35 years of transforming kitchens into the heart of the home page 22
INTHE KITCHEN
The latest remodeling trends and advice from the pros
Keeping comfortable in the colder months
Inspiring homeowners to create their outdoor oasis back cover
INTHE
advice from the pros
PUBLISHER
Edward P. McCartney
EDITOR
Peter Proko
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Matt Cosentino, Madeleine Maccar, Carly Murray
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Chelsea Vacourt
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
Nicole Corabi, Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, 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
HOUSE & HOME
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MOST 13-YEAR-OLD BOYS HAVE PLENTY OF DISTRACTIONS TO KEEP THEM OCCUPIED OTHER THAN THINKING ABOUT THEIR FUTURE CAREERS. While Sam King readily admits that he was not above some of those trappings, at the same time he also displayed a dogged work ethic and a passion for construction, even at a young age.
In fact, by his early teens he was already employed by a shop near his Pennsylvania home as a cupola builder. At 16, he joined a general contracting firm led by local builder Norman Graham and took his skills up another notch. Before long, he knew he had found the field that was right for him.
“My dad was a carpenter and he worked for Graham’s, and I just had a big interest in it from when I was young,” King says. “I’m thankful for the upbringing that I had, for sure.”
King mentored under Graham for 11 years before deciding to branch out on his own. In 1999, he founded Beechdale Builders, a company that today specializes in constructing brand-new custom homes, creating additions for existing houses and renovating kitchens, bathrooms and basements.
His goal from the beginning was to utilize the knowledge and skills he had accumulated in his previous stops, while giving customers the stress-free experience they deserve when making a substantial investment and undergoing a major project in their homes.
“We try to be straightforward and honest with everybody,” King says. “We go the extra mile to help them achieve their look and give them what they want.”
That is especially true when it comes to custom homes, which are like a blank canvas for King and his team, including his designer/architect. Beechdale Builders works in a wide variety of styles and can usually complete a new house within six to eight
A True Calling
by Matt Cosentino
months, or a little longer for larger homes. King understands the anxiety that customers are feeling during the process, but he is in constant communication and keeps them up to date on the progress.
“If they have the land, we can help them get the house that they want,” he says. “We will help make their dream come true, whatever they’re interested in. I recently estimated a project for $200,000, which is a small rancher, but we’re also working on a $1.5 million house right now as well. I try not to count anyone out.”
When it comes to additions, Beechdale Builders time and again rises to the challenge of providing a space that is functional, aesthetically pleasing and looks like a natural extension of the home.
“When you have someone who loves their location and doesn’t want to move, they’d rather spend some money and make the house more like they want it instead of going out and buying a new home,” King says. “We
have all of the resources they need to do the planning and get started. They might just be looking for more living space, or a new master bedroom and suite area is also quite popular at the moment.”
Remodels make up a large portion of Beechdale’s business, with kitchens and bathrooms being the primary rooms in need of a makeover. In kitchens, it’s common to remove a wall and open up the space, and Beechdale’s designers and crews can handle everything from cabinetry and countertops to flooring and appliances.
“You can really upgrade a house with a kitchen renovation,” King says. “Even though you’re going to spend $80,000 to $120,000, it also adds to the value of the house.”
With Beechdale offering all of those services and having a well-earned reputation for finishing projects on time and on budget, it’s no surprise that the company is busy throughout the year. King is happy to have crews he can depend on—several employees have been with him for more than 20 years— including project manager Matt Graham, who oversees each job with a fine attention to detail. The grandson of Norman Graham, he already had a strong relationship with King and has been a welcome addition to the team since joining in 2020.
With that support behind him and grateful customers who appreciate his work, it’s no wonder that King is proud of what he has built at Beechdale and the career he first embraced back in his teenage years.
“I love it now more than I ever did,” he says. “It really helped bringing Matt on, because that has allowed me to focus on growing the business. Before, it would wear me out trying to line up new jobs while keeping the ones we already had running smoothly. Now, I can focus on the new jobs and Matt oversees the ongoing projects. That makes it enjoyable.”
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.
Trusted
to help transform your home EXPERTS
IBY STAFF
n the world of home improvement, kitchens and baths continue to reign supreme. Survey after survey shows that these spaces can add the most value in a home. Homeowners who are ready to make the investment in upgrading their kitchen or bath can simply look on the following pages to find qualified professionals in various specialties from marble and granite and cabinetry to remodelers and designers. With the help of this House & Home Directory, we hope the design of your dreams can soon become a reality.
