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We asked our Atlanta reader focus group what Home Improvement Gifts they would love for the Holidays... Click now to discover their answers and for gift ideas to add to your list! Plus, Live "The Jetsons" Lifestyle - New home automation gadgets and products | Real Homeowners story - A castle in Canton, Georgia | Holiday Recipes - Bruschetta and Lemon Chocolate Chip Pecan Sandies | High Tech Window Coverings | Hundreds of Local Resources.
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MPROVEMENTMM
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
NO
VEM
BER
201
5atlanta home
Our reader focus group says yes! p. 36
What Atlantahome improvement insiders want you to know p. 53
PLU ED
PLUS! Hundreds of resources to
help you with your home improvement
projects p. 63
WWW.ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM
A Castle In CantonCheck out this real
homeowners story p. 30
Our reader focus group says yes! p. 36
Home Improvement
Holiday Gifts?
The Jetsons LifestyleLIVE
New home automation gadgets and products p. 21
1115_cover-001.indd 1 10/20/15 12:21 PM
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1115_003-005_masthead.indd 3 10/19/15 6:48 PM
1115_003-005_masthead.indd 4 10/16/15 3:34 PM
PRESIDENT/FOUNDERSherri Adair
PUBLISHERPatti Stephens
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERJennifer Prins
EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORJayne Hallock
COPY EDITORAmy Meadows
DIRECTOR OF CONTENT MARKETINGDavid Leonard
ART DIRECTORDona Halliday
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVESandi Edelson
SOCIAL MEDIA/EDITORIAL ASSISTANTChela Counts
OFFICE MANAGERClarice Diavua
CONTRIBUTORSKathy KantorskiAmy Meadows
A t l a n t ac h a p t e r
MPROVEMENT
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
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
DC Enclosures, Inc. Has built thousands of enclosures in Metro Atlanta since 1988
Call Us Today!
770-999-0532or Visit our showroom at:
2031 Baker Court, Kennesaw, GA 30144
www.dcenclosures.com
MPROVEMENT
S M A R T H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T S TA R T S H E R E
atlanta home
Best of 2015Winner
BESTDECK/PORCH/PATIO
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We specialize in:
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 5
1115_003-005_masthead.indd 5 10/19/15 10:30 AM
contents
features21 Live The Jetsons
lifestyle New home automation products
make life simpler
30 A Castle in Canton A Real Homeowners Story
53 Our special Plugged In section features holiday recipes, greetings, family traditions and more from home industry enthusiasts and experts
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Home Improvement Holiday Gifts? Our Reader Focus Group Says Yes!
36
30
21
PLU ED
6 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
1115_006-009_TOC.indd 6 10/20/15 3:22 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 program participating contractor, to
find out where your home is losing energy. Complete a home energy assessment and youll
get up to a $225 rebate. And if you make the home energy improvements, you could get up
to $2,350 in rebates. Learn more at georgiapower.com/wholehouse or call 1-800-310-5607.
Small energy leaks can really add up.
1115_006-009_TOC.indd 7 10/16/15 3:34 PM
16
in every issue 10 Editors Letter
12 Editors Picks Home Dcor Shopping In Stone Mountain Village
14 Home Front Quick Tips, Expert Advice, Fun Events and More!
16 Our Expert Panel Q&A Safe and Sound for the Holidays
18 The Payoff: Home Improvement ROI 5 Curb Appeal Tips Part Two of Two
63 Resource Finder Find Help with your Home Improvement Projects
66 DIY Blogger Beat Holiday Craft Project
contents
66
12
28 Colors AvailableFree Measure and Quote
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***Complete 2.0 Ton 16 SEER split system A/C with 45K BTU High Effi ciency 80% gas furnace, matching coil and digital thermostat.
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1115_006-009_TOC.indd 8 10/19/15 3:01 PM
ON KUDZU & GOOGLE+
24/7 SERVICE
www.770COOLAIR.com
SERVICES INCLUDE:Air ConditioningHeatingMaintenance ProgramsService RepairsIndoor Air QualityHumidity ControlZoningSmart ThermostatsDuctless SystemsDuct CleaningWater Heaters
YOUR COMFORT IS OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY...
or to schedule your free In-Home Consultation
770.COOL AIR (770.266.5247)
WINTER SPECIALS!!!INSTALLEDFURNACE
$1,695* 45K BTU GAS
SERVICE TUNE-UP
$5995PER UNIT
COMPLETE LENNOX 16 SEER HEATING & COOLING SYSTEM
$5,295***INSTALLED
INSTALLEDSTEAM HUMIDIFIER
$1,795**16 GALLON
Some restrictions apply. Call for details.
Some restrictions apply. Call for details.
Some restrictions apply. Call for details.
Some restrictions apply. Call for details.
$139
PER SYSTEM$99 FOR EACH ADDL SYSTEM
2 visits. Some restrictions apply. Call for details.
FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION
Reg $159
*$1695 Furnace Special Lennox 45K BTU High Effi ciency gas furnace. 20 year limited warranty on the heat exchanger, 10
years on covered parts. Price includes standard installation.
** $1795 Steam Humidifi er - Field Control 16 gallon, 18 month warranty. Price includes standard installation.
***Complete 2.0 Ton 16 SEER split system A/C with 45K BTU High Effi ciency 80% gas furnace, matching coil and digital thermostat.
Price includes standard installation.
****System rebate offer up to $1700. Rebate offer is valid September 7th November 27th 2015 with the purchase of
qualifying Lennox products. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
WHY CHOOSE US?Over 1000 Five Star ReviewsAll Employees Are Background Checked & Drug TestedWe Service All Brands, Makes & Models EPA & NATE Certi edLicensed, Insured & BondedFree In-Home Consultation On The Spot Financing Available!
