Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, Frank Liantonio, Darren Slaughter, 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
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 news magazine with emphasis on home repair and remodeling. 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.
Family Values
Led
by the father-and-son duo of Mike and Eric Rosenello, Rosenello’s Windows, Siding & Roofing deepens its commitment to enhancing homes through honesty, integrity, and the finest products.
Mike Rosenello has witnessed quite a few changes in the nearly four decades since he started owning and operating Rosenello’s Windows, Siding & Roofing. From technological advancements to the evolution of product materials, the home-improvement industry has taken many dramatic steps forward. While most of those changes have been in the name of progress, Rosenello has found one particular trend to be rather alarming:
Family-operated businesses like his are becoming a rare breed.
He sees this dynamic as a cause for concern because he believes it will lead to a lack of true customer service—and homeowners will suffer as a result.
“A lot of family-owned companies are being bought up by large corporations, and there’s a major difference between corporate culture and family culture,” he says. “Not
only do they charge two or three times the value of a job, but there’s no personal touch. When you call a big company, the previous person you spoke to might have left months ago, and the person you’re talking to now has no idea about your project. That’s never the case with us. We build longstanding relationships with both employees and customers.”
Family is of the utmost importance to
Mike, a father of five and grandfather of eight, with a ninth on the way. He is thrilled to have several family members as part of the company, which celebrates its 40-year anniversary later this year. Mike’s son Eric, for example, has assumed a leadership position and is eager to help move the business forward.
Although he grew up around the business, Eric never envisioned running it one day. He has found his career choice quite rewarding, with the opportunity to put his marketing and management degree to good use on a daily basis. In addition, he’s pleased to see the trades becoming a more attractive career path, though he believes fields such as his can always use more resourceful and hardworking people.
“I realized it was a good line of work to pursue and [appreciated] the opportunity that was created for me,” he says. “I didn’t want to see the business change hands; I wanted to keep it as a Rosenello family business and grow the brand. I don’t know that my dad will ever retire, but I’m definitely enjoying helping run the dayto-day operations more.”
Eric learned from his father the cornerstone values upon which Rosenello’s was founded—namely, treating customers with respect, and always being upfront and honest.
“I’ve learned about treating people right,” he adds. “A lot of homeowners have horror stories with contractors, so we want to provide the type of service that we know can be provided in this industry. We’ve seen how other companies do things, and we think we’re able to do it much better.”
Mike focused solely on roofing when he first started the company, offering the best lifetime shingles and roofing products in the industry from manufacturers like GAF. Roofing remains a core part of the business, though the company’s menu of services has grown to include siding and replacement windows. Windows now take up a large portion of the business. Whether customers are seeking curb appeal, energy efficiency, or better functionality—or a combination of all three—Rosenello’s installs durable, aesthetic options from leading brands such as Andersen, OKNA, Pella, and ProVia.
Many customers choose to have windows and siding done at the same time. Rosenello’s offers vinyl siding from CertainTeed and James Hardie fiber cement siding, the latter of which is especially popular in South Jersey shore towns such as Avalon and Stone Harbor. In a way, Rosenello’s has come full circle. Mike, who grew up in Wildwood and graduated from Wildwood Catholic Academy, started the business in South Jersey and moved the enterprise to Bucks County as a means of fueling growth. Today, he’s proud to serve a wide cov-
erage area that stretches from Montgomery and Bucks counties to Central Jersey all the way down to Cape May and Northern Delaware.
“It’s a large area and a lot of people book us for their primary home and their summer home,” he says. “We have multiple clients who hired us 25 years ago and now they’re bringing us back because the experience was so good, or now we’re doing their kids’ houses. Repeat customers and referrals are a big part of our business.”
No matter which town a customer calls home or which services they need to enhance the value, visual appeal, and energy efficiency of their home, Mike says they can count on a positive experience with Rosenello’s. Employees never pressure a homeowner to buy a particular product or service, and when the team is hired for a project, they promise to treat the home as if it were their own.
