How to Adapt Your Spaces Rather than Simply Maximize Them

By: Megan Williams

Picture this: You have a beautiful guest room in your home. It has plush bedding, ample natural light from two second story windows, enough closet space for your guests to tuck in for a while should they choose to extend their stay. You’ve meticulously crafted this room to be a home-away-from-home for your friends and family. It’s perfect.

But then: Your job shifts to remote work (a reality many of us were familiar with just five years ago). You don’t have a quiet office space in your home. The living room won’t do, because that’s also your toddler’s playroom; the dining room chairs will cause sciatica on your otherwise healthy back and limbs if you sit in them for too long; and your primary bedroom is already packed to the gills. You peer into your spacious guest bedroom. You take in its spaciousness, its crisp linens, its intentional lack of modern technology and shudder: Do I really have to turn this into an office?

All is not lost and, as it turns out, sometimes you can have the best of both worlds.

More families are spending time at home. With 14% of U.S. workers—about 22 million people—now working remotely (Pew Research Center), many households are rethinking how to make their spaces work for both personal and professional life.

The Guest Room/Office Combo
“We like to opt for pieces that are flexible, such as furniture that can be reconfigured—think murphy bed, sofa bed, daybed, chairs that turn into twin beds, and so on,” explained Ashley Hilbish, co-owner and principal designer for Greer Design Co. “If you’re customizing a desk, have your cabinet maker work in drawers to hide printers and keyboards, and consider built-in shelving for visual interest and for storage space for your pesky paperwork that won’t pique your guests’ interest when they’re staying.”

Hilbish also suggests investing in side tables that can double as desks, if space is a concern, or opting for slim office chairs that are both beautiful and functional.

“We also like to go for an overall neutral color scheme that offers pops of color to create a serene space for your guests but an inspiring space for work,” she added.

The Living Room/Playroom Dynamic Duo
“First and foremost, it’s key to invest in lifestyle fabrics,” advised Hilbish, whose company focuses on combining the team’s expertise in window coverings, styling, and soft goods with comprehensive design services. “Those are the fabrics that offer stain resistant factors either naturally or due to a coating that has been applied. Those could look like performance velvets, leathers, or items with washable slipcovers. Lifestyle fabrics are available in almost every collection of furniture, without having to pay a huge, upgraded fee.”

Hilbish advises, when in doubt, ask for a sample and give it a “red popsicle test” to determine if it’s up to the challenge of rigorous use from rambunctious kids.

“Melt a popsicle in a Tupperware, submerge the fabric sample, and see how easy it is to wash off,” she suggested.

Depending on the age of your children, it’s also important to consider furniture with soft or rounded edges to help reduce the number of accidents.

But what to do with all the toys?

“To help keep your spaces aesthetically pleasing, we suggest plenty of storage for toys such as textured baskets or bins with lids, and built-ins with cabinets that are low enough for easy access,” she said. “Washable rugs also offer a sense of convenience for parents in a space where there will be food and drink—on the other end, a high-quality run will clean beautifully when done professionally and is designed to stand the test of time.”

Hilbish also advises against washable rugs over 5’ x 7’, as they tend to be frustrating to put in the wash and dry.

Photo Courtesy Greer Design Co.

Creating Defined Zones in an Open-Concept Space
If you have an open flow to your home, with your kitchen, dining area, and living spaces all intertwining with one another, there is still plenty of opportunity to create functional and flexible spaces that will adapt with your lifestyle needs.

First and foremost, arrange your furniture to create distinct areas, or “rooms” within your larger space.

“One mistake we see often is the phenomenon of ‘perimeter people’ where everything is pushed against the wall,” Hilbish said. “Pulling your furniture off to float and grounding it with a rug in an open concept is key! We never suggest having any furniture touch the wall, it should always have some breathing room of at least a couple of inches.”

When it comes to “grounding” furniture with a rug, Hilbish and her team advise a minimum of an 8’ x 10’ rug for a standard 7’ or 8’ sofa.

“Lighting can play another key element in defining areas and we suggest mixing and matching the varieties to highlight specific zones—pendants, chandeliers, scones, floor and table lamps, and so on. We’re personally not ‘big light people’ and you can always find our design projects with layered lighting,” she said. “You can even use window coverings to help make one space feel more or less dressy than the next, such as adding draperies in the dining area and shades in the living room for a nice mix and match.”

With a little creativity, your home can evolve with your lifestyle—offering function, flexibility, and a design you love.