1 YR. MAINTENANCE CONTRACT
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$1,700****RECEIVE UP TOIN SYSTEM REBATES
1115_006-009_TOC.indd 9 10/16/15 3:34 PM
A Reluctant Goodbyeeditorsletter
How do I do this? How do I leave a team, a family like this one? But leave it I must. Im off to
a new, impossible-to-pass-up
gig. So this is my last letter
as the editor of Atlanta Home
Improvement.
A lot has changed since I rst
signed on. The publication
was sold (back to the original founder and all around
Superwoman Sherri Adair.) It has stretched; improved,
evolved into something Im so very proud to be a part
of. Its a magazine for real people with real homes
and budgets. Its for all of us. Its for your family, your
neighborhood. Its truly for you.
And you, dear reader, Ill miss! In my almost two years
here Ive met hundreds of you face to face and Im always
humbled by your loyalty to our publication. Ill miss
basking in that happy glow almost as much I already miss
the hard-working, funny, talented, driven team who makes
this magic happen, month-in and month-out.
But enough about me. Lets talk about this issue. Page 36
kicks off the kind of article evolution I mentioned earlier.
Its our rst-ever holiday focus group roundup where we
polled dozens of readers to nd out what would make a
good home improvement related gift. Their suggestions are
fun and fascinating. Want even more inspiration? Check
out a real homeowners story on page 30. Its a castle! In
Canton!
Our gadget-y, cool feature on page 21 showcases new home
automation products that can help you live The Jetsons
lifestyle. Futuristic, baby.
Speaking of the future, Ill say one more thing. Yall have not
seen nothin yet. Ive peeked at the 2016 editorial calendar
and its simply awesome. After this issue I myself will
become a dear reader and I am excited to watch what 2016
brings!
Thank you, thank you, thank you,
Jayne Hallock Editor & Social Media Director
10 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
770.309.3999www.magnoliaoutdoorliving.comsales@magnoliaoutdoorliving.com
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AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 11
4 Things Youll Learn This Month
1
Coming in December:
In this Issue
234
How to safety check your home for the holidays. P. 16
What is a Kevo? P. 21
What do readers think is a great luxury gift? P. 36
A fun holiday DIY craft! P. 66
CREATE YOUR VERY OWN PLACE OF
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Call us today to immediately schedule a pond consultation
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MPROVEMENT
S M A R T H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T S TA R T S H E R E
atlanta home
Best of 2015Winner
BESTWATER PONDS/
GARDENS
Which rooms sell a home?
The Kitchen and Bath! Which
rooms get the most use every
single day? Your Kitchen and
Bath! What is our December
planner all about? The
Kitchen and Bath! Our annual
Kitchen and Bath Planner will
help inspire, organize and
budget your next remodel.
Well also feature real
homeowner kitchen and bath
makeovers. Real before and
afters, real people, real tips
and real lessons learned!
Dont miss this issue!
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 .
MPROVEMENTatlanta home
WWW.ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM
Budget Planner Countertop Materials - Pros & Cons Kitchen Layouts
How Extensive a Renovation Can You Really Afford Refresh, Minor or Major?
Kitchen & BathWorkbook
1115_010-011_ED LETT.indd 11 10/19/15 3:05 PM
1. Barons RestorationKnown for restoring
pieces for the likes of
Jimmy Carter, Ted Turner
and Elton John, this
family-owned business
does it all! Even if you
dont need anything
restored, youll fall in
love with their pristine
collectibles from Disney
and Lladro and even
elegant vases like this
one that we found for
$125. Stop by 931 Main
Street or call
(770) 469-8476.
2. Wells Cargo AntiquesTrinkets, mantelpieces
and furniture galore! If
youre shopping for some
lovely little touches for
your home or great gifts,
youre sure to nd it here.
Affordably and adorably!
We completely fell for
this ceramic piggy bank
(only $5), which is perfect
for any little prince in
your life. Stop by 953
Main Street or call
(770) 469-0400.
3. A Village Flea MarketWho says you cant add
a new look to your
home by adding just a
few pieces from the past?
Not this market! If youre
looking to add distinctive
one-of-a-kind antiques to
your home, be sure to add
this store to your route.
This ve-drawer table
($198) can spruce up any
room. Visit their 791 Main
Street location or call
(770) 413-6436.
4. SassysNamed after an 18-pound
yorkie, Sassys is full of
charm and unique nds!
The array of antiques
found within this spunky
corner store ranges from
jewelry to artwork. We
fell in love with this
sunower oil painting
that can brighten any
room for only $100.
Visit Sassys at 5346 E
Mountain Street or call
(678) 736-0384.
5. Stone Mountain OPO EmporiumConveniently located in
Stone Mountain Villages
old post ofce (hence the
OPO), this emporium is
an antique gold mine.
Rows and rooms of war
and sports memorabilia
and collected furniture
create an atmosphere
of southern history! We
especially loved this
$100 trunk! Visit 5379 E
Mountain Street or call
(770) 469-1425.
editorspicks
Stone Mountain
This month, we thought wed feature one of our favorite parts of town: Stone Mountain! Woodsy, cozy, pretty Stone Mountain Village (located right outside the West Gate of Stone Mountain Park on Main Street) offers great home dcor shopping. Here are a few of the places we stopped by
1
2
5
New and notable home improvement products
4
3
Dear Image Doors,
The real testimony for your company is that you always responded to me, which I respect. You have proven to be different from the pack with superior attitude and customer service. You actually followed up on your companys work. I had other new garage doors installed for my house renovation at about the same time that the Carriage House Door replaced my old garage door. Your door looks much better, so much more substantial quality and actually costs a little less. You should defi nitely use me for a satisfi ed customer reference. Elizabeth M.
