Crafting timeless kitchens and iconic results page 19
STYLISH SPACES
Picture-perfect kitchen and bath remodeling projects
A FRESH START
How to ensure your landscape is ready for spring
STYLISH SPACES
Picture-perfect kitchen and bath remodeling projects
Focused on providing excellence page 21
A FRESH START
How to ensure your landscape is ready for spring
L A N N I N G
One Day Doors & Closets of Philly
The dramatic difference new interior doors can make page 17
STYLISH SPACES
Picture-perfect kitchen and bath remodeling projects
A FRESH START
How to ensure your landscape is ready for spring
Building a legacy page 23
STYLISH SPACES
Picture-perfect kitchen and bath remodeling projects
A FRESH START
How to ensure your landscape is ready for spring
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
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Max Haggerty
STAFF ACCOUNTANT
Karmal Pritchett
DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Leigh Stuart
PUBLISHER EMERITUS
Bob Doran
EXECUTIVE PARTNERS
Gerry Haggerty, Edward P. McCartney
HOUSE & HOME
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W NEWLANDSCAPE NEWSEASON,
Welcome the spring season with a new and improved landscape. By Giana Scafide
ith spring just around the corner, many homeowners should start thinking about refreshing their landscape to make the most of the warmer months ahead. But knowing when to get started, what to prioritize and how to avoid mistakes can make all the difference in a finalized outdoor space. From soil preparation to the overall look, timing and knowledge matters, so utilizing a landscape expert is key in achieving the perfect outdoor space for spring.
To help homeowners with spring landscape designs, House and Home spoke with local experts about the most effective ways to get an outdoor area ready for the upcoming season.
Timing is everything
It is important to get a head start on spring landscaping to ensure everything is ready in time. Earlier preparation gives homeowners and professionals enough time to figure out designing, spacing and features that would work the best. Many experts say the best time to start preparing is in late winter, which allows plenty of time for homeowners to plan without the need to rush.
“As far as anybody who wants to add a patio, plantings, a shade structure, lighting—anything—start planning as soon as possible,” says Richard Cording, owner of CLC Landscape Design. “I would call a landscape architect and start on a landscape design, because between getting the design ideas worked out and getting the permits, it takes months. It’s not like you can call somebody in April and have your patio put in for May.”
Knowing when you want to start a spring landscaping project is important when it comes to the designing aspect as well. Homeowners shouldn’t plan without first having an idea of what they want their landscape to look like.
“The first task should be gathering inspiration for your project,” Greg Chakar, president of Arborvine Landscaping
NEWLANDSCAPE
says. “Whether that is photos of other projects, or just materials, this initial vision allows us to collaborate with our clients and create a cohesive plan that integrates their lifestyle and design preferences seamlessly.”
Homeowners should also know that when redoing an outdoor space, it’s important to remove unwanted materials to make room for new improvements. Brian Gill, owner of Gill’s Landscapings says, “The very first task we recommend is a thorough cleanup—removing leaves, branches and debris that have accumulated through fall and winter. This simple step gives you a clean slate, helps prevent mold or rot, and makes it easier to evaluate which plants need pruning, replacing or extra care heading into spring.”
Avoiding errors
With any outdoor project, it can be easy to make mistakes along the way without the proper knowledge. Starting too late, overmulching and skipping crucial steps are all common missteps made by homeowners.
Chris DeMato, owner of Rock Bottom Landscaping & Fencing, says, “Landscape design is an aspect of your home that can increase the value by as much as 20%. And I do understand homeowners will sometimes do their own gardening and maintenance in their yard, but I strongly recommend meeting with a professional when planning your design.”
Making sure homeowners and professionals have enough time to brainstorm and finalize the end result is essential too.
“Many homeowners will put off a project until the spring, but understand the mess that occurs on the property after a winter thaw,” says George Mihalchick, owner of Ponds by George. “Then when spring rains start, the mess can get even worse. This can
cause delays on the project and possible changes and additional costs. Don’t be afraid to have a project started in the late season. This way, you can enjoy it starting fresh for the new season and watch everything fill in.”
When it comes to budgeting, clarity from the very beginning makes the biggest difference when planning a landscaping project. Oftentimes, projects begin with an estimated idea or even a lack of investment, which can limit creative control of the project.