Advice Straight from the Experts

Upgrading your home doesn’t always mean knocking down walls or embarking on expensive renovations. Sometimes, small, strategic changes can have the biggest impact. To help homeowners make the most of their spaces, we spoke with local interior designer Britney Good, owner and principal designer at Britney Good Interiors, to get expert advice on easy, budget-friendly ways to refresh a home without a full remodel.

Simple and Affordable Ways to Make a Home Feel Stylish and Updated
If your home is feeling outdated but a major renovation isn’t in the budget, consider these quick and effective updates: Rearrange the Furniture: Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all you need. “Try a new space plan that still allows for optimal traffic flow while offering a new layout,” said Good. Simply moving pieces around can transform how a room feels.

Add Something Leafy: Plants breathe life into a room. Choose a bold or uniquely shaped pot to add character and dimension.

Upgrade Your Lighting: “New light fixtures can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of a room,” Good explained. For an easy update without hiring an electrician, swap out a lamp to create a new ambiance.

Swap Out Throw Pillows and Blankets: Incorporate fresh colors, textures, and patterns to instantly revitalize a space.

“Adding a woven basket for storage creates a functional yet stylish touch,” Good suggested.

Introduce Artwork: Whether it’s framed prints, canvas paintings, or wallpaper accents, wall decor adds personality and depth.

Good recommends making a statement with chunky, detailed frames or even wallpapering the ceiling to draw the eye upward.

Declutter and Organize: “One of the best ways to make a home feel intentionally designed is to declutter,” advised Good. Find creative storage solutions to organize essentials and maintain a curated, polished look.

Small Design Changes That Make a Big Impact
Sometimes, a single change can completely shift a home’s aesthetic. Two of the most effective transformations? Paint and rugs.

Refresh with Paint: “Colors have the ability to affect a person’s mood and productivity,” Good explained. Choosing the right hue can set the tone of a room, whether you want to create a calming retreat or an energizing space.

Invest in a Good Rug: “Pattern is key,” Good advised.

Like paint, a well-chosen rug influences a room’s overall theme. She recommends selecting a colorway that complements existing furnishings while balancing comfort and practicality. Soft textures work well in living spaces, while low-pile rugs allow for easy movement in dining areas.

Avoiding Common Design Mistakes
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is overlooking the importance of furniture scale. “Many people work with an interior designer for construction materials but not furnishings, which can lead to choosing furniture that is too large for a space,” said Good. Oversized pieces can make even a spacious room feel cramped.

To avoid this, Good suggests: Working with a Designer for Space Planning: Designers can help ensure proper furniture placement and scale.

Measuring Before Buying: Always check dimensions before purchasing new pieces. Allow at least 36 inches of walkway space to maintain an open flow.
Choosing Appropriately Scaled Furniture: For smaller rooms, opt for lighter, streamlined pieces rather than bulky ones.

Considering Multi-Functional Pieces: Items like sofas with hidden storage or expandable dining tables maximize function without cluttering the space.

Balancing Personal Style with Broad Appeal
If you’re considering selling your home, you may need to strike a balance between personal expression and broad market appeal. Good recommends:
Highlighting Key Features: Ensure elements like built-ins, natural light, and architectural details are well-lit and clutter-free.

Adding Subtle Personality: While it’s best to remove overly personal decor, small touches—such as wallpaper, decorative hardware, or unique mirrors—can still reflect your style while appealing to buyers.

Budget-Friendly Staging Tips for Showings
Staging can make a huge difference when selling a home, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Good suggests focusing on key areas: Main Living Spaces: Add rugs and light furniture in living and dining areas to define the space.

Bedrooms: If a room is empty, a styled air mattress can help potential buyers visualize its use.

Kitchen Islands: Simple additions like stools can make the kitchen feel more inviting and functional.

Final Takeaway
Upgrading your home doesn’t have to mean tearing down walls or spending a fortune. By making strategic updates—whether it’s rearranging furniture, refreshing lighting, or incorporating well-scaled furnishings—you can create a space that feels fresh, stylish, and functional. And if you’re considering selling, thoughtful staging and a balance between personal style and market-friendly design can help make a lasting impression on buyers.

What to Know Before Tackling a Big Project

A home renovation can be an exciting fresh start or a stressful, over-budget headache. The difference? Knowing what to expect before the dust starts flying. Whether you’re gutting a kitchen, updating a bathroom or adding square footage, smart planning is key to a smooth renovation—because when it comes to home projects, knowledge is just as important as a solid foundation.

