M A R C H 2 02 1
TH E HOMES I SSU E
When the world changes, rely on us We can provide customized, comprehensive advice and guidance to help you stay on track and pursue your goals. Call me to talk it through. The Eveland Group Jeffrey W. Eveland, CFP®, CRPC®, CPFA Managing Director Wealth Management Advisor 703.779.2130 j_eveland@ml.com
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 3 South King Street Leesburg, VA 20175 fa.ml.com/evelandgroup
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products:
Are Not FDIC Insured
Are Not Bank Guaranteed
May Lose Value
The Bull Symbol is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in the U.S. CRPC® is a registered service mark of the College for Financial Planning. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. MAP3016351 | AD-12-20-0697 | 472522PM-0520 | 12/2020
Loudoun Now 2020 Winner Favorite Home Builder and Favorite Construction Company
Best of Loudoun 2020 Winner Top 3 for Best Builder/Construction Company
LoudounNow
2020
610 E. Main St., Suite 200 Purcellville, VA 20132
W I N N E R
www.MatthewBoweDesignBuild.com | 540-338-8242
FAVORITE
LOUDOUN’S
Additions • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Basements • Outdoor Living Spaces • New Homes 703.641.9800 | michael-nash.com 8630A Lee Hwy, Fairfax, VA 22031 Serving Northern Virginia Only A Michael Nash Company
LIFESTYLE LETTER
MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER
Hann Livingston | hann.livingston@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Welcome Home! IT’S THE KIND OF GREETING YOU USUALLY RESERVE FOR HOLIDAYS LIKE THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS (LIKE MONICA WEISS WHO THINKS OF HER HOME IN HAMILTON AS “THE THANKSGIVING HOUSE.”) But, by late summer, according to a segment by PBS NewsHour in December of last year, most (yes,
Melinda Gipson | melinda.gipson@lifestylepubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGER
Suzanne Otwell | suzanne.otwell@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER
Kelsey Proctor
more than 50%) of millennials aged 24-39, were living with their parents! So, no, Virginia, you are not alone! In part, this was simply the impact of coping with a pandemic that caused many younger career professionals to lose their jobs. Many wanted to take care of their parents in a time of crisis. And, for some, it just felt like the right place to be. Among the trends you’ll see emerging from this reverse migration are an exodus from cities like New York and Los Angeles; an increasing number of home-buyers searching for larger, multi-generational homes; and, just possibly, a renaissance in home-based businesses. At the same time, our own community is generously seeking creative ways to make sure no one goes homeless. By the end of 2020, Loudoun Cares and Catholic Charities had dispensed nearly $1 million in rental assistance and other aid from the county and grants from those like The Community Foundation and 100 Women Strong to
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
keep 500+ families in their homes. Charities like Loudoun Habitat for Humanity and
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
this month’s profile, HeroHomes, stepped up their game. And even an association of
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
tradesmen in the business of renovation donated cash when they couldn’t physically
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
help renovate homes or build additions for those in need.
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Those who can work from home are, and are using newfound income saved from commuting and wardrobe costs to create the kinds of exquisite spaces they've only imagined. We’re here to help you find the right resource for the job. So, pull up a (new, auto-reclining, leather) chair from The Guest Room Furniture, and
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
explore a host of ideas you can explore to make your house a great place to live.
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN
Melinda Gipson, Editorial Coordinator
MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
ON THE COVER A very-Virginia carriage house designed and built by Matthew Bowe Design/Build
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTY KOSNIC 8
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
Proverbs 3:5-6 Leesburg Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Leesburg areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Leesburg Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
DESIGNED BY N AT U R E PRESENTED WITH EXCELLENCE
SKY MARBLE & GRANITE GIVING THANKS
kitchen counter tops | bathroom vanity tops | fireplace surround | outside bar counter tops granite | marble | quartzite | quartz | dekton | porcelain
*a place family gathering, *a place of serenity and relaxation, *a place to commune with nature
571.926.8085 | SALES@SKY-MARBLE.COM 21592 Atlantic Blvd. #120 Sterling, VA 20166 facebook.com/skymarbleandgranite | pinterest.com/skymarble | instagram : sky.marble
w w w. s k y - m a r b l e . c o m
INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021
FEATURES 20 The Guest Room Furniture & Design: Exceptional Quality & Timeless Design
26 Exquisite Spaces... And the Family of Craftsmen Who Create Them
30 Mural Blends Virginia and Family History Weiss House Dreamscape 'Like Walking into Narnia'
30 20
52 HeroHomes Makes Loudoun Home To Disabled Vets Houses, Jobs, Community For Those Who Fought for Freedom
52
26
DEPARTMENTS 8
Lifestyle Letter
12
Local’s Choice
16
Hometown Hero
20 Inspired By 26 Locally Owned 42 Open House 48 Trend Setter 52 Local Limelight
LOCAL’S CHOICE
THE
E AT M E N T S A R E R T RIGHT WINDOW ISHING TOUCH N I F THE
LET 3 DAY BLINDS BRING THE SHOWROOM TO YOUR HOME
“WE ARE MORE THAN SIMPLY BLINDS,” SAYS
“Trending right now are neutral palettes, clean lines and
CHAD HARMON. Chad, a design consultant for 3 day
simplicity. Motorized roller shades connected with Alexa
blinds, offers his advice and tips for shopping for new
and Google Home bring the convenience of being able to
window treatments.
close the shades simply by saying, ‘Hey, Alexa, drop the
The right window treatment can make all the difference when designing a room and is the finishing touch that
shades,’” says Chad. “Rollers also give people a clean look with the option of privacy or blackout.”
can pull a room’s design together. Styles certainly have
“Choosing window treatments can be overwhelming
changed over the years, and largely gone are the boring
with the many selections of styles and fabric choices,”
mini and roller blinds in every room of the home. 3 Day
says Chad. “During the free in-home consultation, my job
Blinds shows that a blend of styles and colors can work
is to guide the client toward what makes sense for them,
together in the same home serving as function and form.
whether it is blinds, shades, drapes or shutters. I do that by
LET 3 DAY BLINDS BRING THE SHOWROOM TO YOUR HOME ARTICLE RHONDA STEPHENS
12
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
“DURING THE FREE I N - H O M E C O N S U LTAT I O N , MY JOB IS TO GUIDE THE C L I EN T TOWA R D W H AT M A K E S S E N S E F O R T H E M .”
