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Articles by Amy Mc Cluskey
Where We Live: A Christmas home
Every December the home of Nick and Kimi Vlahakis in Governor’s Land transforms into a beautifully-decorated holiday masterpiece worthy of a magazine cover photo. Each room in the 6,700 square-foot European-villa style home offers a unique landscape of festive decorations ranging from a two-story Christmas tree to 5-foot tall Royal Guards complete with candy cane staffs to hand-painted wooden gingerbread men.
Where We Live: Historic landmark home in Charles City
For decades, a brick house at the very end of Eagles Nest Road in Charles City County sat vacant and dilapidated. With no visible neighbors, the structure was easily forgotten about and was slowly being taken over by weeds and damaged by squatters. In the 1970s, it was close to being bulldozed when preservationists defended its historical importance.
Where We Live: Bacon’s Castle has many stories to tell
Bacon’s Castle in Surry County can lay claim to many things. For starters, the 17th-century mansion is the oldest, brick dwelling still standing in North America; it is one of few remaining structures that has almost continuously been lived in for more than 300 years; it was used a fortress; and it is has – on many occasions – been described as “haunted.” Wealthy tobacco agent Arthur Allen built the mansion in 1665 and lived there with his family for four years until his death in 1669.
Where We Live: Ford’s Colony home is perfect find for newlyweds
Living in Fairfax, Morgan and Conor Dibble were busy young professionals and newly engaged. When they started thinking of where they wanted to settle down, Williamsburg immediately came to mind. Morgan, who is from Newport News, was familiar with the area but not as much as her parents – who are both local Realtors – were. So, when they could, Morgan and Conor would drive down from Fairfax to look at houses with them. “We looked at dozens and dozens,” Morgan said.
Where We Live: Unique Kingspoint home offers relaxing lifestyle
Twenty-five years ago, Roberta (who goes by Bert) and Jack Tier began their search for a home in Williamsburg that would be suited to house both them and Jack’s parents, who were ill. They needed something with an in-law suite or apartment and preferably two bedrooms. Many of the places they looked at didn’t hit the mark. “They really weren’t to our liking,” Bert said. Then the couple came across an ad in the “Just Looking” section of a newspaper.
Where We Live: Brick colonial makes statement in Wexford Hills
When work moved David Copp and his family to Williamsburg two years ago, they spent a lot of time looking at homes and neighborhoods. When they checked out the two-story, 5,000-square-foot brick colonial in Wexford Hills, they knew they had found the one. “We walked in and said oooooh this is what we want,” recalled David Copp. “The house was just what we were looking for.” Indeed, the house has tons of curb appeal. The stone lion statues at the front entrance hint at what’s inside.
Where We Live: A home turned office with local legacy
Like many older homes near Colonial Williamsburg, the blue, two-story, Queen Anne-style Victorian home at 411 Scotland St. has an interesting history. For starters, that’s not where the home was originally built. Built in 1907 by the Lawson family, the home was actually located a few lots down the street and around the corner. For decades it housed Lawson family members, earning it the name “Lawson House.” Eventually, it was bought by Colonial Williamsburg and rented out.
Places to visit on one tank of gas: U.S. Army Transportation Museum
Editor’s note: No need for a plane ticket. Put that passport away. This story is part of a series that features regional attractions outside of the Williamsburg area that can be driven to with less than one tank of gas. Buckle up and hit the road. The at Joint Base Langley-Eustis is a hidden gem that is full of surprises.
Where We Live: A Carlton Abbott-designed home near William & Mary
Lee Kostel always liked acclaimed Williamsburg-based artist and architect Carlton Abbott’s work, so much so that she hired him to design her contemporary home some 20 years ago. For those who may not know, Abbott’s renowned career has spanned decades and produced more than 100 award-winning pieces of art. He was recently recognized by the Virginia Arts Commission as a recipient of the “50 for 50 Arts Inspiration” award.
Where We Live: Perfect fit for family in Highgrove
Often times it’s a collection of things that make a house a home. For Lori and Mike Shirey, their home in the Highgrove neighborhood in York County is perfect for a number of reasons — not just because of the upgraded tile in their kitchen or tray ceiling in the master suite — it’s the whole package. The Shireys and their two young children were living in an older house in Newport News when they began their search for a new home.
Places to visit on one tank of gas: Williamsburg Tasting Trail
Editor’s note: No need for a plane ticket. Put that passport away. This story is part of a series that features regional attractions outside of the Williamsburg area that can be driven to on a tank of gas or less. Buckle up and hit the road. With about 190 craft breweries, 276 wineries and nearly 40 distilleries in the state of Virginia alone, there is no shortage of places to get a drink.
Where We Live: Family home offers lots to love
Laura Feltman jokes that it was the spice rack that sealed the deal when she purchased the sophisticated-looking rancher off John Tyler Highway. But, in actuality, it was the home’s functionality and excellent craftsmanship that sold her. In 2010, with the realization she needed to live closer to her parents and two young nieces — whom her parents were taking care of — Feltman contacted realtor Colleen Haskins to begin searching for property in Williamsburg.
Where We Live: Couple turns Gloucester Point farmhouse into dream home
Tina and Mike Silberhorn make a great couple, not just because they have been married for 26 years and have three great kids, but they’ve also managed to restore an old farmhouse during that time. For some, that may seem like a huge project to take on — one that could cause a lot stress, worry and disagreements — but the Silberhorns have enjoyed every minute of it.