1. Budget Like a Pro (and Then Add More)
It’s no secret that renovations cost more than expected. But rather than hoping for the best, experts recommend a more strategic approach.

A good rule of thumb is to add at least 20 percent to your budget for unexpected expenses. Hidden water damage, outdated wiring, or material delays—something always comes up. If you don’t need the extra cushion, it’s a win. But if you do, you won’t be scrambling.

Prioritize spending on structural and functional improvements first—think electrical, plumbing and insulation—before splurging on aesthetics. And when it comes to high-ticket items like custom cabinetry or stone countertops, get quotes from multiple suppliers.

Senior couple planning room renovation.

2. Understand the Permit Process
Skipping permits might seem like an easy way to cut red tape, but it can backfire. Unpermitted work can delay selling your home and even force you to redo the
project later.

The good news? Not every project requires a permit. Cosmetic changes like painting, flooring and cabinetry swaps usually don’t. But structural modifications, plumbing, electrical work, and additions almost always do. Call your local building department early to find out what’s required.

3. Hire (and Vet) the Right People
Choosing a contractor is one of the biggest decisions in any renovation.

The lowest bid isn’t always the best—look for experience, licensing, insurance and solid references.

Ask for a portfolio of past work and talk to former clients. And don’t just check online reviews—ask the contractor directly about any projects that didn’t go as planned and how they handled them. You’ll learn a lot from their response.

For larger projects, consider hiring a project manager to oversee timelines, budget and subcontractors. And if you’re going the DIY route, be honest about your skills—some projects are best left to the pros.

4. Expect the Unexpected (and Stay Flexible)
No matter how well you plan, surprises will happen. Old homes often hide outdated wiring or structural issues.

Even newer homes can reveal problems like improper drainage or poorly installed HVAC systems.

Be flexible with your timeline. If you expect things to take longer, you won’t be as frustrated when delays inevitably happen.

If you’re living in your home during the renovation, set up a temporary kitchen or alternative living space. And if it’s a major remodel, consider renting a short-term space—it might save your sanity (and your relationship).

5. Plan Your Design for Function, Not Just Looks
Trendy tile and statement lighting are fun, but don’t overlook the flow and function of your space.

The biggest mistake homeowners make is not considering how they actually live in their home. That gorgeous open shelving?

It might not be practical if you hate dusting.

Think long-term—choose timeless materials and designs that will age well.

And before finalizing your layout, map out where appliances, storage and furniture will go. The last thing you want is a beautiful new kitchen that doesn’t have enough counter space.

6. Source Materials Wisely
Supply chain issues and rising costs have made material sourcing more complicated than ever. Order key materials—flooring, cabinetry, fixtures—well in advance to avoid delays.

If you’re on a budget, explore cost-saving alternatives. Look for remnant stone for countertops or consider semi-custom cabinetry instead of full custom. And don’t overlook local salvage shops—sometimes you can find high-end materials at a fraction of the price.

7. Protect Your Investment
Once the work is done, don’t forget the final steps: Get copies of all warranties and receipts for appliances and materials.

Request a final walkthrough with your contractor to check for any missed details.

Keep a record of all permit approvals and inspections—they’ll be useful if you sell your home in the future.

A well-planned vegetable garden can provide fresh, nutritious produce while maximizing space and resources efficiently. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, careful planning is key to a successful harvest. We’re here to walk you through every step—from selecting a location to harvesting your crops, ensuring a productive, and enjoyable gardening experience.

Selecting the Right Location

The success of your vegetable garden begins with choosing the best location. Most vegetables require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Look for an area with well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, and avoid spots where water pools after rain. A nearby water source is essential for convenient irrigation, as vegetables need consistent moisture. Additionally, consider wind protection—installing a fence or planting shrubs can shield delicate plants from harsh gusts. Accessibility is also important; placing your garden near your home makes it easier to maintain and harvest.

Determining Your Garden Size and Type

The size of your garden depends on your available space, time commitment, and experience level. Beginners may start with a smaller plot, such as a 4×4-foot raised bed, before expanding. Traditional in-ground gardens require more space and effort but can accommodate a greater variety of crops. Raised beds offer better drainage and soil quality control, while container gardening works well for patios and small spaces. If you’re new to gardening, it’s wise to start small and gradually increase the size as you gain confidence.