Appliances
Hawkins & Sons Appliances (302) 998-5587
HawkinsAndSons.com
K & A Appliance, Inc (717) 392-3287
KAAppliance.com
Kieffer’s Appliances (215) 699-3522
Kieffers.com
Bar & Kitchen Stools
Royal Billiard & Recreation, Inc. (215) 997-7777
RoyalBilliard.com
Builders/Contractors/ Remodelers
A.W. Viohl Home Remodeling (302) 375-6166
ViohlContracting.com
Beechdale Builders (717) 278-3683
BeechdaleBuildersLLC.com
Gehman Design Remodeling (215) 513-0300
GehmanRemodeling.com
Mayse Painting & Contracting (302) 388-1747
MPCPaints.com
Pencroft Ridge Construction (717) 786-4124
PencroftRidgeConstruction.com
Trailway Construction (610) 273-2328
TrailwayConstruction.com
Waterdog Construction (215) 317-4261
WaterdogConstruction.com
Cabinet Refacing/Refinishing Capital Kitchen Refacing, LLC (267) 907-3591
CapitalKitchenRefacing.com
Kitchen Tune-Up (610) 364-5558
KitchenTuneUp.com
Let’s Face It - A Division of HomeTech Renovations, Inc. (215) 343-2600 (Bucks/Mont) (610) 696-3600
(Del/Chester/MainLine) LFIKitchens.com
Cabinetry
Dilworth’s Custom Design (610) 917-9119
DilworthsCustomDesign.com
Kitchen Tune-Up (610) 364-5558
KitchenTuneUp.com
Main Line Kitchen Design (610) 510-2056
MainLineKitchenDesign.com
Shelf Genie (609) 595-4342
ShelfGenie.com
Sunny Cove Cabinetry (717) 500-4540
SunnyCoveCabinetry.com
The Cabinet Shop (609) 463-0400
CabinetShopNJ.com
Carpet/Hardwood/Vinyl/Etc. Hampstead Floor Company (267) 396-6107
Timeless Stone Fabrication, Inc. is a family-owned and -operated full service marble, granite and quartz fabricator offering our services throughout the entire tri-state area. Experienced in both residential and commercial custom fabrication, they work with homeowners, contractors, builders, designers and landscapers. With an on-site slab yard that boasts over 100 colors and a showroom full of stone products and tiles, Timeless Stone prides itself with being a onestop shop for your convenience. (215) 249-1555
Dan Dilworth reflects on how Dilworth’s Custom Design earned a stellar reputation as it grew from a solo effort to a well-respected contractor employing a variety of individuals dedicated to incredible client experiences and results.
by Madeleine Maccar
When Dan Dilworth’s love of woodworking first nudged him toward a career in cabinetry and had him renting out his father’s garage as a workspace, he never imagined he’d stumbled upon what would become Dilworth’s Custom Design.
As the one-stop shop for kitchens, bathrooms and more celebrates its 35th year, its owner and CEO is grateful for the journey so far.
“I grew up in a large family with eight boys and a girl, and my father was a pastor at a very small church,” Dilworth recalls. “As a kid, I didn’t realize that you can actually hire contractors to do things because we just did it all. Dad taught us a lot—especially a very strong work ethic that I am so grateful for—and I real-
ized pretty early on that I loved woodworking. In high school, I figured out that I wanted to be a cabinetmaker … and was fortunate enough to have a cabinetmaker next door willing to hire me to work and learn for a few years.”
Dilworth then replied to a want ad for custom-built bookshelves, which led to a life-changing moment of clarity: “It’s time to start a business.”
From there, the nascent Dilworth’s Custom Design began its upward trajectory, “and kept on growing and growing.” Today, with almost 40 employees comprising a team that designs, builds and installs more than 80 interior projects a year, the company occupies an office, showroom and cabinet shop in Phoenixville. And while Dilworth’s commitment to custom crafts-
manship and well-nurtured relationships remained the same, the company has evolved over the years—and so have its capabilities, thanks to the collective team’s drive to learn as much as they can.
