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DESIGN. PERFORMANCE. SUITE.
Founded in 1949, Fulgor Milano manufactured wood-burning stoves and today, they build upon that heritage by offering their complete line of premium kitchen appliances that exceed all expectations of quality, performance and design. Fulgor Milano products are handcrafted by artisans in Northern Italy but have been designed and manufactured specifically with the American consumer in mind. View our complete product offering at www.fulgor-milano.com
Proudly displayed at Howard Payne Company, Atlanta’s premier kitchen appliance dealer. 3600 American Drive Chamblee, GA 30341 P. (770) 451-0136 W. howardpayne.com
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BEST OF
2020
BEST WATERPROOFING COMPANY
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of 2019 BEST Foundation Repair Company
8/20/21 1:07 PM
VISIT ONE OF OUR ATLANTA SHOWROOMS www.ConstructionResourcesUSA.com
MARC MAULDIN PHOTOGRAPHY, INC. DESIGNER: ANGELIQUE BAEZ – VIVICO INTERIORS
224 Rio Circle | Decatur, GA 30030 | 404.378.3132
COUNTERTOPS | CLOSET SYSTEMS | FIREPLACES | GARAGE DOORS | LIGHTING SHOWER DOORS & MIRRORS | SINKS & FAUCETS | TILE & FLOORING
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7455 Trowbridge Road | Sandy Springs, GA 30328| 404.255.0640 APPLIANCES | OUTDOOR LIVING
7/30/21 3:47 PM
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contents
48
Farmhouse Chic
Comfort, character and closeness take center stage with this popular design style. Special Section
27 Backyard Bosses
36
Spice Up Your Kitchen
From drab to fab! Making small updates to your outdated kitchen can make a world of difference.
Photos courtesy (top) Allen Patterson Builders. Photography by (bottom l to r) Jeff Herr Photography, David Cannon, Sarah Dorio.
Check out these pools, decks and outdoor kitchens crafted by Atlanta’s top experts.
6 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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A
(bottom l to r) Jeff Herr Photography, David Cannon, Sarah Dorio.
LEGACY OF
FREE IN-HOME
Atlanta’s only authorized dealer of Overhead Door™ products.
SAME-DAY
Greatness!
VISIT OUR
Estimates Service
Showroom
404-566-9872
OverheadDoorAtlanta.com 5105 Avalon Ridge Parkway, Peachtree Corners, GA 30071
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contents 22
Kitchen & Bath Trends
12 Home Service Pro Partners Answer Questions About:
17
• Matching fixtures to your new shower
19
10 publisher’s letter Fall into Your Next Project
• Shades for uniquely-shaped windows • Waterproof Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
19 sustainable living Here's the 411 on energy-efficient windows
17 find it local
• Garage door maintenance • Locating your downspouts • Changing window styles • Burning smell from your heater
• Siding that won't fade
Places to go and stuff you'll love
• Pests in the crawl space
on the cover: Home and fashion blogger Lauren Lefevre poses with her welcoming front porch fall décor. Get the scoop on how to re-create this look with products from Grandin Road on her blog at www.editbylauren.com. Follow @laurenlefevre on Instagram for even more inspiration and fun ideas. Photography by Katie Cathell @kvcphotography. www.kvcphotography.com
Photos courtesy of (top left) Amba Products; (top right) Elkay Manufacturing, photography by Kreber; (bottom left) Traton Homes, photography by TourFactory; (bottom middle) Infinity® from Marvin®.
Update your space with new products and design ideas you'll love.
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Photos courtesy of (top left) Amba Products; (top right) Elkay Manufacturing, photography by Kreber; (bottom left) Traton Homes, photography by TourFactory; (bottom middle) Infinity® from Marvin®.
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Fall into Your Next Project
I don’t know about you, but fall is when I usually get pretty active with my projects. Spring and summer are all about outside — planting, pruning, more planting. By late September, the evenings are finally cool enough for us to sit outside and really enjoy the landscape. We can even start to use the fire pit again and relax after a long day of indoor projects. This issue is full of inspiration for inside and out! Check out our Backyard Bosses on page 27 for some of the best professionals in outdoor living. Pools, decks, outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas all expand your living space and include a view. Take a look, make your plans and remember that everything takes a little more time these days, so be patient. It is best to wait for the best person for the job. Choose the contractor you can easily communicate with and who has great references. The three factors you want to keep in mind when working on your home projects are time, cost and quality of work. If you want it fast, it will either cost you more or the quality will suffer. If you want a low cost, it will either take a long time or the quality will suffer. Choose a timeline, budget and contractor that will work for you. For some indoor inspiration, check out our feature on Farmhouse Chic on page 48. Take the quiz to see if your farmhouse style is modern, traditional, transitional or European. From lighting, paint colors and cabinetry to the whole house, you can mix and match to find what works for you. And, of course, for inside and out, plus maintaining your home, visit the Fall Atlanta Home Show on Sept. 10-12 to see the latest and greatest products available and talk to the professionals who can help you get projects off of your “to-do” list. I can’t believe this will be our 20th year as a partner with them! For more resources to start your own home improvement projects, go to www.atlantahomeimprovement.com. Follow us on www.facebook.com/MyHomeImprovementATL, www.instagram.com/myhomeimprovementatl and www.twitter.com/ATLHomeImprove. Happy Home Improving!
Sherri Adair PUBLISHER
Patti Stephens ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
David Leonard EDITOR
Cory Olesen MEDIA CONSULTANTS - PRINT/DIGITAL
Dawn DeSantis Amy Smith
SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT/ NORTH ATLANTA REGION
Witt Beckman ART DIRECTOR
Dona Halliday GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION
A.J. Weston
MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER
Wyndi Kappes
DIGITAL MEDIA & EVENTS ASSISTANT
Emily Chebib
OFFICE MANAGER
Gail Sawyer
CONTRIBUTORS
Barbra Buoy Katie Cathell Alexandra McCray Melanie Preis Alexandra Shimalla
For print, email and digital advertising information, contact us at: 4279 Roswell Rd. NE., Ste. 208, #217 Atlanta, GA 30342 404-303-9333 info@homeimprovementmag.com
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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My Home Improvement magazine uses soy-based ink and is printed on 100% recyclable paper. Our print partner, Panaprint, Inc., is a certified Green Printer. All excess ink, paper and printing plates are recycled.
Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above. My Home Improvement does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. My Home Improvement reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.
Georgia Chapter
Patti Stephens, Publisher
Georgia Chapter
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Photography by Sawyer Photography, hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Improving your living space inside and out continues to be a huge focus this year and is predicted to be just as big in 2022. As much as we love getting back out there, our home is our haven and, for most people, their favorite place to be.
