Bucks County Home & Garden 2015

BucksCountyHOME & GARDEN

Beautiful Kitchens• Backyard DesignsWater Gardens • Home Shows

Historic Farmhouse •Home Additions

ANNUAL 2015

Bucks Home & Garden 2015_Bucks Home & Garden Logo 12/4/14 9:54 AM

walters hg 14_Layout 1 12/4/14 8:39 AM Page 1

Michael J. Hutchinson Builder4 Generations of Excellence

215-968-3767www.michaelhutchinson.com

132 N. State St., Newtown, PA

A Newtown family business specializing in historic restorations, custom homes,

additions and renovations, new kitchens and baths

Years of hands-on experience and a work ethic of integrity

Contact us today to meet our team

Michael Hutchinson_Hutchinson 12/8/14 7:44 PM Page 1

640 N. Main Street • Doylestown, PA215.348.8116 • www.barb-lin.com

640 N. Main Street • Doylestown, PA215.348.8116 • www.barb-lin.com

Barb Lin page 7_Home Design 12/4/14 10:07 AM Page 1

Annual Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Home Accents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Home & Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Style . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Architectural Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Designing Outdoor Spaces . . . . . . . . 51

Our Custom Builders . . . . . . . . . . 61

Dream Kitchens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Natural Art. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Home & Garden Resource Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Advertising Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

ContentsBucks County Home & Garden GuideAnnual 2015 Edition

61

51

70

4 Bucks County Home & Garden Guide 2015

Contents_Home & Garden 12/4/14 10:07 AM Page 1

Bill Vandel h & G_Del Val window 12/4/14 9:30 AM Page 1


BUCKS COUNTYHOME & GARDEN

PublisherWilliam N. Waite

Executive EditorBob Waite

Asssistant EditorMary Beth Schwartz

Art DirectorBCM MEDIA, INC.

PhotographyRandl Bye

Advertising DirectorVicky M. Waite

Account ExecutivesKathie Bachmann

Lisa BridgeKathy Driver

Lisa Kruse

Bucks County Home & Garden Guide ispublished annually by BCM MediaCompany, Inc., 309 W. ArmstrongDrive, Fountainville, PA 18923. 215-766-2694. Single copy price of the BucksCounty Home & Garden Guide is $1.95.For single copy sales, call 215-766-2694or visit Buckscountymag.com.

Furniture with a future!

Hardwood furniture...Designed your way!

Ph: (610) 970-4340Rt. 100 | Pottstown, PA Midway between Rt. 422 & Rt. 23

www.alegacyfurniture.com

nitururF

e!e with a futurnitur

(610) 970-4340h: PA wn, PPAottstoRt. 100 | P

een Rt. 422 & Rt. 23 idway betwM

(610) 970-4340A

een Rt. 422 & Rt. 23

.alegacyfwwww.

v

e.comnitur.alegacyfur

Staff page hg15_Home Design 12/4/14 9:58 AM Page 1

Gemmi pg 2_Home Design 12/4/14 9:59 AM Page 1

You’ll Love ComingHome!

CREATIVE CONTRACTINGThe Difference is in the Design

584 Woodford Road, North Wales PA215-661-8517

www.creativecontracting.biz PA Reg. #0094

Project1_Layout 1 12/8/14 7:31 PM Page 1

The Natural Beauty of StoneLET HERTZ AND DUNN ENHANCE YOUR HOME, BOTH INDOORS AND

OUT WITH THE ELEGANCE AND NATURAL BEAUTY OF STONE

Hertz & DunnMasonry and LandscapesBucks County, PA • 215.534.6912

www.hertzanddunnmasonry.com

Patios • Walkways • Brick Ovens • Chimneys • Retaining walls Tile Work • Outdoor Fireplaces and Pits • Historic Restoration

PA 089649NJ 13VHO7068500

Hertz & Dunn_Hertz dunn 12/8/14 7:48 PM Page 1

Annual Calendar of Events

ANTIQUES

61st Annual Yardley CommunityCentre Antiques ShowJanuary 16-17: Over 20 antique dealers offer-ing a variety of items, including primitives,country and traditional furniture, china, glass,silver, textiles, jewelry, pottery, and dolls. Fri.11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Admission. Yardley Community Centre, 64South Main Street, Yardley, PA. www.yardley-communitycentre.com.

The 2015 Philadelphia Antiques ShowApril 11-14: Founded in 1962, this prestigiousshow is one of the longest running antiquesshows in the country. The show offers

diverse furnishings and decorative arts forboth the period and modern Americanhome. Admission. Pennsylvania ConventionCenter, 12th and Arch Streets, Philadelphia,PA. 610-902-2109; www.thephiladelphiaantiquesshow.org.

Antique CityApril 18-19: 250 fine booths feature varietiesof antiques and collectibles. Primitives,decoys, pop culture, postcards, amusements,and more will be on display. Admission. Freeparking. Lehigh University Fieldhouse, 123Goodman Drive, Bethlehem, PA.www.antiquecityshow.com.