“I named it ‘Dilworth’s Custom Design’ because I didn’t want to pigeonhole myself,” he begins. “I like building, so when I was starting out, I was a little desperate, a little hungry and a lot curious. I wasn’t afraid to tackle anything: I was doing all kinds of crazy stuff, from kitchen cabinets to concrete work, from custom furniture to office work surfaces. I had to learn how to do some plumbing because every kitchen has a sink, and electrical to hook up the appliances.”
He’s quick to credit a hard-working, exhaustively trained team for Dilworth’s ongoing success. Whether it’s his own brothers Dave and Ben joining him early in the company’s formation and remaining mainstays who quickly took ownership of their roles, or the office staff and handson craftspeople dedicated to both
upholding and continually furthering the company’s reputation, Dilworth eagerly sings the praises of an “awesome team” contributing to the company’s longevity.
And it’s not just because they bring electric, plumbing and all the other installation skills that elevate Dilworth’s in-house, turnkey services.
“The teams that I have are amazing, and they want to learn,” he starts. “The office team here is very creative, very passionate about what they do helping bring the clients dreams to reality … Not everyone came with experience in the field, whether it was in the office, the road team or in the shop, so we really take an ‘If you teach a man to fish, he’ll eat for a lifetime’ kind of approach here.”
He continues: “You can get your kitchen and bath done by anybody but when you can make it an amazing experience, that’s truly what it’s all about. It’s not just the things we do but it’s how we treat people and how we talk to them, and we try to have fun on the way, too: We want our clients to trust the process and we want them to enjoy it.”
Those “clients who have become friends” are among Dilworth’s most vocal champions. A list comprising hundreds of them is provided at sales presentations so potential clients can hear directly from others about how happy they are with their results.
“Referrals are huge for us—most of our new clients are referred by our previous clients because they really do get excited to talk about their experience with us, and they’re proud of what we’ve put in their home,” Dilworth says. “Some clients invite people into their home. And other clients have mentioned Dilworth’s Custom Design in the listings when selling the home we renovated and then call us again when they settled on a new home.”
Dilworth has countless stories about all the clients who have referred his company to their loved ones, returned again and again for an array of renovation and design projects, and even admitted that they miss the affable company of on-site craftspeople once their job is over.
“I’ve heard so many clients at the end of the job say, ‘Hey, I’m glad the work is done but I kind of miss having the guys around every day, and so do the dog and the kids,’” he affirms. “It’s cool how these guys become part of the family after being there for a few weeks because they are just really nice guys.”
As he looks ahead, Dilworth has found that sharing everything he’s learned with the next generation is just as rewarding as a job well done.
“I love being able to bring in someone with minimal to no experience and teach
them a trade that turns into their career,” he says. “We have connected with high school Vo-techs and trade schools to hire the best from their classes to further expand our business, and through these connections we get to develop young men and women into really great people in their communities.”
Dilworth freely admits that he’s not completely sure what the future holds, but his faith in God and confidence in his team are why he’s sure that whatever comes next will be something great.
“One of my main focuses is making this sustainable and profitable for the next generation so we can keep growing,” he says. “I’m excited about the future and am curious about what’s next. I’ve been blessed and, Lord willing, I plan to keep impacting more employees and more clients.”
KITCHENRevitalization
With holiday hosting opportunities around the corner, people are opting for
fresh, new ideas.
When picturing a kitchen, it’s typical to think of warmth—whether in terms of family memories made gathering around the table, the heat that radiates from cooking or the homey aesthetic often found in it. In the recent past, popular kitchen designs have consisted of a sleek, minimalist theme best suited for a modern flair. This year, the innovative technology is now incorporated among personalized kitchens with color, character and comfortability.
“In 2024, color made a big comeback. Kitchens moved away from the all-white standard, embracing warmer tones, richer textures and personality-driven design choices. Homeowners began leaning into spaces that felt lived-in and inviting, with layers of color and material adding depth to the overall look,” says Todd Finkenstadt, co-owner of Kitchen Tune-Up Glen Rock. “Now in 2025, this movement has expanded further. One of the biggest shifts has been the surge in natural
wood-grain cabinetry, with white oak leading the way. The warmth and organic feel of oak brings character to the kitchen, balancing modern clean lines with a timeless, natural element.”
He adds that there is a rising demand for built-in dining nooks, which create a cozy, intimate atmosphere and expanded storage. There has been a resurgence of color, unique designs, and wood and quartz materials reminiscent of the kitchens that were trending decades ago. The difference, however, is that there are more customization options today than ever before.
