atlanta home improvement 1114

MPROVEMENTMM

WWW.ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM®

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WWW.ATLANTAHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM®atlanta home

This month’s cover projectis presented by: Myers Carpet

To see more turn to pages 52 - 53

A Matter of Style & TasteDecorating With The Man In Mind p. 45

All Things Man Cave: Projects, Productsand Furniture p. 22

The Dude Downstairs

(404) 352-8141www.myerscarpetatlanta.comSPECIALIZING IN CUSTOM FLOORING AND INSTALLATIONS.

MyersC A R P E T

Geared Up GaragesThe Evolutionof The ParkingSpot p. 36

1114_cover-001.indd 1 10/21/14 12:06 PM

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1114_003-005_masthead.indd 3 10/17/14 1:30 PM

Ask about SHOWERGUARD Glass with LIFETIME WARRANTY against Corrosion

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Photo courtesy of Home ReBuilders

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A Better Way to Enjoy Outdoor Living

4 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

1114_003-005_masthead.indd 4 10/15/14 4:27 PM

PRESIDENT/FOUNDERSherri Adair

PUBLISHERPatti Stephens

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERJennifer Prins

EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORJayne Hallock

[email protected]

COPY EDITORTaylor Arnold

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT MARKETINGDavid Leonard

ART DIRECTORDona Halliday

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVESShannon Hunter

Sandi Edelson

SALES ASSISTANT/OFFICE MANAGERGregg Holloway

SOCIAL MEDIALizzy Stroud

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

MPROVEMENT®

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

atlanta home

678.995.3007

www.northhighlandpaint.com [email protected]

let usPAINTyourhouseScan for tips & tricks for painting an accent wall

Get yourhouse painted

in time forthe Holidays.

Call forspecials.

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

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

80 West Wieuca Road, Suite 115Atlanta, GA 30342

(404) 303-9333 x27 FAX (404) [email protected]

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

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

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

recyclable materials used in the printing process.

Follow us on

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 5

1114_003-005_masthead.indd 5 10/17/14 1:32 PM

36 features36 Geared Up Garages

The Evolution of The Parking Spot

45 A Matter of Style and Taste How to Decorate with the Man in Mind

New! Cover Project Pro�le: 52 Totally Floored

Presented by Myers Carpet

ON THE COVER: This Buckhead living room has a secret. The elegant patterned rug is not just beautiful...it’s hardy! Interior designer Craig Duncan chose this Curacao by Couristan style from Myers Carpet because this is a high traf�c room and the �atweave “...wears extremely well.” Turn to pages 52 and 53 to see more of this home’s �ooring options. This month’s cover photo is sponsored and provided by Myers Carpet, (404) 352-8141, MyersCarpetAtlanta.com. Photography by Gregg Willett Photography.

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Photos courtesy of (left to right) Atlanta Design & Build; Janice Dietz, The Consulting House, Inc., photography by Josh Vick and MOSAIC Group [Architects and Remodelers

All Things Man Cave: Projects, Products and FurnitureThe Dude Downstairs


1114_006-009_TOC.indd 6 10/21/14 10:28 AM

© 2014 Georgia Power. All rights reserved. Certain restrictions apply. Must be a Georgia Power customer. Valid through December 2014. Rebate eligibility varies based on improvements made and energy reduction achieved. Rebate request must be submitted with receipt within 60 days of purchase or installation of qualifying improvements. Full details available online.

Do you know how much energy your home is wasting?The average home has enough air leaks to create an opening over 3 feet wide. So schedule a Whole House Energy Assessment, performed by a certified BPI contractor, to find out where your home is losing energy. Complete a BPI assessment and you’ll get up to a $200 rebate. And if you make the recommended energy improvements, you could get up to $2,000 in rebates. Learn more at georgiapower.com/wholehouse or call 1-800-310-5607.

Small energy leaks can really add up.

1114_006-009_TOC.indd 7 10/15/14 3:38 PM

in every issue 10 Editor’s Letter

15 Home Front Top Trends, Advice and Events

18 Editor’s Picks Neat, New Lifestyle Products for Your Home— The Guy Collection

54 Garden Planner Your Outdoor To-Do List for November

56 Notes from Bob & RodMan Knowledge is Power—and Money

59 CAHP Talk Combustion Air? Who Needs It?

61 Resource Finder Find Help with your Home Improvement Projects

66 Editorial Resources Contacts for this Issue’s Resources

contents

Visit our Web site at➚ www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

Smart home improvement starts here.

54

18

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What A Maneditor’sletter

I could just as easily have headlined this letter “What’s A Man?” Because talking about what

men prefer in design or décor

is like trying to boil the

ocean. Can’t be done. Too big.

The category of “masculine

design” is so broad, so

diverse, with so many

subcategories within it that’s it is hard to truly pinpoint

what men like in décor.

Okay, in a town like Atlanta it could be tempting to split

the difference into two categories: OTP Men and ITP Men.

Painting with this very broad brush, you could hypothesize

that the suburban man likes his pool tables and leather

armchairs and cigar bars. Whereas Mr. Buckhead or

Midtown prefers sleek metallics, clean lines, bold colors and

daring artwork.

But we know things never shake out that precisely. Every

Atlanta man (heck every Atlanta family!) has tastes

that run the spectrum from cool contemporary to uber-

traditional. But then you �nd that slick downtown condo

that manages to incorporate the homeowner’s family

traditions and heirloom antiques. Likewise, a Kennesaw

man might prefer a bright, modern, “funky” man cave like

the one pictured on p. 45.

So we threw our editorial arms wide this month and

endeavored to cover as many neighborhoods, ages and

styles as we could. Our Man Space story is �ttingly at the

heart of this issue on page 22. But on page 45, we also show

you ways to bring some of those masculine touches to other

rooms in your home. Finally, on page 36 we cover the most

traditionally man-centric rooms in the house, the garage.

We hope the men of Atlanta, and the women who love

them, have as much fun reading this issue as we did

putting it together.

Boys Rule,

Jayne Hallock Editor & Social Media Director

Enter Into the Shower You’ve Always Imagined!

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Charles G. Crisp, President and Bella Lizasuain, General Manager


4 Things You’ll Learn This Month

1

Coming in December

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Ever dreamed of a new kitchen? How about a

sparkling, spacious new

bath? Our December issue is as devoted

to new kitchens and baths as you are! Get

ready for our annual, and extremely helpful, kitchen and bath planner. This year we’ve added articles about the realities of renovations (exactly how many weeks will my home be covered

in tarps?) and more budget breakdowns than ever

before. We’re especially happy with it and bet you

will be as well!

Where in Atlanta can I buy a vintage record player? p. 18

How forced-air refrigeration keeps beer in this kegerator cold p. 27

What the heck’s a Monkey Bar? p. 43

Do men prefer chairs or sofas? p. 46

1114_010-013_ED LETT.indd 11 10/17/14 1:47 PM

375 Buford Drive • Lawrenceville • 770-982-28083293 Stone Mountain Hwy • Snellville • 770-972-2808

901 N. Broad Street • Monroe • 770-266-2808www.britts.com

Receive up to a

$1,000 MasterCard® prepaid cardby mail with purchase of select KitchenAid Brand Appliances

Invitation to Savings

Mail-In Rebate. Offer valid July 1, 2014 to November 30, 2014

We Build Dream Closets

closets | pantries | media centers | home offices | wall beds | garages | garage floor coatings

• www.SpaceMakersclosets.com11415 Old Roswell Rd, Suite 300, Alpharetta, GA 30009

O OU D S CO SU T T O C O C C

Mention this ad and receive a .accessory package

valued up to $250FREE

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375 Buford Drive • Lawrenceville • 770-982-28083293 Stone Mountain Hwy • Snellville • 770-972-2808

901 N. Broad Street • Monroe • 770-266-2808www.britts.com

Receive up to a

$1,000 MasterCard® prepaid cardby mail with purchase of select KitchenAid Brand Appliances

Invitation to Savings

Mail-In Rebate. Offer valid July 1, 2014 to November 30, 2014

Visit our Showroom at 2031 Baker Court NW Kennesaw, GA 30144

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CALL TODAY! 770-999-0532to learn more about our available options

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404.377.3350

DESIGN-BUILD KITCHENS ADDITIONSWHOLE HOUSE BATHROOMS

www.artisansofatlanta.com

Providing a Better Renovation Experience

770-422-4009 | www.topsouth.com830 Pickens Industrial Drive, Marietta, GA 30062

Countertop: MombasaGranite-honed finishPhoto courtesy of Dejiacomo Custom Homes and KMpics.com

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1114_014-016_home frts.indd 14 10/16/14 5:05 PM

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

For one day only, the Atlanta Community Tool Bank throws its warehouse

doors wide and hosts a big, bad sale. The annual Tool Rush Sale will happen on November 8 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and

it’s the ToolBank’s signature fundraising event. The general public is invited

to shop thousands of new tools and supplies - all priced 50 percent or more

off retail. Amazing deals and 100 percent of everything you spend directly

and immediately keeps local volunteers equipped to serve across our state.