“Our customers love our employees,” Eric says, adding that many employees have been with the company for decades. “We get phone calls, text messages, and emails all the time about how nice the employees are. If it’s an older customer who needs help with something else that doesn’t involve the project, they’ll take care of it while they’re there. Small stuff like that makes a difference, and it definitely feels good when you get those calls or messages about the employees going above and beyond. If you treat your employees well, they’ll treat the customers well.”
For the man who founded Rosenello’s
nearly 40 years ago, he believes the quality of his people represent the biggest difference between his company and his competitors.
“Our slogan used to be, ‘Unequaled products, price, and professionalism,’ and I still really believe that,” Mike says. “A lot of people have good windows, but their service isn’t as good; they forget about you a few years down the line. Then there are those who will give good service, but they charge so much for the windows.
“We try to provide a combination of all three,” he continues. “Our pricing is very good compared to the bigger companies, and you can see our professionalism in the way we get back to everyone immediately through calls, texts, or emails. We’re a family business, and we want to keep our name correct.”
Learn more about Rosenello’s in upcoming issues of House & Home. Mike and Eric Rosenello, as well as other members of the team, will share their perspective on customer service, expertise in home exteriors and windows, and the value of new products coming onto the market. To them, educating homeowners is just one more way Rosenello’s gives back to the communities it serves.
Mike and Eric Rosenello lead the family-owned and operated enterprise, which celebrates its 40-year anniversary later this year.
Featuring WE PROUDLY PRESENT THE 2024 SPOTLIGHTS and SHOWCASES
We are excited to present our ninth annual Best of House
& Home.
As voted by our readers, the following companies and professionals are being recognized for their quality products, expertise, top-notch customer service and reliability. We're also featuring a closer look at these companies in informative spotlights and showcases that shed some light on their dedication. For your next home project, there is no one better than these winners.
ADDITIONS
Rolf Schroeder General Contractor
215-672-0829
RolfSchroederGC com
Freedom General Contracting, Inc
215-794-0326
FreedomGCI com
APPLIANCES
Robert Stevens Scratch & Dent Outlets
215-742-7444
215-638-9494
RobertStevensAppliance com
ARTIFICIAL GRASS/TURF
Artificial Grass Turf Warehouse
201-971-2323
ArtificialGrassTurfWarehouse com
AWNINGS
Paul Construction & Awning, LLC
610-287-1623
AwningsDecksPatios com
Marygrove Awnings
1-800-AWNINGS
Marygrove com
BASEMENT REFINISHING
Water Dog Construction
215-317-4261
WaterDogConstruction com
BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
’58 Foundations
865-588-0371
58Foundations com
Aqua Dry Basement
Waterproofing
215-432-7122
AquaDryBasements com
Basement Waterproofing Specialists
800-700-9171
BasementWaterproofing Specialists com
BATH DESIGN
Emmons Remodeling
856-885-6677
EmmonsRemodeling com
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
800-375-3403
FergusonShowrooms com
McHales, Inc
215-488-7306
McHales net
CABINETRY
Carr Home 215-822-0505
CarrHome com
Shelly’s Design Center 215-257-6842
ShellysSupply com
Simply Cabinetry
215-659-7500
SimplyCabinetry com
CABINET PAINTING
Chameleon Cabinet Coatings
