Issuu

VOLUME 26, ISSUE 2

DELCHESTER MAIN LINE WEST

AAA Hellenic Marble Guidance to find the perfect stone products for your next project page 11

ASK THE EXPERT

ONE DAY DOORS & C LOSETS OF PHILLY The difference new interior doors can make page 27

THE 2026 ANNUAL RESOURCE DIRECTORY Sponsored by First State Building & Design

Hundreds of home improvement professionals at your fingertips

Your #1 Resource and Design Magazine • Visit www.HouseMagazine.com to view our Online Design Center

VOLUME 26 ISSUE 2

DELCHESTER/ MAIN LINE WEST

Beechdale Builders Meeting the challenge and exceeding customer expectations page 23

ASK THE EXPERT

ONE DAY DOORS & C LOSETS OF PHILLY The difference new interior doors can make page 27

THE 2026 ANNUAL RESOURCE DIRECTORY Sponsored by First State Building & Design

Hundreds of home improvement professionals at your fingertips

Your #1 Resource and Design Magazine • Visit www.HouseMagazine.com to view our Online Design Center

VOLUME 26, ISSUE 2

DELCHESTER MAIN LINE WEST

A.W. VIOHL Combining decades of experience with a personal approach page 21

ASK THE EXPERT

ONE DAY DOORS & C LOSETS OF PHILLY The difference new interior doors can make page 27

THE 2026 ANNUAL RESOURCE DIRECTORY Sponsored by First State Building & Design

Hundreds of home improvement professionals at your fingertips

Your #1 Resource and Design Magazine • Visit www.HouseMagazine.com to view our Online Design Center

VOLUME 26, ISSUE 2

DELCHESTER/ MAIN LINE WEST

Spring Creek Design The benefits of an aging-in-place suite page 25

ASK THE EXPERT

ONE DAY DOORS & C LOSETS OF PHILLY The difference new interior doors can make page 27

THE 2026 ANNUAL RESOURCE DIRECTORY Sponsored by First State Building & Design

Hundreds of home improvement professionals at your fingertips

Your #1 Resource and Design Magazine • Visit www.HouseMagazine.com to view our Online Design Center

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july/august 2026

ANNUAL RESOURCE DIRECTORY

12 contents

11 Hard Choices AAA Hellenic offers expert guidance on picking the right stone materials for your project.

12 Annual Resource Directory Sponsored by First State Building & Design House & Home’s annual listing of the top home improvement companies in the region.

21 A Contractor for All Seasons A.W. Viohl delivers high-quality remodeling projects all year long.

owner Sam King has turned a passion into a thriving company with countless happy clients.

25 Ask the Expert: Spring Creek Design 27 Ask the Expert: One Days Doors & Closets of Philly 28 Elevating for Entertainment Simple upgrades to transform your outdoor living space.

36 The New Flex Space Garages are becoming much more than a place to park the car.

23 A True Calling Beechdale Builders’

28 HouseMagazine.com

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PUBLISHER Edward P. McCartney EDITOR Peter Proko ASSISTANT EDITOR Matt Cosentino CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Giana Scafide, Abigail Twiford CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hank Alspach PRODUCTION MANAGER Brian Mikulski DESIGNERS Eileen Pullia, Lisa Zollinger ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR Darlene Versak SALES DIRECTOR Lindsay Gonzalez SALES MANAGER Jim Romano NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPER Chuck McKane MARKETING CONSULTANTS Nicole Corabi, Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, Lori Vorgang, Amy B. Weiss DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Max Haggerty DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Leigh Stuart PUBLISHER EMERITUS Bob Doran EXECUTIVE PARTNERS Gerry Haggerty, Edward P. McCartney

HOUSE & HOME HOUSE & HOME Magazine, LLC, dba HOUSE & HOME (“H&H”). H&H reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. H&H is not responsible for loss, damage or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork or any other unsolicited materials. Furthermore, H&H will assume that unsolicited photographs, as well as ad photographs, are being submitted for possible publication and should they be published, no fee is due the photographer or model unless otherwise agreed upon in advance in writing. HOUSE & HOME is a regional home improvement and design magazine focused on remodeling, renovation, design inspiration, and connecting homeowners with local home service professionals. H&H does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does H&H or its staff, editors or writers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publications. Readers are encouraged to notify H&H if they suspect false or misleading advertising. Before attempting any renovation or repair project mentioned in H&H, readers are advised to consult with professional home repair and renovation specialists for assistance, and to take any and all appropriate safety precautions. HOUSE & HOME has not independently tested any products or services advertised herein and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. HOUSE & HOME. makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products. No reproduction of printed materials is permitted without the consent of the publisher of HOUSE & HOME. Copyright 2012 by HOUSE & HOME. Magazine, LLC, all rights reserved. Subscription available for home delivery at our website, www.HouseMagazine.com, at a cost of $19.95 per year.

National Sales Office: HOUSE & HOME Magazine, LLC 700 E. Main St. Norristown, PA 19401 Phone: 610-272-3120 Fax: 610-272-2805 Email: info@housemagazine.com

Regional Editions: Bucks County HOUSE & HOME – PA Central Jersey HOUSE & HOME – NJ Delaware HOUSE & HOME – DE DelChester/Main Line West HOUSE & HOME – PA Montco/Main Line East HOUSE & HOME – PA Northern Jersey HOUSE & HOME – NJ South Jersey HOUSE & HOME – NJ

Visit www.HouseMagazine.com to view digital versions of each of the above editions. Follow us on

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PARTNER PROFILE

Expertise: M A R B L E , G R A N I T E A N D T I L E

ask the expert Liz Hunter by

AAA Hellenic

TONE MATERIALS ARE ESSENTIALLY THE ICING OF ANY KITCHEN OR BATHROOM PROJECT, PROVIDING BOTH THE FUNCTIONAL VALUE OF PULLING THE ROOM’S COMPONENTS TOGETHER AND SOMETHING PLEASING FOR THE EYE. Choosing the perfect stone takes careful consideration, and the guidance of someone who knows the product. At AAA Hellenic, customers can turn to professionals who have decades of experience designing and installing stone in kitchens, bathrooms, foyers, fireplaces and even in outdoor living spaces. Mike Werner, sales manager, is one such expert who has been with the family-focused company for more than 10 years. House & Home spoke with Werner about how new products from Silestone and Dekton are giving people the high-end looks they’ve wanted at a more reasonable price.

WHEN YOU MEET WITH CLIENTS, WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THEIR LIFESTYLE TO GUIDE THEIR SELECTION?

Most individuals typically have saved pictures they found online or in magazines to establish an idea of their design preferences. We also want to know about what’s going on in the space where the stone will be used. Every household is different. Materials they might like or find attractive might not be the best choice for their home. Granite is very dense and durable. It is heat resistant and scratch resistant, with minimal maintenance. Marble

Mike Werner, sales manager

West Chester, Pa. (610) 344-7700 | AAAMarble.com

is a classic choice with unrivaled beauty and gives you a timeless look. It may be a little softer than granite, but will still give you a very durable surface. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THE EMERGING POPULARITY OF NATURAL STONE QUARTZITE AND YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF IT?

Engineered quartz has gained popularity over the past couple of years, but natural stone is still the most requested for its beauty and durability. Natural stone quartzite is an especially good choice for kitchens. Everyone likes the look of marble, but it’s softer and more porous. Quartzite is a dense stone that can handle the impact and functionality in a kitchen, and it’s not as porous. We directly import this stone from the quarries to our facility, which enables us to

pass discounted pricing on to clients for rare quartzites in a wide variety of colors. The materials are temperamental and require a high level of care and precision, which Hellenic excels and specializes in. WHAT ARE THE NEWEST MATERIALS ON THE MARKET AND WHERE ARE THEY BEST USED IN THE HOME?