See Atlanta.Toolbank.Org for more information.

Photo courtesy of Atlanta Community ToolBank, photography by Mickey Desai

Atlanta Tool Rush

Two Feet Square…The size hole you would have

to smash in your home’s wall to

compare to the amount of air that leaks out every day, in the average home. (Eek. Check

your leaks!)

Source: Energy.gov

100xThat’s how more likely men are to be affected by colorblindness, as compared to women. Source: Color-Blindness.com

November 6th! Grab A

Whisk!Did you know about National Men Make Dinner Day? Whether you’re a man

who occasionally

cooks or doesn’t

know where

the stove is…

it’s your turn to

cook! Source:

MenMake

DinnerDay.

com


1114_014-016_home frts.indd 15 10/17/14 2:38 PM

homefront

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

Got watermarks on your wood furniture?Fix them before the holidays hit. Simply dab white toothpaste (not

gel!) on the watermark and rub lightly. Voila!

Stains disappear. Source: LifeHacker.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS MONTH Saturday, November 1Fall Pruning Class10 a.m.-noonAtlantaBotanicalGarden.org

Saturday, November 1Basket Weaving Class: Antique Spool Basket9 a.m. – 1 p.m.CallawayGardens.com

Saturday – Sunday, November 1 – 2Chastain Park Arts FestivalSaturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.ChastainParkArtsFestival.com

Saturday, November 8, 2014 Annual Tool Rush Sale 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Early Bird Shopping: 8 a.m.-9 a.m. with $10 donation. Atlanta.Toolbank.Org

Saturday, November 15Boughs and Berries: Making Botanical Holiday Cards Class10 a.m.-3 p.m. AtlantaBotanicalGarden.org

Saturday, November 162nd Annual Moustache Dash 2014 Run/Walk 5K 8 a.m.1 Mile 9 a.m.BestSelfAtlanta.com

Friday, November 21 – Sunday, November 23Callanwolde Holiday Pottery SaleFriday 7 p.m. - Sunday 5 p.m.Callanwolde.org

7455 Trowbridge Road NE • Sandy Springs, Ga. 30328 • 404.255.0640 • www.sewellappliance.com

The KitchenAid brand has a complete line of products designed for cooks—offering virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators and more…

1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. Atlanta, GA

Hours MON/SAT 10am to 5pm

404-355-4151

www.greatvaluefurniture.com

NEW STORE LOCATION1240 OLD

CHATTAHOOCHEE AVE.

ATLANTA,GEORGIA

BEST VALUE IN BETTER FURITURE IS NO LONGER HIDDEN

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

Inventory

Reduction

Specials:

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


1114_014-016_home frts.indd 16 10/21/14 11:51 AM

1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. Atlanta, GA

Hours MON/SAT 10am to 5pm

404-355-4151

www.greatvaluefurniture.com

NEW STORE LOCATION1240 OLD

CHATTAHOOCHEE AVE.

ATLANTA,GEORGIA

BEST VALUE IN BETTER FURITURE IS NO LONGER HIDDEN

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

Inventory

Reduction

Specials:

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

1114_014-016_home frts.indd 17 10/16/14 5:05 PM

1. Comic CrazedGot a comic book �end

in your basement? (p.s.

more and more women

are getting in on the

graphic novel craze.

There’s even a female

Thor now!) No matter

what your gender is,

you’ll love Titan Comics

where you can pick up

old school comics, cutting

edge graphic novels and

collectible �gurines.

TitanGames AndComics.com

2. Music Man We all know one of

these guys. The brother-

in-law who can recite

every lyric from his

favorite Pink Floyd

album. The neighbor

who invests thousands

in his turntable system

because vinyl just sounds

better to him. Help trick

out your music man’s

room at Buckhead’s

FantasyLand record shop.

FantasylandRecords.com

3. Beer Me!Or rather, him. What

guy hasn’t dreamed of

brewing his own beer?

Or making his own wine?

There’s really no better

way to personalize his

hangout area. Head to

Sandy Springs and visit

the folks at Beer

and WIne Craft. There

you can pick up beer

or wine making kits,

bottling supplies and

much more. Visit

BeerAndWineCraft.com

4. A Good SportScoooooorre! Come

baseball, football or

basketball season, that

joyful cry rings out all

over Atlanta. If you have

a sports lover under your

roof, bring him to JT

Sports Collectibles and

More and watch your

man become a kid in this

“candy” store. You’ll �nd

signed baseballs, jerseys

and scores more.

JTSportsAtlanta.com

5. Industrial CoolShabby chic decor doesn’t

exactly scream “man

retreat” to us. You know

what does? Vintage gas

station signs, towering

wine racks made from

real canoes and quirky

scrap metal Fred Conlon

sculptures like the one

shown above. Find all

this and more at the

sprawling Sandy Springs

or Decatur Kudzu store.

KudzuAndCompany.com

editor’spicks

editor’seditor’s

New and notable home improvement products

The Guy Collection

1

2

5

3

4








1114_018-021_editors pick.indd 18 10/21/14 10:09 AM

3







1114_018-021_editors pick.indd 19 10/16/14 5:02 PM

flooranddecor.com

UNBELIEVABLE PRICES WILL MAKE YOUR DREAM A REALITY.

Many home owners dream of �ooring they see in magazines, but most are afraid to attempt those trends in their own homes. Surprisingly, the most intimidating aspect of most home improvement projects isn’t the budget. It’s almost always the design aspect of the work. Fortunately, Floor & Decor offers free in-store design services to all clients. We asked Sue Rittenburg at Floor & Decor’s 1-85 Design Center about her work with customers and some of the latest trends for fall.

Q Sue, you’ve been at Floor & Decor as a designer for some time now. What is your favorite part about

working with the customers?

A I believe that everyone can have a beautiful home, and the best part of my job is helping clients realize that

dream. My job is to bring the project in their imaginations to life. Honestly, it is my favorite thing to do.

Q Why do you think people are nervous about home improvement projects?

AChange is scary. And I do think the process of translating an idea into a reality is really intimidating for most people.

Another reason that home improvement projects can be nerve- wracking is the belief that projects must cost astronomical amounts of money to be beautiful. Every budget and every price

point offers options to produce truly stunning and unique looks for even the most discriminating client without breaking the bank.

Q What trends should people be trying in their homes right now for a more current look?

AVinyl �ooring has improved dramatically in the last few years. New technology has offered vinyl �ooring imprinted

with the beautiful and surprisingly convincing look of hardwoods – and even ceramic tile – in an array of colors and �nishes.

Preferences in hardwoods are leaning toward darker stains, with a growing interest in gray tones. Also, look for more wood �oors that have been hand-scraped and hand-textured. People are willing to pay for a new �oor, but they want it to look old.

Large Format Tiles are another trend right now. These tiles, in sizes like 12x24 inches, are being used in showers and other areas of the home.

And �nally, Porcelain plank �ooring is a huge trend right now. This �ooring looks just like wood but has the durability of porcelain. The porcelain comes in some amazing �nishes and many lengths and widths.

For more information on Floor & Decor’s design services, please visit any Metro Atlanta location or �ooranddecor.com.

How to Get the Hottest Designs in Flooring in Your HomeDesigner Sue Rittenburg talks trends in �ooring options

This article is brought to you by Floor & Decor | �ooranddecor.com Atlanta (I-85 / Clairmont) | Morrow | Kennesaw | Roswell



TheDownstairsDude

ways to transform your basement into a magnifi cent man cave By Kathy Kantorski

51114_022-035_Man-Cave.indd 22 10/15/14 4:10 PM


When it comes to a

home’s interior design,

women usually rule.

Which is why men

sometimes put their

foot down on having a

space they can call their

own—a space to relax,

unwind and enjoy all

of their favorite things.

They often call this

their “man cave.”