“A mistake we see is the lack of a clear budget and budget transparency. We can not only use this information to suggest phases for the project to fit within budgets, we can also guide you through different
Outdoor spaces have always been a space focused on relaxation and leisure time.
material options and installation practices that will best suit your budget. Without this transparency, our design consultants become limited in ways we can adjust and customize design plans and proposals,” says Chakar.
What’s trending
From eco-friendly features to outdoor spaces designed for hosting, there are always trends that homeowners gravitate toward, reflecting practicality and personality.
“I would say one of the most common requests we get as landscape architects is to design fire pit areas,” says Cording. “We’ve also been designing a ton of pavilions and pergolas. Pavilions have a solid permanent roof, and a pergola usually has what’s called a louvered roof where you can have it open and close.”
“Texture-adding hardscaping, walkaways, stones and boulders can add great interest to your design,” adds DeMato.
Today’s designs also favor environmentally friendly features to help create a space where homeowners can unwind and entertain. “Native plants, pollinator-friendly gardens and blended natural stone are extremely popular.
We’re also seeing more interest in outdoor living spaces—fire features, outdoor kitchens and integrated lighting that extends the usability of the yard. Modern, clean-line plantings with year-round texture are also trending,” Gill says.
Outdoor spaces have always been a space focused on relaxation and leisure time. Homeowners are now looking beyond the traditional layouts to create their own personalized areas.
“Outdoor saunas, plunge tubs and irrigated vegetable gardens are also becoming popular for the wellness minded homeowner. These all-inclusive spaces are coming together with finishing touches such as outdoor sound systems, landscape lighting and built-in heaters to ensure these spaces can be used day and night, year round, even in a northern climate,” Chakar says.
Perennials vs. annuals
As you begin to plan a spring landscape project, one of the key decisions to make is whether to incorporate perennials or annuals. Understanding the two types, especially their appearance, how long they last and the maintenance required, can help homeowners develop a landscape that fits their aesthetic.
“It depends on their goals. Perennials are a great long-term investment because they return each year, grow fuller over time and require less frequent replacement,” Gill says. “Annuals, on the other hand, offer richer, brighter color and the ability to change the look of your landscape seasonally.”
While perennials and annuals both have their own advantages, relying only on one can limit the overall impact of a landscape.
“You want both. Perennials, even though they come back every year, they don’t last forever,” Cording says. “Annuals are in bloom from May 1 to Nov. 1 or later on, whereas most perennials bloom for a month or two months. So you want to
kind of have a combination of both.”
From refreshing gardens to elevating outdoor living areas, the choices made when planning a spring landscaping project sets the scene for the rest of the spring season. By balancing visual appeal with practicality, homeowners can create an outdoor living area that reflects their personal style, while investing in a space that will grow each season to come.
Arborvine Landscaping
Wilmington, Del. | (302) 502-5605
ArborvineLandscaping.com
CLC Landscape Design
Ringwood, N.J | (973) 839-6026
CLCDesign.com
Gill’s Landscaping Mullica Hill, N.J. | (856) 223-9770
GillsLandscaping.com
Ponds By George Southampton, Pa. | (215) 396-7500
PondsByGeorge.com
Rock Bottom Landscaping & Fencing Belle Mead, N.J. | (732) 873-6780
RockBottomLandscaping.net
A ChangeDynamic
plenty desires. And while large-scale projects like kitchen and bathroom remodels, finished basements or perhaps new windows can update the look and feel of one’s home, many are also finding similar satisfaction with the transformation that new interior doors can bring.
Eric Strohl understands this all too well. As the owner of One Day Doors and Closets of Philly, he’s seen countless clients marvel at just how much of a noticeable difference new doors can make and the appeal they can bring to one’s home.
“When customers get new doors, there’s a big wow factor. They see how transformative it can be because you touch and feel doors every single day when you’re home. So it makes a huge impact and it’s one of the quickest and easiest home upgrades,” he affirms.
Many folks have turned to Strohl and his skilled team because of the unique and detailed process that One Day Doors and Closets provides, with beautiful new interior doors professionally installed in a single day.
