Lundberg Builders, Inc wins What’s Up Magazines Best Of Contest for 7th Consecutive Year

LUNDBERG BUILDERS WINS WHAT’S UP? MAGAZINE’S BEST OF EASTERN SHORE 2017 READER’S POLL FOR ‘Custom HOME DESIGN/BUILDER & REMODELING’ FOR THE 7TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

June 2, 2017 – Lundberg Builders, Inc., a leading full service design and build firm serving Anne Arundel County, Queen Anne’s County and the Eastern Shore of Maryland has won What’s Up? Magazine’s Best of Eastern Shore 2017 Reader’s Poll for ‘Home Design/Builder & Remodeling/Custom Building Services’. This is the company’s seventh consecutive year as the winner for this category. Lundberg Builders projects have been featured in numerous leading home building and design magazines including, Home and Design, Annapolis Home, Home, Builder/Architect, as well as The Washington Post. They have also recently won Best of Houzz in Design, a recognition from Annapolis Home Magazine and The Capital Readers Choice awards. The company has grown significantly each year—even through a recession when other companies were going out of business.

“We can not thank the community enough for their support and votes. We are both honored and humbled to receive this recognition for the 7th year. Our reputation is largely built on the confidence you place in our company. We strive to not meet your expectations, but to exceed them and being recognized by our local community shows us that we are doing just that.” – Brad

Every year What’s Up magazine asks their readers to cast their votes for the best businesses, law firms, spa services and medical professions by submitting an online ballot on whatsupmag.com or by mail. The winners will be honored at the annual Best Of Party held on June 15 at the Annapolis Lowes Hotel.

About Lundberg Builders
For more than 35 years Lundberg Builders has specialized in the finest quality custom residential work. From large mansions to renovations and home maintenance projects, our name and reputation is synonymous with award-winning designs, exceptional value, quality craftsmanship, and extraordinary customer care.

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What to look for in a home if you want to age in place

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines aging in place as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” Read on to learn of some ways that can allow you to stay safer in your home as you grow older.

Lever door handles are easier to turn than knobs. These are among one of the more inexpensive changes that can be added to your home.

Think flooring. Wood, linoleum, cork or even rubber flooring are good options because they are easier on joints and safer if a fall were to occur.

Being able to pull out shelves to reach exactly what you need is necessary especially when things become less accessible as you age. Wide, easy-to-grab cabinet and drawer pulls are essential if you want to age in place. Cabinet knobs and drawer pulls are also a fairly inexpensive change.

Wider hallways and passages to accommodate a wheelchair or walker. In the kitchen, the Americans With Disabilities Act guidelines require at least 60 inches of clearance between opposing cabinets, walls or appliances for U-shaped kitchens; galley or “pass through” kitchens require at least 40 inches of clearance between opposing surfaces.

No-threshold shower. Although these are growing in popularity due to the sleek look they offer, curbless showers are essential in an aging in place home as they are easier and safer to use. Grab bars can also be added for more safety.

Atleast one no step entry in to the home that is covered and well lit. This is essential to allow access for wheelchairs and walkers.

Elevator. If the home is more then one level be sure the staircase has secure banisters as well as an elevator. If you are not prepared to install an elevator currently, you can frame in stacked closets on top of each other to use for storage until you are ready to add in the elevator.

Wider doors to allow for walkers and wheelchairs. It is suggested that doorways be atleast 32-inches wide.

Install comfort-height toilets. These are two to three inches higher than traditional toilets, and require less bending to sit on.

In conclusion, addressing flooring issues, installing additional lighting and adding in a curbless showers are all things that may be beneficial to all ages and can be more aesthetically appealing. Are you considering adding any of these features to your home?

Sources houzz.com and The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Veneer and Stone Bi Level Home

Were nearing completion on this bi level home on the South River. The combination of wood and stone veneer siding truly makes this home stand out. Click on each image to see it enlarged.

Open windows with views of the South River

Lawn Mower Safety

Springs here and that means more yard work for many families who are starting to plant gardens and tend to their yards. Did you know that approximately 68,000 people are treated in emergency rooms for lawn mower-related injuries each year (AAOP)? Sadly more than 9,000 of them are children under age 18.