“A few years ago, everyone wanted the bright white kitchen—walls, cabinets, countertops, everything. Now, there’s more balance. Clients want a white or neutral backdrop, but they’re layering in wood textures, stone
By Carly Murray
surfaces with character and color on the lower cabinets or island. It’s a shift from ‘all one look’ to a mix that feels more natural and lived-in,” affirms Takia Livingston, owner of Kitchen Tune-Up Bloomfield.
The shift from clean, contemporary kitchens to creative and customized kitchens is not necessarily one extreme or the other. Homeowners often find a combination of the two, which is perfectly aligned with the idea of making the space individualized.
“Just a few years ago, all-white and minimalist kitchens dominated. Today’s homeowners want more warmth and individuality. Instead of sterile spaces, kitchens are becoming highly personal, layered and textured,” says Jeff Toren, owner of Kitchen Tune-Up Main Line. “Functionality is also driving design— people want more than just a beautiful space;
KITCHENRevitalization
they want storage solutions, flexible layouts and technology that makes everyday life easier.”
If sprucing up a neutral kitchen, experiment with accent materials, colors and pieces to add something new without an overwhelming change.
“Warmer tones and stains are back in [for] arches, doorways and accent pieces: Warmer whites paired with medium-warm stains on either oak or maple, as opposed to stark white; recessed panels for clean lines; varying shades of green/earth tones,” adds Kari Taverna, senior kitchen and bath design consultant at Weiler’s Kitchen and Bath Design Center. “We’re happily out of the gray era, [it’s] been on the downslope to open the door for warmth and color.”
Consistently popular shaker cabinets are an excellent way to start, because they are an essential piece but not the centerpiece of a kitchen.
“For many years, the vast majority of our cabinet sales were white and off-white recessed panel doors styles like a shakerdoor style. Recently, more unusual painted colors like greens and stained finishes have grown in popularity. Some past door styles and finishes like raised-panel door styles and glazed finishes have just started to sell again after 20 years,” says Paul McAlary, president of Main Line Kitchen Design. “There are much more style, color and wood variations than in years past, which is refreshing.”
Whether adding a pop of color among neutrals or all-encompassing color, playing with shaker cabinet aesthetics harmoniously blends modern and classic design.
“Two-tone cabinets—light uppers paired with a deeper base color—are especially popular because they add interest without overwhelming the space. We’re also seeing a lot of requests for functional upgrades, like
pull-out storage, organizers and soft-close hardware. It’s not just about the look anymore—it’s about creating a kitchen that works harder for the family using it every day,” says Livingston.
“Cabinet designs are moving toward two-tone looks and textured finishes, such as fluted or reeded doors, that add subtle character. To complete the look, mixedmetal hardware—like brass with matte black—along with oversized pendant lighting bring a cohesive, modern feel,” adds Toren.
Finkenstadt explains that blues, greens and wood tones have been popular choices for cabinet colors. Color choices can pair with shapes and lines to accentuate and to mimic the desired era of design trends. Sharp lines, simplicity and open space are common attributes of modern designs that work well with any color choice.
“Rich, inviting finishes bring character and comfort to the kitchen. While the classic shaker door continues to be our most popular style, the slim shaker is quickly gaining attention,” continues Finkenstadt. “The slim shaker is a modern twist on the traditional design, featuring slimmer rails and stiles on the border. It’s the perfect middle ground for homeowners torn between the clean simplicity of a flat panel and the timeless appeal of a shaker door. With its subtle detailing, it delivers a fresh, modern look without losing the warmth and versatility people love about shaker cabinetry.
Considering both look and functionality simultaneously is important, especially when it comes to a kitchen. When it comes to choices in flooring, functionality is a bit more important because of the messiness that is characteristic of kitchens. Whether a floor is subject to damage from kids, pets, water or food, luxury vinyl plank remains a strong choice for durability and longevity.
“Luxury vinyl planks are somewhat indestructible. I love a good natural hardwood, but it may not be the best fit for all areas, such as when you have your living room flooring continue right into the kitchen,” explains Rich Lauletta, owner of Haddon Flooring. “I have luxury vinyl in my house, and my three crazy kids put it to the test for sure. It still looks great.”