Choosing the Right Crops

Selecting vegetables that thrive in your climate is essential. We are in Zone 7, which means we have a temperate climate and a medium-length growing season. Also consider your family’s eating habits—growing what you enjoy eating makes the effort worthwhile. Some beginner-friendly crops include:

• Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach, Kale) – Quick to mature and suitable for small spaces.
• Tomatoes and Peppers – Require warm weather and staking for support.
• Root Vegetables (Carrots, Radishes, Beets) – Ideal for loose, well-draining soil.
• Herbs (Basil, Parsley, Cilantro) – Easy to grow in containers and require minimal space.

For maximum efficiency, incorporate succession planting—replacing harvested crops with new ones to extend the growing season.

Designing the Garden Layout

A well-planned layout optimizes space and ensures healthy plant growth. Consider these design principles:

• Rows vs. Raised Beds: Traditional row planting works well for large gardens, while raised beds improve drainage and reduce soil compaction.
• Companion Planting: Some plants support each other’s growth—basil enhances tomatoes, while beans add nitrogen to the soil for corn.
• Vertical Gardening: Trellises and stakes save space and provide support for climbing plants like peas and cucumbers.
• Pathways: Ensure easy access to all plants for watering, weeding, and harvesting.

Sketch a rough garden plan before planting to visualize spacing and arrangement.

Understanding Planting Schedules

Timing your plantings correctly ensures a steady harvest. Begin by checking your area’s last frost date, as this determines when you can safely plant outdoors. In Lynchburg, our final frost date is projected to be April 23 this year (2025). Many vegetables can be grouped into three seasonal categories:

• Cool-Season Crops (Spring & Fall): Lettuce, broccoli, and peas thrive in cooler temperatures.
• Warm-Season Crops (Summer): Tomatoes, peppers, and squash require heat to flourish.
• Succession Crops: Radishes and lettuce can be planted in intervals to provide continuous harvests.

Consider keeping a garden journal to track planting dates, growth progress, and harvest yields for future reference.

Preparing the Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of a productive garden. Follow these steps to ensure nutrient-rich soil:

1. Conduct a Soil Test: Kits are available at garden centers to measure pH and nutrient levels.
2. Amend as Needed: Adjust pH with lime (to raise) or sulfur (to lower) and enrich the soil with compost, aged manure, or organic matter.
3. Aerate and Loosen: Till or manually turn over the soil to improve drainage and root penetration.
4. Apply Mulch: A layer of straw, leaves, or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Planting and Caring for Your Garden

Once your soil is ready, it’s time to plant. Follow these guidelines for best results:

• Seeds vs. Transplants: Some plants, like beans and carrots, grow best from direct-seeded plants, while others, like tomatoes and peppers, benefit from nursery transplants.
• Proper Spacing: Overcrowding leads to poor air circulation and increased disease risk. Follow spacing recommendations on seed packets.
• Watering: Vegetables need about one inch of water per week. Water deeply in the morning to prevent evaporation and disease.
• Weeding and Pest Control: Regular weeding prevents competition for nutrients. Use natural pest deterrents like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or row covers.

Harvesting and Storing Your Produce

Each vegetable has an optimal harvesting time. Picking at peak ripeness ensures the best flavor and texture. General harvesting tips include:

• Lettuce and Herbs: Harvest outer leaves as needed to encourage continued growth.
• Tomatoes: Pick when fully colored but still firm.
• Zucchini and Cucumbers: Pick frequently to encourage more production.
• Root Vegetables: Gently pull from the soil when they reach the recommended size.

Proper storage extends the shelf life of your harvest. Leafy greens last longer when wrapped in damp paper towels and stored in the fridge, while root vegetables keep well in cool, dark conditions. Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature for the best flavor.

End-of-Season Cleanup and Future Planning

Once the growing season ends, cleaning up the garden prepares it for next year’s success. Remove spent plants and compost healthy plant material to enrich the soil. Avoid composting diseased plants to prevent future issues. Consider planting a cover crop like clover or rye to replenish nutrients and prevent soil erosion over winter.

Additionally, reflect on what worked well and what didn’t. Keeping notes on crop performance, pest challenges, and harvest yields helps refine your approach for next season. Properly clean and store gardening tools to extend their lifespan and maintain efficiency.

How to Reduce Energy Consumption This Winter

Winter can be a challenging season for homeowners trying to keep energy bills in check while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency. Here’s how you can make your home more energy-efficient this winter.