PRESIDENT/FOUNDER
Georgia Chapter
8/24/21 1:10 PM
Photography by Sawyer Photography, hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
BEST OF
2020
BEST DECK DESIGN/ BUILD COMPANY
of
2019 WINNER
my Vinings/Smyrna READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
CUSTOM DESIGN PLANS. PROFESSIONAL CRAFTMANSHIP. 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Additions • Bathrooms Basements • Decks & Sunrooms Outdoor Kitchens Screened In Porches • Patios
2019 National Winner for Best Porch Via Nadra = North American Deck and Rail Association
TM
Creating Your Outdoor Oasis.
SM
770.235.6929 | decksandmore.biz We design a plan that best suits your needs, and create your relaxing retreat!
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Home Service P
For more information, go to www.AtlantaHomeImproveme WINDOW COVERINGS
SHOWER ENCLOSURES
Q
I have several specialty shaped windows in my home. Are there any options to cover these windows?
A
Yes, we offer many options for specialty shaped windows such as triangles, ovals, octagons, arches, etc. We can custom
make shutters, wood blinds, Duette® shades, Silhouette® shades, Vignette® Roman shades and Pirouette® shades
that will fit just about any specialty shaped window. The Duette Easy View offers an operable option for arches.
Classic Blinds & Shutters Design Center Years in Business: 25 Associations: BBB A+ Rated, Best of Houzz (2016-2018) 678.822.0928 www.classicblindsandshutters.com See ad on p. 54
Q
Andrea Zare
When getting a new glass shower door, what else can I do to improve the design of my bathroom?
A
Drexler offers towel bars and other accessories to keep your towels, robes and other personal items accessible. We can
David Drexler
help you determine the optimal location for these components to best improve the flow and space in your bathroom. Simply
choose the knob or pull you prefer for your door, and we can show you all the matching accessories. It’s that easy!
WINDOW REPLACEMENT
Q
Do I have to go back with the same window style that I currently have?
A
All Infinity® from Marvin® fiberglass windows are custom made to fit each opening in your home. Just because
you may have a doublehung window in the opening now doesn’t mean you can’t replace it with another style (i.e., casement, slider, etc.) later. Depending upon other factors with your home, we also are able to modify your existing opening or convert windows to doors and vice versa.
North Georgia Replacement Windows
Drexler Glass Co. Years in Business: 66 Associations: NARI, BBB A+ Rated 404.351.4141 www.drexlerglass.com See ad on p. 2
Ted Kirk and Jonathan Collum
Years in Business: 18 Associations: BBB A+ Rated, NARI 770.888.1604 www.ngwindows.com See ad on p. 58
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e Partners Q&A
ovement.com and click on Find A Pro. GARAGE DOORS
Q
How often should a professional perform maintenance on my garage door, and why is it so important?
FLOORING INSTALLATION
A
I recommend annual service on any door you’ve had for five years or more. A garage door is the largest moving piece of equipment in your home and has lots of moving parts. So, an
annual tuneup is a great way to keep your door running
smoothly and avoid being stuck out in the cold.
Overhead Door Company of Atlanta™
John Nale
GUTTERS
Years in Business: 86 Associations: GAHBA, IDA, BBB A+ Rated 404.872.3667 www.overheaddooratlanta.com See ad on p. 7
Q
Are luxury vinyl floors really waterproof?
A
Q
How do I know where my downspouts need to be located?
A
Generally, a downspout should be installed about every 30 feet or so. A gutter
design specialist and the homeowner usually can come up with a plan that combines both aesthetics and performance. This may
require a different downspout location from its current design and may also include underground piping to keep water away from the foundation.
AquaGuard Foundation Solutions
Tom DiGregorio and Joe Rusk
Years in Business: 26 Associations: Groundworks, NARI, BHA, GREC, ACCG 770.685.7825 www.aquaguard.net See ad on p. 15
Luxury vinyl floors are topically waterproof, meaning the product itself is waterproof. However, this does not mean that water cannot get under the vinyl via the perimeter of the room, or that water cannot be present under the vinyl (a slab with a high moisture content, a broken pipe in the subfloor, etc.).
The product itself may be waterproof, but in the case of Elisabeth Stubbs standing water or flooding, the luxury vinyl tile (LVT)/ luxury vinyl plank (LVP) will not act as a waterproofing barrier for the subfloor and/or any surrounding structure.
Enhance Floors & More Years in Business: 36 Associations: BBB A+ Rated, Mohawk Five-Star Retailer 770.565.3808 www.enhancefloors.com See ad on p. 35
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Home Service Partners Q&A For more information, go to www.AtlantaHomeImprovement.com and click on Find A Pro.
SIDING
Q
What can I do to prevent my siding color from fading?
HVAC
A
I always recommend choosing a lighter color paint that’s not going to fade as much. Fading isn’t so much about the siding as it is about the paint manufacturer, and you’re always going to get fade with paint — always. Instead of picking a red, blue or green that’s going to fade a lot quicker and be more obvious, pick a color that’s
not going to be as noticeable when it does fade.
Painting Plus
Charlie Dallavalle
Q
Why is there a burning smell when I turn the heat on for the first time each year?
A
This is common. After a long period of time without use, dust and other debris can settle on the heat exchanger, burners and other heating components.
That smoky odor should stop in a few minutes once all the dust and other particles are burned away, Bill Mashraky
which is a normal occurrence.
WATERPROOFING
Q
Is it true that pests in my crawl space mean I could have water issues in the future?
A
Not necessarily. However, pests love moist environments, and even though you may not have a current water leakage issue, it could occur in the future. A good
way to eliminate pests is to control the moisture and humidity levels in the crawl space through encapsulation. During this process, the crawl
space is isolated with a heavy-duty liner that covers the dirt floor and is sealed up the foundation walls, and a commercial-grade dehumidifier is installed to create a dry and healthy environment.
Engineered Solutions of Georgia
Cool Air Mechanical Years in Business: 11 Associations: NATE, BBB A+ Rated 770.266.5247 www.770coolair.com See ad on p. 9
Years in Business: 23 Associations: NKBA, HBA 770.971.1577 www.paintingplus.com See ad on p. 63
Derek Ritchie
Years in Business: 14 Associations: GuildQuality®, BBB A+ Rated 678.290.1325 www.esogrepair.com See ad on p. 4
14 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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8/24/21 11:58 AM
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Before Gutters channel roof water away from your home. Unfortunately, most standard gutter systems get clogged with leaves and other debris and fail to properly collect roof water. When this happens, water sheets over your gutters and pours directly onto the ground, saturating it with water and causing problems for your home’s foundation.
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BEST OF
2020
BEST of 2018 CONTEST
of 2019
Winners BEST
BEST Underdeck Systems Company
UNDERDECK SYSTEMS COMPANY
Bringing Indoors and Outdoors Together Southeastern Underdeck Systems, LLC 2755 Faith Industrial Dr. • Buford, GA 30518 Cell: 404.405.0754 • Main: 678.765.7686 • Toll Free: 855.238.5695 • Fax: 678.765.0601 •
Email: seud@southeasternunderdeck.com • www.southeasternunderdeck.com
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Photos courtesy of (top left) Urban Cottage, photography by Heidi Harris Photography;
BEST UNDERDECK SYSTEMS COMPANY
FIND IT LOCAL places to go and stuff you'll love
Photos courtesy of (top left) Urban Cottage, photography by Heidi Harris Photography; (bottom right) Traton Homes, photography by TourFactory.
