Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, Frank Liantonio, Darren Slaughter, Lori Vorgang, Amy B. Weiss
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Karmal Pritchett
DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
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EXECUTIVE PARTNERS
Gerry Haggerty, Edward P. McCartney
HOUSE & HOME
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ask the expert R
by Chelsea Valcourt
HomeTech Renovations
EMODELING CAN TAKE YOUR HOME TO THE NEXT LEVEL, MAKING OLD, OUTDATED SPACES FEEL LIKE A BRAND-NEW HOME. While remodels are more cost-effective than relocating, these projects can easily exceed their original budget and schedule unless care is taken to ensure you get the desired results without breaking the bank. Consulting with an experienced, accredited—NKBA, NARI, CKBR or ASID—professional can reassure homeowners their project is in good hands.
House & Home spoke to HomeTech Renovations’ CKBR-accredited president David Cerami to emphasize the importance of hiring qualified professionals whose experience allows them to create your dream vision within the reality of your budget.
David Cerami, Owner
HOW CAN HOMEOWNERS SAVE TIME AND MONEY WITH EXPERIENCED, ACCREDITED PROFESSIONALS?
They’ll have the experience to understand a lot of the nuances of a design expansion. Homeowners often want some changes within the existing design—remove a wall or expand the footprint into an adjacent room— which would involve some form of remodeling. An expert understands what needs to be done and some of the cost benefits and projections associated with a project like that. I find that a professional can help customers hone their
budgets a bit more by explaining the cause and effect of some of the things they’ve considered before we get into the design of a project.
For example, I had a client that I just finished the design for. He wanted to remove a wall but had a chimney there allowing his furnace to heat the entire home. He thought he was locked into leaving this monolith in the middle of the footprint; I suggested some alternatives that would allow us to claim that space and really expand this kitchen tremendously.
Because of my knowledge, I offered him some cost-effective ideas to remedy that issue. There’s always something needing to be addressed: A true professional that has been around would certainly know the issues associated with a project’s demolition and rebuild aspects.
any professional is for a customer to realize what they can afford and potentially want to invest in. Most homeowners we meet don’t think about kitchens and baths in terms of a process: They think, “I’ll just call this contractor and get one estimate.” That’s hard because how do we walk into a home and prepare one estimate on a space requiring pre-existing conditions, design, demolition, products, product integration and selection of various elements? There’s a lot to consider.
Share with that professional a comfortable budget you’re considering. That way, they can walk in and if the budget is not in line with the breadth and scope of what you’re looking to do, they can say, “That budget could get you X, but would not be sufficient to get you your ultimate vision. Here are your other options.” It saves time for both the homeowner and professional.
HOW WOULD YOU ADVISE A HOMEOWNER UNDERTAKING THEIR FIRST REMODEL OR REDESIGN?
Work with an accredited, experienced design-build company. Design companies are quite different from design-build: I’ve worked with very talented designers, but there’s value-based engineering that could have been incorporated by a design-build team in some of these designs.
The second thing that’s very helpful for
WHAT ARE SOME POTENTIAL
“SWAPS” FOR HOMEOWNERS ON
A BUDGET?
If they’re not looking to radically change the footprint of the kitchen, they might consider cabinet refacing or restoration. Cabinet refacing spruces up the space with new cabinet doors and soft-close hinges to match other design and material details without replacing the cabinets altogether. They might also consider standard plumbing fixtures, sticking with existing flooring or luxury vinyl as opposed to tile or stone, switching to energy-efficient LED lighting or saving upgrades on standard-sized appliances for later. As for the bathroom, one-piece shower pans and surround panels, eliminating large builder-grade whirlpool tubs, and considering standard-sized vanities incorporating specific countertops and integral sinks that retrofit with the vanity are wonderful style options that aren’t likely to break the bank.
A Matter of Trust
When you need work done on your home—expected or not—you want to know that you can trust the contractor you’ve hired to get the job done well. After all, you’re not an expert on what’s involved in services like roofing, siding or windows, and you don’t want to get taken advantage of as a result. Because of that, it’s important to choose a company that you can feel confident is reputable.
But how exactly do you know a company can be trusted?
One important factor in choosing the best contractor is longevity. Only a company that performs great work is going to be able to stick around for the long haul. That’s exactly the case with Emmons Remodeling, a company that has been offering expert care for South Jersey and the Jersey Shore area since 1996. They are a wellknown name in the region—and for good reason. Their success was built upon a reputation of honesty, integrity and good work.
