Inspiring kitchen and bath remodeling projects
Tips on how to get your landscape ready for the season
Emmons Remodeling
A company you can trust for both your exterior and interior projects page 23
STYLISH SPACES
Inspiring kitchen and bath remodeling projects
SPRING AWAKENING
Tips on how to get your landscape ready for the season
Inspiring homeowners to create their outdoor oasis page 1
STYLISH SPACES
Inspiring kitchen and bath remodeling projects
SPRING AWAKENING
Tips on how to get your landscape ready for the season
10 Spring Awakening
To have your landscape looking its finest come spring, you’ll need to plenty of advance planning
19 The Evolution of Excellence
Architectural Concrete
Design create stunning entrances that enhance curb appeal and are built to last
21 A Game Changer
A product is helping to revolutionize modern construction
23 A Trusted Team
Emmons Remodeling is well-equipped to handle any number of renovation projects
24 Stylish Spaces
Inspiring kitchen and bath remodeling projects from across the region
27 Transform Your Kitchen
The experts at Kitchen Tune-Up Main Line deliver time and time again
28 Fabulous Facades
Give your home’s exterior a whole new look and feel
PUBLISHER
Edward P. McCartney
EDITOR
Peter Proko
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Brian Mikulski
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Leigh Stuart
PUBLISHER EMERITUS
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EXECUTIVE PARTNERS
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HOUSE & HOME
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SpringAwakening
Getting
your landscape in shape for the season begins with lots of advanced planning.
By Peter Proko
While most embrace living in a region fortunate enough to experience the true changes in seasons, there’s no denying Old Man Winter has had some grumpier moments during the early part of this year. That’s not to say that folks are ready to trade in their sweaters for swimsuits just yet, but each passing day on the calendar adds a bit of excitement as eyes begin to shift toward spring.
After months of fighting the bitter cold, spring’s arrival will bring welcomed warm temperatures perfect for hanging with family on the back deck or gathering with friends at the ballpark. The transition to spring also brings new possibilities for
homeowners as they look to refresh their landscape and return their home’s outdoor spaces from dormant to thriving.
Fertilized lawns, freshly laid beds of mulch and the smell of the clippings from that first mowing of the season may not be as far into the future as you may think. It’s important to plan now to be able to maximize outdoor enjoyment when the weather breaks.
The National Association of Landscape Professionals recommends basic steps such as inspecting your trees and shrubs for damage, fertilizing your lawn and testing your soil every few years for pH balance. The organization further suggests fertilizing trees and shrubs prior to mulching, applying
pre-emergent weed control and tidying up all plant beds. As the temperatures climb, an inspection of the irrigation system to ensure its working condition is key.
House & Home spoke with some area experts in the industry to find out how to best get your landscape beautiful and bountiful this spring, from the types of plants that will add pops of color to the latest trends homeowners are gravitating toward.
Are you noticing any recent trends with regard to landscape design that are gaining in popularity?
“Everyone and everything is being affected by climate change. Therefore, my focus is to incorporate as many plantings into a
Spring Awakening
design that can handle—and even thrive in— the extreme temperature swings throughout the year, especially in the summer months, and satisfy the aesthetic needs of the client.
“I’m also keenly aware that the pollinators need the right varieties of food during the growing season. It’s a balancing act that’s essential from my perspective. Townships are also very demanding that any design results in proper storm water management. So, beauty plus environmentally sensitive practicality seems to be the formula going forward.”
—Ronni Hock, owner and landscape designer, Ronni Hock Garden & Landscape
“Shade structures are currently trending because they provide areas to entertain family and friends anytime of the year. And these structures do not have to break the bank, they are a quick resolve. … Outdoor kitchens and outdoor fireplaces, once a rare request, have also become popular considerations.”
—Diane Marrazzo, outdoor design specialist, Marrazzo’s North River
What are some of the more important things homeowners need to know to get their landscape ready for the spring season?