$100for new door
customerreferrals!
12 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
1115_012-013_editors pick.indd 12 10/19/15 3:06 PM
Dear Image Doors,
The real testimony for your company is that you always responded to me, which I respect. You have proven to be different from the pack with superior attitude and customer service. You actually followed up on your companys work. I had other new garage doors installed for my house renovation at about the same time that the Carriage House Door replaced my old garage door. Your door looks much better, so much more substantial quality and actually costs a little less. You should defi nitely use me for a satisfi ed customer reference. Elizabeth M.
$100for new door
customerreferrals!
1115_012-013_editors pick.indd 13 10/16/15 3:34 PM
The Atlanta
Community
Toolbank is
throwing a huge
Tool Rush sale
on November 7th.
This is a great
chance to buy
a gift for your
favorite DIYer.
Thousands of
new tools will
be priced below standard retail and proceeds benet the Atlanta Community
Toolbank. Visit AtlantaToolBank.org.
homefrontHandmade Holidays
Expert Tips, News and Happenings from Atlantas Home Improvement Community Expert Q&A
How do I prepare teak
outdoor furniture
for winter?
Snow and freezing
temperatures will not
harm the furniture. However,
we do recommend treating
your teak prior to winter
storage.
Do not use teak oil on
outdoor teak furniture! Teak
oil only works on indoor teak
to condition or polish the
wood. Outdoor teak does not
accept teak oil at all; instead
it sits on the surface of the
wood giving it an oily surface.
(We recommend Golden Care
products, including the Teak
Cleaner, Teak Protector and
Teak Shield.)
Start by hosing down each
piece of furniture with fresh
waterbut avoid spraying
the teak with a high-pressure
hose. High pressure can erode
the surface of the teak.
Next, scrub the wet furniture
using a soft bristle brush and
a solution of 2/3 cup laundry
detergent and 1/4 cup bleach
in one gallon of warm water.
When nished, rinse the entire
piece with more fresh water
to remove any remaining
cleaning solution.
Richie Morgan, Senior Design Expert at AuthenTEAK, AuthenTeak.com
Q:
A:
Phot
ogra
ph
y by
Au
then
TEA
K O
utd
oor
LIvi
ng,
p
hot
ogrp
ahy
by A
sh-M
arie
Eva
ns
Photography by AuthenTEAK Outdoor LIving, photogrpahy by Ash-Marie Evans
The Gift of Tools!
Photo courtesy of Spruill Arts Center for the Arts, photography by Kristin Wilder
Comedian Amy
Sedaris once said:
My favorite things
often have a story
behind them
and are usually
handmade or
discovered at a ea
market. So true!
Look around your
home.
What means
more to you: the
expensive silver
platter you bought
at a department
store or the hand
scrawled I love
you framed picture
from your child?
Handmade gifts are ideal for holiday giving and memory making.
Unfortunately, very few of us are talented enough to make gorgeous gifts
without a little instruction. Luckily, The Spruill Arts Center has a great series
going on this holiday season called Handmade for the Holidays. Sign up to
make holiday wind chimes, stained glass pieces, jewelry and much more! See
Spruillarts.org for more information.
Photo courtesy of Atlanta Community Toolbank, photographyby Mickey Desai
14 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
1115_014-015_home-fronts.indd 14 10/19/15 3:13 PM
Expert Q&A
November 2 Intro to Sewing Machine Class 6 - 8 p.m. Discover Sewing - DuluthDiscoverSewing.com
November 4 Thanksgiving 101 Cooking Class 7 - 9 p.m. Cooks WarehouseClasses.CooksWarehouse.com
November 6Handmade for the Holidays: Jewelry Class6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.Registration.SpruillArts.org November 8Afternoon in the Country1 - 4 p.m. Inn at Serenbe Serenbe.com
November 7 Tool Rush8 a.m. - 2 p.m.AtlantaToolBank.com
November 11 Free Park Day Chattahoochee River National Recreation AreaHours varyNPS.gov/chat
November 14 15 Paideia Schools 33rd Annual Fine Art & Craft SaleHours varyThe Paideia School PaideiaSchool.org November 13 14Cumming Steam, Antique Tractor, and Gas Engine Expo Cumming FairgroundsCapa-Ga.com
November 17Miele Appliances Private Demo & Tasting RSVP required: [email protected] November 21 22 Indie Craft Experience 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.Ice-Atlanta.com November 26 Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon and 5k7:30 a.m.AtlantaTrackClub.org November 30 December 15 Christmas at Callanwolde Hours vary Callanwolde.org
WHATS HAPPENING THIS MONTH
For more event listings, visit AtlantaHomeImprovement.comHave a home improvement question or news tip? Send to editor@
homeimprovementmag.com.
WE ACCEPT:
LIFETIME GUARANTEE
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AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 15
1115_014-015_home-fronts.indd 15 10/20/15 3:23 PM
16 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
Before you start
installing your holiday
lights, there are a few
things that you
should check for
safety.
Dedicated circuits.
You might think that
it is only a few
(hundred) lights.
Those little lights do
add up. Each mini
light is 5 to 7 watts.
(100 lights x 5 watts =
500 watts.That equals
4.16 amps.)