610-819-4410
ChameleonCabinetCoatings com
In Place Cabinetry Finishes
215-258-3808
InplaceFinishes com
CABINET REFACING
Capital Kitchen Refacing 267-907-3591
CapitalKkitchenRefacing com
Kitchen Tune-Up
610-364-5558
KitchenTuneUp com
Let’s Face It 215-343-2600
LFIKitchens com
CHIMNEY CLEANING
The Chimney Scientists 610-909-5585
ChimneyScientists com
CHRISTMAS LIGHTING
ELA Outdoor Living 215-794-2400
ELAOutdoorLiving com
CLOSET ORGANIZATION
Closet Factory 215-268-7660
ClosetFactory com
Closets By Design of SE Penn 610-537-8920
ClosetsByDesign com
Closets For Less of Bucks County 610-660-3080
Closets4LessBucks com
DECK DESIGN & BUILD
Amazing Decks 215-654-1886
AnotherAmazingDeck com
Deck Guardian 908-332-8577
DeckGuardian com
Keystone Custom Decks 717-553-0835
KeystoneCustomDecks com
DECKING SUPPLY
Sequoia Out Back 215-368-(RAIL) 7245
215-918-(DECK) 3325
DeckSupplies.com
DECORATIVE
STAMPED CONCRETE
Architectural Concrete Design
866-956-2818
ACDConcrete com
DOORS, INTERIOR
Freedom Millwork
215-642-2213
FreedomMillwork net
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
McHales, Inc 215-488-7306
McHales net
ELEVATORS
101 Mobility of Greater Philadelphia 855-For-Lift
101MobilityPhiladelphia com
FAUX FINISHING, WALL MURALS
Artistic Impressions
Decorative Painting 215-397-8962
ArtisticImpressionsPA com
FENCING
Great Valley Fence 215-364-7875
GVFence com
FIREPLACES & INSERTS
Better Homes Hearth & Patio 215-269-9900
BH-HP com
Newtown Fireplace Shop 215-968-3981
NewtownFireplaceShop com
FINANCING
Trumark Financial Credit Union
877-TruMark
TrumarkOnline org
FLOORING
Hampstead Floor Company
267-396-6107
HampsteadFloorCompany com
FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES
Country Lane Furniture 717-867-5701
CountryLaneFurniture com
Oskar Huber Fine Furniture 215-355-4800
OskarHuber com
The Buxton Complex 609-771-0274
TheBuxtonComplex com
GAME ROOM SUPPLIES
Royal Billiard and Recreation 215-997-7777
RoyalBilliard com
GARAGE DOORS
Prolift Doors Of Lansdale 267-337-5355
ProliftDoors com
GARAGE FLOOR RESURFACING
Floorguard 215-510-8326
Floorguard com
Everstone Floors of NEPA 833-243-8786
EverstoneFloorsOfNEPA com
GARAGE ORGANIZATION
Closets By Design of SE Penn 610-537-8920
ClosetsByDesign com
Closets For Less of Bucks County 610-660-3080
Closets4LessBucks com
GARDEN CENTER/ NURSERY
Holly Days Nursery & Garden Center 215-283-3228
HollyDaysNursery com
GRANITE & MARBLE, COUNTERTOPS
Colonial Marble & Granite 610-994-2222
ColonialMarble net
IST Granite 215-444-9773
ISTGranite com
Stonetech Fabrication 609-984-8818
StonetechMarble com
GENERATORS
Colonial Generators 844-376-9374
ColonialGenerators com
GRILLS
Better Homes Hearth & Patio 215-269-9900
BH-HP com
Grates & Grills
215-249-0182
GratesAndGrills com
HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE RENOVATIONS
101 Mobility of Greater Philadelphia 855-For-Lift
101MobilityPhiladelphia com
Total Access 610-738-1214
TotalAccessCo com
HANDYMAN SERVICE
Joe Ritchie, Inc
215-338-1000
JoeRitchieGeneralContractor net
HARDSCAPING DESIGN
DiCenso Landscaping
267-450-4236
DicensoLandscaping com
ELA Outdoor Living
215-794-2400
ELAOutdoorLiving com
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
Christian HVAC
215-357-5012
ChristianHVAC com
McHales, Inc
215-488-7306
McHales net
HOME AUTOMATION
Valley Automation
215-622-4915
ValleyAutomationLLC.com
INSULATION
Master Attic
800-285-4009
MasterAttic com
USA Insulation
267-551-1900
USAInsulation net
IN-LAW SUITES
LBK Design Build
215-675-5000
LBKDesignBuild com
KITCHEN DESIGN
Hometech Renovations, Inc.
