Imperial Marble & Granite
Providing dedicated customer service and exclusive products to more homeowners page 27
Expand your living space with creative approaches to the basement
Guidance to find the perfect stone products for your next project page 11
Expand your living space with creative approaches to the basement A FRESH LOOK
Simple changes can transform the look and feel of your home
PUBLISHER
Edward P. McCartney
EDITOR
Peter Proko
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Matt Cosentino, Madeleine Maccar, Carly Murray
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristen Jorgensen, Chelsea Valcourt
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Hank Alspach
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Brian Mikulski
DESIGNERS
Alex Bianco, Jay Urbaniak, Lisa Zollinger
ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR
Darlene Versak
SALES DIRECTOR
Lindsay Gonzalez
SALES MANAGER
Jim Romano
NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPER
Chuck McKane
MARKETING CONSULTANTS
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.
ask the expert
by Liz Hunter
SAAA Hellenic
TONE MATERIALS ARE ESSENTIALLY THE ICING OF ANY KITCHEN OR BATHROOM PROJECT, PROVIDING BOTH THE FUNCTIONAL VALUE OF PULLING THE ROOM’S COMPONENTS TOGETHER AND SOMETHING PLEASING FOR THE EYE.
Choosing the perfect stone takes careful consideration, and the guidance of someone who knows the product. At AAA Hellenic, customers can turn to professionals who have decades of experience designing and installing stone in kitchens, bathrooms, foyers, fireplaces and even in outdoor living spaces. Mike Werner, sales manager, is one such expert who has been with the family-focused company for more than 10 years.
House & Home spoke with Werner about how new products from Silestone and Dekton are giving people the high-end looks they’ve wanted at a more reasonable price.
Mike Werner, sales manager
WHEN YOU MEET WITH CLIENTS, WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THEIR LIFESTYLE TO GUIDE THEIR SELECTION?
Most individuals typically have saved pictures they found online or in magazines to establish an idea of their design preferences. We also want to know about what’s going on in the space where the stone will be used. Every household is different. Materials they might like or find attractive might not be the best choice for their home. Granite is very dense and durable. It is heat resistant and scratch resistant, with minimal maintenance. Marble
is a classic choice with unrivaled beauty and gives you a timeless look. It may be a little softer than granite, but will still give you a very durable surface.
CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THE EMERGING POPULARITY OF NATURAL STONE QUARTZITE AND YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF IT?
Engineered quartz has gained popularity over the past couple of years, but natural stone is still the most requested for its beauty and durability. Natural stone quartzite is an especially good choice for kitchens. Everyone likes the look of marble, but it’s softer and more porous. Quartzite is a dense stone that can handle the impact and functionality in a kitchen, and it’s not as porous.
We directly import this stone from the quarries to our facility, which enables us to
pass discounted pricing on to clients for rare quartzites in a wide variety of colors. The materials are temperamental and require a high level of care and precision, which Hellenic excels and specializes in.
WHAT ARE THE NEWEST MATERIALS ON THE MARKET AND WHERE ARE THEY BEST USED IN THE HOME?
We’re really excited about the design potential with products from Silestone and Dekton in shower wall and bathroom applications. People have been longing for a solid-slab, seamless look on their shower walls—nobody likes grout joints—but this comes with additional labor to get these large slabs into tight shower spaces. These new products are more durable and thinner, making them easier to transport and install. Silestone is engineered quartz and in particular has some nice combinations of natural stone-looking materials, as well as muted patterns for the monochromatic look people want. Dekton is a porcelain and glass hybrid with quartz that is more durable and still gives that desirable natural stone look. This is something that we are specializing in.
HOW CAN CUSTOMERS ARRANGE TO VISIT YOUR SLAB YARD TO SEE THEIR OPTIONS?
Our slab yard is open by appointment so we can control the amount of people in the building at a time, everything is spaced out and we also have outdoor inventory available weather permitting. We have implemented additional safety measures, including UV light systems and UV air purifiers to reduce airborne contaminants and provide more peace of mind for customers. We also offer virtual appointments.
Our inventory of marble, granite, soapstone and quartzite is very strong right now, we’ve added a lot of new products for people. We have about 200 different colors on display, and our stones are directly imported from places like Italy, Brazil and Africa. It’s always beneficial to walk through and see the stone in different lighting, and more often than not, people find something they never expected.
