Chatham & Short Hills, NJ March 2024

DON'T

March Home Elegance

Home. So much contained in that little four-letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.“ As we thought about home - we wanted to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That of course includes the aesthetic and design, but most importantly - the people.

In this issue you’ll discover Mijack Home Builders, a luxury builder, and be inspired by General Plumbing Supply’s latest innovations in plumbing fixtures and discover the Window Works showroom that offers much more than custom window treatments and more!

We feel like the lucky ones as we got to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise this area and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your town, neighborhood and most all of - your home.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

If you are looking to grow your business and advertise with us, or have local stories to share, reach out to John.Meyer@citylifestyle.com or call us at 973-9441440. We look forward to seeing you around town!

Happy March!

ANA MEYER AND JOHN MEYER, PUBLISHERS @CHATHAMSHORTHILLS

city scene

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Chatham Chamber of Commerce event held at Chatham’s Pascarella Brothers.

1-4: Chatham Chamber of Commerce members at event. 5: Chatham Board members 6: Chatham Borough Mayor Carolyn Dempsey and Chatham Borough Councilman Justin Strickland with board members.

RENSON ALGARVE

RENSON CAMARGUE

RENSON CAMARGUE

RENSON ALGARVE

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICA MOFFITT OF NAKI STUDIO

Window Works in Livingston has everything you can imagine for windows from custom draperies and shades to blinds and shutters, but this family-owned and-operated business, which has been in operation for over 40 years, has so much more to make

shades, blinds, and valances that work with your lifestyle and needs. Figuring out the best width and length and picking the correct hardware to hold it all up is also critical. Once that’s done, their fabricators get to work, and then their professional installers

“GREAT PRODUCTS AND MOST OF ALL GREAT SERVICE.” ROSA PEREIRA, NORTHERN NJ

your home or business beautiful inside and out.

Interior designers, contractors and other industry professionals especially love to work with Window Works since it has trade quality materials and products typically found in upscale hotels and stately homes. Instead of venturing into New York City to find high-end specialized merchandise, you can stay close to home, and visit Window Works in Livingston.

HERE IS JUST A SAMPLING OF WHAT WINDOW WORKS HAS TO OFFER:

• Windows Window Works has hundreds of fabric samples with a variety of patterns, textures, compositions, and colors from the best names in the industry such as Stout, Kravet, and Romo.

Purchasing window treatments on your own can be complicated, but here, there are experienced window treatment specialists who can help with choosing the right fabrics,

hang them just right to turn them into true works of art.

• Wallpaper

While some people may be intimidated by wallpaper, there’s nothing like it to totally transform the look and feel of a room into a traditional oasis, a modern space, or a fun kid’s room. Window Works has one of the largest selections of wallpaper patterns in the area from the most talented designers in the industry. And once again, its experienced staff can make choosing the right one a seamless and enjoyable experience.

• Awnings

Whether for a home or business, Window Works has awnings that will meet your needs, including retractable awnings that roll up with the touch of a button. Roll it out on a sunny day and roll it back in when it’s cloudy or dark. Or choose a stationary awning that stays in place all year round.

Freestanding awnings are great around a pool, outdoor kitchen or to

INSTEAD OF VENTURING INTO NEW YORK CITY TO FIND

HIGH-END SPECIALIZED MERCHANDISE, YOU CAN STAY CLOSE TO HOME, AND VISIT WINDOW WORKS IN LIVINGSTON.

cover a walkway, while window awnings are great additions to any property. Its array of commercial awnings make storefronts more attractive and protect customers from the elements.

Gennius products, which can create indoor/outdoor rooms, offer waterproof fabrics for an instant pergola. Motorized or manually operated solar shades can also be added to create a completely retractable enclosure. If you already have a pergola but want extra protection, or would like to create an outdoor space, add pergola awnings.

