Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
As we have welcomed a new year with open arms, we are excited to unveil the interior design trends of 2024 while highlighting a style from 2023 that is here to stay.
Keeping up with the latest trends allows you to create spaces that reflect the pulse of the present and the promise of the future.
So what trends are “in” this year? Here is what you can expect in 2024…
A Trend That’s Not “So Last Year”
In 2023, Biophilic Design firmly established its presence in interior design. This transformative approach recognizes the innate human connection to nature and the impact it has on our well-being.
This year, this trend is growing, as it continues to bring nature indoors and captivates homeowners seeking harmony between their living spaces and the natural world.
So don’t leave Biophilic Design behind — this trend is here to stay!
See more of this kitchen remodel here.
What 2024 Has in Store: Bold Color Palettes
Now for the new trends. 2024 is the year of bold color palettes. As designers bid farewell to spaces filled with muted tones, the resurgence of vibrant and daring color choices adds a refreshing energy into living spaces.
This year you can expect to see wallpaper with bold patterns, statement tiles that redefine the notion of conventional, and bold hues splashed across accent pieces.
Smart Storage Solutions
Although being organized never really goes out of style, this year smart storage solutions are more front and center than ever before. As homes become more compact and contemporary, the need for efficient storage has never been more crucial.
Embracing this, designs integrate innovative storage solutions, proving that practicality can coexist with style. From hidden compartments and charging stations, to multifunctional furniture, these smart storage solutions not only declutter spaces but also enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of homes.
Flow and Spatial Design
A third interior design trend for 2024 that is becoming exponentially popular is flow and spatial design. A well thought out spatial arrangement allows for harmonious living combining open layouts with defined spaces. This approach contributes to a holistic living experience where every corner feels purposeful and interconnected.
Is 2024 Your Year?
If you have been putting off your home renovation because you don’t know where to start, or what’s considered “trendy”, now you have a glimpse into what’s hot for 2024.
Care less about “trends” and just want a timeless, functional space? That works, too!
Contact Synergy Design and Construction today to start the conversation on making your house your dream home!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Revitalize your ride and wash away the winter snow, salt and grime with a Free Car Wash from Mr Wash in Tysons Corner!
The brand new Tysons Corner location at 8218 Leesburg Pike is loaded with the latest car wash equipment and technology that gives cars the best possible shine.
Mr Wash has been washing cars since 1958. Mr Wash Car Wash offers monthly plans that include Unlimited Car Washes for one low monthly price and access to all 11 Mr Wash locations in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware.
Experience the excellence of Mr Wash for free. Claim your complimentary car wash voucher today!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column alternating with “Exploring Fairfax” that takes a deeper look around Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris and Aaron Nichols of McEnearney Associates Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479 and Aaron at 703-915-9852.
Hello Fairfax!
I’m Aaron Nichols. As a dad, a husband, a youth sports coach, and local Realtor®, I’m so excited for our journey through the communities of Fairfax County with my new video and neighborhood series!
Living and working in this vibrant community has given me a unique perspective on all the amazing places and activities it has to offer. From family-friendly outings perfect for weekends with your kids to must-see spots for when friends and family visit, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be explored in our area.
Join me monthly for “Exploring Fairfax!” Together, we’ll uncover the best of our county, from special events to fantastic dining experiences and everything in between!
Aaron Nichols | www.nichols.realestate | [email protected] | @itsaaronnichols | 703-915-9852 | 1320 Old Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Cards, comics, vintage memorabilia… and more!
As recently seen on the PBS show, If You Lived Here… Collector’s World, located in Annandale, is the largest specialty collectibles store in the Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia area. With more than 6,000 square feet, this retail store caters to many different types of collectors.
The owners are on a buying spree and looking to purchase your collection!
Cleaning out the attic, garage or basement? Downsizing? Preparing to move or re-model? No collection is too big or too small.