We’re really excited about the design potential with products from Silestone and Dekton in shower wall and bathroom applications. People have been longing for a solid-slab, seamless look on their shower walls—nobody likes grout joints—but this comes with additional labor to get these large slabs into tight shower spaces. These new products are more durable and thinner, making them easier to transport and install. Silestone is engineered quartz and in particular has some nice combinations of natural stone-looking materials, as well as muted patterns for the monochromatic look people want. Dekton is a porcelain and glass hybrid with quartz that is more durable and still gives that desirable natural stone look. This is something that we are specializing in. HOW CAN CUSTOMERS ARRANGE TO VISIT YOUR SLAB YARD TO SEE THEIR OPTIONS?

Our slab yard is open by appointment so we can control the amount of people in the building at a time, everything is spaced out and we also have outdoor inventory available weather permitting. We have implemented additional safety measures, including UV light systems and UV air purifiers to reduce airborne contaminants and provide more peace of mind for customers. We also offer virtual appointments. Our inventory of marble, granite, soapstone and quartzite is very strong right now, we’ve added a lot of new products for people. We have about 200 different colors on display, and our stones are directly imported from places like Italy, Brazil and Africa. It’s always beneficial to walk through and see the stone in different lighting, and more often than not, people find something they never expected. HouseMagazine.com

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Presenting the 2026 HOUSE & HOME

ANNUAL RESOURCE DIRECTORY The most comprehensive collection of local home improvement companies AIR CONDITIONING/ HEATING/INSULATION/ PLUMBING Abbey Plumbing & Heating 215-643-6645 abbeyplumbing.com C&C Heating and Air Conditioning 267-599-8002 cc-hvac.com Home HVAC Services 484-886-4297 homehvacservices.com McHales, Inc. 215-488-7306 mchales.net R&D Heating & Cooling 610-444-6421 rdhvac.com APPLIANCES Hawkins & Sons Appliances 302-998-5587 hawkinsandsons.com

ARTIFICIAL GRASS/ MINI GOLF Artificial Grass Turf Warehouse 201-971-2323 Artificialgrassturfwarehouse.com ASPHALT/PAVING/ SEALCOATING Burke Asphalt 484-228-1776 burke-asphalt-paving.com

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Dreammaker Bath & Kitchen of Chester County 610-484-2000 www.dreammakerremodel.com/chester-county E&E General Contracting

Marygrove Awnings 1-800-44-AWNING www.marygrove.com

Rhino Waterproofing Solutions 484-996-3600 rhinowps.com

BASEMENT FINISHING/ WATERPROOFING/ FOUNDATION REPAIR

StoneBridge Renovations 484-459-4920 sb-renovations.com

Family owned and operated, specializing in full exterior and interior remodeling projects which include kitchens and bathrooms, additions, siding, roofing, windows, doors, decks, tone work and more. Committed to providing excellent craftsmanship with integrity and an attitude of service. 717-442-4814 eecontracting.com

Aquadry Basement Waterproofing Experts 215-432-7122 aquadrybasements.com

BUILDERS/CONTRACTORS/ REMODELERS

Directory Sponsor SPOTLIGHT

AWNINGS

Basement Waterproofing Specialists

Beechdale Builders 717-278-3683 beechdalebuildersllc.com

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ments, from concept through completion. 302-803-5082 firststatebuildinganddesign.com Gehman Design Remodeling 215-513-0300 gehmanremodeling.com Lennar Home Builders 302-660-1366 lennar.com National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Bucks-Mont Chapter 215-822-8626 215-340-0279 bucksmontnari.org National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) DelChester Chapter 610-363-8001 delchesternari.org Pencroft Ridge Construction 717-786-4124 pencroftridgeconstruction.com

Brindisi Builders 877-284-5353 brindisibuilders.com

K & A Appliance, Inc (717) 392-3287 www.kaappliance.com Robert Stevens Appliances 215-742-7444 215-638-9494 robertstevensappliance.com

tion American contractor. Serving the entire region, they are headquartered in a refurbished 150-year-old stone farmhouse. They provide an extensive array of services to virtually any issue related to waterproofing, foundation structural repairs and/or replacement, drainage systems, mold inspection, remediation and much more. 800-700-9171 basementwaterproofing specialists.com

Rolf Schroeder General Contractor 215-201-2195 rolfschroedergc.com Spring Creek Design 484-364-1213 springcreekdesign.net HouseMagazine.com

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SPONSORED BY

The CabinetTree Design Studio 856-888-2220 cabinettree.com

StoneBridge Renovations 484-459-4920 sb-renovations.com

The Cabinet Shop 609-463-0400 cabinetshopnj.com

BUILDING SUPPLY Brandywine Building Supply 610-273-3817 brandywinebuildingsupply.com CABINETRY/STORAGE Art of Drawers 610-744-3207 artofdrawers.com Shelf Genie 609-595-4342 www.shelfgenie.com CABINETS/WOOD MOLDING/ MILLWORK Diamond Millwork 717-354-3999 diamondmillworkpa.com Dilworth’s Custom Design Family-owned and operated, we offer full service custom home improvements from start to finish. We offer a wide range of custom cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms and any other area

HOUSE

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of the home or office that requires a custom touch. 610-917-9119 dilworthscustomdesign.com Fine Finish Design 856-689-6718 finefinishdesignnj.com Holcomb Cabinetry 302-478-5000 holcombcabinetry.com Kitchen Tune-Up 484-435-7430 kitchentuneup.com/main-line-pa Main Line Kitchen Design, LLC 610-500-4071 mainlinekitchendesign.com Signature Woodcraft 267-736-9740 signaturewcraft.com Sunny Cove Cabinetry 717-500-4540 sunnycovecabinetry.com

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The Chimney Scientists 610-909-5585 thechimneyscientists.com

Victory Closets 484-366-1836 victoryclosets.com

CLOCK REPAIR

CONCRETE/ DECORATIVE CONCRETE

Antiques and Clocks 856-786-3444 antiquesandclocks1@gmail.com

CABINET REFINISHING Capital Kitchen Refacing, LLC 267-907-3591 capitalkitchenrefacing.com Kitchen Tune-Up 484-435-7430 kitchentuneup.com/main-line-pa Let’s Face It 267-422-7200 610-546-3500 215-795-5353 lfikitchens.com CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Home Builders Association of Delaware 302-678-1520 hbade.org CHIMNEY/FIREPLACES Midtown Chimney Sweeps 215-814-0377 www.midtownsweeps.com

CLOSET ORGANIZATION/ GARAGE ORGANIZATION Closet Factory Delaware Valley 215-268-7660 closetfactory.com/locations/dela ware-valley Closets By Design SE Penn 866-278-8881 closetsbydesign.com Closets For Less 215-660-3080 closets4lessbucks.com Diplomat Closet Design 610-431-3500 diplomatclosetdesign.com One Day Doors & Closets of Philly 267-508-7906 onedayphilly.com/promo12

Architectural Concrete Design 866-956-2818 acdconcrete.com Burke Asphalt 484-228-1776 burke-asphalt-paving.com DECKS Amazing Decks 833-774-8646 anotheramazingdeck.com Archadeck of Delaware 302-455-2426 delaware.archadeck.com Carranza Roofing & Remodeling 610-671-3747 carranzacontracting.com Deck Craft Plus, LLC 610-273-3317 deckcraftplus.com Deck Guardian 908-332-8616 deckguardian.com

HouseMagazine.com

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Decks-R-Us 717-407-5623 decksrusllc.com

SPONSORED BY

E&E General Contracting 717-442-4814 eecontracting.com

Directory Sponsor SPOTLIGHT

Gas Works, Inc.(& The Vintage Mantel) 610-296-3557 4gasworks.com FLOORING Boyles Floor & Window Designs 610-429-9773 boylesflooring.com Hampstead Floor Company 267-396-6107 hampsteadfloorcompany.com