Please keep in mind
your 15-amp breaker
safely holds 12 amps.
Plug into GFI outlets
only. The cords for
your lights need to be
protected so everyone
has a safe holiday.
Inside and out!
The holidays can be a stressful time for parents. The Christmas tree can be a particular source of concern with its twinkling lights and colorful decorations. So be sure to only use non-breakable ornaments and place them out of reach of babies and young children.
Make sure the tree is well-anchored in an appropriate stand to reduce the risk of it tipping over if a child was to pull on its branches. The presents under the tree can also be a hazard. Be sure to only allow children to play with age-appropriate toys and always check for loose or broken pieces or uncovered batteries.
expertpanel
Holiday Home SafetyKeep Your Family Safe and Sound for the Holidays!
The safety of your pet
is key to your holiday
happiness and theirs.
We all know the
streets can pose a lot
of dangers, but
beware of those inside
the home as well.
Open trash cans,
pesticides, unsafe
electrical wires and
disinfectants can all
cause harm to your
pets. Start actively
looking for these
dangers around the
house this holiday
season. Dont forget
those seemingly-
harmless holiday
decorations! Make
sure there are no
tempting dangling
ribbons or string that
could entice them to
pull heavy items off
tables and onto your
unsuspecting pet.
TERRY ARONSON Ackerman Security
AckermanSecurity.com
TIM CLARK Invisible Fence
Peachtree.InvisibleFence.com
JOHN POPLIN Pat Murphy Electric
PatMurphyElectric.com
RYAN SCHECTER Safe Nest Baby Proong
SafeNestBaby.com
Phot
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(le
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Ack
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During the holiday
season, the risk of
home res rises
dramatically. It is
estimated that
someone may have
fewer than two
minutes to get out
after a re starts in
their home.
There are two simple
steps that can save
lives: check existing
smoke detectors
and practice re
escape drills at
home. Every family
should develop a re
escape plan and
practice it. The most
important part of
that plan is to have
an agreed upon
meeting place that
all members of the
family go to
immediately upon
escaping from the
home.
JIM CALLAHAN Ackerman Security
AckermanSecurity.com
1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. Atlanta, GA
Hours MON/SAT 10am to 5pm
404-355-4151
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Increased awareness can decrease your chances of becoming a victim of a home burglary. For instance, by realizing that there is a greater chance of a break-in during the day, you can try to create the illusion that people are actually home during daytime hours. Editors note: Set lamps on timers.
Did you know that 40 percent of annual household burglaries are not forced entries? This means someone was easily able to walk, climb or crawl into the house! So make it a habit to check all door and window locks regularlyespecially after kids or guests have been in the house.
1115_016_017_expert-panel.indd 16 10/20/15 12:32 PM
1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. Atlanta, GA
Hours MON/SAT 10am to 5pm
404-355-4151
www.greatvaluefurniture.com
BEST VALUE IN BETTER
FURNITURE
Over
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RetailHuge
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1115_016_017_expert-panel.indd 17 10/19/15 3:40 PM
Heres what curb appeal really means to todays savvy residential real estate consumer.(For the rst ve tips,
please see the rst part of
this series on our website:
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com.)
Here are the nal ve tips
in this two-part series about
creating outstanding curb
appeal:
Lightness and
brightness, always!
Dark rooms, weak
lighting and dated
nishes (like worn out door
hardware) can crush a buyers
enthusiasm for a property.
Brighten things up! Even from
the outside, a house should lift
a persons spirits and inspire
good feelings.
Follow proven
models. Success
leaves clues! The
top-dollar sale down
the street or the remarkable
story of a house transformation portrayed on television
are just two examples of successful curb appeal today.
Follow the success of others. Ask for helpand invest in
great help. At closing, you will not regret prioritizing your
curb appeal!
Want top dollar? Hide evidence of pets! Not every
buyer is going to be an animal lover. If your yard
is patchy from Fidos markings, consult a lawn or
landscape professional to x the problem. If you
have a lot of I love my cats! porch dcor, remove that before
showings as well. The fewer reminders that animals live in
the home, the better.
A prettier porch or patio. No matter how small or
simple your front area is, make it the best it can be.
Clear off clutter, x any tears in the screen, give your
concrete porch oor a fresh coat of paint. If its in
your budget, installing a swing with a few colorful
throw pillows can really amp up your curb appeal!
Outdoor housekeeping is a daily chore. Get with
the program and stay with it until you reach the
goal of a top-dollar sale! When your property is for
sale, do not slack on keeping the yard mowed, the
hedges trimmed, the leaves raked, the gutters clean,
the owers watered, etc. Make a point of viewing your home
from the street every single morning to ensure its making a
beautiful drive-by impression every single day!
5 Curb Appeal Tips The Second in A Two-Part Series
LeeTaylor is a 16-year veteran Georgia
Realtor and a Charter Member of
Keller Williams Realty in Georgia.
Hes a graduate of Furman University
and a former U.S. Army ofcer, and
he currently serves on the PTA for
Oak Grove Elementary School. Visit
Intownatlantahouses.com for more details.
ThePayoff Real Estate ROI
When your property is for sale, do not slack on keeping the yard mowed, the hedges trimmed, the leaves raked, the owers watered, etc.
Phot
o co
urt
esy
of T
racy
Cox
Ph
otog
rap
hy
1
2
34
5
18 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
1115_018-019_Real-estate.indd 18 10/20/15 7:41 AM
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Remember Rosey, The
Jetsons robot maid?
She did everything
from cooking to cleaningat the
push of a button or a simple voice
command. In fact, that futuristic family
had an array of enviable technology at home. The bad news is
that Rosey doesnt really exist.