Add some artisan elegance to your dining table with these beautiful, block print tablecloths available at Urban Cottage. Handmade by skilled artisans, these linens are available in a variety of designs and vibrant colors. With slight variations on each piece, these are truly a work of art for your table. Starting at $64. 98 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta. www.urbancottageatlanta.com Need some help with your fall gardening and yardwork? The North Fulton Master Gardeners' Fall 2021 Lecture Series is just the thing. The seven lectures will cover everything from fall
vegetable planting to lawn care and even garden activities for the kids. The series will be presented virtually via Zoom, with classes placed on their YouTube channel for later viewing. www.nfmg.net
2021
of
my Buckhead Best Roofer
Congratulations to Ben Hill Renovations for being
voted best roofer in our sister publication My Buckhead's Best of 2021! Family-owned, Ben Hill Renovations has been in business for more than 55 years and provides customers with a complete renovation of their home’s exterior. They specialize in roofs, gutters, siding, windows, decks, pergolas, porticos and much more! 8990 Hwy 5, Douglasville. www.bhrenovations.com
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) - Atlanta is hosting its 12th annual golf tournament on Oct. 20 at Bear’s Best Atlanta. Enjoy a day on the green with employees or a client to celebrate a successful year! Along with the tournament, there will also be a full lunch buffet, raffle prizes and additional games. Reservations are open until Oct. 18. 5342 Aldeburgh Dr., Suwanee. www.nariatlanta.org/events
Homes should be designed to be lived in comfortably. That’s what Atlanta homebuilder Traton Homes believes. With innovative design features and timely floorplans, Traton Homes has been crafting thoughtful homes for the 55+ community since 1971. Browse current communities and see what’s waiting in your new home. 720 Kennesaw Ave., Marietta. www.tratonhomes.com
17 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Dan Xiong
Right Choice™ Homeowner
comfort
GUARANTEED
“Jackson EMC is a company we trust…so the fact that the Energy Efficient Homes. Guaranteed.
jacksonemc.com/rightchoice
Right Choice program is Jackson EMC’s, meant our home would be designed and built to very high standards. I tell anyone buying a home, if you have a choice, get a Right Choice home. We have been extremely pleased with everything.” – Dan Xiong Watch our video series at jacksonemc.com/rightchoice.
Brought to you only by
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SUSTAINABLE LIVING
the 411 on energy-efficient windows By Alexandra McCray If you’ve ever felt like you can hear everything happening in your neighborhood when sitting next to one of your closed windows, then you know what it’s like to have windows that aren’t energy-efficient. Replacing them can not only make your home eco-friendlier, but they can also improve curb appeal, protect indoor items from ultraviolet (UV) damage, and minimize outdoor noise.
Components of an Energy-Efficient Window Various features contribute to the energy efficiency of windows. Ones you purchase should have some or all of the following:
• A long-lasting frame with minimal upkeep. • At least two panes of glass with air or nontoxic gas like argon or krypton in between to enhance insulation. Gas is more effective.
• A warm-edge spacer to ensure adequate distance between the panes. • Coatings, such as Low-E, on the glass to reflect infrared and UV light. The Right Ratings Additionally, be sure to look for the ENERGY STAR® sticker when shopping for energy-efficient windows. This government-backed designation means a lot of the research has been done for you. In 2021, it qualifies you to earn up to a $200 tax credit as well.
NRFC label courtesy of the National Fenestration Rating Council.
ENERGY STAR®-certified windows will also have a National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label. This sticker has four ratings to know about:
U-Factor The window’s insulation ability and heat conduction speed.
Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) The window’s capacity to keep out heat from sunlight.
Visible transmittance How much natural light the window allows in.
Air leakage The amount of air that comes in through the window (drafts).
Sometimes you may see a condensation resistance rating as well. These are optional for the manufacturers. Different ratings are appropriate for different climates. The majority of Georgia falls into the South-Central zone, so energy-efficient windows used in our region should have a U-Factor of 0.30 or below and SHGC of 0.25 or below.
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We Specialize In Raising Settled Concrete
For more information about energy-efficient labels, visit www.energystar.gov or www.nfrc.org.
House & Building Leveling & Foundation Repair
DON’T REPLACE!
Raise
Settled Concrete!
AFTER • Driveways • Foundations • Garage Slabs • Patios
• Pool Decks • Sidewalks • Stoops
BEFORE
Photo courtesy of Infinity® from Marvin®.
MudJack Atlanta
Makes and Models There are plenty of styles and frame materials to choose from. Some top frame materials include fiberglass, composite and vinyl. Regarding styles, the team at SoftLite Windows & Doors notes that double-hung and casement windows are quite popular and highly efficient.
770.941.0568 MudjackAtlanta.com
North Georgia Windows emphasizes that the proper installation of your new windows is equally important. The money you save in energy costs can quickly blow away if your windows aren’t properly installed. Time and money needed for maintenance are also factors to consider when purchasing new windows. www.soft-lite.com, www.ngwindows.com For more information on eligible tax credits for energy efficiency, please visit www.irs.gov.
To Bump Up the Energy Efficiency 5Ways Of Your Old Windows If replacing one or all of your windows isn’t in the cards right now, try these suggestions to increase your home’s energy efficiency. 1 Keep window sealant fresh and in good condition 2 Add storm windows 3 Hire a professional to weatherstrip and seal air leaks 4 Regularly replace your air filter 5 Make sure heating and cooling ducts are achieving peak performance
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TRENDS
Kitchen & bath trends By Barbra Buoy
Form Meets Function
Texture Meets Design New countertop materials blend the visual and the tactile in one stunning package. Cambria’s new Satin Ridge™finish, LEABRIDGE™, features gradations of cool white and warm honey with textured ridges on the borders, creating a look reminiscent of salt flats. www.cambriausa.com
Photos courtesy of (top) Elkay Manufacturing, photography by Kreber; (bottom) Cambria.
Elkay’s innovative Dart Canyon™stainless steel farmhouse sink is a beautiful blend of function and style. The ADA-compliant, one-of-a-kind design features a built-in work shelf to hold sponges and other utensils, a nine-inch-deep bowl for stacking dishes or filling pots, and optional accessories for easy meal prep. www.elkay.com
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Damp towels are breeding grounds for mold and foul odors. Heated towel racks created by local company Amba Products keep towels fresh and dry. The racks are available in a range of sizes and finishes to fit any décor and come with handy accessories such as programmable timers. www.ambaproducts.com
Natural Beauty The use of natural elements and textures adds interest to otherwise mundane everyday objects. Available in blue or white agate, the Cordero cabinet knob blends indoor utility with outdoor beauty. Each piece is uniquely designed with an irregular shape, guaranteeing no two are exactly alike. www.build.com Photos courtesy of (top) Amba Products, (bottom left) Leicht USA, (bottom right) Signature Hardware at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery.