Bring your items to the pros at Collector’s World for a same day appraisal and on the spot offer. Don’t miss your chance to cash in on your treasures, clear out some space and stop overspending on that storage unit!
Appointments are filling up fast. We offer house calls for extensive collections and special circumstances.
Contact Collector’s World at 571-386-7099 or email [email protected] for more information.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Address: 43220 Greeley Square
Neighborhood: Brambleton
Type: 3 BR, 3 (+1 half) BA single-family detached — 4,644 sq. ft.
Listed: $1,159,189
Noteworthy: Elevated look. Prep Pantry. Dream Gourmet Kitchen.
When entering this home featuring the Delano floorplan, you’ll find a timeless contemporary design.
Natural materials and gorgeous wood cabinets throughout the home provide a cozy and elevated look. This home offers a luxe and tailored feel that you’ll never be tired of. Highlights include:
- Partial screened porch and deck with trex decking.
- Hardwood stairs.
- Utility sink in laundry.
- Gas fireplace in great room.
- Upgraded cabinets with chimney hood.
- Designer island.
- Prep pantry.
- Granite counters in kitchen and prep pantry.
- Stainless steel appliances with French door fridge.
- EVP on main level, LL rec room and bedroom level loft and hall.
- Upgraded tile in all full baths.
*Video is of the Delano Model Home
Listed by:
Eric Hansen
[email protected]
(703) 896-0717
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
When it comes to sports that you can play for decades, ice hockey is a surprise contender.
“Unlike running, ice skating is very gentle on your knees,” John Dubeck points out. John has been a passionate hockey player for more than 50 years. “It’s a great way to exercise your legs and maintain your balance,” he says. “And it’s an ideal way to get cardio exercise while your focus is on playing well instead of counting the minutes you’ve been running. You’re typically going fast in two-minute bursts, so you’re also improving your anerobic metabolism.”
Since retiring, he plays twice a week at the popular GeriHatricks senior hockey club in West Laurel, Maryland. Currently in Arlington, John and his wife Susan Hotine are planning a move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, in Tysons later this year.
“The Mather seems to offer more than other senior living residences we looked at,” says John. “It feels like we’re essentially moving into a place that’s a high-end hotel.” He adds that they are ready to simplify, and like the idea of no longer worrying about leaking roofs and broken water pipes. “Plus, I’m looking forward to moving into a new community with people who are also new there. That appeals to me.”
John began playing hockey at Cornell University in the late 1960s. He says, “That was during the years that Cornell won the NCAA hockey championship, so everyone on campus played intramural hockey — fraternities, clubs, even the student newspaper had a hockey team. The fact that I already knew how to skate gave me a tremendous advantage.” He quickly caught the hockey bug and, after graduating, has played in several different leagues over the years.
“I used to play wing, but as I got older, I moved to defense,” he says. “When I started playing with the GeriHatricks after I retired, I was one of the younger players, so I was immediately told I was a center.” GeriHatricks games are no-check — meaning little or minimal contact — so injuries are few. Their pick-up games last about two hours. “The range of talent there is extraordinary,” says John.
Needless to say, John strongly recommends hockey as a pastime that ages well. A study in the Journal of Sports Science backs him up, showing that physically active men aged 35 and better who regularly play ice hockey are healthier than those who don’t play. They have significantly lower rates of hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes.
And there is a mental health benefit to hockey as well: John points out that attention and calculation are needed throughout the game. “It’s a moving geometry game; you’re always figuring angles because you can play off the boards, and all players are in motion,” he says.
John will continue to play hockey and pursue other interests after his move to Tysons. “The Mather is close enough to where we are now that we don’t have to change our lifestyle. We can still jump on the Metro to see the Caps play,” he says.
The Mather, opening in early 2024 in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
When Robert E. Simon first founded Reston nearly 60 years ago, he envisioned a community that would stress quality of life and allow its residents to live, work, and play in their own community, with common grounds and scenic beauty shared equally.