“It’s a title that backs up our already strong reputation,” says Stephanee Kelly, coowner of the company along with her husband Matthew. “Only the most reputable companies are able to earn that designation.”
Besides being able to feel confident that you’ve hired a contractor you can trust, this designation benefits homeowners in a more tangible way as well. That’s because Platinum Preferred Contractors are able to offer 50-year warranties on their work— much longer than other companies can offer. According to Owens Corning’s website, “because we stand behind these warranties, we need to make sure that we are backing up the best roofers in the business.”
Emmons Remodeling has been providing interior remodeling service throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania for more than 30 years. The company has built its solid reputation on craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
As the family-owned company grows, it has expanded the team that is available to help design and build your projects. Several talented remodeling industry professionals have recently joined Emmons to serve its over 6,000 existing customers and help expand the growing number of satisfied customers throughout South Jersey.
They make it easy using a proprietary curated design concept, which is an industry first. It’s an easy, affordable way to quickly get a custom designed project without the heavy cost of a design-build process.
You can always trust Emmons to provide exceptional value and design with quality project outcomes. Now with Krista (lead designer/project planning manager), Rebecca (project design consultant), Frank (construction project manager) and Pete (director of operations) teaming up with seasoned vice president of construction Chris Kelly, key project manager Eric Gilham and 20 trade professionals, you can rest assured that your project is designed and built right. A fiveyear warranty and a lifetime service guarantee back up the claim of quality and craftsmanship, while providing you with peace of mind that you made the right decision.
The experts at Emmons are always ready to help you with kitchen, bathroom, additions and deck solutions. They make remodeling your home easy and affordable with exceptional financing programs and realistic pricing. Trust Emmons with your next project.
After all, the Emmons’ mission statement is: “Our customer’s experience builds our business and defines our reputation, which is one of trust, reliability, integrity and value for every customer we serve.”
Choosing Wisely
In fact, the company is an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor. That’s not a designation that any old company can have. Platinum Preferred Contractors are in the top tier of a premiernetwork of roofing professionals. In order to achieve this title, they must have passed a workmanship inspection, been professionally screened for financial stability and customer service, and continue to adhere to stringent guidelines set forth by Owens Corning. Fewer than 1% of roofing contractors in the United States are Owens Corning Platinum Preferred.
At the end of the day, your choice in roofing, siding and window contractors can be the difference between good, quality work—and a big headache. Stephanee says that the last thing Emmons wants to see is people in their local community get taken advantage of by unscrupulous roofing, siding and window contractors.
And the expertise is not limited kitchens and bathrooms. Emmons provides fullservice remodeling and construction services for additions, interior renovations, porches, decks, windows, doors and basement finishing. The design team acts as your trusted advisor to help you make the right decisions on products, materials, colors and selections.
“You should be able to feel confident that you’ve chosen a contractor that you can trust— not one that is going to leave you with problems to fix after they’ve gone,” she says. “At Emmons, you are not only investing in a new roof, new siding or new windows— you’re investing in peace of mind.”
trust BUILDING
“Should I hire a design-build firm for my next remodeling project?” Dennis Gehman of Gehman Design Remodeling weighs in.
by Bill Donahue
Undertaking any home-remodeling project requires a certain leap of faith. For those looking to remove some of the uncertainty, Dennis Gehman suggests one way to complete the project in a seamless, economical, and less stressful manner: Hire a design-build firm.
“Basically, it’s one-stop shopping,” says Gehman, president and co-founder of Gehman Design Remodeling in Harleysville. “Maybe people know they want a new kitchen, a room addition, or a finished basement, but they’re not sure who to call first, an architect or contractor. A designbuild firm is able to help them with everything from start to finish.”
Gehman says many people don’t understand the value a design-build firm brings to the table. Simply put, a design-build firm has a team of designers, architects, and tradesmen all working hand in hand. In addition, Gehman says most design-build firms take care of all the necessary permits and engineering work needed to complete the project.
“In our firm, the people who are doing the design upfront are in conversation with our production department and tradesmen,”
he adds. “If they arrive at something out of the ordinary, the designer can say, ‘This is what we want to achieve and here’s what we were thinking to make it happen; you have the tools, so what do you think?’ It’s a more collaborative way of doing things.”
