Charleston Home + Design

Hidden Innovation

A Montagu Street home proves to be the perfect example of elegantly blending modern technology and antebellum charm.  

 A television doesn’t mix with brickwork from 1849, and cat-5 wiring doesn’t complement a Tim Hussey original work of art. Furthermore, speakers and plaster are not two peas in a pod. How does a homeowner of an historic abode incorporate modern conveniences, like security systems and surround sound, into a house without compromising that old-world feel? The secret lies in hiding—hiding the wires, hiding the cable boxes, hiding the equipment. If items cannot be fully hidden, then subtlety is the key. 

 When City Councilman Michael Seekings and his wife, Michele, purchased their Montagu Street
home (within Michael’s District-8 territory), the couple knew the space needed some updating. Previous owners made many valuable upgrades to the property, but the Seekingses wanted to make sure the space fit their day-to-day needs, which included a technology package. “When we moved in,” Michael remembers, “it was a house that had great potential, but it needed some modernizing. The objectives were to keep it historic and make it livable.” The beginning steps of achieving this goal began nearly five years ago when Michael partnered with David Smith of tech company AV Lifestyles. The duo set out to bring the home up-to-speed with technology trends and keep it current over time.

David explains, “We strove to centralize as much as possible. In an older home, there are not many places to hide technology, so we had to choose one or two strategic closets to conceal the majority of the wiring and the audio-video equipment. Once we figured that out, we were able to mount TVs on walls without seeing cable boxes, DVD players, or cords. We wanted the technology to be as unseen as possible because we didn’t want to take away from the beauty of the home itself.” Michael adds, “The concept was to integrate technology that was absent to the eye.” Other than hiding the boxes and wires, David and his team installed a few other hidden elements: invisible speakers in the living room, light and window-treatment switch plates faux painted to match the walls, and televisions recessed behind paintings. 

Because David understood not only the Seekingses’ need for invisible technology, but also the couple’s hectic schedule, he chose to run all of the homes elements—the security system, the lights, the televisions, and the audio—through a Control4 system, which allows Michael and Michele to control their home on the go via their smartphones. And, as technology changes (as it seems to do daily), David is able to continually update the couple’s house with the latest conveniences. Michael notes, “We’ve come a long way on this whole project. Our home is livable, but it wouldn’t be if we didn’t have the technology. It’s been a terrific project, and I know there’s more to come.” In fact, David and Michael are already making plans to swap out a television in the kitchen for a new, slightly larger smart model.  

 

For more information, call AV Lifestyles at  (843) 277-0059 or visit myavlife.com. 

 

Architectural Dream: One family brings contemporary style to a Kiawah Island vacation home.

Rarely do homes in the Lowcountry exude modernism; it’s a style most commonly reserved for swanky New York City apartments overlooking Central Park. However, when two homeowners chose to carve out their own piece of Kiawah paradise, they wanted to bring with them their penchant for the contemporary. To do this, they partnered with architect Bill Huey of Bill Huey and Associates. 

Bill’s goal and plan was clear, and it involved creating balance. In order to incorporate the modern panache of the homeowners and still please the vision of Kiawah’s Architectural Review Board, Bill established equilibrium between contemporary and coastal. He describes, “This house was a little bit of a challenge for us; it’s atypical for our Kiawah clients. The homeowners wanted this house to have a contemporary edge to it, yet still fit into the Kiawah ambiance. Because of that, what we have in this house are cleaner lines and more modern materials. For example, the entire first floor is tile instead of the default hardwood.” Other modern features include neutral colors, minimalist Siematic cabinetry in the kitchen, a linear fireplace, metallic accents, and absolutely no clutter. 

Order and cleanliness are of utmost importance in modern design. For example, you won’t see things like knickknacks or exposed bookshelves in a minimalistic space. Bill achieved this clutter-free look by designing an overabundance of closet space into the layout. “Now that we use spray- foam insulation in homes, the eaves and attics become ideal for conditioned storage spaces. We used every inch we could. There’s quite a bit of storage in this house that isn’t really seen,” Bill reveals. Furthermore, he placed hidden nooks and crannies throughout to hold everyday items (like a sliding granite piece that hides the spice rack behind the stove and a behind-the-wall cabinet that conceals the television remotes). 