Today, Reston has grown to be one of the most well-known and respected communities in the region, and the views of Simon’s guiding principles remain.
The work to keep that valued balance between “live, work and play” falls to Reston Association and its Board of Directors, and more than ever, those Directors play a key role in ensuring Reston maintains its character as a community and its commitment to housing, open space and community amenities. If you’ve ever considered leading the way in Reston’s vision for the future, I urge you to consider running for a seat on the Board of Reston Association.
Reston Association’s Board of Directors help guide the policies and procedures for the Association and help to maintain the 50+ miles of paths and trails, the recreational programs and amenities, the facilities and events that RA oversees each year. The RA Board helps develop the Association’s annual budget and looks at capital projects throughout our community.
What’s more, the RA Board of Directors are the ones who help ensure Reston remains a community that is sustainable, inclusive and resilient.
If you value Reston’s history and want to ensure its place in the future, I urge you to consider running for a seat on the Reston Association Board of Directors.
Candidate and eligibility information, as well as application materials, can be found online at reston.org/board-of-directors-election.
A Candidate Information Session will be held Tuesday, January 16. All candidate submissions are due by Friday, January 26 at 5 p.m. Visit our website to learn more.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
New Year’s resolutions — they’re a mixed bag, right? Some folks swear by them, others cringe at the thought. Me? Well, I tend to lean towards calling them goals and sneaking them in under that label. But hey, regardless of what you call them, I’ve got some pointers to help make this year a standout.
Staying Fit and Healthy
Fairfax and Arlington Counties are a goldmine for keeping active. Take Sharmane, for instance — she’s the marathon aficionado who knows all the top-notch trails like Four Mile Run, W&OD, Cross County Trail, Fountainhead Regional, and of course Burke Lake Trail. Then there’s Laura, the former college athlete diving into group fitness. Here’s the scoop on those classes: not only do you sweat it out, but you might just meet some cool new pals. Plus, the simple act of meeting a friend there can get you out of bed and committed to your fitness journey. F45, Orange Theory, Boxing, Yoga, Pure Barre, Solid Core — you name it, there’s a class for it. So, experiment until you find your fitness soulmate!
Building Relationships
Let’s face it, we’ve all realized by now how much we need human connections. Put some effort into nurturing those bonds — whether it’s with your partner, friends, family, or even work buddies. Fairfax County is buzzing with things to do.
Mix it up a bit! Skip the usual dinner and catch up with a friend over a coffee while strolling around True Foods or Burke Lake Park. Or gather the gang for a fun round of mini-golf at Perch Putt or Tyson’s Bowlero. And hey, why not lace up those skates and head to Reston Town Centre or Skate N’ Fun Zone for a spin? It’s all about stepping out of your comfort zone to create those memorable moments.
Family Adventures
As a mom juggling three kiddos, I get the struggle of breaking the routine. Those after-school activities and playdates can make “date nights” sound like a fairy tale from another lifetime.
But guess what? They don’t have to be! Explore new playgrounds as a family — my bunch absolutely loves the skating park at Van Dyck Park where my twins go wild while the older ones kick a soccer ball around. Trust me, the playgrounds these days are way cooler than what we had growing up! And don’t forget to try out some creative outlets like Muse Paintbar or Board & Brush for a DIY session. Wrap it up with a scrumptious brunch at Ted’s Bulletin or dinner at Hamrocks.
However you decide to roll with this year, here’s wishing you heaps of health, prosperity, and loads of joy. Cheers to an incredible New Year!
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By John V. Berry, Esq
Our lawyers defend government contractors (private employees that work for government contractors) in debarment cases before federal agencies like the Department of Defense and others.
What is a Debarment?
Debarments are government actions taken against government contractors related to conduct. It is the government’s duty to protect itself from alleged fraud, waste, and abuse by ensuring that it avoids doing business with non-responsible contractors. Debarments can last a period of years. Suspensions result in temporary contractor ineligibility to work on government contracts. Suspensions and debarments are not for the purpose of punishing a government contractor but to protect the public.