“Man cave means

different thing s to

different people, but

‘escape from reality’

would be the common

theme,” says H. Dale

Contant, president

of Atlanta Design &

Build. He explains that

these spaces can be

themed around travel,

a hobby or a passion.

The space can even

be family friendly,

involving activities for

all members of the

household. For Linda

Castle of Decorated

Designs, this area

Photo courtesy of Atlanta Design & Build

1114_022-035_Man-Cave.indd 23 10/17/14 2:50 PM

24 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014

“allowed me to let my husband feel that he was part of the decorating by giving him a space

where he could make the selections himself,” she says, smiling as she adds, “…sort of.”

Contant and Castle join several other Atlanta-area pros in outlining the following �ve ways

to transform your basement into a relaxing man retreat.

Home TheaterIt’s of�cial: men like big screens. (Plush seating is nice too.) Adding a “home

theater” or “media room” to your man retreat incorporates these favorite features

and provides a multimedia audio-visual experience with enough space for a

group of friends to join. “This room can be as simple as the bonus room with

a �at-screen TV and a sofa to a full theater room with leather recliners, a popcorn maker, a

large screen and an overhead projector,” Castle says, “…as long as it’s a manly place to watch

sports, relax with the guys and not worry about making a mess.”

Unless you have the budget to buy new equipment every two years or so, don’t worry about

whether your theater is equipped with the latest and greatest technology. Buy sensibly while

also keeping in mind what is already becoming outdated. For instance, buying an LED TV is

smart, but the new curved OLED TVs might be a passing trend. The same goes for TVs with

3-D capability that you’ll never use. “The new technology for movie and TV viewing is hard

to keep up with,” Castle notes. However, she believes that streaming movies is a feature that

seems to be here to stay. In other words, investing in streaming technology is a safe bet.

1

Photos courtesy of Janice Dietz, The Consulting House, Inc., photography by Josh Vick

1114_022-035_Man-Cave.indd 24 10/17/14 2:50 PM

Portable ProjectorFor a modest price, Epson’s

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for Dad, but it’s important to keep the family in mind as well. “It is wise to separate the kids’ playroom and TV area from the bar and social room, but still be visually close to monitor activities,” H. Dale Contant advises. “We �nd that fun dads want the man cave for friends and adult family, but still make the space a big draw for kids and teenagers so you know where they are.” Just remember to have lockable storage for the alcohol.

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1114_022-035_Man-Cave.indd 25 10/17/14 2:50 PM

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BarThe bar is a staple in many man retreats, and for good

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from-home of choice among men, so replicating that environment

in their own home makes sense—not to mention the desirable

social atmosphere a bar provides. One way to really trick out your

bar is to install refrigerator drawers. Keep those icy old beverages

and snacks within easy reach!

For men who enjoy wine, a wine cellar can be incorporated in

a myriad of ways. “The wine cellar can be hidden in very small

places but still perform in a robust way,” Contant says, “or it can be

a visual component to show off and store the collection of a wine

enthusiast.”

2

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Game RoomA “classic” man cave would feature

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stools. It would also have a big screen TV and

autographed photos of Evander Holy�eld, Hank

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a buzzer-beating jumper. And a pool table is a must!

Men love competition, and activities such as pool,

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contest into the space. You can’t have too many

games!

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Relive the era of classic arcade games with machines from Dream Arcades, the world’s largest manufacturer and distributor of arcade machines for the home. Machines include more than 145 classic games built in—the fun begins as soon as it’s plugged in, no quarters needed. In addition, you can add more games to the machine by purchasing additional titles, including Mortal Kombat, Space Invaders and Golden Tee Golf. $1,899-$1,999, DreamArcades.com

3



1114_022-035_Man-Cave.indd 29 10/20/14 11:15 AM


Before Finishing the Basement…

It’s important to prepare an unfinished basement before you begin your makeover—addressing moisture concerns should be at the top of that preparation list. Aquaguard Foundation Solutions offers the following tips for prepping your un�nished basement.

• ddress all sources of standing water. Clean your gutters, regrade the soil outside and install a waterproo�ng system in your basement (a full-perimeter drainage system with sump pump and battery backup).

• liminate humidit from the space with a basement dehumidi�er.

• Designate areas that will remain un�nished, such as a utility space for your water heater and sump pump.

• lan our rooms around obstacles, such as windows with an emergency exit (necessary for basement bedrooms to meet building codes) and areas of limited ceiling height.

• Choose basement read nishing materials. Avoid

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1114_022-035_Man-Cave.indd 30 10/16/14 5:15 PM

A Room with a GymWhether you’re a �tness guru or just a guy who likes to

lift weights every now and then, you can incorporate some

equipment into your hangout area.

Standard features include: lots of mirrors, good �uorescent or LED

lighting, commercial carpet with rubber area pads or a gym �oor

system, lots of equipment, refrigeration for water and sports drinks

and a place for clean and soiled towels.

Keep your own needs in mind, advises Phil Verstrate of Premier Fitness

Source. “There are two most common mistakes homeowners make

when out�tting a home gym. The �rst is buying without thoroughly

trying out the equipment. The second is buying equipment that doesn’t

meet your personal exercise goals,” Verstrate says. “Just as you would

never buy a car without taking a test drive, you shouldn’t commit to

exercise equipment that doesn’t have the right bio-mechanics and feel

for your workouts. Does the machine adapt to your height and shape?

Is it smooth? Does it feel solid and have a reputation for durability?

Your personal workout preferences, previous injuries, the space

limitations in your home and your budget all play important parts in

choosing the equipment that best �ts you.”

4

Mini WorkoutYou don’t need hundreds of square feet to create a home gym. There are loads of space-saving and cost-conscious ways to devote a corner of the “man space” to shaping up. Punching bags come in all shapes and sizes and none take up a lot of floor space. Free weight rack design is getting more and more clever. You can now fit dozens of handweights in only 8 square feet. Get researching, get creative and get fit!

Before Finishing the Basement…

Photo courtesy of MOSAIC Group [Architects and Remodelers]


1114_022-035_Man-Cave.indd 31 10/20/14 11:15 AM


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Wine Cellar 101Creating a wine cellar in your home is a great way to indulge

in a personal passion, show off your collection and even to

use as a tasting room or entertaining space! Size isn’t much

of a concern. Your wine cellar can be no bigger than a closet or span as

grandly as the one shown above. But there are a few things to consider

before you start down this tasty path. Temperature is crucial! You need to

be able to ensure that this area will stay cool...but not too cool. According

to Wine Spectator magazine, the ideal temperature range is between 45° F

and 65° F. Also keep in mind that wine should always be stored on its side

(keeping the cork wet and the seal tight) and the bottles should never be

stored on top of or near anything that vibrates too much. It disturbs the

sediment and could ruin the taste of the wine. There go your plans for a

two-in-one laundry room/wine cellar.

Editorial Resources begin on page 66.

5

Specialty Spaces

This category could also be called a “personalized space.” Golf lovers can have a simulated driving range. Craftsmen may add a woodshop. Photographers might want a studio, musicians could add a music room, smokers a cigar room or pipe area … the list can go on and on. This is your chance to make the man cave really custom. “Make it personal—don’t make your man cave the same as your friend Joe’s,” says Monti Marsters, of Totally Accessible Homes.

Photo courtesy of MOSAIC Group [Architects and Remodelers]

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Geared Up Garages

The Evolution of the Parking Spot By Karon Warren

The word garage is French in origin, derived from the verb “garer,” or “to dock.”

That makes sense as the garage is where most homeowners “dock” a car or two (or boat, if they’re lucky.) But

as many Atlanta houses have expanded in size, so have garages. This leaves more space to tuck in things like

sporting equipment, yard tools, automotive tools,

recycle bins and the like. Some Atlanta homeowners

have taken it a step further and transformed their

garage into a workspace or gardening shed, or even

extra play space. Here are some ideas so that you, too,

can get the most out of your garage.

Gaining AttentionAfter the kitchen, bathrooms and master bedroom

are renovated, garages are “the last bastion where

homeowners turn their focus,” says Doug Calvert of

Garage Solutions Atlanta. “They want a better living

environment for the garage. They are wanting to create

a living, working space in the garage.”

Calvert says his recent projects include the installation

of � oors and custom cabinets, which allows room

for workspaces. “People really are wanting, � nally, to

use their garage space effectively,” he says. “They are

turning to companies like ours to do this.”

