RMM - JUNE 23 - Aura Elton

HOME JUNE 2023

ADD CHARACTER TO YOUR HOME USING SALVAGED ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS page 04

DIY Rustic Backyard Pools page 12

Strawberry Basil Sorbet Blueberry & Peach Crumble page 18

Beach-inspired Decor page 20

aura.elton@gmail.com (407) 748-8300 aura-elton.homesweethome.digital

courtesy of: Aura I Elton

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Dear Homeowners, Summer is finally here, and this issue of Home Sweet Home is packed with ideas to make your home a stylish and refreshing oasis. We're thrilled to introduce the trend of upcycling architectural elements and salvaged materials to give your home a unique character. Discover how to replace hardware and add unique and timeless architectural detail to your home. Get ready for a summer of relaxation with our guide to building your own rustic backyard pool using a repurposed stock tank. Learn how to pick the right size and shape, source a pump, and add a heater and deck for the ultimate backyard retreat. Whether you like a warm or cool dessert on a summer night, we’ve got a dessert recipe for you featuring fresh summer fruits. And for beach lovers, we have some unique tips for bringing beachy vibes into your home decor, including supporting local artists who create beach-inspired pieces. As always, I’m here to help you create the home of your dreams. Don't hesitate to reach out to me for any questions or if you or anyone you know is looking to buy or sell.

Aura I Elton GLOBAL REALTY CAROLINA LLC (407) 748-8300 aura.elton@gmail.com aura-elton.homesweethome.digital

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Table of Contents

Summer Dessert Recipes

How to Add Character to Your Home with Upcycled Architectural Elements and Salvaged Materials Discover how to incorporate salvaged architectural elements into your home decor with these simple, sustainable DIY projects. Learn how to replace hardware and wall switch plate covers, get creative with storage, and repurpose heirloom pieces for a distinctive touch that expresses your personal style. 04

Strawberry Basil Sorbet

Blueberry & Peach Crumble

Unique Beachy

DIY Rustic Backyard Pools

Touches for Your Home Decor

Learn how to build your own rustic backyard pool by repurposing a stock tank. This article will guide you through the process, from picking the right size and shape tank to sourcing a pump and creating a level foundation. Plus, get tips on adding a heater and deck for the ultimate backyard oasis.

Looking for unique ways to bring the beach into your home decor? This article offers three ideas, including artfully displaying your beach finds, shopping at coastal vintage stores for nautical items, and supporting local artists who create beach-inspired pieces such as driftwood whale sculptures. Plus, get a glimpse into the work and inspiration of Cape Cod- based artist Ellen Paul.

June 2023

How to Add Character to Your Home with Upcycled Architectural Elements and Salvaged Materials

By Melinda Burris

Easy DIY Ideas for Incorporating

Reclaimed Materials into Your Home Decor

A design trend that continues to grow is the renewed appreciation for things that might have readily gone onto the junk heap. Designers and homeowners alike are exhibiting a willingness to look at what was old as something that can be made new again—even if it’s for a purpose different than the one for which the item was originally intended.

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WHY HAS REPURPOSING AND UPCYCLING BECOME SO POPULAR? We spoke with organizations built on the philosophy of repurposing and upcycling, including Habitat for Humanity, which has long embraced this philosophy through its 900 ReStore locations across the nation. ReStores are donation centers and home improvement stores that accept donations of new and gently used goods ranging from surplus building materials to appliances, furniture, tools and more. Certain ReStore locations also feature a Deconstruction (Decon) service which was created to help homeowners who are planning to remodel their kitchens offset the high cost of deconstruction. The process is simple. Contact your regional Habitat for Humanity and inquire if the Decon service is provided in your area. If it is and your kitchen cabinets, countertops and appliances are found to be in good working order, they will set up a date for the Decon team of experts to come and carefully clear these items away so they can be resold or recycled. Homeowners save money in the process and receive a tax deduction for items donated.

Asia Bartholomew, a digital marketer for Habitat for Humanity in Charlotte, North Carolina, explains the surge in popularity among Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores and its Decon service is in part due to people being more conscientious about avoiding waste and a desire to leave behind a smaller carbon footprint. Asia also attributes the popularity of the ReStores in general to the current economy noting, “People are looking for more cost-effective options, and are willing to give something a new chance.” We also met with Michael and Annie Murphy, co-founders of Eco Relics, an architectural salvage company in Jacksonville, Florida. With a strong commitment to honoring craftsmanship past and present, their community-focused, green ethos is encapsulated by their motto: “Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose.” The couple agrees that the company has evolved organically. Michael affirms he has had a lifelong passion for “recycling, repurposing and DIY projects.” Annie, a self-described “green warrior” has worked with Michael to shape the type of business that epitomizes the movement toward embracing upcycling and sustainability.