Effect of Debarments and Suspensions
Debarments and suspensions have a major impact on individual government contractors. These can include removal from a government contract (and potential termination from employment) and potential security clearance issues. Government contractors that are debarred or suspended are not eligible to work on government contracts, unless a compelling reason exists, which can be a very high bar to meet. The government takes a straightforward approach to debarment cases and provides a fair appeals process.
Typical Reasons for Debarment (of Suspension of Eligibility)
The most common reasons for debarment or suspension include:
- Criminal Convictions or Pending Charges
- Civil Judgments and/or Liens
- Evidence of Crimes
- Specific Misconduct (e.g. time and attendance mischarging)
Debarment/Suspension Process
At the start of the disbarment process, the government will issue a show cause letter requiring a government contractor to demonstrate why they should not be suspended or debarred. These proceedings are completed relatively quickly, and individual government contractors must respond in order to avoid a negative outcome.
The government will generally provide a show cause letter to the individual and an initial chance to respond to the allegations, along with a memorandum in support of the proposed debarment. If the case proceeds, the individual contractor will have to respond to a notice of proposed debarment from the government.
Responding to Debarments
In responding to a notice of proposed debarment, it is important to fully address all allegations of misconduct or impropriety, and hire a debarment lawyer to assist them. We often find it helpful to submit letters of support on behalf of the individual, awards, commendations and other materials which demonstrate the character and integrity of the individual.
Additionally, cooperation in related investigations, completion of ethics training in a relevant area, acceptance of responsibility and other mitigating arguments should be made to the Debarring Official. These may help to convince the government that debarment is not needed or that mitigation to some other penalty is appropriate.
Following the response period, a decision will be rendered by the Debarring Official. They can uphold, mitigate, or terminate the debarment. Further, if a negative finding is upheld, there is sometimes the ability to seek reconsideration of a negative debarment finding. The process can involve contacting the Debarring Official with new or other evidence and seeking to reduce the debarment.
It is important to have legal representation in this process. If a negative finding is reached, leaving the person debarred from government contracts, that finding will be placed in the debarment database, known as the System for Award Management (SAM).
Contact Us
If you are in need of legal representation in a proposed debarment or debarment appeal please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Address: 43041 Greeley Square
Neighborhood: Brambleton at Birchwood
Type: 3 BR, 3 BA courtyard — single level — 2,500 sq. ft.
Listed: $859,990
Noteworthy: Single Level Living for 55+ Active Adults
When entering the Aurora Home, you’ll find a timeless transitional design — 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, loft space. Private study. Full brick front. Patio. Upgraded cabinets in kitchen and full baths. Stainless appliances with gas cooktop, wall oven, and stainless-steel chimney hood. Quartz countertops in the kitchen, primary, and a hall bath. 7” plank hardwood flooring on the main level. Utility sink in laundry. Upgrade tile in primary suite and hall bath.
Listed by:
Eric Hansen
[email protected]
(703) 896-0717
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
When you start your workday, do you want to walk through the doors and enter an environment where talents are nurtured, passions are pursued, and possibilities abound? In Mather’s newest venture in Tysons, Virginia, all of this is a part of an award-winning culture within their luxury community called The Mather.
The highest level of hospitality imbues The Mather’s elegant amenity spaces, thoughtfully curated food and beverage offerings, and innovative model of next-level service.
A Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, The Mather stands ready to begin welcoming residents in early 2024, and is well underway with recruiting top talent who share a passion for creating an atmosphere that transcends the ordinary. That stems from the unique values of its parent organization — inclusive, resilient, bold, and impactful — and its vision to change the way society views aging. Mather, an 80+ year-old not-for-profit organization, has a history of retaining dedicated team members for years, by helping them learn new skills, develop their careers, and eliminate barriers to personal happiness and fulfillment.