215-987-4092
HTRenovations com
McHales, Inc
215-488-7306
McHales net
Tribe Kitchen Design
267-663-2801
TribeKitchenCo com
LANDSCAPE DESIGN
ELA Outdoor Living
215-794-2400
ELAOutdoorLiving com
Holly Days Nursery & Garden Center
215-283-3228
HollyDaysNursery com
Nickett Landscaping
215-345-1385
NickettLandscaping com
LANDSCAPE WATER REMEDIATION
Nickett Landscaping
215-345-1385
NickettLandscaping com
LAUNDRY ROOMS
Closets For Less of Bucks County 610-660-3080
Closets4LessBucks com
LAWN MAINTENANCE
Delaware Valley Turf
610-328-4170
DelawareValleyTurf com
LIGHTING – INDOOR
Bergey’s Showroom
215-723-5518
BergeysElectric com
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
800-375-3403
FergusonShowrooms com
MULCH/STONE/SOIL
Victory Gardens
215-443-5665
VictoryGardensInc com
OUTDOOR FURNITURE
Better Homes Hearth & Patio 215-269-9900
BH-HP com
Sequoia Out Back 215-918-3325
DeckSupplies com
The Buxton Complex 609-771-0274
TheBuxtonComplex com
OUTDOOR KITCHENS
ELA Outdoor Living 215-794-2400
ELAOutdoorLiving com
DiCenso Landscaping
267-450-4236
DiCensoLandscaping com
OUTDOOR STRUCTURES/PATIO COVERS
First State Building & Design
302-803-5082
FirstStateBuildingAndDesign .com
The Louvered Roof (610) 310-0429
TheLouveredRoofCompany com
PAINTING SERVICE
Colkett Painting
215-257-5252
ColkettPainting com
PAVERS/RETAINING WALLS
Nyce Crete
215-723-5506
LandisBC com
PAVING/ASPHALT
Burke Asphalt
484-228-1776
BurkeAsphalt com
Go Direct Paving 610-714-1439
GoDirectPaving com
PLAY SYSTEMS
Creative Playthings
267-710-5310
CreativePlaythings com
PLUMBING SERVICE
AJ Dembrosky Company 215-257-1144
AJDembrosky com
Bill Frusco Plumbing, Heating, Cooling 215-728-1482
Rosenello’s Windows Siding & Roofing 215-244-3993 RosenellosWindows com
WINDOW TINTING
Doyle Window Tinting 215-657-1000 DoyleWindowTinting com
WINDOW TREATMENTS
Blind Builders, Inc 215-322-5855 BlindBuilders com
Blinds Shade & Shutter Factory 215-491-4400
BlindsShadeAndShutter Factory com
WOOD MOLDING/ TRIMWORK
Home Trimwork 215-613-4100
HomeTrimwork com
ask the expert
by Chelsea Valcourt
OFTEN THE LEAST-DISCUSSED PART OF THE EXTERIOR, SIDING PLAYS AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE AESTHETIC AND FUNCTIONALITY OF YOUR HOME.
Riddick Roofing
Siding can be very versatile from fun colors to help your home stand out on the block to different materials designed to keep heating costs down.
House & Home spoke with Nathan Oberto, a home improvement specialist from Riddick Roofing, about the importance of siding, how to spot potential issues and the options available to homeowners.
WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF SIDING?
Siding is a critical element in protecting and enhancing a home. Beyond aesthetics, it plays a key role in insulation, soundproofing and shielding the structure from environmental damage.
Siding can significantly block outside noise. Insulated siding acts as a barrier, absorbing and deflecting sound waves. Fiber cement siding is going to be best for soundproofing as it is dense and rigid, whereas wood siding may depend on thickness and type.
Siding also plays a pivotal role in maintaining a home’s thermal envelope by preventing heat transfer. Fortunately there have been innovations to ensure the highest efficiency. In colder climates, insulated foambacked siding is going to reduce thermal bridging; in warmer climates, reflective coatings can help minimize heat absorption and keep the inside of the home nice and cool. Smart ventilation systems can also come built into materials to help regulate airflow. Energy-efficient siding paired with proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 15%.