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
Beechdale Builders
717-278-3683
BeechdaleBuildersLLC.com
Trailway Construction
610-273-2328
TrailwayConstruction.com
APPLIANCES
D & K Appliances
610-356-2424
DKAppliances.com
ARTIFICIAL GRASS/TURF
Artificial Grass Turf Warehouse
201-971-2323
ArtificialGrassTurfWarehouse .com
AWNINGS
Great Valley Awning & Tent
610-889-0711
GreatValleyPool.com
BASEMENT REFINISHING
Stonebridge Renovations
484-459-4920
SB-Renovations.com
BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
Basement Systems USA
833-359-0600
BasementSystemsUSA.com
Basement Waterproofing Specialists
800-700-9171
BasementWaterproofing Specialists.com
Dry Guys Waterproofing
844-641-1315
DryGuys.com
BATH DESIGN
Carranza Roofing and Remodeling
610-671-3747
CarranzaContracting.com
Emmons Remodeling
856-885-6677
EmmonsRemodeling.com
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
800-375-3403
FergusonShowrooms.com
BUILDING SUPPLY
Brandywine Building Supply 610-273-3817
BrandywineBuildingSupply .com
CABINETRY
Main Line Kitchen Design 610-510-2056
MainLineKitchenDesign.com
Master Design Cabinetry
610-273-2212
MasterDesignCabinetry.com
Sunny Cove Cabinetry 717-500-4540 SunnyCoveCabinetry.com
CABINET REFACING
CPOS Refacing 484-841-6204 CPOSRefacing.com
Kitchen Tune-Up
610-364-5558 KitchenTuneUp.com
Let’s Face It 215-600-2154 LFIKitchens.com
CABINET REFINISHING
Chameleon Cabinet Coatings
717-431-6440
ChameleonCabinetCoatings com
HBD Painting 484-356-8791
HBDPainting.com
CHIMNEY CLEANING
D.J. Cross, Inc 610-859-3776 DJCrossInc.com
The Chimney Scientists 610-909-5585
ChimneyScientists.com
CHRISTMAS LIGHTING
Vesta Wash 484-582-6799
WeHangChristmasLights .com
CLOSET ORGANIZATION
Closets By Design SE PENN
866-278-8881
ClosetsByDesign.com
Closet Factory 215-268-7660
ClosetFactory.com
DECK BUILDER
Decks-R-Us 717-407-5623
DecksRUsLLC.com
Deck Craft Plus 610-273-3317
DeckCraftCustomDecks.com
Keystone Custom Decks 717-355-0592
KeystoneCustomDecks.com
DECKING SUPPLIES
Brandywine Building Supply 610-273-3817
BrandywineBuildingSupply .com
Sequoia Out Back 215-368-(RAIL) 7245 215-918-(DECK) 3325
DeckSupplies.com
DECORATIVE STAMPED CONCRETE
Architectural Concrete Design
866-956-2818
ACDConcrete.com
Boss Crete, LLC
717-283-7764
BossCrete.net
DOORS, INTERIOR
Freedom Millwork 215-642-2213
FreedomMillwork.net
One Day Doors & Closets of Philly
267-508-7906
OneDayPhilly.com
DUCT CLEANING
Vesta Wash 877-625-9325
VestaDuctCleaning.com
ELEVATORS
Total Access 610-738-1214
TotalAccessCo.com
FENCING
Chester County Fencing 610-273-3300
ChesterCountyFencing.com
Gillespie Fence and Landscape 610-322-4472
GillespieLandscaping.com
FIREPLACES & INSERTS
Gas Works 610-296-3557
4GasWorks.com
FINANCING
Trumark Financial Credit Union 215-953-5414
TrumarkOnline.org
FLOORING
Heritage Floors 717-687-7906
CarpetLancasterPA.com
FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES
Blue Ridge Furniture 717-445-6595
BlueridgeHeirlooms.com
Country Lane Furniture 717-867-5701
CountryLaneFurniture.com
GARAGE DOORS
Smoker Door Sales 717-442-5070
SmokerDoorSales.com
GARAGE FLOOR RESURFACING
Duramax Concrete