Make a free design appointment today with one of Window Works experts to elevate your home or business. Visit WindowWorks-NJ.com

Custom Drapery By Window Works, Design by Leipold Design Group

President Justin Freedman

FAUCET FORWARD

President Justin Freedman Unveils Pioneering Trends & Innovations Redefining Kitchen and Baths Elegance

In the heart of home design evolution, kitchens and baths take center stage, with General Plumbing Supply (GPS) leading the charge into the future. As a family-owned-and-operated business thriving for over a century, GPS continues to set the bar higher. We caught up with President Justin Freedman to get an exclusive insight into the latest trends shaping our daily oasis experiences.

With 24 locations across New Jersey and New York, from their oldest Bayonne dating back to 1910, to Morris Plains, and more, GPS is expanding its footprint. The buzz? A brand-new KOHLER Signature Store set to grace Summit, promising a haven for those seeking the epitome of kitchen and bath sophistication.

Diving into the heart of GPS offerings, it’s not just about plumbing fixtures—it’s a comprehensive experience. From cabinetry and vanities to lighting (and tile at our 4 Kohler Stores), GPS has become a one-stop destination for consumers, contractors, builders, and developers. The secret sauce? Quality products coupled with personalized customer service and expert designers ready to elevate your projects.

Justin Freedman sheds light on the prevailing trends. “A leading trend in the industry back to transitional and even traditional in some cases. Not everyone wants to do a total gut out. They still want to be able to find something that fits in their traditional bathroom. Transitional finishes like brushed brass

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY BEN MEYER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

and titanium are also trending. Our manufacturers have extended most finishes in most of their product families. We offer thousands of choices.”

“Innovations are revolutionizing the whole shower experience through either mechanical or digital valving,” says Freedman, emphasizing the shift towards smart plumbing connected to Google and Apple. Working showers in some showrooms provide customers with a firsthand experience of the digital showering revolution. “We stay on top of what the customers want.”

Summit, the newest location, promises more than just plumbing fixtures. Renowned designer Shea McGee’s products will be in stock and on display, adding a touch of sophistication to the already impressive offerings.

“Wellness is trending,” notes Freedman, linking wellness and steam to a robust immune system. Organization is another key player, with GPS offering everything from builder-grade to semi-custom cabinetry.

Now, enter the latest innovations from Kohler— The Stillness™ Experience, a 46” x 46” freestanding bath, and the Numi 2.0 smart toilet. The Stillness Experience transforms bathing into a journey of body and soul purification. An Experience tower envelops you in aromatherapy, fog, and lighting, enhancing relaxation, while the PerfectFill™ drain system prevents overflow.

The Numi 2.0 smart toilet, Kohler’s pinnacle of design and technology, brings unmatched comfort and cleansing. Personalized settings, ambient colored lighting, a built-in audio speaker system, and hands-free features redefine the bathroom experience. Intuitive remote control with the KOHLER Konnect® app for advanced control marks a new standard of excellence.

To fuel these trends, GPS boasts a colossal 300,000 square foot warehouse in Piscataway. With a vast inventory, next-day delivery is all it takes to bring your dream project to life. The Piscataway location also hosts the largest showroom, a design haven filled with choices in plumbing fixtures, cabinetry, lighting, and countertops.

Embark on your project journey with confidence at General Plumbing Supply. Whether a dream in the making or already underway, GPS promises to deliver precisely what you need. https:// generalplumbingsupply.net/ and www.kohlerbygps.com

GPS closest showrooms and Kohler Signature stores in our area.

Flemington, NJ

178 Route 202 & 31 N

Phone: 908-782-2221

Showroom Counter

Green Brook, NJ

25 Route 22 E

Phone: 732-752-2020

Showroom Counter

Morris Plains, NJ

663 Speedwell Ave

Phone: 973-993-9700

Showroom Counter

Orange, NJ

540 Thomas Blvd

Phone: 973-414-9477

Showroom Counter

Paramus, NJ

Kohler Signature Store

160 Route 17 N

Phone: 201-322-5000

Showroom

Piscataway, NJ

Showroom, Distribution Center, and Corporate Offices

330 S Randolphville Rd

Phone: 732-248-1000

Summit, NJ

Kohler Signature Store

COMING SOON!