Luxury vinyl planks are available in a variety of styles and colors, so it’s easy to find one that fits well with a kitchen design now that the utility is covered. Flooring sets the stage, but it is not a focal point like an island or a dining table. Trends in colors have certainly arrived and passed when it comes to flooring, but a traditional color and style best complements the rest of the room.
“Light colors have been trending for a while now, but we’re starting to see some more medium shades more frequently. In general I think a great ‘earth tone’ does not go out of style. I never personally loved the gray trend a few years back, [it] didn’t seem natural, and [was] a little too dull,” says Lauletta.
After all, with innovation taking over every aspect of everyday life as well as home design, it’s beneficial to keep some familiar ground. Smart home automation can seem daunting, but it is utilized best in a kitchen— which offers plenty of opportunities for technology integration. This aspect has also been responsible for the shift toward minimalism.
“You walked into an older home years ago, and you saw a whole bank of switches—maybe five were dimmers that are placed for each zone of lighting,” says David Cerami owner of HomeTech Renovations. “The dimmers now could be basically located in a basement closet if you wish, and they are communicated through either a handheld device or a wall-mounted pod that would pop out of a device somewhere, or your phone. So, you can actually turn lights on and off, and adjust them accordingly from your phone or from a central pad.”
He further explains that in a kitchen, different zones of lighting can consist of decorative, above the island, cabinet interior lighting, cove lighting, above the table—and anywhere else that could be integral to the ongoings of a kitchen. Experimenting with the brightness of each section at different times of day can transform the atmosphere.
“Lighting is so important. We do a lot of under-cabinet, in-cabinet lighting, and we’re doing pop-up outlets in the countertops, which is a cool idea, rather than having outlets on the side wall,” says Vic Fiore, president of Magnolia Home Remodeling Group. “Plumbing fixtures have gotten more and
KITCHENRevitalization
more advanced, including touchless, where they come on and off with the wave of a hand.”
Efficiency and ease are the epitome of luxury living, and now menial tasks are replaced with voice-activation and AI assistance. Appliances have undergone the most impactful AI takeover, with devices and mechanisms once unfathomable.
“We find a lot of appliances are smart appliances. Some of these appliances could even monitor contents within a refrigerator,” says Cerami. “A lot of the appliances [we see] have automation built into them, whether they’re temperature probes for baking or cooking, or recipes that are pre-programmed into cooking equipment that will complete the cooking cycle in accordance with that recipe.”
Heightened technology is also a major tool in the planning process, and something that home renovation experts utilize to better give clients the full picture.
“The technology we use to design these spaces has gotten better and better to the point where people can really visualize what the space would look like,” says Fiore.
Planning can be both exciting and tumultuous, but an early start and the help of a professional will go a long way in obtaining a homeowner’s dream kitchen. Any vision can become a reality with the right tools and finances, but there are alternatives available that homeowners might not have known existed.
“People should start working on a kitchen renovation as early as possible. You can always hold off starting the actual renovation as long as you like,” says McAlary. “Once we show them options that they hadn’t considered, it takes much longer for them to make decisions. Almost no one ends up selecting the design that they planned on before working with a good experienced kitchen designer.”
A professional kitchen de-
signer will incorporate a client’s taste with practicality, while seamlessly coordinating all of the pieces together. They can also help problem-solve and determine what a plan is missing.
“Everyone’s different,” says Weiler’s designer Andi Saracco. “Getting a hold of what they really like and dislike about their current space is the best place to start, we want to incorporate what they do like but there might be a dysfunctional corner we have to figure out how to make more practical.”
A kitchen is the heart of the home, and it’s best to exhibit creativity and the personalities within it. Now is the perfect time to assess hosting and entertaining expectations and desires, to begin planning for the kitchen of your dreams in time for next year’s holiday season.
Bergen County, N.J.: (201) 614-1774 Bloomfield, N.J.: (973) 949-0454
Main Line, Pa.: (484) 435-7430
KitchenTuneUp.com
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group Union, N.J. (855) 624-6655
MagnoliaHomeRemodeling.com
Main Line Kitchen Design Bala Cynwyd, Pa. (610) 500-4071
MainLineKitchenDesign.com
Weiler’s Kitchen and Bath Design Center Feasterville, Pa. (215) 357-9300
WeilersKitchens.com
by Liz Hunter SHOWCASE
About-Face
With modern technology and decades of experience, Let’s Face It gives your kitchen a brand-new look without the hassle of a remodel. Let’s Face It (A HomeTech Company)
After many years of living in the same home, it becomes easier to spot the areas where we’d like to have a fresh look. The furniture could be updated now that the kids aren’t climbing all over it, the carpet could be pulled up in favor of hardwood and especially in the kitchen, where we spend so much of our time, the cabinets have seen better days.