Coatings 610-286-7749
DuramaxCoatings.com
Floorguard 215-510-8326
Floorguard.com
GARAGE ORGANIZATION
Closets By Design SE PENN 866-278-8881
ClosetsByDesign.com
Garage Experts
484-997-6644 GarageExperts.com
GARDEN CENTER/ NURSERY
Main Line Gardens 610-644-2300
MainLineGardens.com
GRANITE & MARBLE, COUNTERTOPS
AAA Hellenic Marble & Granite 610-344-7700
AAAMarble.com
Colonial Marble & Granite 610-994-2222
ColonialMarble.net
Imperial Marble & Granite 610-521-0130
IMGStone.net
GENERATORS
Colonial Generators 844-376-9374
ColonialGenerators.com
GRILLS
Gas Works
610-296-3557
4GasWorks.com
HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE RENOVATIONS
Total Access 610-738-1214
TotalAccessCo.com
HARDSCAPING DESIGN
Dutchies Stone Works 717-587-8789
DutchiesStoneWorks.com
Schnatz & Rohrer
Landscaping
610-696-5108
SchnatzAndRohrer Landscaping.com
Smucker’s Hardscaping 717-940-2376
SmuckersHardscaping.com
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
MoreVent Services
610-444-2088
MoreVentServices.com
HOLIDAY LIGHTING
Platoon Lighting
610-200-6675
HolidaylLghtingInstallPA .com
HOME THEATERS
Surround Sounds
610-524-6900
SurroundSounds.com
INSULATION
Master Attic
800-285-4009
MasterAttic.com
INTERIOR DESIGN
Kiyoko Custom Interiors 484-883-1014
KITCHEN DESIGN
Concept Kitchen & Bath
610-860-4020 ConceptKB.com
Dilworth’s Kitchen & Bath
Remodeling
610-917-9119
DilworthsCustomDesign.com
Hometech Renovations, Inc. 215-987-4092
HTRenovations.com
LANDSCAPE DESIGN
CKC Landscaping
610-436-1810
CKCLandscapinginc.com
C. M. Jones, Inc
610-644-7224 CMJonesInc.com
LAWN MAINTENANCE
EcoGreen Lawn Care
610-584-3266
EcoGreenOganicLawnCare .com
LIGHTING – INDOOR
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery (800) 375-3403 FergusonShowrooms.com
Home Lighting of Frazer
610-647-2370
HomeLightingInc.com
MULCH/STONE/SOIL
Mulch & More
610-644-8086
Mulch-N-More.com
NATURAL STONEWORK
Dutchie’s Stone Works 717-587-8789
DutchiesStoneWorks.com
NEW HOME BUILDER
Garman Builders, LLC 717-733-1606
GarmanBuilders.com
ORIENTAL RUG
SALES & CLEANING
Kazanjian Fine Oriental Rug Company
610-525-2333
KazanjianGallery.com
ORNAMENTAL IRONWORKS
A&R Ironworks
610-497-8770
ARIron.com
OUTDOOR FURNITURE
Sequoia Out Back 215-918-3325
DeckSupplies.com
Tropicraft by Pavillon du Soleil 610-645-5400
TropicraftPatio.com
OUTDOOR KITCHENS
Dutchies Stone Works 717-587-8789
DutchiesStoneWorks.com
OUTDOOR STRUCTURES, GAZEBOS, PERGOLAS, PATIO COVERS
First State Building & Design
302-803-5082
FSBD.co
The Louvered Roof Company 610-310-0429
TheLouveredRoofCompany .com
PAINTING
Penn Valley Painting & Wall Covering 484-678-2907
PennValleyPainting.com
Rhino Shield 717-638-4100
MyRhinoShield.com
PAVERS/RETAINING WALLS
Brandywine Quarry 610-857-4200
BrandywineQuarry.com
PAVING
Burke Asphalt
484-228-1776
BurkeAsphalt.com
Go Direct Paving
610-714-1439
GoDirectPaving.com
PLAY SYSTEMS
King Swings
717-687-8210
KingSwingSets.com
The Backyard Showcase
717-925-3068
TheBackyardShowcase.com
PLANTATION SHUTTERS
The Louver Shop
610-633-5410
LouverShop.com
PLUMBING SERVICE
Mattioni Plumbing
Heating & Cooling
610-269-0884
MatPlumbing.com