The process starts with an in-home design consultation or a trip to the company’s showroom where a homeowner is able to choose from dozens of designs, finishes and hardware options. Clients can opt for a modern look, traditional shaker style, or maybe something more contemporary to suit their home’s aesthetic.
Once the particulars are worked out,
digmilled for fin-
being factory, doors are professionally painted with a cabinet-grade finish and then installed in less than One Day. No mess, no stress, no weeks of disruption or time off work. Just instant results that homeowners appreciate because they get a whole-home upgrade without the stress or chaos that normally comes with remodeling.
“Typically, most projects include 10-to12 doors, and [a contractor] could be in the home for a week and a half. We’re in and out in four hours,” says Strohl. “And we’re the only company nationally that does all five parts of a door under one roof. So homeowners are dealing with one team, one point of contact for everything.”
That ease and efficiency is the hallmark of the company, but some clients are still skeptical at first, believing there is no way a project like this could possibly be this painless. Strohl enjoys being able to dispel some of their misconceptions and deliver quality work that exceeds expectations.
“People go online and they say, ‘I saw a door for $400,’ and they think that’s what the project costs. They don’t really understand that there’s a lot more involved with installation, the painting, the new hardware. We educate them on the whole process and talk about the traditional way of doing doors and how we do doors. Once they put all those pieces together, they get it,” he says.
Seeing a client’s reaction during the installation and their overall satisfaction with their new doors is one of the more fulfilling
By Peter Proko
parts of the job for Strohl.
“We did a 24-door home last month. The gentleman thought we were going to be there all day because we guarantee to be done in one day. We had two installers who were done in about 4 hours,” he says. “We were packing up the truck and he comes running out of the house asking where we were going. We told him we were done and ready to do a walkthrough.
“He was blown away because two years prior he had a contractor do his doors downstairs and it took them nine days to replace eight doors.”
With a talented team of experienced installers executing a highly refined process, One Day Doors and Closets of Philly has become a leader in the industry with a track record for installations that may be quick, but never sacrifice on quality and personalized service.
“We used specialized technology to reduce costs and we have master carpenters on board, people who have over 25 years of experience, so they know what they are doing,” Strohl says. “And our 5-star Google reviews say it all. We really are the ‘easy’ button when it comes to interior door replacement.”
A Commitment to Excellence
delivers thoughtfully designed, high-quality kitchen and bath renovations through meticulous planning, skilled raftsmanship and clear communication from start to finish.
By Matt Cosentino
Whave plenty of sources for inspiration, from HGTV and social media to the triedand-true formula of borrowing ideas from their friends and family members. But nothing beats the guidance of a seasoned team of designers and builders who have experience in a wide range of styles and have overcome every obstacle imaginable in creating beautiful spaces that can truly transform a residence.
With decades of experience across residential and commercial construction, Icon has worked in virtually every environment imaginable—from modern Center City condos to traditional Main Line homes and Bucks County farmhouses. Some clients come in with a clear vision, while others need guidance in shaping their space. In both cases, Icon’s role is the same: to manage the entire process with clarity, precision and confidence.
“Whatever they dream, we can make it happen,” says Project Manager Francisco Hernandez. “After decades in construction,
we’ve seen a lot—but we still approach each project with fresh eyes and ears.”
With nearly three decades in construckitchens, bathrooms and basements long been central to Icon Remodeling’s work—spaces that consistently provide the greatest impact on both daily living and longterm home value.
“These are the projects we’ve spent years refining,” Hernandez explains. “Kitchens and bathrooms demand the highest level of coordination, craftsmanship and planning. That’s where our experience really shows, and where we’ve built our reputation.”
The Icon difference is based on unique design elements, smarter layouts and the installation of premium materials that will stand the test of time. Just as important is the client experience, which starts with an on-site consultation so the team can get a feel for the space.
From there, they ask important questions and create open dialogue to make sure the design fits the client’s lifestyle. Meticulous planning throughout preconstruction leads to a timely scheduling of the job, which is executed with a strict attention to detail.
“We operate as a true one-stop shop,” Hernandez says. “We walk clients through layout options, material selections and visual planning tools like 3D renderings so they understand exactly what they’re getting before construction begins.”
