Atlanta home improvement 0415

Grass, Hardscape,Groundcover?

How to choose what works best in your yard…

and where p. 57

NEW!DIY Blogger Beat

Upcycle old lockers into bright, new storage! p. 66

MPROVEMENTMM

WWW.ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM®

S M A R T H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T S T A R T S H E R E

APR

IL 2

015atlanta home

inTile is popping up in surprising places and in new materials all over Atlanta p. 46

Tiled

ContestWinners

p. 26

2015

See who won and

get inspired by their

affordable room

makeovers!

What Atlanta home improvement insiders

want you to know p. 37

PLU ED

Contest

2015

0415_cover-001.indd 1 3/24/15 3:38 PM

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0415_cover-001.indd 2 3/20/15 2:43 PM

0415_003-005_masthead.indd 3 3/20/15 9:12 AM

0415_003-005_masthead.indd 4 3/20/15 9:12 AM

PRESIDENT/FOUNDERSherri Adair

PUBLISHERPatti Stephens

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERJennifer Prins

EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORJayne Hallock

[email protected]

COPY EDITORTaylor Arnold

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT MARKETINGDavid Leonard

ART DIRECTORDona Halliday

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVESandi Edelson

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORChela Counts

CONTRIBUTORSKathy KantorskiAmy Meadows

A t l a n t ac h a p t e r

MPROVEMENT®


atlanta home

Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above. Atlanta Home Improvement does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. Atlanta Home Improvement reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.

For print, web, email and social media advertising information contact us at:

80 West Wieuca Road, Suite 115Atlanta, GA 30342

(404) 303-9333 x 17 FAX (404) [email protected]

AtlantaHomeImprovement.com

Atlanta Home Improvement magazine uses soy-based ink and is printed on 100 percent recyclable paper.

Our print partner, Newpoint Media Group, recycles all excess paper, printing plates and any other

recyclable materials used in the printing process.

Follow us on

AtlantaTeakFurniture

Visit www.AtlantaTeak.com 5305 Peachtree Ind. Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30341 • 678.429.2814

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AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT APRIL 2015 5

0415_003-005_masthead.indd 5 3/23/15 4:06 PM

26

contents

features26 The 2015 Decorating on a

Dime Contest winners! See who won and get inspired by their

affordable room makeovers!

37 What Atlanta home improvement insiders

want you to know!

57 Covered Up! Grass, groundcover, hardscape? We help you decide what works best…and where!

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c.Photos courtesy of (left to right) Traditions in Tile and Stone, photography by Susan V. Hill; Levantina, photography by Tomasz Warek, designed by BNR Builders; The Tile Shop

Tiled in Style Tile is popping up in surprising places and in new materials all over Atlanta. Don’t miss our handy tile comparison chart!

ON THE COVER: Photo courtesy of Floor and Decor

46

57

PLU ED

© 2015 Georgia Power. All rights reserved. Certain restrictions apply. Must be a Georgia Power customer. Valid through December 2015. Rebate eligibility varies based on improvements made and energy reduction achieved. Rebate request must be submitted with receipt within 60 days of purchase or installation of qualifying improvements. Full details available online.

Do you know how much energy your home is wasting?The average home has enough air leaks to create an opening over 3 feet wide. So schedule a Whole House Energy Assessment, performed by a certified BPI contractor, to find out where your home is losing energy. Complete a BPI assessment and you’ll get up to a $225 rebate. And if you make the recommended energy improvements, you could get up to $2,350 in rebates. Learn more at georgiapower.com/wholehouse or call 1-877-310-5607.

Small energy leaks can really add up.

6 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT APRIL 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com

0415_006-009_TOC.indd 6 3/24/15 12:39 PM

© 2015 Georgia Power. All rights reserved. Certain restrictions apply. Must be a Georgia Power customer. Valid through December 2015. Rebate eligibility varies based on improvements made and energy reduction achieved. Rebate request must be submitted with receipt within 60 days of purchase or installation of qualifying improvements. Full details available online.

Do you know how much energy your home is wasting?The average home has enough air leaks to create an opening over 3 feet wide. So schedule a Whole House Energy Assessment, performed by a certified BPI contractor, to find out where your home is losing energy. Complete a BPI assessment and you’ll get up to a $225 rebate. And if you make the recommended energy improvements, you could get up to $2,350 in rebates. Learn more at georgiapower.com/wholehouse or call 1-877-310-5607.

Small energy leaks can really add up.

0415_006-009_TOC.indd 7 3/20/15 9:12 AM

in every issue 10 Editor’s Letter

12 Editor’s Picks Unique home décor shopping on Chamblee’s Antique Row

15 Home Front Quick tips, expert advice, fun events and more!

18 Garden Inspiration Check out the 2014 Urban Agriculture Council’s Judge’s Choice Winners!

20 New! Our Expert Panel Q&A What’s in (and what’s out!) with the “softer side” of décor trends

22 New! The Payoff: Home Improvement ROI 8 ways to get more bang for your home improvement buck

63 Resource Finder Find help with your home improvement projects

66 New! DIY Blogger Beat Old lockers � nd new life as bright and clever toy storage!

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15WE ALREADY KNOW YOU ARE INTO IMPROVING YOUR HOME. Now join the fun with our sister publication Best Self Magazine and vote for your favorite “self improver” in our Over 40 and Fabulous contest! Read more on page 15.


0415_006-009_TOC.indd 8 3/24/15 11:52 AM

ON KUDZU & GOOGLE+

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SERVICES INCLUDE:Air ConditioningHeatingMaintenance ProgramsService RepairsIndoor Air QualityHumidity ControlZoningSmart ThermostatsDuctless SystemsDuct CleaningWater Heaters

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or to schedule your free In-Home Consultation

770.COOL AIR (770.266.5247)

GET READY FOR SUMMERANY SERVICE

OR REPAIR

10%* OFF

SERVICE TUNE-UP

$5995PER UNIT

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INSTALLED

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2 visits. Some restrictions apply. Call for details.

FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION

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** 2 Ton 13 SEER Lennox A/C with matching coil and digital thermostat. Price includes standard installation and excludes

permits and bringing system up to code. Additional charges may apply for additional work and upgrades. Call for more details.

***Complete 2.0 Ton 16 SEER split system A/C with 45K BTU 80% gas furnace, matching coil and digital

thermostat. Price includes standard installation and excludes permits and bringing system up to code. Additional charges may

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Happy National Decorating Month!

editor’sletter

Decorating.

To some, it’s a dirty word. If you’re a skilled,

schooled interior designer,

you don’t want to be known as

“just a decorator.” If you’re a

manly, macho man who cares

about traditional gender roles,

you’d rather be caught dead

than “decorating.” And yet we

do it. All of us, every day.

It’s a very human impulse. When we repaint the exterior of

our home, that’s decorating. When we slap a bumpersticker

on our truck bumper, that’s decorating. When we get a

tattoo, put on cosmetics or even cut our hair in a new way:

decorating, decorating, decorating.

So this month—which happens to be National Decorating

Month—don’t �ght it. Embrace that urge to decorate! Pick

one favorite room in your house and ask yourself, how can

I make this better?

It’s not like there’s a shortage of décor options in our big,

beautiful city! A quick Google search of “Atlanta home

décor” gives you over 20 million results.

So get your creative sparks �ying by reading a few of this

month’s features and departments. On page 26, we address

any budget constraints head-on with our “Decorating on a

Dime” contest. You won’t believe how beautiful $1000 can

be! If antique-ing and one-of-a-kind-ing is your style, see

our Chamblee Antique Row editor’s picks on page 12. (You

won’t believe the fun and affordable décor available in that

charming little shopping district!)

And by the way, decorating isn’t limited to knick-knacks

and paint color. Page 46 features a great way to “decorate”

your kitchen, bath and much more…with tile! We even

decorate your outdoor space in our feature on choosing

your grass and groundcover, which you’ll �nd on page 57.

No matter what area or room you choose, upgrading your

indoor/outdoor décor is easier and more fun than you ever

imagined. So don’t be afraid to jump in and get creative.

This is the month to do it!

Happy Decorating,

Jayne Hallock Editor & Social Media Director


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0415_010-011_ED LETT.indd 10 3/23/15 2:23 PM


4 Things You’ll Learn This Month

1

Coming in May

In this Issue

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After our brutal winter, we’re all ready to bound around our yards like happy springtime

puppies. Check out our features on all the ways you can turn

your backyard into a play space, from playgrounds to

putting greens to bocce courts! Heading back indoors, we will also feature all the neat ways you can use wallcovering in your home. Also, in honor of National Home Improvement Month, we’ll turn you on to

all the new, super-helpful free tools and home improvement

apps out there!

Where can you get some unusual home decor? p. 12

Who won our Decorating on a Dime contest? p. 26

What is an encaustic tile? p.51

What are the most popular grasses in Atlanta? p. 57

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0415_010-011_ED LETT.indd 11 3/23/15 2:23 PM

1. Treasure HuntEnter a cavernously cool

store called The Treasure

Hunt. We spied some chic

designer-type women

perusing the seeming

acres of cute knick-

knacks, collectibles and

furniture. No wonder!