First State Building & Design First State Building & Design is a premier design-build firm specializing in outdoor living spaces, decks, patios, porches and additions, plus luxury kitchens, bathrooms and basements, from concept through completion. 302-803-5082 firststatebuildinganddesign.com Get Decked 302-897-0302 getdeckedinc.com Hynes Construction 610-896-6388 hynesconstruction.com Keystone Outdoor Living 717-936-9590 keystonecustomdecks.com Pencroft Ridge Construction 717-786-4124 pencroftridgeconstruction.com Sequoia Out Back 215-918-DECK (3325) 866-650-DECK (3325) 215-368-RAIL (7245) decksupplies.com

FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES Country Lane Furniture

The area’s largest selection of locally handcrafted Amish and Mennonite solid wood furniture at affordable prices. Family owned and operated since 1989. All in-store items are available for immediate pick-up or we can deliver in our own truck. Shipping nationwide is also available. We also offer custom design, build and Installation. Come visit us ... it’s worth the drive. Annville, Pa. | 717-867-5701 countrylanefurniture.com

GAME ROOM FURNITURE Royal Billiard & Recreation, Inc. 215-997-7777 royalbilliard.com

DECORATIVE PAINTING GARAGE DOORS Artistic Impressions Decorative Painting 215-397-8962 artisticimpressionspa.com ELEVATORS 101 Mobility 855-For-Lift 101mobilityphiladelphia.com FENCING/GATES/ IRONWORK/RAILINGS

Jammer Doors 609-883-0900 | 800-448-1920 jammerdoor.com The Jaydor Company (215) 385-5571 jaydorco.com ProLift Garage Doors 267-337-5355 proliftdoors.com GARDEN CENTERS / NURSERIES

Lomonaco’s Iron Concepts & Home Decor, LLC 856-740-1071 liciron.com

Elite Gardens & Greenhouse 833-354-8303 elitegardensandgreenhouse.com

FIREPLACES

GARAGE FLOOR RESURFACING

Brubacker Hearth & Home 717-216-4993 brubackerhearthandhome.com

Floorguard 484-880-4302 floorguardeast.com

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SPONSORED BY

GENERATORS/ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

Colonial Marble & Granite 215-999-6995 colonialmarble.net

Colonial Generators 844-376-9374 colonialgenerators.com

GRILLS/OUTDOOR KITCHENS

GRANITE/MARBLE/STONE REFINISHING

Colonial Marble & Granite 215-999-6995 colonialmarble.net

AAA Hellenic Marble Inc. 610-344-7700 aaamarble.com

Directory Sponsor SPOTLIGHT

Colonial Marble & Granite 215-999-6995 colonialmarble.net Imperial Marble & Granite 610-738-5277 imgstone.net Sir Grout Delaware 302-527-6242 sirgroutdelaware.com GRANITE/MARBLE COUNTERTOPS All Marble, Granite, & Tile Imports 856-354-4747 allmarblegranite.com

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Sequoia Out Back 215-918-DECK (3325) 866-650-DECK (3325) 215-368-RAIL (7245) decksupplies.com

Newtown Fireplace Shop 215-968-3981 newtownfireplaceshop.com Rolf Schroeder General Contractors 215-672-0829 rolfschroedergc.com Royal Billiard and Recreation 215-997-7777 royalbilliard.com

spaces, decks, patios, porches and additions, plus luxury kitchens, bathrooms and basements, from concept through completion. 302-803-5082 firststatebuildinganddesign.com

Sequoia Out Back 215-918-DECK (3325) 866-650-DECK (3325) 215-368-RAIL (7245) decksupplies.com

Landesign Hardscapes & Masonry 610-792-1714 ldhmbusiness.com

HARDSCAPING/PAVERS/ RETAINING WALLS

Luxscapes Unlimited 717-208-1123 luxescapesllc.com

Brandywine Quarry 610-857-4200 brandywinequarry.com

Pine Ridge Outdoor Living 484-500-4343 pineridgeenterprizes.com

DiCenso Landscaping 267-450-4236 dicensolandscaping.com

Ronni Hock Garden & Landscape 609-844-0066 ronnisgarden.com

Directory Sponsor SPOTLIGHT First State Building & Design First State Building & Design is a premier design-build firm specializing in outdoor living

Schnatz & Rohrer Landscaping 610-696-5108 schnatzandrohrerlandscaping.com

Smucker’s Hardscape & Outdoor Living 717-940-2376 shoutdoorliving.net The Paver Doctor 856-210-6843 Traboscia Co.

Traboscia Co. specializes in expert patio paver and hardscaping installations that transform outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional living areas. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and lasting results, we bring your vision to life. Trusted by homeowners throughout the region. Call today for a free consultation! 610-490-8464 www.trabosciaco.com

HouseMagazine.com

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SPONSORED BY

HELOC/MORTGAGES TruMark Credit Union 877-TRUMARK trumark.com HOME THEATERS/HOME AUTOMATION/SECURITY Shore Sound & Cinema 609-645-1300 s2cinema.com INTERIOR DOORS One Day Doors & Closets of Philly 267-508-7906 onedayphilly.com/promo12 KITCHEN/BATH DESIGN AAA Hellenic Marble 610-344-7700 aaamarble.com

610-917-9119 dilworthscustomdesign.com Dreammaker Bath & Kitchen of Chester County 610-484-2000 www.dreammakerremodel.com/chester-county E&E General Contracting 717-442-4814 eecontracting.com

Directory Sponsor SPOTLIGHT

A.W. Viohl Contracting

Locally-owned and family-operated, A. W. Viohl Contracting, LLC provides turn-key renovation and contracting services to Delaware and Pennsylvania. Since 2008, we have had the privilege of servicing he needs of hundreds of satisfied homeowners. Our mission has been to build a business based on honesty and integrity, providing quality workmanship at a competitive price. We are not satisfied until you are. Contact for all your needs. 302-375-6166 viohlcontracting.com Bath Tune-Up 484-383-5218 bathtuneupmainline.com Colonial Marble & Granite 215-999-6995 colonialmarble.net Concept Kitchen & Bath 302-999-9150 www.ConceptKB.com Dilworth’s Custom Design Family-owned and operated, we offer full service custom home improvements from start to finish. We offer a wide range of custom cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms and any other area of the home or office that requires a custom touch. HouseMagazine.com

First State Building & Design First State Building & Design is a premier design-build firm specializing in outdoor living spaces, decks, patios, porches and additions, plus luxury kitchens, bathrooms and basements, from concept through completion. 302-803-5082 firststatebuildinganddesign.com HomeTech Renovations, Inc. 215-646-7477 htrenovations.com Inspiration Kitchen & Bath 610-448-9919 inspirationkitchenandbath.com Kitchen Tune-Up 484-435-7430 kitchentuneup.com/main-line-pa Rolf Schroeder General Contractors 215-201-2195 rolfschroedergc.com Spring Creek Design 484-364-1213 springcreekdesign.net The Cabinet Shop 609-463-0400 cabinetshopnj.com The CabinetTree Design Studio 856-888-2220 cabinettree.com

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SPONSORED BY

Timeless Stone 215-249-1555 timelessstonefab.com KITCHEN CABINET REFACING Kitchen Tune-Up 484-435-7430 kitchentuneup.com/main-line-pa Let’s Face It 267-422-7200 610-546-3500 215-795-5353 lfikitchens.com

Imperial Marble & Granite (610) 738-5277 imgstone.net Timeless Stone 215-249-1555 timelessstonefab.com MOSQUITO/PEST CONTROL Mosquitonix 215-260-1712 mosquitonix.com MULCH/STONE/SOIL

