Cincinnati Idea Book November 2023

EXCEPTIONAL HOMES & GARDENS 

QUARTZ VS QUARTZITE | HOLIDAY TABLE TIPS | COZY BEDROOMS 

GREATER CINCINNATI | NOVEMBER 2023 | HOUSETRENDS.COM

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CONTENTS 

NOVEMBER 2023 • GREATER CINCINNATI 

8 housetrends.com 

19

Your Custom 

Sanctuary Awaits 

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IBCI1123.010

CONTENTS 

NOVEMBER 2023 • GREATER CINCINNATI 

FEATURES 

DEPARTMENTS 

BEDROOMS 

GUEST LIST 

Ingredients for creating a cozy space 

for visiting friends and family 

19 

INSPIRED 

IDEAS 

Splurge-worthy gifts 

14 

MATERIALS 

QUARTZ OR QUARTZITE? 

Answering questions about these similarsounding 

countertop materials 

29 

AD 

INDEX 

Local home and garden pros 

64 

GATHERING 

SETTING THE PERFECT 

HOLIDAY TABLE 

Add a personal touch to your 

dinner stage 

41 

CALENDAR 

OF EVENTS 

Holiday happenings 

64 

PAINT 

SEVEN HUES FOR A 

WINTER PALETTE 

Go cool and bright or warm and muted 

48 

INTERIOR DESIGN 

IDEAS AND INSPIRATION 

Area experts share favorite 

pieces of advice 

53 

ON THE COVER 

This is the season for sharing 

stories around a dining 

table. See how you can 

put a personal touch on 

your table and make the 

event even more festive 

beginning on page 41 

10 housetrends.com

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WELCOME LETTER 

Instead of asking, what if I need 

this someday, ask, what if someone 

else, today, needs it more? 

—Julia Ubbenga, blogger, richinwhatmatters.com 

It’s the time of year when we fill our houses up with food, gifts, family and 

guests. My extended family will gather at my home this December. Many 

will be staying at nearby hotels, but I’ve already planned beds, sheets, 

blankets and pillows for the half dozen or so staying with us. 

While going through my closets, it became obvious that, even with 

company in mind, I have way more bedding than I need. Plus, I have an 

extra-long twin bed and frame from my son’s college days going unused. 

Yes, a couple of considerations race to mind: “I might need these 

someday,” and “I don’t feel like dealing with this right now.” But if I push past 

those nagging thoughts, I know what needs to be done—and it’s a win-win 

situation. There are fantastic organizations that will take my unused home 

goods and furniture and repurpose them for individuals in need. And my 

closets, basement, and even my life feel a bit less chaotic. 

If you need ideas on where to donate, here are a couple favorites: 

• New Life Furniture Bank collects gently used furniture and household 

items. They deliver and set-up an entire household of furnishings to families 

overcoming homelessness, domestic abuse, extreme poverty, and other 

devastating circumstances. Check out their website for acceptable donations. 

Note: Currently they accept clean, gently used mattresses and box springs. 

nlfurniture.org 

• ReStore accepts furniture and home goods as well, but also working 

appliances and building materials. These are sold to the public 

providing income to carry out Habitat for Humanity’s mission 

to build homes, communities, and hope. There are multiple locations 

in Greater Cincinnati. Visit their website for acceptable donations. 

habitatcincinnati.org 

Karen Bradner 

EDITOR 

Associate Publishers 

Linda Bacher and Florence Murphy 

Sales Associate Evelyn Yaus 

Editor Karen Bradner 

Creative Director Gina Miller 

Quality Control Specialist 

Heather Fox 

Contributing Writer 

Susan Zingraf 

Contributing Photographers 

Daniel Feldkamp, William Manning 

Ross Van Pelt, Todd Yarrington 

This holiday season, may you surround yourself with family and perhaps 

take pleasure in contributing to another family’s hope, dignity and joy. 

Thanks for reading. 

CORPORATE 

Corporate Managing Partners 

Robert J. Slattery, Kevin Slattery 

Print Services 

Dawn Deems 

Production Manager 

Connie Kimsey 

Advertising Information 

513-703-6103 

linda.bacher@housetrends.com 

Editorial Inquiries 

publishers@housetrends.com 

Housetrends magazine is published by 

Buzz Publications, LLC 

4866 Cooper Rd., Suite 202 

Cincinnati, OH 45242 

Robert J. Slattery, 

President and CEO, Buzz Publications, LLC. 

© 2023 Buzz Publications, LLC. Housetrends magazine is published and produced 

by Buzz Publications. All rights reserved. All logos and trademarks are the properties 

of their respective owners. We assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, 

omissions or any inconsistency herein. Housetrends makes no warranties, 

representations or endorsements regarding any of the services and/or the 

advertisers, builders, designers or any third parties appearing in the magazine. 