The good news? Loads of innovative home gadgets and gizmos do!
The future is now!
Safe and SecureSome of the most popular home automation products are related to home security.
Gone are the days of simply having window sensors and motion detectors to protect against unwanted
entry. Now, homeowners have access to more comprehensive systems that can be used in tandem
with new home automation products By Amy Meadows
LIVE THEJetsons Lifestyle
FOR ALL YOUR HOME ENTERTAINMENT AND AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS
HOME TECHNOLOGY THAT SIMPLIFIES YOUR LIFEAre you remodeling or updating your home or entertainment center? Atlanta Audio & Automation can help you select and
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1115_020-029_Security & Tech.indd 22 10/19/15 4:51 PM
with other popular technology for personalized, round-the-
clock monitoring.
The technology available today provides homeowners
with an affordable means to be protected and connected,
says Jim Callahan of Ackerman Security Systems. The ability
to use technology we are all familiar withsuch as smartphones,
tablets and computersprovides a new gateway of accessibility for
homeowners.
From providing live video and allowing you to manage your homes
locks and lights remotely, todays security systems can be paired with
almost any device to give you a new level of control from anywhere
in the world (provided you have Wi-Fi, of course). The security portion
of these systems is about life safety, Callahan notes. The automation
portion is about lifestyle. These devices and services not only protect your
home, but they also give you the opportunity to know what is going on in
your home as often as possible.
In addition to whole-house security systems, there are innovative
individual products that up the security factor for your home. Kevo by
Kwikset ($199) is the rst door lock to turn your smartphone into your key,
giving you hands-free access to your home. The battery-operated deadbolt
lock, which requires no hard wiring and boasts a simple DIY installation,
pairs with your smartphone and comes with an additional key fob.
Once you have the Kevo installed, you enroll your fob and your phone via
an app. Its quite simple, and it offers great convenience and security for
homeowners, says Marty Hoffmann of Kwikset. Whats more, you can send
eKeys to other peoples phones, giving them different levels of access to
your home, from between certain hours of the day to unlimited access.
Amazing OutletsHome automation has even brought standard outlets to a
whole new level. Leeo Smart AlertTM ($99) is a small
device that plugs into the wall and connects to all of
your currently installed smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors; if any of them go off, the Leeo will call
your smartphone with a recorded clip of the
alarm. If you dont pick up, you can program
the Leeo to call backup phones on an
emergency contact list. It can even
call 911 for you. It works with iOS
and Android, and it doubles as a
nightlight, letting you choose any
color to illuminate a hallway or
bedroom.
Kevo turns your smartphone into your door key. $199
Leeo calls your smartphone if your detectors go off, and doubles as a nightlight. $199
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Call 770-552-1111
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Additional Enhanced Home Solutions Available
View Live Video
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Switch Your Existing Monitoring To Ackerman No cost to switch No long term contract required Free $500 Insurance Deductible Program CSAA 5 Diamond Monitoring Guaranteed Response Time
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or 10% OFF On a New System Installation
Call 770-552-1111
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18 95 $ PER MONTH
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or 10% OFF On a New System Installation
Call 770-552-1111
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Additional Enhanced Home Solutions Available
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Switch Your Existing Monitoring To Ackerman No cost to switch No long term contract required Free $500 Insurance Deductible Program CSAA 5 Diamond Monitoring Guaranteed Response Time
18 95 $ PER MONTH
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or 10% OFF On a New System Installation
Call 770-552-1111
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Additional Enhanced Home Solutions Available
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18 95 $ PER MONTH
UP TO 3 MONTHS FREE MONITORING When You Switch or Start Service
or 10% OFF On a New System Installation
Call 770-552-1111
Control Your
Lights Locks and
Thermostat
Additional Enhanced Home Solutions Available
View Live Video
Control Your System Remotely
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Switch Your Existing Monitoring To Ackerman No cost to switch No long term contract required Free $500 Insurance Deductible Program CSAA 5 Diamond Monitoring Guaranteed Response Time
18 95 $ PER MONTH
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Rachio Iro sets your watering schedule by assessing your yards sun exposure and weather conditions. $249
Nest teaches itself the temperature you like and can turn itself off when it senses no one is at home. $249
Dollars and SenseAnother benet of
home automation
is potential energy
savings for your
home. And saving
energy equals saving
money!
With many of todays
products, you can save on
electricity bills by having
much more control over the
devices and appliances in your
home. A popular place to start is with
the Nest Learning Thermostat ($249), which
uses a combination of sensors and algorithms
to teach itself the temperatures you like, when
to turn off if nobody is home and more.
It can be installed as a DIY project and takes
about a week for it to program itself. In the
meantime, the thermostat also allows you to
control the temperature of your house from
your smartphone. According to Nest, The
Nest Learning Thermostat has been proven
by third-party researchers to save people,
on average, about 10 to 12 percent on their
heating bills and about 15 percent on their
cooling bills.
The savings dont only apply to your
homes interior, of course. You can save
on your water bills with the Rachio Iro
smart irrigation system. In addition to
giving you control over your sprinklers
through your iOS phone, Android
device or laptop, the Rachio Iro tunes
itself to your particular yard, assessing
sun exposure and using national and
local weather data. This will help you
adjust your watering schedule so
your plants and lawn never receive
too much or too little water. And its
affordable! An eight-zone Rachio Iro
costs $249, while a 10-zone device
costs $299.
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 25
1115_020-029_Security & Tech.indd 25 10/20/15 12:41 PM
Sometimes things are so high tech they are scary.