Transparency is a cornerstone of that process. Homeowners receive detailed, accurate proposals with no hidden fees, along with flexible options that allow them to plan their project responsibly.
“There are no surprises down the line,” Hernandez adds. “We’re very deliberate in how we scope and price projects. Because our work is handled by an in-house team, we
maintain tighter quality control, clearer communication and more reliable timelines from start to finish.”
Just as important as the physical result is the experience itself. Icon places a strong emphasis on communication, ensuring clients are kept informed and never left wondering where their project stands. The goal is to avoid the horror stories that so many people have experienced with contractors, and to not just complete one stunning project, but to build a lasting relationship moving forward. That way, the homeowners know they can rely on Icon the next time they have remodeling needs.
“Too often, homeowners feel disconnected once construction starts,” Hernandez says. “We believe communication sets the tone for the entire relationship. Our goal is to be responsive, proactive and clear at every stage.”
That philosophy is aimed at doing more than completing a single renovation. Icon’s objective is to become a long-term partner for homeowners—someone they trust not just for one project, but for future improvements as well.
“Over the past year, we’ve seen growth across multiple areas: expanded service offerings, a larger team, increased project volume, and deeper investments in systems and training,” says Stoltzfus. “We’ve also continued to strengthen our processes to support scale without sacrificing quality. The demand for high-quality outdoor living spaces remains strong, and we’ve positioned ourselves to meet that demand.”
The growth beyond the area does not mean Keystone has lost touch with its Pennsylvania roots, sponsoring the Philadelphia Union, Penn State University Sports and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.
Your Home Is Where Their Heart Is
Whether they’re crafting a show-stopper of an outdoor project or dazzling clients with thoughtfully personalized flourishes, the team at Keystone Outdoor Living is obsessed with being the best. By
Madeleine Maccar and Abigail Twiford
Keystone Outdoor Living originally made their name building high-quality decks for their customers under the name Keystone Custom Decks, though the company offers a range of stylish and unique outdoor features from pools, patios, outdoor kitchens, private spas and more.
It was because of this range of offerings that the company decided to rebrand to Keystone Outdoor Living, better reflecting the wideranging services they provide.
“While decks remain a core part of what we do, our projects have evolved into complete outdoor environments,” says Marcus Stoltzfus, Keystone’s marketing director. “The rebrand to Keystone Outdoor Living better reflects the full scope of our expertise and the way homeowners use their spaces today. It signals that we’re not just building decks—we’re creating outdoor lifestyles.”
The company has created an in-house team capable of top-notch results, whether they’re on-site, in the Keystone showroom or connecting with clients in more behind-the-scenes roles.
“We really focus on providing excellence all the way through,” says Stoltzfus. “We have an entire team that takes care of client gifts, like flowers with a handwritten note for their birthday, or if we’re doing an outdoor kitchen and we find out their favorite drink, we’ll stock the fridge with that at the end of the project.”
That consistent quality comes directly from the top, as Marv Esh—who runs the
second-generation family-owned organization with his brothers—handles hiring himself, ensuring that everyone on the Keystone team is committed to above-and-beyond client care and on-site perfectionism.
The benefits are many when working with a team that’s not only dedicated to personalized service but also delivering outdoor construction projects that are equal parts rock solid, functional and beautiful. For one, a wealth of knowledge regarding all things outdoors is readily available and accessible to every client; for another, the entire process, whether it’s done in stages or all at once, is seamless, harmonious and stress-free.
“When a typical homeowner wants to put in a pool, a deck, a porch or a pergola, oftentimes they’ll need to have different contractors come in and do those services—and if it’s all at the same time, it creates twice as much stress for them because they have to be the [general contractor] themselves. They have to figure out all the scheduling for all those different moving parts,” Stoltzfus points out. “One of the nice things we can provide is when we come in, even if it’s in stages, we have everything in-house to do all that so they’re really only dealing with one point of contact.”
As Keystone has grown beyond Pennsylvania and New York and into Tennessee and Florida in the last year, the team remains singularly focused on ensuring that its world-class quality of both construction and customer service never wavers.