In fact, renovating the garage seems to be a natural

evolution in creating a total home environment.

“The garage is a re� ection of the entire house,” says

Alan Mishkoff of Granite Garage Floors in Alpharetta.

“Garage space is 10 to 15 percent of the square footage

of the house. People spend a lot of money and attention

to detail for the front entry, and it should be the same

for the garage. It’s really just an upgrade to the house.” Photos courtesy of (from top) Image Doors and Overhead Door Company of Atlanta, Photography by Tim Smith

36 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014

1114_036-043_GaragesREV.indd 36 10/17/14 2:59 PM

All garages are not created equal—Do your

research and � nd the

perfect solution for your

speci� c needs —You may

be surprised by what’s

available these days!

Behind the DoorWhile carriage- and barn-style doors remain popular,

homeowners are taking these and other garage doors to

new heights. “A lot of customers are choosing to ‘high

lift’ their doors,” says Jerri Meredith of Metro Garage

Door. “This takes your garage door up and into the

ceiling for customers who wish to have more headroom.

For instance, customers who often work on cars, or who

want to keep a larger vehicle in the garage, or a garage/

barn for motor homes. Most doors offer a high lift track

to accommodate [their needs].”

Choosing the right door can change the entire look of

the garage on the inside as well. “If you want to give the

illusion of more openness, going with a ‘full view’ door

would be an option,” Meredith says. “You see this mostly

used in a commercial application, but the same doors

can work in a residential setting. It is becoming more

popular in the Southern states.”

Overhead door technology reaches far beyond

the traditional one-button remote. “Some garage

door controls now offer the capability to operate

your garage door from your Internet or using a

smartphone app,” Meredith says. “One of the new

innovative products, made by Liftmaster, is called

MyQ technology.” With this application, homeowners

can securely monitor and control the garage door

opener and houselights from a smartphone, tablet or

computer.

A CLEAR VIEW Options, options, options. You’re no longer limited to a small strip of rectangular garage windows. Consider arched doors, full view windows or even a subtle, frosted look.

Photo courtesy of Clopay Building Products



Get Floored A lot of Atlanta homeowners are foregoing the traditional

plain concrete �ooring in favor of a �nished, sealed �oor

that holds up under hot tires, car �uids and any mess a

toddler can throw at it. “We’re seeing a big uptick in epoxy

�ooring,” Calvert says. “Many are empty nesters who now

have more disposable income and nicer cars.” Many have

always wanted a beautiful garage, and now they are treating

themselves to something they may have put off until they

had the time and the funds to do so, he adds.

According to Calvert, these epoxy �oors protect the �oor

and provide a showroom-quality look to the garage. The

process includes grinding the concrete, applying epoxy,

adding plastic chips for color and then sealing the �oor to

repel spills.

Many Atlanta homeowners are opting to give their garage

�oors a granite �nish. “It really upgrades the space,”

Mishkoff says. “Many homeowners also paint the garage to

match the �oor.” Earth tones, by far, are the most popular

colors, he adds. These include blacks, browns and beiges.

Mishkoff says a premium garage �oor solution can provide

a better investment for homeowners. “DIY-ers and painters

don’t usually prepare the �oor correctly, so hot tires will

peel the paint up,” he says. More than half of his business

comes from people looking to redo their garage from an

earlier DIY or painter job.

Photo courtesy of Granite Garage Floors


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Stash ItBehind the primary function of housing the car, the garage

is quickly becoming a hot spot for storage. From holiday

decorations and off-season clothes to sports equipment

and gardening tools, homeowners are stashing everything

in the garage. Unfortunately, this habit can result in a lot

of stacked boxes between vehicles and yard tools standing

haphazardly against the wall. To remedy this problem,

residents are selecting a variety of storage solutions

including cabinetry, shelving, hanging racks and even

overhead storage bins.

“There’s a large interest in overhead storage,” Calvert says.

“It creates more space inside the house by storing items

like holiday decorations. People are very in tune with

getting things off the � oor.” To do this, Calvert says he’s

seeing homeowners choose 4x8 metal racks that attach to

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and so on.

When installing these storage

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Effective storage solutions are especially bene� cial in

smaller, “ITP” garages. “That’s where we install a lot of

Monkey Bars systems,” Calvert says. Speci� cally, these

homeowners are going with shelving systems featuring

16-inch deep shelves, as well as hooks so they can store

items and hang up bikes, golf clubs and even totes.

Shed Some LightWorking in a garage (or even having enough light just to

� nd a baseball glove) can be challenging. In most homes,

the standard lighting is four-lamp � orescent lighting

� xtures attached to the ceiling. “We are seeing much

more interesting lighting,” Calvert says. For instance, on

a recent project, the homeowners opted for warehouse

lamps. “They really wanted a more upscale look,” he says.

Another way to brighten up the garage is by changing

out the solid garage door to one with windows. “Having

a garage door with windows or purchasing a ‘full view’

garage door would certainly give you more light into

the garage, especially if you do not have house windows

in the garage,” Meredith says. “You have the options of

windows in the top of the section or the second section

down, and you can also have clear glass or get decorative

inserts or designer glass.”

Make a Plan When embarking on a garage renovation or upgrade,

Calvert recommends doing some online research to see all

the storage solutions, garage � ooring options and lighting

available for homeowners. Then narrow it down to how

you want your garage to look and function. Use that as a

guideline to talk with your garage professional. Together

you can design a system that meets your needs and budget.

“A lot of people are intimidated, but people are just

amazed at how little it costs to install some solutions,”

Calvert says. “You can always add more down the road

to get exactly what you want within your budget.” For

example, Calvert says homeowners can start with just

four feet of Monkey Bars for $240 installed with tax.

If you plan to redo your entire garage and have the luxury

of time, Mishkoff recommends painting the walls � rst,

� nishing the � oor next and, � nally, installing your cabinets

and storage solutions. This process helps the entire project

move along in a smooth and ef� cient manner.

Garages have always served a necessary purpose when it

comes to housing vehicles. But with a little imagination

and renovation, you’ll soon be able to “dock” much more

than just a car in your garage!


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Whata ManWants

How todecorate

with the manin mind

By Mickey Goodman

hen you think “bachelor pad,” a million clichés spring to mind. Sexy dramatic lighting, soft

music in the background and a lot of 007 touches. But the reality is that men—like women—just want to feel relaxed as soon as they walk in the door.

spring to mind. Sexy dramatic lighting, soft music in the background and a lot of 007 touches.

“MASCULINE”DESIGN

can take many forms but often includes

over-sized furniture, stonework textures

and dramaticlighting.

Photo courtesy of Studio A2 LLC, photography by Brian Gassel Photography

1114_044-053_Man Decor.indd 45 10/17/14 3:15 PM

“Occasionally, I get a client who wants a party

place that looks good at night with a cozy

Chester�eld couch and romantic lighting,”

says Shawn Alshut of architecture and interior

design �rm Studio A2, “…but the primary focus

is always on creating a comfortable home.”

Less is More“When it comes to a ‘man pad,’ decorating

doesn’t have to be that different,” Alshut says.

“Both sexes want a welcoming home that

speaks to their personalities and lifestyles.”

The main difference is scale. A male-

dominated home should generally

design ‘larger,’ with chairs and sofas that

accommodate a larger frame. “Men also

tend to prefer natural materials, especially

leather,” Alshut says. “I don’t think I’ve

ever worked with a man who didn’t want a

comfortable leather chair. On the surface,

it may seem extravagant, but leather is

virtually indestructible and will last a

lifetime. And I always include an ottoman so

his feet won’t end up on the coffee table.”

Bill Musso of the Musso Design Group

concurs. “Men like chairs better than sofas,”

he says. “They want their individual space

and are much more concerned with how

furniture feels than how it looks.”

To learn more about a client’s taste, Musso

asks to peek into his closet. “I can tell a lot

about people by the way they dress and the

way their closets are put together,” he says.

“Clothing gives clues to whether a man

prefers a casual or more dapper look. What

colors does he like? Does he primarily wear

dress shirts with cuf�inks and silk ties or

casual jeans and golf shirts? Are his clothes

in pristine order or helter-skelter?”

Lifestyle is also important to consider. “The

man who travels every week on business

and the man who works from home have far

different needs in terms of decor,” Musso says.

