Bookcase Styling 101

Posted on August 8, 2013 by Arcadia Run

Bookcases are not only a classic place to store your novels but also a vehicle for creativity and expression of style! Make the most out of your bookcase by accentuating it with unique trinkets and sentimental artifacts. We’ve pulled together some inspirational looks to help you get started on arranging your bookcase!

When it comes to arranging books, classic isn’t always better. Try stacking your books horizontally rather than vertically for something different! This also gives you the option of adding a decorative accent like a candle on top the books for more visual appeal.

BHG Horizontal Books

(Image Source: BHG)

Use your bookcase to store craft supplies but do it in an organized, disguised fashion like Kelli of Lolly Jane! Kellie cleverly stored away her crafting tools in mason jars, crates, and trunks. Check out her guide on how to build your own crafting bookcase here!

Lolly Jane Trunk Bookcase

(Image Source: Lolly Jane)

Keep your bookcase functional and organized with storage bins and magazine holders! Just make sure you stick to a set color palette when choosing your organizers so they don’t become distracting. Mix in some decorative pieces to keep it from looking lackluster.

Apartment Therapy Organized Bookcase

(Image Source: Apartment Therapy)

Create a shabby chic look with your bookcase by arranging vintage accents among the books. Visit your local thrift store or antique shop to find some charming one-of-a-kind pieces. Up the vintage vibe with some antique books!

BHG Antique Bookcase

(Image Source: BHG)

If you’re going for a romantic feminine look in your apartment, trying painting the back of your bookcase a fun color like bright pink! Then decorate with neutral colored books, vases and frames to let the color stand out.

Censational Girl Pink Bookcase

(Image Source: Centsational Girl)

Resident Life at Arcadia Run in Manassas, VA

Posted on August 2, 2013 by Arcadia Run

At Arcadia Run, it’s all about modern living and getting use to having more. We express that lifestyle through the features and amenities that let our residents enjoy the finer things in life.

Within your apartment, you will enjoy the life of a gourmet chef right in your kitchen with the granite countertops and designer cabinets. You now can put on a lavish dinner parties for all your friends and impress any guest that comes to your home.

Arcadia Run Kitchen

However, it doesn’t stop there. Outside your apartment home, there are activities galore to keep up with your active lifestyles.

For the athletes, there are jogging trails that offer ways to stay fit and keep on top of your workouts. You can also bring a group of friends to the basketball courts and play a pick-up game to stay happy and healthy!

The fun doesn’t stop there though, because in 2014, a new resort-style swimming pool will be added to the apartments and our residents will enjoy swimming and tanning at the pool as if they were on vacation! Watch out for the pool parties coming to Manassas!

With such a wealth of activities at Arcadia Run, it makes you wonder why you would live anywhere else!

Thai Food Worth Celebrating is at Zabb Thai in Manassas!

Posted on July 25, 2013 by Arcadia Run

There’s something about great Thai food that makes it so much more memorable.

Maybe it’s because the flavors are so bold and spicy and the dishes are so aesthetically pleasing, but we believe finding the best Thai restaurant in a neighborhood is a conquest that, until completed, requires constant vigilance.

Thankfully, if you live in Manassas, you needn’t look further than Zabb Thai restaurant.

Zabb Restaurant

Zabb is all about celebrating great meals, great company and, well, celebrating you. The restaurant offers a trendier, more modern interior than most Manassas places, which makes the place a great destination for dates, girls’ nights out or even just an after-work gathering. The wait staff is superb to match the atmosphere.

But what makes Zabb so great, of course, is the food. Try the salt chili pork and just try to tell us you’re not in love. Looking for a classic? The pad thai wows even those who are Thai food experts.

Zabb also offers a range of vegetarian options, so you can be sure all palates will be happy to head over. Try the wonton soup (get it spicy if you cat take the heat!) and the green curry vegetable, a bright and coconut-y dish that will have you planning a return visit very soon.

Best of all, Zabb Thai restaurant is located close to home at Arcadia Run. Head over for a meal after dinner or stop by Zabb for one of their great lunch or happy hour specials.