Wm Henderson Plumbing & Heating
610-544-7999
WMHendersonInc.com
PLUMBING SUPPLY
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
800-375-3403
FergusonShowrooms.com
POOL DESIGN / INSTALLATION
California Pools of Philadelphia 800-282-7665
CaliforniaPools.com
Keystone Custom Decks
717-553-0835
KeystoneCustomDecks.com
Ted’s Pools
610-359-1301
TedsPools.net
POOLS – FIBERGLASS
Ordini’s Best Fiberglass Pools
215-602-3485
OrdinisSwim1Day.com
Pool Designs
609-257-2279
PoolInADay.com
POOL SERVICE & SUPPLIES
Great Valley Pool Service 855-278-8670
GreatValleyPool.com
POWERWASHING
Softwash Platoon
610-494-8490
SoftwashPlatoon.com
Vesta Wash
877-625-9325
VestaDuctCleaning.com
REALTOR
Lori Vorgang
610-329-4789
REMODELER/ BUILDER
Beechdale Builders 717-278-3683
BeechDaleBuildersLLC.com
Griffiths Construction
610-827-7990
GriffithsConstruction.net
Trailway Construction 610-273-2328
TrailwayConstruction.com
ROOFING
Carranza Roofing and Remodeling 610-671-3747
CarranzaContracting.com
E & E Contracting 717-442-4814
EEContractingLLC.com
Pine Tree Exteriors 717-327-1745
PineTreeRoof.com
SCREENED PORCHES
First State Building & Design 302-803-5082
FSBD.co
Kings Outdoor Living
717-415-8249
KingsOutdoorLivingLLC.com
SHEDS & OUTDOOR STRUCTURES
Mainline Outdoor Living 717-858-2425
MainLeOutdoorLiving.com
Reihl Quality Storage Barns 717-442-8655 RiehlQuality.com
SHOWER DOORS
Michael’s Glass Company 215-338-3293 MichaelsGlassCo.com
SHOWER REPLACEMENT
Home Smart Industries 888-560-2592
HomeSmaInd.com
SIDING
Chapman Windows Doors Siding 610-400-3382
ChapmanWindowsDoors.com
NA Roofing & Siding
302-548-3299 DNARoofingSiding.com
Roof Ninja 717-945-9787
RoofNinjaLLC.com
Spas/Hot Tubs
Ordini’s Best Fiberglass Pools
215-602-3485
OrdinisSwim1day.com
STONE, NATURAL STONE PAVERS & VENEER
Brandywine Quarry 610-857-4200 BrandywineQuarry.com
STUCCO REMEDIATION
Chapman Windows Doors Siding 610-400-3382
ChapmanWindowsDoors.com
M. Jay Builders 610-656-9389 MJayBuilders.com
SUNROOMS & PATIO ENCLOSURES Archadeck 610-696-3340 Archadeck.com
TILE
AAA Hellenic Marble & Granite 610-344-7700 AAAMarble.com
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery 800-375-3403 FergusonShowrooms.com
WALK IN TUBS
Home Smart Industries 888-560-2592 HomeSmartInd.com
PJ Fitzpatrick 866-832-7204 TrustPJ.com
WATER CONDITIONING
Martin Water Conditioning 800-887-7555
MartinWater.com
WATER FEATURE DESIGN/PONDS Ponds By George 215-396-7500 PondsByGeorge.com
WINDOWS & DOORS
Chapman Windows Doors Siding 610-400-3382 ChapmanWindowsDoors.com
Global Home Improvement 866-735-1121 GlobalHomeInc.com
WINDOW TINTING JSR Window Tinting 610-692-3370 JSRWindowTinting.com
WINDOW TREATMENTS/ BLINDS/SHUTTERS
Heritage Design Interiors 717-354-2233 HeritageDesignInteriors.com
M.C. Weeks Inc. Window Treatments & Outdoor Kitchens 610-489-7231 MCWeeksInc.com
WOOD COUNTERTOPS AND BARTOPS
Custom Taylor’d Carpentry 267-683-5666 CustomTaylordCarpentry.com
WOOD MOLDING/ TRIMWORK
Home Trimwork 215-613-4100 HomeTrimwork.com
Signature Woodcraft 267-736-9740
SignatureWCraft.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
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.
