Random Roanoke

Author: Random Roanoke

  • Top 10 Local Coffee Shops in Roanoke

    Top 10 Local Coffee Shops in Roanoke

    Roanoke’s coffee scene is thriving, with locally owned shops that combine great coffee, community spirit, and a welcoming vibe. Whether you are looking for a place to start your morning, meet up with friends, or grab a quiet spot to work, these ten coffee shops stand out as the best in town.

    1. Sweet Donkey Coffee

    Housed in a historic building, Sweet Donkey Coffee has become a Roanoke favorite. They serve Counter Culture Coffee alongside fresh pastries, waffles, and quiche. The big front porch is the perfect place to relax on a sunny day.

    2. RND Coffee (Roasters Next Door)

    Located in Wasena, RND Coffee is known for its small-batch roasts and creative drinks like Grapefruit-Sage Coffee Soda. The shop has a modern feel and a strong following from coffee enthusiasts who love their unique approach to flavor.

    3. Little Green Hive

    With locations in Grandin Village, Downtown Roanoke, and Daleville, Little Green Hive offers fair-trade coffee, fresh smoothies, and locally sourced treats. It’s a go-to spot for health-conscious customers who don’t want to sacrifice quality coffee.

    4. Chris’s Coffee & Custard

    This community-focused café serves excellent coffee and frozen custard. Known for its “Selfieccino,” which prints your photo on the foam, Chris’s also stands out for its mission of inclusive employment. It’s as inspiring as it is delicious.

    5. Mill Mountain Coffee & Tea

    A Roanoke institution since 1990, Mill Mountain Coffee & Tea is loved for its hand-roasted Arabica blends. With multiple locations, it’s a reliable place to enjoy a warm cup in a cozy, local atmosphere.

    6. Cello Coffee House & Café

    Downtown Roanoke’s Cello Coffee House offers a Mediterranean twist on the café experience. Customers rave about the Turkish coffee, shawarma, and unique lattes that make it more than just a coffee stop.

    7. One Love Coffee House

    A little outside the city in Botetourt County, One Love Coffee House is worth the short drive. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and strong community feel, it’s become a hidden gem for locals.

    8. Second Café

    Small but mighty, Second Café has quickly built a reputation for top-notch coffee and a delightful atmosphere. With a perfect five-star rating, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves supporting up-and-coming local spots.

    9. STEAM Coffee + Eatery

    Known for its stylish interior, STEAM Coffee + Eatery blends modern design with quality brews. It’s a spot where coffee and atmosphere come together to create an inviting space.

    10. Bread Craft

    Best known as a bakery, Bread Craft also delivers fantastic coffee to go with its breads, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s the perfect stop if you want both a handcrafted latte and something fresh from the oven.

    Final Sip

    Roanoke’s coffee culture is all about variety and community. From neighborhood staples to innovative newcomers, these shops offer something for everyone. Next time you’re in the Star City, skip the chain drive-thru and explore the unique flavors of Roanoke’s local coffee scene.

  • A Roanoke Family’s Kitchen Remodel That Changed Everything

    A Roanoke Family’s Kitchen Remodel That Changed Everything

    When Emily and James bought their home in Roanoke, Virginia, they were thrilled with the location and the cozy neighborhood feel. The only problem was the kitchen. It was dark, outdated, and cut off from the rest of the house. The cabinets were showing their age, the counters were stained, and the layout made it impossible for more than one person to cook at a time.

    Like many homeowners, they learned to live with it. For years they cooked family meals in a cramped space and avoided hosting gatherings because the kitchen was too small for entertaining. Over time the frustration grew. When Emily’s parents came to visit one holiday, she realized it was time to make a change. The kitchen was supposed to be the heart of the home, not the one room that made her feel embarrassed.

    The Planning Stage

    The couple decided to finally invest in a remodel. They started by making a wish list of everything they wanted in their dream kitchen. At the top of the list was more natural light, an island with seating, and better storage. Emily wanted modern finishes like quartz countertops and shaker-style cabinets. James cared most about functionality, so he pushed for better lighting, a bigger sink, and open flow into the dining room.

    Once they had their ideas on paper, they met with a contractor who specialized in local remodeling projects. Together they mapped out a plan to knock down a non-load-bearing wall, install recessed lighting, add pendant fixtures over the island, and create a design that blended style with everyday practicality.

    The Renovation Process

    Remodeling is rarely stress-free. For Emily and James, the biggest challenge was living without a functioning kitchen for several weeks. Takeout meals and washing dishes in the bathroom sink became part of daily life. Despite the inconvenience, they were encouraged by the steady progress. Demolition revealed a few surprises, but nothing that threw the project off schedule.