“Well, probably the most important thing is fertilizer. It’s huge in the fall and it’s huge in the spring. Homeowners will want to plan a fertilizer schedule … it keeps everything healthier. And the bigger the root systems and the more established your plants, you’ll get heartier, stronger plants with vibrant colors.
“I would also say as the soon as the weather breaks, get out and break up all that dead foliage, so when perennials start popping, they don’t have to grow through layers and layers of dead leaves and debris.”
—George Mihalchick, owner, Ponds by George
When is the best time to start prepping the landscaping for spring?
“Now is a good time to get outside and assess your landscape. You can remove any winter debris, even prune to shape a wiry shrub or low-lying tree branch, before the landscape wakes up to the warmer weather.
“Toward the end of February or early March, one may begin writing down their ideas, ear-tag project pictures from magazines, or Pinterest, etc. You’ll want to schedule an appointment early depending on your needs, as a reputable landscaper can easily book out four-to-six weeks for landscape projects, and for hardscape projects it may be up to two months.”
—Diane Marrazzo
“We love for people to begin as early as possible. What a lot of people do is they’ll wait until it’s nice out and then because they are outside, they’ll start thinking about their landscape because it looks terrible. Start when the weather is bad because then all the planning, all the
back and forth can be done and things are set up for when the weather breaks.”
—George Mihalchick
“If you plan to hire a landscape design firm to create and implement your project for spring, the best time to start is during the late fall of the prior year, or during the winter months. If you wish to do the work yourself—and you’ve done the research and fashioned a design—start with soil preparation in early spring, once the ground has thawed. Use an organic compost to fertilize the soil. This will help to ensure that what you plant thrives.”
—Ronni Hock
What types of plants/shrubs are the best to help homeowners add some color to their landscape?
“Hydrangeas, perennials and flowering ornamental trees all offer a beautiful seasonal display of color and bloom. And remember, our zone can permit winter color too; the reliable Winterberry will never disappoint. [Furthermore], evergreen specimens will not only provide foundational interest, but when used tightly together, they offer texture and balanced color 365 days a year.”
—Diane Marrazzo
“One of the major concerns of any client who wants to install extensive landscaping (and because of the reality of our region) is deer-resistant plant material. The deer population is increasing and these animals have expensive tastes! One important flowering shrub that attracts and pleases hummingbirds in the spring is Weigela. Several varieties have
Image at left courtesy of Marrazzo’s North River
Spring Awakening
shades of pink or white flowers. Other flowering shrubs include: Spirea, Abelia, Pyrancantha, Aronia and Clethra. In the perennial category, Asclepias is not only deer-resistant and food for butterflies, but is also a native to our region. In addition, Erigeron, Calamintha, Agastache, Saliva and any variety of Eupatorium are a wonderful addition to any landscape and have an extended blooming period.”
—Ronni Hock
Do you encounter homeowners preferring to coordinate their landscape with the overall look of the home itself?
“Yes, you definitely want to go with the vibe of the home. When I walk up a driveway [to meet a client for the first time], I am checking out what’s already there as well as the style and layout of the house. Do they have a formal walkway or is it rustic? Is it curved or straight? What kind of light
fixtures do they have, are they formal? I try to pick up on all that stuff as I am walking to the front door and I think about the types of plants that go with the age of the house as well.”
—George Mihalchick
RESOURCES
Marrazzo’s North River Wycombe, Pa. (215) 598-1412
MarrazzosNorthRiver.com
Ponds by George Southampton, Pa. (215) 396-7500
PondsByGeorge.com
Ronni Hock Garden & Landscape Lawrenceville, N.J. (609) 844-0066
RonnisGarden.com
Architectural Concrete
The Evolution of Excellence
Tired of a cracked, faded driveway? Your home deserves a stunning entrance that enhances curb appeal, lasts for decades, and requires minimal upkeep.
Architectural Concrete Design crafts high-end decorative concrete driveways that offer the look of natural stone, brick, or tile without the headaches of constant maintenance.