The enormous selection

is a designer’s paradise.

We especially loved this

swanky hand painted

party platter set. Find out

more at TheTMart.com. Or

drop by 3550 Broad Street,

Chamblee, GA 30341.

2. Estate GalleryWe honestly couldn’t take

enough photos here. Rows

of elegant glass, statues,

home décor and more.

This shop has a high-end

boutique feel. Easy to see

why it’s called a “gallery”

with its emphasis on

beautiful artwork. We had

to resist bringing home

this set of bright blue

Asian “dogs.” Go see them

at 3550 Broad St. Suite

C, Chamblee, GA 30341

or visit AtlantaFurniture

Consignments.com

3. Consignment Furniture DepotWe may never shop retail

furniture again. Store

employees tell us that

the (wonderful, chic) stuff

they sell here often comes

from movie sets and other

high-end places. We found

so many great, unique

pieces like this bright red

corduroy lounger. Stop

by at 5461 Peachtree Rd,

Chamblee, GA 30341 or

check for new arrivals at

ConsignmentFurniture

Depot.com

4. Broad Street Antique MallWhen you �rst walk in to

this store, you �nd a small

retail-feeling space with

shelves full of beautiful

collectibles and décor. But

enter the back area and

you are transported to

antique furniture nirvana.

Unique pieces like this

leather-topped octagonal

table are everywhere. Visit

them at 3550 Broad Street,

Chamblee, GA 30341 or go

to BroadStreetAntiqueMall.

com

5. The IcehouseAlthough this is very

much in the “Chamblee

Antique Row” area, it’s

de�nitely something of

a departure. You’ll �nd

vintage goods from the

50s – 70s. One look at

this groovy chair and

you just know they

carry interesting vintage

furniture, knick-knacks

and even vintage-look

appliances! Visit 5441

Peachtree Road, NE

Chamblee, GA 30341 or go

to IceHouseChamblee.com

editor’spicks New and notable home improvement products

Chamblee’s Antique Row

5

In celebration of National Decorating Month, we decided to go off the beaten mall/retail store path in search of more one-of-a-kind home décor options. What better place to do this than in the shopping district called “Chamblee’s Antique Row”? While these picks by no means show all the fabulous shops in this area, it’s a great sample of the nifty, thrifty stuff you can find for your home.

3

1

2

4

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www.designerworldtile.com12 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT APRIL 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com

0415_012-013_editors pick.indd 12 3/24/15 11:21 AM





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0415_012-013_editors pick.indd 13 3/24/15 10:38 AM

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0415_014-017_home-fronts.indd 14 3/24/15 10:41 AM

homefront

Shy spring is peeking its head up (�nally!) and Atlanta gardeners are

rejoicing. Many of them are headed to Decatur this month where they can

�nd the best selection of vegetables, herbs, trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials

and much more. The annual Plant Sale Festival is hosted by the Wylde Center at the organization’s Oakhurst Garden, and will

run from Friday to Sunday, April 10–12 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day. All of

the vegetables have been propagated by the Wylde Center’s horticulture

staff, while many of the other plants offered for sale will be provided by

local growers and partner organizations. Proceeds from the sale bene�t the

numerous educational offerings at the Wylde Center and help support the

Atlanta non-pro�t organization’s four public greenspaces.

See WyldeCenter.org for more information.

Meet Kitchen and Bath Designer Joe HazelliefDCD Kitchen and Bath Design Studio in Norcross

is proud to introduce Joe Hazellief as its newest

designer. Originally working in the Architecture

field, Joe brings with him 12 years of rich expertise

in residential interiors as well as kitchen and bath

design. Passionate about helping homeowners

navigate projects large and small, he says his goal

is “…to help clients make their new space a place

to come home to.” Welcome Joe!

Photo courtesy DCD Kitchen & Bath Design Studio, photography

by Gregg Willett Photography

Expert Q&A

What type of stainless

steel countertop

should I buy?

Three common grades

of stainless steel exist

in the foodservice industry and

are: Types 304, 316 and 400. The

best grade for homes, Type 304,

has the necessary stain and

corrosion resistance and is

easily formed into shapes and

welded.

Type 316 has higher stain

resistance and is commonly

seen in high acidity

environments, but is much

more expensive. Type 400 is

less expensive but is prone to

rust and corrosion. (Interesting

side note: 400 grade is magnetic

and 300s are not. This is why

kitchen inspectors often carry

magnets with them in

restaurants, to con�rm which

type they are using.)

—Dewey Thomas

of Anvil

Metalworks Inc.

has designed and

fabricated

residential

stainless steel

countertops, sinks and cabinetry in

Atlanta for the past 21 years. He

has enjoyed his experiences

engineering and supplying products

for both European countertop

companies in the U.S. and

American home improvement

stores. For more information see

AnvilMetalWorks.com

Q:

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Green For Sale

Expert Tips, News and Happenings from Atlanta’s Home Improvement Community

Photo courtesy of Wylde Center

A:


0415_014-017_home-fronts.indd 15 3/23/15 2:38 PM

homefront

April 10–12Dogwood FestivalHours VaryPiedmont Park Dogwood.org

April 10–12 Wylde Center Annual Plant Sale9 a.m. – 4 p.m.Oakhurst Community GardenWyldeCenter.org

April 11Art on the Chattahoochee9 a.m. – 3 p.m.Jones Bridge ParkGwinnettParks.com

April 18 – May 102015 Decorators Show Houseand GardensHours VaryDecoratorsShowHouse.org

April 18–19Sandy Springs ArtsapaloozaHours Vary6100 Lake Forrest Drive, NESandy Springs, GA 30328SandySpringsArtsapalooza.com

April 18–19Alpharetta Arts StreetFest10 a.m. – 6 p.m.Historic Downtown AlpharettaAwesomeAlpharetta.com

April 24–26Spring Home and Garden ShowPerimeter Mall(770) 844-0213

April 27–30Design ADACHours VaryAdacAtlanta.com/design-adac

May 1-3Druid Hills Home TourHours VaryDruidHillsTour.org

May 9Susan G. Komen Race for the CureLenox Square Mall8 a.m.Atlanta.Info-Komen.org

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS MONTH

Vote for your Fab 40 favorite by April 5th! Free Pond Maintenance Seminars!

Who are the most fabulous members of Atlanta’s over-40 crowd?

Find them in our

sister publication

Best Self Atlanta

magazine’s Over 40

& Fabulous! contest,

going on now. (You

obviously already

are a fan of ‘home

improvement’,

now let these

contestants

inspire you to

work on some ‘self

improvement!’) The

contestants were

nominated by their

friends, co-workers or family members because they give back to the community,

keep themselves looking great, and enjoy life to the fullest. Get to know them on

Best Self Atlanta’s Facebook page, facebook.com/bestselfatlanta, and vote for your

favorite fabulous contestant until April 5th. The top 10 winners will share their

stories in Best Self Atlanta’s June issue, so don’t miss it!

BEST SELF ATLANTA MAGAZINE’S 2014 Over 40 & Fabulous Contest winners. Pictured L-R: Erika Carter, Diana Hofsommer, Marsha Middleton, Toni Moceri, Dr. David Jones, Jen McGowan Guynn, Sue Cobb, Beth Ann Bearup, Virginia Keagle, Peggy Rainbow

Photo by Sawyer Photography

Photo courtesy of Splendor Koi

Maintaining a pond is tricky

business. Splendor Koi and Pond,

Atlanta’s trusted source of Koi

� sh, pond products and pond

information, is offering their

expertise in the pondkeeping.

Splendor Koi holds free seminars

on the � rst Saturday of every

month, with guest speakers and

topics ranging from mitigating

springtime pond problems,

to caring for your Koi. Visit

SplendorKoi.com for more

information!

1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. Atlanta, GA

Hours MON/SAT 10am to 5pm

404-355-4151

www.greatvaluefurniture.com

BESTVALUE IN BETTER

FURNITURE!

Over

60% Off

RetailHuge

Leather

Sale

Mattress $797 Dresser $697 Leather Sofa $1277 $227 $447Hooker RoundAccent Table Club Chair

APRIL BRINGS A SHOWER OF SPECIAL DEALS AND SAVINGS

NEW LOCATION—CORNER OF ELLSWORTH INDUSTRIAL & OLD CHATTAHOOCHEE AVE.

Vote for your Fab 40 favorite by April 5th!

Photo by Sawyer Photography

For more event listings, visit AtlantaHomeImprovement.comHave a home improvement question or news tip? Send to [email protected].



1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. Atlanta, GA

Hours MON/SAT 10am to 5pm

404-355-4151

www.greatvaluefurniture.com

BESTVALUE IN BETTER

FURNITURE!

Over

60% Off

RetailHuge

Leather

Sale

Mattress $797 Dresser $697 Leather Sofa $1277 $227 $447Hooker RoundAccent Table Club Chair

APRIL BRINGS A SHOWER OF SPECIAL DEALS AND SAVINGS

NEW LOCATION—CORNER OF ELLSWORTH INDUSTRIAL & OLD CHATTAHOOCHEE AVE.