“The overwhelming majority of these injuries result in amputations that require reattachment or reconstructive surgery,” says Rick Redett, M.D.

The majority of lawn mower-related injuries can be prevented by following a few safety guidelines and using common sense. Check out the list below for a few safety precautions you can take to prevent injuries.

Keep all children indoors while a power mower is in operation
Do not allow children under 16 to use ride-on mowers
Do not allow children under 12 to walk behind mowers
Do not allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers
Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as twigs and stones by cleaning the lawn before mowing begins
Use a collection bag for grass clippings or a plate that covers the opening where cut grass is released
Wear protective goggles and close-toed shoes when operating a mower or when near one
Turn off the mower immediately if you see a child running toward you. Children can fall and slip into the blade, especially if the grass is wet
Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary
Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel paths, roads, or other areas
Make sure that blade settings (to set the wheel height or dislodge debris) are done by an adult, with the mower off and the spark plug removed or disconnected

Wanted: StableFamily Sponsor

Sharing horseback riding activities and lessons gives families a chance to interact and cooperate in ways that promote feelings of well- being and connection. As a family, you laugh and play together; figure out problems together and cooperate to achieve a common goal. This activity builds new bonds and stronger relationships.

Wanted: Hippotherapy Sponsor

Hippotherapy is the use of horseback riding as a therapeutic or rehabilitative treatment. The movement of the horse affects a rider’s posture, balance, coordination, strength and sensorimotor systems.

It is believed that the warmth and shape of the horse as well as its rhythmic, three-dimensional movement along with the rider’s responses to the movement of the horse can improve the flexibility, posture, balance and mobility of the rider.

This program differs from therapeutic horseback riding, because the work is one-on one, and the rider does not direct the horse. Licensed health professionals including physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists guide the rider’s posture and actions while the horse is controlled by assistants at the direction of the therapist.

The horse’s unique walk transfers variable, repetitive and rhythmic movement to the client, which provides sensory input to the brain and nervous system. The resultant responses in the client are similar to human movement patterns of the pelvis while walking. An average horse takes 120 walking steps per minute, allowing 120 chances each minute for a client to experience this unique movement that cannot be replicated by another apparatus or equipment. During a session the therapist, working in conjunction with a specially trained horse handler, can grade or adapt this movement to provide a “just right challenge” for each client. Most clients respond very enthusiastically to hippotherapy treatment and thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to engage with the horse in an environment that is much different than a typical therapy clinic.

Who benefits from hippotherapy?

A wide variety of individulas can experience benefits from hippotherapy. Some diagnoses commonly treated by this therapy include:

Attention Deficit Disorder
Autism
Cerebral Palsy
Closed Head Injury
Developmental Delay
Down Syndrome
Emotional Disorders
Hearing Impairment
Multiple Sclerosis
Muscular Dystrophy
Paralysis
Scoliosis
Spinal Bifida
Traumatic Brain Injury

How to make Pantone’s 2016 color of the year work for you

Experts at the Pantone Color Institute are hinting at upcoming mellowing & calm trends with their choice for this years Color of The Year. Recently for the first time ever they anointed two colors; rose quartz and serenity were selected as the dual colors of the year for 2016 (they are shades of pale pink and baby blue). The pairing can appear solo or as blended shades.

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In the words of Leatrice Eiseman, the Executive Director of the Pantone® Color Institute: “Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.” Rose Quartz is persuasive, gentle and conveys compassion and composure while Serenity compares to the blue sky and provides relaxation. Read on to see some simple ways you can incorporate these two tones into your home.

35983055_066_b — **Paisleys And Damasks Pillowcase Set from Urban Outfitters**

Add printed throw pillows throughout your home. Using a pattern that has both colors create a stunning display especially when placed against a neutral background.

flat,550x550,075,f.u6 — Rose Quartz & Serenity Poster

One of the easiest ways you can stay on trend is to hang art on your wall. Art can be easily changed and if you think outside of the box it can be fairly inexpensive. Think old prints, posters, thrift store finds and tapestries. You could paint frames in these tones as well to subtly incorporate this new trend. This poster to the left uses both colors in a pretty design.

isa-ikat-yarn-dye-table-runner-c — Ikat Printed Table Runners

Table clothes can be easily incorporated into your home with little to no struggle. We love this printed patterned table runner from Pottery Barn.