Technology that tracks our heartbeats! Speakers you, um,
actually speak to? Makes you wonder whats next. An app
that breaks up with your boyfriend for you?
Then again, sometimes we come across high-tech
gadgets that make the world feel a bit less scary.
Here are a few great products designed to provide
you and your family with some real peace of mind.
Ring DoorbellThe concept is simple. And simply awesome.
When someone rings your doorbell, your
smartphone instantly shows you who is
standing at your door. Even if you are on
a different oor, around the corner or even
around the world! Better still, you can hear
the visitor and speak to them! A built-in
motion detector records activity by your front
door, even if the bell isnt rung. Starts at $199. See
more at Ring.com.
Protect America Smart Connect AppThis is just one of many home security systems that allows
you to control everythingright from your smart phone
or wireless device. You can turn on or dim lights, arm or
disarm your security system, lock and unlock doors or
simply check camera feeds if something goes bump in the
night. All from the comfort of your own bed! See more at
ProtectAmerica.com.
gadgets that make the world feel a bit less scary.
Here are a few great products designed to provide
you and your family with some real peace of mind.
The concept is simple. And simply awesome.
a different oor, around the corner or even
around the world! Better still, you can hear
motion detector records activity by your front
door, even if the bell isnt rung. Starts at $199. See
Five star reviews on kudzu.com
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1115_020-029_Security & Tech.indd 26 10/20/15 12:41 PM
Open and CloseHave you ever wanted to open and close your window
coverings by remote control? Thanks to Hunter Douglas, now
you can. Its Platinum App, which works with nearly all of the
companys product lines, allows you to use your smartphone
to control how and when you open and close your shades.
You can program it to open your bedroom blinds slowly in
the morning to wake you gently or close the shades in a sun
drenched room in the late afternoon each day.
According to Robin Vance of Enhance Floors & More, Hunter
Douglas window coverings can be installed with a satellite
pack in the headrail that then connects to the Platinum
App. The one-time investment will cost around $500 per
window, but its an amazing feature to enjoy for years to
come.
LiftMasters entrance into the home automation market
has given homeowners control over something they
often forget about: the garage door. The companys MyQ-
enabled garage door opener allows you to operate your
garage door or property gate remotely from your iPhone or
Android device. It also provides a new level of monitoring,
as you can check the status of your garage door on your
smartphone. It will even alert you when your garage
door opens or closes. All you need is a module ($59) that
connects to your currently installed LiftMaster garage door
opener, and youre on your way. One module can control
multiple garage doors, reveals Tim Yeager
of Precision Garage Door
Service. It has become a
very popular technology
because it is so helpful
and useful. And for
those homeowners who
dont have a LiftMaster
garage door opener, a
universal module is
available for $159.
Platinum App acts as a gentler alarm. The blinds in your bedroom can be programmed to open slowly in the morning to wake you. $500
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Hip and Hands-Free And now its time to put your feet up and enjoy some
really cool hands-free devices that have taken the home
automation industry by storm. For years,
the iRobot Roomba Vacuum Cleaning
Robot has been slowly cleaning its way
through homes across the country.
The company recently released the
iRobot Roomba 800 Series (starting at
$509), which features the new AeroForceTM
Performance Cleaning System. The device
now removes up to 50 percent more dust,
debris and hair from your oors by using
AeroForce Extractors instead of traditional
bristle brushes. The press of one button
allows you to enjoy hands-free vacuuming
on carpet and hardwood, and the Roomba
docks and recharges itself when its done.
Alexa! Youll be calling that name out
often thanks to the Amazon Echo ($179.99),
a hands-free device that lets you ask for
information, music, news, weather and
more from across the room. It uses voice
recognition technology and answers
instantly.
Want to hear your favorite tune? Ask Alexa to play it for you.
Want to know the latest news? Alexa will give you a news
ash brie ng from your favorite media outlets. Worried
about your commute? Ask Alexa for the best route to work
each morning. Its an incredible technology that uses the
Cloud and Amazon Web Services to get smarter and more
functional all the time.
(Come to think of it, maybe Rosey the Robot does exist
today?)
RESOURCES
Ackerman Security Systems AckermanSecurity.com Amazon | Amazon.comEnhance Floors & MoreEnhanceFloors.com iRobot | iRobot.com Kwikset | Kwikset.com/kevo
Leeo | Leeo.com Nest | Nest.comPrecision Garage Door ServicePrecisionDoor.net Rachio | Rachio.com
iRobot Vacuum Cleaner Enjoy hands-free vacuuming.$509
Alexa You can request your favorite tunes, news update or the best work route. $179.99
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Hm. I guess I would
call it Old World style,
says Jodi Nikolai, when
I ask her how she
would characterize her
Canton home.
Old World. Other
accurate descriptions
include: sprawling,
ornate, gorgeous and
completely, utterly
unique. We rst heard
about this castle-like
home from Alyson
Smith of Interior Evolutions, who was hired by Jodi to
elevate the design in many of this homes rooms.
And Alyson did just that, applying her faux nishing
talent and making absolute magic on many of the
homes walls and ceilings. (Most of the photos in this
spread feature Alysons beautiful handiwork.)
We recently sat down with Jodi Nikolai to nd out
more about the homes history, its design and lessons
learned from the process.
The homeowners moved to Atlanta in 2000 from St.
Louis and built this home in 2003. They chose this
specic builder because he had built another nearby
home which they loved. We fell in love with the look
of that home. Its on a street thats literally called the
Street of Dreams, Nikolai says. The new home took
almost a year to build, and, though they worked with
the same builder, they changed a lot of details, like
adding in Juliet balconies and transforming bedrooms
into ofces.
