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& & THE COMPLETE RESOURCE MAGAZINE FOR YOUR HOME DECEMBER 2013 Complimentary www.michianahouseandhome.com michiana Cabin Fever Warm and Fuzzy Feeling Restore, Refinish, Rejuvenate!

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Page 1: Complimentary michiana THE ...€¦ · Handcrafted Log Furniture | Heirloom Quality Custom Furniture Available Beautify your home or lodge with the rustic look of log furniture. 260-768-4140

&&T H E C O M P L E T E R E S O U R C E M A G A Z I N E F O R Y O U R H O M E D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3

Complimentarywww.michianahouseandhome.comm i c h i a n a

Cabin Fever

Warm andFuzzy Feeling

Restore,Refinish,

Rejuvenate!

Page 2: Complimentary michiana THE ...€¦ · Handcrafted Log Furniture | Heirloom Quality Custom Furniture Available Beautify your home or lodge with the rustic look of log furniture. 260-768-4140

Middlebury Home Town Holidays

Shop Local this Holiday Season, Avoid the Bustle, Enjoy the Magic

Dutch CountryMarket

11401 County Road 16 • Middlebury, IN 46540(574) 825-3594

Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-5:30pm • Sat. 8:30am-5:00pm

Choose from “Our Favorite” selections or customizewith hundreds of items to choose from such as:

Katie’s Homemade Noodles, Whipped Honey,Pure Honey, Jumbo Jelly Beans, Peanut Butter Spread,Jams & Fruit Butters, Popcorn Seasonings & Salt, Salsa

*We Ship anywhere in the USA!*

Holiday Gift Baskets & Boxes

In-Store Holiday SpecialsHrs. M-F 9-5; Sat 9-4

574.825.1902

Locally Crafted Furniture

Smoked Meats, Cheese...and one nice butcher!

• Smoked Ham • Smoked Turkey • Prime Rib Roast / pre-seasoned or unseasoned• Polish kielbasa • Meat & Cheese Tray

Just west of the stoplight in downtown Middlebury 574•825•2940

Order Early!

Surprise the family with an extra special holiday meal!

Tues., Wed. 9-5;Thurs., Fri. 9-6;

Sat. 8-2

108 S. Main St.

OLD CREAMERY ANTIQUESPedal Cars • Collectable Toys

Gas Pumps • PrimitivesFurniture • Automotive items

Glassware • Filling Station ItemsFishing Collectables • Coin Operated Machines

Collectable Books • Kitchen Accessories

333 North Main St. • Middlebury, IN

574-358-0188~ OPEN ~

M-Sat 10-5, Sun 1-5

Your Christmas List!

Stop In!

Stop in at the Pumpkin Vine Cafefor breakfast & lunch!

Gifts For All Ages!

COLLISION SERVICE

Call for Appt.574-825-2965

13024 U.S. 20Middlebury, IN 46540

Specializing in Collision Repair, Alignment, Oil Changes, Brakes and Air Conditioning

From our familyto yours,

Happy Holidays!

www.daveslawnscaping.com

(574) 825-887359504-B CR 33MiddleburyIN 46540

We specialize in:• Lawn Installations usingDrill Seed, Hydroseed& Sod

• Paver Installation ofDriveways, Patios &Walkways

• Retaining WallInstallations

• Landscape Installations

Our Goal is to provide our customers with quality service at a fair price while exceeding your

expectations at every step in the process. We will help youenhance the beauty and value of your home!

&arns oover

HARDWARE101 S. Main. Middleburywww.varnsandhoover.com

(574) 825-2705 7:30am-6pm M-F7:30am-5pm Sat.

Willow Tree Dept. 56 Radio FlyerExtensive Gift Department

TheMarket Place

511 S. Main St., Middlebury574-825-4001

dAntiques dCollectiblesdAmish Primitive Painted Furniture

d 100’s of Metal Signs, Books, Puzzles & More!d 10,000 Sq. Ft. Indoor Showroom

Friday, Dec. 20MiddleburyShops.com

“Sharing is Caring”3rd Friday’s

“Sharing is Caring”

Page 3: Complimentary michiana THE ...€¦ · Handcrafted Log Furniture | Heirloom Quality Custom Furniture Available Beautify your home or lodge with the rustic look of log furniture. 260-768-4140

No twopieces areever thesame!

Handcrafted Log Furniture | Heirloom QualityCustom Furniture Available

Beautify your home or lodge with the rustic look of log furniture.

260-768-4140Mon.-Fri. 10-5; Sat. 9-4:30

or by appointment

Visit our online store atwww.dutchmanlogfurniture.com

7275W 200N • Shipshewana, IN 465651/2 mi. south from the main square in Shipshewana, then east 3/4 mi.

| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 3

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4 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

December 6

First Friday: HometownHolidaySupport your community by shopping locallyat Goshen’s First Friday December event.Downtown Goshen’s retail and servicestores offer unique holiday gifts for yourbusiness, friends and family. Christmas treelighting and caroling will start at 6:40 p.m. onWashington Street. Goshen High School willpresent “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the GoshenTheater, located on Main Street.5-9 p.m.cityonthego.org

December 6

South Bend’s First FridayThe South Bend’s First Friday theme will beDowntown for the Holiday and will feature atree lighting, Santa’s arrival, shopping, fire-works and more. So check out what down-town South Bend has to offer and maybecross a few people off your shopping list.dtsbfirstfridays.com

December 6

Hometown Holly DaysFirst Fridays in downtown Warsaw will begetting into the holiday spirit with great shop-ping, dining and entertainment for the wholefamily.5-9 p.m.Downtown Warsawwww.koscvb.org

December 6-8

Festival of CarolsGoshen College presents its annualChristmas extravaganza featuring singersand instrumentalists from five GoshenCollege ensembles, plus the CommunitySchool of Arts Shout for Joy children’s choir,in a musical celebration of the season.7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 and 7; 4 p.m. Dec. 8Admission feeSauder Concert Hall, located on GoshenCollege’s campusgcmusiccenter.org

December 6-8 and 13-14

Madrigal DinnerStep back to the 16th century and celebratethe coming of Christmas at the MadrigalDinner with a candlelit banquet. You will bewelcomed and attended to by the Lords andLadies of the Court while jesters, minstrelsand musicians entertain you.7 p.m.; the matinee performance will be at 2 p.m. Dec. 8Admission chargeQuaker Haven Camp111 EMS D16C Lane, Syracuselakesareaplayers.info

December 6-31

Central ParkHoliday Light DisplayThis free holiday light display occurs inWarsaw’s Central Park and features morethan 200,000 lights. The display will be liteach evening, so take a stroll through thepark and enjoy the lights and accompanyingmusic.4 p.m.-midnightwww.koscvb.org

michianaaround December 7, 14, 21, 18

Trains at the MuseumThe allure and intrigue of trains makes for avery special room that comes to life with thesights and sounds of the rail. You’ll see andhear four model trains and a trolley chuggingaround the tracks on a 40-foot board amidminiature town merchants and utilities.Museum visitors, with the push of buttons, cancontrol the scenery.11 a.m.-1p.m. SaturdaysNo charge, donations welcomedMarshall County Museum123 N. Michigan St.Plymouthwww.visitmarshallcounty.org

December 10-14

Hoosier HolidayThis show is for the whole family, appealing tokids from ages 1 to 92. Featuring traditionaland not-so-traditional holiday songs, this showwill both entertain and warm your heart.7:30 p.m.Admission chargeThe Old Train Depot115 E. Market St.Piercetonwww.bestschotzproductions.com

December 11

Elkhart ArtWalkTake a free, self-guided tour of the public artphenomenon known as downtown. ArtWalkbrings art lovers and community friends to-gether at Elkhart’s ever-evolving downtown.With exciting and unique offerings aroundevery corner, downtown Elkhart celebrates thearts and artists who enhance its community.5-8 p.m.www.downtownelkhart.org

December 13

Second Fridays: PlymouthExplore what downtown Plymouth merchantshave to offer during the holiday season.5-8 p.m.www.visitmarshallcounty.org

December 20

Santa in PiercetonSanta will visit Pierceton at 6:30 p.m. Friday,Dec. 20, at the community building. There willbe treats, pictures taken, cookies and hotchocolate.Piercetonwww.piercetonchamber.com