“He’s the traveler wants to keep it minimal. The

man who works out of the house or at an of�ce

nearby may want a place to entertain. But both

like a study or of�ce where they can hole up

and work on one task at a time rather than

multi-tasking like women who tend to live in

every room in the house.” There’s a difference

in how men of certain ages handle different

DARK TONES &

EARTHY TEXTURES: They go together like leather and smooth

granite. Dark and earthy tones can add

a manly touch to any room in the

house.46 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 www.atlantahomeimprovement.com

1114_044-053_Man Decor.indd 46 10/17/14 3:15 PM

aspects of design. Musso says his under-40 clients are inclined to get more

involved in the décor than older generations. “Men used to ask me, ‘how

much?’ Now they are much more interested in the aesthetics,” he says.

Accessories in a man pad are pared down and also larger in scale.

Oversized black and white photos, abstract paintings with a pop of color

and sleek sculptures are pretty standard. “Men know what they like and

they appreciate value,” says Robin Lamonte of Rooms Revamped. “I think

they are easier to work with than women because they’re usually not as

involved in the design process. Men don’t want to spend hours shopping

or look at a lot of swatches,” she says. “The main questions I get once I

present the design are: ‘When can I expect it to be ready? Will I like it?

And what is the total price?’”

To better hit the mark, designers have to ask “leading” questions. They ask

what colors does the client prefer? Do they like contemporary, transitional

or traditional styling? What are the favorite pieces in their current home?

Most men want the �replace, large �at screen TV and sound system to be

features of the room rather than have them hidden behind doors. In fact,

some men admit they would rather sit on the �oor and have an over-the-

top audio/visual system than an expensive sofa.

COMFORT IS KING: A gathering place for

friends and family is key. The sports, the

big screen TV— and a lot of

roomy seating.

Photos courtesy of (clockwise from top left) Decorated Designs, photography by Christopher Oquendo; Bill Musso, photography by Lauren Rubenstein and Enhance Floors & More

UPTOWN GUY: Sometimes a man

just wants sleek, chic and accents of bold colors. Clean lines

are the signature of this slick sitting

room.


1114_044-053_Man Decor.indd 47 10/17/14 3:15 PM

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In common spaces like the living room, dining

room or den, men often prefer deep, earth tones,

natural textured fabrics and wall coverings. They

also usually favor a cleaner, more contemporary

style. “But that doesn’t mean the room has to

be cold,” Lamont says. “They often like to mix it

up with a combination of traditional and edgy

contemporary furnishings.”

For example, one of Lamonte’s male clients

chose eggplant paint with silver accents on

the walls and ceiling that re� ected light.

Another chose features like deer heads, bold

landscapes and wall sculptures to accent his

contemporary furnishings. A newly divorced

client who was an equestrian lover had pictures

of thoroughbreds throughout his former family

home. “We blew up a photo of a magni� cent

horse to 36 inches by 64 inches to hang over his

� replace,” she says. “He loved it.”

Another client of Alshut’s didn’t trust his

own judgment in art and relied totally on her

design team. “Everything we chose for him was

sculptural – the � oor � xtures, the overhead

lighting and even a two-sided textured walnut

wall that turned the interior design into the

artwork.”

Chef’s kitchen or bare bones?Kitchen design varies greatly from client to

client. “Some men may love cooking and want

contemporary gourmet spaces in rich tones

with high end appliances and great lighting,”

Alshut says. Others, who frequently eat out

For the man who lives alone:• Color

• comfortable furniture

• audiovisual equipment

• fewer accessories

• Three-dimensional artwork

• Bathrooms

• Kitchens

• closets

—Shawn Alshut, Studio A2Photos courtesy of Bill Musso,

photography by Lauren Rubenstein

KEEP IT SIMPLE: The modern man’s

kitchen is often simple in design, but still

loaded with all latest appliances, bells &

whistles.

BOLD COLOR: A neutral color scheme can be very masculine

but consider adding touches of bold color.

It will inject styleand energy toyour space.


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or tend to throw something in the

microwave, put less emphasis on the

kitchen. Regardless, both want simple

detailing, clean design and extras like

wine coolers and coffee machines.

“I �nd today’s male clients much

more interested in kitchen design

than some might think,” Musso says.

“Having the latest, greatest appliances

is more important to a man who loves

to cook than cabinets and countertops,

as long as the look is sleek and

contemporary. They want a real chef’s

kitchen with all the bells and whistles,

and if they add an outdoor kitchen for

entertaining, the bigger, the better.”

BedroomsIn direct contrast to the deep colors in

the living areas, men tend to ask for

bedroom decor that resembles more

serene, upscale hotel rooms. Ralph

Lauren plaids in hunter green and

maroon are out and neutrals like beige

and gray are in. “A splash of color

is welcome, but I always eliminate

the piles of pillows that men �nd so

annoying,” Musso says.

For example, Lamonte recently

designed a bedroom for a Manhattan

townhouse owned by a well known

football player, choosing a gray palette

with coral accents. Although he

approved of the colored pillow shams,

like Musso’s clients, he was adamant

about eliminating multiple pillows.

When it comes to closets, the

designers all agree that men request

built-out systems that include drawers

and a hanging space that is clean,

well organized and customized to �t

their individual needs. They want a

place for everything and everything

in its place. They also prefer dark, rich

woods like mahogany or cherry.

In bathrooms, men lean toward an

organic feel with natural stone and

tiles, high-end �xtures and large sinks.

But the most important feature is an

elaborate shower with body sprays,

rain showers, steam showers and even

a sound system.



1114_044-053_Man Decor.indd 51 10/20/14 3:54 PM

Location, location, location. Interior designer Craig Duncan

explains why he picked speci�c Myers �ooring options for

each of homeowner Anne R. Cowan’s �ve different rooms...

“In the room pictured above, I chose an indoor/outdoor �at-

weave because we wanted a sisal/seagrass look without

worrying about the care required with a natural product. This

product wears well and is great for a family with children

and pets. Moving over to the staircase, I really wanted it to

make a statement. So there I opted for this beautiful wool,

needlepoint material with medallions. Over in the library, I

wanted to not detract from the beautiful paneling, so I chose a

subtler pattern. In the formal powder room (photo 4) I added a

border to “dress” up the look. Finally, for the higher traf�c area

of the friends and family powder room, I chose an extremely

durable indoor/outdoor �at weave.”

By keeping the location as well as style in mind, Duncan

made smart, durable, elegant choices—all throughout this

stunning home.

Photos courtesy of Myers Carpet Photography by Gregg Willett Photography

Totally Floored 5 Rooms, 5 Fabulous Flooring Options

featuredhomeproject

Features of this project 1. Living Room Carpet: Curacao by Couristan

2. Stairway Carpet Runner: Bitterman by Silver Creek

3. Library Carpet: Winkleman by Silver Creek

4. Formal Powder Room Rug: Argyle Trellis by Nourison

5. Main Powder Room Rug: Antigua by Couristan

This month’s featured home project presented by

(404) 352-8141www.myerscarpetatlanta.com

1500 Northside Drive, Atlanta, Ga 30318

1

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ATLANTA’S COMPLETE FLOORING STORE! SPECIALIZING IN CUSTOM FLOORING & INSTALLATIONS.

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52 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 53

1114_044-053_Man Decor.indd 52 10/17/14 3:15 PM

Location, location, location. Interior designer Craig Duncan

explains why he picked speci�c Myers �ooring options for

each of homeowner Anne R. Cowan’s �ve different rooms...

“In the room pictured above, I chose an indoor/outdoor �at-

weave because we wanted a sisal/seagrass look without

worrying about the care required with a natural product. This

product wears well and is great for a family with children

and pets. Moving over to the staircase, I really wanted it to

make a statement. So there I opted for this beautiful wool,

needlepoint material with medallions. Over in the library, I

wanted to not detract from the beautiful paneling, so I chose a

subtler pattern. In the formal powder room (photo 4) I added a

border to “dress” up the look. Finally, for the higher traf�c area

of the friends and family powder room, I chose an extremely

durable indoor/outdoor �at weave.”

By keeping the location as well as style in mind, Duncan

made smart, durable, elegant choices—all throughout this

stunning home.

Photos courtesy of Myers Carpet Photography by Gregg Willett Photography

Totally Floored 5 Rooms, 5 Fabulous Flooring Options

featuredhomeproject

Features of this project 1. Living Room Carpet: Curacao by Couristan

2. Stairway Carpet Runner: Bitterman by Silver Creek

3. Library Carpet: Winkleman by Silver Creek

4. Formal Powder Room Rug: Argyle Trellis by Nourison

5. Main Powder Room Rug: Antigua by Couristan

This month’s featured home project presented by

(404) 352-8141www.myerscarpetatlanta.com

1500 Northside Drive, Atlanta, Ga 30318

1

2

ATLANTA’S COMPLETE FLOORING STORE! SPECIALIZING IN CUSTOM FLOORING & INSTALLATIONS.