Some people believe they might be able to save money by hiring disparate professionals who work independently—having one party draw up the plans and then putting the construction project out to bid. Although this approach might work to the homeowner’s advantage from time to time, Gehman has seen such arrangements result in certain details “falling through the cracks” in the construction phase.
“When we take on a project, everything about the project is on our minds,” he says. “The whole point of working with a design-build firm is that it should be less effort and less stress for the consumer. Another big value comes from the fact that there’s no blaming or finger-pointing if any problems arise, because the buck stops here.”
There’s also the issue of budgeting. Gehman says it’s important to work with someone who can help the homeowner plan for the unexpected.
“Maybe a homeowner has a budget of $60,000 for a kitchen remodel,” he poses. “Does that figure include contingencies? If it does not, is going over that amount going to hurt your lifestyle? In that situation, we might recommend ways to do the job for a budget of $50,000 as a way to plan for some of those contingencies, but without compromising the integrity of the work. Things come up, so we suggest leaving some wiggle room.”
Every new project begins with an indepth conversation with the homeowner— about desires, budget and options going forward. From there, Gehman Design Remodeling uses sophisticated CAD software to create a 3D design of the proposed design to help each homeowner envision how the finished project will look. Some of the options discussed may help to prevent situations that can cost the homeowner significant sums in the future.
“Maybe what spurred you to want a new kitchen is that you’ve noticed the floor beneath the sink has gotten wet too many times, and now the cabinet floor is starting to sag,” he suggests. “One option would be to add a vinyl liner beneath the sink. It holds up to six quarts of water, so for a drip you don’t see until it’s been happening for a long time, the water will stand rather than absorb into the wood. It’s an inexpensive add-on, but it could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars down the road.”
As a homeowner begins the process of identifying the “right” design-build firm for a job, Gehman offers the following advice: Interview several firms; meet them more than once, if possible; and check references. He also suggests learning about the team’s collective experience, including whether team members have gotten certified through NARI, also known as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. Of the 19 people employed by Gehman Design Remodeling, four are Certified Kitchen and Bathroom Remodelers, three are Universal Design Certified Professionals, and Gehman himself is a Master Certified Remodeler.
“My best advice is to find someone you feel comfortable with, and someone you feel is going to be honest with you,” he adds. “If you have any hesitation up front, it’s not going to get any easier to work with someone once the dust starts flying.”
expert Shore Sound & Cinema
WITH DECADES OF EXPERIENCE IN THE SMART HOME AND LUXURY AUDIO/VIDEO INDUSTRY, SHORE SOUND & CINEMA HAS BUILT A REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE AND DEPENDABILITY IN SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY.
We recently spoke with Neil Wiessler, president of Shore Sound & Cinema, who has been a leader in the industry for more than two decades, a feat that even catches him a bit by surprise.
“Has it been that long? Wow what a ride it has been! We’ve navigated a recession, survived a global pandemic and we’re still at it, doing what we love to do,” says Wiessler.
We spoke to Wiessler about recent advancements in his field, how his company stands out as an industry leader and what his customers along the Shore are desiring most these days. “The big ask continues to be how can we bring the technology outside for work and play as homeowners look to make the most out of their outdoor living space,” he says.
Neil Wiessler, President
AN EXPERIENCED TEAM…
Shore Sound & Cinema has served the Jersey Shore for 21 years and the level of experience our team has amassed is second to none.
When working with the best architects, builders and interior designers for as long as we have, we’ve developed a knowledge base of dos and don’ts that work reliably and result in fantastic systems that are fun, robust and easy to use.
TAKING THINGS OUTSIDE…
The backyard has become the new outdoor living room. Televisions are amazing additions to any outdoor entertainment space and outdoor speakers can be designed to blend almost invisibly into the garden or patio. Also important is Wi-Fi—lots and lots of outdoor Wi-Fi coverage.
PROPER PLANNING…
Planning, planning, planning … did we mention planning? Proper planning and communication prevent problems from occurring. We continuously meet with the builder, landscape team, pool contractor and any other trade involved with our outdoor projects to make sure that everyone is on the same page. And if problems develop, we resolve them quickly and efficiently.