P lanters | Design/Build / Instal lation: Residential , $50,000-$150,000


Unique Envir onmental | Design/Build/ Instal lation:Residential , under $50,000

gardeninspirationAnd The Winner Is…Spring has sprung! Let’s get inspired to upgrade our outdoor spaces !

We thought we’d show you some stunning projects completed by

members of the Urban Agriculture Council. Here are the

“Judges’ Choice” winners of the 2014 Professional Landscape Awards.

C hatham | Design/Build/ Instal lation:Seasonal co lor - C ommercial

P lanters | Design/Build/ Instal lation: C ommercial , $75,000-$200,000

Fockele | Landscape Management : Residential

Bennett Design | Design/Build/ Instal lation: Residential , under $50,000

0415_018-019_Urban Garden page.indd 18 3/20/15 9:42 AM


P lanters | Design/Build/ Instal lation: C ommercial , $75,000-$200,000

770.235.6929decksandmore.biz

OUTDOOR KITCHENS

SCREENED-IN PORCHES

CUSTOM DECKS

ADDITIONS & SUNROOMS

BASEMENTS & BATHROOMS

2015 Regional CotY Award Winner for Residential Exterior

FREE ESTIMATES

All WorkGuaranteed

Before

Sidewalks, Driveways, Pool Decks,

Floors, Steps, Patios, Porches,

Basements, Garages and More!

770-516-4476www.b-levelse.com

Don’t allow settling to ruin your concrete! Don’t allow settling to ruin your concrete! Concrete Lifting & Leveling

AFTERPLUS… Are your block walls bowed? Call us to � x them.

Repair your existing concrete andSAVE 30-70%

CTI Resurfacing of Georgia 770.753.4900

www.ctiga.com

• Concrete Acid Staining• Acrylic Cement Overlay

• Dura�eck Floor Finish• Euro Bond Countertops

“Custom Concrete Accents �at Makes a Di�erence”

Decorative Concrete Resurfacing

• Patios

• Pool Decks

• Interior Floors

• Garage Floors

• Driveways

• Sidewalks

0415_018-019_Urban Garden page.indd 19 3/20/15 9:42 AM


Natural �bers, linens,

and linen blends are all

trending in fabrics right

now. They have made a

huge footprint in the

design industry. We are

seeing linens in every

color and the solid

neutrals seem to be the

most popular. Shades of

beige, taupe and grays

have a soft elegant look.

Linens can be printed,

and even embroidered.

A tone-on-tone

embroidered linen gives

you a modern but

classic look, without

being fussy. Even if you

choose solid linen you

can add a decorative

tape/�at braid down the

leading edge of panels

for a timeless, classic

look. We are seeing a

wide choice of textures,

and colors, from plain

linen, to Greek key, or

even embroidered

tapes. Tapes can also

give your pillows and

lampshades a tailored

modern updated look.

For rugs, an eclectic,

modern vibe is in

these days. Expect to

see a more sophisti-

cated look for 2015,

especially the

surprising return of

luxurious rugs, i.e.

Oushak rugs, with pale

colors and soft

textures. Handmade

rugs are still a classic

and remain relevant by

utilizing updated

colors. Painterly Rug

designs resembling

abstract paintings are

also in, especially

those rendered in silk

that seem to shimmer

and even change color.

Finally, there is nothing

more “sophisticated”

than the cowhide rug

for today’s modern, yet

approachable design

aesthetic. What’s out?

Over dyed patchwork

and Persian designs.

The shaggy Moroccan

black-and-whites are

also overexposed and

out.

Interchange-able

covers that slip on

over an existing pillow

can inexpensively

breathe new life into

your decor. Faux silk

throw pillows and

shiny textures are

associated with luxury

and opulence. Add a

pop of color with rich

jewel-toned throw

pillows. Or stick to

neutral silk throw

pillows for an

understated touch.

Bold graphic

patterns are the

perfect way to make a

statement without

overwhelming the

room.

Textured pillows are a

great way to add

variety to your room

design and are a nice

contrast to shiny

textures of wood and

glass. It’s also a good

way to add variety

without adding

additional patterns.

expertpanel

Trendy TextilesIn honor of National Decorating Month, what are the newest textile trends? What’s in and what’s out?

ALI INAL Designer Rug Warehouse

LANA FAIRCHILD Fabric & Fringe Warehouse

If you’re looking to

update your bedding

here are some new

trendy ideas to do just

that.

Metallics are really hot!

Adding metallic

embellishments is a

great way to bring

“bling “into your

bedroom.

Or maybe you like the

beach? Navy blue and

white are good choices

for a more

sophisticated coastal

look. Another option is

using neutrals with

pops of corals, oranges,

yellows or aquas.

For a more dramatic

look, try the trendy

emerald green and

white.

Finally, gathered bed

skirts are very out right

now. If you want a bed

skirt, a nice, clean,

straight lined tailored

look is what’s “in” for

2015.

MARY JO COOPERCC Designs Atlanta

What’s out in window

treatments? We often

hear from customers

who are frustrated with

their unsightly, non-

functioning unevenly

hanging shades. So it’s

no surprise that more

and more of our

customers have fallen

in love with motorized

shades.

This is an ef�cient,

streamlined solution

that I think will

continue to gain

popularity in 2015.

You can now even

operate your shades

from your smart phone

or iPad!

Motorized shades are

available in different

fabrics and colors,

which allows you to

customize your shades

to match any decor. For

colors, we are seeing a

trend in window

treatments toward blue

and gray shades, as well

a return to classic,

timeless beige.

MARINA MOROZOVALumen Solution LLC

DEIDRA CUNNINGHAMIKEA

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A beautiful solutionfor a busy kitchen.Spend less time cleaning with Perfect Drain,™

a beautiful, seamless drain that won’t trap dirt or grime. Available in a range of styles ideal for any home.

Learn more at www.elkay.com

perfect drain™

traditional drain

MODELS:SINK: ELUH31229RPDFAUCET: LKHA1031CR

Available at

770-458-2111

0415_020-021_textile-expert panel.indd 20 3/23/15 2:48 PM

A beautiful solutionfor a busy kitchen.Spend less time cleaning with Perfect Drain,™

a beautiful, seamless drain that won’t trap dirt or grime. Available in a range of styles ideal for any home.

Learn more at www.elkay.com

perfect drain™

traditional drain

MODELS:SINK: ELUH31229RPDFAUCET: LKHA1031CR

Available at

770-458-2111

0415_020-021_textile-expert panel.indd 21 3/20/15 9:42 AM

“How do I get the greatest return on my investment?”

This is a question every homeowner faces whenever they

decide to remodel.

Unfortunately, there’s no

easy answer or simple

formula. This is because

what a buyer might be

willing to pay for that

improved home can

depend on many factors,

like the choice of project,

the materials used, the

value of other homes in

your neighborhood and

so on.

But—still—it’s important

to at least have some

idea of what your

improvements might be

worth. Broadly speaking,

there are a few solid home

improvement truths.

1. Kitchens and baths are

almost always the �rst

rooms a buyer will focus

on, so while these rooms can be the most costly to redo,

they’re more likely to pay for themselves.

2. Adding rooms like a new family room or master suite

also tends to fare well at resale time.

3. There are other, more speci�c ways to be judicious when

making improvements. New paint, new counters, new

appliances, a new sink, new faucet and hardware for the

kitchen can change the look and update the home.

4. Simply adding a new bathroom vanity, faucet,

showerhead or paint can go a long way. (Assuming the

tile or �ooring is in good shape.)

5. Spending more money does not always equal more

value. Pools and sunrooms are a good example of that.

While these items may be something you enjoy, very few

people are willing to pay extra for these.

6. Another thing to keep in mind is the neighborhood and

home style. Make sure you do not over-improve for the

neighborhood. For example: in a neighborhood that has

mostly three bedroom, two bath homes, you would not

want to add another two bedrooms and a bath, thereby

making it the largest and most expensive home in the

neighborhood.

7. Be sure to improve in keeping with the home’s style. If

your home is a 1920s bungalow, then be sure to try to stick

to classic, neutral choices

and period moldings.

8. Typically you can

expect to make

between 70 percent

and 90 percent

back on your home

improvement

investment dollar

—sometimes more,

sometimes less—

within the �rst year or

two.

By remodeling smart,

you can increase and

even make money on

the improvement the

longer you stay in the

home. As with any

investment, it’s the quiet

power of compounding

that creates good returns.

By being in the home a longer period of time, you give the

real estate market time to increase and you leverage the

remodeling investment as property values grow.

In general, when deciding whether or not a home

improvement project is a good investment consider this:

how your project impacts your home’s appraised value;

how long you plan to be in the home; how strong the resale

market is in your area.”

Happy renovating!

ThePayoff – Real Estate ROI

Invest Wisely: 8 Ways to Get More Bang for Your Home Improvement Buck

Linda Lehsten has been a realtor, investor

and renovator for 20 years and specializes

in the in-town market. Decatur, Candler

Park, Old Fourth Ward, VaHi, Morningside

and Inman Park are just a few of the

neighborhoods she knows well. She is

currently working at Keller Knapp Realty

and can be reached at LindaLehsten.com

for more info.

Three factors determine your project’s ROI. Will it impact your home’s appraised value, how long will you be in the home and how

strong is your area’s resale market?