1. Seal Drafts and Insulate One of the biggest culprits of energy loss is air leakage through cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and walls. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal gaps around doors and windows. Consider adding insulation to attics, basements, and walls to help retain heat. Even simple fixes like using draft stoppers at the base of doors can make a significant difference.

2. Optimize Your Heating System A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently and uses less energy. Schedule an annual tune-up for your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s running at peak performance. Replace filters regularly, as dirty filters can reduce airflow and strain the system. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to lower the temperature when you’re away or sleeping to save on heating costs.

3. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting Shorter daylight hours mean increased use of indoor lighting. Switching to LED bulbs can significantly cut energy usage compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last much longer, making them a cost-effective choice for winter and beyond.

4. Use Smart Power Strips Many electronics and appliances continue to draw power even when turned off, a phenomenon known as “phantom load.” Smart power strips help by cutting off electricity to devices when they’re not in use, reducing wasted energy.

5. Take Advantage of Natural Heat Make use of natural sunlight to warm your home during the day by keeping curtains and blinds open on south-facing windows. At night, close them to help retain heat. Thermal or insulated curtains can provide an extra layer of protection against cold drafts.

6. Lower Water Heating Costs Water heating accounts for a large portion of household energy consumption. Lower your water heater temperature to 120°F to save on heating costs. Additionally, using low-flow showerheads and washing clothes in cold water can reduce energy usage without sacrificing comfort.

7. Consider Energy-Efficient Appliances If you’re in the market for new appliances, look for Energy Star-certified models, which use significantly less energy than standard models. This includes everything from refrigerators to space heaters, all of which can contribute to lower energy bills.

By implementing these energy-saving strategies, you can reduce your household’s energy consumption while keeping your home warm and comfortable throughout the winter. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.

By: Lindsey Cline-Shrader

Whether you clink champagne glasses in your cocktail best or from your couch, it’s impossible to escape the fever of new beginnings this time of year. The new year buzzes with the promise of fresh starts, making it the perfect time to nurture a new garden ethic or adventure. Here are three impactful garden resolutions for 2025: transitioning to organic methods, creating pollinator havens, and starting a lush vegetable patch.

1. Make the Switch to Sustainable Gardening

Sustainable gardening fosters healthier, more resilient gardens that benefit both your backyard and the ecosystem beyond.

One impactful way to begin this transition is to cease herbicide and pesticide use. These toxic chemicals seep into the soil and trickle into waterways, disrupting soil microbes that form the base of our delicate food web and decimating beneficial insect populations, such as bees and butterflies.

Embracing organic weed control protects the delicate balance of beneficial life thriving in your garden. In garden beds, simple practices like mulching, which suppresses weeds while enriching the soil, or hand-pulling persistent invaders can replace chemical sprays’ quick but damaging effects. Ask yourself if you can make peace with dandelions and violets in your lawn? (No one has yet to criticize my less-than-perfect turf.)

There are gentler options than commercial herbicides for stubborn weeds in stonework. If aggressive crabgrass or the like threatens to take over your patio, try flame weeding, which involves burning weeds with a propane torch (check local fire restrictions before doing so). Or, a mixture of three-part vinegar to one-part table salt and several drops of dish soap acts as a natural weed killer. (Many recipes call for commercial-grade vinegar, which I find unnecessary.) This mixture also damages soil, but the effects are reduced in paved areas and far less catastrophic than industrial herbicides.

Occasionally, herbicides may be the most effective solution for removing invasive species. In these instances, paint it on newly cut stems, roots, or stumps with a paintbrush rather than spraying to reduce environmental impacts. As always, wear protective gear. Be aware that in response to lawsuits over Roundup’s links to cancer, chemical company Bayer recently replaced glyphosate, the active ingredient in most Roundup products, with new herbicides. Unfortunately, independent studies suggest these replacements are even more toxic to insects, trees, and humans than the original glyphosate-based formulas. Glyphosate is still available at local garden stores.

By avoiding insecticides, we protect beneficial predators and allow plants to strengthen their defenses through natural insect interactions. Insects improve plant resiliency—a nibble from a caterpillar or nematode encourages plants to utilize their natural defenses by producing protective compounds or toughening their tissues. This interaction helps plants adapt, boosting their defenses against future insects. Plants’ roots send out signals to one another, helping entire plant communities maintain resiliency.