We love the atmosphere, style and flavors at Zabb Thai restaurant. Hurry over and consider your Thai food exploration complete.

For more information, “like” Zabb Thai on Facebook!

Image: Zabb Thai

Make Grounds Central Station in Manassas Your New Café!

Posted on July 22, 2013 by Arcadia Run

Not all coffee shops are created equal.

While some specialize in great coffee, others offer an ideal work environment. A certain coffee shop might have excellent service while others open up for great community events.

In Manassas, there’s one coffee shop that does it all: Grounds Central Station.

This café that began as a one-person endeavor has become a community staple in Old Towne Manassas, and it draws people for its excellent roasts, live music and knowledgeable baristas. Pop into Grounds Central Station for a quick cup of piping hot coffee or spend a day there getting work done; the atmosphere is great for writing, reading and finishing a major assignment.

What draws us most to Grounds Central Station, though, is their commitment to the community. When we enter the coffee shop we know we’re at a place that loves this town as much as we do. So whether we’re coming in to catch up with friends over one of their creative lattes or checking out a local musician at one of their open mic nights, we always feel at home at Grounds Central Station.

Head over to Grounds Central Station and see for yourself! It might just become your new favorite coffee shop.

For more information and alerts about upcoming events, “like” Grounds Central Station on Facebook!

Grounds Central Station

Images courtesy of Fun Things To Do in Manassas and Grounds Central Station.

Ride Often and Ride On at Bull Run Bicycles in Manassas

Posted on July 18, 2013 by Arcadia Run

Bull Run Bicycles is more than just a bike shop. It’s a homegrown, family-run Manassas mainstay that we love visiting for tune-ups, test rides or even just some great talk about riding.

The shop and its owners are wholly dedicated to the community, and with a name like Bull Run – The Battle of Bull Run kicked off the American Civil War near here in Manassas – you know it has the community and its storied history in mind first.

Bull Run Bicycles offers a range of bike-related services: you can purchase a new bike at Bull Run or get a fully tuned-up used bike at a competitive price. Bikes come with two years of unlimited adjustments and free tune-ups and the shop always has a mechanic on hand if you need a tune up or some help with your bike. And since the mechanic has spent more than 24 years focusing on bikes, you know your bike will be in safe hands at Bull Run.

The shop also sells bike parts, gear and even unicycles, so any cycling needs you might have will certainly be satisfied at Bull Run.

To add to its community focus, Bull Run also hosts group rides that kick off at the shop, so whether you’re a beginner or an expert rider, you can find a group of like-minded cycling lovers in Manassas.

For more information on Bull Run Bicycles, follow them on Facebook!

Image: Bull Run Bicycles

You’re Invited to the Taste of Prince William Block Party July 13!

Posted on July 2, 2013 by Arcadia Run

On July 13, the whole community is coming to Arcadia Run Apartments to celebrate Prince William County, and this is an event you don’t want to miss.

Taste of Prince William Block Party

The Taste of Prince William Block Party, held July 13 from 12 pm to 4 pm, will show off the best of what makes this community great: it will host more than 30 local businesses and vendors, and have tons of free food and drinks. And bring the kids, because the block party will also have a moon bounce, face painting and music! Grab some cotton candy, slide down the massive bounce house or check out some of the great clubs that you can join in the community. Local band West on 66 will be providing live entertainment, so this is going to be an afternoon that’s all about Prince William and we couldn’t be more excited.

Some of the businesses and groups coming to Prince William include the Nokesville Volunteer Fire Department, Top Choice Pet Care and Origami Owl! You can find a full list and RSVP to the event here.

But wait, there’s more! Arcadia Run will also be holding a sweepstakes for block party attendees and the winner gets a $250 Visa gift card! And the rules are simple: “Like” Arcadia Run on Facebook and check back every day between July 8-12 to answer daily clues about local businesses. Every correct answer puts you in the running for a $25 gift card from the featured local business and makes you eligible for the $250 Visa gift card.