 

 

 What sets this Kiawah home apart from those New York apartments, though, is its warmth. The space is far from institutional or cold. It’s livable because of Bill’s incorporation of curves and natural-wood textures in strategic areas. “The house has a level of detail that is inviting. A modern design can be very hard and angular, but we introduced curvilinear elements and accessories that soften the look. The curvilinear theme is evident in the exterior, foyer, and ceiling over the dining table,” explains Bill. To separate the kitchen and dining areas from the living area, Bill created a ceiling element in a rich wood tone that acts as a subtle, curved divider in the modern room. Traditional light fixtures—like the chandelier adorning the arched foyer—also help to bring warmth to the space. 

 

Eventually, this house will become the owners’ permanent dwelling, and it was designed to function as a full-time residence, not merely a vacation home. Until that time, though, the owners will enjoy their contemporary-coastal spot near Kiawah’s peaceful beaches each summer (and every other possible opportunity for a quick getaway). 

 
For more information,call Bill Huey and Associates at (843) 805-6700 or visit hueyarchitect.com.

Get Relaxed: Why You Should Consider Getting a Hot Tub.

    With chilly weather approaching the Lowcountry, there are few things more relaxing than soaking in a warm spa after a long, stressful day. The natural buoyancy of floating in water releases pressure on your entire body, not just your joints. Warm water increases blood flow, which in turn loosens tight muscles. The reasons to treat yourself to a spa in your daily routine aren’t just recreational, they’re also medically, mentally, and emotionally beneficial.

    I have certainly considered adding a hot tub to my daily regimen on countless occasions. Who wouldn’t? Just imagine being able to come home and immediately step into serenity without having to wait for a bath to be drawn or trying to balance the perfect temperature. After enduring a long day at work, a lengthy commute, a tough workout, and a hectic schedule, nothing sounds better than having a stress relieving method that I can always count on. Add in the hydrotherapy jets that many models come with and I might just live there permanently.

     Of course, not all spas are created equal. I would need to find the right spa for my lifestyle and I’m not the only one. Hot Spring hot tubs have built-in advanced efficiency to keep energy bills low, while the Highlife Collection of spas feature a comprehensive EnergySmart system that maintains precise water temperatures in order to use the least amount of energy possible. Many hot tubs come with control functions to make operating the spa convenient—I could have it on and ready before I even step outside! Surrounding the spa with marine-grade speakers can add an even higher level of relaxation, plus be controlled with Bluetooth technology. Aesthetic additions include water features—such as illuminated arcs of water—or customizable lighting systems to suit every time of day and mood.

 Now all that’s left is to pick the perfect spa!

    Atkinson Pools and Spas is an authorized local dealer for Hot Spring Spas in the Lowcountry. Deciding  which hot tub will accomplish all of your relaxation goals is a fun experience. I recommend a trip to the showroom to see how Hot Spring Spas can deliver exactly what you’re looking for. Stop by to enjoy a free test soak, receive a backyard consultation, or simply browse the showroom to see all of their various spas models and accessories. 

For more information or any questions you can visit Atkinson Pools and Spa located at 1113 Bowman Road, or call them at 843-881-3068. You can also email Lillian at [email protected] or visit  atkinsonpools.com.

 

Posted by Heather Epps, Social Media Director, Charleston Home + Design

 

Eighth Annual Daniel Island Harvest Tour of Homes

The eighth annual Daniel Island Harvest Tour of Homes sponsored by The Friends of the Daniel Island Library will be held on Saturday, October 24 from 1 to 4 pm. The 2015 tour features 4 unique homes, including two on the Park Side and two on the South Side of the Island. This year's tour offers an ample variety of styles with different design characteristics in each home. 

 

 

One home includes a three story grand staircase and a master suite that runs the length of the home. This Lowcountry home also boasts a retro-styled theatre room as well as multiple kitchens.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, a Park home has an infinity pool overlooking the marsh and includes a “secret library,” along with a large collection of antiques and relics from both Europe and the U.S.

 

 

 

Also included in the tour is a beautiful family home in Smythe Park decorated with complementary colors of nature, open spaces, large windows, and porch views of the Wando River views.