0415_022-025_Real-estate.indd 22 3/23/15 2:54 PM

www.howardpayne.com770.451.0136

We’ve been in business at the same location for 38 years. Now come visit us at

our new location and showroom3600 American Drive,

Atlanta, Georgia 30341

Home Repairs and Bath Specialists


0415_022-025_Real-estate.indd 23 3/23/15 2:54 PM

Save hundreds of dollars on your energy bills with customized systems.

We provide heating and cooling solutions that stand up to Georgia weather and offer highly competitive pricing.

Blue Horizon’s Customer for Life

BHCool.com678-279-2244

•FreeinhomeEstimates

•3yearwarrantypartsandlaboronallrepairs

•FreeHoneywell120VTreatmentUVlightsinglebulbinstalledwithfurnaceoroutdoorACorheatpump

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•PrecisionTune-up

•$89.00servicecall

•Weserviceallmajorbrands

18 Months • 0% Financing AvailableCall us for a consultation and see a showcase of our work on our website

www. totallydependable.com770 509 7498

Find a contractorwho sees only one vision - Yours.

Totally Dependable Contracting Services

specializes in all areas of residential

remodeling.Our family run business

has taken pride in providing high quality design and renovation solutions since 1987.

0415_022-025_Real-estate.indd 24 3/20/15 9:42 AM

Save hundreds of dollars on your energy bills with customized systems.

We provide heating and cooling solutions that stand up to Georgia weather and offer highly competitive pricing.

Blue Horizon’s Customer for Life

BHCool.com678-279-2244

•FreeinhomeEstimates

•3yearwarrantypartsandlaboronallrepairs

•FreeHoneywell120VTreatmentUVlightsinglebulbinstalledwithfurnaceoroutdoorACorheatpump

•FreewirelessHoneywellT-statandMerv11filterandcabinetinstalledwithcompletesystemchangeout

•PrecisionTune-up

•$89.00servicecall

•Weserviceallmajorbrands

18 Months • 0% Financing AvailableCall us for a consultation and see a showcase of our work on our website

www. totallydependable.com770 509 7498

Find a contractorwho sees only one vision - Yours.

Totally Dependable Contracting Services

specializes in all areas of residential

remodeling.Our family run business

has taken pride in providing high quality design and renovation solutions since 1987.

0415_022-025_Real-estate.indd 25 3/20/15 9:42 AM

CONTEST WINNERS

In honor of National Decorating Month we issued you a challenge and you really rose to the occasion.

For our 2015 “Decorating on a Dime” Contest we asked if you could transform a room for under $1,000.

With some creativity, a few repurposed items and a whole lot of vision, our winners made the “old” look

beautifully new again. In the next few pages, you’ll meet our winners and learn their stories and see exactly

how they afforded it all. We hope their nifty � nds and ingenuity will help you with your next project.

(Tip: Make sure to take photos and document your progress because you might be next year’s winner!)

Atlanta! You knocked it out of the park...

Phot

ogra

ph

y by

Em

ily

Cam

eron


0415_026-035-DOD.indd 26 3/24/15 3:49 PM

Winner - Alisha Nesbitt transformed her son’s nursery into this girly, gorgeous nursery for her new daughter Rian for $899.54

Decorating for a princess! That was the vision I had in mind before I started and nothing less than perfect would do for our Rian.

I transformed my son’s old nursery into a nursery for my daughter who was born on December 29th.Though the

transformation looks dramatic, I actually kept it pretty simple. I only had to wallpaper just one wall plus I changed the paint color and refurbished and upholstered

the crib.

I ordered the wallpaper from Graham and Brown online

and Neal Schwartz is the independent contractor who

painted the room and hung the wallpaper!

I also repurposed furniture from other parts of the house to cut costs. The mirrored vanity has been sitting in my closet unused for six

years. I decided to pull it out of the closet and pass it

on to my daughter. The vanity gives the room the perfect

touch for a “Princess” themed nursery. So does the pink glitter crown

that we recycled from her baby shower!

BEFORE

Crib .........................................$199.54

New rug ..................................$175.00

Wallpaper ...............................$150.00

Paint and wallpaper labor .......$375.00

Budget


0415_026-035-DOD.indd 27 3/24/15 3:49 PM

2nd PlaceJae Vinson, Blogger at Design O.C.D. transformed her guest room for $260

Homemade burlap headboard ................... $80

Fuchsia curtains (Amazon.com) .................. $60

White bed skirt with navy blue stripes ........ $30

Paint .............................................................. $47

Fabric .............................................................. $3

Sunburst mirror (HomeGoods) .................... $40

Inspiration can come from anywhere! Mine came from that pair of fuchsia curtains. The newly painted white wall enabled me to bring in color and interest with new fabric and paint (the existing pieces were refreshed) and a few new accessories were added. I used my original paintings on the wall along with some plates from Target and Crate & Barrel I already owned. Then I purchased a new sunburst mirror. I did not replace the sheets or duvet cover but purchased a new bed skirt. No new furniture was

purchased for this makeover. I actually made the burlap headboard with a nailhead trim and painted the dresser. On this miniscule budget, I still ended up with a room that suits my taste. It now

feels more modern and even more welcoming.

Budge

tCONTEST WINNERS

BEFORE

From Conception to Completion

770-443-1917 | ccdesignatlanta.com

From Conception to Completion

Design and RenovationW A R E H O U S E

770-794-81062440 Canton Road • Marietta, GA 30066

www.FabricsAndFringe.com


S H O P A N Y T I M E O N L I N E A Twww.FabricsAndFringe.com

THE SOUTH’S LARGEST IN-STOCK SELECTION


0415_026-035-DOD.indd 28 3/23/15 3:19 PM

3rd PlaceNancy Minnich redecorated her daughter’s bedroom for $457

Floor sealer (Hardwood Floors Unlimited) ...............$50

Quarter round (Hardwood Floors Unlimited) ..........$15

Rug (IKEA) .................................................................$60

Paint (Lowes) .............................................................$63

Primer (Lowes) ..........................................................$20

Closet light (Lowes) ...................................................$24

Door hinges and hardware (Lowes) .........................$24

Curtains (Marshalls) ..................................................$40

Chandelier (My Favorite Place) ................................$40

Rent a sander (Sunbelt Rental) ..............................$121

Inspired by Lilly Pulitzer! It was time to update the purple, yellow, & orange

walled bedroom belonging to our daughter. Her inspiration was a pink � oral

Lilly Pulitzer duvet cover. My husband and I primed and painted the walls

and ceiling. We removed the shag carpet and uncovered hardwood � oors.

We sanded and sealed the � oors and installed quarter round molding. The

bi-fold closet doors were replaced with louvered doors and we replaced the

dated ceiling fan and light with a chandelier. We re-purposed the curtain rods,

bedding and rugs. While still girlie, the room is now bright & inviting.

Budget

BEFORE

Custom Frames For Existing Mirrorswww.FrameItMirrorDesigns.com 770.314.9087

YOUR BATHROOMMIRRORS!• esignerConsultation•Professional nstallation•Hugevarietyofdesignerstyles• Mirror Removal Not Required

REVITALIZE

Custom Frames For Existing Mirrors

Call today for the finishing touch!


0415_026-035-DOD.indd 29 3/23/15 3:19 PM

Chairs (Medical Supply House ) ...........$159.00

Rug (Target) .............................................$49.99

Paint ......................................................$100.64

Curtains & Rods (Target) ........................$ 53.48

Tables (Craigslist Seller) ..........................$75.00

Flooring ..................................................$260.65

Lamps & Shades (Target) .......................$49.96

The lobby had an old, black futon, chairs, a plastic tree and horrible carpeting. The walls were

yellow and orange. I had to � nd seating that was as durable, comfortable and stylish. I had to

� nd something that would accommodate people of all body types. I searched Craigslist for

of� ce furniture and lobby furniture. I initially found what I thought was a great set of chairs

online. But when I went to purchase the chairs, they really weren’t as cool as they looked in the

photo. I spied the chairs that I ended up buying, hidden behind a bunch of medical beds. I got a great

deal because there were only 5 chairs, not a set of 6. The chairs will hold weight up to nearly 300 lbs. The

chairs I was going to purchase were $275 for the set. The ones I got were better...and less expensive!

Budje

tProfessional WinnerWe couldn’t resist this pretty lobby makeover. After all, aren’t our workplaces often “home away from home”?Laura Anzures, Daniel’s Floors transformed this lobby for $748.72

CONTEST WINNERS

BEFORE

AuthorA StyleThat’s

Uniquely You

www.modafloorsandinteriors.com

Carpet Area Rugs Hardwood Natural Stone Designer Tile Window Coverings

West Midtown Design DistrictBrookhaven Town Center

404.477.3744

AuthorA StyleThat’s

Uniquely You

www.modafloorsandinteriors.com

Carpet Area Rugs Hardwood Natural Stone Designer Tile Window Coverings

West Midtown Design DistrictBrookhaven Town Center

404.477.3744

Carpet ◆ Area Rugs ◆ Hardwood ◆ Natural Stone Designer Tile ◆ Window Coverings

c a b i n e t sCreators of fine

furniture, cabinets andcustom woodworksfor over 20 years

Call for pricing at

770-921-2569 or visit us at the RFS Showroom!www.rfscabinets.net

Custom Cabinets & Furniture

Creators of custom woodwork for over 20 years

Full service from Designing • Building • Installing

Exceptional Cabinetry at Affordable PricesPARTNERSHIP WITH DESIGNERS AND INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS WELCOME

BEFORE


0415_026-035-DOD.indd 30 3/23/15 3:19 PM

ProfessionalHonorable MentionWhile this makeover cost a bit more than our limit, we simply had to include the submission from Sunshine On A Ranney Day, which is a wonderful nonpro� t organization. They create dream room makeovers for children with long-term illnesses or disabilities. We are proud to help spread the word about this fantastic, inspiring group!