LANDSCAPE DESIGN/BUILD Elite Gardens & Greenhouse 833-354-8303 elitegardensandgreenhouse.com Global World Design 888-801-1774 globalscape.us Nickett Landscaping 215-345-1385 nickettlandscaping.com Ronni Hock Garden & Landscape 609-844-0066 ronnisgarden.com Smucker’s Hardscape & Outdoor Living 717-940-2376 shoutdoorliving.net LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Bright Services 215-357-3058 brightservicesgroup.com Vesta Lights 484-666-0551 vestalights.com

The Mulch Barn 215-256-8870 mulchbarnsupply.com Victory Gardens Inc. 215-443-5665 victorygardensinc.com OUTDOOR FURNITURE Country Tyme Sheds 267-834-0211 countrytymesheds.com Hetrick Gardens 610-327-9066 hetrickgardens.com

Ted’s Pools 610-359-1301 tedspools.net

Fox Country Sheds 717-626-9560 Foxsheds.com

S & M Paving 800-778-6977 smpaving.com

PRESSURE WASHING

Pine Ridge Outdoor Living 484-500-4343 pineridgeenterprizes.com

POOL & SPA/HOT TUB/ DESIGN/INSTALLATION

Rhino Exteriors 484-996-3600 rhinonext.com Riehl Quality Storage Barns 717-442-8655 riehlquality.com Rolf Schroeder General Contractors 215-672-0829 rolfschroedergc.com

Keystone Outdoor Living 717-936-9590 keystonecustomdecks.com

The Buxton Complex 609-771-6840 thebuxtoncomplex.com

Serving PA and NJ homeowners since 1948. Offering a large variety of low-maintenance fiberglass pool shapes and sizes, with quick and easy installation. Our experienced team is ready to help you explore designs, timelines and options tailored to your property. 215-788-5532 ordiniswim1day.com

Sequoia Out Back 215-918-DECK (3325) 866-650-DECK (3325) 215-368-RAIL (7245) decksupplies.com

Star Painting and Wallcovering, Inc. 610-409-7980 215-628-2331 starpaintingandwallcovering.com

The Buxton Complex 609-771-6840 thebuxtoncomplex.com

PAVING/ASPHALT/ SEALCOATING

Pool Designs

Chynesky Sealcoating

Bright Light Design Center 610-992-1790 brightlightdesigncenter.com

OUTDOOR STRUCTURES/ PATIO/COVERS/PERGOLAS/ GAZEBOS/SHEDS

MARBLE/GRANITE/TILE/ MOSAICS/SOLID SURFACES

Archadeck of Delaware 302-455-2426 delaware.archadeck.com

AAA Hellenic Marble 610-344-7700 aaamarble.com Colonial Marble & Granite 215-999-6995 colonialmarble.net

Armada Buildings LLC 717-445-5005 armadabuildings.com Bristol Sheds 215-788-8820 bristolsheds.com

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Chynesky Sealcoating protects your pavement and extends its life with professional-grade sealcoating services. Trusted for quality workmanship, competitive pricing, and reliable results that keep driveways and parking lots looking their best. Family owned and operated, we take pride in every job. Call today for a free estimate! 610-960-6292 www.chyneskysealcoating.com

Lomonaco’s Iron Concepts & Home Decor, LLC. 856-740-1071 liciron.com REALTOR

Elite Gardens & Greenhouse 833-354-8303 elitegardensandgreenhouse.com

Ordini’s Best Fiberglass Pools

Hynes Construction 610-896-6388 hynesconstruction.com

Bright Services 215-357-3058 brightservicesgroup.com RAILINGS/STAIRCASES

Blue Haven Pools & Spas NE, by Calvitti 215-996-0660: PA/DE 732-536-0390: SNJ, CNJ 201-512-8800: NNJ Bluehaven.com

Sequoia Out Back 215-918-DECK (3325) 866-650-DECK (3325) 215-368-RAIL (7245) decksupplies.com

PAINTING/WALLPAPER

LIGHTING

HOUSE

Go Direct Paving 610-714-1439 godirectpaving.com

Royal Billiard & Recreation, Inc. 215-997-7777 royalbilliard.com

Tropicraft Patio Furniture 610-645-5400 tropicraftpatio.com

Country Tyme Sheds 267-834-0211 countrytymesheds.com

Their dynamic team has been selling and installing pools, both fiberglass and vinyl liners, for a total of sixty-four years. They specialize in fiberglass in-ground swimming pools and spas. They are here to assist you in the installation of your inground swimming pool and or spa design and will also offer you their experience in creating the ambience and finishing touches that fit in your budget. They carry a long term guarantee and are at your service should you have any questions or concerns regarding your pool. 609-257-2279 poolinaday.com

Lori Vorgang Realtor Times Real Estate 610-873-8730 610-329-4789 ( Preferred) ROOFING/GUTTERS/SIDING C&C Family Roofing & Siding 215-770-9092 candcfamilyroofing.com Carranza Roofing & Remodeling 610-671-3747 carranzacontracting.com E&E General Contracting LLC

Family owned and operated, specializing in full exterior remodeling projects which include additions, siding, roofing, windows, doors, decks, stone work and more. Committed to providing excellent craftsmanship with integrity and an attitude of service. 717-442-4814 eecontractingllc.com Expert Exteriors 833-329-0912 expertexteriorsco.com G. Fedale Roofing & Siding 215-608-0565 gfedale.com Global Home Improvement 866-735-1121 globalhomeinc.com Hynes Construction 610-896-6388 hynesconstruction.com

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John Steele Roofing 302-376-7200 johnsteeleroofer.com Kirkin Exteriors 302-832-ROOF kirkinexteriors.com Preferred Home Improvement 215-366-5813 phibuilds.com

STONE Brandywine Quarry 610-857-4200 brandywinequarry.com TILE/GROUT CLEANING Sir Grout Delaware 302-527-6242 sirgroutdelaware.com WALLCOVERING

Reaction Exteriors 484-571-7100 reactionexteriors.com Rhino Exteriors Solutions 484-996-3600 rhinoext.com

Star Painting and Wallcovering, Inc. 610-409-7980 215-628-2331 starpaintingandwallcovering.com WATER CONDITIONING

Skyline Exteriors 717-278-4426 skylineexteriors.net

Martin Water Conditioning 800-423-0679 martinwater.com

SHOWER ENCLOSURES/ FRAMELESS DOORS

WATER FEATURES/PONDS

Alderfer Glass 215-723-1192 alderferglass.com

Ponds by George 215-396-7500 pondsbygeorge.com

Glass Castle 609-531-0303 908-751-4481 908-428-4244 glasscastle.com

WINDOWS/DOORS/SHUTTERS

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Brandywine Blinds 610-883-9063 www.brandywineblinds.com

Jammer Doors

Chapman Windows, Doors & Siding 610-400-3382 chapmanwindowsdoors.com E&E General Contracting LLC 717-442-4814 eecontractingllc.com Global Home Improvement 866-735-1121 globalhomeinc.com

SPONSORED BY

WINDOW TINTING/FILMS Doyle Window Tinting 215-657-1000 doylewindowtinting.com For 105 years, this fourth-generation family-owned company has delivered trusted window, door and garage door solutions. Every installation is completed by licensed, insured, professionally trained employees—never subcontractors—delivering exceptional craftsmanship, reliability and service. 609-883-0900 800-448-1920 jammerdoor.com Preferred Home Improvement 215-366-5813 phibuilds.com

JSR Window Tinting 610-692-3370 jsrwindowtinting.com WINDOW TREATMENTS /BLINDS Blind Builders 215-322-5855 blindbuilders.com Boyles Floor & Window Designs 610-429-9773 boylesflooring.com