No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any 

means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage or 

retrieval system, without the written permission of Buzz Publications, LLC except where prohibited by 

law. Buzz Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit, alter, or omit any advertiser. 

12 housetrends.com

Organization 

inspired by you 

Custom Closets • Garage Cabinets • Home Offices • Pantries • Laundries 

Wall Beds • Wall Units • Hobby Rooms • Garage Flooring • and More… 

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INSPIRED IDEAS 

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8 

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14 housetrends.com

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Ingredients for creating a cozy bedroom 

for visiting friends and family 

All of us who have had houseguests know that it can 

be a bit stressful preparing for their stay. We need to 

clean the house, wash their sheets, stock the fridge 

and plan meals that are a step above our typical fare. 

While there is defi nitely work to be done, you might 

consider adding a bit of play to the prep by creating 

a guest room that refl ects your personality with tidbits 

placed specifi cally with your guests’ needs and comfort 

in mind. Take it up even another notch by adding a few 

frivolous surprises. Here are some ideas to make your 

guests feel especially welcome. ➻ 

housetrends idea book 2023 19 

Hadley King Bed and Woody Chest by 

Mr. and Mrs. Howard for Sherrill Furniture 

housetrends idea book 2023 19

Atlantic Side Table and Monroe King Bed by Mr. and Mrs. Howard for Sherrill Furniture 

Build off the basics 

A comfortable bed is key. Choose a quality mattress. Even if you don’t have company all that 

often, it is still a good investment. When your home is guest-free and family members are feeling 

under the weather, they can retreat to a private, comfy space and let their partner or sibling 

sleep undisturbed. 

Soft bedding and a variety of blankets let guests adjust to their own comfortable temperature. 

Provide plenty of pillows so they can build their own head base. Consider allergen barrier 

pillows. 

Designing dreamland 

A guest room should feel welcoming but not overstuffed. While a large bed is nice, it shouldn’t 

compromise the floor space. No one wants to bang their shins on the bed frame trying to 

maneuver around the room. Tables with lamps should be placed on either side of the bed. If 

possible, place the bed so that electrical outlets for phones, iPads, or other tech pieces are easily 

accessible. 

A comfortable chair with a throw is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a bit of downtime. A 

small dresser or armoire is all that is needed to let guests unpack and feel like they are settling 

in for a while. Although you might include a luggage stand should guests prefer to skip unpacking. 

Closets, if available, or bottom drawers are prime locations for extra pillows and blankets 

so that guests don’t have to seek you out and request them at bedtime. 

20 housetrends.com

Avery Two Door Nightstand by Lillian August 

Tuscan King Bed by Mr. and Mrs. Howard for Sherrill Furniture 


Austin Single Dresser and Urban Park King Upholstered Bed from Hickory White 

22 housetrends.com

Familiar artwork 

Consider hanging photos of family gatherings or vacations with friends on the walls or place them 

on end tables. Your guests might be thrilled to spot themselves in a few of the framed photos found 

throughout their room. 

Key amenities 

The bedroom should have an alarm clock, paper pencils, and maybe a sewing kit and safety pins. A sound 

machine, or box fan, can help mask noise both inside and outside the home. A nightlight will provide 

just enough light to safely guide guests from their bedroom to the closest bathroom. A covered pitcher 

of water with glasses, or water bottles are easy touches. 

Bathroom supplies 

It’s a good idea to have your guest bath stocked with a few essentials, in case they were overlooked when 

packing. Arrange personal care items in a basket or fun container. Including soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, 

shampoo, conditioner, lotion, cotton swabs, disposable razors, bandages, and the like will be a 

relief for guests who don’t want to inconvenience you or run to the store themselves. 

A box of tissues in plain sight and a stack of towels are always appropriate. Make sure there are extra 

rolls of toilet paper. And you can’t go wrong having a blow dryer handy. ➻ 

housetrends idea book 2023 23 

Bedroom by Ashford Homes with Pella windows. Photo by Connie Kimsey 


Special touches 

If you plan to include a television, select 

a model that is easy to operate. If multiple 

remotes can’t be avoided, mark the 

important keys with bright fingernail 

polish, or type up a simple list of stepby-step 

instructions. Also, think about 

leaving a stack of books in a variety of 

genres for your guests to enjoy—and 

possibly take home with them. A fulllength 

mirror is a great perk, especially 

if your guests are in town for a special 

occasion and they might want to check 

their look. And finding a luxurious robe 

in the closet will make your guests feel 

like they have arrived! 

The extra mile 

Make it personal by adding a few of 

your guests’ favorite things. Fresh flowers, 

a box of chocolates, a current issue 

of their favorite magazine, candles, salt 

scrubs, locally made food or wine— 

whatever you include will be an unexpected 

treat. 