Don’t forget, this event is free and open to the public, so whether you come the whole time or just for some popcorn, be sure to make it out to the Taste of Prince William Block Party! We can’t wait to see you!

Taste of Prince William Sweepstakes

Make Your Way to Sister Restaurants Carmello’s and Monza in Downtown Manassas!

Posted on June 27, 2013 by Arcadia Run

Our new favorite sister restaurants are Carmello’s and Monza Italian in downtown Manassas.

Located a short drive away from Arcadia Run, these two restaurants are ideal for a night out. And while they each offer a distinct menu and atmosphere, both are guaranteed to be a hit; these restaurants know authentic European food.

Carmello’s specializes in find Portugese food, which includes an extensive, and irresistible, list of Portugese wines. So whether you’re a wine snob or just looking for a delicious vino, Carmello’s has you covered.

The food at Carmello’s is bright, fresh and made with meticulous attention to detail. And since the meals are crafted with local food made at its peak season in mind, Carmello’s menu changes seasonally. We love the Lambo de Porco – a mouthwatering combination of prosciutto, risotto, pork tenderloin, shittake mushrooms and golden raisins in a delicious wine sauce. If you’re feeling particularly authentic, don’t miss the Mussels Portuguesas, mussels made to perfection (but warning: you just might start scoffing at the dish at other restaurants!). And for dessert? You must try the mascarpone mousse.

Carmello's

And the best part about having sister restaurants is that you can go to both in one night, if you want! Waiting for your table at Carmello’s? Head over for a pre-dinner drink at Monza. When it’s time, it’s no problem bringing your drink over to the Portugese restaurant. And the same goes for the opposite.

We love Monza Italian and their diverse selection of pastas, salads and sausages. And one of the best parts about Monza is that you’ll sit down to a delicious meal without feeling overstuffed at the end; the food is decadent without being overbearing. And Monza boasts an impressive beer menu; few fine restaurants have such a variety of bottled brews! From brick oven pizzas to creative pastas – we strongly suggest the Jack’s Special, a Monza favorite, and every time you order the entree Monza donates $1 to the Wounded Warrior Project and Oral History Fund! – the food at Monza is affordable and delicious. And the flavors you get here are hard to find anywhere else, so look no further than Monza!

We don’t know many sister resturants that have such different menus but share such similar dedication to only serving up the best possible dish. But that’s what you’ll find at Monza Italian and Carmello’s Portugese Restaurant, and you’ll be glad you came.

For more information on the sister restaurants, “like” them both on Facebook! Monza | Carmello’s

Image: Carmello’s

Get A Taste of New Orleans at Okra’s Cajun Creole!

Posted on June 20, 2013 by Arcadia Run

Whether you’re craving some hearty, Southern comfort food or are just looking for a new place to grab a meal in Manassas, look no further than Okra’s Cajun Creole.

This casual restaurant, located at the corner of Center and Battle Streets, has gone beyond simply serving up hearty and flavorful Cajun food, it’s a true Manassas community fixture.

Image: Yelp

Okra’s first came to Manassas in 1998 with humble beginnings. A small restaurant that hoped to bring New Orleans to Northern Virginia quickly drew the vibrance of Louisiana and Mardis Gras to Manassas! Okra’s hosts a Mardis Gras parade in Manassas yearly, that includes marching bands, bright costumes, Nawlins music and tons of Cajun food. Okra’s has brought a few other Louisiana traditions up to Manassas as well, including crawfish boils and smaller festivals for the community.

Since Okra’s start in Manassas, it’s grown to become a large staffed restaurant, but it continues to serve community members with the same inviting and warm atmosphere it had 15 years ago.

And it’s that atmosphere will make you nostalgic for New Orleans – whether you’ve been before or not. Jazz music plays throughout the restaurant and the decor is as colorful and eclectic as what you’d find in the South. Sip on an Abita beer – a Louisiana favorite that is always on draft at Okra’s – and get transported to New Orleans. The bar atmosphere at Okra’s is consistently complimented for its welcoming feel, variety of Louisiana drinks and creative bartenders.