The beginning of the story is tragic. At 4 years old, Brianna Hudson was riding in her family’s car when it was hit head-on by a Corvette driven by a teenager. The driver and

passenger in the Corvette were killed and Briana was left with serious injuries to her brain and spinal cord. Through her family’s faith in God and extensive therapy, Briana can

now get around using a wheel chair. Since Briana needed to be on the main � oor, she was sharing her parent’s bedroom. That’s when Sunshine on a Ranney Day, a non-pro� t organization

whose motto is, “We don’t just make rooms, we make room for hope!”, stepped in. Their charity uses professionals to help kids with long-term illnesses. They renovated the garage and transformed it into Briana’s dream bedroom with a wheelchair ramp and handicap accessible bathroom. For more information about this incredible makeover (and organization!) visit http://bit.ly/ranneybriana

A Kohler Next Generation Showroom

Like us on Facebook1295 Field Parkway • Marietta, GA • 770.422.1700Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our showroom consultants

Sensate Touchless Kitchen Faucet

Hands Free Device–No Blue Tooth Required

L to R: Denise Hudson, Holly Ranney,Briana Hudson, Peter Ranney, Brian Robins,

Sgt. Buddy Mays, Danny Hudson

BEFORE


0415_026-035-DOD.indd 31 3/23/15 3:20 PM

404.352.8141 www.myerscarpetatlanta.com 1500 northside drive, atlanta, ga 30318

MyersC A R P E T

styles to fit your stylestyles to fit your style

LANAI – CHAMBRAY IN STOCK TODAY

0415_026-035-DOD.indd 32 3/20/15 9:43 AM

$1,000prize

packageawarded to

winner,Alisha Nesbitt

by

Ikea.com

FabricsAndFringe.com

MasterpieceLighting.com

W A R E H O U S E


www.FabricsAndFringe.com

Did you know you could get everything on this pagefor under $1000?

Upgrading your decor is affordable and fun at IKEA!

Come get inspired at Atlantic Station andbring home a “new room” of your own!

Storage table$69

Pendant Lamp$69.99

Cushion$19.99

Curtain$19.99

Highback Armchair$499

Low P ile Rug$79.99

Phot

os c

ourt

esy

of I

nte

r IK

EA S

yste

ms

B.V

. 201

5

404.352.8141 www.myerscarpetatlanta.com 1500 northside drive, atlanta, ga 30318

MyersC A R P E T

styles to fit your stylestyles to fit your style

LANAI – CHAMBRAY IN STOCK TODAY

$500 Gift Card

$250 Gift Certifi cate

$250 Gift Certifi cate

CONTEST


0415_026-035-DOD.indd 33 3/24/15 12:14 PM

Contact Mike Kunkel at 706-669-4177or [email protected] Visit www.estatesatcoveredbridge.com

Disconnect from your busy world &Discover the north Georgia mountains

at Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay, GA.

A peaceful mountain community less than a hour north of Atlanta!

Whether you’re searching for your first mountain home, vacation retreat or planning your retirement, Covered Bridge Estates is right for you.

Our community o�ers an abundance of lifestyle opportunities. Watch wildlife from your balcony. Take a leisurely walk on paved roads throughout the gated community. Covered Bridge Estates is just a stone's throw away from Carter's Lake and the entrance to the Appalachian Trail where recreation opportunities such as hiking, boating, and mountain biking abound. Enjoy the convenience of local vineyards, dining & antique shops. Visit the historic downtown square, and enjoy the Annual Apple Festival. Covered Bridge Estates... the next place you will want to call home.

Community Features· Professionally planned community· Gated entrance w/cameras· Homesites starting in mid 30's· 1 to 3-acre build-able homesites

· Model open daily· Homes starting in mid 200's · Several home plans to choose from 1700 - 2500 sq. ft. of living area

* Certain restrictions apply. Must be a Georgia Power single-family customer. $550 rebate for 18 SEER (or higher) traditional or 16 SEER (or higher) VRF conversions. $400 rebate for 15 SEER (or higher) heat pumps and $200 rebate for 13 or 14.9 SEER heat pump conversions. Equipment must be installed by a participating dealer by August 31, 2015, with notifi cation to Georgia Power by August 31, 2015. For all available Georgia Power rebates, visit georgiapower.com/rebates.

©2015 Georgia Power Company. All rights reserved.

Put one of the most advanced and effi cient heating and cooling systems to work in your home. You’ll stay cool all summer and toasty all winter while saving on your monthly energy costs. Customers who convert from a natural gas furnace to an 18 SEER or higher traditional or 16 SEER or higher VRF heat pump can qualify for a $550* rebate; customers who convert from a natural gas furnace to a 15 SEER or higher heat pump can qualify for up to a $400* rebate. For details call 1-800-524-2421, Ext. 850, or visit georgiapower.com/heatpump.

SAVE, SAVESITUATION.

IT’S A

Switch now to an energy-effi cient heat pump.

GET – UP TO –

$550

0415_026-035-DOD.indd 34 3/20/15 9:43 AM

Contact Mike Kunkel at 706-669-4177or [email protected] Visit www.estatesatcoveredbridge.com

Disconnect from your busy world &Discover the north Georgia mountains

at Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay, GA.

A peaceful mountain community less than a hour north of Atlanta!

Whether you’re searching for your first mountain home, vacation retreat or planning your retirement, Covered Bridge Estates is right for you.

Our community o�ers an abundance of lifestyle opportunities. Watch wildlife from your balcony. Take a leisurely walk on paved roads throughout the gated community. Covered Bridge Estates is just a stone's throw away from Carter's Lake and the entrance to the Appalachian Trail where recreation opportunities such as hiking, boating, and mountain biking abound. Enjoy the convenience of local vineyards, dining & antique shops. Visit the historic downtown square, and enjoy the Annual Apple Festival. Covered Bridge Estates... the next place you will want to call home.

Community Features· Professionally planned community· Gated entrance w/cameras· Homesites starting in mid 30's· 1 to 3-acre build-able homesites

· Model open daily· Homes starting in mid 200's · Several home plans to choose from 1700 - 2500 sq. ft. of living area

* Certain restrictions apply. Must be a Georgia Power single-family customer. $550 rebate for 18 SEER (or higher) traditional or 16 SEER (or higher) VRF conversions. $400 rebate for 15 SEER (or higher) heat pumps and $200 rebate for 13 or 14.9 SEER heat pump conversions. Equipment must be installed by a participating dealer by August 31, 2015, with notifi cation to Georgia Power by August 31, 2015. For all available Georgia Power rebates, visit georgiapower.com/rebates.

©2015 Georgia Power Company. All rights reserved.

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W H A T T H EINSIDERS

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41

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Romancing the Stone – Pros & Cons of Travertine Tileby Enhance Floors & More

No More Cold Feet! – Consider Underfoot Heating for Your Homeby Atlanta Design & Build

Don’t sweat the HVAC stuff - How to Choose YourHeating and Air Provider by Cool Air Mechanical

How To Make Your Closet Feel Like A Luxury Spaceby Artisan Custom Closets


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Travertine is a natural stone and popular building material, used in everything from � oors, countertops, backsplashes, � replace surrounds, showers and sinks. It can be polished, honed or textured.

But is it right for your home? Check out these pros and cons and decide!

Pros:

Aesthetic appeal: Travertine tile has a luxurious appearance and comes in a wide variety of colors, from muted neutral shades to bright bold coral tones.

Ageless appearance: Travertine already looks weathered and is truly timeless. The Colosseum in Rome is composed mostly of travertine!

Cost: Travertine is as attractive and durable as marble, but costs less.

Impervious to temperature extremes: Travertine can stand up to extreme heat and cold.

Nonslip: The natural non-slip texture of travertine makes it a good � ooring choice.

Cons:

Porosity: Travertine is a very porous stone and even when the holes are � lled in, the materials used to � ll in the holes can wear down over time.

Acid sensitivity: Travertine is composed of calcium carbonate, which is highly reactive to vinegar, orange juice and other weak acid foods. Not ideal for kitchen counters!

Lack of uniform appearance: As travertine is a naturally occurring stone, not all the tiles in the shipment will look exactly the same.

Maintenance: A natural, soft stone, travertine is subject to staining and etching. Special products are required to clean and maintain its surface.