Having—or being—a guest is never 

totally easy. But these extra preparations 

will tell your guests they are welcome. 

Enjoy your company and don’t 

underestimate the power of a mint on 

their pillow. 

RESOURCES 

Ashford Homes 

Best Furniture Gallery 

Hoffman & Albers Interiors 

ID Cincinnati Furniture & Interior Design 

Studio J 

hickorywhite.com 

lillianaugust.hickorywhite.com 

mrandmrshoward.sherrillfurniture.com 

24 housetrends.com

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QUARTZ OR QUARTZITE? 

We’re answering questions about these similar-sounding countertop materials 

What is the primary difference 

between the two materials? 

Quartz is an engineered stone made from 

ground silica which is bound together with 

polymers, resins and pigments. This material 

is molded and baked into slabs in a 

factory setting. 

Quartzite is a natural stone found beneath 

the surface of the earth. It is formed when 

sandstone containing a high percentage of 

quartz is altered by pressure and temperature. 

This material is then mined and cut 

into slabs. 

➻ 

Cambria USA Woodcroft (left) and 

Brittanicca Gold Warm (right) 


Which is lower maintenance? 

Quartz is extremely durable. It has 

a non-porous surface that does not 

need to be sealed. This surface acts as 

a barrier against staining and bacteria. 

Use cutting boards when you chop on 

quartz, otherwise you might etch the 

surface. Then acids in food may erode 

the resins to result in dull white spots. 

Quartzite is slightly harder and more 

scratch-resistant than quartz, but its 

porous surface will absorb stains and 

bacteria if not sealed before installation 

and on an annual or semi-annual basis. 

Cutting gently with knives directly on 

a quartzite countertop will not cause 

etching. 

Which can take the heat? 

The resin in quartz melts at around 

300 degrees, so avoid placing hot pans 

directly on these countertops as it may 

damage the resin and leave a mark or 

divot. 

Quartzite can handle much higher heat 

including hot pans placed directly on its 

surface, but having said that, it’s always 

a good idea to use a pad or trivet. ➻ 

1 Fantasy Brown Leather quartzite; 

Contractor: J.S. Brown & Company; 

Fabricator: Konkus, Photo by Todd 

Yarrington 2 Caesarstone Alpine Mist 

quartz from Cincinnati StoneWorks; 

Builder: Michaelson Homes, Photo by 

William Manning Photography 3 Cambria 

USA Skara Brae from Lumberman’s by 

Neal’s Design and Remodel; Designer: 

Christina Temple, Project Consultant: 

Frank Kuhlmeier, Photo by Ross Van Pelt 1 

30 housetrends.com

2 

3 


32 housetrends.com

How do you clean each of them? 

Though quartz will resist permanent staining when exposed to liquids like wine, 

vinegar, tea or juice from fruits and vegetables, it’s important to wipe up spills immediately 

with mild dishwashing detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners, 

or highly acidic or alkaline solutions, as those chemicals can disintegrate the bonds 

between quartz and resin. Check with your installer for specific suggestions regarding 

appropriate cleaning methods. Should a deeper cleaning be necessary, you can use a 

stone and quartz cleaner as often as once a week. 

Since quartzite is a porous stone, it needs to be sealed. Depending on the sealing 

product selected, this may need to be done as often as yearly, but some sealants last 

as long as 15 years. 

“Be careful when selecting a sealer—make sure it is a good quality sealant meant 

for stone,” says Kaelyn Van Camp, marketing manager for Stone Mart. Some trusted 

brands Stone Mart carries include MORE Surface Care and Supreme Surface. “Your 

fabricator may offer to apply the sealant if you prefer,” Van Camp says, “But most of 

them are easy enough to apply if you read and follow the product’s directions.” ➻ 

Cambria USA Brittanicca 

Photo by Neighbourhood Creative 


Which looks more natural? 

Because quartz is bound by a resin, it can sometimes look too manufactured to some. 

Quartzite has the slightly coarse texture of sandstone giving it a more organic feel. It is 

also an appealing choice to environmentally conscious consumers because it is a totally 

natural product. 

Which offers more colors or patterns? 

Because it is created in a factory setting, quartz can be altered with regard to color 

and pattern. Added pigments can yield white, cream, gray, brown, blue, or pink results. 

Patterns can be flecked, veined or solid. 

“There are so many different quartz colors and patterns, and its durability compared 

to quartzite and granite makes it our most used material for countertops,” says kitchen 

designer Lauren Donges from Neal’s Design-Remodel. 

Although you will most often find quartzite in shades of white or gray, occasionally 

iron oxide can give the stone a pinkish or reddish tint. The patterns are natural with 

veining that is different from slab to slab, and even within the same slab. 