Photos courtesy of (top) Elkay Manufacturing, photography by Kreber; (bottom) Cambria.
Fresh and Clean
Work-Life Balance Gone is the traditional kitchen island whose main function was serving as an oversized cutting board. This multifunctional piece from German Kitchen Center features clean lines and integrates low tables, perfect for working from home or doing schoolwork without having to sequester in an office. www.germankitchencenter.com
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Bring the tropical trend to your bath with bamboo. Kucera’s environmentallyfriendly bamboo hand shower with four body-spray nozzles adds an elegant touch to any bathroom. Thermostatic technology maintains a constant temperature, eliminating unexpected bursts of hot or cold water. www.build.com
Champagne Tastes If porcelain conjures up images of vintage dolls and jewelry dishes, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. The marbled walls of this striking floor-to-ceiling walk-in shower are just that, porcelain. Through the magic of technology, this inexpensive material can transform into a modern marble look-alike for a fraction of the cost. www.constructionresourcesusa.com
A Perfect Match With kitchens being a focal point of home design, the utilitarian vent hood has slowly evolved from a ubiquitous silver metal fan to a centerpiece. Becky Costa of Top Shop Stone says the latest trend is matching the hood material to counters and backsplash like this Calacatta Ouro Porcelain for a seamless look. www.topshopstone.com
Photos courtesy of (top left) Signature Hardware at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery; (top right) Construction Resources, photography by Terrie Chastain; (middle) Top Shop Stone, photography by Kimberly Evans; (bottom) MTI Baths.
Shower Power
Fit for a King MTI Baths' new Bowie tub is an architectural addition to any bathroom with its unique pleated exterior. Each tub is made-to-order and handcrafted from MTI’s signature SculptureStone® material, a mostly organic mixture of ground natural minerals and resins with the look and feel of molded stone. www.mtibaths.com
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YOUR KITCHEN | YOUR STYLE
photography by Kimberly Evans; (bottom) MTI Baths.
FAMILY OWNED | THE BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE IN THE INDUSTRY | OVER 50 BRANDS OF APPLIANCES TO FIT ANY BUDGET. |
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LUXURY BRANDS INCLUDE SUB-ZERO, WOLF, GE CAFÉ, TRUE AND OTHER BRANDS SUCH AS KITCHENAID AND ELECTROLUX.
NORTH POINT APPLIANCE
4010 NINE MCFARLAND RD., ALPHARETTA
770-754-1390
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Stop! Don’t feed the weeds this fall. Fertilizer is food for your grass, but sometimes feeding your lawn can actually be a bad idea. Fertilizing benefits your lawn most when the grass is actively growing. Applying fertilizer at the wrong time can set up new growth for failure and even help unwanted weeds to thrive. Lawn fertilizer can be found at any home and garden store. The packages are marked with three numbers, such as 10-10-10, which refer to the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium — always in that order. These three nutrients are vital for healthy grass, but different seasons call for different approaches.
Worst of all, when you add nitrogen to warm-season grass too late in the fall, you inadvertently feed the cool-season weeds that thrive while your lawn lies dormant. Don’t encourage the weeds! Wait until late spring and add a nitrogen rich fertilizer every four to six weeks through mid-summer when growth is most active. Giving your lawn a boost of phosphorus and potassium before winter is a great idea, however. Potassium helps protect grass from winter’s chill, and phosphorus gives the grass what it needs to store energy for a beautiful spring green-up. Look for fertilizers with a lower first number, like 6-12-18 or 4-12-12. Feeding Cool-Season Grass Grasses that stay green year-round, like tall fescue, thrive during the cooler temperatures of fall and spring. October and November are great months to add nitrogen to a fescue lawn, supporting rapid growth with necessary nutrients. You can fertilize again in early spring, but avoid over-fertilizing in late spring and summer, when fescue growth slows.
REBEL® SUPREME FESCUE PRODUCES RICH, GREEN COLOR ALL YEAR LONG.
If you’re preparing to fertilize a fescue lawn and you haven’t tested your soil in two years or more, send samples to your County Extension Service first. (Find your county office at extension.uga.edu/ county-offices.) You will receive a report letting you know exactly which nutrients need to be added to amend your soil. A pH reading will also include recommendations to help balance the acidity of your soil. Following the Extension Service guidelines will give your grass exactly what it needs to grow healthy and strong, helping ward off disease, pests and weeds. If you have amended your soil recently, look for a general lawn fertilizer at your garden supply center that includes a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. If you have questions about feeding your lawn, contact our Certified Turfgrass Professionals.
Photo courtesy of NG Turf.
Feeding Warm-Season Grass Warm season grasses, like Bermuda, zoysia or centipede, go dormant and turn brown in the winter. Applying nitrogen-rich fertilizer to these grasses in fall, especially within six weeks of the first frost, would be largely wasted since growth slows down in the transition to dormancy. Also, tender new growth prompted by fall nitrogen is more susceptible to winter’s bite.
Give us a call at 770-431-1344 or visit ngturf.com
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When it's time to create your dream outdoor living space
Call Atlanta’s
Photo courtesy of NG Turf.
BACKYARD BOSSES
FRANK POLOGRUTO, DECKS & MORE, INC.
JOHN MARTINEZ, ALISON POOLS, LLC
MIKE LAWSON, TONY MARTIN AND MELDA DUCKWORTH, ETOWAH GROUP
27 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Backyard Boss
Frank Pologruto, founder of Decks & More, Inc. SPECIALTY:
Designing and Building Custom Decks As a homeowner, you want a design that speaks to your personality and lifestyle coupled with excellent craftsmanship and quality materials. Decks & More is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and their commitment to building quality decks has once again brought them the honor of three NARI Atlanta 2020 Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards. They won in the categories of Residential Exterior – $100,001 to $200,000, and Residential Landscape Design/ Outdoor Living – $100,000 to $250,000 and have received many more local and national CotY awards in the past. Landscape Design/Outdoor Living – $100,000 to $250,000: The goal of this project was to create a relaxing retreat with both covered and outdoor elements. The Decks & More team constructed a screened in porch with a gable roof and stone fireplace that leads out to a large paved patio with a firepit.
We are Atlanta’s award-winning deck builder with over 120 design awards for excellence! —Frank Pologruto
NARI Atlanta’s 2020 CotY Award Residential Exterior-$100,001 to $200,000
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NARI Atlanta’s 2020 CotY Award Residential Exterior-$100,001 to $200,000
Residential Exterior – $100,001 to $200,000, and Residential: For this project, the homeowners wanted to make the most use of their vertical space. Decks & More created a multi-level design with a screened in porch and upperdeck with outdoors stairs that provided access to the stone patio below, giving them outdoor space to enjoy year-round!