407 Springfield Ave

Phone: 908-376-0030

President Justin Freedman Kohler—The Stillness™ Experience

Kohler's Numi 2.0 smart toilet

“

While Magnolia Home Remodeling Group in Union can handle the most luxurious remodel with every conceivable option, the company also values projects with modest budgets.

“We are not focused on the dollar amount of a project,” says Vic Fiore, who owns the company along with his brother-in-law, Chris Fontana. “We look at each project as an opportunity to build relationships so clients will consider us again. Whether hiring us for a small service or large project, living in a high value home or a moderate residence, it doesn’t matter. We want people to understand our process and get to know us. Performing at a high level with constant communication is how Magnolia grows its business.”

If you’re looking to remodel a kitchen, for example, you don’t have to spend a certain dollar amount to get a great space. “We can sit down together and understand your goals and then figure out what budget you might need in order to achieve that. We’ll do whatever we can to make the project happen and not sacrifice any quality or details. We put a great amount of effort into these projects to meet or exceed expectations.”

Vic doesn’t want homeowners extending their budget to get what they want. “We’d rather they stay within or below their budget so that they have a better comfort level and they feel good about the project the whole way through,” he says.

With today’s higher interest rates, many people who need more room in their homes or need a better functioning home don’t want to move. Instead, they prefer to renovate their house to get the space they need without relocating and taking on a higher interest rate. This installment plan allows them to do just that.

Whether homeowners want a minor refresh or to have a room totally gutted and remodeled, the Magnolia team is with them every step of the way. Regardless of price point, its professional installers are able to install products and finishes at a high level.

“We have installers that we’ve been using for many years who are tested and proven,” says Vic. “We all care deeply about the finished product.”

Magnolia offers a great variety of home improvement services including roofing, siding, windows, kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and additions. It also does hardscape, outdoor living, porches, patios and more.

“We’re in a very competitive industry and there are always new products coming along with new techniques and processes,” he says. “We work hard to stay up on these different options.”

With Magnolia being family owned and operated, Vic and Chris have a vested interest in making sure they build solid relationships, retain customers, keep their reputation strong and continue to grow their business. To see how they can improve your living space, go to MagnoliaHomeRemodeling.com

CONTINUED

29 MARCH 2024 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CHATHAMANDSHORTHILLS

“ ” Exterior renovation & addition Bath & Dressing Room project 30

“

We’re in a very competitive industry and there are always new products coming along with new techniques and processes.

Full house renovation:

Stairs and hallways

Picture window

Bathroom renovation

HIGH-QUALITY

LUXURY HOMES THAT FULFILL EVERY WISH

Built To Last

Custom

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY

When Michael Giacopelli had his luxury house in Chatham built in 2005, he was disappointed in the quality and workmanship. Coming from a family with over 80 years in the construction industry and having a construction background himself, he knew he could do a much better job.

So, he founded Mijack Homebuilders. Mijack, based in Chatham, is a combination of the names of his sons – Michael and Jack. The “a” in the name was given a lavender hue when daughter Nicolina was born.

“We pay attention to details,” says Mike. “For example, instead of just using forced hot air, we’ll use a hydrocoil, which heats the air with hot water instead of a flame. This doesn’t dry out the air as much. We’ll soundproof interior walls and use solid doors, which a lot of builders don’t do.” He’s also now building smart homes that are not only controlled through phones, but by voice.

The high-quality homes Mijack creates are the epitome of luxury. Open concept floor plans, large kitchens with islands, finished third floors and basements, and primary bedroom suites are the norm. But, along with these standard necessities, what Mike really

CONTINUED >

Custom luxury pool room

Mike Giacopelli and his custom basketball court

loves to do is incorporate unique and exciting details, many of which he has done in his own home.