“My own job search was focused on a position where I could be exposed to different challenges as part of a forward-thinking and passionate group of professionals,” says Okyay Nalcaoglu, who joined The Mather in October 2023 as director of accounting. “I was seeking an employer with a futuristic vision that allows me to explore new initiatives and solutions. By the end of my first interview, it was clear to me that The Mather offers that autonomy and flexibility, within a strong and supportive framework.”
Raj Radke, vice president and general manager of The Mather, explains, “Our mission of creating Ways to Age Well extends to all team members. We support their personal well-being with a positive and supportive culture, valuable on-the-job perks, opportunities to learn and advance, and, of course, a competitive benefits package.” Highlights of that benefits package include:
- a generous paid time off program
- excellent medical and dental benefits
- tuition reimbursement
- and even a yearly reimbursement for self-care items and experiences
Benefits commence on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. On-site perks include complimentary use of the community’s fitness center and pool, free parking, and a free meal.
Add to those benefits the pleasure of working in a beautiful setting — The Mather has been recognized with several design awards even before opening its doors, including the 2023 Grand Aurora Award for Best On the Boards Community and Award of Merit top honors in the 2023 Gold Nugget Awards competition for Best Senior Housing Community — On the Boards, which honors architectural design and planning excellence.
Mather, with three other senior living communities in Illinois and Arizona, has a growing list of workplace and wellness awards, including being certified as a Great Place to Work, and receiving a Nation’s Best and Brightest in Wellness Award from the National Association for Business Resources for five years in a row, for promoting employee well-being, worksite health, and wellness.
Located on Westpark Drive near Tysons Galleria, The Mather offers luxury of a different kind. Apartment homes ranging in size up to 3,300 square feet are equipped with innovative smart-home technology; amenity-rich community spaces include a fitness center featuring an exercise studio and large indoor pool; multiple restaurants, a bar, outdoor event terraces with catering opportunities; a spa offering full services — including a Himalayan salt wall; and three acres of green space. Services include reception and concierge services, valet parking, shuttle and driver services, resident engagement and programming, housekeeping, and maintenance.
The Mather is hiring now for an array of positions to provide hospitality and exceptional service in these areas; it ultimately will have a total of more than 100 full- and part-time team members — all focused on creating unique opportunities and meaningful moments for residents, colleagues, and guests.
“We’re seeking team members from high-end hotels and resorts who share our dedication to making a difference and creating unique luxury experiences,” says Raj. “We are building a team that will push the envelope in curating elevated and enhanced engagements that embrace a vibrant culture for residents and team members alike.”
If you’re interested in joining the team at The Mather, or know someone who is, browse the open positions at themathertysons.com/jobs.
The Mather is hosting a hiring event on Wednesday, January 10 in its Information & Design Centre at 7901 Jones Branch Drive in McLean, on the Lobby Level. Interested applicants are welcome to drop in any time that day between 3-7 p.m. They are encouraged to bring a resume and be ready to interview.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Christmas is only days away and soon the clock ticks down to bid farewell to 2023.
Here are a few of our NYE top picks definitely guaranteed to make memories and set 2024 for a year of embracing where you are in life whatever that season is from family-friendly festivities to exclusive adult soirées, Live Fairfax has you covered.
Family Friendly
Shipgarten’s Kid’s Noon-Years Eve Party (Shipgarten)
Enjoy a live performance and meet Elsa, Anna, and Spider-man. Ballon drop, moon bounces, party favors, face painting, and a sparkling apple cider toast, it’s a celebration you don’t want to miss.
Children’s Science Center New Year’s Eve Around the World (Fair Oaks Mall)
The Lab with a Ball Drop at “Midnight,” a sparkling cider toast, and engaging activities like engineering Firework Pinwheels, crafting Celebration Slime, and making personalized 2024 Headbands for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve!