meeting with clients at their home or office to go over their desires and goals. We evaluate the space by using factors such as the desire for privacy and temperature control combined with aesthetics to achieve whatever look they are going for. Next comes the fun part of showing the samples, fabrics and shades. It is much easier for a client to visualize the look that way. After a selection is made, we will schedule the installation, and I follow up with the client making certain they are happy with the process.” Chad continues, “3 Day Blinds has been in business for more than 40 years. We manufacture our own product and can take care of installation, so we stand behind our work. Our longevity speaks to the satisfaction of our clients and the word-of-mouth recommendations that we receive each day.” “Whether you have one window or 100, 3 Day Blinds is happy to help you find the perfect window treatments for your space,” says Chad. “We can do a few windows or many windows. Nothing is out of the question. People may be intimidated because they think it’s going to cost so much. However, we have budget-friendly products that are beautiful, high quality, and will not break the bank.” “One thing that sets us apart is that every time we go into a client’s home, we make it an experience. We want to make it fun and exciting while choosing something that fits the client’s personality. It’s a total experience from start to finish,” says District Sales Manager Lindsay Namendorf. Chad agrees, “That truly sets us apart. In addition to the fact that we build beautiful products, we provide exceptional service and an overall experience for the client.” 3DayOffer551.com
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
13
CUSTOM BLINDS, SHADES, SHUTTERS & DRAPERY
Buy One Get One 50% OFF* on custom blinds, shades and drapery
Call to Schedule Your FREE In-Home Design Consultation
1-571-800-8995 or visit www.3dayoffer551.com
*Offer valid on 3 Day Blinds brand products only, excluding shutters and special orders. Buy 1 qualifying window covering and receive the 2nd qualifying window covering of equal or lesser value at 50% off! Offer excludes installation, sales tax, shipping and handling. Not valid on previous purchases or with any other offer or discount. Offer Code BGXB. Expires 06/30/21. 3 Day Blinds LLC has the following licenses: AZ ROC 321056, CA #1005986, CT HIC.0644950, NJ #13VH09390200, OR #209181, PA #PA107656, WA #3DAYBDB842KS, Nassau County, NY Home Improvement License H01073101, Rockland County, NY #H-12401-34-00-00, VA#2705172678 (Licensed through Great Windows Services, LLC). © 2021 3 Day Blinds LLC.
HOMETOWN HERO ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY MELINDA GIPSON
LOUDOUN COUNTY’S HOUSING MARKET IS SO HOT, WE THOUGHT WE SHOULD TAP TWO OF THE AREA’S TOP LUXURY HOME REALTORS – DEBBIE MEIGHAN OF WASHINGTON FINE PROPERTIES AND PETER LEONARD-MORGAN OF HUNT COUNTRY SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY – TO FIND OUT HOW LONG THIS CAN LAST AND WHAT, IF ANYTHING, YOU SHOULD DO IF YOU WANT TO SELL YOUR HOME IN THE NEXT YEAR. For our full, video interview, see https://vimeo.com/leesburglifestyle. WHY IS THE MARKET SO OVER-HEATED?
TWO TOP REALTORS SHARE THEIR ADVICE
Buying or Selling a Home i n T o d ay ' s Hot Market
Peter: Folks have been coming out of cities wanting to buy bigger properties with more land, together with low interest rates. Debbie: I recently saw a chart showing the months of inventory on the market and it is at 3-1/2 months of supply. That is the lowest rate of inventory we’ve had since they started keeping records. That’s really what’s been driving the market: low interest rates, low inventory and high buyer demand. WHAT IMPACT IS THIS HAVING ON HOME PRICES? Peter: Home prices have gone up substantially. I was talking to some clients I bought a property for last January and at the time we thought we got the right price. They’re really jumping for joy because their price would be probably 20% more today. Debbie: I think most people are probably seeing maybe a 10% increase over their market price, but it’s just a classic supply and demand problem. People are willing to pay more to get more. We often seen multiple offers on properties. WHAT PARTS OF THE COUNTY ARE GROWING THE FASTEST? Debbie: We’re seeing a lot of very strong demand in Middleburg. It has the cachet of having that address and there’s nothing for sale in Middleburg right now, so people are starting to look a little bit further out.
16
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Debbie
Peter: I’ve seen quite a bit in Fauquier County as well, just over the border from Middleburg, in Marshall/Orlean. People are loving the fact they can buy a bit more acreage there, and [these areas have] such a good reputation for conservancy and not over developing. Debbie: Even into Clarke and Rappahannock –I mean it’s really quite astonishing. SO, WHAT ARE PEOPLE LOOKING FOR? Peter: In a nutshell, acreage. I just recently bought a property for a couple from New York City. They moved to a lovely property in Orlean. They are just so happy to be able to get out and not have to wear a mask and hold hands and walk around in the countryside. Debbie: We’re also finding that people are looking for pools and multi-generational living because some children have come home and you don’t know how long they’ll stay. People are working from home so they want more office space and they want Internet. IF I’M THINKING ABOUT SELLING MY HOUSE, WHAT SHOULD I DO TO MAKE IT SELL FASTER? Debbie: The first thing you should do is call me! Seriously, the first thing you should do is contact your professional Realtor so that they can guide you as to what is the best thing for your particular property. Decluttering is always good. Peter: Even though we’re in a hot market it’s still important to make it look great because there’s still competition and you still want to try and get the best value for your client. If you need to paint it inside, or to re-do your carpet – a bit of staging can help that deal happen quicker and get closer to your asking price Reach Debbie at debbie.meighan@wfp.com or on Instagram as DebbieMeighanRealtor and Peter at
Peter
peterleonard-morgan@hcsir.com or on Instagram at peterleonardmorgan.realtor. CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
17
CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
703-793-8307
LEESBURG LOCATION NOW OPEN! 213 Crescent Station Terrace SE, Leesburg, VA 20175 2465-J21 Centreville RD, Herndon, VA 20171
www.VirginiaKitchenandBath.com
Falcons Landing is delighted to announce the opening
settle for
of our first Terrace Home! With the best features of apartment and cottage living, The Terrace Homes offer a new take on Independent Living for military officers who have honorably served and senior level federal employees. No matter how you spend your days, Falcons Landing gives you the freedom to enjoy all of the activities that define who you are. Only four remain in the first Terrace Home! Call us now to learn more.
ACT FAST! CALL (703) 783-2516 BEFORE THE LAST 10 APARTMENTS ARE RESERVED! www.FalconsLanding.org Falcons Landing is proud to be a non-profit Life Plan Community.
INSPIRED BY
EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY & TIMELESS DESIGN
The Guest Room Furniture & Design: ARTICLE MELINDA GIPSON PHOTOGRAPHY CELESTE LINTHICUM
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR MORE THAN FURNITURE – PERHAPS SOME HELP IN DESIGNING LIVING AREAS THAT SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE – START AT THE GUEST ROOM FURNITURE IN LEESBURG. Mother-Daughter team Debbie Mattens and Stefanie Powell are joined by full-time designer Christina Coffman, forging an experienced trio of experts who can help you select from not just furniture, but thousands of upholstery and window treatment samples, and custom pillows to match your décor. For Debbie, the design process begins with one question, whether it’s a refresh or a new home that requires their expertise: “What do you want to keep?” Most families have pieces they’ve either grown up with or acquired on special occasions, so the first step is to determine what’s staying and then work around that. Stefanie agrees, saying it’s not her place to dictate style, but rather to help her clients bring a vision to life based on their personal taste. “What makes them a family? We want them to feel like it’s been their home for years and we’re just adding to their story.” Her goal as a designer is to bring people together through creating environments that everyone can enjoy. An artist, she has created custom artwork to accent a room or highlight customers’ interests – even contracted for custom dog beds that help to make rooms where the whole family can gather.
20
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
CONTINUED >
Stefanie Powell, Debbie Mattens, Connie Doermann, and Christina Coffman Make The Guest Room Like Family
“We wa nt them to feel l i ke it ’s been thei r home for yea rs a nd we’re just add i ng to thei r stor y.”