3

4 5

MyersC A R P E T

52 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 53

1114_044-053_Man Decor.indd 53 10/17/14 3:15 PM

Mary Kay Woodworth is executive director of the Georgia Urban Agriculture Council (UAC). She previously ran Practically Gardening, a landscape consulting �rm, and was Master Gardener Coordinator for the DeKalb

County Cooperative Extension Service. Mary Kay is a frequent speaker at area schools, garden clubs, civic organizations and trade shows.

Questions about your landscape or hiring a professional landscaper? Send emails to

[email protected].

12

4

6

8

3

5

7

910

Replace frostbitten and ragged annuals with colorful cool-weather annuals and biennials. Plant dianthus, snapdragons and ornamental

kale for color throughout the winter months, and remember to water

and fertilize. Parsley, rosemary and other edible plants look great

mixed in with annual �owers too.

Roses can be planted in early November. Aerate soil around the

roots and hill up the earth 10 to 12 inches around the crown after

a heavy frost.

Think about four seasons when choosing shrubs and trees. Witchhazel, Daphne odora, Lenten roses, Japanese pieris, winter

honeysuckle, forsythia, leucothoe and blueberries are some of the

many options available that will give you color, �ower, fruit and

fragrance during many seasons of the year.

Think ahead to spring—plant spring-blooming bulbs such as daffodils, crocus, hyacinth and tulips now. Use a bulb fertilizer

for magni�cent �owers once warmer weather returns.

If you’ve still got summer vegetables planted, be sure to harvest

them before the �rst hard freeze; incorporate lime and fertilizer in the annual and vegetable gardens for the next growing season.

Mulching is one of the best lines of defense to protect perennials and shrubs during winter’s low temperatures. Mulching also can

prevent injury from frost. Add fallen leaves to your compost pile

or shred them to use as mulch.

Remove the leaves and debris that fall from perennials and

deciduous shrubs and trees to prevent insects and diseases from

overwintering. Put down fresh mulch in its place.

Cut back perennials to 4 or 5 inches, but leave ornamental

grasses to provide winter interest and wait until February to

prune grasses back.

Apply the last round of fertilizer to your fescue lawn this month,

and put the fertilizer and spreader away until February. If you’ve

recently reseeded, make sure to remove fallen leaves from the

lawn.

Clean, sharpen and oil your gardening tools before storing them for the winter. Also, drain gasoline from your lawn

mower and make sure all its parts are clean and dry.

10tips

for creating and maintaining a

beautiful garden in

november

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The more a homeowner knows about the overall operation of his or her home, the

better off that homeowner will be. Be it structure, mechanicals,

electrical or plumbing, knowledge of each aspect of his or her

home can end up saving both time and money when it comes to

home maintenance or repair.

Luckily, that knowledge is easily accessible these days, thanks to

the Internet. Knowing some simple troubleshooting procedures

will help avoid unnecessary and costly repairs.

Case in point: One homeowner had an apparent problem with an

air conditioning compressor. The air handler (furnace) continued

to operate, but the exterior compressor would frequently

shut down. The company which handled his home warranty

policy sent technicians to diagnose and repair the problem.

Unfortunately the policy did not cover all the repair cost, and the

homeowner had to pay $600 out of pocket. And yet the problem

repeated! A second tech, more work, more expense...and the

problem repeated! A third set of mechanics took hold of the

issue and - �nally - solved the problem.

So what was this elusive issue that baf�ed three sets of HVAC

pros? Why did it take so much time, effort and expense to get

the problem resolved? The mechanical problem turned out to be

a very simple one. The condensate pump (the one that pumps

out the water that accumulates on the cooling coils of the air

handler) was equipped with a safety switch. That safety switch

is designed to respond to a high water level in the chamber of

the condensate pump. If that water level gets too high, the safety

switch cuts off the compressor so the system does not �ood the

home with water condensed on the cooling coils.

If the plastic line from the condensate pump is clogged, the water

has nowhere to go. So the water level rises, the safety switch is

tripped and the compressor shuts off. The third set of mechanics

�nally looked at what was the simplest, and therefore, what

should have been the FIRST option for resolving the problem. The

plastic condensate line was clogged by accumulated debris at

the point where it exited the home. So much fruitless effort and

useless expense had been applied to a simple problem!

The moral of this story: Educate yourself on the troubleshooting

protocols established for the various elements of your home.

Encourage any contractors to eliminate the easy stuff �rst. You’ll

end up saving time…and money.

Knowledge is Power—and Money

bob&rodman

Tune in to The Bob and RodMan Home Show every Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. on 920 AM-WGKA to learn how to improve your house or apartment. RodMan is a certi�ed home inspector, knows residential property appraisal and is a hands-on home renovator. Bob owned a roo�ng company, has

reclaimed distressed properties for years and has master licenses as a plumber, electrician and HVAC mechanic. www.bobandrodman.com

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Atlanta Home Improvement_Layout 1 9/15/14 4:53 PM Page 1

1114_058-059_CAHP.indd 58 10/15/14 4:20 PM

As an inspector, I often run across basement remodels that do not follow the building code for combustion air required for gas-burning appliances. Not only can this be hazardous to one’s health, but it can even lead to loss of life.

When gas-burning appliances are initially installed in an un�nished basement, the standard requirements are usually met just �ne, which means there is plenty of combustion air to operate the gas, water heater and gas furnace. That’s because no one lives in the basement, and no one sleeps close to the equipment!

All is good until the homeowner decides to �nish out the basement and add a bedroom. Unfortunately, many basements are built without permits and by contractors who have no awareness of current building codes. The homeowner, usually cost-conscious, decides to not apply for a permit to avoid tax increases. They also forego the services of an independent inspector to check on the work being performed on their home. This usually leads to a series of issues that are expensive to undo, like critical health issues caused by the amateur installation.

This is why it’s so important to have complete combustion of liquid and solid fuels in order to have the appliances function as intended. This makes sure harmful emissions, which are needed for fuel ef�ciency, are controlled.

We need oxygen, which is found in combustion air in suf�cient quantities, for the process of combustion to be complete. If not, we run the risk of creating dangerous byproducts, and at the same time, wasting energy due to unburned fuel (hydrocarbons). These byproducts are poisonous, corrosive and may cause appliance breakdown, creating hazards for �re or explosion.

A lack of combustion air can also lessen the available oxygen supply in a home, threatening the safety of the occupants and cause incomplete fuel combustion. I cannot overstate the importance of a good combustion air supply.

Combustion air? Who needs it? Maybe you…

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Appliances Builder Specialties, Inc ................. 8 Britt's ............................................ 12 CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 67

Quality & Service Are Our Priorities.

Distinctive Appliances ............... 32Howard Payne Company ............ 57Sewell Appliance & Service, Inc.... 16

Appliances Repair Service

Atlantis Appliance Repair .......... 64

Architecture/Design➚ Atlanta Design and Build ........... 50

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......67 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities

Balusters Balusters2Go ...................................48

Bars➚ Classic Bars .................................. 28

Basements Aquaguard Basement Systems....28 Artisans of Atlanta...................... 14 Atlanta Design and Build ........... 50

Green Basements and Remodeling .................................. 13

➚ North Highland PaintCompany .....5

Bathrooms Artisans of Atlanta...................... 14

Apex Kitchen & Bath .....................40

➚ Atlanta Design and Build ........... 50

Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense.

Chattahoochee Shower Doors ... 10

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 67 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities.

Custom Professional Remodeling .................................. 56

Designs by BSB ................................32

Drexler Shower Door .................... 4 Custom glass shower and tub

enclosures, mirrors, restoration glass, and much more

➚ Enhance Floors & More .................25 Frame It Mirror Designs ............. 44 Granite Transformations ............ 61


Keiffer Phillips Patricia Brown Builders, Inc. ....................................30

RENU Atlanta ............................... 32

S.D. Stone & Cabinet ................... 63

➚ TopSouth, Inc. .............................. 14

Building Supplies ACE Hardware .............................. 66 Atlanta Habitat For Humanity

ReStore ......................................... 62

Cabinets Atlanta Habitat For Humanity

ReStore ......................................... 62

Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense.