“We chose those partnerships very intentionally. Each organization represents community pride, excellence, and a strong regional following—values that align closely with Keystone,” says Stoltzfus. “Penn State, the Union and the IronPigs reach families and homeowners across the same markets we serve, and they’re deeply rooted in local culture. Sponsorship for us isn’t just about visibility; it’s about supporting institutions that bring people together and investing back into the communities where our customers live, work and cheer.”
Over the last year the company has reached over 800 Google Reviews and earned themselves a five-star rating.
“You don’t reach that volume of positive feedback unless you’re delivering a strong experience over and over again—across design, communication, craftsmanship, and follow-through. Those reviews reflect our team’s commitment to doing things the right way and standing behind our work. For prospective customers, they offer real proof from real homeowners that Keystone delivers on its promises,” says Stoltzfus.
As Stoltzfus notes, even though Keystone is rarely the cheapest option among its competitors, clients routinely comment on how it was clearly the best choice with detailed reviews itemizing all the reasons they would highly recommend Keystone Outdoor Living.
“Quality and transparency come first— always,” he explains. “We’re focused on delivering an exceptional customer experience from the first conversation to the last day that our crew leaves the job site. That means clear communication, realistic timelines, expert design and craftsmanship we’re proud to put our name on. As we grow, our priority remains the same: treat every project like it’s being built for our own home.”
Building a Legacy
Rolf Schroeder General Contractors is a full-service design/build remodeling firm that prioritizes client experience, quality craftsmanship and one-of-a-kind spaces which elevate how families live, gather and feel at home. By
Kristen Dowd
every family is unique, so why shouldn’t their home be personalized to them—not cookiecutter or repetitive?”
Part of the community
For homeowners considering a remodel, they don’t need to look any farther than Rolf Schroeder General Contractors. “Whether it’s a kitchen, bath, addition or a full transformation, we’re here to guide them through a thoughtful, well-planned process from first conversation to final detail,” Derek Schroeder says.
The full-service design/build remodeling firm specializes in high-end kitchens and bathrooms; additions and whole-home remodels; custom millwork and built-ins; exterior transformations and outdoor living spaces. Quite simply, if a client can envision it, Rolf Schroeder General Contractors can design it, refine it and bring it to life with exceptional craftsmanship.
A strong foundation
Founded in 1982 by Schroeder’s father, Rolf, the company evolved into what it’s known for today: high-quality remodeling and additions.
Derek grew up in the business, learning the trade from the ground up. After earning a degree in kinesiology from Penn State University and completing an internship with the Chicago Bears, he realized remodeling was where he belonged.
“I joined the company full-time in 2008, learned every aspect of operations, and now lead the firm as owner/president, while Rolf remains involved as senior consultant,” he says. “This continuity ensures that the principles that shaped our early years—quality, integrity and deep respect for client relationships—remain central to everything we do.”
An industry leader
As a design/build firm, clients benefit from a streamlined, collaborative approach which aligns design, budget and construction from the start.
“We combine design, budgeting and construction from day one, which means fewer surprises, better alignment with a client’s investment and a smoother experience overall,” Schroeder explains. “This inte-
grated approach minimizes redesigns, reduces delays and keeps projects aligned with both vision and investment.”
A high-touch, owner-led process also sets the firm apart. Schroeder is involved from the first consultation through the final walkthrough, supported by a talented team of designers, architects/engineers, project managers and highly skilled carpenters.
The company also works with a carefully curated group of trade partners. “Instead of a long list of rotating subcontractors, we work with trusted partners who share our standards for craftsmanship and professionalism,” Schroeder says. “Many have worked alongside us for decades.”
Client experience matters as much as the finished space, and “client service excellence” is a priority for every job. Clients can expect clear communication, respect for their home, guided decision-making and investment transparency. “We also maintain a zeropunch-list standard—meaning we consider a project complete only when every detail meets our expectations and yours,” Schroeder adds.
On top of trends
While timeless design is always a focus, trends inevitably influence home remodeling. To stay current, the team is active in professional associations, manufacturer training and industry events, continually reviewing new products, techniques and building science.
“Our philosophy is to design spaces which feel timeless with modern comforts—not simply chase what’s trendy today,” Schroeder remarks.
Current interests include kitchens that function as true gathering spaces, bathrooms designed as personal retreats, integrated technology and energy-efficient upgrades. The team also brings architectural-level craftsmanship to every project.