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Romancing the Stone – Pros & Cons of Travertine

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Where should you install heated fl ooring?The most obvious place to add heated � ooring is in the bathroom. (This is especially ideal for bathrooms over a garage, where there is unheated space underneath.) Additionally, we have found that basements, kitchens and sunrooms also bene� t from a heated � oor. Because the product is a completely sealed system, it allows for installation on shower � oors, and bench seats as well.

Underfl oor heating is safe, cost effective, and energy effi cient:Unlike heated air, the radiant heat used in under� oor heating does not dry out the room. It operates on a low voltage system that does not require much energy. You can also pick zones, and run your heated � oor on a timer.

Once installed, what maintenance do I need to worry about? Will it ever stop working?Our company has used a product called Speedheat on numerous occasions over the past nine years, and we have not experienced any maintenance issues whatsoever, the installations are in perfect working order.

Can heated fl oor systems be installed under fl ooring other than tiles?Yes, depending on the heating element company. With Speedheat, we can help our clients heat tile, hardwood, and even carpet � ooring.

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Make sure your HVAC company is licensed, bonded and insured. In addition, a reputable company will “pull a permit” which means that they don’t cut corners and are not afraid to have their work scrutinized.

Ask if technicians are employees or subcontrac-tors. A full service company has better quality control over employees, with training to create a consistent method of installation, service and repair.

Make sure that technicians are background checked and drug tested. A reputable, full service company will have already done this to insure that they can trust the person who is being sent to your home.

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inFrom shiny metallics to wood-inspired hues, new tile trends are popping up all over Atlanta!

Tiled

By Kathy Kantorski

Porcelain: Crossvil le’s Shades Tile

Known as much for its strength as its

aesthetic, tile is the material of choice for

most kitchen and bathroom �oors. But it

can do so much more! Thanks to updated

manufacturing technologies and expanding trends,

there are now more ways than ever to incorporate tile

into your home.

Here’s a guide to tile types and trends, plus some tips

on installation and maintenance.


0415_046-055_Tiled in style.indd 46 3/24/15 12:21 PM

Glass Mosaic : Crossvil le’s Sideview Tile

Porcelain: Crossvil le’s Reclamation Tile

Photo courtesy of Crossville Tile & Stone



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Porcelain planksNeed a �oor that can withstand your family’s wear, tear

and spills? Then consider porcelain, which is available in

many different �nish options. “Glazed porcelain tiles are

much harder and more wear- and damage-resistant than

non-porcelain ceramic tiles, making them suitable for any

application, from light traf�c to the heaviest residential and

light commercial traf�c,” say Elisabeth Stubbs and Mallory

Bernard of Enhance Floors and More.

“Full-body porcelain tiles carry the color and pattern through

the entire thickness of the tile, making them virtually

impervious to wear and suitable for any application, from

residential to the highest-traf�c commercial or industrial

applications,” Stubbs says.

The front entryway is also a popular location for porcelain

tile installations, although, according to Seble Mengistu of

Pineapple House Design, you need to consider the adjoining

rooms. “In Georgia’s high-end homes, the material used in

the entry generally continues to the other main-�oor areas.”

So if you prefer wood �ooring in your living room, Mengistu

recommends installing a tile and wood mix in the entryway.

Speaking of mixing wood and tiles, you can now have the

best of both worlds with tiles that have been made to look

like wood planks. This material has been gaining popularity

and improved offerings over the last couple of years, and now

it’s the hottest trend in tile. “Wood-look tiles are getting more

and more popular and they’re starting to look a lot more like

wood—I love this look!” says designer Erica Nicole Illions with

Snappy Kitchens. “Wood �oors are a great look, but a lot of

people worry about having to re�nish them and potential water

damage issues. Wood-look tiles are an awesome alternative—

they don’t have to be re�nished, and water won’t hurt them.”

Illions isn’t the only one singing the praises of this tile.

Stubbs and Bernard call wood-look tiles a “hot design trend

on the rise,” and note that the tiles come in a variety of

plank lengths, mimic many different species of wood and

even offer a handscraped aesthetic. The tiles are made

of porcelain, which is one of, if not the most durable tile

material available, and today’s inkjet technology means

that, “until you touch them, these planks are pretty much

indistinguishable from hardwood,” says Lisa Laube of Floor &

Decor. “Not only are they low maintenance, but these wood-

look tiles can go where it’s impractical for hardwood: think

basements, bathrooms, utility rooms and more.”

Go big or go home“Bigger is better when it comes to today’s tile trends,” Laube

says. “We have 24-inch tiles and bigger �ying off the shelves.

A 32-inch tile can seem overwhelming, but in reality, a large

tile is actually less distracting than smaller, traditional tiles

because there are fewer grout lines. Plus, less grout lines also

means less maintenance.”

Porcelain: Saint Barth Barbanera Wood P lank C opper Slate by American Olean

Cecilia glass blend by Bisazzae

Photos courtesy of (left to right) Floor & Decor; Specialty Tile





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www.designerworldtile.com AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT APRIL 2015 49


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Local experts all note

that this “the bigger,

the better” trend

is here to stay, and

that the previously

standard 12-by-12-

inch square tiles

are now outdated.

However, the

installation process

for these larger tiles

can be tricky.

“If you’re installing

a 12-by-24-inch

tile, make sure you

have a tile layer

who is pro�cient at

installing this tile,”

says Ann Wisniewski

of AJW Designs Inc.

“Ceramic in that

shape bows slightly during �ring, and when you lay it, you

have to alternate the seams, otherwise they will not lay

evenly.”

Theresa Minkoff with Moda Floors and Interiors also advises

laying large-format rectangular porcelain tile in one-third

stagger brick joints instead of half-stagger brick joints to

avoid “lippage” that results from bowed tiles.

Patterns and texturesTextured or molded tiles are also becoming very popular

in the design world. Minkoff notes that these tiles can

have fabric, wood and leather textures, as well as molded

waves, offering a unique look (and feel!) to your home’s

walls.

Another new material trend is patterned concrete tiles,

also known as encaustic tiles. “Encaustic tiles offer

beautiful, unique designs and patterns,” says Berk

Ozbarlas, of Arketype. “In the manufacturing process, the

paint actually goes through the tile, so even if you sand

the surface and reseal it in the future, you will never lose

your design. This is a great option for �oors that receive a

lot of wear and tear.”

Some homeowners are using several different natural

stones in a tile pattern or doing a mixed-media application

by adding metallic and mirror accents alongside the stone

tiles for a unique design. But even those who want to stick

with one tile material are no longer constrained to a typical

grid pattern. Designers are now creating one-third brick-

joint patterns, along with herringbone, offset, Versailles,

hopscotch and chevron motifs.

Feras Irikat of Lunada Bay Tile adds, “It’s moving tile from a

simple, practical surface into a realm of art.”

Hue cues“Try color!” Irikat exclaims. “In the past, people relied on

earth tones to decorate their spaces, and now people are

getting bolder with their color choices. You’re seeing vibrant

hues, soft pastels, metallic �nishes and everything in

between.” Ozbarlas agrees, and advises homeowners not to

be afraid of expanding their horizons past white or beige tile

options. “There are so many great color options out there

in ceramic, porcelain and glass. Even pairing white tile with

a colorful feature, such as a glass mosaic backsplash, can

provide new life to your home.”

Photos courtesy of Floor & Decor

Marble: Crema Marfil C lassic Premium Travertine: Argento Brushed Stick

These tile trends may be on their way out:

Do

n’t

Be

Dat

ed

•

•

•

•

•

•

•



GOR USDiscover beautiful, sustainable

design with infi nitely inspiring tile

solutions from Crossville. Our

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Meet the Yin + Yang Natural Stone

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See the latest collections from Crossville at our showroom located at:

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Tile Best Uses Average Cost Pros Cons (materials only)

Sheet vinyl: $2 per sq. ft. Luxury vinyl tile: $3 per sq. ft.

Vinyl Kitchen flooringComfortable to stand on; quick installation; bendable material works well for floors that may experience movement or cracks

Not known for beauty or durability; should not be installed in areas where constant moisture is expected, such as a shower or tub surround or exterior applications

Laminate Flooring for laundry rooms and mudrooms

$2.50 per sq. ft. Inexpensive; low-maintenance; easy to install

Less water resistant than other tile options

Ceramic Floors, interior feature walls, backsplashes, decorative accents, shower surround

$3 per sq. ft. Common, affordable material; easy to cut for DIYer

Hard, cold surface when compared to vinyl and laminate options; unlike natural stone where edges can be left raw, ceramic-tile edges require finished bullnose pieces

Porcelain Floors, interior feature walls, backsplashes, decorative accents, shower surround

$4 per sq. ft. Water absorption is less than 0.5 percent, making this tile nonporous and ideal for wet conditions; offered in wood-look designs; fire resistant; can be used over radiant heat; some manufacturers, such as Crossville, incorporate recycled material into their porcelain tiles

Dense and brittle when cutting (not for an average DIYer)

Slate Floors, walls, backsplashes, design accents, interior and exterior applications

$5 per sq. ft. Timeless aesthetic; water resistant; textured (not slippery); durable; easy to clean and maintain; dark color of slate tiles camouflages dirt and pet hair; antibacterial; can be used over radiant heat

High maintenance (can stain, requires special cleaners, requires annual sealing)

Travertine Floors, walls, backsplashes, design accents, interior and exterior applications

$5 per sq. ft. Classic, versatile and multipurpose stone with texture and neutral tones; a lightweight alternative to marble; stands the test of time (it was used to build Rome’s Colosseum!)