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
21
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED) A Dissected Historical Map of Loudoun Graces The Guest Room's Entryway
Their clientele ranges widely: from growing families investing in quality pieces that will stand the test of time, to those with older homes in need of a refresh. Noting one growing trend, Debbie said, “We’re finding a lot of people in my generation who have retired and moved out of the area that are now moving back to be close to their grandchildren.” The latter often start entirely new, decorating to suit the next generation. One of the first things they’ll share is, “Will this hold up to my five grandchildren?” Stefanie adds, “...or their pets!” For both ends of the spectrum, high-performance fabrics that are petproof, kid-proof and even spouse-proof are all the rage. Design projects often come full circle. Because Stefanie and Christina have assisted in furnishing homes for both parents and their children, they are especially gratified to recognize pieces that have been revitalized and passed on from one generation to the next. Stefanie uses words like “heritage” and “legacy” to describe a décor that blends the old with the new to create a warm, welcoming embrace. When it comes to giving new life to much-loved heirlooms, their reupholstery team is an invaluable resource. Based in Leesburg, they’ve refurbished hundreds of pieces for The Guest Room over the years for their clients of all ages. After nearly 25 years in the industry, The Guest Room has a select portfolio of well-crafted, American-made brands. Their carefully curated lineup of vendors provide not just exceptional quality but excellent customer service. Many will even create custom pieces based off their client’s vision, including not only casegoods, but custom window cornices and draperies. Local vendors assist the designers in fabricating coordinating pillows, blankets, and various decorative accents including wall hangings. The store’s new Leesburg location in the Shops at Dodona Manor leverages the character of a 100-year-old building with the charm of exposed wood beams, original wood flooring and plenty of natural light from the front windows. After taking a stroll through, you are sure to feel inspired for your next home project, whether it’s freshening up a space with their wide assortment of accessories or perusing their selection of fabrics and rug samples. No matter the scope of your project, the entire team at The Guest Room will make you feel right at home. Visit online at https://www.theguestroomfurniture.com/, or stop by the new showroom at 312 E. Market St., suite D in Leesburg.
22
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
capturing special times FA M I LY A N D S E N I O R P O RT R A I T S
capturing special times
F A M I L Y A N D S E N I O R P O R T R A I TT SS
capturing special times FA M I LY A N D S E N I O R P O RT R A I T S
L E E S B U R G P H O T O G R A P H E R | 7 0 3 . 4 4 7. 2 2 3 8 C E L E S T E L I N T H I C U M P H O T O G R A P H Y. C O M
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
23
Wondering How to Prepare Your Teen for College? T HAT ' S WHAT WE D O. I T ' S A L L WE D O.
Call us today for personalized guidance by college admissions experts. Our initial discovery call is free. 703.940.5757 | creativecollegeconnections.com 109 S. King Street Suite C in Leesburg
TIME FOR SPRING CLEANING, LET AIVI HELP YOU DUST OFF YOUR ELECTRONICS WITH OUR FREE SECURITY ASSESSMENT. Commercial Services . Crash Bars . Systems Monitoring . Intercom/Telecom . IP Camera Installation . Audio/Visual Systems . Access Controls
. Maglocks . Electric Gates . Card/Fob Reader . Biometric . Conference Room Setup . And more!
Residential Services . TV mounts . Audio/Visual Systems . Smart Thermostat . Smart Lighting . Home Theater . Smart Home Design
. Home Security Camera Installations . Electric Gates . Garage Door Repair . Smart Locks . And more!
INFO@AIVIGLOBAL.COM | 240-918-2585 LIKE US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Integrative Nutrition Therapy with Lara Lattman » Weight loss through lifestyle change » Auto-Immune Diet » Anti-inflammatory Diet » Vegan or Vegetarian diet support
Feel Really Good About Eating Again Make an appointment today at 703-669-6118 116-Q Edwards Ferry Rd N.E., Leesburg, VA 20176
24
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
EXTRAORDINARY KITCHENS BY
I N T E R I O R S • R E N OVAT I O N S • F I N E F U R N I S H I N G S 120 E MARKET ST, SUITE D • LEESBURG • VIRGINIA • 20176 • PHONE • 703.625.3553
LOCALLY OWNED
EXQUISITE SPACES... REMEMBER TRAVEL? We’d go to
exotic places, bringing back art, sculpture and mementos of every shape and size. Once home, we’d then be challenged to find just the right way to display our finds. One such couple journeyed to Oaxaca Mexico where artisans specialize in pottery, metalwork and carving, using techniques dating back hundreds of years. Their find: A series of Barro Negro (“black clay”) tiles hand fired and sculpted in a stone kiln buried in the earth. The idea was to hang the tiles – somehow – in a small, downstairs powder room they wanted to remodel. They wanted this tiny space to somehow glow with the unique character of Oaxaca, and provide a place to display their treasure. Enter Lenny Berger of “HandyMensch Home
Remodeling,”
https://www.
handymensch.com/. Lenny doesn’t take large projects or build additions; his forte is in mid-sized remodeling jobs that present creative challenges to home-owners – those projects that fit between your neighborhood handyman and a large general contractor. His team includes an electrician, carpenter, plumber,
mason,
custom
cabinet-
maker, tile expert, painters, countertop technicians and more. Surprisingly, this tiny space, when combined with artisan-crafted artistic elements, drew upon the expertise of all of them. ARTICLE MELINDA GIPSON 26
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Making Clients' Dreams Come True
AND THE FAMILY OF CRAFTSMEN WHO CREATE THEM
BATHROOM Because the clay tiles are carved through the surface,
Lenny decided to mount them in a frame and backlight them. The finished piece would hang over the toilet and connect to a motion sensor so it would glow when someone entered the bathroom. To the side, a minimalist, floatThe wall behind the sink used variegated stone tile with a rough textured surface, offsetting an elaborately carved mirror that was first deep cleaned, painted with gray primer then two coats of metallic silver paint and then distressed with black metallic paint to create an antique patina complementing the tiles. While this sounds simple, a custom wood frame had to be designed to hold the clay tiles with the inside providing standoffs to allow for the routing of the back-lighting wire
to each piece. Luckily the tiles had small holes on each side
BATHROOM PROJECT
ing countertop supported a vessel sink with a shelf below.
Floating Sink
that could be used to attach to the back of the frame. To get the glow just right Lenny used metallic silver paint and LED strip lighting placed around the inside surface of each tile to get a consistent brightness. The result? A grand prize Contractor of the Year Award (CotY) in the “residential bath under $25,000” category from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry in the Metro DC area, awarded February 5. It’s no small honor as this local NARI chapter annually receives more than 100 award entries from its most accomplished members. Sharon Inetas of Sky Marble and Granite, sits on the association’s board of directors and on the awards committee, and has done several projects with Lenny. “NARI helps consumers to select good contractors and trade professionals,” she says. “It provides certification and education to make members more credible, and helps them keep up with new ideas and new technologies to help them run their businesses.” Sky Marble and Granite has itself won numerous awards, including a “Contractors Choice” CotY awarded by contractor members to a trade associate that has made a significant contribution to the group’s professionalism. This year, Sky Marble and Granite entered in both kitchen and bathroom categories, including a kitchen in which they partnered with Lenny. In this latter project, Lenny and his extended team were able to build something beautiful that delicately negoti... Even in Small Spaces
ated common ground between the traditional sensibilities of a husband and his more modern wife. (See photos.) CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
27
LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)
HandyMensch and Sky Marble and Granite Teamed on This CotY Entrant
In Sharon’s view, “We’re like a family. It’s these special relationships that make the real difference in our industry.” Her company couldn’t exist without the big jobs that come from large contractors like Toll Brothers, or from smaller craftsmen like Lenny who bring creativity and skill to every job, no matter how small. What makes a project notable enough for a CotY, Sharon says, are “the innovative ideas that you come up with to make someone’s dream a reality, and the obstacles that you overcome. For the remodelers, designers, tradespeople – that’s the beauty of this organization. We have an immense pride and passion and genuinely care about what we do.” Angela Hubbard, executive director of NARI Metro DC says that being a trusted resource means that all members adhere to the code of ethics posted on its website (https://narimetrodc.org/). “We take this very seriously.”