The Shutter House of Philadelphia 267-292-3440 theshutterhouse.com

Alderfer Glass 215-723-1192 alderferglass.com

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PARTNER PROFILE

A CONTRACTOR FOR

All Seasons The Delaware-based A. W. Viohl Contracting delivers high-quality remodeling and maintenance every month of the year, which means it’s always the right time to get started on the interior or exterior project of your dreams. by Madeleine Maccar

nyone who loves what they do will tell you that they don’t do it for the awards and accolades: They do it for the personal satisfaction, like knowing that they made a difference, finding the work rewarding and fostering strong relationships along the way. “By the time a project’s over, our clients have become part of our family,” says Andrew Viohl of A. W. Viohl Contracting. Viohl founded the company that bears his name in 2008 and, since then, has diligently HouseMagazine.com

amassed a team of in-house professionals whose dedication to clients and a job welldone mirror his own, and whose talents come together to make the Delaware-based contractor a truly versatile, trustworthy indoor and outdoor service that can do it all. “The guys who work with me are good buddies, we’ve been working together for a long time. We’re like a family and we’re family-oriented,” Viohl explains. “We know what we’re doing, and we know how to work together. We’ve been doing this for 20-some years, so we’ve pretty much seen it all.” And while Viohl appreciates the talent on his team and knows they’re absolute professionals who can navigate any challenges that may arise along the way, the awards are a nice confirmation that the A. W. Viohl team is on the right track. Having been recently recognized as one of House & Home magazine’s Best of the Best is one of the contractor’s

most recent honors. “We’re out there working as hard as we can, so it means a lot to all of us,” Viohl says. But Viohl and his team are never content to rest on their laurels, whether it’s renovating a basement, creating an addition, updating a kitchen or bathroom with premium fixtures and quality materials, or repairing a deck, they aim for nothing less than the best for the homeowners who trust them with their interior and exterior remodeling goals. “We’re not rushing from one project to the next,” Viohl promises. “Our focus is on you and your home, we will design your project to meet all of your needs and finish the job right.” And there’s never an off-season for the year-round operation, which means they’re not only scheduling projects for the spring but also breaking ground on a few now. It often comes as a pleasant surprise for clients who are planning ahead for the warmer months—or aren’t about to let winter stand in the way of their renovation projects. “I don’t think you should react to a customer by saying ‘Why do you want to do a deck now?’ and I don’t like turning down work: Whatever job people need done, we’ll do it regardless of season,” Viohl says. “We’re always doing projects, even in January and February. On the other hand, we also have calls now to get on the books to start work three months out. That gives us time to get the production going, to get all the permits we need so come March, April or May, we’re ready to go for them.” Viohl adds that features like composite decking boards and vinyl railings will ultimately save homeowners some money. “You won’t have that extra yearly fee or every two years because you’re paying someone to stain it or pressure-wash it.” Viohl diligently encourages open lines of communication, both with the homeowner and among his team. It ensures everyone is on the same page at every stage of the project while managing clients’ expectations—because it is, no matter the project, always about making sure a customer is completely satisfied. “A lot of the jobs we do are for repeat customers, so they’ve been there and know what to expect,” he says. “They know that they’re getting the quality work their paying for. It’s an honor when they hire us for repeat work, and we want to make sure they’ll call us for their next job.”

A. W. Viohl Contracting Claymont, Del. | (302) 375-6166 ViohlContracting.com J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 2 6

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PARTNER PROFILE

OST 13-YEAR-OLD BOYS HAVE PLENTY OF DISTRACTIONS TO KEEP THEM OCCUPIED OTHER THAN THINKING ABOUT THEIR FUTURE CAREERS. While Sam King readily admits that he was not above some of those trappings, at the same time he also displayed a dogged work ethic and a passion for construction, even at a young age. In fact, by his early teens he was already employed by a shop near his Pennsylvania home as a cupola builder. At 16, he joined a general contracting firm led by local builder Norman Graham and took his skills up another notch. Before long, he knew he had found the field that was right for him. “My dad was a carpenter and he worked for Graham’s, and I just had a big interest in it from when I was young,” King says. “I’m thankful for the upbringing that I had, for sure.” King mentored under Graham for 11 years before deciding to branch out on his own. In 1999, he founded Beechdale Builders, a company that today specializes in constructing brand-new custom homes, creating additions for existing houses and renovating kitchens, bathrooms and basements. His goal from the beginning was to utilize the knowledge and skills he had accumulated in his previous stops, while giving customers the stress-free experience they deserve when making a substantial investment and undergoing a major project in their homes. “We try to be straightforward and honest with everybody,” King says. “We go the extra mile to help them achieve their look and give them what they want.” That is especially true when it comes to custom homes, which are like a blank canvas for King and his team, including his designer/architect. Beechdale Builders works in a wide variety of styles and can usually complete a new house within six to eight

A True Calling First inspired to become a contractor as a teenager, Sam King has poured his passion into Beechdale Builders, a thriving company that offers custom homes, additions and renovations to happy clients. by Matt Cosentino

months, or a little longer for larger homes. King understands the anxiety that customers are feeling during the process, but he is in constant communication and keeps them up to date on the progress. “If they have the land, we can help them get the house that they want,” he says. “We will help make their dream come true, whatever they’re interested in. I recently estimated a project for $200,000, which is a small rancher, but we’re also working on a $1.5 million house right now as well. I try not to count anyone out.” When it comes to additions, Beechdale Builders time and again rises to the challenge of providing a space that is functional, aesthetically pleasing and looks like a natural extension of the home. “When you have someone who loves their location and doesn’t want to move, they’d rather spend some money and make the house more like they want it instead of going out and buying a new home,” King says. “We

have all of the resources they need to do the planning and get started. They might just be looking for more living space, or a new master bedroom and suite area is also quite popular at the moment.” Remodels make up a large portion of Beechdale’s business, with kitchens and bathrooms being the primary rooms in need of a makeover. In kitchens, it’s common to remove a wall and open up the space, and Beechdale’s designers and crews can handle everything from cabinetry and countertops to flooring and appliances. “You can really upgrade a house with a kitchen renovation,” King says. “Even though you’re going to spend $80,000 to $120,000, it also adds to the value of the house.” With Beechdale offering all of those services and having a well-earned reputation for finishing projects on time and on budget, it’s no surprise that the company is busy throughout the year. King is happy to have crews he can depend on—several employees have been with him for more than 20 years— including project manager Matt Graham, who oversees each job with a fine attention to detail. The grandson of Norman Graham, he already had a strong relationship with King and has been a welcome addition to the team since joining in 2020. With that support behind him and grateful customers who appreciate his work, it’s no wonder that King is proud of what he has built at Beechdale and the career he first embraced back in his teenage years. “I love it now more than I ever did,” he says. “It really helped bringing Matt on, because that has allowed me to focus on growing the business. Before, it would wear me out trying to line up new jobs while keeping the ones we already had running smoothly. Now, I can focus on the new jobs and Matt oversees the ongoing projects. That makes it enjoyable.”