However, the prospect of a full kitchen remodel often causes people to delay that update. Between the permitting, the disruption of your family’s daily life and the length of time, it’s not very convenient—not to mention the cost.
Cabinet refacing is a cleaner and more organized approach to remodeling—an alternative that more homeowners are embracing. Let’s Face It, established in 1984, is the oldest cabinet refacing company in Southeastern Pennsylvania and has continually developed modern, state-ofthe-art technology and design to reface and enhance an outdated kitchen for 60 percent less than a full remodel, and often in as little as five days. Locally owned and operated by David Cerami, CKBR, Let’s Face It (LFI) has worked with thousands of homeowners and is nationally recognized as a pioneer in the cabinet refacing industry.
“We can do design changes in the room that other companies can’t. LFI frequently removes outdated built-in desks and replaces them with base cabinets for additional storage and counter space. Another great option is using that area for a beverage station with a built-in wine fridge. We can create a builtin frame around the refrigerator for a custom look. Other modifications include changing base cabinets with doors to sturdy pot drawers, putting microwaves in islands and installing matching floating shelves,” Sol-
“We can do design changes in the room that other companies can’t.”—Beth Soldswisch, LFI Senior Designer
matching veneers and panels and the company’s environmentally friendly process uses low-odor, non-toxic, EPA-regulated waterbased adhesives.
Clients can choose any style door in an almost unlimited range of materials. Shaker, modern and minimalist or traditional are all options. Stained genuine woods like walnut are gaining in popularity. LFI also offers durable painted products in a wide range of colors with custom colors also being available.
dswisch says.
LFI is not limited to cabinets and many homeowners prefer the simplicity of its onestop shop offerings. Clients may choose to add a new countertop as well, such as quartz or granite, and both products are now offered with lifetime sealers, in addition to tile and glass backsplashes with high-performance, factory-sealed grouts.
“Our projects are professionally designed, engineered and installed by our own highly skilled employees,” says LFI Senior Designer Beth Soldswisch.
A consultation with homeowners will include the clients’ ideas being heard, as well as the designer presenting options that will bring those ideas to life. “We want to look at the rooms that are adjacent to the kitchen, especially if it’s an open concept floor plan, and suggest something complementary so the space will flow,” Soldswisch says.
Using your existing cabinet framework (if structurally sound,) LFI replaces the doors and drawer fronts with designer-quality products. LFI covers the cabinet boxes with
“The industry is heading toward products that are more durable, longer-lasting and easy to clean, especially for homes with children,” Soldswisch continues. For this look, LFI offers the highly popular 3DL finish, which is chip resistant and cleans with soap and water. “3DL finish is considered identical to a painted design and is also offered in a contemporary or primitive wood grain, available in classic Shaker, raised panel traditional and the European modern total-flat panel,” she says.
LFI can take the cabinets a step further than others in this industry thanks to its fullservice local wood shop. Homeowners can add custom cabinets, unique islands and tall pantries to their kitchen at a reasonable price.
LFI also has licensed mechanical contractors, electricians and plumbers on staff. “Nearly everyone gets our LED under-wall cabinet strip lighting which is longer-lasting and 80 percent less costly to use than incandescent lighting,” notes Soldswisch.
On completion, projects are certified with a lifetime cabinet refacing warranty. “Imagine, today, being able to hire a remodeling professional and at the end of the project you are given a lifetime warranty on both the labor and materials. This is not offered by any other company,” Soldswisch says.
LFI maintains a stellar reputation in the industry, with a 97.8 percent Guild Quality performance rating—one of the highest grades in the industry—and has been recognized with several Best of House & Home awards.
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.
Your Contractor for Life
by Madeleine Maccar
Stonebridge Renovations has been bringing clients’ dream kitchens, bathrooms and basements to life since 2013, but the team’s experience extends far beyond that. It’s certainly evolved over that time, too, as owners Joe Magolon and Roman Hale tirelessly tap into their own decades of practical wisdom, applied knowledge and industry expertise.
