Showing posts with label VIRGINIA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label VIRGINIA. Show all posts

Jan 19, 2016

We're thrilled to have Belfort Furniture sponsoring the Home + Remodeling Show. The largest furniture store in Washington DC and Northern Virginia is not only providing high quality furniture for the show's Main Stage, they'll also be participating in our Designer Rooms feature.


Belfort Furniture is the area's premier furniture mall, with the largest selection of quality home furnishings. They offer styles for every decor and budget. Customers can choose from a wide variety of in-stock options or custom order the perfect piece for their space.

Can't wait to see what Belfort Furniture is bringing to the show? We sat down with their team to talk about what they had planned for the upcoming event and what home decor trends they envisioned for 2016. Check it out below!

Please describe your products.

"Conveniently located in Dulles, Virginia, Belfort Furniture features 100,000 sq. ft. of showrooms. As Washington DC's premier furniture mall we showcase the area's largest selection of quality name brands, including premium mattresses. We are are source of inspiration, expert advice, great ideas and latest trends. With over 500 room settings on display including over 300 sofas, over 100 dining rooms and over 100 bedrooms, plus home office and youth, we strive to make decorating easy and affordable. Make one stop to see inspiring displays of furniture for every room and in-home design services."


What are your best home or garden tips for the season?

"1. Conversation Starters: Mix your furnishings with a few artisanal, one-of-a-kind finds to create a unique look in your space. From tapestry poufs and live edge accent tables to painted chests and accent pillows. 2. Metallics are big right now. Think about including a metal accent table in your room. Or, you could add gold lamps, candlestick holders, a mirror, bookends, a tray, or a gold tone accessory for a bit of bling. 3. Textures: Integrating texture adds an organic touch to your decor. Think in terms of layers: sofa fabric, a toss pillow in a bold print, or add a faux fur throw for fun."

Will you have any show specials?

"Our trendsetting Belgian linen sectional will be featured at $500 off. Reg. $1999, now $1499."


What are your biggest home decor pet peeves?

"Matchy-matchy rooms. To achieve a unique look, mix tables, add an accent chair in a complementary fabric to a room instead of a chair that matches the sofa. Rooms without accessories. Like jewelry is to the little black dress or outfit, accessories like wall art, lamps, table decor, accent pillows, throws, complete a room and give it the wow factor."

What is your favorite part of the Home + Remodeling Show?

"The show inspires customers to think about how they can enhance their surroundings to live life beautifully."


The Home + Remodeling Show will be filling the Dulles Expo Center with home improvement experts, design professionals, several home and garden stars, an all-new Cooking Stage, and much more! Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show - we'd love to see you there!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 22-24, 2016.



Jan 18, 2016

This is a woman who knows her way around power tools. Kayleen McCabe, the star of DIY Network's Rescue Renovation, will headline the Home + Remodeling Show in the Washington DC suburbs at Northern Virginia's Dulles Expo Center January 22-24, 2016.


Kayleen is a licensed contractor who never met a trouble renovation she didn't like. The premise of Rescue Renovation is that she can take a terrible property and turn sad rooms into jaw-dropping spaces in seven days. She says she's willing to go to any length to bring out the existing charm of a home.

Kayleen's great endeavor is to bring young people into the trades. She is an industry leader, teaching kids how to pick up a trade and use it to create a better life.

Kayleen was featured last week in The Washington Post's live chat moderated by Post Home and Design editor Jura Konicus. Readers submitted questions and Kayleen answered dozens of queries within an hour. Here are some of the best excerpts from the chat:

Q: What's the worst room in the house to renovate?

Kayleen: "The worst room? The worst room is a space that was worked on by someone who did things incorrectly the first time. But the most challenging room to work in would be the bathrooms (because of space) followed by kitchens. In each of these spaces you have plumbing and electric and many other trades. In addition, a lot of coordination needs to be done to get the timeline as efficient as possible."

Q: How can you decide if your 80 year old wood floors can be sanded yet again without disappearing? How often do you really need to sand them?

Kayleen: "Old floors are commonly 3/4" thick, but that doesn't mean you have that entire space to use for refinishing. Floors go together in a tongue and groove style. That really gives you one third of that 3/4" to sand - roughly 1/4". When you sand past that you are likely to see larger gaps in the wood, possibly fasteners starting to show, and the integrity of the wood starts to decrease. There are a few ways to preserve them and not go through an entire refinishing process, but I would have to suggest you contact a local flooring expert for their best suggestions."