“My personal favorite countertop to use on projects is quartzite. I think it has a much 

more natural movement and 3D appearance than quartz and granite, and each slab is 

so unique that it makes each project one-of-a-kind,” Donges says. 

Brown Latte quartzite from Stone Mart 

34 housetrends.com

Cambria USA Hermitage 

Which is more expensive? 

Quartz ranges from about $50 to $150 per square foot installed depending on the color, style, 

edges, fabrication and composition. 

“Not all quartz is created equal,” says Tyler Quinn, market representative for Cambria USA in 

Dayton and Cincinnati. “There is no regulatory factor defining the percentage of quartz mineral 

needed in a material to label it as quartz. That range can be anywhere from 30 to 90 percent. A 

higher quartz mineral content will perform better.” 

Quartzite ranges from $90 to $210 per square foot installed depending on the stone and 

type of finish, edge, and fabrication. 

It’s important to note that sometimes quartzite can be mislabeled. Be sure to buy from a 

company with a solid reputation. “You can’t always tell by looking at it,” says Don Engel, owner 

of Cincinnati StoneWorks. Engel and his team rely on the expertise of their long-standing vendors. 

“They’ve done their homework,” he says. ➻ 


Having said that, should a slab arrive that 

Engel says looks different than what he’s seen 

before, his team conducts an acid test. If a highly 

acidic liquid, like vinegar, etches the surface, 

it is not quartzite, but might be a calcium-based 

material such as marble. The two materials may 

look similar, but quartzite is the more durable 

of the two. 

Which is right for you? 

The answer depends on three main factors: 

1) How does the pattern, color, texture work in 

your space? 

2) How much maintenance (sealing) are you 

willing to do? 

3) How does the cost fit into your budget? 

Once you address the above issues, often the 

final few candidates will reveal themselves. 

Then it’s time to make the decision on your 

own or with the help of a partner, friend or 

kitchen designer. Good luck choosing between 

the two Q’s! 

Taj Mahal quartzite from Stone Mart 

Photo by Daniel Feldkamp 

36 housetrends.com

IBCI1123.004

Get Inspired 

This is where you need to be if you want to see incredible kitchens, 

outdoor spaces, landscapes, makeovers and decorating ideas. 

www.housetrends.com 

Get even more inspiration by following us on social media 

Getting serious about showers 

Ventilation tips

ASK THE EXPERT 

rea estate 

HOME TECH FOR YOUR HOLIDAY WISH LIST 

Smart home features have been making the news and gaining popularity for several years. WiFi-enabled outlets, thermostats, locks, doorbells, cameras and more 

are already being used by many homeowners for enhanced security and automation, and additional products are being added to the market all the time. Looking 

for some new or lesser-known home tech to fill out this year’s wish list or seeking unique gift ideas for others? Here are some of our favorite finds: 

1. SMART SHOWER HEAD – In the ultimate 

smart bathroom, you can even start the shower 

with your voice (or phone). Wall-mounted smart 

shower controllers work with Amazon Alexa, Apple 

HomeKit, and Google Assistant to let you turn on 

the water and set it to your preferred temperature 

with voice commands or via an app. 

2. AUTOMATED BLIND CONTROLLER – Don’t 

want to lift a finger to raise or lower your blinds 

and want to avoid replacing perfectly good window 

coverings with pricey custom automated ones? You 

can switch from a hand-pull system to motorized 

blind controls for your most commonly used blinds 

and window dressings with this simple home tech 

item upgrade and start controlling them with the 

click of a button! 

3. SMART GARAGE DOOR OPENER – Whether 

your garage serves as a storage area, a workshop, 

a party zone, or a place where you actually keep 

your car, there’s plenty of tech available to make it 

smarter. Smart garage door openers let you view 

the state of the door (closed or open, and for how 

long), and control it from your phone - even when 

you aren’t home. Some are even compatible with 

Amazon’s in-garage delivery service, “Key”, which 

can give you peace of mind if you’re worried about 

porch pirates. 

4. WHOLE-HOUSE FILTRATION SYSTEM – If 

you’re tired of having to filter all of your tap water 

through pitchers or other devices, consider a home 

water filtration or reverse osmosis system. This 

home tech item will make sure all water is clean, 

safe to drink, and tastes fresh. Even better? This is 

a feature that could be a selling point for future 

buyers if and when you sell your home. 

5. SMART LIGHTBULBS – Some of the earliest 

smart home accessories included outlets that 

enabled homeowners to turn on lamps through 

an app or using their voice. But what about ceiling 

fixtures and recessed lights? Try smart bulbs! You 

can turn them on and off at a distance and set 

schedules for them (a major plus for lowering your 

electric bill), and even change their color. 