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, a spacious town home with a rooftop porch that's decorated and furnished using local Lowcountry artists and suppliers rounds off the tour.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 The Friends of Berkley County Library System is an incorporated non-profit organization of volunteers that promote, enhance, and support the BCLS.

The Daniel Island Friends of the Library, a branch of the Berkeley County System,  fund:

• Computers for Adults and Children 
• Book Kits for Book Clubs
• A Reading Garden
• Material and equipment for the Daniel Island Library

Tickets for the Daniel Island Harvest Tour of Homes are $20 and will be available after September 15 at Island Expression on Daniel Island, Egan Spirits on Daniel Island, Zinnia at Belle Hall, or by mail to 121 Iron Bottom Lane, Daniel Island 29492. 

Daniel Island businesses are also actively involved and provide sponsorships which allow all tour profits to go directly to the Daniel Island Library.

 

 

 

 For more information on this great event, please visit harvesthometours.com

 

 

 

Tips from Miller Gaffney: How to Care, Repair, and Live with Art and Furniture

 

 

I met up with Miller Gaffney at Park Cafe on Rutledge Ave for a glass of rosé and some “art” talk. Miller, a South Carolina native, is an expert in collecting art and antiques for investment purposes. She has appeared on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow and Market Warriors and will be starring in Ovation's Art Breakers this fall. Miller offered a few essential tips for how to care, repair, and live with art and furniture after you buy it.

Miller reminds us there are a few things to consider when bringing home your treasure since art does not always come with instructions for how to take care of it.  A common mistake Miller warns against
is placing art too close to direct sunlight as fading will likely be a result. Some collectors prefer  UV reducing glass and plastics, but best practice is to avoid large amounts of sunlight near your art altogether. Miller reflects on several scenarios where children or pets have accidentally damaged a piece of art or furniture leading to a decline in overall value. It is vital to keep your art out of harms way by displaying it away from small fingers or sharp claws. Routinely checking the temperature of the room where your art will be displayed is also extremely important. Rooms that are too hot or humid can damage art over time. Changes in temperature may cause flaking and cracking in the paint called craquleure. Abstain from storing your painting or art next to a hot light or fireplace as this may cause paint and materials to become soft or brittle. Never use household cleaners or similar liquids to clean paintings. If your art needs to be cleaned, make sure to hire an art conservator for the job. 

 For more tips from Miller, look for her new book, The Essentials -Passions Collecting Art & Antiques this Fall. Her book promises to demystify collecting and offer a practical art guide for  everyone from beginners to connoisseurs. 

 Miller Gaffney will be at our Charleston Home + Design Show: Fall Edition to share her vast knowledge of the world of art collecting. So whether you're thinking of starting a collection, investing in more art, or need to learn about protecting the art you already have, join us for Miller’s seminar, “Passions: Collecting Art and Antiques” on August 28th from 5:00 −6:30pm. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (843) 577-7652 or visit charlestonhomeanddesignshow.com. Furthermore, Miller will be conducting free appraisals on August 29th and 30th. Bring your treasured piece to the Charleston Area Convention Center either day between 1pm and 5pm to find out the value of your unique antique!

 

Posted by Heather Epps, Social Media Director, Charleston Home + Design

Top 10 Taps for Kitchen and Bath

 

 If you have decided to take on a kitchen makeover or a complete bathroom remodel, a faucet may seem almost unimportant when looking at the big picture. However, it's worth putting the same amount of thought into choosing a tap as it is for that glamorous marble countertop. Why, you may ask? Keep in mind that paying for quality now can save you searching for a plumber in the future.  The product experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery compiled a list of the top 10 taps for the kitchen and bath. 

The list includes faucets that are:

• Eco-friendly: WaterSense and Cal Green compliant

• Trending: showcasing modern and contemporary designs

• High-tech: featuring innovative functionality  

 

 

 

 

Posted by Heather Epps, Social Media Director, Charleston Home + Design

Hurricane Preparedness in the Lowcountry.

The official beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season in the U.S started on June 1st and will continue until November 30th. Although this year is predicted to be a relatively calm season, predictions are not always perfect, and it takes only one storm to cause a disastrous situation. The last major hurricane to hit Charleston was the infamous Hugo on September 22,1989. Hugo ripped through the Lowcountry with 140 mph winds at landfall and a 18 to 20 foot storm surge.  Hugo left nearly 60,000 people homeless after destroying 5,100 homes and leaving more than 12,000 Lowcountry homes uninhabitable. Since 1980, the occurrence of weather related disasters has increased by more than 230 percent.