For over three decades, Architectural Concrete Design (ACD) has been at the forefront of the decorative concrete industry, transforming homes and commercial spaces with unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation. What began as a small operation with one truck and one employee has evolved into a thriving, industry-leading company with over 40 dedicated professionals.
ACD has undergone several rebrands, but its core mission has never wavered: building the finest decorative concrete systems for its clients. Despite industry changes, ACD has remained the gold standard for stamped and decorative concrete in the region.
Most recently, ACD has embarked on another exciting transformation. Under the leadership of Managing Partner Steve Abel, who brings a unique perspective from his tenure in software development and commercial banking with Fortune 100 companies, the company is modernizing its operations. Investing in staff development, technology and customer experience, ACD is ensuring that its tradition of excellence continues for decades.
The most remarkable aspect of ACD’s success is its people. In an industry with high turnover, ACD fosters a family culture, building careers for its employees. Many of its team members have been with the company for decades, ensuring continuity in quality and service.
Architectural Concrete Design has consistently been ahead of the curve because of its
consideration of both employees and homeowners, and its innovative techniques. From being among the first companies to bring stamped concrete to the region in the early ‘90s to developing customized solutions for complex commercial installations, ACD has been instrumental in elevating decorative concrete from a functional material to an art form.
ACD works closely with general contractors, engineers, landscape architects and homeowners to design and execute unique, high-end installations. Whether pioneering new finishes, refining texturing methods, or integrating cutting-edge reinforcement technologies, ACD ensures that every project sets a new industry benchmark.
By consistently delivering high-end, durable installations, the company has set itself apart from budget-driven competitors. ACD also remains conscious of educating homeowners and professionals about best practices, proper installation methods and material selection.
“As commercial subcontractors, we’re constantly collaborating with owners, general contractors, engineers, and designers. These high-level commercial insights allow us to refine and elevate the residential decorative concrete experience,” Abel explains.
The main concept Abel and his team aim to instill in their clients is recognizing that decorative concrete is the obvious choice for longevity and hassle-free maintenance. Unlike asphalt, which is a necessity rather than an aesthetic choice, stamped and decorative concrete driveways serve as an investment in a home’s curb appeal and long-term value.
With an unlimited array of colors, textures and patterns, homeowners can achieve the look
of natural stone, brick, tile or custom designs, while enjoying the durability of reinforced concrete. ACD specializes in custom driveway designs that complement a home’s architecture, seamlessly integrating with its surroundings.
Stamped concrete design trends continue to push creative boundaries. Classic random flagstone and slate textures remain favorites for traditional homes. Large-format segmented patterns and white-on-white concrete designs are on the rise for a modern, minimalist look. A hallmark of high-end estates, exposed aggregate is making a strong comeback, delivering a refined, textured finish.
However, stamped concrete driveways aren’t just about aesthetics—they make financial sense. Unlike asphalt which cracks, deteriorates and requires frequent resurfacing, decorative concrete is built to last decades with proper maintenance. While paver driveways shift, settle and require constant re-leveling, stamped concrete remains stable, maintenancefriendly and weed-free.
Stamped concrete driveways are remarkably easy to maintain. Basic upkeep entails occasional sweeping or a rinse with a hose. Before winter, a quick leaf-blowing session prevents organic debris from settling. Every four years, a power wash and reseal will protect the driveway’s color and finish. ACD offers this at a cost lower than asphalt resurfacing, making maintenance both simple and affordable.
ACD offers financing solutions that allow homeowners to bridge the cost difference between asphalt and decorative concrete, making it an accessible long-term investment.
“For homeowners debating between asphalt, pavers, and decorative concrete—the numbers speak for themselves. ACD’s stamped concrete driveways provide a higher-end finish with a longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs than competing materials,” Abel affirms.
With an unmatched reputation, a commitment to quality, and a passion for innovative design, ACD continues to redefine what’s possible in residential and commercial concrete installations. Call today to ensure the opportunity to discover the ACD difference where durability meets design—as their schedule is filling rapidly.