Polished tiles are too slippery for flooring (use porous, honed or tumbled travertine instead); can be damaged by acidic liquids—clean up spills and pet accidents quickly to avoid issues

Glass Feature walls, backsplashes, decorative accents, shower and tub surrounds

$10 per sq. ft. Reflects light, making small spaces look larger; mildew resistant; stain resistant; offered in recycled materials for the eco-conscious homeowner

Expensive; requires installation by a skilled contractor; not many floor-rated options available

Concrete Floors (bathroom, kitchen, mudroom, laundry room)

$10 per sq. ft. Durable; pattern is built through entire tile so it can be sanded and resealed as needed

Thick material—area may need to be adjusted to accommodate

Carrara marble

Bathroom counters, floors and shower surrounds

$20 per sq. ft. Similar in appearance to Calacatta, only with softer veining; easier to find than Calacatta

Though not as costly as Calacatta, it is still more expensive than many other types of tile, and requires regular maintenance

Calacatta marble

Bathroom counters, floors and shower surrounds

$30 per sq. ft. Makes a strong impression with its crisp white color and strong gray, golden or pink veins; offers a simple and classic look

Expensive; requires regular maintenance

What’s Your Type?Use this chart as a “rule of thumb” guide to choosing the right tile for your home. As always,

we recommend you consult an expert before making any �nal buying decisions!

About the groutWhen shopping for tile, you can easily become captivated by

the tile designs and materials and overlook the grout, deciding

on this seemingly insigni�cant part of the project at the last

minute. But it’s not insigni�cant! Just the color of grout can

alter the look of the whole installation! “Always upgrade the

color of the grout!” Minkoff says. “There are so many great

new grouts on the market, touting stain resistance and color

consistency.” Wisniewski agrees, adding that she highly

recommends grout with pre-mixed sealer added. “There is a

urethane grout that is wonderful,” she notes.

Want to avoid the grout as much as possible? Shop for

tiles with recti�ed edges, Illions says. “Recti�ed edges

allow tiles to lay very close to each other so grout lines are

much smaller, but this also increases the complexity of the

installation and is often more costly.”

GOR USDiscover beautiful, sustainable

design with infi nitely inspiring tile

solutions from Crossville. Our

exclusive Natural Stone collections

lend style and substance to

distinctive spaces everywhere.

Meet the Yin + Yang Natural Stone

Collection, by Crossville.

See the latest collections from Crossville at our showroom located at:

Crossville Tile & Stone - Atlanta1256 Oakbrook Drive, Suite FNorcross, GA 30093(678) 527 - 8453 | crossvilletileandstone.com



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Before



“Grout joints that are less than one-eighth inch or thinner

are more manageable and less noticeable,” notes Audrica

Banks with Capital Floors. “There’s less worry for staining,

regrouting or deep cleaning.”

Installation adviceFinally, when you’re ready to install the tiles you’ve chosen,

extra care should be taken. “Never underestimate the

installation process for tile,” Stubbs says. “Tile is the most

permanent type of � ooring—the only way to � x it is with a

sledgehammer.”

To begin, � rst check that your sub� oor is ready for tile. If it’s

not completely level, the tile installation will fail, resulting

in cracked � ooring.

Then, if you’re installing natural-stone tile (where no two

pieces are exactly alike), blend pieces from multiple boxes

to avoid having areas that are noticeably different than each

other.

After the tile is installed, make sure you educate yourself on its

proper maintenance, and keep up with regular cleaning and

sealing. Finally, Ozbarlas says, “Don’t cut costs when it comes

to selecting tile. High-end material will likely last longer and

provide a more timeless look that can be enjoyed for years.”

AJW Designs Inc | AjwDesignsinc.com Arketype | Arketype.usCapital Floors | CapitalFloors.netCrossville Tile & Stone | CrossvilleTileAndStone.comEnhance Floors and More | EnhanceFloors.comFloor & Decor | FloorandDecor.comJohnny Rhino Residential Remodelers | JohnnyRhino.comLevantina | Levantina.comLunada Bay Tile | LunadaBaytile.comModa Floors and Interiors | ModaFloorsAndInteriors.comPineapple House Interior Design | PineappleHouse.comSnappy Kitchens | SnappyKitchens.comTraditions in Tile and Stone | TraditionsInTile.comThe Tile Shop | TileShop.com

RESOURCES:

Photo courtesy of Enhance Floors

Glass: Interceramic P ietra Cristal,, Crema Serpentine

Interceramic, Crema Imperial C igar Border

Ceramic: Daltile Modern Dimensions Semi G loss, Artisan Brown

Ask about SHOWERGUARD Glass with LIFETIME WARRANTY against Corrosion

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Cabinet Door GlassGlass Shelves and Tops

Color Glass and BacksplashesNEW MIDTOWN SHOWROOM



W E L C O M E H O M E

Create your perfect

place for every season.

O RD E R YO UR F RE E I D EA B O O K AT B E LGARD . CO M /AH I MInstall your patio, driveway or walkway with Belgard pavers and we’ll make a donation in your name to the USO in support of our nation’s troops and their families.

Belgard will donate $100 for every paver project installed with our product by November 11, 2015 with a minimum donation of $50,000, up to $100,000 total . For details, visit Belgard.com/Home

BELGARD_KiteAd_FullPg_AHIM_April Issue.indd 1 3/20/15 3:11 PM0415_056-061_Grass-groundcover.indd 56 3/24/15 12:33 PM

Thanks to Atlanta’s (mostly) hospitable

climate, residents can enjoy the great

outdoors for most of the year. As such,

they usually choose landscaping that

can be enjoyed year-round. This means more

weeks and months of traf� c. More wear, more

tear. So it’s even more crucial that Atlantans

educate themselves on which grasses or

groundcovers are ornamental and attractive, yet

still hardy.

The Popular KidsBy far, the most prevalent choices for grass in

the metro Atlanta area are fescue and zoysia

with some bermudagrass thrown in. “Their

popularity comes from their suitability

for our climate and providing durable

lawn options,” says Meredith Jedlicka

of Plants Creative Landscapes.

Choosing your ideal grass or

groundcover

Choosing your Choosing your Choosing your ideal grass or ideal grass or Choosing your ideal grass or Choosing your Choosing your ideal grass or Choosing your ideal grass or Choosing your ideal grass or Choosing your ideal grass or

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By Karon Warren

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W E L C O M E H O M E

Create your perfect

place for every season.

O RD E R YO UR F RE E I D EA B O O K AT B E LGARD . CO M /AH I MInstall your patio, driveway or walkway with Belgard pavers and we’ll make a donation in your name to the USO in support of our nation’s troops and their families.

Belgard will donate $100 for every paver project installed with our product by November 11, 2015 with a minimum donation of $50,000, up to $100,000 total . For details, visit Belgard.com/Home

BELGARD_KiteAd_FullPg_AHIM_April Issue.indd 1 3/20/15 3:11 PM


0415_056-061_Grass-groundcover.indd 57 3/24/15 12:33 PM

“Zoysia and bermudagrass are the most recommended

because of their lower water requirements.”

A growing selection of zoysia varieties means more options

for homeowners to personalize their yards. “Emerald zoysia

is a � ne-textured form that’s been around for a long time,”

says Hillary Thompson of Super-Sod. “Newer types of zoysia

include Zenith—a medium-textured type—and the brand

new Leisure Time zoysia, which is medium-� ne in texture.”

Zeon, St. Augustine, Raleigh and Floratam are other

types of zoysia.

For those looking at groundcovers, Mondo grass, Creeping

thyme, Creeping Jenny, Blue star creeper, Creeping phlox and

Pachysandra are just some of the many options that hold up

well in the Atlanta area. Others include Vinca vine, Asiatic

jasmine, Wintercreeper and Liriope. These are popular

because they spread quickly and help choke out weeds.

Money MattersOf course, for many homeowners the choice of grass and/or

groundcover comes down to budget. Because every yard is

different—square footage varies, landscape is not universal,

prep work differs—there is no exact price for purchasing

and installing grass and/or groundcovers. Add in different

costs for different breeds, and the expense can change

dramatically yet again.

Todd Guilmette of Unique Environmental Landscapes says

Zeon zoysia is usually the most expensive type of grass,

based on availability. Bermudagrass and fescue are second

most expensive options. On average, homeowners should

expect to pay between $1.50 and $2.25 per square foot for

the most popular grass choices.

Price ranges also differ for groundcovers based on type,

quantity and size of plant when installed. Asiatic jasmine

is fairly inexpensive compared to other groundcovers, with

Mondo grass also a pretty affordable choice. Jedlicka says a

broad range would be $1.25 for a smaller plant and up to $8

for a larger plant.