KITCHEN PROJECT
Finished Kitchen Blends Traditional and Modern Elements
The site is an effective resource for homeowners looking to remodel because it provides a searchable member directory broken down into locale and specialty to make it easy to find the right expert for any job. There’s even a tab on the website that lets homeowners put in details of their project that the association will forward to members who then reach out if they think the project is a good fit for them. And, unlike an Angie’s List or HomeAdvisor, members don’t pay to be recommended. Angela says, “What’s wonderful is when members can team up as Lenny has done with Sky Marble. They’re able to work together to problem solve for a client and come up with creative and beautiful solutions.”
One of NARI's Local ReBuild Together Teams
NARI Metro DC has renovated five houses through five different “Rebuild Together” groups in the last three years, for Make a Wish Foundation – working on home projects when travel wasn’t possible – and Dream On 3, which fulfills sportsrelated wishes for kids with chronic illnesses. It also supports the Alexandria Seaport Foundation’s apprenticeship program for at-risk youth, teaching them carpentry skills, life skills, and work skills. The 15-20 yearly graduates take internships with NARI members to select careers in the remodeling industry.
28
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Keeping Both the Mixmaster and Wine Lover Happy
GET INSPIRED
EAT + DRINK
18692 RIVERLOOK CT., LEESBURG SOLD for $2,850,000
157
Lives Changed in 2020
100% List to Sell Price
6 YEARS Top Producing Team Leesburg
What’s a Seller’s Market? Take a Look Around “When is the best time to sell my home?” is the most common question I’ve been asked in over 15 years as a Realtor®. The answer is when it’s right for your family, your future and your finances. But if you have time to wait, you want a seller’s market — like the one we’re in now.
SHOP LOCAL
Thanks to historic lows in both mortgage rates and listing inventory, today’s home sellers are in a strong position. It’s an age-old debate how many months of listing supply constitute a seller’s market — three, four, five? — but the current 0.4 months of supply in Loudoun County is well below any mark. The median Loudoun County listing spent just six days on the market in December, a 63% drop year-over-year. Sales prices rose nearly 6% to match. Mortgage rates have been falling for two years, culminating last summer in their first-ever dip below 3%. Lower rates equate to more spending power for homebuyers, which has driven the burst of real estate activity during an otherwise tumultuous time. So, while sellers reap the harvest of faster and more profitable sales, buyers will also continue to benefit as long as rates remain low. No one has a crystal ball to perfectly time the market, but the numbers don’t lie. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to sell your home, it doesn’t get much better than current conditions. What’s a seller’s market? Just take a look around.
Take advantage of this historic seller’s market, contact Jean Garrell for a confidential listing appointment.
JEAN GARRELL · REALTOR®
703.599.1178
City Lifestyle
Jean@GarrellGroup.com GarrellGroup.com
YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
29
Mura l Blends Virginia and Fa m i l y H i s t o r y ARTICLE MELINDA GIPSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PATRICIA TAYLOR HOLZ, MELINDA GIPSON
VIRGINIA Library Research into 1800s Virginia Lent Authenticity
30
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
WEISS HOUSE DREAMSCAPE 'LIKE WALKING INTO NARNIA'
“WE’RE
THE
THANKSGIVING
HOUSE,”
MONICA WEISS SAID, IN EXPLANATION FOYER FOR THE HOLIDAYS. In a search for something that would complement her antiques and resonate with the history of her 1823-built home in Hamilton, she dropped in at Paint & Paper in Purcellville in search of “wallpaper with a hunting theme.” Patricia Taylor Holz works there as a colorist
a list of things they wanted included in the mural.
and a new type of hunt began. When the pair
They wanted ponds, an oak tree. The owner is
failed to turn up anything suitable, the manager
a landscape architect, so very particular about
suggested, “Why don’t you paint it for her, Pat?”
trees, so I suggested a dogwood be added, as it
So began a month-long project to transform
is the state flower of Virginia.
the Weiss’ home lobby into a kind of historical,
“They wanted an equestrian theme, the vine-
hunt-country dreamscape – homage to a combi-
yard (the mural uses Bluemont Vineyard for its
nation of the family’s love of Virginia history, dogs,
rolling hills of vines), and the far wall boasts a
wine, water, woods and a good ramble.
painting of Morven Park Mansion. When we met
Says Patricia, “This is a dream landscape, com-
the owners’ dogs, we said, ‘We have to put these
posited together from our photographs. They had
cute dogs in there,’ so they shared photos, including some of their favorite dogs who had passed.” It turns out that Monica couldn’t have been in better hands. Patricia, besides being a color consultant, has been painting professionally for two decades, and has designed and painted sets for the theatre – experience that more than qualifies her to master perspective in a larger work—has done a number of community murals and shown her work widely in local galleries. But, because her deadline was just a month away, she called her friend and fellow artist Penny Hauffe to collaborate on the project. Both were classically trained in prestigious art schools ranging from the University of Michigan (Patricia) to the Gemini School of Illustration in the U.K. (Penny). Penny was born in Namibia, Patricia in the Caribbean, and both adore bright
Patricia Touches up Faux Finishing
colors drawn from their “warm” cultures, but for this project they drew on their unique ability to
H I S T O RY
OF WHY SHE WANTED TO SPRUCE UP HER
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
31
MURAL BLENDS VIRGINIA AND FAMILY HISTORY (CONTINUED)
paint to a very constrained palette, mimicking each other’s styles, to create the impression that the work was painted on parchment that had naturally aged. The hunt for reference photography began at the Thomas Balch Library, a history and genealogy library in Leesburg. Patricia found many photographs depicting how Virginia looked in the 19th century. This house was built in 1823, so this refined her search to when the home was built. They then created an antique impression, through the many sepia-toned photos, using a creamy hue to serve as the backdrop for splashes of color for the red from the hunter’s jacket, the white and brown of the dogs, the black of the boots, the pink of the dogwood, and the blue of the ponds. Having studied the old masters, she found a photo of a hunter from the 18th century that picked up a bit of color and that became the starting point for an elaborate blueprint. Equine photographer Deborah Morrow provided reference photos for the opening, winter scene with a woman riding sidesaddle and the fall scene with two fox-hunting parties. Because the family hailed originally from Pennsylvania she also looked at a lot of Andrew Wyeth’s landscapes to grasp a feel for natural finishes. Piece by piece the design took on the elements of an elaborate puzzle, which Patricia then took to Photoshop to make a composite that was to scale. She then did a drawing that was transferred to the wall with a projector. “Because I’m a set designer and took interior design, I learned to draft and make models and painter’s elevations to scale. When you make scenery, you have to bring the people to the front so that you can see everything to scale as well.” Penny had the idea to add the scrollwork at the top as a nod to Monica’s love for collecting old books, and the design was finished. As the painting began, the artists made a point of switching places in the same drawings so that their styles would commingle. Said Patricia, “We painted over each other’s layers,” added Penny, “And finished each other’s sentences!” Patricia explains that she took a sander to some of the shinier patinas on the horses’ flanks, for example, Penny and Patricia Paint Interchangeably to Finish On Time
32
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
to make the work look just a touch distressed as if by age. Quipped Penny, “I thought it was just
Finished Foyer
because you like to play with power tools!” Each drew on every bit of her classical training. Says Patricia, “I remembered this technique from the old masters using underpainting called grisaille where you do a whole underpainting in shades of just one color – in this case grey – and then you start taking it away. You sculpt the painting by taking the color away in places where you want the underpainting to show through. For example, I painted the horse black then sculpted the color back. The whole piece is base coated in shades of brown and black.” Penny comments that Patricia sometimes took the tactile nature of this technique to extremes, rubbing the wall with a rag or her sweatshirt to get the texture just right. The finished work is more of a museum installation that what you’d ordinarily think of as a mural. Patricia says, “It transformed the energy of the whole room. You kind of walk into Narnia when you walk in the door – you go somewhere else.” It’s certainly something you’d never find in a wallpaper catalog. Patricia agrees, adding, “It’s magical and special. It’s very much custom, and client specific, I wanted them to be part of the process so they had an emotional connection to it. That’s the difference between an artist and a designer. An artist expresses their inner world and a designer can
Said Monica, “It’s enchanting,” the way the mural
use the elements that are already there and make
captures everything about her home and “about us.