LEARN ABOUT
Recently, Decks and More, Inc. was also honored with five International Construction Awards from the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). They won one First Place for Best Covered Porch, three Impeccable Second Places for Limitless service & design Creation, Wood Deck from The highest quality $50,000 - $100,000 and materials Closed Porch and one 3-year limited warranty Third Place for Unique on new jobs Features.
• Frank Pologruto, founder and owner of Decks and More, Inc. has been building awardwinning designs of outdoor living spaces since 2001.
Professional craftsmen
We love to create your outdoor oasis.
Frank Pologruto
• He is a professional member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). • He ensures that his company stays current with trends and building codes.
Contact Decks & More today! www.decksandmore.biz
• Decks and More has been in business for 20 years and has completed more than 1,000 remodeling jobs and earned more than 120 major design and contractor awards.
1060 Medlin Street, Smyrna
• Since 2010, Decks and More has donated more than $250,000 to area churches and charities.
770-235-6929
NARI Atlanta COtY Award Landscape Design/ Outdoor Living - $100,000 to $250,000.
Atlanta’s custom deck builder,
This content is brought to you by Decks & More.
29 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Backyard Boss John Martinez, founder of Alison Pools, LLC SPECIALTY:
Building, Repairing and Maintaining Pools The talented team at Alison Pools, LLC has been servicing homeowners and companies for nearly 15 years. With each project, the company’s members strive to achieve the highest level of excellence when servicing an existing swimming pool or building a new one. Their creative and unique designs are stellar because they consider all design elements — use of color, space, texture, balance, harmony — when developing concepts for any backyard transformation. “We are artistically blessed with creative individuals on our team,” says founder and owner John Martinez. Thanks to their accreditation with the Association of Pool & Hot Tub Alliance as a certified building professional and the accrual of more than 150 ACET-accredited hours as a registered
We are the pool and spa experts Atlanta homeowners trust. —John Martinez
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member with Watershape University and the Society of Watershape Designers, they meet or exceed the construction and service industry standards for every project. Plus, up-to-date certification for professional training with Genesis3 University ensures that they continue to strive for excellence and promise to make a big splash when it comes to your needs. The company’s motto is to use an “Engineered and artistic approach to outdoor living.” Ask about our Give them a call. The team at 3D Pool Designs Alison Pools, LLC is looking & Complimentary forward to working for you and bringing your vision to life. Salt Systems
Are you ready to plan your project or repair and maintain your pool? Contact:
www.AlisonPools.net
678-528-4521
2618 Lone Oak Trail Kennesaw, GA 30144 This content is brought to you by Alison Pools, LLC.
LEARN ABOUT
Atlanta’s top pool & spa expert,
John Martinez
• He founded Alison Pools, LLC in 2005. • John Martinez is an electrical engineer and a certified building professional who is a registered member with Watershape University and the Society of Watershape Designers from Genesis3 University. • His company, Alison Pools, LLC, provides solutions in design, construction, repairs and maintenance for residential and commercial swimming pool environments. • The father of three is a foodie. “I love food and wine! I am very immersed in Atlanta’s restaurants and I’m friends with local chefs,” Martinez says.
31 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Backyard Bosses
Mike Lawson, Tony Martin and Melda Duckworth, Etowah Group SPECIALTY:
Custom Designers of Outdoor Kitchens We custom design and construct outdoor kitchens, living areas and entertainment centers complete with landscaping to bring your ideas to life! Blending flowering gardens, distinctive stonework, walkways and cascading plantings, the Etowah Group creates welcoming and relaxing outdoor living spaces that are breathtaking yet blend into the natural environment. With a keen attention to detail, Etowah evaluates your property and integrates your ideas into conceptual designs and budgets. With your approval, our craftsmen and stonemasons work hand-in-hand with the natural beauty of your property to create extraordinary outdoor facilities and install stunning landscapes for your family and friends to enjoy for years to come.
We create welcoming and relaxing outdoor living spaces that are simply breathtaking. —Tony Martin
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From large stonework grills to full service outdoor kitchens and living spaces, the Etowah Group designs and builds Atlanta’s most exciting backyards and landscapes. Founded in 2004, the Etowah Group has prided itself in bringing a strong scientific approach and deep knowledge of horticulture, floriculture and agronomy to the design, installation and maintenance of all its plantings and projects.
Site Evaluation Budget Planning Conceptual Designs Landscape/ Hardscape Plans Installation
To set up a free consultation on your outdoor kitchen or landscape project call our office manager, Vanessa, at
678.354.0757
or email her at vanessa@etowahgroup.com www.etowahgroup.com 1930b Dorsey Rd Marietta, Ga 30066 This content is brought to you by Etowah Group.
LEARN ABOUT
Atlanta’s top experts Tony Martin • Expertise of a head gardener. Enjoys planting and caring for flowerbeds, plantings and landscapes that are full of seasonal color. • 20 years of experience • Degree in agronomy and minor in horticulture. Melda Duckworth • Brings European design tastes to create unique Southern landscapes. • Award-winning landscape designer with over 10 years experience. Michael W. Lawson • Specializes in residential construction, renovations and interior enhancements and is an expert in construction planning, permitting and code compliance. • Over 30 years experience • LEED certified.
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Commercial and Residential Landscaping Services
Helping with all your growing needs of
2019 WINNER
my Alpharetta READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
PLEASE CALL US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
770-889-4968
www.synergylandscapegroup.com 1
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12/13/18 1/17/18 10:48 1:52 PM AM
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Serving the North Georgia Area
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EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST
Enhance Floors & More Design Consultants offer years of realworld experience and product knowledge not often found in large national chain stores. We know that your home is one of your largest investments and you don’t want to make expensive mistakes. We want to help you make the right decisions for your home. Don’t trust your project to a company that you have never heard of and cannot research. Our strong reputation for quality and customer service gives you peace of mind.
FALL FLOORING FORECAST
We are your total home design center! Visit our Marietta Showroom and make your dream home a reality. • Beautiful Showroom Filled with Samples to See, Touch and Feel • Featuring Over 40 Different Installed Flooring Products
/18 7/18 1:52 1:52PM PM
• Full-Sized Kitchen, Bath and Staircase Displays
Fall is finally just around the corner! The leaves will be changing, and the weather is cooling down.
• Voted Best Place to Shop for Flooring 2018, 2019, 2020 • Locally Owned and Operated • Practice Social Distancing Easily In Our 6000+ sq ft Showroom!
Changing your floors may be on your “To Do List” this fall. We are often asked what’s popular and what other clients are doing.