December 20-21

Holy WalkCelebrate the spirit of Christmas by participat-ing in the journey to Bethlehem. Doors openat 5 p.m. Friday and then at 4:30 p.m.Saturday. The shuttle bus service toBethlehem leaves Bremen High School, 511W. Grant St., every 15 minutes. Dress warmly.Bremenwww.bumchurch.org/holywalk.php

December 27-28

Shipshewana Ice FestivalIce carvers will be creating carvings from iceblocks all over Shipshewana, either the spon-sor’s or the carver’s choice. Many stores willbe open until 8 p.m.10 a.m.-8 p.m.www.shipshewana.com

December 7

Kids Day and Santa in ShipshewanaFamilies will want to flock to Shipshewanafor Kids Day and Santa in Shipshewana.There will be free games, prizes and otherfun activities for children 1-12 years of ageat participating merchants. Children pick upa free passport and itinerary between 10a.m.-1 p.m. at Davis Mercantile. Santa willthen be at the Wolfe Community Building,345 Morton St., from noon-3p.m.www.shipshewana.com

December 7

Holiday Festival andCommunity Tree LightingThe Village at Winona will be hosting itsHoliday Festival and Community TreeLighting from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 7. Hot chocolate and cookies, plus carolers, willbe available throughout the day. Join the funat 5:30 p.m. for live Christmas music, cook-ies and hot chocolate as the communityChristmas tree is lit.The Village at Winonawww.koscvb.com

7680 W 200 S, Topeka, INTake SR 5, South of Shipshewana

located on 200 S., East of SR 5

(260) 768-4051 or 1 (800) 892-2170

Stop In or Order Online, We Ship UPSwww.yoderpopcorn.com

GreatGift

Ideas!

BAECwww.baec.com574.293.0997 BAKFC

www.bakfc.com • 574.267.6125

Happy Holidays from your local builders associations!Your Local Connections to

Qualified & Trusted Builders & Remodelers

Page 5: Complimentary michiana THE ...€¦ · Handcrafted Log Furniture | Heirloom Quality Custom Furniture Available Beautify your home or lodge with the rustic look of log furniture. 260-768-4140

Our window is stronger than it

has to be.We test it to withstand…

-20° Arctictemperatures…

and 8” of soaking rain an hour

120 mph whipping winds…

The strongest window will help keep you and your home safe.

• As the replacement window division of Andersen, we promise you a window that’s been tested to last.*

• You only want to do this job once, so we made our windows’ Fibrex® material twice as strong as vinyl.

Call for your FREE Window Diagnosis

1-800-410-37361Offer not available in all areas, discount applied by retailer representative at time of contract execution and ap-plies to purchase of 4 or more windows and/or patio doors. Buy two windows, get the second two windows, of equal or lesser value, 40% off. Cannot be combined with other offers. To qualify for discount offer, initial contact for a free Window Diagnosis must be made and documented on or before 12/31/13 with the appointment then occurring no more than 10 days after the initial contact. 0% APR for 60 months available to well qualified buyers on approved credit only. Not all customers may qualify. Higher rates apply for customer with lower credit ratings. Financing not valid with other offers or prior purchases. No Finance Charges will be assessed if promo balance is paid in full in 60 months. Renewal by Andersen retailers are independently owned and operated retailers, and are neither brokers nor lenders. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only, and all financing is provided by third-party lenders unaffiliated with Renewal by Andersen retailers, under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lender, all subject to credit requirements. Renewal by Andersen retailers do not assist with, counsel or negotiate financing, other than providing customers an introduction to lenders interested in financing. Lic: CT: 2101197980. Lic: MI: D9233F. PG25 pressure differential applied to the windows (48” x 48” size) in the lab on structural test only. Most Renewal by Andersen double-hung, picture and casement windows meet this structural performance. Temperature performance tested in differential chamber. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are marks of Andersen Corporation. ©2013 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. ©2013 Lead Surge, LLC. All rights reserved. *See limited warranty for details.

Offer ENDS November 30th

40% OFF1BUY 1 WINDOW GET 1 WINDOW

OR

5 YEARS NO INTEREST1

Offer ENDS December 31st

| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 5

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6 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

contents

www.michianahouseandhome.com

PUBLISHER....................Ron Baumgartner: [email protected] MANAGER .................Collette Knepp: [email protected] OF MARKETING.........Kip Schumm: [email protected] MANAGER ...............Vicky Howell: [email protected] ASSISTANT...Darlene Eichelberger: [email protected] EXECUTIVE............Karen Johnson: kjohnson2@the-papers.comEDITOR................................................Sarah Wright: [email protected] WRITERS .........................Julie Young, Shelley Swift, Teresa NicodemusGRAPHIC DESIGNERS....................................Maymie Ankrom, Elaine StichterDIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION..................Jerry Ryan: [email protected]

Michiana House & Home (“H&H”) is a newsmagazine with emphasis on home decor, designand remodeling. H&H does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorialcontent, nor does H&H or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial con-tent appear in any publication.

H&H reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publicationand to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space.

House & Home has not independently tested any services or products advertised hereinand has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. H&Hmakes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding thoseservices or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readersare advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation profes-sionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products.

No reproduction of Michiana House & Home is allowed without express written permission. Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $23.00 for one year; and $38.00

for two years. Mail the order form, along with your check to Michiana House & Home,P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542. Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt.

Copyright © 2013.

PO Box 188 • 206 South Main St. • Milford, IN 46542800.733.4111/Fax 800.886.3796

Editorial ext. 2307 & Advertising ext. 2362www.michianahouseandhome.com

Member of:

4 Around Michiana

7 Warm and FuzzyFeelingFamily rooms offer comfortable spaces

10 Pass-through PerfectionKitchen cut-outs add functionand charm.

12 Cabin FeverWhere rustic charm and modern convenience meet

14 Holiday Gift GuideShop locally this holiday season.

16 Shine Year-roundWith Metallics

18 Preparing Your Home For Winter

19 What To Expect In 2014New feature, same quality content

is on tap for the new year.

20 It’s A Bird. It’s A Plane...It’s A Museum?

21 Ask the ProAntiques – Timeless Treasures

22 Restore, Refinish, Rejuvenate!The art of building and refurbishing

solid wood furniture.

24 Keep The Holidays BloomingCare guidelines for poinsettias

25 Business Gallery

26 Restoring: A LaborOf Love

It’s no secret, I’m anything but a winterperson. When the weather outside isfrightful, I’m inside snuggling under thecovers — cats possibly lounging on me— with a hot cup of tea beside me andmy latest fiction project in front of me. Itruly see no reason to venture forth intothat white stuff, and I am very vocalabout my belief that it should only snowa week before Christmas and then stopafter New Year’s Day. But Indiana refus-es to cooperate; in fact, it often proves

to be unpredictable and, sometimes, just harsh.But beyond my love-hate relationship with the snow, I genuine-

ly enjoy this time of year with its festive atmosphere, beautiful deco-rations, carols and the general feeling of goodwill toward our fellowhumans. This December issue of Michiana House & Home will high-light the season’s festive air with a feature on cozy family rooms thatmake for great entertaining while also keeping everyone in the spacewarm with space heaters and other heating options.

Feature writer Julie Young will bring log homes to the fore-front, because let’s be honest: who hasn’t dreamed of living in acabin, particularly if you grew up on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s novels likeI did? With the holidays being fully upon us, we will also explore thekitchen pass, an architectural statement that not only simplifies foodservice, but pass-through the cook involved with all the festivitieshappening in the dining room.

If you’ve ever been envious of a friend’s ability to add antiquesinto their décor, our Pro has some tips for you. Additionally, learnabout refinishing solid wood furniture and decorating with metalliccolors just in time for the new year. Then as the holidays wrap up,what is there to do with those poinsettias? Well, we have the answerin this issue, too. Of course, we will share a little bit about what thenew year holds for MHH.

So sit back with your favorite hot beverage, forget about thatholiday rush — or that list of unmet New Year’s resolutions — andenjoy this issue of MHH. After all, everyone needs a break during thistime of year!

So have a Merry Christmas and wonderful New Year’s! And asalways, stay safe.