them into something else. We created something
We love Virginia and where we live, and of course
special and unique for the house. It’s an emotional
we love our dogs, both living and passed. Including
landscape that flows from winter in the front to a
them was the chicken soup for me. I just love it.”
warmer landscape in the back where there’s a canopy of flowers blooming in spring.”
The Weiss Mural was painted by Patricia Taylor Holz
And, it has to be said, they all had fun in the pro-
(http://pthvisualarts.com) & Penny Hauffe (http://
cess, and drew from their fellowship with the artist
pennypaint.com), Equine Photos by Deb Morrow
community to pull in artist Ute Gil toward the end
(http://www.deborahmorrowphotography.smug-
to paint detail and help with the final two coats
mug.com). You can reach Patricia at patotaylor1@
of mural varnish. As a tweak to the homeowner’s
yahoo.com, 610-551-2789 or through The Paint & Pa-
status as an Ohio State alumnus, Patricia even hid
per Place, 701 W Main St # C, Purcellville, VA 20132.
small pictures of “Brutus Buckeye” the OSU mascot,
Come in asking for wallpaper and expect to be sur-
and a wolverine to represent her rival alma matter
prised! See http://vimeo.com/leesburglifestyle for
the University of Michigan.
a video detailing the mural’s installation.
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
33
Looking for a little more certainty with your money? Contact us to discuss how we can help make the most of your finances.
Colleen Stutz* CLU®, ChFC®, LUTCF®, RICP® Principal Owner
cstutz@sonrisestrat.com 899a Harrison Street SE Leesburg, VA 20175-4033 703-403-3187
Colleen M. Stutz, Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency. *Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, A Registered Investment Adviser. SonRise Strategies, LLC is not
You’ve worked hard. Now, let your retirement savings work hard for you.
owned or operated by NYLIFE Securities LLC or its affiliates. NYLIFE Securities and Eagle Strategies are New York Life Insurance companies.
How Long Can a House be Home? Make sure your house will meet your needs through retirement with HomeSpan.
5572 La Vista Drive, Alexandria, Virginia • (703) 922-6540 • HomeSpan.com
PAIN DOESN’T STOP FOR QUARANTINE... DON’T LET IT STOP YOU. YOUR WELL-BEING IS ESSENTIAL Un-treated, stress can make your condition worsen, when a minor alignment or adjustment may be all you need to return to pain-free performance.
YOUR SAFETY IS IMPORTANT TO US Not only is our spa-like facility fully compliant in terms of safety and sanitation, but Dr. Misty Paul is an expert on how essential oils can improve your health naturally without side effects.
Scan the code with your phone for a 1-minute visit to our comfortable, spa-like treatment center, conveniently located in the Villages at Leesburg. 1509 Dodona Terrace Southeast in Leesburg Or call now for an appointment - (703) 777-2532 34
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Brighten Up Furniture • Interior Design • Window Treatments • Reupholstery (703) 771- 9484 • 312 E. Market St Suite D, Leesburg, VA 20176
HVAC with a personal touch. M ain te nan ce an d p ro j e c t wo rk d o n e ri g h t .
We offer Sales, Ser vice & Design on ever y thin g HVAC . Comm ercial an d Residential.
(703) 999-2587 // th ewayn em ccon chiecompany.com
LIFE IS UNPREDICTABLE. That’s why you need reliable, professional legal services. At Magner Law, we are available whenever our clients need us for consultation, advice and representation that they can depend on, whether it’s for themselves or their business.
Family Law, Estates, Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Civil Litigation
At MAGNER LAW, we handle your legal matters with an emphasis on dignity and discretion.
540-431-4400 | MAGNERLAW.COM
2019 CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
35
IS IT WO OD OR V I N Y L?
Designer Carpet Selection for Every Taste
Vinyl That Looks Like Wood
ONLY MATT ANGE MAY KNOW FOR SURE!
36
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Matt Displays Canadian Hardwood
ARTICLE MELINDA GIPSON PHOTOGRAPHY CELESTE LINTHICUM
Wood Flooring Impeccably Installed
BECAUSE LOUDOUN VALLEY FLOORS IS CEL-
as a medium to high-grade carpet, installed. So,
EBRATING ITS 30TH YEAR IN BUSINESS IN
you can get a high-grade wood visual at about half
LOUDOUN COUNTY, THEY’VE SEEN A LOT OF
the cost of what hard wood would cost you and it
FLOORING TRENDS COME AND GO. We sat
looks very similar,” Matt said.
down with one of the four partners, Matt Ange, in
Because customers are becoming more ecolog-
their massive Ashburn showroom to see what’s new
ically aware, Matt says, “I have to say that all the
for home owners.
major manufacturers are very green-conscious.
“The biggest growing trend would be luxury vinyl
Some of the hard-wood manufacturers that we deal
planks, most of them with hard wood visuals,” says
with in particular are vertically integrated. They own
Matt Ange. “They’re made on a waterproof platform
the forest of trees from which they make the floor.
so you can put a wood visual throughout your home –
They cut the trees from their property, or leased
whether it be in a bathroom, a basement, or a laundry
property; they kiln dry the wood, and the sawdust
room – and it’s waterproof! It’s very dent resistant,
and leftovers are used to fire their kilns so they’re
scratch resistant – it’s just a very durable floor, so it
using that product for energy. There’s no waste
checks all the boxes for the needs of most folks and
when they make their hardwood.”
it’s a nice warm look. If you put a wood visual in a
For carpeting, some manufacturers recycle old
bedroom or basement, it has a warmer look and feel
carpet to make new carpet. “PET Polyester is very
than carpet, and at half the price of wood flooring,” he
popular and that’s the same type of polyester that
adds. He believes it’s suitable for all areas in the home
they make the plastic water bottles out of,” Matt
and that today’s buyers like it because it’s dog friendly.
says. “It’s highly recyclable and can be recycled
Six or seven years ago, vinyl that looked like
many times over. Mohawk has a product where the
hardwood was a specialty product used primarily
whole carpet – the fiber, the backing, everything
in commercial environments. “Because it’s no lon-
about it – is made out of recyclable material. That is
ger a specialty product, prices are about the same
very unique in the industry.” Among other desirable CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
37
IS IT WOOD OR VINYL? (CONTINUED)
benefits, it’s very easy to clean and inherently
get an idea of whether customers are looking for
stain resistant and colorfast. “You can pour
hardwood or carpet, Matt explains. Then a very
bleach on some of these color fibers and it
short conversation regarding colors and designs,
does not take any color out of them,” Matt adds.