June 2023

Simple Ways You

Can Incorporate Salvaged Architectural Elements into Your Home

If you’re longing to add some character or old-world craftsmanship to your home or just need ways to create a space that expresses your personal sense of style, salvaged elements might be a cost-effective and unique way to add charm to your home. If you’re hesitant to try because you aren’t a practiced woodworker or experienced in construction, here are the top two places you can start to give your home special touches throughout:

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1. Hardware

A simple change of hardware can make a subtle yet unmistakable change to the color, texture and feel of any kitchen or bathroom. Find vintage or antique cabinet and drawer pulls and change out the fixtures that came with your house. The possibilities are endless, from warming the room up with the color and rich texture of hand hammered copper or going cool and classic with pewter hardware stamped with a floral motif. Consider hand painted ceramic or porcelain knobs and pulls. These are available in a vast array of colors, shapes and designs. Depending on your choice, you can add just the right amount of whimsy or the perfect touch of elegance! Open the cabinet or drawer and use a screwdriver to loosen the existing hardware screws and remove the hardware you wish to replace. Use wood putty (not wood filler) to cover and fill in the old hole. Measure carefully to find the hole center. This is especially important if you are replacing a single knob or pull with a handle. To center the handle correctly, you must measure to find the hole- to-hole center—the distance between the center of the first hole to the center of the second hole on the handle. Remember the old adage, “Measure twice, drill once!” REPLACING HARDWARE PULLS AND KNOBS IS QUITE EASY TO DO:

Mark where the new holes should be with a pencil. Drill new holes to fit the width of the screws needed. Install your new hardware! Take a moment to enjoy the new vibe you’ve introduced to the whole room with this simple project! This DIY project can give any room a new look. Home offices and other rooms that require lots of storage space are great opportunities to use this simple hack to breathe new life into rearranged or repurposed rooms!

June 2023

2. Switchplate Covers

If that’s not your style, consider Art Deco brass plates in a natural finish or a decorative design complete with lacquer coating. If your tastes are more aligned with modern design, check out a local Habitat for Humanity ReStore near you with a surplus construction materials department and find a style and finish that speaks to you! Much like changing out cabinetry hardware, replacing your existing wall switch plate covers is an easy DIY project. However, there are precautions that should be taken anytime you are working with electricity.

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Locate the correct circuit breaker and turn off the power to the outlet. If you are working to replace the covers on several switch plates, flip the main breaker at the top of the circuit breaker to shut off all electricity in the house. After you turn off the electricity, attempt to turn on a couple of switches before beginning work, just to make sure the interior power is off. Doing so will avoid the risks of accidental shock and fire. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the existing cover plate. If the cover plate has been in place for a number of years, it may take some gentle nudging to remove it without damaging your wall. Use the screwdriver to secure the new cover plate into place. You may want to attach it loosely at first so you can make any adjustments to straighten and position it just as you want it before tightening the screws completely.

Turn the power back on and test the wall switch to make sure it’s working properly. Before you purchase new wall switch plate covers, take note of the size, shape and number of outlets each switch plate is designed for, and be sure the new ones you purchase fit that layout. If you have any questions, take a photo of the exposed wall switch with you when you go shopping. Experts at architectural salvage companies and antique stores can guide you in making the correct purchase. This same DIY project can be used to switch out power outlets! Just be sure to follow the same precautions!

June 2023

Not Really the DIYer Type But Love to Shop?

If you aren’t really the hands-on type but have an eye for beautiful design, we have some great ideas for you.

Get Creative with Storage – Find a used wooden corner cupboard with plenty of storage space and refinish it or simply give it a good cleaning using a soft cotton cloth and a mixture of oil soap and water. Apply the cleaner sparingly and carefully in a circular motion following the grain of the wood. Use a fresh, dry cloth to remove any excess moisture by rubbing the piece down once more, using circular motions along the wood grain. Repurpose to Add a Coffee Table That’s Functional and a Terrific Conversation Piece – Looking to add something to your décor that’s as unique as you are? Try upcycling a large flat top steamer trunk or an heirloom hope or memory chest as a coffee table! The rectangular shape is perfect for functionality, offers storage capabilities and is sure to be a conversation starter! Lineberry Carts – Named for the Lineberry Foundation and Machine Co., the business that produced and sold these oak carts with three cast iron wheels, bolts and plates from the early 1900s to the mid-twentieth century, these multipurpose carts were used to transport all types of factory goods throughout the southeastern United States. In the last decade or so, the popularity of the Lineberry carts has reemerged as they are commonly restored and used as coffee tables. Purchasing a restored Lineberry cart can cost up to a thousand dollars. You can save big by purchasing a cart and doing the restoration work yourself.