A few months after the house was complete, the
homeowners encountered a small nancial bump in
the road. So they shifted some money around and
ended up having to divert the funds theyd initially set
aside for furniture. For months.
It was like an echo chamber in here for so long! I
didnt like it because it felt very cold with no furniture,
and it didnt help that there were no color variations
on any of the walls, Nikolai says. Even when their
nances later righted themselves, the Nikolais decided
to upgrade their backyard rst and install a gorgeous
pool, waterfall and elaborate new landscaping.
1. SOARING TURRETS: Building their dream
home was a labor of love
for homeowners Jodi
and Kurt Nikolai.
2. OUTDOOR AREA: There used to be
absolutely nothing
out here. Just trees
overlooking the golf
course. Now our kids
love it out here. We
installed a diving rock,
and a photo I took from
a magazine inspired the
replace.
3. VANITY UPGRADE: This vanity was
originally a plain, boring,
white vanity. We had
Alyson repaint it, and I
put new knobs on there.
4. WALL STENCIL: This wall treatment
looks like custom
wallpaper, but its
actually a stencil! It took
her about a week to
nish.
Pho
togr
aph
y by
Ph
oto
sByH
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itz.
com
A Castle In Canton
REAL HOMEOWNERS STORY
JODI NIKOLAI, Homeowner
30 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015
1115_030-035_Homeowners story.indd 30 10/20/15 12:45 PM
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1115_030-035_Homeowners story.indd 32 10/20/15 12:45 PM
(Interesting note: HGTV
heard about the backyard
overhaul and decided to lm
the Nikolais journey for its
home improvement show,
Groundbreakers.)
Finally, they were able to
turn their attention to two
nal touches in their home
furniture and wall treatments.
Which brings us to Nikolais
most strident piece of advice.
Dont ever try to pick your
colors without advice from a
designer, she says. Even if
you have great taste, you need
professional help to make
sure it ows with the rest
of the house. For instance, I
picked what I thought was an
Old World paint color for the
kitchen wall. But once it was
up, it looked like mustard! For
my living room, I chose this
forest green colorand it was
horric!
Instead, she advises
homeowners to always check
to see if their furniture store
offers free design services. She
found out later that one of
her favorite furniture stores,
Home Fashion Center, did.
They sent designer Sandi
Fogarty out to the home,
and Nikolai now calls her a
great personal friend and
incredibly talented. She
credits Fogarty with pulling
the homes dcor together so
beautifully.
5. TOP TO BOTTOM TREATMENT: Originally, this
room was all
bright blue and
mermaids. When
my daughter
turned 13, we
brought Alyson
in to redo
everything. I love
this crocodile
detail. The only
thing we bought
new was the
bedding.
We recovered a
chair, which was
originally orange.
6. FAUX FINISH DOORS: The homeowners
asked Alyson to
add a wood tone
nish to the less
expensive builder
grade door (on
the left) to match
the real, heavy
wood doors (on
the right). Even
with the faux
treatment, it still
cost much less
then a real wood
door would!
REAL HOMEOWNERS STORY
Faux Finish Artist: Alyson Smith, Interior Evolutions, InteriorEvo.com
Designer: Sandi Fogarty, Home Fashion Center, HomeFashionCenter.com
Pool Installer: Todd Rogers, Atlanta Classic Pools, (678) 880-3240
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 33
1115_030-035_Homeowners story.indd 33 10/20/15 12:46 PM
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WHO SAYS YOU CANT IMPROVE ON A CLASSIC?
, Weyerhaeuser and Framer Series are trademarks of Weyerhaeuser NR. 2015 Weyerhaeuser NR Company. All rights reserved.
Weyerhaeuser Framer Series LumberWeyerhaeuser has taken wood quality to a whole new level with Americas favorite framing material. With Weyerhaeuser Framer Series lumber you can forget about call backs and guess work. Now you know what lumber will look like today, tomorrow and for years to come!
Precision tested for ber strength and density
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Ideally suited for precision applications
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Comes from SFI-certi ed mills and timberlands
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Home Improvement?
GiftGive A of
Reader Focus Group, Sub-Zero and Wolf Showroom
Our Reader Focus GroupSays Yes!
36 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Home Improvement?
The holidays! Malls! Trinkets and traf c! Complete
department storeoverload.
Its the same old, same old.Maybe its time to think
outside the box. Or rather, in it.
Inside the beautiful big box we call our home. Its where we lay
our heads, raise our families andideally nd fun, peace and
relaxation.
But thats not always the case!Unfortunately your favorite persons
home is often a source of frustration and work. Sowouldnt you love
to help them enjoy their most valuable investment a little bit more?
Put that giftmoney that would otherwise go into another cashmere
sweater or piece of expensive jewelry towards a gift for the home.I know what youre thinking. Youre worried that yourgiftwill be as warmly welcomed as giving
them an iron. Or a new vacuum cleaner. Merry Christmas, honeynow get to work!
Sure, if you dont choose yourgiftwisely, it can be interpreted that way.
(We can help you avoid making those awkward mistakes. Just read the Ho-Ho-NO sidebar on P. 47) But if
you plan yourgiftwisely, you may just give them the bestgiftthey have ever received.
We pulled together a few dozen of our most discerning, opinionated and funny readers and invited
them to a focus group! Heres a roundup of some of their most unique home gift ideas.