Q: Hi Kayleen! So excited you are coming to Northern Virginia next week - We have a kitchen floor problem. Bought the house with a tile floor in the kitchen and thought we loved it - until the tiles started to crack. Come to find out that it was a DIY job and the floor was not prepared correctly. Trying to figure out if we start over, use something different, or what? We are overwhelmed and can't seem to make a decision!

Kayleen: "I am very excited to be heading to the east coast as well! With a tile problem like that I would suggest starting over. You could patch it one tile at a time, but the problem might never be truly fixed. Starting from scratch will let you control the outcome, not trying to guess or work around what the previous DIYer did."

Q: It is such a pain to have a full bath redone. We only have one in our house. How long should a total gut of the room and rebuild take?

Kayleen: "A full gut and remodel of a bathroom could take on average 2-3 weeks. The process can go much faster if the project is properly pre-planned - like all of the materials are on the job site before the project starts, and the sub-contractors are scheduled."

Get all your renovation questions answered January 22-24 at the Home + Remodeling Show. Kayleen McCabe will be on stage Friday, January 22 at 6pm and Saturday, January 23 at 2pm and 6pm.


Don't have tickets yet? Buy in advance to save big and skip box office lines. Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets when you connect with us on Facebook. Click here to take advantage of this exclusive offer.

DULLES EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 22-24 2016.


Dec 17, 2015

We're pleased to have Long & Foster joining us at the 2016 Home + Remodeling Show. As the largest real estate company in the Mid-Atlantic region, their goal is to bring you the total home ownership experience, which means providing services that go beyond the exchange of real estate. Long & Foster can help with your mortgage, title, and insurance. And when it comes to maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to your home, their expert team can help put you in touch with trustworthy companies.

Founded in 1968, Long & Foster has grown from a single, 600 square-foot office in Fairfax, VA, to the largest privately-owned real estate company in America. Their experienced agents are ready to help with your real estate needs, whether you're buying, selling, upsizing, downsizing, and more.

Visit the Long & Foster team in Booth 648 at the Home + Remodeling Show. Can't wait to see them? Check out our brief interview below to get their best tips for homeowners this season.

Please describe your services.

"Long & Foster extends reach to the Carolina Coast! Relocation is a breeze with Long & Foster on your side. You’ve worked hard your entire life. Now that you’re ready to start a new chapter, the last thing you want to do is deal with overwhelming decisions. That’s why, when it’s time to choose a retirement community, Long & Foster is the name you can trust. This process is all about you, which is why we take the time to get to know you, so we can match you with the amenities and lifestyle that you want. When you put your home search in our hands, we streamline the process so you can save time and make a more informed decision."

What are your best tips for homeowners this season?

"Since winter is coming, we suggest doing things that can improve your way of life inside your home. Unfortunately in the VA, MD, and DC area, the weather outside is downright frigid, so take advantage and stay indoors and get organized! Change batteries in smoke alarms. Clean out the refrigerator. Clean out closets and donate unused items. Clean range hood and filters. Declutter home office. Check sump pump for proper operation"

Will you have any show specials?

"We are featuring the top Relocation and Retirement Communities in Coastal North and South Carolina! Stop by and take our lifestyle survey to see which communities fit your needs from a lifestyle, location, and price."


What are your home and garden pet peeves?

"Not cleaning out the chimney! Chimney inspections should be scheduled once a year. To be sure that all of your systems are in working order and operating as they should, it is recommended that homeowners get an annual chimney inspection. Most homeowners opt to have a chimney cleaning done every year as well, especially if they use their fireplace on a regular basis."

What is your favorite part about the Home + Remodeling Show?

"Our favorite part is truly helping individuals locate their dream home. Listening to their needs is more advantageous to the process, and allows our team of experts to better serve those looking to purchase in the Carolina's and across the country."

The Home + Remodeling Show takes over the Dulles Expo Center January 22-24, 2016. See hundreds of home improvement experts, your favorite home and garden celebrities, and more when you explore the show.