Adorable accent pieces such as this chair are perfect for incorporating these colors. Think stands, dressers, and bookshelves. You can even upcycle things you already have or come across.

You can see how well the two colors compliment each other and blend in this awesome dresser. Blending the colors adds depth and personality as opposed to having just one flat color and takes full advantage of both of the tones.

Probably at the top of my list for most favorite uses of these colors is this wood paneled wall splashed with Rose Quartz. The wood panels give this hue a beachy and rustic vibe and creates something extremely unique. You could simply paint one wall to create an accent wall in your home with either of the colors. To prevent overkill and to break up the color adorn the wall with mirrors or photographs.

Since trends are always changing we recommend incorporating these colors in smaller pieces as opposed to diving head in. However the designers of the above house have used Serenity Blue so delicately that we don’t think the homeowners will ever fall out of love. You can consider incorporating these colors in your outside decor by changing your siding, painting your shutters or adding window boxes painted with these tones.

We also love this Rose painted door. A bolder move but it works so well!

Once people get over the inevitable baby nursery comments, I think we will easily see a lot of possibility for design. Pastels are extremely versatile and can appeal in all finishes: matte, glossy and metallic. Incorporating these colors into your home can help to create a calm and relaxing environment.

What do you think of Rose Quartz and Serenity? Do you see yourself incorporating them into your home decor? Why or why not? Leave your comments below!

Seasons Greetings!

During the holiday season, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible. It is in this spirit that we say thank you and best wishes for the holidays and New Year.The team at Lundberg Builders wishes you peace, joy and prosperity throughout the coming year. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We look forward to working with you in the new year!

Simple Holiday Decorating

Can you believe it’s already December? If you’re like most of us and have waited to decorate until now check out our list below for ideas that you can do in less time than it takes to hang stockings by the chimney with care.

One of my favorite go to decorations w 0212-ball-cakestand_300 hen I’m in a pinch is using extra ornaments to decorate non traditionally. Place ornaments on a cake stand, in a glass vase or anything else you can
find for an extremely simple, yet stunning centerpiece. You can also use leftover ornaments to decorate windows. Simply tie a ribbon thru and secure to either your curtain rod or a hook affixed to the window.

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For an easy and festive table display gather some doilies (white, silver, red, or gold) and tape them together. Use vases of varying heights filled with ornaments and pine cones. You can even spray paint the pine cones silver, gold or white for an extra special touch. Finish the display off by tying a ribbon around each glass.

Can’t find a wreath this late in the game? Grab a handful of twigs from your yard or the craft store. This simple display makes a wonderful hanging decoration to put on your front door or even above the mantel. To secure this, wrap a wide rubber band around the twig ends. Tuck a sprig of greens, such as rosemary or eucalyptus, inside the rubber band for color. Cover the rubber band with a ribbon.

Have something sitting around that you’re not using or that your child has outgrown? Perhaps an old pair of rain boots? Use those in your front porch display by dressing them up with twigs, greens and ribbon for a welcoming display. You can add weight with rocks to keep the boots from falling over. Here’s just a couple of our favorites.

101048442-2edit — http://www.midwestliving.com/

If you have a birdbath in your yard dress it up with garland, a large red ball, pine cones or any other left over Christmas decorations you have laying around.

original_melissa-michaels-candle-holiday-walkway_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.966.725 — You can use this sweet display to light up your walkways during the upcoming cold wintry nights or even in your window sills (if they’re wide enough). Simply fill mason jars with epsom salt for a snowy look and add votive candles.

If you need a display for your mantel try wrapping empty food boxes in various wrapping papers or fabrics. Finish each package off with a decorative ribbon or flowers. Arrange these on your mantle along with ornaments, pine cones, or candles for a festive display!

Get Your Home Ready for Thanksgiving

Everyone knows what happens when Thanksgiving goes bad—and it can go really bad. really quickly. In fact, one of the busiest days of the year for plumbers is actually the day after thanksgiving. Horror stories of garbage disposal mishaps, sinks that are clogged, and dishwasher meltdowns haunt those homeowners affected by the pressure. With a little advance planning you can avoid most disasters this holiday and actually enjoy it surrounded by your friends and family.