“I have a detached garage, and on top of it, we made a deck with a fire pit, television and some couches,” he says. “So we have an entertainment space in the yard, but also on the roof. You can see great sunsets from up there. Also, if you have different crowds, one group of say college kids can hang out up there while everyone else is down below.”

Under the garage, he built a man cave and under the house, a basketball court. He also installed a lagoonlike swimming pool with boulders and a lazy river, which was a promise to his son Michael.

In addition to severe food allergies, Michael developed PANS, which causes inflammation in the brain. “The virus actually attacks the brain and makes people basically go crazy,” says Mike. “He was only 8 years old at the time, and because he couldn’t sleep, I would lay with him on a mattress in the family room and we would watch Lucas Lagoons and the crazy pools that were being built. I told him once he got better we would build a pool just like that.”

Fortunately, he and his wife Yvette found a doctor who saved Michael’s life so he could enjoy that pool along with his entire family.

In addition to building homes, Mike is also opening a restaurant with long-time friends in Harvey Cedars on Long Beach Island. Called Azzurri, which means blue in Italian, it’s expected to open to the public this spring.

To discover how Mike and his team can create your luxury home, go to MijackHomebuilders.com. And if you’re ever on the Island, stop into Azzurri for a delicious meal.

Mike Giacopelli

Custom luxury home by Mijack

MARCH 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 9TH

New Jersey Ballet presents Leap Into Spring

Mayo Arts, Morristown, NJ | 7:30 PM

Leap into Spring features George Balanchine’s Concerto Barocco, considered the quintessential Balanchine ballet of its period. Concerto Barocco is music made visible as two elegant yet dynamic lead ballerinas each depict one of the instrumental soloists in a virtuosic double violin concerto. Plus additional works.

MARCH 13TH

Peter Frampton: Never Ever Say Never Tour

Mayo Arts in Morristown, NJ | 7:30 PM

Grammy award winner Peter Frampton (“Show Me the Way”, “Baby, I Love Your Way,” “I’m in You”) is heading back out on the road and bringing his “Never Ever Say Never” Tour to Morristown!

MARCH 14TH

Masters of Illusion

Mayo Arts in Morristown, NJ | 7:30 PM

As seen on CW! Featuring jaw-dropping grand illusions, acts of deception and hysterical comedy, Masters of Illusion stars the world's greatest award-winning magicians who combine fantasy, fervor and flair with magic created in front of your eyes.

MARCH 24TH

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis

Mayo Arts in Morristown, NJ | 7:00 PM

Guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel, one of the most respected composers and improvisers of 21st century jazz,

performs the New Jersey premiere of his Jazz at Lincoln Center-commissioned suite alongside the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis.

MARCH 29TH

Manhattan Comedy Night March

Mayo Arts in Morristown, NJ | 8:00 PM

Get some comic relief with our popular stand-up series showcasing the rising stars of comedy. Mature content, language. Adults only.

MARCH 30TH

Southern Rockfest featuring A Brother’s Revival and Classic Skynyrd Live

Mayo Arts in Morristown, NJ | 7:00 PM

A double bill that pays tribute to two of Southern rock's greatest bands. Classic Skynyrd Live, performed by Southern Steel, pays homage to the music of Lynard Skynyrd that has been loved by fans for generations. A Brother's Revival, led by former Allman Brothers bassist David “Rook” Goldflies, brings the music of the Allman Brothers to life.

TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE INTO A

ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

New York Times Best Selling Author and Netflix Producer, Dan Buettner, Inspires a Better Life Based on Research from the World’s Healthiest Cultures.

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!

Follow @DanBuettner and @BlueZones for full insights and visit BlueZones.com to shop exclusive products.

Primrose

PrimroseFlorhampark.com

Primrose

PrimroseMorristown.com

Primrose

PrimroseParamus.com

Primrose

PrimroseWestOrange.com