Traf� c ReportAnother consideration for homeowners when choosing

grass and groundcovers is how well the plants will hold

up to daily wear and tear. This includes foot traf� c, shade,

drought, winter temps and so on. “Zoysia is very durable

for kid and pet traf� c,” says Mark Erbes� eld, of PaverStone

Construction and Greenmark Landscaping. Zoysia, a

Clockwise from top left: Mondo grass, Creeping thyme, Creeping Jenny, Blue star creeper, Creeping phlox, Liriope, Wintercreeper, Asiatic jasmine, Vinca vine and Pachysandra

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“warm season” turf, will go dormant and turn brown during

the winter season.

Zoysia also has the ability to repair itself because the

species spreads moderately via aboveground stolons and

belowground rhizomes. Bermuda shares this trait, as well as

going into dormancy for the winter. However, bermudagrass

has the tendency to spread more than zoysia, so it could

stray beyond the borders the homeowner prefers.

Fescue, on the other hand, contradicts zoysia and bermuda.

Unlike zoysia and bermuda, fescue handles the shade well and

stays green year-round. However, its love of cooler temps can

lead to problems during Atlanta’s hot summers. “During the

hottest months, fescue lawns tend to die back in sunny areas

and develop bare spots in heavily traveled spots,” Jedlicka says.

“Due to its clump-like nature, it does not aptly � ll back in on its

own, requiring yearly core aeration and overseeding in the fall

to � ll back in patches lost to the summer heat.”

Among groundcovers, Blue star creeper handles foot traf� c

well, plus holds up in full sun with some shade. Guilmette

also suggests Creeping phlox if homeowners have full sun

with light foot traf� c. If the landscape receives partial sun

and shade, he recommends Mondo grass or Creeping Jenny.

In fact, as a spreading groundcover, Dwarf Mondo grass

makes a great steppable groundcover ideal for pathways

and in between stepping-stones, Jedlicka says. “Dwarf

Mondo grass is also used as a lawn substitute, providing an

evergreen lawn that does not require mowing or ongoing

fertilization,” she says.

Maintaining AppearancesLike all landscape elements, grass and groundcovers require

a certain amount of maintenance to keep them healthy

and looking good. Once established, maintaining a lawn

with zoysia, bermuda or fescue is fairly routine. “I suggest

cutting most grasses about one inch, two inches for fescue,”

says Mark Schisler of Legacy Landscapes Inc. “I also suggest

a good slow-release fertilize twice a year with iron.” In

addition, he said bermuda requires only .5 inches of water

per week, with zoysia needing about one inch of water per

week. ”Most homeowners overwater,” he says. “De� nitely

install a rain sensor on your irrigation system so it won’t

come on after a rain.”

Fescue, though, does require more maintenance than the

others. This is because it needs more frequent watering

during the summer months as well as chemical treatments

and fertilization to keep it healthy. Jedlicka says, “Fescue

is prone to fungal problems, so it is recommended that

preventative treatments are made to prevent infection

because, once infected, it declines quickly.”

The maintenance of groundcovers generally consists

of regular weeding to preserve a clean appearance and

pruning to stop the spread into other plants or outside the

desired area.

Having a landscape that you not only love but also enjoy

depends on choosing the most appropriate grass and/or

groundcover. With some research, you are sure to � nd one

that best suits both your needs and your budget.

Need some planning Inspiration? Turn to thenext page!

King Landscaping | EricKingLandscaping.comLegacy Landscapes Inc. | LegacyLandscapes.comPaverStone Construction & Greenmark Landscaping | Paverstone.comPlants Creative Landscapes | Plants-Creative-Landscapes.comSuper-Sod | SuperSod.comUnique Environmental Landscapes | Unique-Environmental.com

RESOURCES:

Photos courtesy of (left to right) Legacy Landscapes Inc., photography by Mark Schisler; Super-Sod, photography by Hillary Thompson



❷

❸

❶

Many thanks to Eric King of King Landscaping for contributing this piece.King Landscaping has created award-winning designs and a long list of satis� ed customers throughout Atlanta.Eric has appeared on HGTV’s Groundbreakers, on 11 Alive and

Atlanta and Company. He also is a regular contributor to Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine, the Atlanta Journal and Constitution and on many radio shows.A member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, King earned a Master’s of landscape architecture from the University of Georgia and a Master’s of business management from Georgia State University. In 2010 he founded Emory University’s Landscape Design certi� cation program, where he continues to teach.

❷

❶ GROUNDCOVER PERENNIALS

Groundcover and perennials provide color, stablize slope and are low enought so they do not block the view.

HARDSCAPEThe patio in the form of concrete pavers holds up best to constant use and is ideal for high traf� c. It is the hub for entertainment with the pool, outdoor kitchen and seating areas.

LAWNHolds up to occasional foot traf� c and breaks up the outdated “concrete doughnut” look of surrounding pools with hardscapes.

❸

✓

✓

✓✓

Planning is key! Before you pick up even one seed packet, consider major factors like sun vs. shade, level vs. slope, what kind of traf� c this area gets and more. So put your planning cap on and use this handy illustration from Eric King to start strategizing!



❹

❺

❺

❻

❼

❹ ❺

❻

❼

❼

SEE FINISHED PROJECT

atbit.ly/grassground

GROUNDCOVER PERENNIALS

Groundcover and perennials add a splash of color to steep slope and create separation between back and side yard.

GROUNDCOVERGroundcover keeps hammock out of lawn mower path and its low size keeps views open.

SHRUBSShrubs provide screening from neighbor and soften tall “brick wall” of house.

LAWNLawn produces soft play space for pets and people.

✓✓

✓

✓

✓

Planning is key! Before you pick up even one seed packet, consider major factors like sun vs. shade, level vs. slope, what kind of traf� c this area gets and more. So put your planning cap on and use this handy illustration from Eric King to start strategizing!



The measure of agreat remodeler.

Visit www.nariatlanta.org or call (770) 516-2091for a trustworthy contractor in your area.

©2014 NARI

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Good advice is the best tool.

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MPROVEMENTatlanta homeMMaaatata ho

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MAR

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014

®

2014 LANDSCAPEPLANNERTips, know-how and ideas for planning

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36TH ANNUALSPRING ATLANTA HOME SHOW OFFICIAL DIRECTORY P. 23

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JUN

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• Quiz: How Modern Are You? p. 44

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Summer-ize YourHome Decor p. 21

Even when you are on the go…

Find us anywhere.AtlantaHomeImprovement.comDigital issue: issuu.com/atlantahomeimprovement



When homeowners are looking forexperts to help them create their dream spaces

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Decking • Maintenance • Installation p. 24

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Teardownor Remodel?

This month’s cover projectis presented by:

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DeckingDeckingPoolYOUR

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For under $1000! p.66

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335Ways to Refresh your Home

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OC

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of

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What’s YourOutdoor Personality?Choosing landscape options based on your lifestyle p. 24

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Get inspiration foryour own yard p. 75Get inspiration forGet inspiration for

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Sewell Appliance & Service, Inc ...14

➚ TopSouth, Inc. .............................. 48


Landscape: Maintenance/Design

Fern Valley Landscapes & Interiors .................................... 40

Scapes ........................................... 14

Splendor Koi & Pond ................... 11

Landscape Supplies Belgard Hardscapes .................... 56

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Sewell Appliance & Service, Inc ...14


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diybloggersbeatRepurposing Old Lockers for Toy StorageWe don’t know what we love more about Decatur blogger Karen Cooper. The fact that she calls herself a

“recovering lawyer” or that she named her blog “Dogs Don’t Eat Pizza.” All we know is that we were struck by the

ingenuity of this neat project and wanted to share it with our readers. We want to try this now …don’t you?

6 Simple Steps

1 Find old school

lockers. This

is actually the

hardest step!

I found them

at the Habitat

for Humanity

ReStore, but you

can also � nd

them online

or at salvage

yards.

2 Clean the lockers

using mild dish

soap and water or

disinfecting wipes. Let dry.

3 If you want to paint

the lockers different

colors like I did,

then tape off the � rst section

you’re going to paint. For me,

that was the top row. I covered

the remaining rows with a

plastic drop cloth secured by

the painters tape.

4 Paint the lockers using

spray paint designed for metal.

Let dry completely.

5 Once you’ve put the lockers in place

in your home, attach them to the

wall so that they don’t topple over.

I did this by attaching a cleat to the wall (a

scrap 2x4 piece of wood) and then screwing

the lockers to the cleat.

6 Label the doors—I used chalkboard

labels—and � ll with toys! Lockers

also make great storage for craft

supplies, linens, plates and more.

Karen is the owner, writer, photographer and chief DIYer at Dogs Don’t Eat Pizza, a DIY/home blog. Before becoming a full-time blogger, Karen was an attorney for more than � ve years and a legal writing professor for 12 years. Now Karen calls herself a “recovering lawyer,” and focuses on her blog and being a mom to two amazing kids and two adorable dogs. You can read all about her DIY adventures (and why her blog is called “Dogs Don’t Eat Pizza”) at www.dogsdonteatpizza.com.

If you want to paint

the lockers different

then tape off the � rst section

you’re going to paint. For me,

that was the top row. I covered

plastic drop cloth secured by

Paint the lockers using

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0415_cover-001.indd 67 3/20/15 2:43 PM

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Atlanta home improvement 0415

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