6. SMART SMOKE DETECTORS – You should 

be replacing your smoke detectors every few 

years anyways. Why not replace them with a 

WiFi-enabled version? Not only will these smart 

detectors alert to the presence of both smoke 

and carbon monoxide, but they can also conduct 

regular tests automatically and send reminders via 

an app when the battery runs low. 

7. WIFI-OPERATED OUTDOOR PLUGS – Smart 

outlets for indoor use have been around and 

widely used for years, but now you can get outdoorrated 

versions! Perfect for holiday lights during the 

winter months and ponds/fountains in the warmer 

seasons, these plugs are weatherproof and allow 

you to control any outdoor electronics with your 

voice or phone. Plus, you can schedule them to turn 

on and off at the same time every day. 

8. DIGITAL SPRINKLER CONTROLLER – While 

this control system won’t drag the sprinkler out into 

the lawn and hook it up for you, it’s still an amazing 

addition to pre-installed irrigation systems. And 

the home tech hub allows you to monitor, control 

and save water all from a mobile app. You can even 

set it to adapt to weather conditions to avoid overwatering 

during rainy periods. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Ellie Kowalchik, a real estate agent with Keller Williams Pinnacle Group, leads Cincinnati’s top-ranked 

Move2Team. A multi-million dollar producer and company sales leader, she holds the advanced 

designations of Seller Representative Specialist, Certified Residential Specialist, as well as e-Pro with a focus on technology. 

She has also been named one of America’s Best Real Estate Agents by RealTrends for the past 6 years. 

Have real estate questions you’d like to see answered in a future edition of Ask the Expert? 

Give Ellie a call at (513) 616-2323 or email her at Ellie@Move2Team.com. 

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TIPS TO SET 

THE PERFECT 

holiday table 

We celebrate all sorts of traditions during the 

holidays. We honor our different customs, cultures, 

religions and generations of family members being 

together. But the one thing these gatherings usually 

have in common is a great meal. Sharing stories— 

old and new—with family and friends around a 

dining table is almost always at the center of the 

celebration. And putting a personal touch on the 

table makes the event even more festive. ➻ 


Start with a theme 

It might be a group of colors or cherished mementos, but if 

you start with a focus or theme in mind it will make your task 

easier. The choices might launch from your existing dining 

room décor, or holiday decorations found in nearby rooms. 

The foundation should be a classic, elegant or even whimsical 

tablecloth or runner. You can add texture and color via napkins, 

placemats and dinnerware. If you are creating a Hanukkah 

table, you might choose to focus on blue, but blending in 

touches of white, silver and gold adds a welcome bit of elegance. 

Use the good stuff 

Now is the time to get the stepstool out to reach the top 

shelf or open up your cabinet and bring out the china. 

This is the perfect time to use the fancy pieces—crystal, 

silver, chargers, and anything heirloom. 

If your family leans a bit more casual, simply select 

pieces that go with your theme. Maybe start with white 

dinnerware and add blue and silver accents. Or bring in 

touches of nature with pine branches, pinecones, and 

wooden pieces that add a touch of texture. 

Play up your personality 

Your table should reflect your 

style, but now is the time to push 

that idea to the max. Guests who 

might be accustomed to eating at 

your kitchen table, will appreciate 

and admire your efforts. Go crazy 

with candles, use all your flatware, 

add twinkle lights, incorporate a 

centerpiece that is a conversation 

starter—perhaps by including 

pieces that will jog memories and 

introduce slices of family history 

and launch story telling. 

42 housetrends.com

Stay centered 

While flowers are always appropriate, you don’t have to spend big bucks on the 

centerpiece. This element should illustrate your theme but reflect the mood you 

are trying to create. If it’s whimsical, line up a row of treasured toys, or even pieces 

from favorite games—like a scrabble board with holiday messages spelled out. Hang 

vintage ornaments from the chandelier or gather them in a glass bowl. If you are 

a talented baker, or know where one works, sometimes dessert can serve as the 

centerpiece—a stunning cake on a tall cake plate. 

While this will definitely add a bit of elegance to your holiday table, the goal is 

to not add stress, but rather have fun with the process. Plan your table days before 

guests arrive, so that you can spend your time preparing the feast. Then relax and 

enjoy the rewarding results of your efforts. 


SCAN THE QR CODE 

to see more before 

and after photos 

WE MAKE 

PAVERS AND 

NATURAL STONE 

look beautiful again 

OUR SERVICES: 

Paver Repair 

Cleaning 

and Sealing 

AFTER 

Restoration 

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BEFORE 

Tinting 

Call today to get a free estimate 

Columbus: 614-295-9661 

Cincinnati: 513-654-6198 

Dayton: 937-884-4105 

VISIT OUR WEBSITE 

www.perfectpaverco.com 

IBRG1123.005

For the same reason all major sports teams and universities do renovations during the offseason, 

the fall and winter are an excellent time to make renovations and additions to your 

patio. Here’s a couple reasons why you may choose the off-season to make repairs to your 

patio vs. the spring/summer. 