Get your oven in check

Contrary to popular belief…it is not a good idea to run your oven’s self-clean cycle in the days before cooking. The cycle can be so stressful on the appliance that it could cause it to breakdown if you are doing heavy duty cooking in the days after running it. Instead use a damp cloth to wipe around the burners and and save the big clean u download (2) p for after the big day. In addition to this assure your temperature gauge is functioning properly. An easy way to test this is to pick up a cooking thermometer at the grocery store. Place the thermometer in the oven, set it to 300 degrees and wait for it warm up. If the gauge matches then you should be good to go.

Clear Out Old Food

This step is often overlooked, but taking a few minutes to clear out your pantry, fridge, and freezer can save you a huge headache on the big day. These will soon become packed with ingredients, leftovers and of course, a giant turkey. Cleaning them out now will save you a lot of aggravation later.

Child-proof Your Kitchen

Hosting Thanksgiving may involve having family and friends of all age groups. If you are expecting small children or toddlers on Thanksgiving, and it’s been awhile since you’ve had a baby in the house, make sure you go through your home & look for things that could potentially be dangerous. Cover exposed outlets, place dangerous or breakable objects up high, and remove tripping hazards on the floor

Inventory Cookware

Keeping cookware organized can go a long way toward creating an efficient holiday meal. First, assure you have enough 51b831ca68b484c0ff5f8bf64f2cdaae pots & pans to prepare all of the dishes on the menu. Do you have enough dishes, serving platters, and silverware? Use Post-it notes to label each dish with what will be served in it.

Sharpen Knives

You may not notice how much your knives have dulled until you are faced with slicing endless vegetables, meats, and other ingredients.

Rethink Your Seating Areas

Do a headcount ahead of time to be sure you’ve got room for everyone so you’re not left scratching your head and scrambling around. To improve flow and create room for more seats, experiment and move your sofa, chairs and side tables around. Do you have any extra tables and chairs that you could pull out to use? Before you start asking to borrow from friends and family or spend money on rentals, look around your house. Can a table in the office be re-purposed as a kids’ dining table? Cleared-out small bookcases can double as appetizer tables with a table cloth on top. Get creative!

Check Smoke Alarms

Did you know that the greatest number of cooking fires actually occur on Thanksgiving day? Holiday cooking and baking, along with candles and the distraction that parties create, can accidentally create unintentional fires. Before Thanksgiving, test your smoke alarms and make sure they are functioning in all areas. Have a small kitchen fire extinguisher in plain site as well as near the fireplace or any exposed flames.

Avoid Garbage Disposal Breakdowns

No matter how delicious your meal, you’ll inevitably end up with plenty of scraps. To make sure your disposer can keep up, grind hard materials, such as small bones, fruit pits, and ice before everything else. It helps scrape the inside of the disposer and pipes, removing any buildup. Avoid letting non-food items like tea bags, bread ties, and napkin rings fall into the sink where they can cause jams. Don’t put grease or fat down the disposer or any drain. Instead, pour grease into a glass jar or container, and then discard in the trash once it solidifies. Bonus Tip: to give your disposer a fresh scent, grind lemons and other citrus fruits.

Line Baking Dishes With Aluminum Foil

Our favorite clean-up tip: Put aluminum foil on the bottom and sides of baking pans before you start preparing food! When it’s time to eat, you can transfer the baked food into a serving dish and throw out the messy foil. You’ll dr welcome astically cut down pan-scrubbing time.

Prepare for Overnight Guests

Do you have out of town family or friends coming to stay for the holidays? If so make sure your spare rooms & baths are ready before they arrive so your guest will feel welcome.

Make an Emergency Stain-Fighters Kit

When you mix large groups of people (and especially children) with food, spills are all but inevitable. Keep all your stain fighters in one place, close at hand to minimize the damage.

Some handy helpers may include:

Non bleach detergent (carpet stains, urine stains)
Vinegar (carpet stains, urine stains)
Ammonia (carpet stains)
Bleach (solution-dyed carpet stains)
Rubbing alcohol (glue, ink stains)
Hydrogen peroxide (stone countertop stains)
Club soda (fabric stains)
Baking soda (grease splatter, fabric stains)
Lemon juice (fabric stains)
Salt (red wine stains)