RESOURCES
Gehman Design Remodeling Harleysville, Pa. (215) 513-0300
GehmanRemodeling.com
Royal Billiard & Recreation Colmar, Pa. (215) 997-7777
RoyalBilliard.com
Stonebridge Renovations Malvern, Pa. (484) 459-4920
Sb-Renovations.com
Imperial Marble & Granite
Main location: 200 Old Tinicum Island Road, H Complex, Essington, Pa. (610) 521-0130
Showroom: 1311 West Chester Pike, West Chester, Pa. (610) 738-5277 | IMGStone.net
granite and marble, while neutral colors are staging a comeback in demand across the board—that guide their offerings.
And for much of those in-stock options, Kzelian adds that Imperial is the only place in the state where they can be purchased. “There are specific products or colors that we’re the exclusive dealers of in Pennsylvania. Nobody else carries them or has them.”
Just a Stone’s Throw Away
Debuting a West Chester showroom earlier this year has helped Imperial Marble & Granite bring its dedicated customer service and exclusive products to even more Pennsylvania homeowners. by Madeleine Maccar
Since 2004, Imperial Marble & Granite has been working with clients from all over eastern Pennsylvania to design, fabricate and install uniquely stunning natural stone and quartz furnishings, from residential kitchens and bathrooms to retail establishments’ reception spaces and dining areas.
But owner Albert Kzelian noticed a worrisome decline in clients from Exton, Malvern, King of Prussia, West Chester and other areas for whom Imperial’s Essington location was just a little too far away.
So, just like with every job Imperial puts its name on, Kzelian came up with a solution that prioritizes his customers’ needs: establishing a showroom closer to them.
“I said, ‘OK, if you guys don’t want to come to us, we’ll come to you,’” he begins. “An opportunity came up at this location in West Chester and I could not resist. We built a 4,000-square-foot, beautiful showroom, and it’s right on West Chester Pike.”
The result was a wide-open, thoughtfully designed space. Open since April, that West Chester showroom is already a resoundingly well-received success.
One of the most striking features of the Imperial showroom is that there are no tiny samples trying to approximate the full extent of all the colors and natural beauty that exist in one piece of marble or granite: The entire slab is available for client scrutiny, which Kzelian
says is crucial in helping them fully assess a stone they’re considering for their home.
“The sample certainly doesn’t justify what the slab looks like,” he explains. “The slabs have so many variations that a sample that’s just six or 12 inches isn’t going to tell you about the entire piece because that piece has gold, gray, white, beige, all these different colors that a sample can’t show you. So when the customer sees the whole entire piece, they’re like, ‘Oh my God, this is beautiful!’ or ‘Wow, this is not what I was expecting, it’s too busy.’”
While the West Chester showroom gives clients a chance to get an up-close, hands-on look at all the pieces Imperial has in stock, one of the biggest advantages to them is the cost savings that comes with making a purchase directly with Imperial. But what really differentiates Imperial from the rest is the kind of dedicated, attentive client support that drove Kzelian to open up a showroom to better assist his customers in the first place.
“Customer service is No. 1, No. 2 is craftsmanship and No.3—which is the most important thing—is turnaround,” he says. “From template to install, it’s a 10-day turnaround.We have the technology and machinery to back us up. Everything is done by digital measurements and laser measurements, so that helps us make things more precise and accurate.”
But the showroom, Kzelian points out, “is not just for countertops.” It’s also where you can find an array of ceramic and marble tile, vanities, faucets and sinks, knobs, kitchen cabinetry, lighting and even sound systems. outsources appliances so “we can give everything to the customer looking for a complete kitchen.”
“We have a variety of different things,” Kzelian says. “A homeowner could come in and purchase pretty much everything for every room all at once.”
The Imperial team stays on top of current trends and client-demographic preferences— Kzelian notes that customers under 40 tend to gravitate to the manmade quartz but those 40 and older still prefer more natural stone like
quality, skilled and minimally intrusive work to clients that Kzelian believes will ensure that Imperial keeps growing so it can keep finding new ways to ensure all their clients’ needs are met.
“We started out in 2004 with six employees and now have 43,” says Kzelian. “Our second location is helping us to continue helping clients with a warehouse experience that has all the beautiful lights and design of a showroom.”
after installation. A client can start enjoying their kitchen straightaway.