Don't have tickets yet? Save big when you buy 'em online! Right now you can save $3!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 22-24, 2016.


Dec 15, 2015

We're excited to have Mosquito Joe joining us at the 2016 Home + Remodeling Show. Mosquito Joe provides mosquito control treatment to residential and commercial customers. Their technicians are trained mosquito experts dedicated to one thing: getting rid of mosquitoes so that you can enjoy being outside again.

Outfitted with the latest gear and baked by the coordination of a top-notch support staff, Mosquito Joe technicians in the field get the job done swiftly, thoroughly and safely. They offers a variety of services to suit your unique needs, whether you need a barrier spray, misting system, or just a one-time service for a special event.

Make sure to see them at the 2016 Home + Remodeling Show. Can't wait that long? We caught up with the Mosquito Joe team to talk about what they've got planned for the show. Get a sneak peek below!

Please describe your services.

"Mosquito Joe employs State Certified Technicians to provide a highly effective pest control barrier spray around your home and yard area. Our options for type of spray includes a standard mosquito eradicator spray as well an Eco Friendly spray that is garlic based. In addition to mosquitoes, our products are effective at getting rid of ticks, fleas and 23 other flying pests. Our applications are targeted for the warm months between March and October."

What are your best tips for homeowners this season?

"Mosquitoes suck, and they can make working in your garden or flower beds, or even barbequeing, an awful experience. For that reason we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and never lock you into a contract. If you are not completely satisfied with the effectiveness of our barrier spray services, contact us within 14 days of your treatment and we will re-spray your property at no additional charge. We have absolute confidence in our products and pride ourselves in customer service and our job is not done until you're happy and The Outside is Fun Again!"

Will you have any show specials?

"At the show, we will be offering everyone $39 first sprays for up to 1 acre lot sizes. We will also be offering a chance to win a free spray and some great giveaways."

What are your home and garden pet peeves?

"We hate being exposed to pests that can possibly carry diseases that are very harmful to humans. Lyme disease and West Nile are two of worst, and last year we had both of them in the DELMARVA area."

What is your favorite part about the Home + Remodeling Show?

"In two and half days we are able to get exposure to our neighbors and potential customers. It is a great use of our time and a chance to let everyone know we have a pest control plan that works for anyone."

The Home + Remodeling Show takes over the Dulles Expo Center January 22-24, 2016. With hundreds of home improvement experts ready to help with your latest home project this is a must-attend event for Northern Virginia and DC homeowners.

Don't have tickets yet? Buy 'em online to save big! Click here to SAVE $3 on tickets!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 22-24, 2016.



Dec 12, 2015

We're excited to have Truly Frameless Shower Doors joining us at the 2016 Home + Remodeling Show. This locally operated business provides premiere truly frameless glass shower doors in Northern Virginia and the surrounding areas.


Founded on a need to provide homes with frameless shower doors that would not take over the bathroom or shower, obstructing the view of aesthetically pleasing elements such as tile work, wood, glasswork, and customized fixtures, Truly Frameless Shower Doors has been serving homeowners for almost a decade.

Learn more about this revolutionary product when you visit the Truly Frameless Doors team in Booth 1305 at the Home + Remodeling Show. Can't wait that long? Enjoy our brief interview with them below!

Please describe your products.

"If you’re looking for frameless shower doors in Virginia, the experts at Truly Frameless are here to help. A frameless shower provides several advantages you should consider for your home. Eliminating the metal clips, aluminum channels, and silicon associated with other methods of installing the glass, our system gets rid of unwanted silicon mold and mildew commonly associated with their use, and provides for a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing frameless shower enclosure. A frameless or glass shower enclosure also will not obstruct your family and guests’ view of all the hard work you put into your bathroom, such as tile and woodwork, glasswork, and other decorative touches. Additionally, frameless shower doors and enclosures are easier to manipulate than their enclosed counterparts. This reduces or even eliminates slips, falls, and other shower-related mishaps. Amazingly, although our product looks more luxurious, the cost is similar to the other 'frameless' shower enclosures."

What are your best tips for homeowners this season?

"Please do not use ammonia based products on glass. Stayfree glass cleaner is most recommended."

What is the strangest client request you've ever received?

"We were requested to complete a shower enclosure that was completely round."

What's your favorite part about the Home + Remodeling Show?