A Game
InSoFast insulated wall panels are revolutionizing modern construction.
I
Changer
ture management, essential in basements and other spaces prone to dampness. Siebert further explains that all the panels include a drainage plane on the back, preventing moisture buildup and reducing the risk of mold or mildew.
Simplicity Matters
In a busy world where so many of us are stretched for time, simplicity more than matters, it’s greatly appreciated and more often than not sought out.
“Both a skilled professional or a DIY enthusiast can install the self-flashing interlocking insulation panels and expect the same great results,” says Siebert. “When using InSoFast you save time on framing, and skip the headache of wiring electrical and HVAC, because our panels can be simply and quickly applied directly over the cold walls of a basement. In fact, in can be installed four times faster than other products.”
to-install insulation panels that aim to both simplify and improve energy-efficient insulation for both residential and commercial buildings. Known for their versatility, high performance and affordability, InSoFast panels offer an innovative solution to traditional insulation. With an emphasis on durability, moisture resistance and energy savings, InSoFast insulation panels have quickly become a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. We spoke with Rachel Siebert, marketing director at Insofast, who provided more detailed insight into the product.
So, What Makes InSoFast Different?
InSoFast panels combine rigid foam insulation with integrated stud framing channels, electrical raceways and moisture management features. The concept is to create an all-in-one solution for insulation, framing and moisture protection, all within a single panel.
“We focus on developing energy-efficient building systems that exceed present and future energy codes, outperform the competition and simplify construction processes,” says Siebert. “Insofast is truly a high-performance product.”
InSoFast panels offer an impressive Rvalue, which refers to the material’s resistance to heat flow. With a high R-value, the panels enhance the building’s thermal efficiency, keeping interiors warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
“Continuous insulation eliminates gaps and thermal bridges, providing consistent R-
a home or building. By creating a thermal barrier, continuous insulation improves energy efficiency, reduces heating and cooling costs, and enhances overall comfort,” explains Siebert.
Other innovations for InSoFast include the built-in stud feature and moisture management. Traditional insulation requires separate framing, which can increase costs and installation time. InSoFast panels come with integrated plastic studs, spaced to provide optimal support and insulation, making them ready to receive drywall or other interior finishes without extra steps.
“Arguably the favorite aspect of the panels among contractors or at-home DIY-ers is the ease of installation. The panels come in interlocking tiles, allowing a DIY-er or a professional installer to set them up quickly and accurately,” Siebert says. “With built-in studs and channels for electrical wiring it also eliminates the need for more traditional steps, streamlining the entire insulation process and maintaining the integrity of the property.”
InSoFast panels also aid assistance in mois-
To cater to different applications and performance requirements, InSoFast offers various panel types; including the Flat Panel UX 2.0, the thinnest profile flat panel, optimized for insulating interior surfaces and versatile enough for use on floors, walls, ceilings, and can be adapted for framed wall construction or other unique conditions. It’s also a good choice as a sub-flooring base panel and for shipping container builds.
The Flat Panel EXi 2.5 is the most versatile interior and exterior grade panel, as it is optimized for masonry, flat surfaces or framed construction. It combines all the best features of continuous insulation and is ready for finishing.
Lastly, the thickest panel yet, the MAX 3.75 RW is a 3¾ inch, thick closed-cell, injection-molded EPS foam panel that achieves an impressive R-15.9 insulation. The MAX 3.75 RW is a universal super-insulated flat panel, optimized for interior and exterior finishes. “This panel is particularly popular for use in basements or ground floors where cold concrete can impact overall comfort,” Seibert says. InSoFast panels have redefined the standard for insulated wall construction, delivering superior energy efficiency, reduced installation time and cost savings. Their innovative design and wide applicability make them a smart choice for modern builders, architects and property owners. As energy efficiency and green building practices continue to gain importance, solutions like InSoFast panels are set to play an increasingly critical role in sustainable construction.