Sarah Wright, EditorEmail: [email protected]

editor’s note...

December 2013V O L U M E 1 0 N O . 8

&&T H E C O M P L E T E R E S O U R C E M A G A Z I N E F O R Y O U R H O M E D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3

Complimentarywww.michianahouseandhome.com

m i c h i a n a

Cabin Fever

Warm andFuzzy Feeling

Restore,Refinish,

Rejuvenate!

Page 7

Page 10

cover photo: shutterstock.com

Page 22

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 7

warm and fuzzy feelingby julie young

house & home feature writer

Family rooms are the place where people congregate for the big game,gather for holiday celebrations and hang out in the evenings; they

truly serve as the setting for the reality show we call life. With the winter season upon us, why not create a cozy, comfortablearea that offers a warm and fuzzy feeling. The weather outside may

be frightful, but your family room can be delightful!

WARMING TRENDSIt’s not hard to transform your family room by seeking out unique décorfrom stores that offer something unique and eclectic. At DowntownDesign & Consign in Nappanee, Lucinda Gaut says that she has anumber of great items that will make any family room stand out — all ata fraction of what you would pay in a retail store.

“The nice thing about the family room is that it is really one of themost comfortable areas in the house, and you can do a lot with it,” shesays. “Here at the store we have florals, light fixtures and unusualpieces you won’t find anywhere else.”

In addition to the rare find, when homeowners shop consignment,they can feel free to experiment in ways they may not if they had topay full price. No matter if you want to repurpose a mudroom bench,take a bookcase and lay it on its side for a combination window seatand storage, or pick up a great-looking ottoman, accent table or objetd’art, you’ll pay a third of its original cost.

family rooms offercomfortable spaces

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8 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

“Some of the trends I have noticed are homeowners using a mixture offabrics and materials to create a room they love,” Gaut says. “We no longerhave to coordinate perfectly, which gives people the freedom to mix and matchin new and exciting ways. Folks are mixing woods, glass, metals and other ele-ments to create a warm and inviting look.”

GET FIRED UPAs we mentioned last month, fire features are another important element of thefamily room/hearth room setting, and they have gotten an overhaul in the pastfew years. Homeowners can choose from traditional wood-burning or pellet-burning options to gas and electric “flip-and-flame” choices.

“People love the look of fire, but they want that choice to fit into theirlifestyle. They aren’t as interested in chopping and hauling in firewood as theyonce were,” says Mary Ann Herendeen of the Hearth & Home Design Center inSouth Bend.

Need the heat, but don’t have the room for a traditional fire feature? Warmit up with a space heater. Space heaters can be a great option to add heat to aspecific place without overheating the rest of the house.

According to the Department of Energy, most space heaters work by con-vection — the circulation of air in a room — while some rely on radiant heating.Radiant heaters emit infrared radiation that directly heats objects and peoplewithin their line of sight, making them more efficient when you will be in a roomfor only a few hours and can stay within the line of sight of the heater.

Of course, safety is the top issue when considering a space heater foryour home. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that morethan 25,000 residential fires every year are associated with the use of spaceheaters, resulting in more than 300 deaths. In addition, an estimated 6,000 peo-ple receive hospital emergency room care for burn injuries associated with con-tacting the hot surfaces of room heaters, mostly in non-fire situations. (See side-bar for more information about space heater safety.)

Dangers of carbon monoxideDon’t fall prey to the “invisible killer”

Carbon monoxide is known as the “invisible killer” because itis a colorless, odorless and poisonous gas. Each year morethan 150 people die in the U.S. from non-fire related CO poi-soning associated with consumer products, including genera-tors, water heaters, fireplaces, stoves and furnaces. Here aresome tips to protect yourself and your family:• Fuel-burning appliances can be potential CO sources.Make sure they are kept in good working order, properly in-stalled and being operated according to the manufacturer’s di-rections.• Have the heating system, plus chimneys and vents, in-spected and serviced annually by a trained service technician.• Examine vents and chimneys regularly for improper con-nections, visible cracks, rust or stains.• Operate portable generators outdoors and away from opendoors, windows and vents.• Install battery-operated or plug-in CO detectors.• Test your CO alarms frequently and replace dead batteries.• Be aware of the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning:headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness.Seek fresh air immediately if you have these symptoms. Callfor assistance from a neighbor’s home and alert medical staffthat CO poisoning is suspected.• Call the fire department to determine if it is safe to reenterthe home.

Information from the U.S. Consumer Product SafetyCommission website, www.cpsc.gov

Space heater safetyWhen buying and installing a small space heater, follow these guidelines from theDepartment of Energy:

• Only purchase newer model heaters that have all of the current safety features.Make sure the heater carries the Underwriter's Laboratory label.

• Choose a thermostatically controlled heater, because they avoid the energy wasteof overheating a room.

• Select a heater of the proper size for the room you wish to heat. Do not purchase oversized heaters. Most heaters come with a general sizing table.

• Locate the heater on a level surface away from foot traffic. Be especially careful to keep children and pets away from the heater.

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QualityWorkmanship

&GuaranteedSatisfactionSince 1991!

[email protected]

2700 W. Wilden Ave., Ste.14Goshen, IN • 574.535.0177

Remodels &New

Construction

Before

After

| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 9

MHH’s holiday playlist Try these tunes to set the scene for your holiday

• “Orange Colored Sky” – Lady Gaga• “Little Drummer Boy” – Josh Groban• “Let it Snow” – Jewel• “Happy Holidays” – Andy Williams

EASY ENTERTAININGWith so many parties in the upcoming weeks, it’s a safe bet that your fami-ly/hearth space will see plenty of guests and pull double duty throughoutthe month of December. Homeowners can create an easy inviting look byleaning on some surefire bets for creating winter ambience.

Go overboard on the candles, though take into consideration the agesof your guests and place them in appropriate places. Tea lights and votivescan really create an elegant look on the dining room table and look greaton the mantle as well.

Use music to add atmosphere to the room. Holiday classics are al-ways a great idea, but instead of relying on Bing Crosby and Nat KingCole, add in some Lady Gaga and Trans-Siberian Orchestra as well. If youare feeling a little of that holiday overload, bag the carols altogether andopt for some great soundscape music compilations that can be found atstores for under $10.

Create flow and stop everyone from gathering in one place. Be sure tohave finger foods in a variety of locations to keep the crowd from hangingaround the kitchen island, in addition to keeping the party moving. If it is afamily gathering, play home movies from holidays past that can honor fami-ly members no longer with you, plus spark conversations and memoriesfrom years gone by.

“There is really a lot you can do with your family room throughout thewinter, and you are only limited by your imagination!” says Gaut. ■

RESOURCES:

Brandenberry Furniture1045 N. SR 5Shipshewana, IN260.768.3270www.BrandenberryFurniture.com

Downtown Design & Consign101 S. Main St.Nappanee, IN574.773.9200www.downtowndesignandconsign.com

• “White Christmas” – Bing Crosby• “The Christmas Song” – Nat King Cole• “Here is Christmas” – The Lovemongers

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Customcrafted in the Heartland...

erry FBrandenboterry�s furniBrandenb

ng the highece.as beautiful

els committed to providing the highest lev

is an investment, meant to be as beautiful and functional

n the Heartland...© Copyri

Open Mon-Sat 9-5 and by Appointment270(260) 768-3on 5 & 20, ShipshewanaJuncti

years from now as it is tod

Customcrafted i

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n the Heartland...ghts reserved.ght 2014. All ri© Copyri

Open Mon-Sat 9-5 and by Appointment270 com BrandenberryFurniture.on 5 & 20, Shipshewana

the experie

od furniturelove.

and the experience unmatched.

..time to answer all of your questions about handcrafted wood furniture and design.

Hearth & Home Design Center51129 SR 933 NSouth Bend, IN574.272.3030or 800.769.3031www.hearthandhome-sb.com

LJ Wagner1200 E. Market St.Nappanee, IN574.773.5000www.ljwagner.com

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10 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

by shelley swifthouse & home feature writer

If your kitchen seems a little closed off or boxy, consider creating apass-through window to open it up to an adjacent living room ordining area. Pass-throughs are a great way to open up a space

and help blend two rooms together. They’re also a convenient portal for passing through food and drinks.