"Reaching out to new people and explaining how our product is different than what anyone else is offering."

Is there anything else you think folks should know about your company?

"Truly Frameless is partnered with HB Services to handle all you remodeling needs."

The Home + Remodeling Show is on at the Dulles Expo Center January 22-24, 2016. Hundreds of home improvement experts will gather, ready to give guests advice, tips, and inspiration for their homes. Plus guests can see Bravo star Jeff Lewis!

Don't have tickets yet? Save big when you big them online. Right now you can SAVE $3 on tickets!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 22-24, 2016.



Oct 6, 2015

What a whirlwind weekend! As quickly as we took over the Dulles Expo Center it seemed it was time for us to leave. That's right folks, the Capital Home Show has come and gone - and what an amazing event. We'd like to take a moment to thank the incredible and talented celebrities, DIY gurus, interior designers, Realtors, and home improvement professionals who came together to make the show such a success. We're very fortunate to work with such a skilled group of individuals.

If you weren't able to attend the event, don't worry. We've rounded up our favorite moments from the show, so everyone can feel like they were there. Here's what you missed:


Jason Cameron, host of Man Caves, Sledgehammer, and Desperate Landscapes wowed Main Stage audiences with his home improvement know-how and a fun behind-the-scenes look at his work on the DIY Network.


Dr. Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell, The Fabulous Beekman Boys, took to the Main Stage to talk about life on the Beekman farm, how sustainable living has changed their lives, and their latest book.


Denise Sabia, the voice behind The Paint Home Blog, designed a beautiful Main Stage to help show guests the power of mixing new and old decor, and how they can upcycle thrift store finds.

The French Country Cottage

The Wine Tasting Room

The Writers Retreat

Home show attendees were able to explore three fully customized sheds at our ShedQuarters feature. Designed by members of the Interior Redesign + Staging Association, each space had a different theme. There was: the Writers Retreat, the French Country Cottage, and the Wine Tasting Room. It was so hard to pick a favorite!

Don't forget your mark your calendars - you don't want to miss the 2016 Home + Remodeling Show! With exciting celebrity guests, hundreds of home experts, innovative features, and so much more, it promises to be the home and garden event of the season. So make sure to save the date! We're at the Dulles Expo Center January 22-24, 2016. Hope to see you there!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 22-24, 2016.


Sep 24, 2015

Jason Cameron developed a passion for carpentry and construction at a young age, and worked as a construction worker after college to make ends meet. In 2003, he auditioned as an on-screen carpenter for the TLC renovation program, While You Were Out. He got the job and joined the cast in season two, staying on until the end of the show in 2006.


After the show's end, Jason became a licensed contractor and was approached by the DIY Network to host their landscape makeover series Desperate Landscapes in 2007. Since then, he has also been hosting Man Caves and Sledgehammer.

Before his appearances at the Capital Home Show, we spent some time with Jason to chat about his hobbies, favorites, and more. Check out our brief interview below, then come see him at the show!

Are you on social media?

"Yes, I love to connect with my fans and share upcoming episodes and projects we are working on. You can find me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram."


How did you get into carpentry?

"My dad was an electrician and he would occasionally do framing and roofing jobs on the side. At about the age of 12 or 13, I would tag along with him and try to help and that is when I first started to become passionate about working with my hands. All the experience eventually led to my career as a contractor/carpenter."

What's your man cave like?

"I have created over 140 man caves and I don't have one in my own house!! My wife and I have a condo and we don't have space for one...yet. I have an idea of what it would be, and it would include a walk-in cigar humidor!"


What do you do for fun?

"Fitness is a big part of my life as I am also a certified personal trainer specializing in strength and conditioning. I enjoy spending time with my wife, mountain biking, hiking, volleyball, and softball - when I'm not working of course!"

What is your personal mantra?

"Work hard and never take anything for granted!"

Thanks to Jason for stopping by our blog. You can see him on stage at the Capital Home Show on Friday, September 25 at 6pm and Saturday, September 26 at 2pm and 6pm.


The Capital Home Show takes over the Dulles Expo Center September 25-27, 2015. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and see Jason Cameron with a friend!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2015.