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Although you might think there is a limited supply of architectural salvage since these items are no longer being made, Michael Murphy, co- founder of Eco Relics, contends the opposite is true: “The supply of architectural salvage with detailed craftsmanship is great because [modern] industry is booming and old structures in major, ancient cities are being torn down to make way for high-rise buildings to accommodate the rapid growth and modernization that is taking place throughout the world.” So, next time you get a yearning for a new look, think outside of the box and let your creativity flow! If you love fresh ideas for old things, check out Eco Relics DIY Customer Creations Facebook Group Page and take part in some DIY “project therapy” with likeminded people!

Light Up Your Foyer – The foyer is the entryway to your home and gives guests their first glimpse of your décor. Unless it is custom-designed, homes are equipped with standard light fixtures that are bought in large volumes by contractors through a building supply company. Show your guests your vision for entertaining in style by replacing the generic hanging light fixture in your foyer with an opulent chandelier salvaged from a historic residence and restoring it to its former glory. Turn an Ornate Door into a New Headboard – Many repurposing projects simply call for a bit of a creative twist. Solid wood doors were once made and carved for hours by highly skilled craftspeople. By turning the door on its side, you transform it into a one-of-a-kind headboard.

June 2023

BUILD YOUR OWN RUSTIC BACKYARD POOL The modern era has introduced a plethora of backyard pool options. From in-ground pools for multiseason use to temporary pools that can be set up and taken down as the need arises, finding the cool spot has never been easier. In some ways, the myriad options make the decision more difficult though. Whether your situation requires a removable pool, you’re looking for something durable, or you just happen to have a used stock tank around the property, building your own “Cowboy pool” is easier than you think. Pre-formed and nearly ready for use, a stock tank needs only a few adaptations to convert from a watering hole to a soaking pool.

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STEP 1

PICK A STOCK TANK

The first step in creating your cool oasis is to find your ideal stock tank. Evaluate the amount of space you have and how many people you hope to accommodate in your sitting pool. Standard stock tanks come in diameters ranging from six feet to twelve feet, but go up to 15’. The typical height is between two and three feet. When calculating your preferred size, ensure there is adequate space to move around the outside of the pool, especially if you plan to add a deck. Inside the pool, make sure there’s space to use floaties and accommodate your standard number of guests. While you’re planning out your stock tank pool, calculate how much water it will take to fill it. A small tank will hold around 300 gallons, an eight- foot tank will accommodate around 700 gallons, and a 15-foot tank with higher sides has a capacity of over 2,600 gallons. Remember you’re paying for that water so it might be a factor in your budgetary decisions, especially if you drain and refill it.

STEP 2

MAKE A DELIVERY PLAN Stock tanks are large and heavy. You can’t just throw one into the back of the Suburban. These steel beasts can weigh as little as one hundred pounds or top out over 700 pounds, depending on the size you choose. You’ll need to have your stock tank pool site prepped and ready for delivery before arrival, since you probably don’t want to have to move it again once you get it home. If you’re having a trucking company deliver your stock tank, think about any possible restrictions they may encounter. Do you have a tight driveway or limited street parking? Is there a way to maneuver the tank through side gates into the yard? Will you need a crane to lift it into place or can a few people roll it? Your stock tank will probably be delivered on a long flatbed truck so make sure your jobsite can accommodate it.

Once you’ve decided on the size and shape, you’ll need to locate one within your price range.

Stock tanks are part of a standard farming supply list, so they should be easy to find. However, the pandemic put a kink in the supply chain, making them more expensive and more difficult to source. Start with your local farm store such as Coastal Farm Supply or Wilco. If you don’t find what you’re looking for there, head to the internet. Check out Tractor Supply, Tank and Barrel, and Stock Tank Pool. Of course, you can always see what selection of stock tanks Amazon has at any given time, although they’re a better resource for other parts you’ll need in addition to the stock tank itself. After calculating all these factors, expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for your stock tank. Remember to take delivery charges into consideration.