Spiders and predator insects, such as wasps, praying mantes, ladybugs, and beetles, help control prey insect populations like mosquitoes and flies. Insecticides indiscriminately kill beneficial insects and disrupt this natural pest control. Transitioning to organic gardening may require patience and dedication, but the reward is a garden full of resilient, vibrant life.

2. Create a Pollinator Paradise

Pollinators are critical to ecosystems and food production, yet they face increasing threats. This year, take simple steps to create a sanctuary for them by leaving perennial stems high, fallen leaves where they lie, and planting for all three seasons.

Leaf cover and plant stems are vital winter shelters for overwintering insects. By letting leaves remain in your garden beds, you mimic the forest floor’s rich, insulating carpet, cradling insect life through the colder months while enriching your soil. Similarly, hollow plant stems and native grasses offer nesting and hiding places, protecting pollinators in their most vulnerable states.

Three seasons of blooming plant life sustains pollinators (and ourselves) throughout the year. While summer blooms are easily covered, early spring and late fall bloomers fill essential gaps for pollinators. Early-blooming ephemerals like bloodroot, Virginia bluebells, or native trees provide much-needed nectar for emerging pollinators. Late-season stalwarts like asters and goldenrods support these crucial creatures as they head into hibernation or prepare for migration.

3. Grow Your Own Fresh Harvest

Amidst busy lives, harvesting a sun-warmed tomato or a crisp kale leaf from your garden is profoundly fulfilling. Starting a vegetable patch is a New Year’s resolution that not only reduces waste and promises a bounty of fresh, healthy food but creates a deeper connection to nature (and, per my therapist, counts as rest for the busy-minded).

Perennials are an easy gateway to gardening as they forgive the constant seeding and weeding. Plant them once, and they’ll reward you with years of harvests and minimal upkeep. My favorites are blueberry and currant shrubs and a grape arbor, which also provides summer shade. Perennials like asparagus, artichokes, and rhubarb (as well as annual squashes) require space but little else.

If you’re going for gold, raised beds offer better drainage and soil depth. Two 4’ x 4’ cedar raised beds keep our family flush with easy-to-grow cucumbers, kale, tomatoes, garlic, and green beans. Rich, loamy soil gives vegetables the best start, and a drip hose will keep them thriving throughout the season.

These three garden resolutions reflect care for the environment, an eye for natural beauty, and a heart for personal growth. Here’s to a year of sowing new habits and reaping the rewards. Next year, we’ll toast your success among your flourishing sanctuary, whether it be a drift of milkweed, a simple patch of pumpkins, or a thriving space full of blooms.

A Renovation Project with a Big Mission

By: Megan Williams / Photos by: Ashlee Glen

It’s around here somewhere,” Melissa Holgado said, eyes roaming the northern exterior brick wall of the circa 1825 Federal style plantation home she and her husband, Federico, purchased in 2023.

Finally spotting the right brick, Melissa walked over and gently placed two fingers into two small indentations left on the brick—fingerprints left by the hands of an enslaved person who handmade the brick and likely forcibly worked at the home after its construction.

There’s a duality in this seemingly small detail—that one small brick, nearly indistinguishable from the thousands that wrap the 4,600-square-foot home. When viewed up close, it tells a harsh truth, a painful story of decades of enslaved labor, not just at the home on Red Hill Farm, but across the country. But if you step back even just a little, the brick fades in with the rest and you get the impression of grandeur—of what the home would have been like in its time, before age and decades of abandonment weathered both its interior and exterior.

For the Holgados, their mission is to bring both into focus as they work to restore Red Hill.

The Story of Red Hill Farm

“There are actually a lot of homes or farms named ‘Red Hill’ in this area, thanks to the red Virginia clay that so many historic homes were built on,” said Melissa, explaining the distinction between this home in Monroe and Patrick Henry’s Red Hill in Charlotte County.

According to the Holgados’ research, Red Hill Farm was first settled by Charles Ellis in 1754. Charles was granted 1,000 acres from King George II after he served under Thomas Jefferson’s father, Colonel Peter Jefferson, during the French and Indian War. The home that stands today was built from profits amassed by Charles Ellis II—Charles Ellis’s grandson—through various mercantile ventures.

“We are incredibly sensitive to the difficult history of Red Hill Farm as a slave-owning plantation and [residing on] original Monacan land that was stolen,” Melissa furthered.

The Amherst County region of Virginia and specifically Red Hill’s acreage—which is now 40 acres of its original 1,000—sits on Monacan land. The Monacan Indian Nation has lived in the mountains and foothills of Amherst County since 1000 A.D.