Most importantly, siding protects a home from pests and moisture. Properly
installed siding prevents water infiltration, protects from rot and mold, and high-quality materials and sealed installations deter insects and rodents. Poor maintenance or damage can allow water and pests to penetrate, leading to structural rot, compromised insulation and increased repair costs.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF DIY SIDING INSTALLATION OR REPAIRS, AND WHY IS IT BEST LEFT TO PROFESSIONALS?
Improper installation can lead to water leaks, buckling or gaps. Professionals ensure adherence to local zoning and HOA regulations, that proper permits are obtained and that the work is in compliance with building codes—complete with long-lasting, warranty-backed workmanship. DIY attempts can result in costly errors, void warranties or require reinstallation.
WHAT OPTIONS DO HOMEOWNERS HAVE?
There are three main options homeowners have when it comes to siding: vinyl, fiber cement and wood. Vinyl is affordable, lowmaintenance and weather-resistant, whereas fiber cement is a bit pricier but more durable, fire resistant and available in various textures. Wood siding is mostly done for aesthetic purposes—meaning it looks great but does require regular maintenance.
In addition to the type of siding a homeowner can choose, there are also eco-friendly options. A few examples include recycled vinyl or composite materials, wood from responsibly managed forests and fiber cement with eco-friendly manufacturing processes. While these options may have higher upfront costs, they provide comparable durability and performance while minimizing environmental impact.
WHAT SHOULD HOMEOWNERS LOOK FOR IN TERMS OF INSTALLATION,
MAINTENANCE
AND
REPAIRS?
Warping, buckling or sagging panels, persistent mold or mildew growth, visible water damage or pest infestations are signs you may need to replace your siding.
After your siding is installed, keep an eye out for uneven panels or gaps, loose siding that flutters in the wind, and poorly-sealed edges and trim as these red flags may indicate improper installation. Fixing these issues early can minimize damage to the home’s structure and avoid more costly repairs.
In terms of maintenance, each style of siding will require different maintenance and even with the best maintenance, they will all eventually need replacing. Vinyl siding should last 20-40 years and requires periodic cleaning. Fiber cement siding has a lifespan of 30-50 years and requires minimal maintenance. Wood siding is the most tedious; built to last 15-20 years, wood requires the most maintenance including sealing and repainting.
WHAT’S THE CONNECTION BETWEEN SIDING, GUTTERS AND ROOF EDGES, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO COORDINATE THESE SYSTEMS?
Proper coordination ensures water is directed away from the structure, preventing foundation erosion, roofline leaks and siding rot or water damage. A cohesive system improves the home’s overall durability and appearance.
Nathan Oberto, home improvement specialist
MAXIMIZING CREATIVE POTENTIAL
BY CARLY MURRAY
Gone are the days of rarely-traversed basements, used solely as a storage space and visited seasonally to obtain holiday decorations. Basements are now viewed more commonly as a first floor, with an open-concept style akin to a blank canvas. When considering a dream home, one might envision a home theater, a customized arcade with a personal bar, a sports-themed hangout for game day, an extensive library filled wall-towall with books, a fitness room, a collector’s haven—a combination, or something else entirely.
“Most people don’t just say, ‘We have this space, we ought to finish it.’ They’re probably thinking: it’s space for the kids to play, it’s a game room for adults, it’s an exercise area, it’s a home theater, it’s another family room. If they think through it in that way, that’s a big help for us,” says Dennis Gehman, pres-
When it comes to basements nowadays, there is no vision that is unattainable—and there’s no better way to express ideas than with a large, open space.
MAXIMIZING CREATIVE POTENTIAL
ident of Gehman Design Remodeling. These ideas and more are possible with the vision, commitment and professional resources. The extent of one’s imagination can be replicated with a transformation that is uniquely theirs, and that fits the character of the home and its members.
Joe Magolon, owner of Stonebridge Renovations, points out that basement en-
tertainment areas have increasingly become a space for the entire family to create memories while enjoying their individualized attributes. One of the many creative ideas he’s seen lately are chalkboard walls for the family to customize and to play with.