eliminates 95 percent of choices so sales consul-
As for other flooring trends, most start on
tants can offer a more laser focused approach to
the West coast and can take 18 months to
38
options that meet customers’ criteria.
two years before they’re in vogue here on the
And what options! We could have spent the
East coast. Flooring R&D people know this, so
day just ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the selec-
Matt’s showroom often has samples for these
tions. “There are very high-end visuals in all
forward-facing looks long before they are trend-
the flooring lines we carry,” Matt said with too
ing here. “Sometimes we get these crazy colors
much humility. “We have designer carpet prints;
and patterns and we’re scratching our heads
luxury vinyl plank; wide-width, long-length
thinking, ‘Why are you showing me these? This
visuals in vinyl; long length rustic visuals in
will not be a good seller.’ And they say, ‘Just
hardwood... Those are among your higher-end
give it time; it’s coming this way.’ As sure as the
investments.” Not everyone has the same
sun comes up, they do come into style, though
vision for their home, he added. “Many want a
sometimes they don’t last very long.”
casual look, but we can provide a nice, plush
One trend sure to last, though, is what he
carpet with a low pattern to it, or we can direct
calls “ease of living.” When the pandemic hit,
them to one of the Canadian-made hardwoods,
sales dipped, but by July, people who had been
which have a very durable finish on them. They
forced to live in and work out of their homes 24-7
have a nice clean look. It just depends – every
were looking to change things up in their interior.
customer is a little bit different!”
Some had a fixed idea of what they were look-
Once carpeting is installed, customers can
ing for, but probably didn’t appreciate the sheer
rely on their sister company, Loudoun Carpet
range of options available until they started to
Care, which the partners started in 1991.
communicate with Loudoun Valley Floors.
Because the partners touch so many aspects
“Off the top of my head, I’d say there are 30
of the business personally, the vast majority
manufacturers that are represented in the store
of clients have some contact with one of the
here, between carpet, luxury vinyl plank and
owners at some point in their flooring journey.
hardwood,” Matt says. “It can be a little over-
“We go out and do the in-home measure-
whelming, so we like to have a little sit-down
ments, and sometimes we’re working with
with customers and talk through their options.
the clients in the showroom. So even though
It sets their mind at ease and takes a weight
we have 24 employees total, one of the four
off their shoulders that they don’t have to look
owners usually has some form of contact with
through all these samples!”
our clients,” Matt says.
Because showroom visits are by appointment
More importantly, “We hold ourselves, our
only during COVID restrictions, the shopping
employees, everybody to a very high standard.
process begins with an online questionnaire to
What sets us apart in the flooring business is
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Ashburn Showroom: A World of Possibilities
Gleaming Wood Stairs
10 percent discount, but the former has donated flooring and/or installation services in helping to build the first four homes for HeroHomes (see story, p. 52), several homes for Loudoun Habitat For Humanity (https://LoudounHabitat.org) customer service. Anybody can start a flooring
and one for the Loudoun Abused Women’s
store – they can stock the samples and sell the
Shelter (https://www.lcsj.org). “Anyone who
product – but it’s the follow-through that mat-
reaches out to us, we usually try to find a way
ters... We love working with manufacturers who
to work with them,” Matt says; “We try to do our
stand behind their products. It gives the cus-
part in the community.”
tomer a nice warm feeling that, if they don’t like it, there is always something they can do about it.
Visit
We want you to feel good about your purchase.”
loudounvalleyfloors.com/) in either Ashburn
Customers can also feel good about patronizing
Loudoun
Valley
Floors
(https://www.
(20700 Loudoun County Pkwy #156, Ashburn, VA
a community-engaged company like Loudoun
20147) or Purcellville (129 N Bailey Ln Suite C, Pur-
Valley Floors and Loudoun Carpet Care. Both not
cellville, VA 20132), but during COVID, please re-
only offer teachers and first responders a standing
member to first make an appointment!
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
39
Your comfort is our goal. 571-248-5091 www.modernmec.com
Don’t Wait.
INSULATE
Contact us today for a free estimate!
40
703-844-3478 | FloorsTooCold.com
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Most crawl spaces are UNDER-insulated. Get warmer floors without higher heating bills. INSULATE YOUR CRAWL SPACE!
Your small business is a big deal to us. #BuidingLifelongRelationships
2 East Main Street, Berryville, Virginia 226111 | (800) 650-8723 www.bankofclarke.bank
OPEN HOUSE
The living area is open and connected.
MICHAEL NASH DESIGN/BUILD'S COMPLETE MAKEOVER BRINGS A HISTORICAL FEEL TO A MODERN REMODEL 42
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
A NARI/CotY Award Winning Remodel in Old Town Alexandria
This stunning kitchen is the centerpiece of the new first floor.
In th is year’s CotY Awards, M ichael Nash Design Bui ld & Homes took Grand prizes in Basement; Residential Bath in th ree categories; and Residentia l K itchen; and won either Merit or Final ist honors in th ree Entire House and two Residentia l Landscape Design / Outdoor Liv ing categories -- the most of any entrant.
ONE KEY DESIGN TIP WHEN UNDERGOING A HOME REN-
The built-in cabinets in the living room, as well as in the new
OVATION IS TO KEEP THE NEIGHBORHOOD IN MIND. It is
study also give the space a warm, vintage feel.
important to bring modern living into a project, but a remodel can never be done in a bubble.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t play with modern elements like the glass backsplash in the kitchen, new stainless steel
“The first thing we look at when starting a project is the sur-
appliances, the beautiful modern stone surrounding the new gas
rounding area,” says Sonny Nazemian, master designer/remod-
fireplace in the living room and the modern tile and stone master
eler at Michael Nash Design/Build. “We look at the age of the
bath...contrasts only add to the interest of the space and lead to
neighborhood and the history so we stay consistent and bring in
award winning projects like this one.
design elements to reflect what we see around the house.”
“Any great design will bring a high level of visual interest and
So when a family of four left Ashburn and bought a four-
bring the outdoors inside,” says Sonny. “The contrasting natu-
story townhome in the heart of old town Alexandria, the his-
ral elements between the brick and the modern stonework around
tory and beauty of the area played a huge role in the whole-
the fireplace are both focal points and make this high-traffic area
home renovation. Wide plank hardwood floors were brought
more livable and visually interesting.”
in throughout the home and brick veneer was added to the
That being said, the quaint, vintage feel of old homes typically
East wall to replicate the brick seen throughout Old Town.
comes with a hurdle for home renovations: smaller rooms and CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
43
OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)
The new master bathroom features a gorgeous mix of stone.
Add some charm to a home office with built-in shelving.
unusable spaces aren’t ideal for a modern lifestyle. So, the team
installed, ceiling raised, new HVAC put in for three levels, and
at Michael Nash had a lot of work to do.
the storage closet under the stairs was converted to a much-
Starting from the top floor, they converted a small bedroom
A big island with plumbing for a sink and a dishwasher was
figuring space from an old, smaller closet, the master bath was
placed in the center of the new, open kitchen, and the south wall
enlarged to have a large soaking bath tub, a walk-in shower, a
was filled with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a new cooktop and stain-
double floating vanity and a hidden toilet space.
less-steel range hood, complete with a glass tile backsplash. To
On the third-level, a new sharable bathroom with walk-in
complete this large living space, the dining room wall was taken
shower was added to the bedroom space by bumping a wall out
down to join it with the kitchen, and butler-style cabinetry, a wine
into the hallway. A stackable laundry space was put in for con-
cooler and glass cabinets were added next to the dining area.
venience. And as home offices are now the trend, a study with built-in shelving and French doors was carved out. The main level was totally revamped: walls taken down, floors built up to add extra insulation, new wide plank hardwood
44
needed main-level powder room.
into a master suite, complete with a walk-in closet. By recon-
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
“Successful remodeling projects of old homes keep the warmth of the past and add the conveniences of modern life,” says Sonny. “When we can put that all together we have happy clients.”