GATHERING AREAS…
The outside is no longer “just a backyard.” The yard is broken into areas now—the patio, the outdoor kitchen, the entertaining space, the pool, the spa the only limitation is size.
Our goal is to always provide individual control over each area. We do not want clients to have to yell over the sound of the music or create unhappy neighbors by playing music too loud. By controlling each area separately and by proper speaker placement, everything sounds awesome and everyone is happy.
OUTDOORS AT THE SHORE…
There’s an old expression that says, “Noth-
ing lasts forever at the Jersey Shore.” And no truer words have been spoken.
We’ve used just about every product throughout the years and the brands we offer are about the most durable products out there. From outdoor TVs to speakers and dedicated outdoor Wi-Fi, Shore Sound & Cinema offers best-inclass, reliable products.
A HIGH LEVEL OF SERVICE…
With any technology comes support, and support can make or break a company.
The most important thing I’ve learned running a successful business, is to answer the phone. Many issues can be resolved remotely, and we can get the client back to enjoying the summer very quickly, but you’ve got to answer that phone call.
Shore Sound & Cinema offers maintenance contracts and remote access support to keep our clients resting comfortably seven days a week, 365 days a year.
With our Concierge Level plans, we can monitor, diagnose and repair issues, sometimes before the client even knows they exist.
SEASONAL
Talking Trends
are more about efficiency and utility than design and color.
by CARLY MURRAY
Everyone has different aesthetic preferences and with no shortage of varying options, cookie-cutter copies are in the past.
Home design is ultimately an art form. Especially on social media, the only unifying element among trending room arrangements is their out-of-the-box creativity. While eccentricity isn’t for every-
one, DIY home designers can take inspiration from the theme of unrestrained personalization at their own level and pace. A space truly comes together when different pieces harmonize with one another, which can spark ideas for additional coordinating elements or a fitting color palette. Details and accessories are an integral part of elevating a room, and
“PEOPLE LIKE COLOR AND ARE REALIZING THAT PUTTING COLOR ON THE WALLS CAN EASILY BE CHANGED—IT’S JUST PAINT,”
Dennis Gehman, president of Gehman Design Remodeling
consequentially the experience one has within it.
“Incorporating personal touches is the first step in spicing up their bedroom,” affirms Julianne Hidirsah, president of The Main Street Workroom. “Adding artwork and decor items from your travels or that really represent your personality brings love into your space. I suggest to
GEHMAN DESIGN REMODELING
GEHMAN DESIGN REMODELING
clients to tie custom drapery in with the artwork. Pulling colors from your artwork or even your rug will tie in your drapery perfectly. These small touches make your space unique.”
Luxury, too, is now more “feel” than “look.” From smartphone-controlled appliances to tastefully selected ambient lighting, opulence can be achieved with spatial cognizance and consideration of appli-
cability. Take, for instance, a refrigerator with the technology to keep track of a grocery list, or heated bathroom floors to enjoy a spa experience right at home.
“Showers are also important: body sprays, handhelds, rain showers … these are some of the things that are emerging as you get into the younger generation as well. Of course, they tend to want something a little bit more contemporary, and they’re
a little bit more avant-garde with some more specialty lighting that we might do,” says Dave Cerami, owner of HomeTech Renovations. “Budget has a lot to do with what we will offer and recommend, but there’s no shortage of great ideas and great things to do.”
When people envision luxury, they may picture an all-white open layout (á la the viral photos of Kim Kardashian’s spotless, minimalist open-space layout mansion). This contemporary style, however, is already antiquated. Furthermore, white surfaces easily collect dirt, stains and other imperfections.
“White is clearly out,” explains Cerami. “People still like white cabinetry, but it’s sort of been put on the back burner. We still do some of it, but certainly rather than white, we’re doing more eggshells, cream off-whites, more natural wood that would feature some grain—whether it’s white oak or shades of muted grays [which allow] wood grains to certainly emanate.”
Luxury vinyl plank is still an optimal choice on a budget or with the need for damage-resistant flooring, such as owning pets that will inevitably scratch it up. However, luxury vinyl plank is losing traction from its popularity last year, and homeowners are opting instead for premium-qual-
HOMETECH RENOVATIONS
HOMETECH RENOVATIONS
Talking Trends
ity, genuine materials like porcelain, stone or wood.