Beechdale Builders 507 A Beechdale Road | Bird In Hand, PA (717) 278-3683 | BeechdaleBuildersLLC.com

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PARTNER PROFILE

Spring Creek Design Honey Brook, Pa. | (610) 273-9194 SpringCreekDesign.net

Expertise: H O M E R E M O D E L I N G

ask the expert

by Giana Scafide

Spring Creek Design to-four months of construction, meaning the whole process from concept to completion can take the better part of a year. Many people assume aging-in-place renovations are only necessary after a health event or injury. In reality, the best time to begin planning is while you’re healthy, active and able to fully enjoy the finished space. Designing ahead allows you to make thoughtful choices instead of rushed decisions driven by immediate need. It also gives you the opportunity to prioritize features that improve everyday living right now—larger showers, better storage, more natural light, easier access to outdoor spaces and a private retreat away from the activity of the rest of the home. Perhaps their best advice is also the simplest: Enjoy your home while you’re living there. Thoughtful planning, experienced design and quality construction can transform a two-story house into a forever home that grows gracefully with you. An aging-in-place primary suite isn’t just about preparing for tomorrow—it’s about creating a home that’s more comfortable, more functional and more enjoyable every single day.

tough decision that homeowners who are close to retirement routinely face is whether to move and downsize or remodel and age in place. Choosing between the two can be difficult because each comes with financial, emotional and practical trade-offs. While downsizing may reduce maintenance and housing costs, remodeling can allow homeowners to remain in a familiar home and neighborhood. Spring Creek Design, an award-winning design/build firm, has an experienced team that has helped many homeowners age in place Pete Cooper, partner and lead designer comfortably, safely and in style. We spoke to Pete Cooper, partner and lead designer, to find out more about how the company is able to transform homes with thoughtful designs that are both beautiful and functional. What makes an aging-in-place primary suite different from a typical bedroom and bathroom addition? An aging-in-place suite is designed to be both beautiful and functional. The goal isn’t to make your home look clinical—it’s to eliminate obstacles before they become problems. A well-designed primary suite typically includes: • A spacious bedroom with generous circulation around the bed. • A curbless shower for easier entry. • Wider doorways and larger floor spaces to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs if they’re ever needed. • Space planning that includes room for not just the occupant, but also a caregiver. • Comfort-height toilets and vanities. • Bright, layered lighting and non-slip flooring. HouseMagazine.com

• Lever-style door handles and faucets that are easier on arthritic hands.

• Reinforced walls for future grab bars

without disrupting finished tile later. • Easy access to laundry and outdoor living spaces. The best aging-in-place designs don’t announce themselves. Guests simply notice a luxurious spa bathroom, an inviting bedroom filled with natural light and thoughtful details that make the home feel more comfortable for everyone. When is the best time to plan an aging-inplace addition? Earlier than you think. In fact, most projects require anywhere from four-to-six months for proper planning, designing and the obtaining of permits. Once that is squared away, you can be looking at another two-

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Expertise: INTERIOR DOOR REPLACEMENT

PARTNER PROFILE

Norristown, PA | (484) 592-4221 OneDayPhilly.com

ask the expert One Day Doors & Closets of Philly Giana Scafide by

OST HOMEOWNERS FOCUS ON RENOVATIONS LIKE KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS, but one of the simplest and most impactful upgrades can often go unnoticed. Interior doors are everyday parts that shape both the look and feel of your home and replacing them the traditional way can feel like a time-consuming task. From navigating contractors to weeks of disruption, the process often overshadows the benefits. With the right approach, upgrading your interior doors can be a seamless experience, improving everything from noise reduction to resale value in just a few hours. To find out more about this process, House and Home spoke with Eric Strohl, owner of One Day Doors and Closets of Philly.

YOUR COMPANY IS KNOWN FOR ITS 3D MEASURING TECHNOLOGY. HOW DOES THAT TECHNOLOGY MAKE YOUR PROCESS DIFFERENT FROM HIRING A TRADITIONAL CONTRACTOR?

Our technology is the real game changer here. Traditional door replacement is a mess and takes on average 6-8 hours per door for manual measuring, mortising hinges, boring holes, trimming and paint-

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WHAT TYPES OF HOMES ARE THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR THIS TYPE OF TRANSFORMATION AND WILL REPLACING INTERIOR DOORS ACTUALLY INCREASE THE VALUE AND APPEAL OF A HOME?

We don’t discriminate as there are so many older homes needing new doors. On a daily basis we replace interior doors in townhomes, condominiums and single-family homes. Doors are touched by everyone in the home all day long. One Day Doors & Closets is the only home improvement project that can change to look and feel in a home in just a few hours.

WHAT EXACTLY IS ONE DAY DOORS & CLOSETS AND HOW DOES THE PROCESS WORK?

One Day Doors & Closets is the largest company of its kind in North America, won national Eric Strohl, has awards and has been Owner of One Day Doors & Closets of Philly recognized by interior designers for offering homeowners the best interior and closet door replacement. Our experts work directly with homeowners to pick door styles, paint colors and hardware selections. Once all selections have been made, we send a measure technician to the customers home where we 3D scan every door jamb getting accurate measurements down to 1/1000th of an inch. Those measurements are then sent to the factory where the doors are manufactured, painted and shipped to our dealership. Installation is guaranteed to be completed in just one day; however, in most cases, we are in and out of the home in just a few hours with no mess or stress.

doors in various designs. Our designer collection series is by far the most popular, containing a variety of single, double, triple and five panel shaker doors.

BESIDES IMPROVING THE APPEARANCE OF A HOME, WHAT PRACTICAL BENEFITS DO HOMEOWNERS NOTICE AFTER REPLACING THEIR INTERIOR DOORS?

ing. All that work is being done in and around the customer’s home. Our 3D scanning technology takes the guess work out of measuring mapping out hinge placements, strike placements to ensure precise measurements down to 1/1000th of an inch.

Noise reduction is a big one after aesthetics. New solid core doors offer a significant reduction in noise which is helpful to homeowners that work from home or have smaller children.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST DESIGN TRENDS YOU’RE SEEING IN INTERIOR DOORS?

Most homeowners today are opting for solid core

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Elevating for Entertainment Simple upgrades to turn your outdoor space into a stylish, functional area designed for entertaining. B Y

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G I A N A

S C A F I D E

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summer unfolds, the season invites relaxation, connection and unforgettable moments with loved ones. While many dream of beach days or exotic trips, the truth is that some of the most cherished memories are made right at home, especially in a backyard made for entertaining. You’ve already laid the foundation with a deck, outdoor kitchen and swimming pool, but what else can transform your outdoor space into the ultimate entertaining area? To see the best ways to elevate your backyard, House and Home spoke with local experts who shared insights on must-have features, practical additions and stylish solutions.

SHADE IN STYLE Outdoor entertaining reaches its peak during the summer months. When temperatures rise, adequate shade becomes essential for staying comfortable outdoors. A well-designed shade structure can turn your backyard into a comfortable retreat, allowing you to host comfortably even during the hottest part of the day, and patio covers are a great place to start. “Customers want premium sun protection. The awning is more designed for sun protection versus a louvered gazebo, which won’t give you that full UV blocking sun protection,” explains Josh Eberly, chief marketing officer at Marygrove Awnings. “Aesthetically, people choose the awning for their spaces because it’s a harder space to put in a louvered roof or gazebo.” While awnings and gazebos add architectural interest and help provide relief from the sun, homeowners can opt for a pavilion to control sunlight throughout the day. “A pavilion is your best option for shade in a backyard,” Dan Stoltzfus, owner of Country Tyme Sheds says. “If you’re looking to go [spend] a little less money and still get something really nice, that’s when you do a porch shed. This is a shed on one end which turns into a pavilion porch.” Motorized pergolas can add further con-

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Elevating for Entertainment venience, allowing you to adjust them with the click of a button. “Motorized pergolas feature adjustable louvers that can open to welcome sunlight and airflow or close to create shade and protection from changing weather conditions,” says Joe Oakes, president of First State Building and Design. “With the push of a button, homeowners can quickly adapt the space throughout the day without manually moving umbrellas, shades or coverings.”

Clutter can distract from the beauty of your outdoor space, making smart storage solutions essential for keeping everything organized and out of sight.

GETTING SMART ABOUT STORAGE Clutter can distract from the beauty of your outdoor space, making smart storage solutions essential for keeping everything organized and out of sight. For many, this means having options like sheds, deck boxes and outdoor cabinetry. A well-designed shed provides ample storage for tools, pool accessories and outdoor cushions, while deck boxes double as seating and storage, making them a practical addition to patios and decks. “You can incorporate benches that serve as a chest, but you just can’t beat a really nice storage shed,” exclaims Stoltzfus. “You can get those benches that already match your existing set. I wouldn’t recommend more than one per deck because they look cluttered very quickly—just one for a little bit of cushion.” Cabinetry is another great option for homeowners who already have outdoor kitchens. Built-in cabinetry, whether under seating areas or incorporated into the kitchen itself, offers practical storage solutions while maintaining a stylish and spacious area for entertaining. “Our Big Green Egg and the versatile Modular Nest System create the ultimate outdoor cooking and entertaining space,” says Kristi Reading, managing partner at The Buxton Complex. “This customizable outdoor kitchen solution allows you to design a layout that fits your backyard and lifestyle, providing dedicated space for grilling, food preparation and storage to transform your patio into a functional and stylish outdoor kitchen where family and friends can gather for memorable meals.”

ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND FINAL TOUCHES The best outdoor spaces feel like an extension

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of your home, and personal touches make all the difference. Decorative elements such as outdoor rugs and throw pillows, along with electronics like TVs and sound systems, can play an essential role in creating a welcoming outdoor atmosphere. “One of the must haves is a wall to put

a TV on, which [can be] right on that shed space,” Stoltzfus says. “It is really convenient because you can pull items out of there, use them and put them right back. You don’t have to put them somewhere or drag them across a yard or down into the basement.” When choosing outdoor furniture, investing

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in high-quality, weather-resistant pieces that balance style and durability is the most practical approach. Not only will they withstand the elements, but they will also allow you to entertain regardless of the forecast. “Whether you’re creating a cozy seating area for family gatherings or a relaxing space to unwind, outdoor poly furniture adds both beauty and functionality to your outdoor living space,” Reading states. “Designed to withstand the elements,

poly furniture offers long-lasting durability without sacrificing style, so it’s easy to create a backyard that reflects your personal style while providing years of low-maintenance enjoyment.” With these simple and effective elements, your backyard can become a desintation for entertainment. With the right combination of shade, smart storage and thoughtful finishing touches, you’ll be able to create a space that’s as practical as it is inviting.

RESOURCES

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Marygrove Awnings Multiple locations (800) AWNINGS Marygrove.com

Country Tyme Sheds Colmar, Pa. (267) 834-0211 CountryTymeSheds.com

First State Building & Design Chadds Ford, Pa. (302) 803-5082 FirstStateBuildingAndDesign.com

The Buxton Complex Ewing Township, N.J. (609) 771-0274 TheBuxtonComplex.com

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Dilworth’s Custom Design Phoenixville, Pa. | (610) 917-9119 DilworthsCustomDesign.com

Expertise: C U S T O M C A B I N E T R Y

ask the expert

by Giana Scafide

Dilworth’s Custom Design

ustom cabinetry transforms a house by creating a unique and personal space while also providing homeowners with flexibility in design, materials and functionality. From selecting materials and finishes to customizing shelves and drawers, the possibilities are endless, allowing for Dan Dilworth one-of-a-kind owner results. Guiding clients through the whole process means combining style with practicality, making sure the design goes with the home’s character. To find out more, House and Home spoke with Dan Dilworth, owner of Dilworth’s Custom Design.

Since custom cabinetry is an investment, what should homeowners understand about the value it brings compared to stock or semi-custom options? The beauty of custom cabinetry is you’re building it for your space and needs. If you have accessibility problems, custom cabinetry can help you with those areas without supplying a bunch of unnecessary fillers. The other thing with custom cabinetry is you get to pick the wood, color and style. The amount of your selections multiplies almost infinitely depending on your budget. One of our clients wanted gray cabinets on the outside and all walnut on the inside. The drawers, the shelves, everything inside was a stained walnut. It was absolutely beautiful, but it was definitely custom, not a run-ofthe-mill cabinet. With the quality of materials, you can get a lot pickier with the ones you decide to use. When a homeowner comes to you with a vision, how do you guide them from concept to completion while balancing design, functionality and budget?

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One of our first visits is in the home, and you get a good feel for what kind of home it is—how many people, their ages and whether it’s a family with kids. It’s also with the style of their home. If it’s a traditional two-story colonial house in a regular suburban community, we look at the existing traits of the home, such as the doors to adjoining rooms, the hardwood floors, the style of the staircase. All of this is telling you that an ultra-modern kitchen may not be a good fit. It won’t fit your house unless you’re changing many other things. If they sell the house, that room wouldn’t match the rest of the home and it may struggle to sell. We try to protect homeowners from having a really odd room that doesn’t match the rest of the home. Can you walk us through your design-andbuild process and how you ensure quality craftsmanship in every stage of a project? As far as design goes, we have a full showroom with six kitchens and three or four bathroom vignettes. We really try to show a pretty good view of what we can offer people in real life size, so that way they’re

not picking from a tiny swatch. Some people don’t understand that when we’re remodeling their kitchen or bath, we’re not just replacing what they see. We’re transforming the whole room to bring it up to today’s needs and codes. We tell them we need to make sure we bring electrical to code, bring the lighting up to today’s lighting and want to make sure everything is structurally sound. We’re going to tear the floor out down to the subfloor and the walls to get rid of all of the drywall to make sure what we’re putting back is going to last for the next 20 to 30 years. We want to really spend the time to do it right and do a really high-quality job to make it last—that’s been our MO for 35 years. We focus on the whole project, not just the piece that you see. What sets your company apart from other cabinetmakers and renovation companies? One of the biggest things is that we handle the whole project. Not only do we do the full design service, but we also build our own cabinets in our Phoenixville location and complete the whole remodel with little to no subcontractors. Beyond that, we take care of the whole thing, from moving walls, windows and doors when necessary to finished details of hooking up the new appliances. We also fabricate quartz and granite countertops at our shop, and that makes us far different than every other company. It’s become a game-changer because we can make [adjustments] at the last minute before it’s fabricated with zero effect to the schedule. It’s really made it so much easier for us and for our clients to know that they only have one phone call to make, and we’re here to take care of them.

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COMFORT

The New Garage: MoreThan a Place toPark any homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes work harder for them. Whether they need a home gym, remote office, playroom or entertainment space, finding extra room without moving has become a growing priority.

Building an addition can provide that space, but permitting, construction costs and coordinating multiple contractors can make expanding a home's footprint impractical. Instead, many homeowners are finding the answer under their own roof by converting the garage into flexible living space. “Turning the garage into flex space has been more and more common since 2020. It’s a good way to add more livable space while keeping the existing footprint of the home,” says Joseph Magolon, owner of Stonebridge Renovations. Magolon has seen garages converted into laundry rooms, mudrooms, music studios, in-law suites and expanded living areas. Before a garage can function as comfortable living space, homeowners need to evaluate several key elements, including insulation, heating and cooling, the garage door, windows, storage and flooring. “Heating, air and insulation are just a few [considerations.] For the majority of projects, a mini-split will need to be added because the existing unit cannot 36

handle the load,” says Magolon. Because the garage door becomes part of the new room’s exterior wall, garage door specialists recommend replacing older doors with insulated steel models. “Insulation is going to really matter in terms of reducing temperature, reducing humidity and reducing noise. And a lot of people don’t think about things like that until last minute, and then next thing you know, their garage space is really humid when you have a huge exterior wall with an eight foot or bigger opening that’s losing heat and air because insulation is not taken into effect,” says Sarah Jammer, legal compliance director for Jammer Doors. Jammer Doors offer a variety of insulation levels in their steel doors that reduce outside noise and make the space usable yearround. If the current door has extension springs, Jammer also recommends switching them out for torsion springs, as torsion springs are both less dangerous and more efficient, extending the life of the door. Homeowners should also consider upgrading the garage door

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BY ABIGAIL TWIFORD opener. Newer models use belts instead of chains and can be mounted on the side of the garage door instead of the traditional overhead system. “If you convert your garage into a home gym, for example, or even if you convert it to a home office, and your computer desk with a $1,000 computer is sitting underneath your operator, the fact that it could fall or cause issues— or also lower your headspace— [means] having an option to side mount next to your garage can [help] maximize the space,” says Jammer.