Sep 22, 2015

The story about how a New York Times best-selling author and the former Vice President of Healthy Living for Martha Stewart Omnimedia would end up running a goat farm in upstate New York together might be an unlikely one, but it’s the story of the Beekman Boys.  In 2007, author Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge, bought a farm in Sharon Springs, NY as a weekend getaway.  What the couple did not know is that the farm, Beekman 1802, would change their lives forever.


Josh and Brent, known as The Fabulous Beekman Boys, have their own show on the Cooking Channel (airing Thursdays at 10 am).  The Boys offer seasonal recipes, gardening tips, and inspired home decor advice on their website, Beekman1802.com.  As a result of their recent success, the Beekman Boys not only took part in the 21st season of CBS’ Amazing Race, but were the grand prize winners.

We had a chance to catch up with the Boys and talk about their visit to the Capital Home Show.

What will you be talking about at Capital Home Show?

“For those in the audience who have not heard of us, we will start by telling the unlikely story of how two guys wound up on a goat farm in upstate New York. We love to interact with the audience and will leave plenty of time for questions and photos, especially for our fans of The Fabulous Beekman Boys as well as CBS’ Amazing Race.” 

Your brand includes cooking, decor, gardening, crafts, cheese…Which projects are you most passionate about? 

“Beekman 1802 Farm is our life and we are passionate about every single season of the year on the farm.  Each experience helps generate exciting new ideas.  Right now we are excited about our newest book Beekman 1802 Style.

We partner with Country Living magazine to share our home design tips, tricks, and resources. In an exciting new partnership with the magazine, we have curated more than 200 images from our extensive archive, including never-before-seen photos of the historic Beekman farmhouse, to put together an inspiring volume for readers. Finally, we will all be able to create a home that is inviting, warm, and perhaps most importantly, fabulous."


Where do you gather most of your inspiration for your new projects?

“Everything we design, whether it’s a book, food project, piece of furniture, or bedroom linen draws inspiration directly from our life on the farm.  William Beekman built the farm in the year 1802, and he was our village’s original mercantilist, so we always think about what items he would have had in his original store and then put a little modern twist on it.”


What is your favorite piece of furniture in your home?

“We love everything in our home and take great pride in the pieces we incorporate.  We are minimalists and are careful about the pieces we bring in.  We would have to say the 600 lb. black walnut table we built for our dining room from a local tree we salvaged from a storm is one of our favorites.”  Learn more about the story here.

Catch the Fabulous Beekman Boys sharing their unique story and expertise on all things home on the Main Stage at the Capital Home Show at 4 pm on Friday, September 25 and 1 pm on Sunday, September 27.  The Capital Home Show takes over the Dulles Expo Center September 25 – 27, 2015.  

Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show! You won't see this kind of deal at the box office, so buy early and SAVE BIG!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2015.



Sep 21, 2015

Passionate about home renovations, Mina Fies creates spaces that nurture and empower clients through a methodical and holistic approach to remodeling. Having worked in the real estate, sales, and design fields since 1994, Mina has experienced first-hand the frustration and dissatisfaction homeowners can suffer during the remodeling process. She and her husband developed a unique system, (the Renovation Roadmap™), which alleviates frustration by choreographing all aspects of the remodeling process - from concept to completion.


Also a Certified Practitioner of Interior Alignment® (Instinctive Feng Shui) and Certified Green Professional (CGP), Mina believes understanding and embracing the spaces around us is key to living healthier, happier, and more environmentally friendly lives.

The Renovation Roadmap

She will be debuting the new Renovation Roadmap system on the Capital Home Show Main Stage September 25, 26, and 27. But before you see her presentations at the show, get to know Mina a little better through our interview below.

Are you on social media?

"Aren't we all? I'm on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Houzz, Pinterest, and now I'm getting familiar with Periscope. Not ready for primetime, but I'm working on it!"

What three items do you always keep in your tool belt?

"My 'tool belt' is a group of trusted advisers. Women business owners that keep me sane, and my best friend Danielle who I've known since the 4th grade. She tells me like it is."

What was your first job?

"Hostess at an all-you-can-eat seafood restaurant. I always smelled like fish and friend hushpuppies...yummmm!"

How were you discovered?

"Less than two years into our business, we had a project of ours featured on HGTV's Bang for your Buck. That show really gave us the credibility needed to take our business to the next level."