According to the National Archives, identifying enslaved men, women, and children poses unique challenges as “enslaved individuals rarely had surnames and created few records themselves. Successful research usually requires positively identifying the slave holder(s) who may have created records that mentioned slaves.”

Apart from scarce artifacts exhumed during renovation at Red Hill Farm as well as a few remaining foundations of outbuildings on the property, which Melissa conjectures were slave quarters, little is known about the names, identities, and lives of those who were enslaved at Red Hill Farm, including how many were enslaved. However, records of the firm of Ellis & Allan from the years 1783 to 1889 to buy and sell tobacco are archived at the Library of Congress and give a rare glimpse into life and business at this time. It is in these records that it is confirmed that the Ellis family had enslaved persons at Red Hill.

In 2016, the land and home was placed under a conservation easement with the Virginia Outdoor Foundation and the property remains under that easement today.

Red Hill’s Restoration Begins

Driving up to the property today, the experience is idyllic. Finches leap from roadside thickets as you ascend the mountain, the Pedlar River trickling and ambling below.

As you crest the hill, an English Springer Spaniel named Pancho runs at your back wheels, the unofficial welcome party of the property. The front door—East-facing to allow the morning light to gently warm the front of the home—is framed by a Greek-style portico which was added to the facade sometime around the 1930s. Before climbing the wide stairs to the front entrance, however, you pause and allow your eyes to sweep over the neighboring mountain view. You take in the serene silence—a hush that it seems everyone but a nearby Pileated Woodpecker has adopted. Despite it being an active construction site, there is a reverence on the grounds, an understanding of the important work being accomplished.

“When we were first driving here [in October 2022], we had it in our mind that we were just going to see it and decide it was too much of a project,” Melissa remembered. “It was fall, so even the drive was stunning. We just kept joking to each other, ‘I hope it sucks.’

We were so quiet walking through with the realtor. I hung back, taking photos with my camera. I remember saying to myself, ‘This does not suck.’”

Melissa recalled the pastoral views they had just out of the front door. At the time, the land was owned by Sammy Myers, a local farmer, and his son Henry, as part of a larger tract of cattle farm land.

Melissa remembered seeing cattle amble around the front yard.

“It felt right, it felt like home,” she said. “We called the realtor that day and told him we were putting in an offer.”

That night over dinner at The Virginian, where they were staying while they toured Red Hill and another property in the area, the Holgados feverishly drew up plans for the property. With Melissa and Federico having backgrounds in architecture and design, respectively, they had the skill sets needed to tackle such a large restoration project.

“The property was near and dear to the owners’ hearts and they wanted to see it go into the right hands,” Melissa said. “They had turned down offers before because people didn’t have the right intentions—they wanted to gut it or turn it into a business. I wrote them a letter telling them our intentions and our background. I think that went a long way.”

Currently, and when the Holgados purchased the property in January 2023, the home on Red Hill Farm is uninhabitable. It had been vacant for decades and had fallen into disrepair. Former owners had added bathrooms and a kitchen to the twelve-room footprint, but major upgrades need to be made to the electrical and plumbing before the home can be lived in once again.

The home has twelve interior rooms, each with its own fireplace and original mantel and a grand hallway on each of the three floors.

As with most Federal-style homes, the floor plan is nearly identical on each floor.

“Old houses function best when they are used as they were built to be used. So we are going to start lighting some fires in the fireplaces soon,” Melissa said, who has a masters in architecture with a focused-passion on “embodied energy,” a concept that states that the most environmentally considerate building is one that is already built. For the Holgados, their priority is to maintain as much of the historical integrity of the home as possible, while ensuring it remains for another 200 years.

Melissa believes the work she and Federico are doing at Red Hill differs from many historic renovation projects because of their background.

“We are able to recreate architectural details that need repairs by 3D modeling and use of our CNC machine, which is no easy feat,” she said. “My architectural schooling allows me to draw plans, understand basic structural engineering, and the importance of using old school construction methods and materials to ensure the health and stability of the structures.”

After purchasing the home, the Holgados immediately got to work on the tax credit process with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, which is a program that provides state tax credits to property owners who undertake the rehabilitation of historic buildings in compliance with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.

“We turned the milking barn into a proper wood workshop so that we were ready to fix the architectural wood details ourselves,” Melissa said, also noting that Federico’s hobbies include traditional woodworking with a focus on furniture making.