“We incorporate custom millwork, tailored ceiling treatments and bespoke builtins,” Schroeder explains. “Everyone and
Two values that remain especially important to the firm, Schroeder says, are legacy and community. “We’re passionate about the design/build partnership,” he explains. “We want clients to be in the driver’s seat—supported by a team that listens, educates and advocates for their best interests.”
While creating a beautiful final project is a goal, building long-term relationships is equally important. Some clients have entrusted the company with five, six or even seven projects over time.
“We’re deeply committed to leaving a legacy that’s bigger than ourselves,” Schroeder says. “That goes beyond the homes we remodel and into the communities we serve.”
The team is actively involved in community service initiatives, philanthropic partnerships and industry education and mentorship. This includes ongoing s upport for Links4Lungs and Wilson’s Village, hands-on involvement at Middle Bucks Institute of Technology, and community efforts that help local families.
“What sets us apart is this combination of multi-generational craftsmanship, a refined design/build process, award-winning work, independently verified client satisfaction and a genuine commitment to giving back,” Schroeder affirms. “Our commitment to service excellence has also earned us repeated recognition through GuildQuality’s Guildmaster Award with Highest Distinction.”
“We’re proud to serve Bucks and Montgomery counties, the Main Line and select areas of New Jersey. This is where we live and work, and we take deep pride in the homes— and the relationships—we build here,” he continues. “We’re not just remodeling homes—we’re investing in our community, our clients and the future of the remodeling profession.”
STYLISH SPACES
Amiano & Son Design-Build
This beautifully functional kitchen features a custom two-tier, double waterfall countertop that adds chic dimension and character while creating an inviting extra dining area. The pairing of one matte surface with one glossy finish introduces a striking contrast in texture, elevating the overall design. A luxurious builtin bar beside the dining table enhances both style and functionality, making it ideal for hosting and entertaining. With its absolutely stunning finishes and thoughtful layout, this kitchen seamlessly blends elegance and practicality into a space made for gathering.
Southampton and Ship Bottom, N.J. (609) 268-5923
AmianoAndSon.com
Gehman Design Remodeling
The team at Gehman gave this kitchen ample space by knocking down a wall, giving the clients an open concept layout with more cabinet storage. They also added solid panel door fronts, a quartz countertop and a matching quartz backsplash for easy cleaning.
Harleysville, Pa. (215) 513-0300
GehmanRemodeling.com
Inspiring kitchen and bath designs
Stonebridge Renovations
In this kitchen remodel, Stonebridge Renovations removed a structural wall adding the sunroom to the kitchen space. All demo, framing, plumbing, electric, drywall, flooring, tiling, millwork and painting work was completed by Stonebridge Renovations crew, while all materials were supplied by Stonebridge Kitchen & Bath, creating a one-stop-shop for design, materials and high quality craftsmanship. Malvern, Pa. | (484) 459-4920 | SB-Renovations.com
HomeTech Renovations
Since 1984, HomeTech Renovations have been kitchen and bath specialists, offering full-service design, engineering and installations services. The company worked with these clients to create this modern new kitchen design featuring white oak with black onyx stain with restaurant-like cooking and ventilation components.
Lower Gwynedd, Pa. (215) 646-7477
HTRenovations.com
Kitchen Tune-Up Bloomfield
This redesign replaced the original single-wall layout and small eat-in nook with a center island featuring a marble waterfall edge and sage green shiplap base, creating a natural gathering spot for family and guests. New light, white oak slab-front perimeter cabinets paired with brushed brass hardware, statement pendants and swing-arm sconces bring warmth and sophistication throughout. A full-height Calacatta marble backsplash behind the range, under-cabinet lighting and a gold bridge-style faucet complete the elevated look. Bloomfield, N.J. | (973) 521-1182 | KTUBloomfield.com
STYLISH SPACES Inspiring kitchen
Let’s Face It
Offering unique hardwoods and designer finishes, Let’s Face It’s awardwinning full-service specialists helped transform this kitchen. Notable improvements included a full refacing upgrade of the existing kitchen including the use of modern flush maple doors. To help complement the redesign, a new island was also built and added to the space.