Local Allstate agency owner Kevin Shealey explains that along the South Carolina coast, insurance can be more complicated than other areas. He recommends that homeowners should review their policies with their agent at least annually to make sure they are properly covered. Flood policies are offered through The National Flood Insurance Program and can be purchased from most local insurance agents.  Furthermore,  in some areas of the Lowcountry, homeowners may need to purchase a separate policy for wind damage.

Kevin has lived in Charleston all of his life and remembers Hurricanes David, Hugo, and Floyd. He knows the devastation and emotions the local community goes through during a catastrophe. Kevin reassures, “My staff and I will be here along with the Allstate Catastrophe team to help put the pieces back together should we have another storm.”

 So how does one prepare for hurricane season? One of the most important things you can do to prepare yourself for a serious property-threatening hazard is to take inventory of what you have in your home. Kevin points out that if you were to close your eyes and name everything you have in your home, you would likely forget some items. When you add in the stress and anxiety you may feel at the time of a loss, chances are, you will not remember as well as you can right now. To help supplement out memories, Allstate has developed an app called the Digital Locker, which can help you with your home inventory. It is free and available to anyone, even if you are not an Allstate customer. Visit Kevin's office at 781 Saint Andrews Blvd, Charleston, SC, 29407 or call (843) 573-4777 for more information about how to get your home and valuables protected. 

Interested in learning more about how to get prepared for the hurricane season? 

The Allstate Foundation and Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service, are bringing their 14-city disaster preparation tour and education campaign to Charleston with a booth at the City of Charleston’s First Day Festival. You can attend this free event where community volunteers and Allstate agency owners will work side-by-side to help hundreds of Charleston residents build free disaster kits they can use to keep safe in the event of a disaster or unforeseen emergency. The free kits include a hand-crank flashlight, first-aid kit, cleaning supplies, and other items proven to keep people safe and prepared. Volunteers will also help educate Charleston residents on the importance of preparedness.

The event will be held at the Charleston Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside St, Charleston, SC 29401. The Allstate booth will be set up during the City of Charleston’s First Day Festival on Sunday, August 16 from 1:00-4:00pm.

 

Miller Gaffney's Favorite Places to Shop in South Carolina

 

I met up with Miller Gaffney at Park Cafe on Rutledge Ave for a glass of rosé and some “art” talk. Miller, a South Carolina native, is an expert in collecting art and antiques for investment purposes. She has appeared on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow and Market Warriors and will be starring in Ovation's Art Breakers this fall. Miller offered a few essential tips for finding and investing in art. Here is a list of Miller's Gaffney's favorite places to shop in South Carolina, and a few tips when searching for art- "on the hunt."

 Miller explains how important it is to check items thoroughly for distinguishing marks that will give you a clue as to where the item came from, how old it is, who made it, and its value. Miller encourages doing some detective work on the object to get a better understanding of its history. For example, inspect the piece for a makers mark when looking at an object. For artwork and photographs, look for a signature and limited edition print. Hallmarks on silver indicate the purity of the silver, and possibly the mark of the manufacturer or silversmith. When looking at furniture, check to see if the item is handmade or factory made. Don’t be afraid to open drawers and look for handcrafted joints, dovetails, as well as any inscriptions or manufacturer’s stamps. Miller recommends using the internet as a resource to find a high and low comparable to help figure out the condition and value of the item. Most importantly, Miller urges anyone collecting or buying art to find out what your passion is and buy what you love. 

 

For more tips from Miller, look for her new book, The Essentials -Passions Collecting Art & Antiques this Fall. Her book promises to demystify collecting and offer a practical art guide for everyone from beginners to connoisseurs.

Miller Gaffney will be at our Charleston Home + Design Show: Fall Edition to share her vast knowledge of the world of art collecting. So whether you're thinking of starting a collection, investing in more art, or need to learn about protecting the art you already have, join us for Miller’s seminar, “Passions: Collecting Art and Antiques” on August 28th from 5:00 −6:30pm. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (843) 577-7652 or visit charlestonhomeanddesignshow.com. Furthermore, Miller will be conducting free appraisals on August 29th and 30th. Bring your treasured piece to the Charleston Area Convention Center either day between 1pm and 5pm to find out the value of your unique antique!