Pops of color have been incorporated more frequently than ever before, even within predominantly muted or neutral color schemes. Greens and blues are often used because of their capability to both look vivid and harmonize with natural tones. Experimenting with different vibrancies and shades within a blue or green spectrum may also produce phenomenal results.
“People like color and are realizing that putting color on the walls can easily be changed—it’s just paint,” says Dennis Gehman, president of Gehman Design Remodeling.
Another trend in functionality is transforming a home into a multigenerational living space. Sometimes, each section of the home is a single, cohesive aesthetic, and sometimes each member of the household chooses their own design according to preference. With an open-floor plan, it is less likely that the design will change from room to room. It really just depends on what the space and lifestyle considerations allow.
“It depends on how shared the multiple generational living spaces are. If they’re basically living in the same space then it seems that the younger generation chooses the style of the space,” explains Gehman. “With separate living spaces, each generation chooses what they want the space to be. It also depends on who’s moving in with who. Whoever had the house first generally gets the most say about style.”
As the cost of living increases, homeowners find it most practical and cost-effective to work with what they
have rather than move to a new location. Even small changes can breathe new life into a home and the people residing there.
Home renovation projects are certainly exciting, but they can quickly become overwhelming. Hiring an expert to guide the process not only ensures that the vision is possible, but also can help homeowners obtain similar, alternate plans if the space or budget cannot accommodate one’s imagination. Consulting a professional doesn’t diminish personalization, but rather expands and curates individual preferences.
“When making your home unique to you and your family, my biggest piece of advice is to not keep up with the Joneses,” says Hidirsah. “I always say to clients, my opinion doesn’t matter at the end of the day, you have to live in the space and you have to love it.”
RESOURCES
Clymer, Design-Build Specialist
The Amiano Advantage: The Expert Process Transforming Jersey Shore Homes
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BUILDING AT THE SHORE VERSUS ANOTHER PART OF NEW JERSEY?
Building at the Jersey Shore is different from constructing homes in other parts of New Jersey due to unique environmental factors and stricter building codes. Coastal areas have specific codes for roofing, wall systems and base flood elevation designed to withstand high winds and flooding common to shore environments. These codes make the permitting process more complex.
The installation of materials also differs, as harsh weather conditions such as salt air, summer heat and winter winds challenge exterior durability. At Amiano & Son, we use specialized siding designed to withstand these elements, unlike regular siding, which can warp or become wavy due to the relentless wind and salt exposure. The specialized siding we use ensures longer-lasting stability.
The salt air also causes fasteners, such as deck handrails, window hardware and mounting brackets, to corrode faster than in noncoastal areas. At Amiano & Son, we understand these challenges and use the right products and techniques to ensure your remodel stands up to the elements.
HOW DOES THE PROCESS WORK FOR A JERSEY SHORE REMODEL?
At Amiano & Son Design-Build, we follow a thorough process for every remodel, ensuring
quality, efficiency and attention to detail. For Shore homes, we account for coastal challenges with additional steps to deliver durable, beautiful results.
Our process begins with an initial phone call to gather information. We then schedule an in-home consultation to assess the area and outline the scope of work. Next, we meet at our showroom to finalize the project details and investment.
Once the design is agreed upon, we prepare the construction contract and plans, including the scope, materials, investment and timeline. We also schedule a pre-construction meeting to walk you through the process. Then construction begins: We order materials, secure permits and start work. Lastly, we conduct a quality control check and then provide a warranty packet.
For Shore home remodels, we offer virtual consultations and mail material samples to accommodate clients who may not be onsite. Our Jersey Shore showroom at 2500 Long Beach Blvd. in Ship Bottom is specially curated for coastal designs to meet the unique needs of Shore homes.
WHAT
ARE SOME UNIQUE PRODUCTS OR FACTORS USED WHILE BUILDING AT THE SHORE?
We prioritize durable, coastal-friendly materials to ensure your home withstands the harsh Shore environments. For siding, we use Henry Blueskin, a water-resistant pre-siding layer that provides an extra barrier against wind and water damage. We then install James Hardy Plank, a fiber cement material known for its strength and resistance to fluctuating temperatures, high winds and salt air. Available
in horizontal and vertical installation options, it offers aesthetic versatility, with the cedar shake style being a popular choice for Shore home owners.