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 67 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities

Diversi�ed Cabinet Distributors ... 60

➚ Floor & Decor Outlets ........... 20, 21 Largest In-Stock Selection. Lowest

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S.D. Stone & Cabinet ................... 63

Spacemakers Closet Interiors ....... 19

Carpets/Rugs/Tiles Britt's ............................................ 12

➚ Enhance Floors & More .................25

Designer Rug Warehouse ..............51

Glover’s Flooring ......................... 59

➚ Myers Carpet ......................... 52, 53

➚ Oriental Designer Rugs .............. 61

Southern Classic Flooring .......... 48

Closets/Storage Artisan Custom Closets ............. 42

RENU Atlanta ............................... 32


Concrete/Concrete Resurfacing/Repair

B-Level SE ..................................... 40

Cool Concrete Designs of Atlanta .......................................... 64

CTI of Georgia .............................. 64

Mudjack ........................................ 59

Countertops Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2

Luxury without the expense.


Granite Transformations ............ 61 S.D. Stone & Cabinet ................... 63

➚ TopSouth, Inc. .............................. 14

Decks/Patios/Porches CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 67

Quality & Service Are Our Priorities CTI of Georgia .............................. 64

DC Enclosures.............................. 13➚ North Highland Paint Company ....5

Disaster Restoration Aquaguard BasementSystems ... 28

Energy Efficiency

Cool Air Mechanical...................... 9 Georgia Power .......................... 7, 35 Home Energy Solutions .............. 34 Jackson EMC ................................ 58

Events Moustache Dash.......................... 30

Fabric/Upholstery Decorating Mart .......................... 65 Fabric & Fringe Warehouse ........ 56 Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17

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resource�nderFireplace/Mantels

Builder Specialties, Inc ................. 8

The Fireplace Company ............. 38

Floor Refinishing Southern Classic Flooring .......... 48

Flooring Britt's ............................................ 12

CTI of Georgia .............................. 64

Daniels Floors .............................. 64




Glover’s Flooring ......................... 59

➚ Myers Carpet ......................... 52, 53

Southern Classic Flooring .......... 48

Foundation Repair Aquaguard Basement Systems....28

B-Level SE ..................................... 40

Cool Concrete Designs of Atlanta .......................................... 64

Furniture/Accessories Atlanta Habitat For Humanity

ReStore ......................................... 62 Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17 North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!

Horizon Home ............................. 51

Garage Doors Builder Specialties, Inc ................. 8 Image Doors ................................. 39➚ Metro Garage Door ...................... 50

Overhead Door of Atlanta ........................................... 42

Precision Garage Doors .................. 3

Garage Floors Granite Garage Floors ................. 41

Glass/Mirrors Chattahoochee Shower

Doors ............................................ 10 Drexler Shower Door. ................... 4

Custom glass shower and tub enclosures, mirrors, restoration glass, and much more

Frame It Mirror Designs ............. 44 Jennifer’s Glassworks ................. 57

Green Remodelers Products & Services Jackson EMC ................................ 58➚ Myers Carpet ......................... 52, 53

Hardscapes Splendor Koi & Pond ................... 11 The Fireplace

Company ...................................... 38

Home Decor Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17

North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!



Home Energy Audit Home Energy

Solutions ...................................... 34

Jackson EMC .................................. 58

Insulation/Home Sealing


Jackson EMC .................................. 58

Interior Design Decorating Mart .......................... 65

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 67 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities

Frame It Mirror Designs ............. 44

Fern Valley Landscapes & Interiors ........................................ 14

Get Blinds Today .......................... 40

➚ Myers Carpet ......................... 52, 53

➚ North Highland Paint Company ....5

Kitchens Artisans of Atlanta...................... 14




Cabinet & Stone City ........................ 2 Luxury without the expense.

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ............. 67 Quality & Service Are Our Priorities


Designs by BSB ................................32


Granite Transformations ............ 61


Keiffer Phillips Patricia Brown Builders, Inc. ....................................30

Howard Payne Company ........... 57

S.D. Stone & Cabinet ................... 63Sewell Appliance & Service, Inc ...16The Pull-Out Shelf Company .... 38

➚ TopSouth, Inc. .............................. 14

Landscape: Maintenance/Design

Fern Valley Landscapes & Interiors ........................................ 14

Outside Landscape Group.......... 55 Splendor Koi & Pond ................... 11

Landscape Supplies➚ NightVision Outdoor

Lighting ....................... Back Cover

Lighting Builder Specialties, Inc. ................ 8

Mattresses Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17

North Carolina Prices Without The Drive!

NARI Contractors Apex Kitchen and Bath .............. 40

Aquaguard Basement Systems....28

Artisans of Atlanta .........................14



Sewell Appliance & Service, Inc ...16

Vision Stairways & Millwork ..... 44

NKBA Member Designs by BSB ................................32

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1114_060-065_Res finder.indd 64 10/20/14 11:23 AM

resource�nderHoward Payne Company ............ 57

Organization Artisan Custom Closets ............. 42

The Pull-Out Shelf Company .... 38

Outdoor Furniture/Accessories

Architectural Transformations .. 62

Cornerstone Furniture ............... 17 North Carolina Prices Without The Drive!

➚ NightVision Outdoor Lighting ............................ Back Cover

Outdoor Grills The Fireplace Company ............. 38

Outdoor Kitchens DC Enclosures.............................. 13

The Fireplace Company ................38

Outdoor Lighting Architectural Transformations .. 62➚ NightVision Outdoor

Lighting ............................ Back Cover

Outdoor Living CTI of Georgia .............................. 64 Magnolia Outdoor Living ............. 4

Painting Green Basements and

Remodeling .................................. 13

➚ North Highland Paint Company ....5

Photography Gregg Willett Photography ......... 65

Plumbing DistributorsApex Kitchen and Bath .............. 40

PondsSplendor Koi & Pond ................... 11

Professional Assoc.Consult-a-Home-Pro (CAHP) ..... 59

National Association of the Remodeling Industry(NARI) ....... 62

Urban AG Council (UAC) ............. 66

Renovation/Remodeling


Aquaguard Basement Systems .. 28

Artisan Custom Closets ............. 42

Artisans of Atlanta .........................14


Balusters2Go ...................................48

Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2Luxury without the expense.

Cool Air Mechanical...................... 9

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 67Quality & Service Are Our Priorities.


DC Enclosures............................. .13➚ Enhance Floors & More .................25

Frame It Mirror Designs ............. 44


Keiffer Phillips Patricia Brown Builders, Inc. ...................................30


➚ TopSouth, Inc. .............................. 14

Shower Enclosures Chattahoochee Shower Doors ... 10

Drexler Shower Door. ................... 4 Custom glass shower and tub enclosures,

mirrors, restoration glass, and much more

➚ Glass Doctors ............................... 26 RENU Atlanta ............................... 32

Showrooms CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio ......... 67

Quality & Service Are Our Priorities.

DC Enclosures.............................. 13➚ Enhance Floors ............................ 25➚ Glass Doctor ....................................26

Shutters Get Blinds Today .......................... 40

Skylights/Sky Tunnels Get Daylight - Solatube .............. 64

Staircases Balusters2Go ...................................48


Vision Stairways & Millwork ....................................... 44

Sunrooms/Screened Porches➚ Atlanta Design and Build ........... 50 DC Enclosures.............................. 13 Magnolia Outdoor Living ............. 4

Tile/Ceramic Britt's ............................................ 12

➚ Enhance Floors & More .................25 Glover’s Flooring ......................... 59 Granite Transformations ............ 61➚ Floor & Decor Outlets ........... 20, 21

Largest In-Stock Selection. Lowest Prices On Hard Surface Flooring.