Last but not least, pass-throughs can make a unique architectural statement in a kitchen that is lacking in such details.

Whatever the reason, a pass-through might be just the right addition toyour existing kitchen or a must-have feature the next time you’re building ahome. Talk to your builder, remodeler or a kitchen designer to see how apass-through can benefit your home.

CONNECTING WITH GUESTSAlthough its roots are not exactly known, a historical look at kitchens (history.org) suggests that pass-throughs were brought about as a way toconnect the kitchen with the main living area of the house. Centuries ago,kitchens were relegated to basements or separate structures from the mainhouse. Food was often prepared in dark and dank conditions, often byslaves or hired help, then presented in a much more attractive area for dining.

Over time kitchens made their way into the main living spaces. Somuch so that they’re now known as the “heart of the home,” a place where

kitchen cut-outs addfunction and charm

pass-through perfectionphotos courtesy of Cana Cabinetry, Elkhart, IN

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 11

friends and family mingle and where food preparation often takes centerstage.

While many newer layouts feature an open floor plan, where cooking,dining and living areas are combined, older homes often feature smallerkitchens that feel a bit closed off or separated from the main social areas ofthe house. In such situations, a pass-through can be an ideal way to serveguests or facilitate with clean-up, by handing used cups and plates backthrough to the kitchen area.

“It can make entertaining more convenient,” says Bunny Newton, akitchen designer with Modern Kitchen in Elkhart. “Pass-throughs can be es-pecially convenient when connecting to a rec room, sun porch or someother area that you want to get a little more use out of.”

No matter what rooms they connect, open windows not only help withserving and cleanup, but can help facilitate conversation as well. Guestscan relax in the living area while making conversation with the cooks in thekitchen. If a pass-through opening is wide enough, consider placing a fewstools around the window — on either side — to create a makeshift bar.

ARCHITECTURAL STATEMENTWhile they’re certainly functional, pass-through windows can be decorativeas well. In a smaller home such a window can make small rooms seem lessboxy and closed in. In larger homes they can break up the ample wallspace, creating three-dimensional visual interest.

“Adding a pass-through in a wall helps the space feel a bit bigger andis a great way to open the space up to another room,” says Layna Johnson,a kitchen designer with Cana Cabinetry in Elkhart. “A lot of pass-throughsare about 36 inches wide so they add a good amount of space.”

The edge of pass-throughs are often drywalled to blend in seamlesslywith the walls in both connecting rooms, although some are decked out withdecorative casing. Such casing could match the baseboards or crownmolding in either room, or be stained to match the kitchen cabinetry.

The flat surface of the pass-through can also compliment the kitchen,by adding a surface that matches the kitchen counters. Whether it’s granite,tile or any other type of material, the pass-through counter can make astatement and complement its adjoining rooms.

According to Johnson, there’s no set height recommendation for pass-through windows. “They’re often a little higher than the kitchen counter,which is a good height for serving food and drinks,” she says.

A pass-through can have a boxy, square shape or an arched design.Wider spaces can hold a rectangular opening, which could allow for awider view of the next room or accommodate more people who want to con-gregate at the window.

If you only want to use the pass-through on occasion, consider addinga glass window or window treatment that can be raised or lowered, openedor closed as you see fit. Glass window pass-throughs are especially con-venient on porches or other outdoor spaces. They can be closed throughthe winter months, and opened up for spring and summer entertaining.

Window treatments, like roman shades or traditional curtains with pull-backs, are also great ways to close off a pass-through whenever more pri-vacy is desired.

If left open, a pass-through can be enhanced with a few warm andinviting touches like a small floral arrangement, candles and decorativeknickknacks. Even a whimsical, diner-style dinner bell can be a fun featureused to let guests know when dinner is served. ■

RESOURCES:

Cana Cabinetry29194 Phillips St.Elkhart, IN574.262.8019www.canacabinetry.com

Doors & Drawers2302 Dierdorff RoadGoshen, IN574.533.3509www.doorsanddrawersinc.com

The Granite Shop1740 Markle St.Elkhart, IN574.296.1113www.graniteshop.biz

kitchens, etc.1150 N. Nappanee St.Elkhart, IN574.264.5155www.kitchensetcinc.com

Modern Kitchen30513 Old US 20Elkhart, IN574.674.9989

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12 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

cabin feverby julie young,

house & home feature writer

When it comes to the embodiment of hearth and home, few structurescan hold a candle to the log cabin. It is an image that evokes rustic

charm, a simpler time and connects folks to a special place in Americanhistory. No matter if it is situated on a lake, nestled in the woods or thelone shelter on a snowy prairie field, the log cabin remains a symbol of

sustainable building and living in concert with the land.

NO LONGER A HUMBLE ABODEDespite the quaint characteristics associated with them, today’s modern logcabin has little in common with the drafty, dirt floor, one-room shack of yes-teryear. In fact, the modern log home is a solid construction that can in-clude all of the amenities and conveniences of its traditional counterpart.

Menno Petersheim of Dutchman Log Furniture in Shipshewana sayshe’s seen an increase in the number of people who either live in log homeson an annual basis or those who invest in a cabin as a secondary propertyalong a lake.

“It’s about half and half between those who live in log homes all thetime and those who have a secondary place on the lake,” he says. “Theyreally like the rustic look and feel of it, and they know that they don’t have tosacrifice anything by living in one.”

However, it’s not for everyone. The Internet offers hundreds of articlesfeaturing the pros and cons of log home living, plus the advantages anddisadvantages of kit homes versus traditional construction. One thing is certain, the move to log home living, whether seasonal or permanent,

where rustic charm andmodern convenience meet

requires consideration.Prospective homeowners need tothink about how the home will beput together, whether authentic orartificial logs are used, the level ofmaintenance that will be involvedand what layout will give them thebiggest bang for their buck uponcompletion. Remember loghomes are difficult to remodel.

They also want to talk withtheir lender to make sure they aregetting the fairest appraisal on thestructure. While log houses quali-fy for the same loans as mostother homes, Log Home Advisor,an online resource for log homeliving, cautions that banks mayunder-appraise the home's valueif there are few comparable loghomes in the area. A low apprais-al means the bank will lend lessmoney. A private appraiser spe-cializing in log or custom-builthomes will provide the most accu-rate estimate. If your bank doesnot allow third-party appraisals,consider using a different lender.

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photos courtesy of Dutchman Log Furniture,Shipshewana, IN

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 13

Locally, Creekside Saw Mill in Topeka specializes in helping build thehome of a customer’s dreams. Just bring in the floor plan, and their expertswill work to turn it into a reality. Creekside’s log homes are built from the finestquality and can include a porch and side overhang, shingles or metal roofingand interior walls, which are flat and can be stained with the color of yourchoice. They also sell interior and exterior beams, porch rails, log siding, ashwagon tongues, oak construction lumber, wishing wells and gazebos.

“Stop by and see us for more information or to get a quote,” the compa-ny says on its website.

home while others complete their entire abode with a more natural flare.“People really like that look, and they want high-quality pieces with those

features in their homes,” he says. “We are happy to provide them with thoseitems whether it is a bedroom or dining room suite, cabinetry, office furniture oraccessory items.”

He says that the artisans at Dutchman are constantly developing newhandcrafted Amish furniture for their customers. “My boss is amazing; whenhe looks at a log, he can see furniture whereas when I look at a log, I see fire-wood,” Petersheim laughs. “That’s the genius of what he is able to do with it.He feels out a log’s personality and creates the most beautiful items from it.He’s always trying new things, and our customers know that they are gettingthe highest quality product for the money.”

Wayne Fry at Hilltop Hickory Furniture in Ligonier says that he too hasseen an increase in the rustic trend, in both primary and secondary resi-dences. He says those who have always had the rustic look tend to remainloyal to it while others are embracing it with items that help them feel at home.