JEWELRY - GIFTS - APPAREL
IN-HOUSE JEWELRY REPAIR
BRANDING PA C K A G I N G STAT I O N E RY WEB
CUSTOM DESIGN
for corporate, social, and events
epoch DESIGN CO.
ASH BOU C HER, FOUNDER
L E E S B U RG , V I RG I N I A
visit our NEW LOCATION @epochdesign.co (571) 267-5884 www.epochdesign.co
212 Catoctin Circle, SE
always@kettermans.com . 703.777.0033 . www.kettermans.com CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
45
Buying, Building or Refinancing I care about your mortgage needs and saving you money. Call me today!
Amy Rogers
NMLS #319484
Your Local Mortgage Loan Originator
703-568-2699 amy.rogers@homebridge.com www.homebridge.com/AmyRogers 210 East Federal Street Middleburg, VA 20117
Homebridge Financial Services, Inc.; Corporate NMLS ID #6521 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess. org); 194 Wood Avenue South, 9th Floor, Iselin, NJ 08830; (866) 933-6342. Virginia Lender/Broker License #MC-3046. Branch Address: 210 Federal Street, 2nd Floor Middleburg, VA 20117; Branch NMLS#1878911. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. 11/2020
161 fort evans road ne, suite 120, leesburg
703-771-3300 | absolute-kitchens.com open by appointment
46
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
GREEN CLEANING
Our holistic cleaning program keeps your home fresh without harsh chemicals and irritating ingredients. You work hard to give your family the best choices possible. We support you with green cleaning supplies and gentle, yet highly effective, cleaning methods.
EXPERIENCE
With more than 35 years of experience, your personal preferences are our highest priority. Your house is cleaned and disinfected consistently, every time.
EXPERTISE
With unmatched training and expertise, our cleaning professionals are second to none. We train each employee with industry best practices and guide them through the first cleaning to get it right the first time.
OUR COMMITMENT
If you step on it, we take care of it. FLOORS AND REMODELING
We are committed to keeping your environment clean and non-toxic by using only the safest, EPA-approved, disinfectants and biodegradable products that have no harsh smells or chemicals. We use a color-coded microfiber cloths to avoid cross-contamination on kitchen and bathroom surfaces and a pH neutral cleaner on all floors.
COVID-19 Precautions
We are taking every precaution to ensure your safety. • Daily temperature checks. • Masks, gloves and shoe covers are worn. • We practice social distancing.
(703) 962-7500 22900 Shaw Rd Ste 107 Sterling, VA
(Some conditions apply)
www.novahomeworks.com CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
47
TREND SETTER Dr. Shohreh Sharif
A MORE COMFORTABLE TREATMENT OPTION
ARTICLE DR. SHOHREH SHARIF
MANY OF US HAVE HAD NEGATIVE AT
THE
DENTIST
OFFICE. This could have been due to a variety of factors. The mouth (oral cavity) is a very sensitive area. Keeping your mouth open for long periods of time can be uncomfortable. The needles for anesthesia are scary. The loud sound of the drill ringing between your ears can be unbearable, not to mention the shower you were not ready for with all that water spraying everywhere! DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE IS AN ALTERNATIVE TO ALL OF THIS? Laser dentistry is the answer you have been searching for. Lasers have been used in medicine for roughly 40 years. They are safe and becoming more widely used in the field of dentistry. In fact, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved laser dentistry for specific conditions. Lasers offer a more comfortable treatment option for a wide variety of treatments as opposed to conventional drills and other non-laser tools. They can make dental treatments more effective and comfortable.
48
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
L A SER DENTISTRY
EXPERIENCES
HOW IT WORKS The instrument creates light energy that is highly focused into
Proper training and education are essential
a narrow beam. This beam is then directed at the area of focus to
for the dentist. Dr. Shohreh Sharif has taken
obtain intended results. There are two primary functions of lasers
years of extensive continuing education cours-
in dentistry: hard and soft tissue. Hard tissue refers to the teeth
es from all around the world in laser dentistry.
and soft tissue, the gums.
She has state-of-the-art equipment to ensure
Different wavelengths and strengths are used for different types
safety during the procedure and a successful
of procedures. The light from the laser that shines on the area is
outcome. Contact Greater Washington Den-
extremely specific allowing for minimally invasive treatment to
tistry (https://www.shohrehsharif.com/) and
be performed. This interaction causes minimal side-effects such
Dr. Sharif to set up a consultation. Explore your
as pain and excessive heat to the surrounding area versus con-
options and ask if laser dentistry is suitable for
ventional methods. In fact, it can actually promote healing in the
your next dental procedure. Laser dentistry has
treated area, whereas previous healing times would be longer with
the chance to change the age-old negative
significant post-operative pain/sensitivity.
conceptions and phobias that are associated
The laser works in a way which minimizes vibration leading to
with a trip to the dentist and the drill.
increased comfort during the procedure. This is especially important in our pediatric populations to reduce fear and anxiety. Certain lasers
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
work with your teeth in a way that actually have a pain-relieving effect.
Journal of the American Dental Association, 2020
This is very important because it can eliminate the need for the anes-
Lasers in Dentistry, 2017
thesia. This is the portion of an appointment where the needle is used!
European Journal of Pediatric Dentistry, 2017
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
49
YOUR YOUR LIFE. LIFE. YOUR YOUR LAND. YOUR LAND. LAND.
YOUR YOUR VALUES. VALUES.
Not Just Tax Preparation... TAX PLANNING!
Our COUNTRY ES TATE INSUR ANCE is designed for you – a Our ES INSUR ANCE is for you Our COUNTRY COUNTRY ESTATE TATE INSUR ANCEwhose is designed designed you –– aais small-scale farmer or horse owner primarfor y income small-scale farmer or owner whose primar y income isis small-scale farmer or horse horseYour owner whose primar income from another occupation. land is more thany just a hobby, from another occupation. Your land is more than just aa hobby, from another occupation. Your land is more than just hobby, it ’s a lifestyle and I can help you choose insurance that of fers it and you insurance that of fers it ’s ’s aa lifestyle lifestyle and II can can help helppolicy you choose choose protections a homeowners doesn’tinsurance provide. that of fers protections protections aa homeowners homeowners policy policy doesn’t doesn’t provide. provide. • Farm and residence property and liability •• Farm residence property Farm and and residence equipment/ser property and and liability liability • Built-in mechanical vice line failure •• Built-in equipment/ser vice line failure Built-in mechanical mechanical • Machiner y, livestock,equipment/ser products and vice moreline failure •• Machiner Machinery, y, livestock, livestock, products products and and more more
A N N A CO N N O R S A A E NN TA AGN N N A CO C ON NN NO OR RSS AGENT
AGENT PO Box 1211 PO Box 1211 Purcellville, PO Box 1211VA 20134 Purcellville, VA 20134 Anna.Connors@American-National.com Purcellville, VA 20134
Anna.Connors@American-National.com Anna.Connors@American-National.com
703.398.4734 703.398.4734 703.398.4734
American National is a group of companies writing a broad array of insurance products and services. Products and services may not beisavailable in companies all states. Terms, conditions and eligibility requirements willservices. apply. Property American National a group of writing a broad array of insurance products and Productsand and Americanmay National isavailable a services group of companies writing abybroad array of insurance products and Products and casualty products and underwritten American National Property And Casualty Company orand American services not be inmaybe all states. Terms, conditions and eligibility requirements will services. apply. Property services may not Insurance be available inmaybe all states. Terms, conditions and National eligibility requirements willInsurance apply. Property National General Company, both of Springfield, Missouri, or FarmProperty Family Casualty Company or casualty products and services underwritten by American And Casualty Company or and American casualtyFarm products and services maybeboth underwritten by American National And Casualty Company or American United Family Insurance Company, both Glenmont, New York. National General Insurance Company, of of Springfield, Missouri, or FarmProperty Family Casualty Insurance Company or National General Insurance Company, both of of Springfield, United Farm Family Insurance Company, both Glenmont,Missouri, New York.or Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company or United Farm Family Insurance Company, both of Glenmont, New York. 21-010.00000.V1.01.21 21-010.00000.V1.01.21 21-010.00000.V1.01.21
50
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Business and Individual Accounting Services Payroll Services » Tax Services » CFO Service
Your Community Contractor Serving Northern Virginia for more than 30 years
If winter weather was rough on your roof, call for a free repair or replacement estimate.