They’ve also been diligently assembling a team as rock-solid as Stonebridge’s reputation.
“We have a really great team right now, and it took Roman and myself some time to build a team that’s this strong, that gets along this well, that looks out for each other, that works this hard,” Magolon affirms. “The communication amongst themselves is great—but with our customers, it’s awesome. Everything’s going really well with meeting timelines, customer satisfaction and striving for the highest quality.”
The next chapter of meeting clients’ everevolving needs begins with the launch of Stonebridge Kitchen and Baths and a brand-new showroom coming to the company’s Malvern headquarters in a 200-year-old building. That showroom will give customers an up-close look at the variety of materials, cabinets, flooring, tile options, decorative plumbing fixtures and more “to inspire and help people visualize what’s possible in their own homes.”
Work on the showroom began earlier this summer right at Stonebridge’s main base, where company operations have continued upstairs while the brand-new, one-stop-shop showroom sprawls across 5,000 square feet on the ground level. Magolon observes that “we’re trying to keep the historical features everywhere we can” to retain that character and charm; behind the scenes, the team is also zeroing in on the thoroughly modern appointments and selections the showroom will offer.
an early 2026 debut, Magolon is already excited for the day Stonebridge can throw open those doors and invite the community in.
“I can’t wait for everyone to see the showroom,” he says. “They’ll be able to come to one spot so they’re not shopping all over.”
As Stonebridge has evolved with the times, one thing has remained the same: its remodeling specialists’ ability to tackle any project from a variety of perspectives. It’s a bigpicture perspective that starts with Magolon and Hale themselves.
“We’ve always stayed focused on what we know: I’ve always been concentrated on the customer service and providing a quality price, where Roman has always been focused on the build and providing a quality product—he’s been doing renovations for 30-plus years and has a really great creative mind with design and layout, and knows how everything should function,” Magolon explains.
Knowing what today’s clients want also helps Stonebridge deliver dazzling results, whether it’s with luxurious bathroom flourishes, open-concept kitchens or basements that become all-ages rec rooms.
begins. “With bathrooms, they’re more spainspired with freestanding tubs, a lot of rain showers, they’re using a lot of natural materials and organic textures. As far as basement designs go, our clients are including home theaters, wet bars, fitness areas, wine cellars, infrared saunas, and even kid zones with rock-climbing walls and monkey bars.”
Making all those dreams a reality while thoughtfully assessing the reality of a property, timeline and costs are where Stonebridge’s capabilities and client commitment shine.
“We listen carefully so we understand their style and learn how they want their space to feel and function,” says Magolon. “We then combine our creativity, craftsmanship and experience to make the vision into a reality. With our years of experience, we know what works best for kitchens, bathrooms and basements: We’ll suggest layouts, materials and finishes that bring out the beauty in their space. Every client has different priorities, so we help them decide where to invest and where to save by offering options that deliver the look they love without really stretching their budget.”
The care and consideration Stonebridge gives every client has, in turn, meant a warm reception by the communities and families trusting its team with their homes.
“We want to be your contractor for life,” Magolon notes. “Word of mouth is one of the strongest compliments we can get: It means [the client is] putting their own reputation on the line for us because they believe in the quality of work that we do.”
And while the showroom is scheduled for
“A lot of our clients these days are looking to open up their kitchens, looking to bring in natural light, they want a lot of open shelving and a lot of warm wood tones,” Magolon
What are the advantages of wood-burning inserts and wood-burning stoves?
Feeling the Heat
now is the time to make sure your heating systems are operating optimally.
by PETER PROKO
With fall’s arrival and Old Man Winter not far behind, now is the perfect time for homeowners to start focusing on how they heat their home. From furnaces to fireplaces, having your heating sources inspected and serviced ahead of the frigid temperatures can go a long way to ensuring the utmost comfort while also keeping energy costs down.
To get a better understanding of how to best prepare for the upcoming change in seasons, House & Home spoke with some experts in the field to get their professional guidance to make sure no one is left out in the cold.
As the temperatures being to cool outside, what should homeowners be thinking about in terms of having their heating unit inspected and/or serviced so they aren’t dealing with issues in the dead of winter?