A Matter of Trust
When you need work done on your home—expected or not—you want to know that you can trust the contractor you’ve hired to get the job done well. After all, you’re not an expert on what’s involved in services like roofing, siding or windows, and you don’t want to get taken advantage of as a result. Because of that, it’s important to choose a company that you can feel confident is reputable.
But how exactly do you know a company can be trusted?
One important factor in choosing the best contractor is longevity. Only a company that performs great work is going to be able to stick around for the long haul. That’s exactly the case with Emmons Remodeling, a company that has been offering expert care for South Jersey and the Jersey Shore area since 1996. They are a wellknown name in the region—and for good reason. Their success was built upon a reputation of honesty, integrity and good work.
“It’s a title that backs up our already strong reputation,” says Stephanee Kelly, coowner of the company along with her husband Matthew. “Only the most reputable companies are able to earn that designation.”
Besides being able to feel confident that you’ve hired a contractor you can trust, this designation benefits homeowners in a more tangible way as well. That’s because Platinum Preferred Contractors are able to offer 50-year warranties on their work— much longer than other companies can offer. According to Owens Corning’s website, “because we stand behind these warranties, we need to make sure that we are backing up the best roofers in the business.”
Emmons Remodeling has been providing interior remodeling service throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania for more than 30 years. The company has built its solid reputation on craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
As the family-owned company grows, it has expanded the team that is available to help design and build your projects. Several talented remodeling industry professionals have recently joined Emmons to serve its over 6,000 existing customers and help expand the growing number of satisfied customers throughout South Jersey.
They make it easy using a proprietary curated design concept, which is an industry first. It’s an easy, affordable way to quickly get a custom designed project without the heavy cost of a design-build process.
You can always trust Emmons to provide exceptional value and design with quality project outcomes. Now with Krista (lead designer/project planning manager), Rebecca (project design consultant), Frank (construction project manager) and Pete (director of operations) teaming up with seasoned vice president of construction Chris Kelly, key project manager Eric Gilham and 20 trade professionals, you can rest assured that your project is designed and built right. A fiveyear warranty and a lifetime service guarantee back up the claim of quality and craftsmanship, while providing you with peace of mind that you made the right decision.
The experts at Emmons are always ready to help you with kitchen, bathroom, additions and deck solutions. They make remodeling your home easy and affordable with exceptional financing programs and realistic pricing. Trust Emmons with your next project.
After all, the Emmons’ mission statement is: “Our customer’s experience builds our business and defines our reputation, which is one of trust, reliability, integrity and value for every customer we serve.”
Choosing Wisely
At the end of the day, your choice in roofing, siding and window contractors can be the difference between good, quality work—and a big headache. Stephanee says that the last thing Emmons wants to see is people in their local community get taken advantage of by unscrupulous roofing, siding and window contractors.
In fact, the company is an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor. That’s not a designation that any old company can have. Platinum Preferred Contractors are in the top tier of a premiernetwork of roofing professionals. In order to achieve this title, they must have passed a workmanship inspection, been professionally screened for financial stability and customer service, and continue to adhere to stringent guidelines set forth by Owens Corning. Fewer than 1% of roofing contractors in the United States are Owens Corning Platinum Preferred.
And the expertise is not limited kitchens and bathrooms. Emmons provides fullservice remodeling and construction services for additions, interior renovations, porches, decks, windows, doors and basement finishing. The design team acts as your trusted advisor to help you make the right decisions on products, materials, colors and selections.
“You should be able to feel confident that you’ve chosen a contractor that you can trust— not one that is going to leave you with problems to fix after they’ve gone,” she says. “At Emmons, you are not only investing in a new roof, new siding or new windows— you’re investing in peace of mind.”
KITCHEN & BATH
Amiano & Son Design-Build
This South Jersey kitchen was recently remodeled and features large windows above the sink, which were a special request of the client. To enhance the design, sconces were added above the winodws, creating a sleek and symmetrical look, while incorporating touches of black and wood for warmth and character. The result is a bright, functional space with an elegant and warm feel.
