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Dream Kitchen

January 2013, Author: Patricia Mitrano

This morning I awoke as the sun tickled my cheek through the window overlooking South Mountain Reservation. The perfect temperature of the warmed hardwood floors danced through my toes as I gracefully slipped out of bed. I sauntered into my newly renovated, inviting, well-stocked kitchen and fondly reminisced about working with my hero, Mo Soliman of Curb Appeal Designs on our project.

I opened the sub-zero refrigerator to plan my meals for the day. For any menu I contemplated, every single ingredient was available and easily accessed thanks to the universal design ergonomic cabinetry doors and drawers.  For items not cooling, ripening or stored in this epicurean oasis, it was only a short walk outside to my organic garden. Immediately through the eight foot French doors past the breakfast nook, it offered up its succulent, plump flesh to marinate, chop, dice or saute. Curb Appeal Design was spot on for recommending this garden concept to enhance our property.

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The Choice: A Functional Bathroom or a Luxurious Sanctuary?

January 2013, Author: Patricia Mitrano

Almost twenty years ago we had the pleasure of visiting Calistoga, in California’s Napa Valley, known for its hot springs and cool wines and enjoyed the ultimate spa experience. From the natural spring waters, luxurious Turkish towels and enticing scents, our spa treatments were sensory sonatas. I treasure the memory of a perfectly relaxing week.

Fast forward to now, challenged by a stressful working situation and the inability to break away even for a lunch. The abuse I put my body through is unconscionable and I wonder if our next “vacation” will ever take place.

Diane Allen of West Orange’s A Mother’s Touch Massage advises that being kind to yourself is as important as being kind to those around you. We must “breathe deeply and honor the journey.” With her encouragement and my resolve to treat myself better in 2013, I’m not going to wait until my next massage or vacation to de-stress my soul but will do so as a daily ritual right in my own home.

Rethinking the bathroom, and converting it from a functional room into a private, luxurious retreat is a growing trend. The room that claims your most intimate “me” time is also the one that makes the most investment sense to renovate or remodel. Realtors will attest to the fact that it is money well spent.

Read more: The Choice: A Functional Bathroom or a Luxurious Sanctuary?

Six Months after Superstorm Sandy Hit NJ Many Homes Still Need Home Repair

April 2013, Author: John Mitrano

As the new hope of spring is upon us, the weather is finally cooperating enough for others to take action on some of the needed repairs to their damaged homes. Spring home improvements are an annual ritual, but with increased vigor this year. Not only to repair but to prepare for another round of changing climate storms within the next few months.

Although tragedy hit the Jersey Shore in the form of the unforgettable Superstorm Sandy, Northern NJ, Essex and Morris County homeowners are still feeling her effects with one report stating as many as 39,000 NJ families are still displaced.
For more information view Alternative Press Article

Late spring and early summer is the perfect weather to look up and reassess exterior damage. Shingles loosened? Flashing unsteady? Gutters wobbly? Look down and sear
ch for concrete slab movement or cracks, soil pitch along the foundation and bare patches on the lawn which are perfect spots for weeds to germinate and take over.

These are the classic things to look for in the spring that may cause structural damage to your home. The effects of water leaking issues left unattended can be substantial over time.

 Luckily many of these spring home repairs are also improvements that can make a significant impact in the curb appeal and value of your home. When choosing materials, look toward new, energy efficient materials that also have big payoffs. Maintenance free products, for siding, deck or walkway can make dramatic reductions in the amount of time spent taking care of your home in the long run. In turn, this will leave more time to enjoy your home and your famiy this summer.

Read more: Six Months after Superstorm Sandy Hit NJ Many Homes Still Need Home Repair