James Hardy Plank’s thickness adds rigidity, ensuring longevity in the face of the Shore’s harsh climate. It comes in prefinished colors that resist fading and discoloration, which is essential given the effects of the sun and salt air at the Shore.
For roofing, we use Owens Corning Asphalt Shingles, designed to withstand high winds with superior wind ratings, perfect for coastal areas. We also consider the salt air’s effects on glass, opting for products specifically designed to resist hazing and buildup. These products ensure durability, protection and long-lasting beauty in your Shore home remodel.
HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY TRENDS TAKING PLACE WHILE WORKING WITH YOUR JERSEY SHORE CLIENTS?
At Amiano & Son, we keep up with the latest design trends for Shore homes. One popular trend is the use of blue tones paired with natural wood tones, creating a timeless coastal charm. We also see a growing interest in textures like shiplap barnwood, grass cloth wallpapers and linen fabrics, which add warmth and dimension to coastal spaces.
Naturally toned hardwood floors are also in demand, with clients opting for minimal staining to highlight the natural grain. Subtle coastal-inspired decorative details such as shell hardware and wooden light fixtures add unique, beachy touches to the interior.
Outdoor living spaces are a significant trend, with many clients requesting expanded patios, decks, pools and outdoor kitchens. Despite limited backyard space on many Shore properties, we find creative ways to maximize outdoor areas, including fire pits and outdoor showers. These trends reflect the Jersey Shore’s relaxed lifestyle and stunning views, and we love helping clients create beautiful, functional spaces.
At Amiano & Son, we are proud to be part of these exciting trends, transforming Shore homes into stunning retreats that blend coastal beauty with personal style!
Joseph
We can make your dreams a reality! Working together with our customers using state of the art 3D imaging and years of experience. From paver installation to outdoor fireplaces, we can handle it all!
To create a gorgeous landscape, the manmade elements of the scenery need to be just as engaging as the natural features. We offer phenomenal hardscaping that will make your yard inviting and refined while also providing functional space. Whether you want to transform your backyard or the front of your house our custom designs and attention to detail are sure to bring your homes outside décor to the next level while adding value too.
Evergreen Pros pools and outdoor kitchens
We install high quality fiberglass pools locally made by Dolphin Industries & Leisure Pools. Fiberglass pools have many advantages over other types of pools such as one piece construction and lower maintenance costs. There are no liners to worry about tearing and they are faster to install so you will be swimming in your new pool sooner. With 60 pool styles, 20 spa designs, and multiple color options you will be able to have a custom pool that will last a lifetime. With a dome, you can use your pool all year round.
are the outdoor kitchen professionals! Take your dream kitchen ideas outdoors with our top of the line designs! We use all professional grade grill tops, refrigerators and storage drawers. We will finish off the look with a custom granite or limestone top! We also install ramadas and pergolas.
hardscaping/ patios
Help add curb appeal and value to your home. We design and install many different hardscapes. One of our ICPI Certified professionals will come to your home to take measurements and photographs to put into our computer program. With this program, the designer will create an image to help you visualize what your yard will look like when complete. We carry a specialized line of high end Italian porcelain pavers.
EMBRACE THE OUTDOORS BY TRANSFORMING YOUR BACKYARD INTO THE PERFECT SPACE TO BOTH HOST AND RELAX.
by Chelsea Valcourt
This region’s cold weather leaves many pining for the days of relaxing out in the sun. For some this means a walk around the nearest park, for others it means heading down the Shore for a day on the beach—and for the lucky ones, it means taking a trip somewhere much warmer. For many however, this often means hosting friends and family within the comfort of your own backyard.
While much of the home improvement space focuses on the indoors, the exterior space of the home can be transformed into an oasis capable of entertaining family and friends, or even a relaxing getaway to escape from the world for a while.
Eliminating Pests
The first step toward creating an enjoyable outdoor space is reducing irritants,
Backyard Beauty
and there is little more annoying than trying to enjoy the nice weather while being bombarded by bugs. In addition to spiders and beetles, pesty insects like mosquitoes are often relentless in their need to harass humans.
According to Mike Lescas, owner of Lescas Enterprises, a deck is a great way to get off the ground and away from mosquitoes and other insects. Enclosing your deck takes things a step further by physically blocking any pests from entering your space— with an added benefit of protection from the elements.
“I have a covering to stop the sun, the rain and all that stuff,” says Lescas. “I am protected all year long so I get to use my space all year.”