Paint-grade finishes include two coats of sealer and a topcoat. Stain grade finishes are the same, except they start with the stain application.
Of course, while Sunny Cove Cabinetry will never sacrifice quality materials and craftsmanship, there are things that do change in cabinetry over the years, and Glick makes sure to stay on top of trends, too—without losing sight of the features that stand the test of time.
TRENDS AND MAINSTAYS
“Stain is coming back, especially with centerpieces,” Glick says.
Built to Last
WSunny Cove Cabinetry owner Aaron Glick for their new kitchen, it’s an investment in quality craftsmanship that is as beautiful as it is durable.
The Chester County woodworker started his Amish custom cabinet company in 2016 out of a desire to bring quality custom cabinets to the region, and the reputation he has built for himself over the past near-decade has proven that he is doing just that.
Quality cabinetry can anchor a kitchen and pull the whole space together, so having beautiful cabinets should be a nobrainer; however, there are still those people who opt for stock cabinets, sacrificing not only the beauty of custom work, but also the longevity.
“Anybody can put in cabinets that look good, but what about in five, 10 years?” Glick says. “I want to walk away from that kitchen and know it’s going to last for the homeowner.”
Glick even sees this mistake with brandnew homes, not just in kitchen remodels.
“I try to put myself in the homeowner’s shoes and picture what they’re going to see down the road,” Glick says. “Why would you get a custom home builder to build your house for you, and then … buy stock cabinets?”
by Kristen Dowd
Long-lasting quality is not the only guarantee when working with Sunny Cove Cabinetry. Glick also prides himself on best utilizing the available space, ensuring customers have plenty of functional cabinetry at their disposal.
ONLY THE BEST METHODS AND MATERIALS
Sunny Cove Cabinetry uses a personalized approach with all clients, ensuring they will end up with the perfect cabinets in their kitchen. The company also uses the best in materials which, paired with its precision to detail, guarantees a beautiful product that will last.
The process starts with Glick visiting a home to take measurements and speak with the homeowners to get a sense of what they’re envisioning. A design is then presented that can be adjusted according to the homeowners’ preferences, and then a final detailed design is done. Once the design is locked in, Glick and his team start creating each cabinet by hand.
When it comes to painting or staining cabinets, finishing processes use water-based finishes low in volatile organic compounds, making it a great choice for not only the environment, but also your nose. These finishes are highly durable and do not smell strong, meaning there are no overwhelming paint fumes for the first weeks
A centerpiece may be a kitchen island, he continues, and as far as stain colors, he’s seeing a wide range. Staining the solid wood pieces brings warmth and natural beauty to the overall design, which can add a nice balance to painted cabinets and appliances.
When it comes to those painted cabinets, bold, solid colors are in high demand, and Glick sees a lot of requests for greens and blues. White has long been a popular choice, however, and Glick still has many clients making this bright, crisp request.
“White would still be the biggest demand right now,” he says.
Glick’s years of experience have also earned him the ability to add a little extra in his kitchen work, such as always installing a sink mat in sink cabinets to ensure the wood isn’t damaged in the event of a dripping faucet.
“That’s my standard,” he says.
MOVING FORWARD
Sunny Cove Cabinetry works with both individual homeowners and large-scale builders, and Glick prides himself on approaching each customer with honesty and integrity, which has earned him a top reputation in the field. He is there to bring a client’s cabinetry vision to life, and also to help guide those clients who may not be totally certain in what they want.
Building strong relationships with clients is the best way to ensure satisfaction in the end product, and getting the ball rolling couldn’t be easier. Clients just need to give Glick a call.
“Reach out to me,” he says, “and I’ll come right out.”
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.
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 these experts all agree that your your sanctuary, and giving it a 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 thetic.
“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.
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 otherwise uninspiring room.
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.
Designers suggest you hang a new statement art or create a gallery wall with phoprints or even framed textiles. Or with 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 texthe walls via wallpaper. For a long time, 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-
feel of your home.
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
Refreshing your home is about finding joy in your space again. Whether it’s
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.
through rearranging furniture, adding pops of color or even just decluttering your belongings, even the smallest changes can have a huge im-
A commitment to customer satisfaction through creative solutions was a constant no matter the Dilworth’s representative and project phase.
