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Leesburg, VA March 2021

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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


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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.”


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Leesburg Lifestyle | March 2021


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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

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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


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