The patio won’t be usable during repairs. 

This will inconvenience you less during the 

fall/winter months. 

Columbus: 614-295-9661 

Cincinnati: 513-654-6198 

Dayton: 937-884-4105 

IBRG1123.005

DIFFERENT STYLES 

THE APPLIANCE EXPERTS 

To visit our showrooms, please call or 

go online to request an appointment. 

800.704.6313 

www.CustomDistributors.com 

IBRG1123.002

SAME UNRIVALED PERFORMANCE 

Empowered by design, defined 

by luxury, led by innovation 

The Masterpiece ® and Professional Collections tell two distinct design stories 

while providing every necessary ingredient required to personalize your 

home. Experience unparalleled innovation and performance across cooling, 

cooking, and dish care – now featuring connected kitchen appliances 

enabled with Home Connect ® . For additional details & savings opportunities, 

talk to an appliance professional at Custom Distributors today! 

Corporate Office & Showroom 

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Fairfield • OH 45014 

513.874.5444 

Dayton Showroom 

2040 S. Alex Road 

Dayton • OH 45449 

937.384.7804 

Columbus Showroom 

530 Lakeview Plaza Blvd., Ste. B 

Worthington • OH 43085 

614.796.2600 

IBRG1123.002

color trends 

7 PAINT COLORS FOR A 

winter palette 

Benjamin Moore’s mix of wintry paint 

colors reflect the season’s sparkle 

Content and photos courtesy of Benjamin Moore 

Collector’s Item AF-45 

What are winter colors? Cool, bright, warm, muted…winter 

colors are as sharp as shadows in the snow, or as soft as 

cashmere blankets. Explore our winter color palette—from 

off-whites to comforting charcoals to forest greens—and 

bring winter hues into your home for a look you’ll love all 

year-round. 

48 housetrends.com

Intrigue 1580 

This color draws you in and 

envelops you. A gray with deep 

green undertones, Intrigue 

1580 makes a statement. 

Midnight 2131-20 

Wrap yourself up in the balance 

and quietude of this enveloping 

charcoal gray with blue-green 

undertones. 

Winter Lake 2129-50 

Breathe coastal living into your home and banish 

winter doldrums forever with this refreshing midtone 

blue-gray. This soothing blue is the perfect 

partner for must-haves of winter décor like cedar 

garland, textured throws, and oversized candles. 


White Diamond OC-61 

This crisp, cool white paint color 

stands alone on walls or pairs 

effortlessly with a range of cooler 

colors. It is especially beloved 

for trim, moldings and doors. 

Collector’s Item AF-45 

Collector’s Item AF-45 brings 

the right amount of warmth 

to a space with its creamy pink 

tinged off-white hue. 

Hint of Violet 2114-60 

Create a lovely, luminous look 

with this cheery hue, which 

is a playful pairing of 

gray and lilac. 


White Diamond OC-61

Ashwood Moss 1484 

A deep graphite green suggestive of 

a dark, veiled forest, this paint color 

delivers a bold look on all four walls 

or as an accent wall in living rooms 

or dining rooms. It is also a favorite 

exterior paint color. 


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4434 MUHLHAUSER RD - 45011 

(513) 942-7625 

ALSO LOCATED IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN AND ROCHESTER, NY. 

IBRG1123.004

DESIGN 

inspiration 

Area experts share 

favorite pieces of advice 

When it comes to making design decisions for our 

homes, it’s often tough to see things objectively. 

Choices like paint colors, sofa fabrics or rug sizes 

might cause us to stall—and stew—for weeks, months 

and more. Sometimes it’s incredibly beneficial to get 

outside help. If you have a talented best friend, great. 

But usually, the easiest path to success is to rely on 

the advice of an interior designer or retailer who has 

solid experience. With that in mind, here are some 

tips from some of our favorite area professionals. ➻ 


Relax and take your time! Design is a process. Focus on the big, “anchor” pieces first 

and build your way outward. Trying to complete a room down to the last toss pillow 

all at once can be exhausting and confusing and can end up with results that look 

more forced than natural. —Bart Foster, Bova Cincinnati 

Most people tend to want to select 

their paint color first, and then 

try to build their room design 

around it. It’s actually best 

to select everything else 

(fabrics, rugs, etc.) first and 

then choose the wall color to 

complement all the elements 

in the space. 

—Julie Cochran, 

Decorating Den Centerville 

54 housetrends.com

For an extraordinary design remember all of the ingredients in your room. 