“We sell a lot of rustic bedroom furniture and dining room pieces,” hesays. “I think there is something about the rustic look that helps people feelpeaceful and relaxed.” ■

RESOURCES:

Creekside Saw Mill5765 W 400 STopkea, IN260.768.8126, ext. 2

Dutchman Log Furniture7275 W 200 NShipshewana, IN260.768.4140www.dutchmanlogfurniture.com

Hickory Hilltop Furniture3341 W 1200 NLigonier, IN260.593.2421

Lincoln’s Log Cabin: Though the original is long gone, a recreation of Lincoln’s boyhood

home is nestled in the “woods” of Indiana where Lincoln grew up. It was assembled from

authentic logs of the mid-19th century and reconfigured to represent the one room house that

the 16th President once called home.

The World Famous Log Cabin House: A popular attraction at state and county fairs, the

World Famous Log Cabin House was created from a solid piece of redwood tree by Len Moore

and travels the country delighting curiosity seekers. Once upon a time it was one of the most

popular exhibits at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum.

The Little House in the Big Woods: The replica of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved home is

a popular stop for fans of the “Little House” books traveling through Pepin, Wis. It sits on the

land that was once owned by Charles and Caroline Ingalls and features many items that reflect

the era in which the authoress lived.Fam

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OUTFITTING THE DIGSOnce you have purchased an existing log home or created your own fromscratch, it is time to outfit the house with the perfect rustic décor to fit your newlifestyle. Petersheim says there are a number of homeowners in the area wholike the rustic look for all or part of their home. He’s seen homeowners mix sleekwith something rough hewn to create a mixed media look in a conventional

photo courtesy of Hickory Hilltop Furniture, Ligonier, IN

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14 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

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Shop Locally

PlaquesShop our 10,000 sq. ft. showroom.Antiques, Wall Décor, 100’s ofmetal signs, collectibles, books,puzzles & more!Gifts for all ages!The Market Place511 S. Main St., Middlebury, IN574.825.4001

ReclinersQuality recliners, loveseats, sofas, gliders, rockers & wall hug-gers built on site. Choose from over 100 fabrics & leathers.Lambright Comfort Chairs, LLC1150S 700W, Topeka, IN. Take SR 5 south to 100S, go east to700W and then south 1/8 mile.260.768.4820

Gorgeous Jewelry ArmoireSolid wood construction. Canbe customized – choose yourwood species, hardware andinterior design options.Brandenberry Furniture1045 N SR 5,Shipshewana, IN260.768.3270BrandenberryFurniture.com

Popcorn Gift BasketChoose from our large selectionof gift baskets & tins. Stop in ororder online, and we will shipUPS to you. Yoder Popcorn7680 W. 200 S., Topeka, IN260.768.4051 or 800.892.2170www.yoderpopcorn.com

thisHoliday SeasonHoliday Season

Dutch Cleaning CertificateGreat gift certificate idea for those who are hard to buy for orwho need an extra pair of hands before and after guests arrive!574.537.0997www.dutchcleaning.com

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 15

Longaberger BasketsChoose a gift from our large

selection of Longaberger Baskets.Many different sizes and styles tochoose from including traditional

and seasonal designs. We alsocarry many unique collectibles! Downtown Design & Consign

101 S. Main St.,Nappanee, IN574.773.9200

Downtowndesignandconsign.com

Christmas wreathsLarge selection of hand-made Christmas wreaths.Live and artificial available.Custom wreaths can bemade upon request.Clayton Garden Center7185 N SR 13,North Webster, IN574.834.2249

Entertainment CenterStunning craftsmanship & attention to detail! Perfectaddition to any living or family room. Many styles &options available. Customizable.Weaver Furniture Sales7870 W 075 N, Shipshewana, IN260.768.7730 or 877.357.2106WeaverFurnitureSales.com

Nora Fleming serving plattersNora Fleming serving platters enhance any occasion withfestive interchangeable “minis.” Pair your favorite minifrom Nora Fleming’s wide selection with one of the variousplatters to make a statement at your next gathering.Minis are available for all occasions and holidays; andmake great hostess gifts!L. J. Wagner Home Interiors1200 E. Market St./U.S. 6 E.Nappanee, IN 574.773.5000www.ljwagner.com

Old Hoosier Meats Gift CertificateA thoughtful gift idea for those who are difficult to buy for! Or, stop inand let us help you customize a gift basket with our large assortmentof smoked meats, cheeses and unique jarred sauces, spices & rubs.Old Hoosier Meats101 Wayne St., Middlebury, IN, 574.825.2940

Log FurnitureHandcrafted log furniture & homedécor accessories. HeirloomQuality. Custom furniture available. No two pieces are ever the same!Dutchman Log Furniture7275 W 200 N,Shipshewana, IN260.768.4140www.dutchmanlogfurniture.com

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www.toscana-park.com | Gumwood Rd. | 1/4 mile north of SR 23, Mishawaka

The Olive Branch – Tastingof the finest imported extravirgin olive oils and balsamicvinegars from around theworld. Try before you buy.

Mon-Thurs 10am-7pm, Fri & Sat 10am-8pm, Sun noon-6pmwww.theolivebranchinc.com 574.855.1059

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm or by appointmentbudgetblinds.com 574.277.6800 or 888.882.8343

Budget Blinds – “a style for every pointof view” – Custom Window CoveringsShutters - Draperies - Blinds all the BESTBrands plus Shaw Area Rugs & muchmore! FREE in-home consultation,“Expert Fit” Measuring & Installation!

custom window coveringscustom window coverings

16 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

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by sarah wright,house & home editor

As the holidays hit full swing, metallic colors, especially silver and gold,make their appearance, adding luster to any party or celebration;

however, they don’t need to vanish after the new year starts.

We’ve all heard the song “Silver and Gold,” but really, metallic colors don’tneed to be isolated to just tinsel on a Christmas tree, silver bells or prettypaper used to wrap presents. Metallics can be dispersed throughout yourdwelling place in many different ways. From antique gold to brass,metallics can showcase your personal style, plus make a statement in anyroom no matter the season just like that perfect necklace paired with theright outfit.

Metallics can be integrated through furnishings, such as mirrors,sculptures, window treatments, sofas and more. These objects can be asolid metallic color or partially metallic while some furnishings will incorpo-rate a small amount of metallic flair through a pattern. There are several fin-ishes to choose from, including satin, polished, matte, antique and so on.With all these options, purchasing metallic colors can seem like a dauntingtask, but shops and designers offer a broad range of metallic furnishingsand are a good source to ask about properly adding them to your décor.

Beyond new items, don’t ignore what is already present in your home,some of which can be upcycled. Have old pieces of furniture refinished orpainted a metallic color. Also consider painting a small portion of a piece,like adding an intricate silver design on the tabletop of a white coffee table.Or perhaps take an old chair to be reupholstered by a professional withfabric that has a touch of metallic in its design. Spray paint can also beused to change old fixtures and furnishings into a more fitting hue or tohide unwanted signs of age and disrepair.

Gold gilding, popular during the Baroque and Rococo eras, is makinga comeback with individuals wanting to add luxury and grandeur to theirsettings. While several craft stores are offering kits that enable individualsto apply liquid or sheet gilding to a variety of objects, don’t be afraid toseek out a professional, especially when it comes to breathing life back intoyour moldings.

Then again, some might want their metallics to actually be their outfit,not just the accessories as it were. In that case, consider wallpapers, whichare no longer just for your grandmother. Wallpapers that use metallics aresleek and eye-catching, often using them within a pattern to add pizzazz.Some might also want to consider accent walls or incorporating a metallicsheen, like gold, to faux stucco or plaster paint jobs. Lean more towardmatte finishes to keep a room from becoming too flashy or disruptive.

shine year-round with metallics

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 17

Overly artistic? Consider creating an intricate mural on a black wallusing metallic paints, particularly gold, which will really pop. For those whoare not natural artists, stencils are a popular means for adding metallic de-signs to a blank wall.

Metallics are a terrific means to capture natural light and brightenrooms, while also giving the illusion of a larger space. Natural fibers and or-ganic elements can ground metallic colors, creating a classy, but not over-done, feel. Some people are even bringing in natural items like branches

and logs, spray painting them a metallic color before adding them to theirinterior décor.