Every homeowner, just prior to at the beginning of fall, you should have your unit inspected or at least serviced to include the following:
• Checking the thermostat operation
• Checking that the furnace is clean
• Checking that the filer and fan motor are clean
That is all that needs to be done, there is nothing extravagant about it.
—Wayne Cangialosi, Wayne Refrigeration Air Conditioning & Heating
Signing up for a preventative maintenance plan will make sure their system is in optimal performance for efficiency this winter. Keeping systems maintained will save them money in the long run.
—Ann Carolyn Bush, R&D Heating and Cooling
What’s the best way to address cold air pouring through a fireplace?
The most common cause of what we call ‘cold hearth syndrome’ is the inherent inefficiency of traditional open wood or gas fireplaces. Think about it: your chimney is essentially a large hole in your home. Since cold air is heavier, it naturally sinks into your chimney and spills into your living room. Making matters worse, appliances like kitchen and bathroom fans, as well as HVAC systems, draw in outside air, and your chimney becomes a prime source.
Your first instinct might be to close the damper or install fireplace doors. Unfortunately, in most modern homes, that’s not enough to stop the draft. The most effective solution is to install a sealed gas or wood insert. This allows us to seal the chimney top, damper area and fireplace opening, creating an incredibly efficient, airtight fireplace system.
—David Rettinger Jr., Rettinger Fireplace Systems
You can cut your home heating costs by greater than 50% with a wood-burning insert or wood-burning stove. A lot of our customers will heat their entire home and just use fossil fuels as a supplementary heat source.
A traditional masonry fireplace is still very popular and people enjoy them, but open burning fireplaces do not generate heat the way a wood-burning insert or a wood-burning stove does. If you’re looking for something that takes the chill off and gives you really calming effects, you would want to have a traditional masonry fireplace. But if you’re looking to generate heat and save on home heating costs, you’ll probably want a wood-burning insert or a freestanding wood-burning stove.
—Leon Ochal, Chimney Scientists
What are some of the more popular requests from customers these days?
Customers are looking for rebates from their utility company if applicable, to help save money on electric and/or propane. They also want quietness and, of course, the best option cost-wise to fit their budget. … Comparing apples to apples, maybe the company they are working with is higher, but be sure to look at company profiles, reviews and the types of services they offer after the installation. —Ann Carolyn Bush
Is there an optimal thermostat setting for the winter months?
It’s really dependent on your own comfort level. What I tell people normally is that furnaces are designed to reach 72 degrees from whatever the outside temperature is. So if its 0 degrees, the furnace should reach 72 degrees in a certain amount of time. If it doesn’t reach 72 degrees, then either it’s way too cold out, or the furnace isn’t operating with peak efficiency. But that is also dependent on the insulation in your walls as well as the window insulation in the house. Because an older house with newspaper in the walls for insulation is not going to maintain that heat all the time.
I tell my customers that if they’re not home during the day in the wintertime, set your thermostat at 62-65 degrees. That will keep your pipes from freezing and it won’t cost you that much to heat the house during the day. Then, when you get home, you can raise the temperature up to your comfort level. It’s a lot easier to
maintain and reach that temperature when it’s already halfway there then having it
—Wayne Cangialosi
What are some of the most common concerns you encounter with chimneys?
A lot of people don’t even realize they have a chimney for their heating system. A huge portion of our business is preparing chimneys for your heater. So I would say for your average homeowner, just being aware that they have a chimney for their heater is good to know. And then, if they have never had that looked at, it’s maybe time to hire a certified chimney professional to do a camera inspection.
If you live in a house that was built before 1980, there’s like a 98% chance that you have a chimney for your heating system. And most people are not aware of that. So it’s best to have someone look at it before it collapses on itself and carbon monoxide backs into the basement.
—Leon Ochal
How can you eliminate odor emitting from a gas fireplace?
If you have a gas fireplace emitting unpleasant odors, it’s likely a vent-free model. These units burn room air and exhaust emissions directly back into the room, much like a gas stove. This not only leads to unpleasant smells, but also introduces moisture, which can be particularly troublesome for people with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.
Replacing a vent-free unit with a sealed gas fireplace creates a significantly more comfortable environment. These systems provide radiant heat while venting emissions outside the home. The result is increased room temperature without compromising indoor air quality. Many models also include remote controls and thermostatic or high/low settings for maximum comfort and control.