Southampton and Barnegat Light, N.J. (609) 268-5923 | AmianoAndSon.com
Let’s Face It
This transitional-style kitchen features white painted shaker doors featuring brushed gold hardware, an island and eating area featuring contrasting maple wood cabinetry, quartz countertops, GE Monogram appliances with brushed gold handle accents, a hand-built subway tile backsplash and a new lighting package, including under-cabinet lighting.
Lower Gwynedd, Pa. (215) 343-2600
LFIKitchens.com
STYLISH SPACES
This project transformed a neglected kitchen into a welcoming space for family gatherings. Masterfully crafted custom cabinetry, highlighted by a French range with a soft blue hood, blends elegance with functional design, showcasing the artistry of Master Design Cabinetry. Honey Brook, Pa. | (610) 273-2212 | MasterDesignCabinetry.com Master Design Cabinetry
HomeTech Renovations
This stunning bathroom design is spotlighted with Medallion Early Grey painted cabinetry and quartz countertops. The enclosed closet area was converted to a sit-down makeup area with a recessed medicine cabinet. The floors are porcelain wood-look tile plans with radiant heating, while the porcelain marble spa shower features a wall alcove and custom shower glass. A tub was removed and replaced with an upholstered bench seat and tall linen cabinet, floating shelves were added over the toilet and new Palladian windows with plantation shutters were installed.
Lower Gwynedd, Pa. | (215) 646-7477 HTRenovations.com
Bath Tune-Up Mainline
Bathroom design style in three easy steps! The collections are grouped by common base palettes: white, blue, gray, black and neutral. They also feature a variety of shower surrounds and floor tile options, including materials like tile, solid surface and quartz. The expert team here will work with you to figure out your preferences—no more running from store to store trying to find all the puzzle pieces. Sit back and relax as a team of experts brings your vision to life. For a free consultation contact the number below or visit the showroom at 359 E. Lincoln Highway in Easton, Pa. Easton, Pa. | (484) 383-5218 | BathTuneUpMainline.com
The CabinetTree Design Studio
The kitchen remodel project began with installing a 25-foot structural support beam made flush with the ceiling. The rest of the kitchen was gutted and the cabinets were replaces with new UltraCraft cabinetry, and appliance panels were installed on the fridge. The main piece of this remodel is the kitchen island with seating for nine people and seating on three sides, leaving one side for the host to serve their guests.
Cherry Hill, N.J. | (856) 888-2220 | CabinetTree.com
Transform Your Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank
The experts at Kitchen Tune-Up Main Line know how to update and elevate your space on a budget.
The kitchen—a place for family meals, celebrations and daily routines—is the heart of the home, so it’s no surprise that investing in your kitchen can both significantly enhance your quality of life and add value to your property. But many homeowners hesitate to tackle kitchen updates, fearing the cost and inconvenience of a full-scale remodel.
Thankfully, creating the kitchen of your dreams doesn’t have to mean tearing everything down. There are innovative, cost-effective ways to breathe new life into your space, combining beauty, function and value. Whether you’re envisioning a modern aesthetic or looking to enhance storage and organization, Kitchen Tune-Up Main Line provides tailored solutions to make your kitchen look and feel brandnew—all while saving you time and money.
Kitchen Tune-Up specializes in affordable, efficient updates that cater to your unique needs while bringing your vision to life. Here’s how its team can help:
1. The Original Tune-Up
This service focuses on restoring your existing cabinets to their original beauty by removing dirt, grease and wear, followed by a protective
finish. It’s a quick, eco-friendly way to refresh your kitchen without replacing anything.
2. Cabinet Redooring and Refacing
For homeowners looking to update their kitchen’s look, these options are both cost-effective and transformative. Redooring involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts, while refacing adds a new veneer over existing boxes, delivering a like-new appearance for a fraction of the cost of custom cabinets.