Beyond physical structures, landscaping can serve a dual purpose as a pest repellent and a way to beautify the area.
“Incorporating plants, which have mosquito-repelling properties, into the landscape or in container gardens surrounding outdoor living spaces can lead to much more enjoyable summer evenings and ward off those uninvited guests,” says Michael Pasquarello, a degreed landscape architect at Elite Landscaping. “Plants such as geranium, citronella, basil, rosemary and lemon balm are all great choices [that] will not only beat the bugs but will also add to the visual interest of your space.”
Outdoor Kitchens
One way to capitalize on the beauty of your backyard is to incorporate indoor components into your outdoor design.
One rising trend in outdoor living blends practicality with spectacle, delighting friends and families alike: the pizza oven. Pizza ovens are a unique and fun way to provide customizable food with an amazing taste. There are four options of pizza ovens available to meet the needs of each individual homeowner: electric, propane, natural gas and wood fire.
A wood-fire oven is often considered the best tasting option, allowing you to both utilize and maximize the flavors of burning cherry or apple wood. However, it may not be the best option for those with young kids or those on the go as these ovens take time
to heat up.
Natural gas and electric ovens will come to temperature much quicker, but may require running a branch line from the home. If neither is available or desired, propane ovens offer the most accessible option to homeowners, but requires the occasional changing and refilling of the tanks.
In addition to the pizza oven itself, you’ll
want a preparation area to enhance that outdoor experience.
“You always want to make sure you have the appropriate counter space,” says Nick Erman, co-owner of Evergreen Pros. “That way they have enough room for the fixings and to be able to spread out.”
In addition, common outdoor cooking instruments like grills and smokers can be
incorporated into an outdoor design creating a cohesive and classy look. The grill no longer needs to sit awkwardly against the side of the house waiting to be used. It can be deconstructed and sit within an outdoor island.
But outdoor food preparation goes beyond specialty items like the pizza oven or grill.
Adding in components like sinks, trash cans or refrigerators can eliminate the need to keep running in and out of the house— leaving you with more time to interact with your guests and decreasing the amount of bugs and heating and air conditioning entering and exiting your home.
“A full operational outdoor kitchen allows customers to have everything at the tip of their fingers in their outdoor oasis,” says Erman. “We want them to have the same features they have inside so that when they’re cooking all they have to do is bring their food out.”
Having a fully functional outdoor kitchen elevates the backyard experience by allowing the cook to stay present with family and friends. It eliminates the need to leave one or two people inside to cook while everyone else has fun and makes it easier to keep an eye on little ones while food is prepared. “Food has the capability to make families friendlier and turn friends into family,” says Pasquarello.
“So put away those frozen hotdog and hamburger packets and prepare a spread worthy of a five-star restaurant.”
Water Features
Water features are an excellent way to add zen and spectacle to your backyard. From koi ponds to fountains there are a ton of options available, although one has risen in popularity for its elegance, safety and ease: the pondless water feature.
“The most popular water feature we do is called a pondless water feature, meaning there’s a stream and you’ve got all these nice little waterfalls, and it’s beautiful. You get the sound of water, you get sunshine, you get birds, your dogs can go in and your kids can play in it. But, it disappears into a gravel bed; it doesn’t go into a pond and therefore it’s totally safe,” says Rich Cording Sr., owner of CLC Landscape Design.
Water is recycled through the system, with the basin stored under the gravel bed (and away from breeding insects), this system remains a low-maintenance addition.
Bring home the luxury of a high-end lobby with a pondless waterfall or the grandeur of Gatsby with a pondless fountain—either is an excellent way to liven up your backyard space.
Swim-Mor SHORE SHOWCASE pools
Swim-Mor
Pools & Spas
is a family-owned -operated business started in 1967 that proudly carries on tradition of quality our products. We an experienced staff that utilizes some of the latest technology to bring to you. Visit or contact one of our three convenient locations for a consultation about building your ideal pool.
new renovations
Put some tropical escape back into your suburban sprawl. This perfect oasis is no mirage but the ideal transformation of your yard to the spot where everyone gathers to enjoy.
latest features, functions and materials. Add the hydrotherapy spa that you always wanted or simply replace the worn plaster, tile and coping, a full range of options is available. neighbors level of that you dreamed now everything parties and birthdays.