Beautiful ceiling treatments can create the ultimate WOW that no one will forget! 

In this dining room we embellished the new wallpaper with “crystal jewels” 

and extended the accent to the faux painted sunburst in the tray ceiling. 

—Ann E. Hoffman, Hoffman & Albers Interiors ➻ 


Don’t get too caught up on what is trending. Design 

your home to reflect your personal needs and likes! 

—Brittney Ingram, ID Cincinnati 

When doing window valances, often repeating an accent 

fabric can pull the entire space together. In this family 

room, the repetition of the check from valances to pillows 

to the ottoman, brings continuity to the space and 

serves to create balance and interest in the entire room. 

—Beth Spegal, House Dressing Interior Design, Ltd. 

One design feature that I 

most definitely will suggest 

in your spaces is wallpaper. This 

always becomes a fun part of the project and allows you 

to step outside your comfort zone. This is a favorite 

piece of design and my most enjoyable when sourcing 

for a space. —Alisa Culyer, Honor and Grace 

56 housetrends.com

Great lighting and options for display make any entertainment area shine. 

Always consider what will highlight the area for not only look but function. 

In this bar design we used uplighting, downlighting and mirrors (antiqued), 

as well as a stair-stepped lit bottle display on an amazing piece of stone. 

—Vicki Waker, Cabinet Creations ➻ 



You know how sometimes you can’t define beauty, but you know it when you 

see it? That’s how I feel about quality furnishings. From upholstery and case 

goods to accent pieces and accessories, it doesn’t matter how stunning a room 

looks, if the furnishings aren’t of a certain quality, you’ll never capture that 

extra special something. —Carolynn Reis, Best Furniture Gallery

Ideally all of your furniture or at least the front 

feet of the furniture should fit on the rug to 

define the space and make the most visual 

impact. Choosing a too-small rug can make your 

space feel smaller than it is. 

—Ashley Carr, K.A. Menendian 

RESOURCES 


bovafurniture.com 

cabinetcreationsinc.com 

hgoak.design 


idcincinnati.com 

jcochran.decoratingden.com 

karugs.com 


IBCI1123.008

E 

L 

E 

B 

R 

A 

T 

I 

N 

C 

The Appliance Loft 

3209 Madison Road - Voltage Lof 


2003-2023 

CELEBRATING 

20 YEARS IN 2023! 

G 

BUILDING • REMODELING • REPLACING 

We have the Selection and Service to assist you through all the stages 

SHOP THESE BRANDS… AND MANY MORE! 

Photos this page by Connie Kimsey 

The Appliance Loft 

3209 Madison Road - Voltage Lofts 


513.533.0440 

www.TheApplianceLoft.com 

IBCI1123.008

VENICE TOWER 

SMOKE GROUT, 12X24 

HEARTHSTONE | ENGINEERED STONE TILE 

Designed to Offer a True Tile Look and Feel 

Hearthstone is the perfect choice with a warm and inviting 

surface that is gentle on your feet, easy to care for and quick 

to install. 

Because Hearthstone is warmer to the touch and features a 

softer underfoot, it is ideal in rooms where you are on your 

feet the most - kitchens and bathrooms. 

Save $100 for every $1,000, up to a $500 maximum 

savings on a $5,000+ purchase. Offer ends 12/31/23. 

CARPETS & FLOORS 

513-434-8475 | MCSWAINCARPETS.COM 

MASON | BLUE ASH | TYLERSVILLE 

BEECHMONT | FOREST PARK | FLORENCE 

IBCI1123.013

Lighting the Tri-State 

for over 50 years with 

Sophistication, Style & Value 

859.727.1136 • lighting@a-s-electric.com 

Showroom Hours: M-F 8-4 • Sat 8-12 

A&S Electric Supply, Inc. 