Despite the old misconception, you can mix metallics; use your bestjudgment or contact a decorator for advice. As with all things, show re-straint when using metallics to prevent a way-over-the-top or gaudy room;after all, you probably wouldn’t walk out the door wearing 10 necklaces, 10rings and a large assortment of bracelets, right? So why would you over-burden your rooms? ■

HolidayGreetingsfrom our families

to yours…Michiana House & Home Staff:

Sarah, Karen, Maymie, Elaine, Vicky T., Julie,Shelley, Terrie, Darlene and Vicky H.

shutterstock.com

598 Shawnee Drive, Nappanee, IN 46550 www.bontragerconcrete.com

574-773-7311

• Stamped Overlays• Staining

• Metallic Epoxy• Polished Concrete

Our DecorativeSpecialties for InsideYour Home Include:

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18 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

25428 CR 20Elkhart, IN 46517574.293.0997www.baec.com

is a proud member of

preparingyour home for winter

CLEAN THOSE GUTTERSOnce the leaves fall, remove them and other debrisfrom your home’s gutters — by hand, scraper orspatula, and finally by a good hose rinse — so thatwinter’s rain and melting snow can drain. Cloggeddrains can form ice dams, in which water backs up,freezes or seeps into the house, the InsuranceInformation Institute says.

As you’re hosing done your gutters, look forleaks and misaligned pipes. Also make sure thedownspouts are carrying water aways from thehouse’s foundation, where it could cause flooding orother water damage.

BLOCK THOSE LEAKSOne of the best ways to winterize your home is tosimply block obvious leaks around your house, bothinside and out, experts say. The average Americanhome has leaks that amount to a 9-square-foot holein the wall, according to EarthWorks Group.

INSULATE YOURSELFAnother step homeowners should consider is addinginsulation to the existing insulation in their attic. Notonly is adding insulation inexpensive, it returns con-sumer’s investment through cost savings in heating.

In the U.S., homeowners — no matter the cli-mate conditions — need a minimum of 12 inches ofinsulation in their attics.

REVERSE THAT FANDon’t forget to reverse your ceiling fan. By reversingits direction from the summer operation, the fan willpush warm air downwards and force it to recirculate,keeping you more comfortable.

CHECK THE FURNACEIt’s a good idea to have furnaces cleaned and tunedannually. Costs will often run about $100-$125.Throughout the winter, check furnace filters on amonthly basis, changing them as needed. A dir ty fil-ter impedes air flow, reduces efficiency and couldeven cause a fire in an extreme case. Toss out thedir ty fiberglass filters; reusable electrostatic or elec-tronic filters can be washed.

FACE YOUR WINDOWSNow, of course, is the time to take down the windowscreen and put up storm windows, which provide anextra layer of protection and warmth for the home.Storm windows are particularly helpful if you have old,single-pane glass windows. But if you don’t havestorm windows, and your windows are leaky ordrafty, consider updating to a more efficient window.

Of course, windows are pricey. Budget to re-place them a few at a time, and in the meantime, buya window insulator kit. Basically, the kit is plasticsheeting that’s affixed to a window’s interior with dou-ble-stick tape. A hair dryer is then used to shrink-wrap the sheeting onto the window. While not pretty,the kit is inexpensive — most costing around $4 —and can be removed in the spring.

FINALLY, CHECK THOSE ALARMSThis is a great time to check the operation — andchange the batteries — on your home’s smoke de-tectors. Detectors should be replaced every 10years, fire officials say. Test them — older ones inparticular — with a small bit of actual smoke, andnot just by pressing the test button. Check to see thatyour fire extinguisher is where it should be and stillworks.

Also, invest in a carbon-monoxide detector; everyhome should have at least one.

So you’ve pulled yoursweaters out ofmothballs and foundyour mittens at thebottom of the coatcloset. But what aboutyour house: Is it prepared for the coldmonths ahead?

You’ll be a lot less comfortable in the coming months if youhaven’t girded Home,Sweet Home for Old ManWinter. So with thehelp of several experts, we’ve boileddown your winterpreparation to-do list:

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 19

what to expect in 2014

THE COMPLETE RESOURCE MAGAZINE FOR HOMEOWNERS

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One of the Tri-State area’s most beloved traditions returns Feb. 28-March 3. That’s when the Fort Wayne Home and Garden Show opens atthe Allen County Memorial Coliseum for its 40th anniversary edition.

Show owner and producer Karen Tejera said, “This year’s event isshaping up to be one of the best, most comprehensive and entertainingshows in its long history.”

More than 650 exhibits will be on hand with a wide array of the very lat-est in home and garden products and services. Show attendees will beable to obtain invaluable advice from an impressive roster of home andgarden experts and tour numerous gardens that can serve as idea-startersfor their own unique landscapes.

The popular interactive kids’ area also returns this year. Themed “OldMcDonald’s Farm,” the kids’ area provides a fun and festive diversion forthe entire family just off the main show floor. Features include a variety ofhands-on exhibits, a petting zoo, adoptable pets, ballet and martial artsdemonstrations and much more.

A great line-up of home and garden celebrities is set to entertain andeducate those who take full advantage of this show. They include JeffHolper, better known to fans as “The Mole Hunter”; 2011 Food NetworkStar finalist Jyll Everman; Erica Glasener, host of HGTV’s “A Gardener’sDiary”; and perennially popular morel mushroom maestro Alex Babich.

The Master Gardeners’ Stage also will be a busy spot again this year,Tejera noted, “There will be sessions scheduled to examine the urban for-est, perennials, herb gardening, rain barrels, tomatoes, butterflies, shrubs,hydrangeas and soil.”

Also on hand demonstrating their incredible skills will be the artists ofCreative Comedy Balloon and Face Art. Their fantastic balloon sculptureswill decorate various areas throughout the show, while one-on-one interac-tion with fans will take place in the “Old McDonald’s Farm” kids’ area.

Nearly 50,000 home and garden enthusiasts are anticipated to attendthe Fort Wayne Home and Garden Show in 2013. “This always is likehomecoming for us,” said Tejera, whose father, Ernie Kerns, founded theshow and whose daughter, Becky Williamson, now works with her to planthe annual exhibition. “We always love seeing so many friends and col-leagues who have been along on this ride with us for 40 years,” she said.

“We work year-round to present the best show possible for Fort Wayne.The people who live here in the Tri-State area have so much pride in theirhomes, and we love being able to bring them the best and newest in homeand garden products and services every year. We do our best to make theshow a one-stop-shop for all things home and garden and to make it anentertaining event that’s a great destination for the entire family,” Tejera ex-plained.

She continued, “We are so grateful for the support and friendship ofthe people of Fort Wayne and surrounding areas for 40 years now and lookforward to bringing the show to all of you for many, many years to come!”

The Fort Wayne Home and Garden Show is presented by Windows,Doors and More and sponsored by American Family Insurance. The showis a member of the Home & Garden Show Executives International and hasbeen selected for membership by Premier Home Shows, an organizationaffiliated with only the finest home and garden shows in North America.

The Fort Wayne Home and Garden Show runs Thursday, Feb. 28,through Sunday, March 3, inside Allen County Memorial Coliseum, 4000Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday,10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is$10 adults, $6 seniors 65 and better, and children 15 and under are free.Parking is $4 per vehicle in convenient, well-lit Coliseum lots.

Visit www.home-gardenshow.com for additional information and besure to clip the $2 discount coupons for admission in this issue.

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by julie young, house & home feature writer

For the past few years, Michiana House & Home has been proudto offer its readers a feature dedicated to the latest innovations insustainable living. We’ve helped homeowners learn what “goinggreen” is all about and helped them reduce their carbon footprintwith responsible choices that have improved their quality of life.

A few projects that will giveyou a big bang for your buck1. A new front door or garage door can

improve a home’s entry points.

2. Build a new deck or add a patio.

3. Finish a minor kitchen or bathroom remodel.

4. Replace your windows formaximum energy efficiency.

5. Complete a basement remodel.

Quick guide to help you prioritize your home improvements and updates:

January: Update linens. Buy fitness equipment.February: Inventory tools and replace necessary items.March: Arrange lawn/garden applications for the year.April: Start big remodel project.May: Plant, plant, plant!June: Buy new patio furniture.July: Update furniture pieces.August: Get outdoor end-of-season clearance deals.September: Electronic bargains are in abundance.October: Update appliances and kitchenware.November: Stock your pantry.December: Get the best deals on cars and home theater equipment.