    As the framing and electrical work were completed, they began to see their vision take shape. Cabinets were delivered and installed, instantly transforming the look of the room. New countertops brightened the space, while a tile backsplash added just enough personality without overwhelming the design. The island quickly became the centerpiece. Not only did it add storage, but it also created a natural place for their kids to do homework while dinner was being prepared.

    The Finished Kitchen

    When the last fixture was installed and the protective coverings came off the floor, Emily and James finally stood in their new kitchen. The transformation was dramatic. Natural light filled the space, the open concept design made the home feel larger, and the modern finishes tied everything together. Cooking no longer felt like a chore. It became an experience they could share together.

    Emily loved how the quartz counters reflected the light and made the room feel fresh. James appreciated the deeper sink and the layout that allowed him to move around without bumping into anyone. Most importantly, the couple found themselves inviting friends over again. The kitchen became the center of laughter, conversation, and connection.

    Life After the Remodel

    Months later, Emily still catches herself smiling every time she walks into the kitchen. She says it feels like a completely different house. What was once the most frustrating part of their home is now the one they are most proud of.

    Stories like theirs are common in Roanoke. Homeowners often live with outdated kitchens far longer than they should, thinking the process will be too overwhelming. Yet with the right planning and professional guidance, a kitchen remodel can be smoother than expected and the results more rewarding than imagined.

    If you are a homeowner considering an update, you can learn more about your options for home renovation in Roanoke, VA and see how a well-executed project can transform both a house and the way you live in it.

  • The Rocky Mount Remodel That Transformed a Family’s Home

    The Rocky Mount Remodel That Transformed a Family’s Home

    When the Thompson family bought their home in Rocky Mount, they loved the neighborhood but knew the house needed work. The kitchen felt cramped, the living room was closed off from the rest of the house, and the outdoor space was underused. With two young kids and a busy lifestyle, they wanted an open, welcoming home that would grow with them.

    They started their search for a trusted contractor by asking friends and neighbors for recommendations. The top suggestion was someone with a strong track record of quality work, clear communication, and projects delivered on time.

    From Concept to Construction

    The chosen team began with a detailed design consultation to understand how the family used their home. Together, they developed a plan to open up the main living area, expand the kitchen, and add a covered back porch. The design kept the charm of the original home while improving flow and functionality.

    A Clean, Organized Worksite

    Throughout the remodel, the Thompsons noticed how organized the worksite stayed. Every day, the crew cleaned up before leaving, kept tools in place, and ensured walkways were clear. Dump trailers were used for debris, so nothing piled up in the yard. This attention to cleanliness made living through a renovation much more manageable.

    The Final Reveal

    After weeks of careful work, the Thompsons walked into their transformed home. The kitchen now opened into the living area, with a large island perfect for family meals. The back porch provided a new space for barbecues and quiet evenings outside. The project finished on schedule and exactly as promised.

    Building More Than Homes

    For the Thompsons, this remodel was more than just new floors, cabinets, and walls. It was about creating a space where their family could grow and make memories for years to come.

  • From City Lights to Lakefront Dreams: A Renovation Story at Smith Mountain Lake

    From City Lights to Lakefront Dreams: A Renovation Story at Smith Mountain Lake

    When Chris and Amanda left the busy streets of northern Virginia for the still mornings and shimmering waters of Smith Mountain Lake, they weren’t just looking for a change of pace. They were searching for a total reset.

    They had spent years grinding through corporate life, juggling meetings, daycare pickups, and congested commutes. But every summer, they made a promise to each other on the bow of their rented pontoon boat: “Someday, this will be home.”

    In the spring of 2024, “someday” finally arrived.

    They found a lakefront property tucked in a quiet cove. It wasn’t perfect, but it was full of potential. The home had good bones, but outdated bathrooms, a closed-off kitchen, and water damage in the basement. Still, they saw through the clutter. What others saw as “a lot of work,” they saw as a fresh start.

    That’s when a neighbor introduced them to Wohlford Contracting.

    From the very first visit, it was clear that Wohlford wasn’t just a construction company. They were local guides to the entire Smith Mountain Lake remodeling journey. The Wohlford team listened closely, walked through the home with real vision, and translated Amanda’s Pinterest boards and Chris’s practical concerns into a renovation plan that respected both budget and beauty.

    Amanda laughed, remembering that first design meeting:
    “I told them, ‘I want modern farmhouse, but not too farmhouse. And don’t make it look like a Pinterest house from 2017.’ They actually nailed it.”

    The contractor worked in phases. They started with opening the kitchen, then updated the master suite to include a walk-in shower and a view of the lake. They used local materials, added energy-efficient windows, and converted the outdated deck into a screened-in porch with cedar ceilings and a stone fireplace.