What famous figure inspires your career?

"Oprah Winfrey. I admire her for learning how to embrace her uniqueness instead of trying to be like everyone else. When you follow your passion, you live a blessed life."

Describe your design style in five words or less.

"Clean and contemporary with unexpected flare (alright, that's six)."

What was your first ever DIY project?

"Truth be told, I'm not really very handy. Don't have the patience for it, so I have a never-ending 'honey-do' list instead."

What design/gardening trend or item are you coveting this season?

"String lights. They come in so many fun shapes and sizes and create just the right amount of ambiance whether you're inside or out!"

What is your favorite room in your home and why?

"My meditation room. No matter where I've lived, it's a must-have. There's nothing like having a space that is your own sanctuary - a place to unwind, read, meditate, pray, or just take a nap!"

What's the last item you bought or crafted for your home?

"Artwork with beautiful blues and greens that remind me of the ocean."

What's your personal mantra?

"Anything at anytime is possible."

What is the most challenging part of your job?

"Maintaining a balance between day-to-day tasks with finding time for writing. I love the creative release, but never feel there's enough time in a day."

What is your favorite design or garden-related app?

"Houzz.com - I love seeing all of those beautiful finished spaces."

What is your favorite organizational tip?

"Put EVERYTHING in your calendar and get away from "to do" lists. I find when I schedule my life, I am free from the worry and anxiety of getting it all done. I'm clear it will be done because it's in my calendar and I don't have to think about it."

What is your design or gardening pet peeve?

"Bad Feng Shui in the bedroom. It drives me crazy when the headboard is placed on the entry wall (you always want it facing the door)!"

What's your favorite quote?

"'Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much' - Helen Keller. I love collaborating with my clients instead of just telling them what to do. It's fun watching them be amazed by their own creativity."

What's your best style advice?

"Only surround yourself with things you LOVE. Just because your Aunt Suzy gave you something 10 years ago doesn't mean ti has to hang on your dining room wall. Get rid of it and move on."

The Capital Home Show takes over the Dulles Expo Center September 25-27, 2015. Mina will be presenting Friday, September 25 at 1pm, Saturday, September 26 at 11am, and Sunday, September 27 at 2pm. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show. We can't wait to see you there!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2015.


Sep 16, 2015

Pam Faulkner is the owner of Faulkner House Interior Design and lead designer in the Capital Home Show's ShedQuarters feature. Her work with Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, and Hold Everything, which included monthly and seasonal display changes, lead to an increased interest in residential design. Pam's experience, creative vision, training, and down-to-earth approach have earned her a reputation for remarkable room transformations, showcasing her clients' personality and style.


The ShedQuarters is a new feature at the Capital Home Show. Guests will have the opportunity to stroll through three fully-furnished spaces and learn how they can recreate them in their own backyard. Wish you had a wine tasting room, writers retreat, or French country cottage? You don't want to miss this exhibit!

But before you explore these unique structures, get to know Pam Faulkner a little better in our interview below. Discover her design inspirations, style, and what she has planned for her shed.

Where did the shed trend start?

"Small outdoor private spaces have been around for a long time, often used as studios for artists or a place for writers to work without interruption. They've been popular for years as convenient backyard getaways. People who moved out into what was once the country often had buildings on their property that had been tool sheds, small storage barns, or even carriage houses. They turned them into wonderful and sometimes whimsical places that could be specific to a particular need or multi-purpose spaces. These were sometimes featured in shelter magazines and over time the idea took hold that nearly anyone with enough yard could have one of these private spaces, the equivalent of an adult playhouse."

How did you choose your themes?

"A list was made of types, styles, and functions for small outdoor rooms/spaces that would fit the style of buildings we were going to use. Then the list was narrowed to three that would appeal to both women and men."

French Country Cottage

Where do you find your inspiration for these spaces?

"The French Country Cottage was inspired by the old world charm of Provence, France. The Wine Tasting Room was inspired by our Virginia wineries and the fun of wine tasting gatherings. The Writers Retreat was inspired by Ernest Hemingway's study in Key West, Florida."

Describe your design style in five words or fewer. 

"Casually classic sophistication, comfortable, welcoming."

What was your first ever DIY project?

"I spray painted an old velvet slipper chair with fabric paint and lightly buffed it to give it a suede feel. That was many years ago and I still have and use the chair."