“After the general layout was finished, Dilworth’s walked us through all of the details we had to decide on. Many were things that we would have never even thought about on our own. They had great advice for us, patiently explaining the pros and cons of each choice,” says Erin. “Redesigning the fireplace doesn’t sound like a big project, but we managed to turn it into one. We worked with Aaron [Stallone, CAD drafter] who designed this space using [computeraided design], and his attention to detail was absolutely amazing.”
Bespoke Beauty
The team at Dilworth’s Custom Design always aims to be the one-stop shop delivering painstakingly personalized home renovations and constant customer care every step of the way—even well after the project is done.
by Madeleine Maccar
For more than 30 years, the family-owned Dilworth’s Custom Design has been handcrafting impressive, thoughtfully personalized kitchens and bathrooms while consistently facilitating a smooth, highly communicative process from conception to completion.
Owner/CEO Dan Dilworth invited first-time clients Erin and Tom Schaible to discuss why they’re happy to have trusted Dilworth’s with a major renovation project encompassing their home’s entire ground floor. That included a laundry room expanded into the garage to create a mudroom, a completely redesigned fireplace, updating the powder room, all-new flooring and the biggest project of all: removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room and then redesigning the kitchen to fill that space.
The Schaibles turned to Dilworth’s based on a friend’s enthusiastic recommendation. While her own kitchen remodel stood as a testament to the company’s design and construction artistry, she also spoke highly of the process leading to such stunning results.
“She said that they worked with her every step of the way from design to finishing details, and we knew that was what we needed,” the husband and wife affirm.
The couple kept putting off their first-floor overhaul because it was so daunting in its scope that Erin “didn’t even know where to start.” And after she had invested an incredible amount of time and energy into ensuring previous smaller-scale remodels yielded the results they were looking for, the Schaibles wanted to hand over the reins to a fullservice provider while remaining actively involved in the project.
Dilworth’s proved to be the perfect team for the job almost immediately.
“They took an overwhelming project and helped break it down into manageable parts,” begins Erin. “Dave Dilworth [director of sales and design] started with a suggested layout for the kitchen that we loved and thought was the best use of the new space, and then the team worked with us to really personalize it for the way we live. We discussed every single cabinet and drawer in detail to make sure the layout was the best use of space for us. … We worked with Natalie [Moyer, sales and design associate] during this process, and she really listened to how we wanted our kitchen to function and then suggested ways to make it happen. Her ideas and experience were invaluable.”
Erin adds that Moyer “could not possibly have been more patient” as the design professional pored over multiple images Erin supplied to arrive at diligently customized options, right on down to, for example, coming up with “the perfect crown molding for our space by combining three different pieces of trim—she even had the shop put together a sample so I could visualize it in our space.”
“My biggest request in the kitchen was adding windows on either side of the stove to let in more natural light,” Tom adds. “There really wasn’t a lot of room for windows, but the team figured out how to make it happen.”
In addition to their feedback being heard at every stage, the Schaibles also appreciated the care with which Dilworth’s regarded their home: ”Before leaving each night, the team cleaned up everything. They vacuumed, swept, put away all of their tools, and even covered any holes in the subfloor so our cat couldn’t get in them.” It also helped that the team understood how the inconvenience of living around a construction site is softened with a clear timeline.
“Ryan [V., site manager] met with us every morning to discuss what they would be working on that day,” explains Tom. “He also gave us longer range projections for what they hoped to accomplish each week. While they were in the house, they were very respectful of the fact that we were still living there. They gave us plenty of advance notice for days where they needed to shut off the water or power.”
“Ryan and his team went out of their way to hook up our washer and dryer just about every night,” adds Erin.
From the beginning, the Schaibles understood that “during a project as large as ours, you expect that a few things will not go according to plan. What matters to us is how the team responds to these things, and Dilworth’s has a clear commitment to making them right!”
“Their commitment to their clients doesn’t end when the job is finished,” Tom confirms. “So far, Dilworth’s has only completed this one large project for us but based on our experience, we would not hesitate to hire them again.”
Visit DilworthsCustomDesign.com/ Phoenixville-White-Kitchen-Remodel to check out more project photos.
Dilworth’s Custom Design
Phoenixville, Pa.
(610) 917-9119