Today many of the eco-friendly options that were once unique choices arenow part of the mainstream, and MHH has decided that the time has come toretire our monthly green feature and offer readers something new. Make no mis-take about it, MHH will continue to offer the most up-to-date information on sus-tainability, but these tips will be included within our regular monthly features.

In February 2014, MHH will begin its new feature: “Three projects to tackle.”Each month readers will learn about three projects that can be tackled over aweekend or two, which will range from projects any DIYer can handle to thosebest left to the pros. We’ll show you great ways to organize, small changes thatmake a big impact and renovations that can improve your lifestyle fairly quickly.

In January you will learn how to transform a closet. While in February, youwill learn how to plan a garden, and in March we will start seeds. And that’sonly the beginning! Throughout the year we will get experts to weigh in on ap-pliance upgrades, when to plant a tree and what varieties are a homeowner’sbest bet. We’ll find out about the latest trends in decorating and where you canspot fabulous finds that will transform every room of the house with minimal timeand effort.

“MHH is constantly working to add features that will enhance one’s home,whether by a professional or by themselves occasionally,” says Vicky Howell,publications manager for The Papers, Inc. “I, myself, am good at starting a proj-ect, then finding out it’s more than I should have tackled. By planning ahead,our readers can have the best of both worlds, utilizing their personal skills andthose of our advertising professionals.” ■

new feature,same qualitycontent is on tapfor the new year

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Page 20: Complimentary michiana THE ...€¦ · Handcrafted Log Furniture | Heirloom Quality Custom Furniture Available Beautify your home or lodge with the rustic look of log furniture. 260-768-4140

by julie younghouse & home feature writer

The place where Allen Stewart parks his car is no ordinary garage. It is, in fact, a museum. Located at 58005 CR 105 in Elkhart, the Hall of HeroesSuper Hero Museum is a two-story replica of the Hall of Justice featured in

the “Super Friends” Saturday morning cartoon series and home to thelargest collections of comic books and superhero memorabilia in the world.

“It was never really supposed to be agarage,” Stewart says. “I just added thegarage to the museum in order to appease mywife.”

Stewart built the museum seven years agoafter tearing down an existing structure, whichhoused his real estate firm, in order to makeway for the monolith. Stewart says he ap-proached a number of contractors about thebuilding, but only B&E Contracting inMishawaka seemed to understand what hewas trying to do and wanted to be a part of it.

Of course, a structure as unique as thisrequired special considerations, and when heapplied to the county for a variance, a mail-ing went out to the neighbors who might ob-ject to the architectural anomaly, but thank-fully, no one took issue with the proposedbuilding.

“I don’t live in a strictly residential areaand I think that helped,” Stewart says. “Ofcourse, those who know me are not at all

The Hall of HeroesSuper Hero Museum58005 CR 105, Elkhart574.522.1187Hours vary, call beforevisiting or checkFacebook page formore informationCost is $3 for children,$5 for adults

surprised that I would build something like this, but I am sure thatthose who don’t simply think that I am nuts.”

The inside of the building is as impressive as its exterior. The arti-facts housed in the 2,500-square foot space include over 50,000comic books from the 1940s to the present and over 100 pieces oforiginal comic book animation art. There are also a number of auto-graphed items, action figures, toys and even a few props from relatedmovies and television series including “Batman and Robin,”“Ironman,” “The Greatest American Hero” and “Smallville.”

“We even have a replicated Batcave from the 1960s television se-ries starring Adam West complete with original costume, Batphoneand Batpole,” Stewart says. “Unfortunately, we can’t let visitors slidedown the Batpole for insurance reasons.”

Stewart says that several thousand people visit the museumthroughout the year, and as word of its existence spread, it has at-tracted the attention of shows such as “Personal FX,” “RoadsideAmerica” and “Stan Lee’s Super Fans” Web series hosted byAdrianne Curry.

“We’re getting to the point where we have almost outgrown ourspace here, and when that happens, we will plan fundraisers to ex-pand this building and keep the love of comic books and super-heroes alive for generations to come,” Stewart says. ■

it’sa bird.

it’s a plane…

it’s a museum?

20 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 21

pro

WHAT CLASSIFIES AN ITEM AS AN ANTIQUE?Years ago the rule was that an item has to be 20-years-old or older, butthat’s changed. Some antique shops won’t accept anything unless it’sfrom the 1950s or older. But I don’t follow that rule. I take anything. Nowit seems the definition of what is an antique is up to the individual.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER TYPES OF ANTIQUES?In my store it’s mostly “littles” — anything small that you can pick upand admire. It might be knickknacks, creamers, salt and pepper shak-ers or old kitchen utensils. Everyone has their own thing that they collect. For whatever reason, these littles have been very popular in recent years while the bigger items like furniture aren’t as sought afteranymore.

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS ON THE BEST WAY TO PURSUE A PARTICULAR TYPE OF ANTIQUE?

Books are a great resource for any collector or anyone looking for aparticular piece. There are a lot of different books on a lot of differentcollections from antique dishes to toys. Searching online is good, too.While online research can help you find hard-to-find items, it can alsogive you an unrealistic expectation of what a local dealer is willing topay for an item. And of course, a day spent antiquing at local shops isalways a lot of fun.

CAN ANTIQUES ENHANCE ANY INTERIOR DÉCOR,EVEN CONTEMPORARY STYLES?

Absolutely. If you like a piece, you can generally find a use for it some-where in your house, no matter what the décor. A lot of people like putting those antique wood wash-boards in their laundry room, for example. Some like to take antique furniture pieces and convert theminto something else, like an entertainment armoire or liquor cabinet. Orthey use items like antique washing machines and plows as decorativeelements outdoors.

HAS OVERALL INTEREST IN ANTIQUES DIMINISHED OVER THE YEARS?It’s a generational thing. The 30- and 35-year-olds, they’re not into it,but now I see the younger generation getting into it. They’ll come inwith their grandparents or their mom and dad. So while interest in particular types of pieces varies over the years, the appreciation for antiques seems to be carrying on.

antiques —timeless treasures

ask

the

by shelley swift, house & home feature writer

Keith Thomas can relate to the hundreds of customers who browse theirway through his store, Old Creamery Antiques, in Middlebury. He loves antiques just as much, if not more, than they do.

Thomas grew up in a house full of the timeless treasures from antique furniture pieces to decades-old knickknacks. He turned that appreciation forthe old into a career and has spent the past 30 years selling antiques.Seven years ago he opened Old Creamery Antiques. “I enjoy going intowork every day. This is what I want to be doing well into my retirement,” saidThomas, who shares some insight into the antiques market below:

RESOURCE:

Old Creamery Antiques333 N. Main St., Middlebury, IN574.358.0188

0665 N. State Rd. 5, Shipshewana, IN 46565www.idealcoatings-inc.com

Dean Yoder(574) [email protected]

Merle Miller(574) 457-6111

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22 | michiana house & home | december 2013 |

teresa nicodemus, house & home feature writer

Every artist has a particular style, whether they are a “Painter of Light”like Thomas Kinkade or a modernist like Georgia O’Keeffe.

That same unique artisanship exists in those artists who craft finepieces of furniture from the trunks of trees. Every solid wood furniture

craftsman has his or her artistic flair. With an eye for good quality furniture, a love of wood and creative spirit, local furniture manufacturers share the following insights into their craft.

FURNITURE ARTISANSFor Menno Petershein of Dutchman Log Furniture in Shipshewana, whatmakes the furniture he sells distinctive is the special care Ray and SarahMiller and their son-in-law, James Miller, take to maintain the natural woodlook of all the log furniture they create. The family furniture manufacturingbusiness has succeeded in offering “original wood furniture that basicallylooks exactly like the tree when it is cut down,” comments Petershein. “Aspecial feature of some of our tables is the tree stump base. All of our furni-ture has the original appearance of the wood after the bark is taken off.Each piece is original work. Aspen, which is a worm wood, leaves intricatemarkings on the furniture pieces. Some customers will ask us how wemade the design on the wood. I tell them it’s all natural.”