3. Cabinet Painting
A fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference, and Kitchen Tune-Up ensures a flawless finish with professional-grade tech-
niques. Choose from a wide range of colors to modernize your space or make a bold statement.
4. Custom Cabinets
For those dreaming of a complete transformation, Kitchen Tune-Up offers fully customized cabinets designed to optimize layout, storage and style. Whether you need a better workflow or more space, their experts craft solutions tailored to your home.
5. Innovative Storage Solutions
Maximize your space with roll-out trays, lazy Susans and custom organizers that make every inch of your kitchen both functional and accessible.
Why Choose Kitchen Tune-Up Main Line?
With their expertise and focus on customer satisfaction, Kitchen Tune-Up completes most projects in just a few days, minimizing disruptions to your daily life. Their services provide an easy path to a stunning kitchen upgrade, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want to love the space you use every day.
Visit Their Showroom
See the possibilities firsthand at Kitchen TuneUp Main Line’s showroom. Explore samples, speak with experts and start planning your dream kitchen today.
Kitchen Tune-Up Main Line
Exton, Pa. | (484) 318-7205
KitchenTuneUpMainLine.com
Fabulous
Incorporating the latest trends for a home’s exterior can boost curb appeal with designs, colors and materials that stand out from the crowd and are customized to what each household will love.
by Carly Murray
BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO A HOME’S EXTERIOR IS AN EXCITING JOURNEY. However, from siding, roofs, windows and doors to budgeting, permitting, Homeowner Association (HOA) restrictions and planning, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Thankfully, there are no shortage of modern and trendy options to explore, as well as plenty of homeimprovement experts with whom to collaborate.
Regardless of the vision homeowners wish to bring to life, there are key elements to remain conscious of to facilitate the process.
With the proper research, everevolving product, brand, color and material selections can allow for any desired result without compromising your budget so you can enjoy experimenting with these varied options to arrive at the exterior of one’s dreams—or even find a new, better vision during the process. After all, with modern technology, fixtures can be compared efficiently, and virtual models can demonstrate how elements will actually look in a specific space, so there’s no harm in weighing all of the choices to find the absolute best fit. Interestingly, the homes of the future are not what past genera-
Facades
tions once envisioned. Rather than all-white, sharply-defined edges and irregular shapes, 2025 home exterior style trends consist of hues that embody warmth, bold colors, and design contrasts and individuality.
Earth tones are an optimal way to achieve a serene look and
feel, and many combine these natural-inspired colors with stone and wood materials. Within these naturally occurring resources are color variations that can inspire finishes and details, but these mediums will also pair well with any color, natural or otherwise. One might be surprised how ef-
fectively completely different patterns can harmonize with one another. Mike Chapman, president of Chapman Windows Doors and Siding, describes dynamic exterior design choices that incorporate a mixture of materials, textures and perceptible direction.
“One of the standout trends we’ve seen is combining different siding orientations, such as pairing horizontal and vertical siding elements together, which adds visual interest and depth. This is often complemented with stone accents, bringing a natural, earthy touch that contrasts beautifully with the sleekness of modern siding,” says Chapman. “Bold hues combined with creative design elements always result in a finished product that leaves a lasting impression and truly transforms the home. It’s always rewarding to see clients’ visions come to life with these daring and distinctive design choices.”
In addition to nature, regional architecture can play a major role in igniting inspiration for creative decisions. Regional architecture for residences and businesses alike often encompass a more classic, colonial style, and many homeowners like to align their design decisions with these established styles. Still, taking inspiration from another region’s popularized architecture is a great way to make a property truly stand out: Although this may diminish resale value, it may be the best choice for a homeowner who prioritizes personalization and uniqueness— especially if they intend to stay in that home.
“Home exterior styles vary by region, like Colonial in the Northeast, Mediterranean in the Southwest, and Craftsman in the Pacific Northwest. Clients often match their remodels to these styles for a cohesive look and
better resale value,” affirms Chris Morrell, general manager of Kirkin Exteriors.