New Year’s Eve Bash at Dave and Buster’s (Springfield & Fairfax)
Enjoy a festive celebration on Sunday, December 31 with endless fun, food, and games, including admission with a $20 Power Card for unlimited video game play!
Falls Church NYE Watch Night (multiple locations in City of Falls Church)
Join in for a free, fun, and family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in the City of Falls Church from 7 p.m. to midnight.
Adults Only
80’s NYE Party with the Legwarmers (State Theater)
Bidding farewell to 2023 with an exciting party! Get ready for the return of the most popular New Year’s celebration featuring Washington D.C.’s premier 80’s tribute band. Get ready to groove into the New Year!
NYE at The Winery at Bull Run (Winery at Bull Run)
Experience an after-hours NYE bash on Sunday, December 31, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., the Tasting Room turns into a dance floor. Delight in our DJ’s tunes, savor exquisite wines and cider, and relish delectable food and desserts available for purchase from the Paella & Tapas Place.
Ja Rule & Ashanti New Year’s Eve (The St. James)
Experience an unforgettable New Year’s Eve concert journey through Ja Rule and Ashanti’s iconic careers.
Cocktails Around The World (Inca Social Vienna)
Enjoy a global cocktail journey with exotic drinks crafted by their talented mixologists while dancing to the hottest beats! It will be an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration!
However, you decide to welcome the New Year may it be filled with lasting memories and mark the perfect start to 2024. Embrace the changes ahead and create unforgettable moments that will stand the test of time.
Cheers to new beginnings and treasured memories!
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Finding a creative outlet that suits you, and then devoting time and thought to that outlet, has wonderful effects on your mood, your brain, and your overall well-being. “Creativity doesn’t have to be painting or sculpting; you can be creative in starting or running a business or nonprofit,” says author Sara Fitzgerald. “For me, I spend a lot of time writing, and I find it very satisfying.”
Sara is a multitalented writer who has applied her talents to crafting everything from satirical song lyrics to nuanced biographies. A resident of northern Virginia for nearly 50 years, she is preparing to move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, in Tysons in early 2024.
Early in her career, Sara was an editor and new media developer for The Washington Post, then held positions focused on internet policy making and promoting technology in education. While she continued to write during those years (including publishing two romance novels), she says retirement offers the time and concentration she needs to devote herself to it.
“There’s something about the way writing stimulates my mind — there’s a kind of high,” says Sara. Since retirement, she’s been focused on historical fiction and biographies of little-known women. She’s in the process of publishing a biography of Emily Hale, the secret love of poet T.S. Eliot. (You can browse all her published works on her website at sarafitzgerald.com.)
However, Sara’s writing isn’t limited to books: “I enjoy rhyming lyrics — I’ve written them for the Hexagon Club’s annual satirical revue in D.C. for years,” she says.
And, after taking a brief playwriting class at the Creative Cauldron theater in Falls Church, she wrote a script for a very personal cabaret-style show, Comfort Songs, which was performed in July 2023 at the Creative Cauldron. She explains, “During the early days of the pandemic, I was inspired by Yo-Yo Ma, who put out a call for ‘songs of comfort’ and who posted videos of himself playing the cello. I began posting my own videos; I used my mobile phone to record daily videos of myself playing the piano — one song a day for nearly 90 days.” In her show, Sara described the project and the background of the songs she selected, and “some talented friends” performed about 15 of them. “I wanted it to be a healing experience; I think it worked well,” she says.
Sara is looking forward to her next chapter at The Mather. “What’s reassuring to me about my decision to move to The Mather was that nine or ten households of my friends have also decided to move there,” she says. “I then learned about friends of friends moving there — including the two neighbors on either side of my future apartment home!”
While she hopes to enjoy more time to regularly practice piano in her apartment home at The Mather as she admires the views from floor-to-ceiling windows, Sara is simultaneously excited about the community’s amenities, including an indoor pool, and looks forward to meeting new people. “I figure I’ll be able to sit down with any of my neighbors and find interesting people whom I would like to know,” she says.
