home accessories. The Exchange carries furniture made by Bramble, Steven Shell and Furniture Classics Ltd., in addition to a variety of accessories including lamps, mirrors, art, pillows, pottery, greenery and seasonal décor. If you’re looking for unique home accessories at competitive pricing, check out this Gem at the Arboretum or visit facebook.com/Brass-Exchange-Home. The Produce Box is a North Carolina Company that began humbly in Raleigh and has since spread to Charlotte and the surrounding areas – bringing whole foods to the local masses. The company delivers fresh local fruits, veggies and specialty products like local artisan meats, cheeses and breads right to the doorsteps of residences and offices. You can order a weekly box, choosing from any predetermined menu based on availability, or you can build your own box. Skip or cancel whenever you like. Boxes range in price from $20-$30/week. For more information or to sign up, visit www.theproducebox.com. 96 Urban Home Charlotte October / November 2015 Crafting beautiful outdoor living spaces since 1982 Design/ Build services: • General Contracting • OutdoorKitchens / Fireplaces / Entertainment Areas • Swimming Pool / Pool House Construction • Professional Landscape Design Coogan’s Landscape Design 810 Main Street Pineville NC 28134 704.889.1500 www.cooganslandscape.com designing entries... CUSTOM WOOD & WrouGHT IRON ONE-OF-A-KIND ENTRIES FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OR REPLACEMENT 704-987-0777 | www.clarkhalldoors.com | Visit our new showroom at 3034 Griffith Street Brass Exchange Home Charlotte and Blowing Rock 3407-100 Pineville-Matthews Road Charlotte, NC 28226 704-377-2152 exciting New Arrivals of Bramble Furniture, Steven Shell & Furniture Classics (images shown are from the Bramble Collection) Visit our Store at the Arboretum Located between PetCo and Bed Bath and Beyond. Just Minutes From I-485 and Providence Road Exit. style&value We craft the places where life converges. And, when the time is right, we’re ready to bring style & value together in your home – the kitchen, bedroom, bath – wherever. Converging style & value since 195O. 7O4.334.5477 Members of NARI NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE REMODELING INDUSTRY MEMBER Award winning home renovators and builders with a talent for details. Better Business Bureau of Southern Piedmont Home Builders Association of Charlotte MTNS TO COAST G E N E R A L C O N T R AC TO R andrewroby.com B c the Ro bee R oby family of companies