This master suite overlooks the bay in Long Beach Island with Andersen French doors providing access to the second floor deck. A radiant floor heating system provides warmth to the large format tile that runs continuously throughout the space. The curbless his and hers shower features top track sliding glass doors, two rain heads and a handheld shower head. Voorhees, N.J. | (856) 240-4448 | UCBuildersNJ.com
Rolf Schroeder General Contractors
A dramatic custom black hood with carved corbels anchors this kitchen, creating architectural presence against crisp white cabinetry and quartzite surfaces. The richly finished island serves as both a sculptural focal point and a gathering place, while warm golden walls envelop the room, amplifying natural light and introducing depth. Subtle checkerboard accents offer a refined nod to whimsy, thoughtfully layered rather than overt. Professional-grade appliances are seamlessly integrated, balancing performance with polish.
Glass Castle helped this client with a shower enclosure in their bathroom. With the white deco tile, the client decided to go with the low-iron (ultraclear) glass as well as the ShowerGuard coating. These choices ensure the enclosure will look just as nice in 10 years as the day it was installed.
Improvements to the outside of the home can both boos
BY ABIGAIL TWIFORD
W Exterio Enhancem
also considering appeal and increase
We spoke get a sense of some of the more popular ways homeowners can give their exterior a much-needed boost. One key place to start is with your garage doors.
Fadi Baaklini, owner of ProLift Garage Doors, points out that upgrading your garage doors can have an almost 100% return on investment, and is considered one of the top ways to increase a home’s value for under $10,000.
Following this harsh winter we have experienced in our area, some homeowners may want to consider adding insulated garage doors, but Baaklini advises against that expense unless you already have a heated garage or find yourself spending large amounts of time in the space year-round.
Though the garage has become the predominant entry way into the home, that does not mean homeowners are not looking for a
ost curb appeal and increase value
ORNATE GARAGE DOORS A RE A SURE-FIRE WAY TO ENHANCE YOUR HOME AND CAN REALLY DELIVER A RETURN 0N INVESTMENT.
or ments
more informed decisions regarding choosing the best designs to complement the architecture.
One of the more popular entry door systems today comes from ProVia, a company known for its quality craftmanship in value, or just curb appeal in general, but also offers highly rated security and privacy with different privacy glasses,” says Jammer.
Levi Esh, owner of Pencroft Ridge Construction, says other
Exterior Enhancements
LIGHTING IS AN ELEGANT WAY TO HIGHLIGHT YOUR HOME FROM THE STREET.
popular ways to boost curb appeal include a sensibly redesigned porch and the addition of a portico, but adds that upgraded siding can truly transform the look of your home’s exterior and create intrigue about the rest of the house.
“I am going to say that it can just completely change [the look of] your house. Your house kind of speaks for who is living in it and it really can make a huge difference,” he says.
Adam Parnes, vice president of marketing at Global Home Improvement, also notes that difference new siding can have on a home’s exte-
rior. But while the familiarity of vinyl siding makes it the preferred choice for many, Parnes instead suggests fiber cement siding from James Hardie, due to its durability, the rich colors available and the realistic wood-grain texture it offers.
What’s more, Parnes notes how new gutters, specifically the black gutters that are trending, can also refresh the look of your exterior.
“From an appearance standpoint, black gutters have become extremely popular because they give the home a clean, modern look and really frame the roofline, especially on lighter-colored exteriors. They also blend beautifully with darker roofs and trim, so they don’t stand out in a bad way,” he says.
For the performance aspect, Parnes says that halfround gutters allow water to flow more efficiently, reducing buildup and clogging
less over time.
When it comes to outdoor lighting and its impact on the exterior appearance of a home, Tim Teed of Vesta Lights expresses the importance of creating a safe environment while choosing lighting methods that heighten the home’s features without going overboard.
“You are not trying to light up the house like a hotel, you are trying to use accent lighting to complement the architectural house. It’s more for the appearance aspect of it, as well as considering the safety and the security, especially, if it’s a real dark neighborhood,” says Teed.
No matter which exterior project you choose to tackle first, these improvements help to beautify your home while also adding value, creating an inviting environment that will be enjoyed by family and friends for many more years to come.