But of course, Okra’s is most memorable for its incredible Cajun food.

Image: Okra’s

The food at Okra’s is totally fresh and made based on what’s best that season. In fact, Okra’s redoes its menu every season to include only the freshest ingredients. Our favorite dishes are the crawfish and the fried oysters, two Louisiana staples that Okra’s has truly mastered. Grab a side of their flavorful corn bread and you’ll be drowning in delicious food! The fried oyster po’ boys are also a great way to maximize your New Orleans experience at Okra’s.

Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t forget to try the gator bites.

Come to Okra’s during Mardi Gras and the restaurant has even more specials and offerings than usual. From a traditional Nawlins “King Cake” to the beads and music, you’ll feel as though you’re in Louisiana! And since it’s located so close to Arcadia Run, New Orleans never feels too far from home.

Head over to Okra’s for an Abita and appetizer at Happy Hour or bring friends and dive into their varied and tempting menu for dinner. Between the atmosphere and food, you’ll be sure to have a great time.

For more information on Okra’s Cajun Creole, “like” them on Facebook!

Enjoy $500 Off Rent and Delicious Gelato at Arcadia Run

Posted on June 13, 2013 by Arcadia Run

We know it’s sweltering, so come to Arcadia Run‘s Beat The Heat Open House Saturday, June 15 from 11 am to 3 pm and explore our community while enjoying a treat from our gelato cart. In addition, a representative from Comcast will be giving out pizza from Gainville’s Vocelli Pizza! So whether you are craving a sweet treat or something a bit heartier, Arcadia Run has you covered.

And among the range of creative offerings at our open house is a Blue Moon flavored gelato! Adults with proper ID can try this unique flavor, a certain cure for the heat.

Arcadia Run is where you get used to getting more, and our Beat The Heat event is just one of the many ways we want you to get to know what makes this community so luxurious. And as a new apartment community in Manassas, this public event is so that we can get to know the neighborhood! As if that wasn’t enough, you can get $500 off your first month’s rent on select units if you move in by July 31st!

And if you like what you see, you’ll be happy to know Arcadia Run will be waiving application fees on June 15! So head over to the Beat The Heat Open House and enjoy some Arcadia Run with a side of refreshing gelato. We’ll see you there!

For more information on Arcadia Run, visit our website.

Gelato

Image: OC Foodies

Make Your Own Canvas Art and Liven Up Your Walls!

Posted on June 6, 2013 by Arcadia Run

Who said owning beautiful wall art means breaking the bank?

In fact, you’ll save money and take pride in the work you display at home if you make it yourself.
And with these easy DIY ways to create canvas art and simple wall hangings, you’ll surprise your guests when they find out your stunning artwork is the product of a couple dollars, a little elbow grease and a burst of your own creativity.

Canvas art and DIY wall hangings have been popular these days, particularly type-heavy pieces. Pick a quote you adore, choose a font that vibes with you (dafont offers a great, categorized guide to different fonts) and turn it into a stencil. From there, grab a little paint and you’re off!

Image: Bungalow Classic

If you’re interested in creating something a bit more abstract, we suggest heading to a local craft store and purchasing a canvas or three. Made2Style has an excellent guide for creating beautiful canvas art at a low cost.

Image: Made2Style

If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious, your canvas work can take on multiple layers and hues. We love this canvas art, created merely with painters tape and a palette of paints. It’s vibrant, striking and the pattern adds an artistic edge to any wall.

Image: Home of Bambou

Once again, a bit of painters tape and a spectrum of color can go a long way.

Image: Maria Teorien

Want to create your own artwork, but don’t want to paint it yourself? We love these canvases from Style Lush Blog. She took scrapbook paper and, using spray adhesive, transferred the sheet’s design onto a blank canvas. The result is ordered, gorgeous and pain-free!

Image: Style Lush Blog

No matter how you choose to put it together, the beauty of DIY canvas art is that you can make it entirely yours.

And that is a beautiful thing.