    By late fall, the house felt completely transformed. But never sterile. It still felt like home.

    Chris now works remotely from an office with lake views. Amanda started a candle business from their finished basement studio. Most evenings, they sit on the porch with their dogs, watching the sun melt over the water, and joke about how wild it is that they almost didn’t make the move.

    “I didn’t think we could pull off such a big remodel,” Chris admitted. “But having the right team made it doable. And honestly, kind of fun.”

    If you’re dreaming of your own lakefront reset, whether it’s a kitchen refresh, full home transformation, or a ground-up construction, Smith Mountain Lake has more than just sunsets to offer. It has local pros who know how to bring your dream home to life, step by step, room by room.

    Wohlford Contracting didn’t just build a house for Chris and Amanda.
    They helped build a new chapter.

  • How Replacing Our Windows Changed Our Summer Comfort (and Our Energy Bill)

    How Replacing Our Windows Changed Our Summer Comfort (and Our Energy Bill)

    A Summer Decision That Changed Everything

    When the first hot spell of the season hit in early May, my husband and I looked at each other and said the same thing: “It’s hotter inside than out.”

    That was the moment we knew something had to change.

    We live in a 1980s-style colonial just outside Roanoke. It’s a beautiful home with good bones. But the original windows? Not so great. On sunny days, the living room felt like a greenhouse. On windy nights, you could literally hear the air moving through the frames. For years, we ignored it, thinking, “We’ll get to it next season.” This year, we finally did.

    Why We Finally Replaced Our Windows

    The decision wasn’t just about comfort. It was about energy loss, rising utility bills, and growing frustration with a home that felt less livable in extreme temperatures.

    Here were our main issues:

    • Unbearable heat. Certain rooms would hit over 80 degrees even with the AC running.
    • High cooling costs. Our energy bills climbed every summer with no relief in sight.
    • Moisture and mildew. We noticed condensation and occasional mold on the window sills.
    • Poor curb appeal. The aging frames were starting to show rot and peeling paint.

    Once we started researching, we realized how much of our discomfort came down to inefficient windows.

    The Installation Process Was Easier Than Expected

    After comparing a few contractors, we connected with a local renovation team who specialized in energy-efficient window replacements. From the first consultation, we felt heard. More importantly, we got answers.

    They walked us through window styles, frame options, insulation ratings, and what to expect during the install. The whole process took less than a week from start to finish.

    The Results? Night and Day

    Here’s what we noticed immediately:

    • Cooler indoor temps. Our AC now cycles less, but the home stays comfortable.
    • Noise reduction. The new windows cut down outside noise by 70 percent.
    • Lower utility bills. Our first full-month bill came in nearly 25 percent lower than last summer.
    • Better sleep. Our bedrooms stay cooler and darker thanks to improved window seals and glass options.

    Not only do our rooms feel more livable, but the house looks updated, cleaner, and brighter from the outside.

    Thinking About Doing the Same?

    If you’re battling heat, humidity, or high energy bills this summer, replacing your windows might be the smartest home improvement decision you make this year. It’s not just about looks. It’s about comfort, health, and long-term savings.

    We were able to connect with a trusted local expert who helped us through every step, from consultation to completion. If you’re in Virginia and ready to learn more about upgrading your windows or tackling a bigger renovation project, start here with this home renovation and remodeling resource.

    Pro Tip:
    Ask about double-pane or Low-E glass options for even greater energy efficiency. And don’t wait until peak summer. Booking early can mean faster turnaround and better pricing.

  • Porch Lights & Mountain Mornings: Starting Fresh in Forest, VA

    Porch Lights & Mountain Mornings: Starting Fresh in Forest, VA

    Claire never expected to leave Chicago. She had a corner office, lake views, and a favorite brunch spot just steps from her apartment. But after the pandemic shifted her perspective, and her job to remote, she and her partner Ben started imagining something different.

    “We realized we didn’t need the skyline anymore,” Ben said. “We needed space, community, and a little room to breathe.”

    From Skyscrapers to Forest Pines

    Porch Lights & Mountain Mornings: Starting Fresh in Forest, VA

    A road trip through Central Virginia brought them to Forest. What started as a detour quickly became a destination. Nestled between Lynchburg and the Blue Ridge Parkway, Forest offered the slower pace they craved—without sacrificing access to good coffee or high-speed internet.

    “We pulled into this little town,” Claire recalled, “and suddenly it didn’t feel like we were giving anything up. It felt like we were gaining something.”

    Building a Life from the Inside Out

    Their first home, tucked just off Perrowville Road, had great bones and plenty of potential. The deck needed work, the kitchen was outdated, and the basement begged for purpose. But the quiet street, the towering trees, and the views of the hills sealed the deal.