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 37
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Seven Stone Atlanta Home Improvemen.indd 1 9/14/15 3:30 PM1115_036-051_Gift-Guide-Focus-Group.indd 38 10/20/15 8:28 AM
Julie: A Sub-Zero and Wolf toaster oven! That would be a great investment in somebodys kitchen.I need to warm up these quesadillas and I didnt want to heat up my whole oven to do it.Its more energy ef cient, more green, more simple!
Lindsay: Yes! Call it a
countertop oven! It modernizes it and really makes it sound more fun. Its so far beyond just toast!
Jesse: Im more of a tools guy. Id rather the kids pool their funds and buy me a great new toolmuch more than a new sweater.
Jennifer: I think a wine cooler is a greatgift.Add in a high-end wine
bottle opener.
GiftideasOur focus group says give a gift of home improvement
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Lindsay: Matching Hangers! It will make them feel like they have a custom closet. Surprise them by rearranging their closet with new, matching hangers and then having the present be you opening the door and showing them their newly organized closet. I think that would be a greatgift!
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 39
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Heather: A wall-
mounted replace. Theyre very
affordable and can go anywhere
in the house. Its a luxury
item, and most people wouldnt have it. And its
romantic!
Connie: I come from a designer perspective,
but I think a set of nice, high-end picture frames is a greatgift, especially if someone
were to frame some of my favorite family photos in them. A lot of people wouldnt spend that money
for frames for themselves.If you dont know what size, a safe bet
is 4x 6.
Jennifer: I would love nice matching throws. I have a nice afghan my grandmother made and another blanket we use for the dog, but nothing matches. It would be great to have nice, high-quality throws for each member of the family. When you buy them all together as a set like that, you help upgrade the design of the room, too!
GiftideasOur focus group says give a gift of home improvement
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Kristin: I think a rainfall or
massage showerhead would be a great gift. Its affordable for a
gift but not something most people would buy for themselves. It would make any
shower feel that much more luxurious!
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AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 41
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A D E S I G N / B U I L D C O M PA N Y1115_036-051_Gift-Guide-Focus-Group.indd 42 10/20/15 8:28 AM
Connie: This is de nitely a luxury gift, but I would love an all-terrain
golf cart. Not only can you get around the neighborhood in it, but you can also carry heavy items and do yard work with it!
Deborah: I would
love a small refrigerator for my craft studio! I can have friends over and have wine and cheese and crackers.Turn it into an actual entertaining area!
GiftideasOur focus group says give a gift of home improvement
Jo Ann: This is dreaming big and de nitely in the luxury category, but I would love to have my
patio or deck covered so I could use it year round.
Michelle: Solar light sculptures. Metal sculptures with solar lights that light up every evening. Some local artists make gorgeous ones!
that light up every evening. Some local artists make gorgeous ones!
Phot
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of A
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on.c
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& M
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FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
FOR OVER 30 YEARSSpecializing in Kitchens & Baths
Basement Build-OutsRoom AdditionsCovered PorchesSunrooms
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A D E S I G N / B U I L D C O M PA N Y AtlantaHomeImprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 431115_036-051_Gift-Guide-Focus-Group.indd 43 10/20/15 8:28 AM
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A Pros Take: HGTV Designer Chip Wade Weighs InMy advice for gifting home improvement-related items is a lot like the advice I give for any home improvement project. Always start with a master plan!
Take the time to draw out a scaled plan or hire an architect to provide you with as-build documents. Brainstorm how the proposed gift interacts with other parts of the home. Better still, invest in a consultation with your favorite designer who can help you create a true vision for the gift.
Overall, I recommend combining a gift item with an experience. Arrange cooking classes to go with the new oven or schedule an appointment with a personal shopper for their new customized closet. Buy them a woodworking class for their new set of tools! An experience like that will become a treasured memory every time that item is used.
Want to really swing for the fences when it comes to a personalized gift? Go for high sentiment and emotion. Consider hiring an artist or fabricator to repurpose a family heirloom that currently serves no purpose in your home into something your loved one can actually use.
Ive seen pianos used for art installations and an old chandelier made into a necklace. Ive even seen doors turned into vintage coffee tables. These pieces provide function while, at the same time, serve as greatand meaningfulconversation starters.
Chip is host, designer and executive producer for several shows on HGTV. To learn more, visit ChipWade.com or follow him on social media @chipwade.
44 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2015 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Alicia: My husband wants to use the garage as a workshop, but we dont have a lot of outlets out there. So it would be
nice to have an electrician install more wiring to make it more useful. Editors note: Have the wiring installed right before Christmas Day and hide new outlets with boxes, hanging items etc. On Christmas morning, surprise them by bringing them out to the garage, icking on the light switch and having new lamps turn on all around the garage!
GiftideasOur focus group says give a gift of home improvement
Deanna: Id love any
kind of rollout shelves for my lower cabinets. {Editors note: No more crouching and digging, and they are surprisingly affordable.}
Judy: I would love one
of those slide-out appliance shelves. Its getting harder and harder to haul appliances out of the cabinet, and it makes me want to use them less. If I knew I could just slide it out and use it and slide it back in, Id de nitely get more use out of my big mixers, etc.
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Frankie: I would
love a Seiko coffee maker. You pour the whole beans in the top; it grinds them and then can make just one cup of coffee. Its a little more green and better for the environment since they dont use individual disposable cups.
Photo courtesy of Miele
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Julie: I would love
a new mailbox. Not only would it make me happy coming and going each day, but it also would make the whole street even prettier.If someone gave me a catalog and let me choose which one I wanted myself, that would be great. Maybe pair it with agiftcard to a local nursery so I could plant around it myself too!
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