June 2023

STEP 3

SOURCE A PUMP With your stock tank picked out and a plan for delivery, figure out what type of pump you’ll be using for your pool. One common option is a traditional pump with paper filters you replace frequently. This type of pump requires a bit more attention and you’ll need to remember to order filters and replace them on a regular schedule. You’ll also have more waste from discarded filters. However, this type of pump is more budget- friendly than other options. Another common type of pump is a sand pump. These pumps rely on sand or ground up glass to filter so there is little waste and the sand only needs replaced every few years. Over the life of the pump, it will average out to a lower cost than a cartridge setup.

STEP 4

CONSIDER POWER SOURCE Your pump needs power so figure out where you’ll be plugging it in. If you’re close enough to the house, you may be able to plug it directly into an exterior outlet. However, if you’re not within reach (generally around six feet), you’ll need to use an extension cord or install a tower electrical outlet. Just make sure you have a plan before installation.

STEP 5

HEAT IT UP (OPTIONAL) We rely on pools to cool us down, but sometimes the chilly water is too much of a good thing. If you want to provide a heater for your pool, there are myriad ways to go about it. You can invest in a solar, electric, or propane heater to do the job. If this is part of your plan, now is the time to source supplies and map out the blueprint.

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STEP 6

PREP THE SPACE FOR YOUR STOCK TANK POOL Prepping the space for your cowboy pool is an essential part of the process. It must be precise. The surface of the water does not lie. If your leveling is off, it will show when the pool is filled. To avoid draining and releveling the area, ensure the ground material is compact. Also make the foundational support materials extend out a minimum of one foot past the outer edge of the stock tank. If you already have a poured concrete patio or other solid foundation, skip to the next step. However, note that most patios are graded away from the house to encourage water runoff so the water level in your pool will likely be off a bit if you place it on a pre-formed pad without making adaptations. If you’re starting with lawn or soil, start by clearing the area of trees, bushes, shrubs, plants, rocks, and grass. Use a rototiller to grind up the soil if you’re removing grass. Then rake the sod away, leaving the soft dirt below. Fill in holes and dig out high points so the surface is completely level. Then place a 2x4 or other straight board across the surface of the dirt. Ensure it comes into contact with the soil across the length of the board. Place a level on the board to see where you need to make adjustments from side to side. Rotate the board and measure level again. Repeat the process as often as necessary until the entire area is prepared. Next, add one or more inches of sand. Build it up and tamp it down for a firm foundation. Again check the level.

STEP 7

PLACE THE STOCK TANK

Now you’re ready for your tank to be delivered and put into place. Whether you’re having it lifted in by crane or you scrounge up a group of willing friends, try not to disrupt the foundation. In other words, don’t drag the tank over the sand you’ve so diligently prepared. Once you’ve placed the stock tank, level it once more, making adjustments as needed.

June 2023

STEP 8

PREP AND INSTALL THE PUMP

Converting your stock tank into a pool is as easy as installing a pump. However, to ensure a long and efficient pump life, you need to make a few modifications. Choose a spot on the side of the tank that’s closest to the electrical outlet. Use an appropriately-sized hole saw attachment for your power drill (most commonly 2 3/4”). Cut a circular hole in the upper part of the tank, below the top of the water level height and avoiding the biggest ridges in the side of the tank. It will sit about ⅓ of the way from the top lip. This is for your pump outlet, which is a two-part system that goes through the hole. Lower on the tank, drill a second hole for the pump intake. Place this off to one side of the upper hole. Use a file to smooth out any rough edges inside the holes. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any fragments of metal left behind.

To avoid leaks, wrap plumbing tape around the threads on the inlet and outlet valves. Then apply a thick thread of marine-grade sealant to the surface of each valve before installing them through the holes. The outlet valve goes in the upper hole while the inlet valve goes in the lower hole. Attach the nut tightly to the inside of the pool. Wipe away excess adhesive and smooth what’s left by running a wet finger around the edges of the valves. Next, attach a plunger valve to the outside of each valve so you can easily replace hoses and filters without water gushing out. Your pump is almost ready at this point. If you have an air jet valve, screw it into place on the top of the outlet valve. Fill your pump with sand or glass, or put your filter in place. Then attach the lines to the valves with the other end of the hose attached to the filter. Follow the directions associated with the pump you chose.

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STEP 9

PREP AND INSTALL THE HEATER (OPTIONAL)

If you chose to install a heating system for your DIY pool, now is the time to get that set up.

STEP 10

BUILD A DECK (OPTIONAL) There are countless ways to design a pool deck, so figure out what works for your space. It may be part of a larger landscaping design with a comprehensive deck built up around it, or it may be little more than an elevated surface along the edge of the stock tank pool to place drinks and sunscreen.