The garage is the largest closet in the house, and you can’t turn it into a gym, office or hangout space until everything sitting on the floor has a home.” —Fred Baaklini, owner,

ProLift Garage Doors Fadi Baaklini, owner of ProLift Garage Doors, also recommends replacing older chain-drive openers with quieter, wall-mounted beltdrive models that free ceiling space. “On openers, a quiet belt drive with a DC motor is a must once the garage becomes a living space; the old chain-drive rattle doesn’t

belong in an office or gym. Wallmounted side openers are another great option—they free up the entire ceiling for lighting or storage. And today’s smart openers add battery backup and smartphone control, so the room stays secure and accessible even in a power outage,” says Baaklini Windows also deserve consideration, whether adding new ones or selecting a garage door with windows. “Windows transform a garage—natural light is what makes the space feel like a room instead of a storage space—and placing them in the top section keeps privacy while still brightening the whole space. Insulated glass is worth it in a conditioned room,” says Baaklini. Before renovating, homeowners also need a plan for everything currently stored in the garage. “The garage is the largest closet in the house, and you can’t turn it into a gym, office or hangout space until everything sitting on the floor has a home. That’s the biggest shift we’re seeing in our business, and it’s why we’ve partnered with XClad Cabinets: American-made, wood powder-coated garage cabinetry that’s built specifically for the garage environment. The powder-coat finish stands up to humidity and temperature swings, resists chips and scratches, and won’t rust the way steel cabinets HouseMagazine.com

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can. The whole system hangs on the wall, so the floor stays clear, and it’s modular. … A full system installs in a matter of hours, not days,” says Baaklini. Flooring is also vital to making the space usable in different forms than just for storage, for the functionality of the area and to increase the appeal of spending time in the converted garage. “The flooring often sets the tone for how homeowners view and use the space. When a garage looks unfinished, it typically remains a storage area that’s only

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used when necessary. When the space feels intentional and inviting, homeowners naturally begin using it differently. … The right flooring doesn’t simply change the appearance of the room—it changes the homeowner’s perception of what’s possible within that space,” says Bogdan Pop, founder of Transylvania Concrete Coatings. Pop emphasized that before any work gets done on changing the flooring of a garage, the homeowner needs to consider what they want to use the space for and what they want the overall

feel to be. “They feel a greater sense of pride in their home, are more motivated to keep the space organized and find themselves spending more quality time there with family and friends. … Homeowners should also think longterm. Choosing a flooring solution that complements their lifestyle

RESOURCES Stonebridge Renovations Malvern, Pa. | (484) 459-4920 SB-Renovations.com Jammer Doors Lawrenceville, N.J. | (609) 983-4314 Yardley, Pa. | (215) 458-2749 JammerDoors.com

today—and can continue supporting their family’s needs for years to come—helps ensure the garage becomes a valuable extension of the home rather than just another project,” says Pop. Whether it’s a home office, gym or gathering space, a thoughtfully planned garage conversion can become one of the home’s most versatile rooms. ProLift Garage Doors Doylestown, Pa. | (267) 751-3941 Lansdale, Pa | (267) 490-3718 ProLiftDoors.com Transylvania Concrete Coatings Serving Central and Southern New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania (856) 212- 1250 | OneDayFloors.com E&E General Contracting Gap, Pa. | (717) 442-4814 EEContracting.com

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PARTNER PROFILE

Combining Comfort, Beauty, and Function First State Building & Design elevates homes through thoughtful outdoor living design. hen homeowners begin thinking about improving their property, the conversation often starts with the inside of the home. But according to the team at First State Building & Design, some of the most impactful transformations actually happen outside. Specializing in outdoor living spaces, architectural enhancements and custom hardscaping, First State Building & Design—a premier full-service design/build company located in Chadds Ford, Pa.—has built a reputation for helping homeowners transform underutilized exterior areas into beautiful, functional extensions of their homes. Their design approach—through a simple 3-Step Dream, Design, Build process—blends craftsmanship with thoughtful planning, ensuring each project enhances both the home’s appearance and the homeowner’s lifestyle. For many homes, the transformation begins with curb appeal.

Creating a Strong First Impression

Curb appeal is about much more than landscaping. It’s about creating a welcoming exterior that not only reflects the home’s architecture but also captures the home’s look 38

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and feel while creating a strong, lasting first impression. “Curb appeal is about creating a strong first impression while maintaining harmony with the home’s style,” the team explains. “We always recommend starting with a cohesive plan rather than isolated updates.” Simple architectural details can dramatically enhance a home’s presence. Thoughtful exterior lighting, refreshed landscaping, and upgrades such as custom railings, architectural trim or a redesigned entryway can instantly elevate the look of a property. Material selection is also key to achieving a timeless aesthetic. Natural elements—such as stone accents, warm wood tones and neutral color palettes—create depth and sophistication without feeling overly trendy.

Layered landscaping further enhances the overall design. Combining evergreen plantings, seasonal color and structured hardscape elements creates a polished look that evolves throughout the year while maintaining visual balance. Ultimately, curb appeal should feel intentional, welcoming and reflective of how homeowners live and enjoy their space. Designing Decks and Porches for Everyday Living While curb appeal draws attention from the street, decks and porches are where homeowners truly experience outdoor living. “Decks and porches should feel like seamless extensions of the home, not afterthoughts,” the team says. “We encourage homeowners to think beyond square footage and focus on function, flow and comfort.” Design begins by determining how the space will be used. Some homeowners envision hosting gatherings with friends and family, while others want a peaceful retreat to enjoy endless relaxing moments. Once the purpose is clear, thoughtful design elements help bring the vision to life. Built-in seating, defined zones for dining or entertaining, integrated lighting, and durable weather-resistant materials all contribute to a space that is both comfortable and long-lasting. Covered porches and partial shade structures are especially valuable in the MidAtlantic region, extending outdoor usability across multiple seasons. Additional details such as upgraded rail systems, wider staircases, decorative ceiling treatments or outdoor fireplaces can transform a simple deck into a true outdoor living space. HouseMagazine.com

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Timeless Patios and Hardscaping Hardscaping also plays a significant role in shaping a home’s outdoor environment. When designed thoughtfully, patios and walkways create a natural flow between the home and its surrounding landscape. Timeless patio design begins with balance and proportion. Clean lines paired with natural textures—such as bluestone, travertine or classic pavers installed in traditional patterns— provide a refined look that remains stylish for years to come. Layering design elements adds both function and visual interest. Retaining walls, built-in seating, fire features and outdoor kitchens can enhance how a space is used while creating architectural depth. Integrating softscape features like ornamental grasses, plantings and subtle landscape lighting softens the hardscape and creates warmth within the outdoor environment. Most importantly, patios should feel visually and physically connected to the home. Seamless transitions from interior spaces to outdoor

areas allow the design to feel cohesive and intentional. By focusing on thoughtful planning, quality materials and timeless design principles, First State Building & Design helps homeowners create outdoor environments that enhance both daily living and long-term property value. Beyond custom decks, patios and porches, First State Building & Design brings outdoor living full circle with thoughtfully designed

sunrooms and beautifully integrated poolscapes—creating seamless transitions between indoor comfort and outdoor relaxation. Whether it’s a sun-drenched space to enjoy year-round or a backyard retreat centered around a custom pool, their team approaches each project with the same attention to detail, craftsmanship and cohesive design that defines their work. A commitment to quality, a seamless process, and a personalized approach are what set First State Building & Design apart from the crowded field of home remodeling. They prioritize craftsmanship, communication and customer satisfaction along with the refined expertise of a full-service design/build company that delivers an experience homeowners can trust.

First in Quality, First in Service, First in Satisfaction

First State Building & Design Exterior & Interior Home Renovations Visit their showroom located in Chadds Ford, Pa.

(302) 803-5082 FirstStateBuildingAndDesign.com HouseMagazine.com

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