>
MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE ALL SERVICES
5% OFF
ROOFING ROOFING | SIDING | WINDOWS GUTTERS | SKYLIGHTS | SUN TUNNELS Replacement | Repair
703.230.ROOF (7663)
www.dryhome.com
We bring your visions to reality. TAILORED INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES
703.244.6986
luxdesignassociates.com CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
51
LOCAL LIMELIGHT HOUSES, JOBS, COMMUNITY FOR THOSE WHO FOUGHT FOR FREEDOM
HeroHomes Makes Loudoun Home To Disabled Vets Co-Founder Matt Lowers
TO HEAR MATTHEW LOWERS TELL IT, HE AND JASON BROWNELL FORMED LOUDOUN-BASED HEROHOMES IN 2015 AFTER JASON, A BUILDER BY TRADE, MET RETIRED MARINE CORPORAL OGNITION WHEN HIS HUMVEE DROVE OVER A
His work can be jarring, but no more than his night-
ROADSIDE BOMB IN IRAQ. Jason managed a home
mares, forged at a blockade in Afghanistan where he
building project for a national charity in Lovettsville
was ordered to fire on a bus that refused to stop and
for Tony. Tony underwent more than 128 surgeries to
proceeded to run the roadblock. AV fired and the results
address burns over 35 percent of his body and Jason
have haunted him. When he was introduced to Jason
was deeply moved by his sacrifice.
and Matt, he was living in his car, spending his retire-
“Jason came to me and said, ‘Why don’t we do some-
ment and disability pay traveling around the country
thing like this in Loudoun? I’ll build the homes and you
seeking to help other disabled veterans through art. “He
do the business end.’” Both men had grown up here and
put everything he had back into helping others, so we
were, by Matthew’s definition, “blessed,” so he imme-
decided he was definitely the right kind of guy for us to
diately agreed and the foundation was formed with a
help in this way,” says Matt.
mission to “build houses, jobs, and community for those who have fought for the preservation of freedom and
HEROHOMES’ BYLAWS HAVE JUST THREE CRITERIA
democracy for others.”
FOR SELECTING VETERANS FOR ASSISTANCE:
Matthew says, “We’re all volunteers – no one gets paid. Our goal was to build one house a year and we’ve come close to that. We’ve built three and the fourth one is almost done, with our sights on number five in Round Hill.”
+ A 100% disabled discharge designation from the US Armed Services + Injuries sustained in the recent war on terrorism + A willingness to live in Loudoun County – because the partners aren’t going anywhere
Project 4, scheduled to be finished in mid-March, has
The third criterion is partly based on the founders’
been dubbed “AV House,” after its intended recipient,
own love of Loudoun and partly due to the incredible
US Army veteran Vainuupo Avegalio. Matthew says
network of partners that they’ve amassed who are willing
AV grew up in Samoa, caught a fishing boat to Hawaii
to donate materials and services. Nearly 100 building
and joined the military. He served 15 years, sustaining
companies – supplying everything from lumber to dry-
injuries including severe PTSD. As a way of coping with
wall and HVAC, and more than 40 service providers from
his trauma, he’s taken up painting and posts his work to
food to interior designers to maid services, are listed on
Instagram as http://www.instagram.com/vais_art.
the group’s website http://herohomesloudoun.org.
52
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
ARTICLE MELINDA GIPSON
TONY PORTA, WHO WAS BURNED BEYOND REC-
AV: Artist, Veteran
AV's Artwork
AV's New Home
House #5 On the Horizon
A Bluemont Vineyard Fundraiser Raised $4200
HeroHomes Founders, Jason and Matthew
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Leesburg
53
LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
Loudoun is an ideal place for veterans to thrive with its combination of both beautiful natural surroundings and quiet communities. Says Matthew, “They’re trained to kill, have killed, been shot at. We feel like, if you can give them home ownership or just a place where they can feel comfortable, that is invaluable. Having this place to call home where they can close the door and be private and get away from whatever it is that’s bothering them – it makes all the difference. They’ve all made such huge sacrifices; it’s the least we can do to repay it.” HeroHomes’ biggest challenge is funding – pure donations to help them purchase either the land or the materials needed to build the homes. Its two biggest fundraisers, a Casino Night and Golf Tournament both were cancelled last year, and the casino fundraiser was cancelled this winter again. And yet, often when they least expect it, someone reaches out to help. “Literally, our largest donor reached out to us and said, ‘I’ve sold my government contracting business for more than I can spend, but I grew up with nothing – I could once put everything I owned in a paper bag. So now, I’m going to give it all back. What’s your biggest need?’” Matthew relates. When the partners said they had the land picked out for their second home, but didn’t yet have the money to buy it, the donor gave them $160,000 to fund the entire purchase. “We offered to make that a house in his honor, but he wouldn’t hear of it.” Now, whether the lot is sold at a deep discount, or the recipient buys it, the foundation believes that veterans benefit by having “some skin in the game.” AV’s Purcellville home, though it has a value of more than $600,000, will have a mortgage of $125,000, offered by the Bank of Charles Town on whose advisory board Matthew serves. HeroHomes will be a subordinated lender, and given right of first refusal should anything happen to AV. HeroHomes is looking to fund house number five, and asks prospective donors to consider making a recurring gift of $100/month or more. The website is a great place to learn more, or just pick up the phone and reach out, he says. Military service is certainly no pre-requisite; neither Matt nor Jason served. “We both just felt this calling to help veterans,” and sadly, there’s no shortage of those needing help. You can reach Matthew at herohomesloudoun@gmail. com and read more at https://herohomesloudoun.org.
54
Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021
Tony Porta, HeroHomes' Inspiration
PROJECTED
OPENING 2023
p l a n w i s e l y.
DISCOVER LUXURY OF A DIFFERENT KIND Now more than ever is the time to look forward. Introducing The Mather in Tysons, Virginia— a forward-thinking destination for those 62 and better. Forget what you thought you knew about senior living. Inquire today.
(703) 348.8522 | themathertysons.com
D e l i g ht • R e ve l • A spi re
2/21 PB LL
Virtual Information Seminar | Tuesday, March 16, 10:00 a.m. ET. RSVP at themathertysons.com or email info@themathertysons.com.