The Mather, projected to open in Tysons, VA, in early 2024 for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
A recent client with an upscale townhome was ready to make changes to their nearly 20-year-old home. Dark-cherry finishes and a kitchen layout had started to date, and they had big ideas to improve other areas of the home. The basement entertainment area, a couple hall baths and all new flooring throughout were on the wish list.
Here’s an inside look into how we harmoniously transformed these spaces to brighten the townhouse just in time for the holidays!
Transform Tradition into Trend
The first step of the kitchen transformation was the removal of several non-load-bearing columns and half-walls that enclosed the space. This eliminated barriers with adjacent rooms, allowed more light in, and shed the kitchen’s overly traditional aesthetic.
Hello, open concept!
The revamped kitchen features expansive custom cabinetry that exudes a bright and airy feeling, optimizing every inch of the footprint to increase storage and countertop space. Offering seating for at least four, a large island takes center stage while anchoring and defining the room.
Complemented by white oak accents (including a hanging ladder), the kitchen offers warm and natural textures, establishing a seamless connection with the furnishings in the surrounding dining and living rooms.
To complete the kitchen transformation, lighter-colored hardwood flooring graces the entire main level, creating a cohesive look that pulls all the elements together.
Bringing up the Basement
Just one level below the kitchen remodel, we brought the basement into the project. Several updates were made, including revamping an existing small full bath and adding a built-in bar area and faux beams to the tray ceiling.
A previously unused corner became a striking entertaining focal point with bar cabinetry, floating shelves, and a full-sized wine refrigerator. The most eye-catching feature, a full-height natural stone backsplash, brings a touch of luxury and personality to the space.
On the opposite side of the room, we removed the traditional white trim around the existing fireplace and added stone stacked to the ceiling with an eye-popping custom wood mantle creating an additional architectural feature and a perfect spot to stay cozy in the winter months.
A Splash of Bath
Last, but not least, an unrenovated hall bath on the upper floor received a facelift with all new vanity and plumbing fixtures which bring pops of color and personality to the room — making it a perfect teen’s retreat.
Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution or a well-deserved holiday gift to yourself, consider this story your inspiration to make that home project you’ve been dreaming of a reality!
Get in touch with us today to start the conversation!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Embarking on the holiday season demands more than just festive cheer — it calls for a dash of magic in our style survival. Join me as we meet up with sometimes referred to the “Style Therapist” by her clients, Katie with Style by Valentine at the amazing Tyson’s Corner Nordstrom.
As Katie shares insight on navigating the holiday chaos in style. As we dive into the festivities, Nordstrom emerges as our trusted companion, offering a seamless style experience with budget convenience. As women from all walks of life face the thieves of season from time constraints, packed schedules, family stress, and the inevitable lack of sleep, which could result in dark circles, frumpiness, and a general sense of discomfort that hinders us from fully enjoying the season’s moments.
Fear not, as our gift to you is a Style Survival Guide Clip — a toolkit of several practical strategies applicable to all, regardless of budget, size, age, or style preferences.
Tailored insights for moms, families, and general professionals ensure everyone can embrace the holiday spirit and look great doing so. From avoiding winging it to cleverly remixing your wardrobe with a single statement piece, strategically using color, texture, and accessories, to embracing cozy monochromes and metallics for that chic festive vibe — we’ve got you covered.
Katie definitely adds a few final tips on value, quality, and staying true to yourself, this video encourages a thoughtful and authentic approach to holiday style.
Thank you so much for tuning in to our style survival video! I hope these tips bring a touch of magic to your holiday season. As you navigate the festivities, may your days be filled with warmth, joy, and the creation of beautiful memories.
Wishing you an amazing Christmas season where every moment is wrapped in happiness. Here’s to embracing the magic of the holidays and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Merry Christmas!
Collaboration with Style By Valentine
Stylebyvalentine.com
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Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