“It also helps to expedite the work our amazing contractor, David Mahler, does. Last year was focused on the exterior in order to get the building weather tight and secure before we begin the interiors this year. We also had a large septic system placed as there hadn’t ever been a proper plumbing system.”

The Holgados acknowledge that they’re undertaking the restoration of two very important stories—the story of a 200-year-old home and the story of the people who lived and worked on the property.

“We can’t wipe history away,” Melissa said, brushing mortar dust from her hands as she stepped away from the fingerprinted brick. “It’s important that these structures exist. It’s important that we keep this alive and are honest about the stories. I don’t mince words, I don’t call this house an estate or a mansion—I call it a plantation because that’s what it was.”

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, preparing your home for the colder months is essential for comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. A little planning and effort now can save you time, money, and headaches later. Use this checklist to ensure your home is ready for winter’s challenges.

Seal Drafts and Insulate

Drafts can make your home chilly and drive up heating costs. Inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks that may let cold air in. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal these areas effectively. Don’t forget to check around outlets, baseboards, and attic hatches, as these are common sources of drafts.

Consider adding insulation in your attic and walls to improve your home’s ability to retain heat. If your windows are older, applying plastic window insulation film can provide an additional barrier against the cold.

Service Your Heating System

Before winter sets in, schedule a professional inspection and servicing of your furnace or heating system. Replace the air filter and ensure the thermostat is functioning properly. Testing the system early can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns during the coldest days of the year.

If you rely on space heaters or radiators, inspect them for safety and efficiency. Always follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent hazards.

Clean Chimneys and Fireplaces

If you have a fireplace, now is the time to clean and inspect it. A professional chimney sweep can remove creosote buildup and check for blockages that might pose fire hazards. Ensure the damper opens and closes properly and that the flue is free of debris or nesting animals.

For those with wood-burning stoves, inspect the stovepipe and replace any damaged components. Stock up on seasoned firewood to keep the flames roaring all winter long.

Prepare Pipes for Freezing Temperatures

Frozen pipes are a common winter issue that can lead to costly repairs. Insulate any exposed pipes in your basement, attic, or crawl space. For outdoor faucets, drain and disconnect hoses, and shut off the water supply to prevent freezing.

Consider leaving cabinet doors open under sinks in colder areas to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. If temperatures are expected to drop significantly, letting faucets drip can help prevent freezing.

Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Your roof is your first line of defense against winter weather. Check for missing or damaged shingles, and repair them as needed to prevent leaks. Clear your gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage, reducing the risk of ice dams forming.

Consider installing gutter guards to minimize debris buildup and ensure water flows freely away from your home’s foundation.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Winter means increased use of heating systems, fireplaces, and other potential sources of carbon monoxide. Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. Replace batteries and upgrade any outdated units for optimal safety.

Add Cozy Layers

Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere inside your home is just as important as winterproofing the exterior. Bring out heavier curtains, blankets, and area rugs to add insulation and comfort. Consider layering your bedding with flannel sheets, thermal blankets, and a down comforter to keep the chill at bay.

Investing in draft stoppers for doors can help maintain a cozy indoor temperature. Additionally, programmable thermostats can help you save on heating costs while ensuring your home stays comfortable when you’re there.

Stock Up on Winter Supplies

Be prepared for winter storms by having essential supplies on hand. Stock up on rock salt or sand for icy driveways and walkways. Keep a snow shovel or snowblower in good working order, and ensure you have backup fuel if needed.

Inside your home, create an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit. Having these items ready can make all the difference during a power outage or severe weather.

Check Outdoor Equipment

Don’t neglect your outdoor spaces. Store or cover patio furniture, grills, and gardening tools to protect them from snow and ice. Winterize your lawn mower and other equipment by draining fuel and performing necessary maintenance before storing them for the season.

If you have outdoor lighting, ensure it’s in working condition to provide adequate illumination during the darker months. Consider adding motion-sensor lights for added safety and convenience.

Plan for Energy Efficiency

Winter can lead to higher energy bills, but a few strategic adjustments can help you save. Install a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize heating schedules. Close vents in unused rooms to direct warm air where it’s needed most.

Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs in your home and outdoor fixtures. These use less power and last longer, reducing energy consumption and replacement costs.

Final Touches

With your home winterized, take a moment to enjoy the coziness. Light some candles, put on your favorite winter playlist, and embrace the season. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a safe and comfortable winter for you and your family.