BEST OF
2020
BEST FLOORING STORE/COMPANY
BEST of 2018
of 2019 BEST Flooring Store/Company
CONTEST
Winners BEST
FLOORING STORE/COMPANY
Hardwood floors are always in demand. Real wood is truly timeless and is the only floor that can look brand new again after years of wear and tear or if you want to change the color. Wide plank floors in lighter tones are in vogue. Clients are moving away from the super dark colors like Espresso and Jacobean -- they show everything! This year, perhaps surprisingly, carpet is a strong seller. We think carpet is like a comfort food: familiar, cozy, warm. And affordable. Carpet is the flooring of choice for bedrooms and cold basements. Popular looks include patterns in “cut and loop” (also called LCL) and Berber designs. Carpets with color flecks are sought after choices, especially for active households. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is also in demand for active families or areas like basements where moisture is a concern. Luxury vinyl is available in wood looks (3” to 9” wide planks) and tile and stone visuals in extremely realistic patterns and textures. Luxury vinyl is very durable and stain resistant. Most have attached backings, which add warmth, cushioning, and sound deadening properties.
1847 Roswell Road, Marietta 30062 | 770-565-3808 | www.enhancefloors.com
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Your Kitchen
From drab to fab! Making small updates to your outdated kitchen can make a world of difference. By Melanie Preis
K
itchens are the lifeblood of the home — where we break bread, celebrate (or commiserate) the day’s events, congregate during a party and show off our love of food. Sometimes, we’re just showing off our stunning space. But if our kitchen is outdated and not ready for show-and-tell, it might be time to spice things up a bit.
Having a full renovation completed, like some of the ones seen in this article, isn't the only way to reinvent your cookhouse. Changing handles and pulls, updating lighting, refinishing cabinetry, even adding a rug, can transform dull to dreamy and outdated to outstanding. Take a look at these Atlanta kitchens for ways to wow and read top tips from the design teams that added some flavor to the spaces!
Photography by (bottom left, top right) David Cannon.
AFTER
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Designer Tip
e picy details
“Do your research on products! Spend time flipping through magazines and hang the pages of images you like in your current kitchen to see how you like the look of them. Mix styles and get creative.” —Katie Fox, owner/designer of Hart & Lock Design
BEFORE
AFTER
Ceiling: This unexpected feature was created with a custom gray stain, washed over a blue stain that was on the beams and v-groove.
Faucets: The kitchen features a ROHL pullout kitchen faucet, while the bar shows off the ROHL single-hole bar faucet. www.rohlhome.com
Lighting: The look of the kitchen is eclectic yet timeless, which was achieved with the help of oversize seeded globe pendants from Hart & Lock Design. www.hartandlock.com
Vent hood: This one-of-a-kind vent hood was custom made from oxidized steel and white oak.
Backsplash: Taking the backsplash up the whole wall makes a more impactful, finished look, says Katie Fox. She created a geometric pattern with Legno Diamante Travertine wall tiles. www.tileshop.com
Refrigerator: The homeowner had the old fridge replaced with this Sub-Zero number. www.subzero-wolf.com Countertops: Fox upped the wow factor with Aria Stone Gallery Audacia Honed Quartzite countertops in a white hue to create an interesting and practical impact. www.ariastonegallery.com
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Designer Tip
“Using two cabinet colors in a kitchen creates a great opportunity for contrast and visual interest.” —Heather Shuster, senior project developer at Alair Homes Decatur
AFTER
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BEFORE
the spicy details Cabinets: To create a modern layout and color scheme, the designer mixed white cabinets with stained wood ones — combining contemporary neutrals with warm undertones. “This feature simultaneously allows the homeowner to add any color with accessories, as trends and styles change,” says Heather Shuster. www.alairhomes.com Pullout shelves: Shelves can look sleek from the outside and sharp on the inside. Storing knives in an in-drawer organizer will keep your countertops clean, provide a safer spot for storage, and potentially keep the blades on point.
AFTER
Photography by (after) Jeff Herr Photography.
Countertops: The counters are LG Viatera quartz, a product that resists stains, fading, burns and etching. “Quartz countertops have become our clients’ preference for their durability, fantastic colors and patterns,” Shuster says. www.lgviaterausa.com Faucet: The Solna faucet by Brizo® is sleek with a hidden pull-down function. www.brizo.com Backsplash: The modern backsplash was created with Ann Sacks’ Savoy collection in cottonwood, as a herringbone install. www.annsacks.com
39 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Putting cleaner water within reach. That’s
©2021 Elkay Manufacturing coMpany
The ezH2O LivTM Built-in Filtered Water Dispenser Unrivaled filtration for lead- and chlorine-reduced water, instantly.
elkay.com/ezH2O-liv
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AFTER
the spicy details
Painted cabinets: The custom cabinetry was created to reflect the light, happy feel of the kitchen. They were painted in a color similar to Sherwin-Williams Aqueduct SW 6758. www.sherwin-williams.com Lighting: The clients already owned the lighting, which helped keep the budget on target.
BEFORE
Photography by (after) Sarah Dorio.
Designer Details BEFORE
“We relocated this Virginia-Highland bungalow’s kitchen from the rear of the house to a central portion of the residence. We were able to get them a larger and more functional kitchen, and convert the previously used space to a laundry/mudroom.” —Niki Papadopoulos, lead interior designer and partner at Mark Williams Design Associates
Backsplash: Traditions in Tile and Stone provided the glass mosaic tiles, which helped pick up the light from an adjacent window. www.traditionsintile.com Flooring: Don’t let the flooring fool you — it’s painted! The design team wanted to create an airy kitchen, so they painted the floor a lighter color and used white countertops to capitalize on streaming sunshine from the breakfast area. www.markwilliams-design.com Countertops: “An easy way to update a kitchen, without a fullblown renovation, is new countertops,” says Niki Papadopoulos. In this case, Caesarstone, a quartz composite product known for its durability, was chosen. www.caesarstoneus.com Refrigerator: This stainless steel KitchenAid fridge lets the teal hue be the star. www.kitchenaid.com
41 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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From Kitchens…to Bathrooms…to Poolside… Hire a NARI Atlanta Member
NARI Atlanta – Connecting Homeowners and Remodeling Experts
PREMIER SPONSORS
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Designer Tip
“I loved that this client was interested in unique finishes and the artistry of local craftspeople. He pulled inspiration from places he loved around town. Unique materials and thoughtful design pulled the look together.” —Gina Sims, owner and principal designer of Gina Sims Designs
e picy details
AFTER
Lighting: The kitchen was transformed into a masculine, sleek space with these dramatic geometric pendants from Circa Lighting, as well as directional lighting over the open shelves from Rejuvenation. www.circalighting.com, www.rejuvenation.com Vent hood: The centerpiece of the kitchen is the custom range hood, designed with modern lines and created with materials that offer a cool patina, from Saint Udio metal shop in Athens, Georgia. www.saintudio.us
Photography by (after) Cati Teague Photography.