“I feel like the whole family’s getting involved downstairs; there isn’t just a kid area or an adult area anymore,” he explains. “We’ve recently just done [a project] that had a home gym with a big, glass door and panels, so it still feels open with a lot of natural light. It had a kitchenette, plenty of space for entertaining and counter space. It hit on everything: It had that family living space to hang out, it had the pool table area, it had an area for the kids and their games.”
Refurbishing a full-sized arcade machine with new buttons and controllers, which come in several colors and styles, is a great idea for a passionate collector—and can be a show-stopping focal point for a game room. However, if quantity is the goal, there is a large range of smaller, portable arcade machines that can transform a basement into a game-lined retro arcade. Of course, this would not be complete without
one or more table games to provide that classic warmth.
“Eighty percent of what we sell is extremely customizable; you can completely do whatever. You could really change the look, you could change the wood and there are multiple finishes available,” says Audra DelConte, owner of Royal Billiard & Recreation. “The bar that is often down in that lower-level space will also be coordinated with the game tables … but our specialty is doing a whole package for people to complete their room. All of our products—whether bar, card table, pool table—can be coordinated.”
Basement bars can be found in trendy lower-level areas in households both with and without children. In entertainment spaces designated for all ages, liquor can be concealed and stored in safe, locked cabinets. And for homes with adults only, it can be displayed in a variety of inventive ways. DelConte comments that a lot of people are embracing a speakeasy aesthetic lately—with dark, moody colors, classic and cozy designs and hidden features. Popularly utilized smart home automation harmonizes modern and vintage by allowing convenience
MAXIMIZING CREATIVE POTENTIAL
and easily-altered atmospheric conditions like colored lights, music and more.
“People are doing some really cool, hidden built-in storage for [table game accessories]. A lot of the pool tables we sell have a hidden storage door built into them. So, that kind of goes along the lines of that [speakeasy] theme. Reclaimed wood products are still going strong— we see a lot of that and the rustic look, but we are seeing more of the traditional Queen Anne style,” DelConte says.
Fitting into this trend perfectly are Murphy Doors, which are designed to open to hidden spaces. This incorporates a feeling of magic as well as provides extra security for valuables. They also function as an easy way to divide the space into different designated areas. Ultimately, there is still a major storage element to consider in the basement though it is no longer the main purpose.
“We like to get creative with storage areas … like little nooks under the stairs, we’ve done drink rails in the entertainment area. A lot of people lately have been loving the Murphy Doors,” says Magolon. “It looks like a bookshelf, and it brings you back to, like, a wine cellar or different areas like that. The Murphy Doors have definitely been up and coming, [as are] custom built-ins for more storage.”
Finishing a basement is not only fun and games— even though the finished product will be. A consideration of utilities is key to obtaining a successful final result. A professional can help place appliances and demonstrate ways to conceal or blend in unsightly elements like electrical panels. Keeping this in mind extends beyond ap-
pearances, as it also may affect comfort within and enjoyability of the area.
“One of the things that people are often surprised about is, when they want to finish the basement, typically it’s going to involve HVAC, because they want that space to be comfortable. Most of the time, the existing heating and air conditioning systems in the home are not large enough for that additional square footage,” explains Gehman.
He adds that planning for this in advance helps people budget properly, and that he is required to insulate basement walls—which helps conserve energy. A good contractor can assist clients in considering all of these necessary factors with time estimates and what local regulations may be relevant to each home. Then, one can focus on the most important part: allowing imagination, personalization and artistry to take flight.
HEN IT COMES TO HOME PROJECTS, ONE OF THE WORST SCENARIOS IS TAKING A STEP BACK FROM AN EXPENSIVE AND COMPLICATED PROJECT, AND FEELING DISAPPOINTED. MAYBE THE CABINETS AREN’T THE RIGHT SHADE OF BLUE OR THE WINDOWS YOU LOVED ON PINTEREST LOOK STRANGE IN YOUR SPACE; EITHER WAY YOU’VE SPENT TOO MUCH TIME AND MONEY TO GO BACK NOW.
