Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, Frank Liantonio, Darren Slaughter, Lori Vorgang, Amy B. Weiss
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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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of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. H&H is not responsible for loss, damage or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork or any other unsolicited materials. Furthermore, H&H will assume that unsolicited photographs, as well as ad photographs, 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.
Let The Sun Shine In
by Chelsea Valcourt
Daniel Robert Remodeling brings the best of the Shore into your home.
Ahome at the Shore is often the ultimate symbol of relaxation and luxury—and living on the East Coast presents an incredible opportunity to get in on the action. A Shore home, however, differs from one’s traditional residence as its location encourages a more open, bright and coastal feel.
Achieving this can be quite simple as small design choices and replacements have a big impact on the aesthetics and feel of a home.
“Adding in or changing windows and doors is a great way to brighten up your space and make your ceilings look higher,” says John Wisniewski, president of Daniel Robert Remodeling. Bring the bright, sunny feel characteristic of a perfect day at the beach into your home by installing open windows on both the outside and inside of your home.
“One project we have done and love was an interior transom window that brings light from one room into another,” Wisniewski continues. “Sunlight doesn’t always shine where we want it and an interior transom window can brighten up a space without being a large, expensive project.”
Indeed, installing interior windows can help bring that summer sun into your interior rooms while still maintaining the wall boundaries and privacy of your home. A transom window will accentuate preexisting doors and windows for a heightened effect.
In addition to the aesthetics of your home, it’s also important to consider the durability and uniqueness of your home.
With family and friends retreating to the house after a long day on the beach or out by the pool, it’s likely your floors will see their fair share of water and sand wear-andtear. Choosing the right flooring can prolong the life of your materials and avoid unnecessary expedited damage.
“Design is important but functionality is key,” says Wisniewski. “Flooring choices that are ideal for sandy and moist weather make it easier for people to enter comfortably; tile and waterproof luxury vinyl plank are the top choices. Wood-look ceramic tiles are another popular choice.”
Hardwood flooring, while beautiful in design, is prone to absorb humidity which can lead to warping. Much like other homes, carpet can be used in spaces like a bedroom to provide that sense of comfort while still being able to muster up to the demands of a Shore lifestyle. Other lifestyle considerations include children and pets, further necessitating durable materials.
In terms of individuality, the traditional Shore home usually includes a blend of whites
and blues—reminiscent of the calming waves nearby. However, beyond color, there are many more ways to encourage the Shore decor aesthetic within your home.
“Tile choice, accent cabinets, mixture of cabinet colors, or incorporating wicker or rattan in your lighting is a great way to embrace the Shore vibe without using [the classic] white and blue,” says Wisniewski. “You can also try incorporating stripes or mermaid-tail or fin-style shapes in tiles to really give it that down-the-Shore feel.”
Don’t forget about the exterior of your home as it’s likely you’ll spend a lot of time enjoying your yard and soaking up the rays outside. A solid roofing color and texture can really make your exterior stand out and complement your siding or brickwork. Whether opting for a style inspired by the stunning natural scenery, a bold pop of color or something else entirely, taking the time to plan and weigh options will go a long way toward the finished product of your dreams.
“For the exterior, many houses are using the CertainTeed Cedar Impressions on their siding in a beautiful color scheme in the blues,” says Frank Redrow, VP of Exteriors at Daniel Robert Remodeling. “This classic Jersey Shore style is reminiscent of the original cedar shake that used to be on the majority of the houses down the Shore.”
Home renovation projects are a great way to invest in your property’s value both financially and emotionally. Not only will a well-executed renovation project bring your home into the modern age and boost property value, but a few small improvements can drastically improve your home’s appearance, storage and atmosphere.
“People don’t usually talk about how a renovation can make a family feel,” says Wisniewski. “Your Shore home is your oasis and it should be specific to you and your idea of what a dream vacation home should look like.”
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.”
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.
Embracing SurroundingsYour
FOWN PROPERTIES
IT IS IMPORTANT COASTAL RETREAT THE AMENITIES AND THEIR MAIN RESIALSO LOOK AND FEEL
Drawing inspiration locale, modern incorporating both simple and sophisticated design elements that are fitting for the destination.
Achieving that distinct beachy vibe can be obtained a number of ways, whether choosing the right paint color, distinctive doors, functional yet stylish outdoor furniture or other components to help enhance both the home’s interior and exterior.
Paying close attention to the latest design trends can certainly serve as inspiration as you envision ways to transform your living space at the Shore. Maximizing open living spaces, capturing sun and taking advantage of picturesque views, and creating a relaxed aesthetic are frequently at the top of many homeowners’ wish lists.
“We find Shore house design consistent and distinct—light and airy, with natural materials … white and soft colors to help beat the summer heat,” says Jeremy Cressman, owner of One Day Doors & Closets of Delaware Valley. “Shore homes are designed in all manners of style, but more embrace the open, minimal-elegant compliment to sun and sea. Today, a number of Shore owners are challenging the beachy feel with rich, deep-tone colors, natural woods and vintage furniture.”
Audra Delconte, owner of Royal Billiard & Recreation, has also noticed homeowners using more freedom with their design choices.
“I do feel like second homes offer an opportunity to take more of a design risk. Some may use a bold color that they would not want in their main home. Or maybe a fun upholstery option on counter stools or the couch,” she says.