Chapman describes how West Coast aesthetics are more aligned with the aforementioned conventional image of futuristic architecture, with a focus on a sleek look, open
spaces and clean lines. He explains that extracting even one element from these models—such as the incorporation of large areas of clear glass—can be an impactful personal touch. An especially innovative option for glass is CLiC switchable privacy glass, which allows for a
privacy layer when electricity is off and a completely clear view when electricity is activated.
“In this region, we often see bold, modern elements being combined with more traditional colonial styles, creating an exciting blend of the past and present. This combination allows homeowners to preserve the charm and history of colonial architecture while embracing modern, cutting-edge design,” says Chapman. “Clients often choose to reflect these regional trends in their remodels, but many also enjoy experimenting with blending different styles. Whether they lean into the minimalist, modern aesthetic of the West Coast or embrace a more eclectic fusion of old and new, it’s about finding a balance that suits their personal tastes and lifestyle.”
One should keep in mind, though, that regional styles are often related to the local climate. There is no better way to adapt to a climate by incorporating energyefficient technology, which is perhaps one of the trendiest and era-defining implementations. Glass glazing and
window solar technology are in the process of becoming more widespread: Rooftop solar systems in particular have also gained traction because they are cost-effective and kind to the earth by converting sunlight into electrical energy.
“We are super excited about GAF Timberline Solar Shingles. Not only do they save energy, but the tax credits and savings are an awesome additional benefit,” says Morrell.
Functionality, of course, is even more important than aesthetics. A home may look amazing, but an eye-catching aesthetic doesn’t matter if it makes living in that space more difficult. Finding the perfect blend of artistic vision and practical utilization is an essential part of the planning process.
“With garage doors, there’s a lot more to them in terms of: How much insulation do you want? Do you care about noise? Do you care about the spring technology, for example? Because the standard is for us to install the newest type of technology, which is the overhead storage that goes above the door,”
says Fadi Baaklini, owner of ProLift Garage Doors Lansdale. “And then it comes in different colors, shapes, sizes. We can make a match for siding. We can make it pop, have contrast. So, the sky’s the limit really, in terms of what you want from your door. And I think that’s the most important thing, because you can get something just off the rack, or you can get as detailed as you want.”
Considering each element can
drastically affect the look and feel of the entire home between each component. Color blocking can add dimension to a home with contrasting colors running horizontally between sections of siding or vertically between siding and the roof, such as pairing a neutral color with a bold color or even pairing black and white. Contrast is a long-established method of achieving and maintaining a modern look, especially since the standards of contemporary style
change from year to year.
Reflecting upon the longevity of different styles allows one to realize that while some trends are fleeting, many are timeless or cyclical; therefore, both old and new concepts can be classified as the pinnacle of haut decor.
“The trendiest right now I would say are [garage] doors with windows on the side that go up the side. Most garage doors, when you look at them, are just windows up top—the modern look, I would say,” says Baaklini. “And it doesn’t really work with all houses when you have the windows going down the side in a vertical way, [but] depending on the color, you can even get it at a premium in a woodplank style. So if you’re going for that mid-century modern look, it could work really well.”
Whether a project involves a partial exterior redesign or a full remodel, continued education, paying attention to details and accommodating expectations go a long way. Consulting an expert will ensure a smoother process and allow for the homeowner to
RESOURCES
Chapman Windows Doors & Siding West Chester, Pa. (610) 601-2480
ChapmanWindowsDoors.com
Kirkin Exteriors New Castle, DE (302) 832-ROOF
KirkinExteriors.com
ProLift Garage Doors Lansdale, Pa. (267) 490-3718
ProLiftDoors.com
focus on less technical considerations, which can make or break a project if they aren’t exact. With continually expanding options and opportunities, there is a perfect match to every vision to make the home exterior of one’s dreams a reality.