There is a simple way to prevent this: visiting a design showroom prior to starting a home project. Showrooms and design centers offer the ability to get a better understanding of the products you’re purchasing for your home and perhaps to find options you didn’t know existed.
House & Home spoke with Herb Benjamin, CEO of Freedom Millwork, about Freedom’s most recent expansion: a brand-new showroom, 6209 Design.
WHAT BENEFITS DO SHOWROOMS LIKE 6209 DESIGN PROVIDE FOR DESIGNERS AND HOMEOWNERS?
The showroom is a place for people who want to make decisions—and to have a bit of control over what they’re putting into their home. In today’s world, the culture is one of immediate gratification, and people tend to buy a lot of things off the internet without ever interacting with them. When you’re looking at large purchases for your home—whether kitchens, custom cabinetry, windows or doors—the opportunity to see and touch those products is tremendously beneficial. We stock our showroom with high-quality products from reputable companies to ensure multiple options for most needs and budgets.
In addition to being able to visualize and interact with the products, our design experts are extremely knowledgeable about each of the products. At a big-box store, while its designers may be good, they may be limited in the designs they can create
and the attention they can dedicate to your project. The goal of our design center isn’t to pressure someone, but to find the perfect fit for each individual project—from kitchen designs to custom wine cellars to bookshelves.
FROM SHOWROOM TO PROJECT, TELL ME ABOUT THAT PROCESS.
When you walk into the showroom, you will be greeted by a design professional who will work with you on your project, whether it is cabinetry for a kitchen or another room. The first step is fact gathering. We need to understand dreams, wishes, wants and needs. We will also strive to understand budgetary constraints and which is more important, function or aesthetics.
The next step is to work on the design. That’s where the magic happens. Everything that was discussed during the fact-gathering stage is incorporated into a preliminary design. From there, the design is modified to more selectively represent the combined vision. This is done through line drawings and computer 3D renderings of the project.
Once the design is finalized, we will conduct a site visit to confirm all measure-
ments. We typically work with the customer’s contractor or we can provide installation services as well.
FREEDOM MILLWORK RECENTLY CELEBRATED 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS; HOW HAS THE COMPANY GROWN SINCE 2014 AND WHAT ARE THE PLANS FOR THE NEXT DECADE?
From our humble beginnings with six employees to a work place of over 50 employees, we have been very fortunate in our ability to show double-digit growth as a company. We have also integrated two acquisitions. About four years ago, we purchased a finishing company so we could be in control of the quality and scheduling of millwork finishing. This company—now Freedom Finishing—finishes the custom cabinetry that we build, but also cabinetry for other custom woodworkers. Freedom Finishing also does kitchen refinishing, touch-ups and small repairs. About two years ago, we acquired another custom cabinet company, and assimilated them into our facility. We moved from one building of about 15,000 square feet to another of almost 25,000 square feet. This larger building allowed us to create a state-of-the-art showroom where we display all our custom cabinetry, kitchens, windows, interior and exterior doors, and hardware, giving customers a unique one-stop shopping experience.
Word of mouth has been extremely beneficial for us. Every week we get people who come in who have seen our building before but didn’t know what we did until they talked to a friend or neighbor about an upcoming project. They’ll tell us their neighbor said: “You need to go see the guys at Freedom Millwork. They’ve got everything there.”
Herb Benjamin, CEO
SEASONAL
A Fresh Look
by KRISTEN JORGENSEN
Want to refresh your space but have a small budget and limited time? Creating a fresh and inviting look in your home doesn’t have to involve a major renovation or hefty expenses. With some creativity and a few simple changes, you can breathe new life into your living spaces.
We asked a few leading professionals in the industry to help gather ideas and inspirations, along with discussing upcoming trends. Whichever technique for, these experts all agree that your your sanctuary, and giving it a fresh look can make it feel more welcoming and rejuvenating.