Where We Live: Contemporary home in Yorktown a true labor of love
Small square windows and glass blocks are seen throughout the home. They fit the contemporary design and let in plenty of natural light. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) The Henrys wanted a gazebo, so they'd have a place to sit outside and stay dry in case it rained. Its design is similar to a treehouse. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) The decking that runs along the home features cable railing, which is functional in that it keeps you safe, but also doesn't impede the view.
Where We Live: A quiet, energy-saving home near Jamestown
Mary Rogers has an appreciation for labyrinths, and had one installed in her backyard. Labyrinths can be used for meditation. Buried at the center of Roger's labyrinth is a capsule full of her childrens' hopes and dreams written on paper eight years ago. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Their Energy Saver windows let in a lot of natural light but no heat in the summer or cold in the winter. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Mary Rogers and Ron Shafer love their quiet neighborhood.
Where We Live: Smithfield estate on the James River
A jacuzzi on the outdoor patio overlooks the James River. A spiral staircase offers a quick way to get back upstairs after enjoying an evening dip. (Image courtesy Collier Daily/Red Door Creative) The view of the James River is what led Keith Aveyard to this property in 2005. While he has enjoyed a lot of parties and entertaining at his home, he also enjoyed the quiet and serenity it had to offer.
Where we live: Kingsmill development is all about the view
Burwell's Bluff is the only golf-cart community in Kingsmill with views of the James River, Moody's Pond and River Course. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) A view from the balcony offers tranquil sites such as Moody's Pond and the James River. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Out of the 30 homes, 11 homes are finished, with 12 already sold. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) A view from the balcony offers tranquil sites such as Moody's Pond and the James River.
Where We Live: Gloucester estate ideal home for resort lifestyle
The estate is perfect for those looking for deepwater access. The Chesapeake Bay is only 7 miles down the river.(Image courtesy Brandon Woods) This 6,700-square-foot traditional home features five bedrooms and seven baths. The second-floor master boasts a fireplace, large closets and double vanities.(Image courtesy Brandon Woods) Known as the "River Room," this bottom floor features a wet bar and a 36-foot wall of windows and doors with views of the waterfront and tennis court.
Where We Live: Swiss chalet at The Maine
The cabin-style home is perfect for the Rieses, who are both semi-retired. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Kim and Jim Ries are enjoying the unique Swiss chalet-style home they purchased in First Colony about 18 months ago. In addition to the home, they love the neighborhood and access to the beach, marina and other amenities. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Kim and Jim Ries are enjoying the unique Swiss chalet-style home they purchased in First Colony about 18 months ago.
Italian musician Luca Burgalassi embraces American music, life
Acoustic music lovers will have the opportunity to hear Italian guitarist, composer and singer-songwriter Luca Burgalassi in an evening performance Wednesday (June 20) as part of the Hampton History Museum’s music series. Burgalassi, who only moved to the United States with his family two years ago, has made a name for himself in the local music scene and has connected with audiences in Hampton Roads, offering them a distinct sound and style.
Where We Live: Lakewood home was meant to be
Kathy and Bruce work in the yard quite a bit. Almost all of the home's water features were there when they purchased the home but were overgrown and inoperable. The Williamsons brought them back to life. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) The Williamsons and friends built this arch out of driftwood. Their daughter was married under it not too long ago. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Kathy and Bruce work in the yard quite a bit.
Where We Live: Cozy Yorktown cottage is perfect for empty nesters’ lifestyle
The Mosses really enjoy being outside and worked together to design a beautiful outdoor living space, which includes bird baths, a double-sided fireplace and many flowers and shrubs. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) The Mosses really enjoy being outside and worked together to design a beautiful outdoor living space, which includes bird baths, a double-sided fireplace and many flowers and shrubs.
Where We Live: Innkeepers with a love for preservation
Having made due with substandard bathrooms during renovation phases, the Stavenses made sure their new home offered something more up-to-date. (Image courtesy Sara Harris Photography) The Stavenses designed their home to fit theirs and their families' needs. There is plenty of room to entertain and for guests to sleep over. (Image courtesy Sara Harris Photography) The Stavenses designed their home to fit theirs and their families' needs.
Where We Live: Energy efficient home shines in First Colony
The Craftsman-style home is located in First Colony and sits on almost 1 acre. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) An inverter transfers the solar energy to electric energy, which powers the home and cars. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Pam and Sheldon both drive electric cars, which are powered from their home. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Envelope insulation keeps the house from losing heat in the winter and cool air in the summer.
Where We Live: Kingsmill contemporary offers outdoor oasis
Just past Greg Lilly and Brad Dorris' backyard is a buffer area that will never be developed. This footpath leads directly to Carter's Grove Country Road. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Brad Dorris and Greg Lilly love the home's private backyard. Extensive landscaping over the years has truly turned this lot into a nature retreat. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) Brad Dorris and Greg Lilly love the home's private backyard. Extensive landscaping over the years has truly turned this lot into a nature retreat.
Where We Live: Versatile Yorktown townhome with view of the water
The third floor offers plenty of space and another view of the York River. (Courtesy photo/Kate MacCallum) The townhome is well maintained, has a beautiful water view and could be a permanent home, vacation home or operated as a bed and breakfast. (Courtesy photo/Kate MacCallum) The townhome is well maintained, has a beautiful water view and could be a permanent home, vacation home or operated as a bed and breakfast.
Where We Live: A surprise in Settlers’ Mill
Every light fixture in the home is unique. Even the fans exude a modern vibe. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) The Hopkins have a great eye for detail. Their deck faces a certain way on the lot so that the sun shines on it during the winter, but it stays shaded during the summer. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) The four-foot overhang surrounding the deck is one of the many unique features in the Hopkins's home. (Amy McCluskey/WYDaily) The couple was hands-on during the build process.
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