Wholesale Distributor • Lighting Supplier 

859.727.1111 • inquire@a-s-electric.com 

IBCI1123.011

ADVERTISER INDEX 

A&S Lighting Center & Electric Supply, Inc .......... 63 

Basco Shower Enclosures .................................. 15 

Best Furniture Gallery .......................................... 4 

Bova Contemporary Furniture ........................... 26 

Cincinnati Stoneworks........................................ 18 

Closets by Design Cincinnati .............................. 13 

Custom Distributors, Inc .................................... 46 

Fifty West Brewing Company ............................. 65 

Franklin Art Glass Studios, Inc. ............................ 36 

Hanson Audio and Video ................................... 28 

Hoffman & Albers Interiors ................................ 16 

ID Cincinnati Furniture & Interior Design ............ 11 

McSwain Carpets & Floors ................................. 62 

Move2Team.com ............................................... 39 

Neal’s Design Remodel ........................................ 2 

Pella Windows & Doors ....................................... 6 

Perfect Paver Co ................................................ 44 

Ryan’s All-Glass .................................................... 7 

Slats Blind & Shutter Experts .............................. 68 

Stone Mart ......................................................... 52 

Studio J .............................................................. 37 

The Appliance Loft ............................................. 60 

The Spicy Olive ................................................. 40 

Watson’s .............................................................. 9 

Zicka Homes ..................................................... 66 

Take A Holiday Tour 

GREATER CINCINNATI 

Tour of Kitchens 

Sat, Dec 2, 11am-3pm 

Anderson Township 

The Junior League 

jlcincinnati.org 

Annual Victorian 

Christmas Tour & Tea 

Sat and Sun, Dec 2 and 3, 1pm-7pm 

East Row Historic District of Newport, KY 

eastrow.org 

Holiday Home Tour 

Sat, Dec 2, 11am-4pm 

The Glendale Lyceum 

Glendale 

hwbcommunitycenter.org 

GREATER COLUMBUS 

It's a Wonderful House, 

The Holiday Tour 

Sat, Dec 2, 12pm-5pm 

Upper Arlington 

Junior League of Columbus 

jlcolumbus.org 


Sat, Dec 2, 2pm – 6pm 

Delaware Township 

Northwest Neighborhood Association 

delawarenna.org 

GREATER DAYTON 

Holiday Historic Home Tour 

Fri, Nov 24, 4pm-8pm and 

Sat, Nov 25, 3pm-7pm 

McPherson Town Historic District 

mcphersontown.com 


Sat, Dec 9, Tours at 12pm and 4pm 

Historic Grafton Hill 

Grafton Hill Association 

graftonhill.org 

Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens. 

64 housetrends.com

COMPANY GATHERINGS • BIRTHDAY PARTIES 

REHEARSAL DINNERS • GRADUATION PARTIES 

SPORTING EVENTS • REUNIONS 

IBCI1123.007

A N D E R S O N 

Nagel Village is a new townhome community in the 

heart of Anderson. Designed for people who want easy, 

low-maintenance living with the craftsmanship that only 

Zicka Homes can build. 17 townhomes will be available 

starting at $600K+ 

Nagel Village is convenient to an abundance of shopping 

and dining. It is located within the highly desirable Forest 

Hills school district with convenient access to I-275 

and downtown Cincinnati. 

SITES ARE GOING QUICKLY. 

Call Zicka Homes today to reserve your lot! 

Contact Leah Maupin 

513-833-7634 

leah@zickahomes.com 

IBCI1123.002

DEVELOPMENT 

showcase 

Great 

Room 

Kitchen 

Dining 

Foyer 

Master 

Bath 

Laundry 

Master 

Bedroom 

2-Car 

Garage 

Walk-In 

Closet 

Master 

Bedroom 

Walk-In 

Closet 

2-Car 

Garage 

Master 

Bath 

Laundry 

Dining 

Foyer 

Great 

Room 

Kitchen 

FIRST FLOOR: 

1668 Sq. Ft. 

Great Room / 16-3x15-10 

Kitchen / 16-0x15-0 

Dining / 10-0x12-8 

Master / 14x16-4 

Bedroom / 14-6x12-10 

Garage / 21-0x21-0 

Bedroom 

Bath 

Bath 

Bedroom 

OPTIONAL 

Rec. Room/ 

Media 

Unfinished 

LOWER LEVEL: 

744 Sq. Ft. 

Rec Room Media / 15-5x26-0 

Bedroom / 13-0x11-5 

Opt. Bar 

*Other options available 

Bedroom 

Bath 

513.247.3500 

7861 East Kemper Road 

Cincinnati, Ohio 45249 

ZickaHomes.com 

IBCI1123.002

Relax with motorized 

Allure ® Transitional 

Shades. Discover 

motorization solutions with 

wall switch, remote, or at 

the shade control options. 

Plus optional smart 

technology. 

Published in conjunction with Buzz Publications, LLC 

4866 Cooper Rd., Suite 202, Cincinnati, OH 45242 

PRSRT STD 

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TRANSITIONAL SHADES 

See why Cincinnati’s 

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SLATS 

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Buy from and if you ever have a blind or shutter that does not work properly we will fix it for free 

(Motorized blinds have a 5 year warranty) as long as you live in your home! Choose and you 

have Tom, Rudy and Rudy Jr.’s pledge to make you happy with every part of your experience from the 

sale to the installation to our unmatched service! Call us to set up a free in-home consultation TODAY! 

We will make your living space BEAUTIFUL! 

Our New President of 

Sales & Marketing, Rudy Forte, Jr. 

513-616-9835 « www.SlatsBlinds.com « Visit our showroom 11928 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati 45249 

IBCI1123.001

Cincinnati Idea Book November 2023

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