What design/gardening trend or item are you coveting this season?

"I love blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. The creation of garden spaces as outdoor rooms uses a resource that many homeowners forget about. It's real estate that they have paid for but don't use often or use mainly as storage space. When I create outdoor spaces for homeowners, I show them how it can function as living and storage space, often using what they already have in their home that is either weather resistant or easy to keep in attractive outdoor storage boxes, ready to pull out and use in minutes."

Writers Retreat

What is your favorite room in your home and why?

"Oh that's difficult. It's like picking your favorite child. It's probably the kitchen. That's where people tend to gather so it was designed to allow people to visit and watch or help cook and prep if they like. It has a large bay window with a prep counter that has wonderful lighting and a great view."

What is the most challenging part of your job?

"Not wanting to recreate some of the designs I do for my clients in my own home or buy some of the same furnishings!"

What is your favorite organizational tip?

"Have only what you really need and use; have designated places for everything so you know where it is when you need it. It sounds so simplistic, but most disorganization comes from having too many things that aren't really needed and not having a system for keeping what is needed in an orderly, functional manner."

Wine Tasting Room

Which style would you choose for your personal shed?

"The Wine Tasting Shed. It's a four season theme that can be anything from cozy, casual, formal, tailored to a small gathering or a large lawn party."

What are you going to do with the sheds after the Capital Home Show?

"The Wine Tasting shed, minus the furnishings, is going to be auctioned off with proceeds to benefit Habitat for Humanity of Northern Virginia. The French Country Cottage and Writers Retreat sheds (minus the furnishings) will be returned to the Outdoor Home Center in Manassas to be models on their lot. The furnishings that were repurposed and refurbished for ReStore will be returned to the store for resale."

The Capital Home Show takes over the Dulles Expo Center September 25-27, 2015. With appearances by The Fabulous Beekman Boys, DIY Channel star Jason Cameron, The Painted Home author Denise Sabia, and hundreds of experts ready to help with your next home improvement project, this is the home and garden event of the season.


Don't have tickets yet? Check us out on Facebook to SAVE BIG. Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2015.


Sep 15, 2015

You can't deny it any longer, as of September 23rd it's official: summer is over. That's right folks, it's finally fall. For some of you, this change of seasons might not be your favorite. We can understand that, summer is sunny and relaxing and fall is busy and cold. But fall doesn't deserve the rap it gets - it just has a hard act to follow. In fact, there are a lot of really great things that happen between September 23rd to December 21st. Don't believe us? Check out the top six things we love about fall.

1. Colors - Fall is a season that inspires rich hues and deep, earthy tones. We love spring pastels and summer's bright palette, but fall brings out such luxurious colors.

Image via House & Home

2. Decor - Seasonal interior and exterior decorations begin with fall and continue through the winter. Creating charming table settings, front doors, porches, and entryways is a great tradition. We know you can't wait to light your jack-o-lanterns and then deck the halls.

Image via House and Home

3. Fashion - There's something comforting, comfortable, and chic about sweater weather.

Image via Cabinology

4. Pumpkin Spice - Add it to lattes, muffins, bagels, donuts, cakes, pies, ice cream, bread, whatever you can think of really...it's all good!

Image via Dessert For Two

5. Holidays - Trick or treaters and being thankful are some of the best parts of fall. Too much candy, too much turkey, too much fun.

Image via Country Living

6. The Capital Home Show! - We can't mention fall without talking about the Capital Home Show. Planning a home renovation? Looking for some tips to help spruce up your space? Need some inspiration for your new home? The Capital Home Show is full of home design, decor, and renovation experts and celebrities, service providers ready to give you advice and discounts, educational demonstrations, and so much more! The home and garden event of the season takes over the Dulles Expo Center September 25-27, 2015.


Fall is a season we love, so we have to ask: what are you favorite things about fall? Did we miss something on our list? Let us know on Twitter on Facebook!


Did you know that connecting with us on social has lots of perks? Not only will you get the inside scoop on upcoming events and celebrities lifestyle tips, you'll also get exclusive access to ticket discounts. Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets to the Capital Home Show on our Facebook ticket deals. Click here to learn more.


DULLES EXPO CENTER
SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2015.