Add a Splash of Color
Color has the power to transform a space. A bold accent wall in the living room or a pop of color through accessories like throw pillows, blankets or rugs can make a huge impact.
“We’re seeing a lot of homeowners have the courage to go bold with paint,” says Daniel Carhart, owner of Star Painting and Wallcovering.
Deep burgundy, brown and green hues are growing in popularity steering the trend to a much more moody aesthetic.
“Homeowners are not only opting for deeper colors, they are saturating the space with it. The bright whites and neutral grays have made way for rich earth tones and bolder options,” adds Carhart.
Another trending option to bring color to a space is painting the ceiling. “You’ll often hear people referring to the ceiling as the ‘fifth wall’ and homeowners are deciding to bring those rich colors to the whole room, including the ceiling. In some instances, they paint just the ceiling as the focal point or statement wall with a darker color,” Carhart says.
Wall Updates & Textures
Of course, painting is a quick and easy way to make a big impact in a room, but adding other smaller additions to your walls is also a great way to freshen up your living space. Utilizing artwork or shelving can add visual interest to an otherwise uninspiring room.
Designers suggest you hang a new statement of art or create a gallery wall with photos, prints or even framed textiles. Or with the addition of floating shelves, you can easily display books, plants and even curated collections.
Texture, too, can refresh a space— think soft velvet cushions, chunky knit throws or woven baskets for added depth.
“We’re definitely seeing more prints and more textures being used in homes,” says Isabelle Tarikyan, from Mike’s Upholstery. “Not only are they showing up on home accessories, but homeowners are also opting to bring texto the walls via wallpaper. For a long time, designers moved away from wallpaper, naming outdated, but it is making a huge comeback.”
Tarikyan says that by partnering with brands like Schumacher, the colors, prints and texture options are endless. “There is something for everyone’s sense of style and desired design goals. If you can dream it, we can help you achieve it.”
Millwork and Moldings
Millwork and moldings have surged in popularity in recent years as homeowners and de-
signers increasingly recognize their ability to elevate a space’s aesthetic appeal. These architectural details, including crown molding, baseboards, wainscoting and custom trims, add depth and character to otherwise plain walls and ceilings. They serve as the perfect finishing touch, blending form and function by framing spaces and hiding imperfections. Whether it’s the classic elegance of coffered ceilings or the clean lines of modern shiplap, millwork and moldings provide a tailored look that resonates with a wide range of interior styles, from traditional to contemporary.
One reason for their enduring appeal is their versatility. “Millwork and moldings can transform a space without requiring a complete overhaul, making them a costeffective option for home improvement” shares Pavlo Danylchenko, owner of Signature Woodcraft. “Their customization potential allows homeowners to match these elements to the unique style of their home.”
A Fresh Look
With materials ranging from traditional wood to more affordable, eco-friendly alternatives like MDF, installing this type of upgrade to the home is accessible to most. Additionally, social media and home design shows have further popularized these features, showcasing how simple additions like crown molding or decorative paneling can dramatically enhance a space’s sophistication. As a result, these design elements have become go-to choices for creating timeless, high-impact interiors.
Rearrange:
Making the Old Feel New Again
Simply rearranging what you already have can also make a noticeable difference. This technique is meant to help you refresh your home affordably by using items you already have. It’s simply a matter of
reconfiguring your furniture, swapping a few items, and voila—your space feels brand new.
The idea is that you can restyle your space without spending much money, contrary to what many of us believe we need
for designing a space—which is to go out and find new pieces. The process involves decluttering, reorganizing and even changing up the purpose of an existing room to breathe new life into it. Sometimes, a new perspective is all you need. Moving your
photo credit: Joseph Hendrickson/Shutterstock.com
furniture around can transform the look of a room without spending a dime. Experiment with different layouts to create a sense of openness or intimacy, depending on your preference.
Refreshing your home is about finding joy in your space again. Whether it’s
through rearranging furniture, adding pops of color or even just decluttering your belongings, even the smallest changes can have a huge impact.
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.