Cabinets: Modern textured melamine slab cabinets from Dove Studio Kitchen & Bath were adorned with black matte tab pulls. www.dovestudio.com Shelving: Fred Martin Welding Co., Inc. created the kitchen’s custom raw iron shelves, as well as bar shelves and a wine rack that Gina Sims designed. www.fredmartinwelding.webs.com Countertops: The Caesarstone Statuario Maximus™quartz on the countertops and slab backsplash creates a fresh look and is easy to maintain. www.caesarstoneus.com Refrigerator: The client is very tall and therefore needed an extra-tall Viking refrigerator. www.vikingrange.com
BEFORE
Windows: “We repainted the house white, took out the country beadboard, replaced it with modern shiplap and painted the window sashes black to mimic the look of steel and keep the feel modern industrial,” says Sims. www.ginasimsdesigns.com
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the spicy details Under-cabinet lighting is a great way to make a kitchen more functional and beautiful all at once. This kitchen utilized premium bar lighting that can be installed by anyone, without any required tools or electrical work, through the BLACK+DECKER PureOptics LED Tool-Free Under Cabinet Lighting. “Lighting, specifically under-cabinet lighting, changes the look of a space by providing a ‘finishing touch’ to complete the room. It instantly provides warmth and ambiance, and it makes any countertop or backsplash look brilliant,” says Kalen Buchanio, marketing manager at Amax Incorporated, PureOptics LED by BLACK+DECKER. www.pureopticsled.com
AFTER
Organization can be beautiful, and pullout shelving and pantries can offer that beauty throughout any kitchen. This focus on accessible storage can be vital for smaller kitchens or those with big families who are using the kitchen all the time. ShelfGenie, the company that created these pullout shelves, customizes their work depending on the needs of clients. For example, if stored items are tall (like cooking oil bottles or cereal boxes), the pullout shelves need to have enough height to prevent them from falling over. The company can also put in adjustable dividers to organize the items within the shelf. “Another popular storage solution is our premium custom spice racks, which clients love,” says Julie VanLeuven, owner of ShelfGenie of Atlanta. www.shelfgenie.com/atlanta
AFTER
BEFORE
Photos courtesy of (top) BLACK+DECKER PureOptics LED, photography by Indermaur Media, Inc.; (bottom) ShelfGenie.
BEFORE
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Easy Cajun Barbecue Rotisserie Chicken INGREDIENTS: • 1 plain rotisserie chicken, cut in parts • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning • Sea salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • ½ cup barbecue sauce • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • Juice of 1 lime • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes • Dash or two of Louisiana hot sauce • 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
DIRECTIONS: In a skillet on medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add barbecue and Worcestershire sauces, lime juice, red pepper flakes, oregano, Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add the pieces of rotisserie chicken to the skillet, make sure all of the pieces are covered in the sauce and let simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes.
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This Easy Cajun Barbecue Rotisserie Chicken recipe was submitted by Lisa M. Washington, creator of the culinary blog, Set The Table with Love. She was also a season two finalist of Food Network’s “All-Star Academy” and Best Self Atlanta's 2017 Over 40 & Fabulous! contest winner. For more of Lisa's delicious dishes, check out www.instagram.com/lifewithlisawashington.
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Garnish chicken with thyme, serve with rice or mashed potatoes.
5/23/17
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ATLANTA’S
TOP RATED
REMODELER
AFTER •2020•
Turn your dated kitchen into a stunning space The team at SDR recently completed another stunning kitchen remodel in East Cobb. Designers Princess Thompson & Lori Shedlock took a dated kitchen and updated it to a more upscale, modern space while still keeping BEFORE the traditional feel of the rest of the home. They added 60” wall cabinets with 6” crown and riser to the ceiling, plus a focal point tile wall with a large stainless hood. All above a 48” range to give the kitchen a grand and spacious feel. Princess and Lori also included a large functional island with a microwave drawer and plenty of additional storage space. The island serves as a perfect serving space when entertaining, or a place where family can congregate when everyone is at home. They tied everything together with details like accent lighting above the sink, pendant lighting above the island, as well as panels on the front of the refrigerator to match the rest of the cabinetry. Southern Design and Remodeling is an award-winning, full-service remodeling company specializing in full kitchen remodels. Visit their extensive showroom in the heart of East Cobb.
W W W. S D R AT L A N TA . C O M | 7 7 0 - 3 2 1 - 8 6 6 9
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“Having been in our 40 year old home for over 17 years, we have done many updates. I have to say that SDR was the greatest one to work with! Everyone on TEAM SDR worked so well together, from design, planning and execution. I now have my dream living area and kitchen.” - Satisfied Homeowner
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Photos courtesy of Hearth and Haven Design, photography by Antoine Stephenson.
Farmhouse Chic
Comfort, character and closeness take center stage with this popular design style By Alexandra McCray When we think of farmhouse style, several images may come to mind. For many, the first may be the neutral interiors created by Joanna Gaines of HGTV “Fixer Upper” fame, who introduced a modern version of this style to the world. Others may recall memories of the cozy and colorful countryside home of their grandparents or great-grandparents. Whatever décor we associate with the countless variations of this design approach, one thing is the same — they all focus on inviting spaces built for gathering and comfortable living. See how local interior designers and custom homebuilders achieved just that for their clients with these farmhouse-inspired projects.
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Subtle and Sleek As part of a complete renovation of this 7,500-square-foot home in Gainesville, Georgia, by Hearth and Haven Design, this kitchen was transformed with soft, modern farmhouse elements. Shaker-style cabinets were used, and warmth was added with wood accents like the floating shelves and vent hood with wood trim by Chris Lund Studios. Industrial pendant lights over the island and structured gold hardware provide a contemporary touch. The minimalistic lighting was carried into the library, as was the black-and-white theme inside and outside the home. Details: Light fixtures by Capital Lighting Fixture Company, interior and exterior paint is White Dove OC-17 by Benjamin Moore, exterior trim and window paint is Tricorn Black SW 2658 by Sherwin-Williams, cabinet finishing by Hearth and Haven Design. www.hearthandhavendesign.com
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Photos courtesy of Chathambilt.
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Photos courtesy of Hearth & Haven Design
Everyday Glamour Using their luxury-farmhouse-living lens, Chathambilt Homes took this Southern Living show home plan in Woodstock and made it their own. The team adored the wraparound front porch and oversized fireplace and wanted to create areas inside that also encouraged togetherness. Airiness was achieved with a light color palette reflected in the marble countertops and stain of the white oak floors, as well as the addition of windows throughout, including those above the kitchen sink. Natural elements such as the cedar beams add to the farmhouse feel. Details: Natural stone was laid in an ashlar pattern on the outdoor fireplace, island pendant lights by Millennium Lighting, bathroom floor and shower tile is Volakas marble, bookcase paint is Naval SW 6244 by Sherwin-Williams (appears lighter in image), bedroom paint is Passive SW 7064 by Sherwin-Williams. www.chathamlegacy.com
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A Warm Welcome Charming details allow this modern farmhouse presented by America’s Best House Plans (designed by Royal Oaks Design) to stand out from the crowd. Brick highlights break up the white horizontal siding without taking away from the farmhouse essence. Style favorites such as the black window casings and awnings are enhanced with wooden window boxes perfect for an easy-to-access herb garden to complement home-cooked meals. Finally, a stone perimeter skirt anchors the exterior and helps the eye transition from the house to the front yard. Details: Exterior materials include white painted brick, HardiePlank® lap siding, and stone. www.houseplans.net Photo courtesy of HousePlans.net, designed by Royal Oaks Design.