    They tackled each renovation with care—choosing fixtures, rewiring old lighting, and leaning on local contracting professionals who knew how to bring out the best in a home without losing its character.

    “We wanted modern touches,” Ben said, “but still something that belonged here, in Forest.”

    Living Fully, Locally

    Today, Claire takes morning walks with the dog under canopies of green. Ben has converted the basement into a workshop. They spend weekends exploring Peaks of Otter, sipping cider at local orchards, and connecting with neighbors over potlucks and porch hangs.

    “We came here to slow down,” Claire said. “But what we really did was start living more intentionally.”

  • From Skyline Dreams to Star City Reality: A Couple’s Fresh Start in Roanoke, VA

    From Skyline Dreams to Star City Reality: A Couple’s Fresh Start in Roanoke, VA

    When Sam and Riley left behind the buzz of Northern Virginia for the quiet charm of Roanoke, they weren’t just relocating, they were rebooting. Tired of the traffic, the noise, and the breakneck pace of city life, they found themselves drawn to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the unmistakable pull of something simpler.

    “We came for the weekend and never stopped thinking about it,” Riley says. “It just felt like home.”

    Discovering Roanoke, One Trail at a Time

    There’s something magnetic about the Star City. Maybe it’s the miles of greenway weaving through the valley, or the way the Mill Mountain Star glows like a compass in the night sky. Sam and Riley spent their first months here exploring—bike rides along the Roanoke River, spontaneous art walks downtown, and slow mornings in neighborhood cafés where the baristas remember your name.

    “We found ourselves saying yes more,” Sam adds. “Yes to hiking. Yes to community events. Yes to just being still.”

    Turning a House into Home

    Their new chapter started in a creaky old bungalow tucked between Grandin Village and Wasena. The charm was obvious but so was the work it needed. Rather than shy away from the challenge, the couple saw potential.

    They leaned into the process, working with local professionals to remodel parts of the home while keeping its original character intact. Bit by bit, they stripped wallpaper, refinished floors, and carved out spaces that matched their rhythm, slow mornings, lively dinners, and everything in between.

    More Than Just a Move

    Roanoke, they discovered, wasn’t just a more affordable place to live, it was a more intentional place to live. People waved from porches. Farmers markets offered more than produce, they offered connection. Evenings ended not in gridlock, but with sunsets spilling over the mountains.

    Now, with their porch lights glowing and bookshelves filled, Sam and Riley aren’t looking back. “It’s not just about living somewhere new,” Riley says. “It’s about becoming someone new.”

  • Discovering the Unique Community of Southwest Virginia

    Unveiling Local Gems

    Southwest Virginia, specifically the vibrant city of Roanoke, is a treasure trove of unique experiences and hidden gems. From charming eateries to quaint shops, discovering local businesses allows you to fully appreciate the culture and community. Each corner of this astonishing region tells a story, offering insights into the rich history and traditions that define Roanoke.

    Engaging with Local You

    Connecting with the community can be rewarding for both residents and visitors alike. Engaging with service providers and small business owners opens up a world of opportunities to support local economies while enjoying personalized experiences. Our platform, randomroanoke.com, serves as a local lens into life in southwest Virginia, highlighting the distinctive personalities behind the businesses that make this area special.

    Cultural Happenings and Community Stories

    While exploring Roanoke, you’ll encounter various cultural happenings that showcase the city’s artistic talent and vibrant spirit. From art exhibits to live performances, there’s never a shortage of entertainment. The stories woven into the fabric of this community make it an exciting place to explore, whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor. Join us as we highlight everything that makes Roanoke unique, from its art scene to its local flavors.

  • Discovering the Heart of Southwest Virginia: Roanoke’s Hidden Gems

    Exploring Local Businesses

    Roanoke, Virginia, is a vibrant community filled with unique local businesses that showcase the city’s creativity and spirit. From quaint coffee shops to artisanal bakeries, each vendor has a story to tell. Supporting these small businesses not only fosters community relationships but also enhances the local economy. When you explore the streets of Roanoke, you’ll find plenty of these hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

    Cultural Happenings in Roanoke

    The cultural scene in Roanoke is rich and diverse. Local festivals, art exhibits, and music events contribute to a vibrant atmosphere that welcomes residents and visitors alike. Engaging with these cultural happenings allows you to experience the heart and soul of Southwest Virginia. Look out for upcoming events that highlight local talent and foster a sense of belonging within the community.

    Connecting Through Community Stories

    Every corner of Roanoke tells a story. From the historic landmarks to the bustling markets, community stories bring the area to life. By sharing these narratives, we connect generations and help preserve the unique identity of Southwest Virginia. Join us in exploring these tales that define us, celebrating our successes, challenges, and everything in between.