STEP 11

FILL THE STOCK TANK POOL

If you’re worried about the mineral content of your water, purchase a filter for the end of your hose. This will remove any calcium, VOCs, and hard water minerals. Allow your tank to fill completely before turning on the filter.

June 2023

Summer Dessert Recipes Strawberry Basil Sorbet Ingredients: z 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved z 1/4 cup granulated sugar z 1/4 cup water z 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped z 1 tablespoon lemon juice Instructions:

1. Combine strawberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar has dissolved. 2. Remove from heat and add chopped basil leaves. 3. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature, then transfer to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. 4. For a perfectly smooth sorbet, strain mixture through a sieve to remove any larger pieces. 5. Add lemon juice. 6. Pour mixture into a large bowl or container and freeze for at least 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent crystallization. 7. Serve sorbet in bowls or cones.

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Blueberry & Peach Crumble

Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9-inch baking dish. 2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches and blueberries. Spread fruit mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. 3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well. 4. Add softened butter to the flour mixture and stir until crumbly. 5. Spread crumble mixture over the top of the fruit in the baking dish. 6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. 7. Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. 8. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:

z 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced

z 2 cups fresh blueberries z 1/2 cup all-purpose flour z 1/2 cup rolled oats z 1/2 cup light brown sugar z 1/4 teaspoon salt

z 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon z 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

June 2023

ART INSPIRED BY THE OCEAN

You can find Ellen’s work, including calligraphy and custom home portraits, online at e llenpaulart.com and follow her journey on Instagram @ellenpaulart.

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IN THE ARTIST’S WORDS

Nine years ago, I was doing decoupage and working with wood. Then I started studying watercolors and calligraphy, art history, and sketching. When we moved to Cape Cod, I fell in love with this atmosphere: the sea, whales, cozy houses, and driftwood.

This project with driftwood whales has brought together all my experience and interests. In every driftwood the ocean hides a whale; each driftwood whale from the ocean is full of unique stories!

All driftwood is assembled on Cape Cod. I don't use a pencil to pre-draw the whale; the driftwood suggests the shape of the whale hidden by the ocean. It's like a miracle! I love to create whales on request; these particular whales are full of stories and sweet memories of the client.

Ellen Paul, Spermwhale with Highland Lighthouse. Found driftwood and mixed media, 22 x 3 ½ x 10 ½ inches.

June 2023

3 WAYS TO ADD UNIQUE BEACHY TOUCHES TO YOUR HOME

Shop Coastal Vintage Stores

Want to bring that warm, beachy vibe of your summer vacation home with you, but not interested in anchor-print throw pillows in your year round space? Here are some unique ways to bring a touch of the coast into your everyday home decor.

If you’re going to the beach this summer, check out local thrift, vintage, and antique stores for vintage nautical and coastal items. Keep an eye out for paintings or prints of seascapes, nautical maps, folk art made of shells, brass nautical tools and sailing instruments, vintage toy or model ships, and hand-carved mermaids or sea captain figurines. Style your finds on shelves or side tables with your favorite beach reads, vintage books, or pictures from your favorite beach spots.

Artfully Display Your Beach Finds

If you’re a beach lover who always returns from a walk in the sand with a shell or two in your pocket, think about how you can artfully display your treasures. Try sorting shells of similar shapes or colors into glass jars or handwoven baskets, or create a minimalist mobile with pieces of driftwood or seaglass. You can also mount collections into shadow boxes or curio cabinets to decorate your walls.

Support Local Artists

Consider creating a beach-inspired gallery wall with pieces from artists working in your favorite coastal spots. Artists are continually drawn to the ocean and to tropical landscapes as inspiration. Visit local artist shops, galleries, or craft fairs to find everything from blown glass, to beach photography, paintings, sculpture, and even sea glass and resin mosaics.

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What is Your Home Truly Worth?

To Request a Copy of My Free Home Value Report to Determine What Your Home is Truly Worth, Call (407) 748-8300 or Email aura.elton@gmail.com

This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive my free report with information that will help you determine your home’s value.

I recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes I’ve identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth.

An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but I will provide one at no cost.

If you would like my free, professional opinion on the value of your home, I’d be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person. I look forward to helping you!

Aura I Elton GLOBAL REALTY CAROLINA LLC

(407) 748-8300 aura.elton@gmail.com aura-elton.homesweethome.digital

June 2023

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