Photo courtesy of Sheehan Homes, photography by Jeff Herr.
52 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Farming with a Modern Twist This Sandy Springs renovation by Sheehan Built Homes presents an updated take on farmhouse style with traditional elements like white, board and batten siding played alongside more timely elements such as the rough cut stone and floor-to-ceiling windows. The corrugated metal roofing and dual fireplaces in the main living space nod to the style’s old roots. Details: The custom gas lanterns and a steel I-beam frame the front entry to draw the eye and create a sense of invitation. www.sheehanbuilthomes.com
53 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Photo courtesy of Allen Patterson Builders, photography by Tristan Shaffer of Hilton Head Island Imagery.
For the Love of Outdoor Living In true farmhouse fashion, a massive 1,133-square-foot wraparound porch is the star of the exterior of this home by Allen Patterson Builders located in a Southern Living- and Coastal Living-inspired community. Because the porch is so low to the ground, the need for railings was eliminated — giving onlookers an unobstructed view of the outdoor living space. The metal awning pays homage to the sturdiness of old-school farmhouses, while 6-inch HardiePlank® lap siding on the house provides 21st-century weather resistance. Details: Siding color is Extra White SW 7006 by Sherwin-Williams, door color is Classic French Gray SW 0077 by Sherwin-Williams, lanterns are Bianca 4-Light Sconce in Hazelnut Bronze by ELK Lighting. www.allenpattersonbuilders.com
55 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Photo courtesy of Renew Properties LLC, photography by Kelley Klein Photography.
Total Transformation It’s hard to imagine, but this Milton house was once painted a shocking shade of green. As soon as the team at Renew Properties got their hands on it, a comprehensive makeover followed to give it farmhouse flair. The home’s rectangular shape was visually enhanced with the addition of a front porch featuring exposed rafters and gray-stained, tongue-and-groove flooring. Stucco was traded for board and batten siding, while new white windows and the wooden front door help tie together the updated take on a traditional farmhouse. Details: Exterior color is White Dove OC-17 by Benjamin Moore. www.renewpropertiesllc.com
57 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Photos courtesy of Nandina Home & Design, photography by Shelly Marshall Schmidt.
Down Under Farmhouse Style For an equestrian couple, designers Susan Victor and Sue Shannon of Nandina Home & Design wanted to create an Australian farmhouse aesthetic that was extremely livable. The pair used wide plank floors, items with a rougher finish like the custom island made with reclaimed lumber, and easy-tocare-for fabrics to make it happen. White walls and blackand-white art add to a clutter-free appearance and serve as the perfect backdrop for bright colors to pop in every room. Details: Barstools by Four Hands, dining table light fixture is Currey & Company Eufaula Rectangular Chandelier, master bedroom chandelier is Robert Abbey Rico Espinet Candelaria Chandelier, horse photograph by Shelly Marshall Schmidt. www.nandinahome.com
59 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Creating Amazing Outdoor Spaces and Night Fantasies!
We create beautiful pools, hardscapes, outdoor kitchens, stone patios, fireplaces and landscapes that take the homeowner on vacation everyday!
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www.specialtypoolandspa.com 046-064_0921_Farm House.indd 60
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Photo courtesy of Interior Designs by S&S, photography by Scott Johnson.
Country Meets Contemporary Before working with Interior Design by S&S, the owner of this bungalow in the Cascade Heights area of Atlanta favored traditional style. Sharon Falcher and Sherica Maynard were able to nudge her toward transitional farmhouse, which paired well with the home’s vaulted ceilings. The duo used pieces with updated farmhouse features such as the clean-lined chandelier and dining table chairs with lattice woodwork to achieve the look. A lighter finish on the laundry room barn door reduces its rustic feel and flows well with the space. Details: Chandelier by Uttermost, rug by Surya. www.interiordesignbysns.com
61 September/October 2021 My Home Improvement AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Find Your Farmhouse Style
Farmhouse style is everywhere these days, and with good reason. This popular approach pairs well with various design styles, meaning you can take it in just about any direction your heart desires. If you’re unsure which type of farmhouse style you’re drawn to, take this quick quiz, which we put together with input from Hearth and Haven Design, Chathambilt Homes, Interior Design by S&S, Nandina Home & Design and Elise Forness Designs, to find out which of the four main options appeals to you. Circle the answer that suits you best, then see how many A’s, B’s, C’s, and D’s you got to find your farmhouse style. Would you prefer the hardware in your kitchen be…? a. Detailed and slightly luxurious b. Simple and sophisticated c. Handcrafted with a few imperfections d. Timeless What color palette would you use throughout a space? a. Tan and other soft neutrals b. Black and white c. Colors found in nature d. Warm and muted When decorating a shelf or bookcase, which of the following looks would you go for? a. Orderly with an effortless feel b. Streamlined yet interesting c. Layered with rich detail d. Classic with seasonal or personal touches A barn door in your home would be… a. Slightly rustic b. Black with glass panes c. Made from reclaimed wood d. New with contemporary accents You need to reframe a picture. The frame you choose has… a. Traditional lines b. Rustic wood c. A sentimental saying d. A minimalist feel
Mostly A’s — European Farmhouse Approachable elegance is what you’re after. Intertwine traditional pieces such as cabinets that resemble furniture with items or features that have a rougher/worn look and feel. Look for candelabralike light fixtures with reclaimed metal or wood. Choose raw wood over stained, add masonry work and consider a stone fireplace. Mostly B’s — Modern Farmhouse Black, white and gray are this style’s trademark colors. It is also famous for its minimalist approach to décor and clutter-free look. Keep your rooms bright and airy, and anchor them with classic farmhouse elements like shiplap and light rustic touches, then add modern finishes, metals and textures to create high visual contrast. Mostly C’s — Traditional Farmhouse You prefer a space full of detail and texture that radiates warmth. Add character by showcasing antiques, older artwork and hand-me-downs that may have been repainted with chalk paint, which gives them new life but maintains a slightly distressed look. Depending on how rustic you want to go, include elements like dried flowers, chicken wire and light fixtures with wood and metal. Mostly D’s — Transitional Farmhouse Much like the traditional take, a transitional approach to farmhouse celebrates older elements and evokes coziness. However, it puts a fresh spin on it all. Achieve this look by opting for a more current and playful color palette and wood finishes that are less rustic. Incorporate clean lines such as exposed beams or vaulted ceilings and avoid a feeling of stuffiness.
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