“Homeowners will definitely take the opportunity to have some fun with the décor of their vacation homes,” agrees Jackie Fama, an interior design consultant at Oskar Huber Furniture and Design’s Ship Bottom location.
This may include the additions of whimsical, colorful coastal stripes, starfish and seashell fabrics to represent living by the water, while others might
go for a more natural, elevated coastal design with soft neutral colors, cotton and linen fabrics. Utilizing natural accessories and adding layers of textures can also help bring that authentic resortlike vibe into a vacation home.
“WE FIND SHORE HOUSE DESIGN CONSISTENT AND DISTINCT—LIGHT AND AIRY, WITH NATURAL MATERIALS … WHITE AND SOFT COLORS TO HELP BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT”
Jeremy Cressman, Owner, One Day Doors & Closets of Delaware Valley
Of late, Fama says she’s observing folks gravitate toward a more modern coastal style with clean lines, soft or white wall colors, lighter hues of soft-performance boucle or linen fabrics, while adding contrast with silhouettes of sculpted darker light fixtures, and black or dark colored window panes.
What’s more, live edge dining tables accompanied by complimentary upholstered or weathered leather dining chairs with metal framing has become another popular choice because it combines those coastal elements with contemporary style.
“In coastal home design, the trend has always been creating spaces that feel natural, breezy and connected to the outdoors while offering comfort and elegance,” Fama says. “There are many design styles that can get that look and feeling for each individual home. Driftwoodinspired furniture, weathered wood paneling and vintage touches create a sense of history and coastal charm. Coastal art is also a fun way to [incorporate these design elements].”
Cressman says he sees a wide variety of materials, textures and finishes in today’s Shore homes, but clearly the influence of nature, water and sun provide for the peace and relaxation that homeowners seek at the Shore. And sometimes, the best way to highlight those influences is by championing the color white throughout the home.
“Without question, white walls with white doors, trim—and even white closet systems—complement the sun and water at the Shore. Nothing reflects light and brightens a space more than extra white,” he says.
From Delconte’s viewpoint, it’s about forming a cohesive plan while still mixing in characteristics that give each room its own personality and charm.
“It’s about creating different spaces. This can be accomplished just by changing paint colors from one area to another. If building walls are not an option, which they are often not, room dividers can do the trick as people are dividing up the large, open floor plans to create cozier spaces,” she says. “Perhaps a darker space that offers a speakeasy feel with a smaller game like darts or shuffleboard as a fun accent. … We are see-
Embracing Your Surroundings
ing larger games such as billiards or ping pong being placed in separate rooms [as well].”
When it comes to doors, Cressman says ditching your “old, paper-thin” versions can go a long way to giving your home’s interior a much-needed boost.
More and more he sees Shore home owners leaning into luxury panels, farmhouse-influenced shaker-style doors as well as authentic, natural woods. “These doors make a distinctive statement,” he affirms.
“Our Valencia, Manhattan and Savannah raised panel doors show clean, elegant construction with luxurious transitions. And with all-wood stile and rail construction, our Legacy shaker doors are still our most popular at the Shore. Some homeowners and their designers also opt for authentic six-panel pine or knotty-alder wood doors,” Cressman says.
All the doors that Cressman and his team offer can be installed in just a matter of hours and are custom-made to fit into existing frames, no matter the dimensions, age or condition. And new hinges and hardware further ensure an exact fit for every door, no matter if it’s located in the bedroom, the bathroom, the kitchen or otherwise.
“Back at the main residence, the emphasis is on the practical, with connec-
tion to the outdoor as well. Owners lean toward luxurious interiors, kitchens, and especially outdoor living space, but always with a nod to function, daily life and practicality,” says Cressman. “Our customers are always looking to improve their aesthetic, but first, the doors and the closet systems need to work for daily use.”
For those conscious of combining indoor and outdoor living spaces, marrying the two in order to maximize livable space is paramount. Choosing the right
outdoor furniture is a crucial first step and there are several options that cater to varying needs and desires.
Polymer-aluminum and resin outdoor furniture with powdercoat finishes are a great choice according to Fama and offer a variety of styles, colors and fabrics to choose from. Another sought-after option is polyethylene lumber, which is very durable and won’t warp, crack or splinter. Synthetic rattan and wicker are another great choice because they are highly resistant to UV rays, moisture and
ONE DAY DOORS & CLOSETS OF DELAWARE VALLEY
ONE DAY DOORS & CLOSETS OF DELAWARE VALLEY
Embracing Your Surroundings
mildew and can be used for lounge chairs, sofa seating or dining sets.
Teak furniture also remains highly in-demand and Fama calls it a “gorgeous choice.”
“Because [teak] is a truly natural material, over time the wood will patina from a rich wood tone to a grayish driftwood color. The patina just adds to the richness and natural aesthetic to the outdoor oasis,” she says.
Ultimately, finding the design-ethos of one’s Shore home will always boil down to a matter of personal preference and sense of style. Whether you’re looking to capitalize on natural light, bridge the gap between interior and exterior living spaces, or merge vintage vibes with modernized touches, the possibilities are seemingly endless.
“There are so many ways for a homeowner to bring a coastal feel to their vacation home,” Fama says. “It comes down to what they like and what style will bring that feeling of relaxation and peace. It really is all about the individual detail.”
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.
