Sources
Abbey Carpets
Abbey Carpets features Fabrica International, a California-based manufacturer of premium quality residential broadloom carpet and handcrafted area rugs. Available at finer retailers and trade showrooms, Fabrica's products are ideally suited to the design community.
9979 Main Street
Fairfax, VA 22032
T. 703-934-7802
F. 703-934-7807
Ann Kenkel Interiors
Traditional, timeless interiors with a flair; from the intial design phase through finish selection and decoration.
1904 37th StreetNW
Washington, DC 20007
T. 202-333-2683
Anora Home
Anora is a high-end home furniture store that offers a collection of contemporary and modern furniture and accessories at very affordable prices. Anora provides a fresh blend of European design and Asian luxury, and a touch of modern chic and classic elements.
5252 Wisconsin Ave NW
Washington, DC 20015
T. 202-363-3033
F. 202-363-3042
Ashton Design Group
From traditional to contemporary, JoAnn Zwally, ASID, believes design should be personal and reflect the client's needs and tastes. Listening to client's desires, ideas, and preferences, Ashton Design Group creates unique and individual solutions.
1214 Tucker Lane
Ashton, MD 20861
T. 301-924-2072
F. 301-774-3391
Backyard Creations
Backyard Creations is noted for original, quality pools and spas that incorporate the natural terrain and architectural style of their surroundings. They specialize in building custom gunite swimming pools to fit your imagination and lifestyle. For your own backyard escape, please contact them today!
1560-A Tilco Dr
Frederick, MD 21704
T. 1-800-232-9066
F. 301-668-4416

Featured Expert


Kathleen Litchfield
President of Petro Design/Build, Inc. Kathleen is one of the Washington area's leading landscape experts, with 30 years in the industry. She holds a BS in Horticulture from the University of Maryland and many other industry-related educational certifications. Her insightful advice on landscape design, construction and practice has been published and quoted in numerous regional and national magazines. She has developed and taught accredited courses in Horticulture and Landscape Construction and has lectured for Garden Clubs, National Association of Remodeler’s Industry, Landscape Contractors Association, the Smithsonian Education Series, George Washington University Landscape design program, National Real Estate Association and the Washington Design Center. In April of this year she taught the CEU course on Landscape Design, Construction and Cost to members of the American Society of Interior Designers.

Ask the Expert

Questions


I have 2 rooms half seperated. 1 room is a casual family room w/tv,game table. I don't know what to do with the other room. I will have a pergo wood floor and 3 long windows on one wall. the other wall is vey wide and empty. Can I put a small coctail table w/stools in a living room?, in case I need extra dining area,if yes, then should I use a full size sofa? My Backyard is a large hill that is very difficult to mow. The bottom of the hill backs to a heavily wooded area and a stream. What kind of ground cover could I plantso that I would not need to mow and would also do well in a shaded area. Thanks Dave I want to reface my fireplace with faux stone and don't know how to start this project. Is there any companies in the Reston, Va that have this product? Thank you. What are the best plants for attracting hummingbirds to my garden? Our shady 1/3 acre lot needs new walkways, deck, a patio and steps where there is now a steep slope, plus better plantings. We'd like to start with an overall plan and implement in 2-3 stages. Can you recommend someone who can handle this? The steps to the exit from the below grade hobby garage entrance are a relatively complex challenge, I think. What style of carpeting is really trendy right now?
Can't find what you're looking for? Click here to ask your own question

Answers

Q:  I want to reface my fireplace with faux stone and don't know how to start this project. Is there any companies in the Reston, Va that have this product? Thank you.

A:  Luck Stone has Cultured stone products. Talk to Scott McKnight in the VA office - 703-821-2427

Expert:  Kathleen Litchfield
Q:  I have 2 rooms half seperated. 1 room is a casual family room w/tv,game table. I don't know what to do with the other room. I will have a pergo wood floor and 3 long windows on one wall. the other wall is vey wide and empty. Can I put a small coctail table w/stools in a living room?, in case I need extra dining area,if yes, then should I use a full size sofa?

A:  Our company is primarily for exterior design/build services. Marlies Venute of Venute Interiors will be able to help you with your question. Her email address is MVenute@aol.com

Expert:  Kathleen Litchfield
Q:  My Backyard is a large hill that is very difficult to mow. The bottom of the hill backs to a heavily wooded area and a stream. What kind of ground cover could I plantso that I would not need to mow and would also do well in a shaded area. Thanks Dave

A:  Can you see your slope from your house or does it slope away from you towards the woods? (Is it a focal point?) Is it sandy/rocky/clay soil? Is it consistantly shady throughout or does the light change during the day? In general, shady ground covers include St John's Wort (Hypericum calycinum), English Ivy (Hedera helix), Bugleweed (Ajuga repans), and Pachysandra. Moisture and soil requirements and amount of light necessary vary depending on the plant. If it is a focal point or visible from the house you may want to consider a variety. If it is just to cover-and-forget-about, 1-2 may be all you need. A photo with more information would be helpful. You can send them to me at kathleen@petrodesignbuild.com or visit our web site at Petrodesign/build.com

Expert:  Kathleen Litchfield
Q:  What are the best plants for attracting hummingbirds to my garden?

A:  Pineapple Sage is my favorite plant for attracting hummingbirds but they are attracted to many flowering and fruting plants. Right now they are all over my figs and they love the flowers on my Crape Myrtle. Some of the more popular plants include Hibiscus (annual and perennial),Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiata) and Trumpet vine. Right now they are storing up for the long flight. You may want to have a few feeders out to suppliment your flowers(especially in consideration of the current drought)and for your own entertainment. I have dinner out by the feeders to watch their evening antics.

Expert:  Kathleen Litchfield
Q:  Our shady 1/3 acre lot needs new walkways, deck, a patio and steps where there is now a steep slope, plus better plantings. We'd like to start with an overall plan and implement in 2-3 stages. Can you recommend someone who can handle this? The steps to the exit from the below grade hobby garage entrance are a relatively complex challenge, I think.

A:  Please visit our web site at petrodesignbuild.com for direction, ideas and process on developing and staging your landscape. Included is a comprehensive questionair that will help you organize your thoughts in writing and give us the background information we need to best help you develop a landscape that will work for your specific needs, site conditions and budget. You may also call my direct at 301-249-9000 to discuss verbally. Kathleen Litchfield President of Petro Design/Build Inc.

Expert:  Kathleen Litchfield
Q:  What style of carpeting is really trendy right now?

A:  Our business is primarily exterior design and construction. I work and have lectured many interior experts in the area. Nancy Colbert from Design Partner's in McLean, is one of my favorites. Please contact her at 703-242-0886 or jncolbert@aol.com. Feel free to call me directly for more resources at 301-249-9000. Kathleen Litchfield.

Expert:  
Archives