When it comes to artistic methods of refinishing solid wood furniture,Hoosier Heirlooms in Shipshewana uses unusual refinishing processes toachieve the popular distressed look. “Some shops don’t do glazing, but weuse this type of finishing to obtain an old world look to furniture,” comments

Gaylord Yoder, owner of Hoosier Heirlooms. “We will paint the piece firstwith a white paint and use a brown glaze on top of that. We’ll lightly towel itoff, but leave much of the glaze in the cracks to give an aged look to thewood. Sometimes we will strategically pound the wood with a stone the sizeof a hand or even a hammer to create different dent sizes to add to the dis-tressed look.”

Hoosier Heirlooms also applies a crackle-look finish to furniture at therequest of some customers. The finishing process includes sanding off theold finish and applying a solvent to the furniture. The third step is applyinga spray-on finish on top of the solvent. The solvent causes the finish to sep-arate and crinkle. “This is another unique way to obtain a distressed look infurniture,” states Yoder.

ANTIQUE RESTORATIONAntique or heirloom furniture pieces need special care when refinishing,and not all pieces should be refinished, according to Junior Schlabach,owner of Legacy Home Furniture in Middlebury.

“Popular antiques that our customers often want refinished are diningtables and chairs, which are heirloom pieces they wish to pass on to thenext generation. However, sometimes stripping, sanding and refinishingprocedures can weaken an antique piece. Antique chairs, specifically, canbe at risk. And sometimes it can cost more to refinish an ornate chair,which has a lot of scrolling and intricate detail, than the chair is worth.”

Sturdy antiques, including hutches, can often be successfully refin-ished. Many antiques are made with quarter-sawn oak in which the logs areflipped at a quarter angle and cut in the center. Furniture made from thecenter or prime cut of wood — where the grain is tighter — signals a moreexpensive antique.

photo courtesy of Legacy Home Furniture, Middlebury, IN

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Page 23: Complimentary michiana THE ...€¦ · Handcrafted Log Furniture | Heirloom Quality Custom Furniture Available Beautify your home or lodge with the rustic look of log furniture. 260-768-4140

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 23

Keith Thomas, owner of Old Creamery Antiques in Middlebury, explains thatrestoring an antique can sometimes devalue the piece. “A decision to restore anantique comes down to the condition of the piece. If it’s in fairly good shape withno repairs required, I recommend not refinishing it. An antique can often lose itsvalue if it is stripped and redone.”

When does a piece of furniture classify as an antique? Thomas states thereare now so many antiques and collectibles available on the market today that apiece of furniture can sometimes be classified as an antique after 20 years.“Typically, though, furniture is slated as an antique if the pieces are over 50 yearsold,” comments Thomas.

Whether antique, refurbished or brand new, solid wood furniture adds a richwarmth to your décor. Every furniture artisan’s unique brand of furniture buildingand refinishing brings an irreplaceable work of craftsmanship into your home. ■

RESOURCES:

Dutchman Log Furniture7275 W 200 N Shipshewana, IN 260.768.4140 www.dutchmanlogfurniture.com

Hoosier Heirlooms 4665 N 450 W Shipshewana, IN 260.562.2220

Legacy Home Furniture 108 S. Main St. Middlebury, IN 574.825.1902

Old Creamery Antiques 333 N. Main St. Middlebury, IN 574.358.0188

photos courtesy of Hoosier Heirlooms,Shipshewana, IN

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year-round gardening

Flowers have their seasons. We think daffodils and tulips in spring, then mums in the fall. And we can’t help but desire a striking

poinsettia bouquet in the winter when the holidays arrive. Perhaps to chase away the frosty weather, we bring a sun-loving,

tropical flower into our homes that is native to Mexico, yet sits regally and fits beautifully into our wintery holiday décor.

HYBRIDS AND MORE“In Mexico,” says Carla Forgey ofMatzke Florist in Elkhart, “poinsettiascan grow to be taller than a house.”Their brilliant red color, according toForgey, comes not from the flower it-self but the bracts that surround thepoinsettia flower, which looks likeseed pods in the center of thebracts. Poinsettia hybrids cancome in an array of colors frompink, white and yellow to speckled varieties withcombinations like red and pink; white and red; etc.

“The type of poinsettia determines the color and bract shape,” ex-plains Jewel Wise, assistantmanager of Clayton GardenCenter in North Webster. “Therehaven’t been any specific vari-eties that have been developedthis year, but improvements onolder varieties have beenmade, such as the deep bur-gundy-colored bracts on somepoinsettias. Poinsettias todaycan also have a lovely mar-bled appearance with a mix ofcolors.”

care guidelines for poinsettias

PASSION FOR POINSETTIASTo keep poinsettias healthy through the holidays and beyond, Wise offers afew tips for poinsettia longevity: “The key is to keep the plants at a propertemperature. Poinsettias prefer a room temperature of 60 to 65 degrees.Remember to keep them away from any draft, whether heat vents or win-dows or doors. Anything that creates air movement should be kept awayfrom the plant.” The poinsettia should be watered when the top layer of soilfeels dry; the plant should never be kept in standing water, which promotesroot rot. The poinsettia’s bracts are sensitive to bruising so be sure to placethe plant in a protected area.

“Place it, for example, in the center of a table rather than the edge ofa counter where it could be bumped,” adds Wise.

Also, never water the poinsettia over the top of the plant; water the soilat the roots. Keep in mind, poinsettias can be poisonous to dogs, cats andother animals who may try to eat the plant.

If your passion for poinsettias goes beyond the holidays, consider thatthe poinsettia plant has a very particular regimen of care to maintain it year-round. To enhance the potential for poinsettia blooms next year during theholidays, the plant needs a strict schedule of at least 13 hours of darknessand 11 hours of sunlight at least 5 months prior to the holidays to promoteflowering. Many people choose not to maintain the plant year-round andpurchase new poinsettias each holiday because of this complicatedprocess. ■

RESOURCES:

Clayton Garden Center 7185 N. SR 13North Webster, IN 574.834.2249

keep the holidaysblooming

Matzke Florist 501 S. Main St.Elkhart, IN 574.293.5657 www.matzkeflorist.com

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| michiana house & home | december 2013 | 25

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by julie young, house & home feature writer

It is, hands down, themost ambitious home renova-tion I have ever embarked on. The property is acharming fixer upper that has been in my familyfor more than three decades, but in the past 16years or so, has fallen into a state of disrepairdue to abandonment and neglect.

There is no electricity and no runningwater. The windows are long gone, the roofdeck is missing and the only hint of the struc-ture’s former glory lies in the faded yellow paperstill clinging to the walls in a variety of patternslike some kind of tribute to bad taste.

As I survey each room, I can’t help thinkingabout the family who called this place home

once upon a time. They were a lovely, lively group who made many memories in the three-bed-room mansion, and I have no doubt that there would have been many more had they not beenunceremoniously evicted when the owner of the property did the unthinkable: She grew up.

No question about it. Restoring the dollhouse my father built for me is a unique undertak-ing. As I strip the old wallpaper from the gutted structure and clean the furnishings I collectedover several Christmases and birthdays, I am flooded with memories of this labor of love that myfather spent two years of his life constructing.

This was no ordinary dollhouse. This was a massive structure that featured ¾-inch plywood,removable roof panels and individual shingles made from old slattedcloset door material that my father seemed to have in limitless supply.It was a far cry from the cute, decorative (read: flimsy) models I wasused to seeing in Frank’s Nursery and Crafts. My father was deter-mined to make his strong enough to withstand the energy of an acci-dent-prone 9-year-old. He succeeded, and when I retrieved the housefrom the garage loft after my mother passed, I was thrilled to see thatmy father’s work, for the most part, had stood the test of time.

There are certainly things that need to be done and challenges tobe met over the course of the endeavor to freshen the house. I haveno doubt that most of those challenges will shorten my life and causemore of my hair to turn gray, but I’m willing to take those on one roomat a time. I’ve discovered that the windows and doors are not a stan-dard size, making replacement parts difficult to find. There is the for-mal dining room that is all-but-impossible to reach, and I can’t helpwondering how I will finish out that space without calling in the talentsof a reputable, flea-sized paper hanging company, but I remain hope-fully optimistic.

Because I know that in my quiet moments, when my mind is still, the an-swers will come. Perhaps out of my own ingenuity, or perhaps it is dad offering me the solution inan effort to contribute something to this posthumous father-daughter project that will be enjoyedby generations of our family to come. ■

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