➚ Myers Carpet ......................... 52, 53 Southern Classic

Flooring ........................................ 48

Underdeck Systems Magnolia Outdoor Living ............. 4

Utilities Georgia Power .......................... 7, 35

Home Energy Solutions .............. 34

Jackson EMC ................................ 58

Vacuums Distinctive Appliances ............... 32

Windows/Doors➚ Glass Doctor ....................................26 Jennifer’s Glassworks ................. 57 Vision Stairways & Millwork ..... 44

Window Tinting/Treatments

Atlanta Habitat For Humanity ReStore ..................................... 62

Decorating Mart .......................... 65

Fabric & Fringe Warehouse ........ 56

Get Blinds Today .......................... 40

Karen's Fabrics ............................ 44

Vision Stairways & Millwork ....................................... 44

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O P E N T O P U B L I C



editorialresources

THE DOWNSTAIRS DUDE, p. 22-33, Aquaguard Foundation Solutions

(770) 419-9111,

AquaGuard.

net. Atlanta Design & Build, (770) 565-8999, AtlantaDesignBuild.

com. Consulting House Inc., (404) 754-3197,

ConsultingHouseInc.com. Decorated Designs, (404)

386-1468, DecoratedDesigns.net. Digital Interiors Inc., (770) 844-5800, Diiatl.com. MOSAIC Group [Architects and Remodelers, (770) 670-6022, MosaicGroupAtlanta.

com. Premier Fitness Source, (770) 908-0000,

PremierFitnessSource.com. Totally Accessible Homes,

(912) 585-7592, TotallyAccessibleHomes.com.

GEARED UP GARAGES, p. 36-43, Atlanta Storage and Closet Solutions,

(770) 330-5354,

AtlantaCloset.

com. Clopay Building

Products, (678) 473-1440, ClopayDoor.com.

Garage Solutions Atlanta, (770) 634-7234,

GarageSolutionsAtlanta.com. Granite Garage Floors,

(678) 500-9537, GraniteGarageFloors.com. Image Doors,

(770) 740-9030, Metro Garage Door Inc, (770) 489-9726,

MetroGarageDoorsInc.com, Overhead Door Atlanta,

(404) 872-3667, OverheadDoorAtlanta.com. Shorewood Industries, (706) 302-9339, ShorewoodInd.com.

WHAT A MAN WANTS, p. 45-49, Atlanta Design & Build, (770)

565-8999, AtlantaDesignBuild.

com, Decorated Designs, (770)

419-5267, DecoratedDesigns.

net. Enhance Floors, (770) 565-

3808, EnhanceFloors.com,

Musso Design Group, (404) 873-

1773, MussoDesignGroup.com,

Rooms Revamped Interior Design, (866) 579-2092,

RoomsRevamped.com. StudioA2 Design, (770) 861-8008,

Studioa2-Design.com.

Whata ManWants

How todecorate

with the manin mind

By Mickey Goodman

hen you think “bachelor pad” a million clichés spring to mind. Sexy dramatic lighting, soft

music in the background and a lot of 007 touches. But the reality is that men—like women—just want to feel relaxed as soon as they walk in the door.

spring to mind. Sexy dramatic lighting, soft music in the background and a lot of 007 touches.

“MASCULINE”DESIGN

can take many forms but often includes

over-sized furniture, stonework textures

and dramaticlighting.

Photo courtesy of Studio A2 LLC, photography by Brian Gassel Photography

Geared Up Garages

The Evolution of The Parking Spot By Karon Warren

The word garage is French in origin, derived from the verb “garer,” or “to dock.”

That makes sense as the garage is where most homeowners “dock” a car or two (or boat, if they’re lucky.) But

as many Atlanta houses have expanded in size, so have garages. This leaves more space to tuck in things like

sporting equipment, yard tools, automotive tools,

recycle bins and the like. Some Atlanta homeowners

have taken it a step further and transformed their

garage into a workspace or gardening shed, or even

extra play space. Here are some ideas so that you, too,

can get the most out of your garage.

Gaining AttentionAfter the kitchen, bathrooms and master bedroom

are renovated, garages are “the last bastion where

homeowners turn their focus,” says Doug Calvert of

Garage Solutions Atlanta. “They want a better living

environment for the garage. They are wanting to create

a living, working space in the garage.”

Calvert says his recent projects include the installation

of � oors and custom cabinets, which allows room

for workspaces. “People really are wanting, � nally, to

use their garage space effectively,” he says. “They are

turning to companies like ours to do this.”

In fact, renovating the garage seems to be a natural

evolution in creating a total home environment.

“The garage is a re� ection of the entire house,” says

Alan Mishkoff of Granite Garage Floors in Alpharetta.

“Garage space is 10 to 15 percent of the square footage

of the house. People spend a lot of money and attention

to detail for the front entry, and it should be the same

for the garage. It’s really just an upgrade to the house.”

All garages are not created equal—Do your

research and � nd the

perfect solution for your

speci� c needs —You may

be surprised by what’s

available these days!

Behind the DoorWhile carriage- and barn-style doors remain popular,

homeowners are taking these and other garage doors

to new heights. “A lot of customers are choosing to

‘high lift’ their doors,” says Jerri Meredith of Metro

Garage Door. “This takes your garage door up and

into the ceiling for customers who wish to have more

headroom. For instance, customers who often work

on cars, or who want to keep a larger vehicle in the

garage, or a garage/barn for motor homes. Most doors

you can order high lift track to accommodate [their

needs].”

Choosing the right door can change the entire look of

the garage on the inside as well. “If you want to give the

illusion of more openness, going with a ‘full view’ door

would be an option,” Meredith says. “You see this mostly

used in a commercial application, but the same doors

can work in a residential setting. It is becoming more

popular in the Southern states.”

Overhead door technology reaches far beyond the

traditional one-button remote. “Some garage door

controls now offer the capability to operate your garage

door from your Internet or using a smartphone app,”

Meredith says. “One of the new innovative products,

made by Liftmaster, is called MyQ technology.” With

this application, homeowners can securely monitor and

control the garage door opener and houselights from a

smartphone, tablet or computer.

A CLEAR VIEW Options, options, options. You’re no longer limited to a small strip of rectangular garage windows. Consider arched doors, full view windows or even a subtle, frosted look.

Photos courtesy of (from top) Dennis Easter and Overhead Door Company of Atlanta, Photography by Tim Smith

Photo courtesy of Clopay Building Products

www.atlantahomeimprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 3736 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014

22 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 www.atlantahomeimprovement.com www.atlantahomeimprovement.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT NOVEMBER 2014 23

TheDownstairsDude

ways to transform your basement into a magnifi cent man cave By Kathy Kantorski

5

When it comes to a

home’s interior design,

women usually rule.

Which is why men

sometimes put their

foot down on having a

space they can call their

own—a space to relax,

unwind and enjoy all

of their favorite things.

They often call this

their “man cave.”

“Man caves mean

different thing s to

different people, but

‘escape from reality’

would be the common

theme,” says H. Dale

Contant, president

of Atlanta Design &

Build. He explains that

these spaces can be

themed around travel,

a hobby or a passion.

The space can even

be family friendly,

involving activities for

all members of the

household. For Linda

Castle of Decorated

Designs, this area


Good advice is the best tool.C

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Client: AceAD #: ACEHDW 74Title: "Toolbox"Media: 4/C pgPubs: Various

Size: live: 7 1/8” x 9 3/4”trim: 7 3/4” x 10 1/2”bleed: 8 1/2” x 11 1/8”

Prod. Manager: Renata RobinsonDigital Artist: Peg ObersteArt Director: Kris WixomCopywriter: Alisa SengelEngraver: XYZ Graphics

Prepared by Goodby, Silverstein & Partners.2003. All rights reserved. 415-392-0669

4473 GSP 133M4473A_R3 04.08.04 RS

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Photo courtesy of Planters, Inc.

georgialandscapepro.comLandscape tips you can use from our

landscape professional members

urbanagcouncil.comDatabase of landscape professionals,

hiring guidelines, planning tips

Design | Installation

Seasonal color | Pools

Maintenance | Erosion

Drainage | Irrigation

Lighting | Water features

Outdoor kitchens | Fire pits

A landscape professional can take it from there.

Dream big!


1114_066_editorial res.indd 66 10/21/14 11:09 AM

6527 Jimmy Carter Blvd., C-2 Norcross, GA 30071 770-729-1999

Others promise, CSI delivers™

www.csikitchenandbath.com www.leichtstudiobycsi.com www.ruttstudiobycsi.com

www.csiclosetsandstorage.com

Monday—Friday: 8:30-5:30 Saturday: 10:00-4:00

CSI Kitchen & Bath Studio does more than gorgeous kitchens and baths! We can handle any home remodeling project you desire.

Call today for a FREE showroom consultation!

1114_cover-001.indd 67 10/15/14 4:21 PM

Award winning outdoor lightingcompany with 14 years experience lighting over 5000 Atlanta homes.

[email protected]

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1114_cover-001.indd 68 10/15/14 4:21 PM

atlanta home improvement 1114

Documents

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n t ac h