 

 

 

 

 

Posted by Heather Epps, Social Media Director, Charleston Home + Design

 

Tips from Miller Gaffney: How to Start Building the Art Collection of Your Dreams

So you’re finally ready to start building the art collection of your dreams. If you’re someone like me, a total novice to buying art and antiques, you may feel a little overwhelmed and intimidated about your first few purchases. It’s not always as easy as walking into a gallery and taking home the first piece of art in which you fall in love with. Most importantly, you don't want to get cheated or feel that you’ve made a bad investment. With the right amount of research, knowledge, and a little confidence, you will find that buying art can be a very special and rewarding experience.

I met up with Miller Gaffney at Park Cafe on Rutledge Ave for a glass of rosé and some “art” talk. Miller, a South Carolina native, is an expert in collecting art and antiques for investment purposes. She has appeared on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow and Market Warriors and will be starring in Ovation's Art Breakers this fall. Miller offered a few essential tips for finding and investing in art.

Miller explains that you first need to educate yourself and form your taste. Try going to museums and galleries and train your eye to see the difference between good and indifferent quality. Next, have a focus or a theme. 

• Are you interested in contemporary art? 
• Maybe you have a particular interest in photography?
• Pinpoint your tastes and identify your preferences. 

Miller recommends buying the best pieces available from the artists you prefer, as they will likely increase in value and make your collection more valuable over time. Always choose quality over quantity. It’s important to work with reputable and knowledgeable advisors who can help you make decisions about pieces. Their insight and experience can prove invaluable when navigating what to buy and what price to pay. Finally, have goals and know your motivation before you buy. Do you want to build an informal creative collection, an investment collection, a legacy collection, or a collection for pure enjoyment.

For more tips from Miller, look for her new book, The Essentials -Passions Collecting Art & Antiques this Fall. Her book promises to demystify collecting and offer a practical art guide for  everyone from beginners to connoisseurs. 

Miller Gaffney will be at our Charleston Home + Design Show: Fall Edition to share her vast knowledge of the world of art collecting. So whether you're thinking of starting a collection, investing in more art, or need to learn about protecting the art you already have, join us for Miller’s seminar, “Passions: Collecting Art and Antiques” on August 28th. Furthermore, Miller will be conducting free appraisals on August 29th and 30th. Bring your treasured piece to the Charleston Area Convention Center either day between 1pm and 5pm to find out the value of your unique antique!

For more information about the Charleston Home + Design Show or to buy tickets for Miller’s seminar visit charlestonhomeanddesignshow.com.

 

Posted by Heather Epps, Social Media Director, Charleston Home + Design.

 

New in the Lowcountry: Designer Tile by New Ravenna Mosaics

Esteemed lowcountry tile provider Palmetto Tile Distributors has recently partnered with New Ravenna Mosaics, designers and manufacturers of upscale handcrafted stone and glass mosaic tiles. The Palmetto Tile team joined with New Ravenna and hosted a celebratory launch luncheon for local interior designers, highlighting the new line at the prestigious Harborside East venue in Mount Pleasant. After pursuing concept boards and mingling with fellow designers and tile experts, guests enjoyed a delicious lunch catered by Charleston favorite Caviar and Bananas while taking in presentations by New Ravenna’s president & CEO, Wes LaBlanc, and regional sales representative, Meredith Lewis. A breathtaking waterfront view, delectable eats and an exciting new line of design savvy custom mosaic tile made for a satisfying afternoon, the luncheon’s attendees leaving heads full of ideas and inspirations. 

 

Interested in making some spring and summer home upgrades? Stop by the Palmetto Tile showroom at 4639 Rivers Avenue in North Charleston or the John's Island location at 3714-P Betsy Kerrison Parkway. With an impressive selection of materials, finishes, designers and manufacturers there is something to suit everyone's personal style and design choices.

For more information, call Palmetto Tile Distributors in North Charleston at (843) 266-8700 or John's Island at (843) 768-3111, or visit www.palmettotile.com.

 

Posted by Meredith Poston, Social Media Director, Charleston Home + Design.