Annual New Hope Garden Tour

Calendar_Bucks Home & Garden 12/4/14 10:08 AM Page 1

Bucks County Home & Garden Guide 2015 11

Washington Crossing Park, The Hibbs House

RenningersApril 23-25: Antique and Collector’sExtravaganzaJune 25-27: Antique and Collector’sExtravaganzaSeptember 24-26: Antique and Collector’sExtravaganza740 Noble Street, Kutztown, PA. 610-683-6848; www.renningers.net.

2015 Chester County Antiques ShowApril 24: The 33rd Annual Antiques Show isa benefit for the Chester County HistoricalSociety. Admission. The Phelps School,Malvern, PA. 610-692-4800; www.chestercohistorical.org.

Brandywine River Museum Antiques ShowMay: Outstanding furniture, glass, metalware,ceramics, folk art, quilts and other fineantiques from across the nation are featuredat this show. U.S. Route 1 and P.A. Route100, Chadds Ford, PA. 610-388-2700;www.brandywinemuseum.org.

Warren County Antiques Show &Vintage MarketplaceAugust 15-16: Spend a few days shopping inthe country for antiques. Along withantiques and collectibles, there will be lec-tures from respected historians, demonstra-



tions, and world class exhibitions. Don’t missthe live entertainment and food vendors.Admission. Free parking. Farmers’Fairgrounds, Harmony, NJ. 908-343-5873; www.warrencountyantiqueshow.com.

Tinicum Park Antiques ShowSeptember: Benefits the Historic PropertiesDivision of Bucks County Parks andRecreation. Admission. Tinicum Park, RiverRoad, Erwinna, PA. www.tinicumbucks.org.

Annual Delaware Antiques ShowNovember: Sixty of the country’s most dis-tinguished dealers present the finest offer-ings of American antiques and decorativearts, including furniture, paintings, rugs,ceramics, silver, jewelry, and more. Admission.Chase Center on the Riverfront,Wilmington, DE. 800-448-3883; www.winterthur.org.

CRAFTS

Sugarloaf Crafts FestivalMarch 20-22: More than 250 artisans displayand sell their creations in pottery, sculpture,glass, jewelry, fashion, home décor, furnitureand home accessories, and more. Admission.Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100Station Avenue, Oaks, PA. 800-210-9900;www.sugarloafcrafts.com.

Pennsylvania Guild of Fine CraftsmenFairsMay 8-10: Philadelphia, PAJune 14: Lancaster, PAJuly 25-26: Wilmington, DEOctober 9-11: Philadelphia, PAAdmission. 717-431-8706; www.pacrafts.org.

Byers’ Choice Annual AmericanArtisan ShowcaseMay 9-10: This juried show features about 70handcrafters, who create traditional crafts,or crafts based on a traditional method ordesign. The craft booths will be indoors, in alarge, well-lit expo facility within the Byers’Choice building. Admission. 4355 CountyLine Road, Chalfont, PA. 215-822-3274; www.byerschoicecraftshow.com.

Annual Bucks County Quilt ShowcaseJuly-September: Over 100 quilts of varioustypes will be on display at the Bucks CountyVisitor Center. Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.3207 Street Road, Bensalem, PA. 800-836-2825; www.visitbuckscounty.com.

Pennsylvania National QuiltExtravaganzaSeptember 17-20: Come see exhibits ofover 600 quilts and garments presented ingallery style. Over 200 vendor booths offercompleted quilts, as well as the equipmentand supplies needed to make them. TheGreater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100Station Avenue, Oaks, PA. 484-754-3976;www.phillyexpocenter.com.

Annual Philadelphia Museum of ArtContemporary Craft ShowNovember: This annual art event is for thebenefit of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.Funds raised are used to purchase works ofart and craft for the permanent collections,to fund conservation and publication proj-ects, and support exhibitions and educationprograms. Admission. PennsylvaniaConvention Center, 1101 Arch Street,Philadelphia, PA. 866-399-2393; www.philamuseum.org



Philadelphia Flower Show

New Hope Garden Tour



GARDENS

Bartram’s GardenVisit this National Historic Landmark andHouse, circa 1728. The grounds are free andopen to the public. Guided tours are avail-able of both the historic garden, as well asthe Bartram family home. Don’t miss TheBartram Nursery, complete with nativeplants and those discovered by the Bartramfamily. 54th Street and Lindbergh Boulevard,Philadelphia, PA. 215-729-5281; www.bartramsgarden.org.

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower PreserveThis is the perfect destination for seeing andlearning about the native plants of theDelaware Valley. The 134-acre preserve hasover 800 species of native plants in a natura-listic setting. Explore woods, meadows, apond, and Pidcock Creek, as well as a chang-ing collection of wildlife, birds, and wildflow-ers. Many educational programs are offeredyear-round. 1635 River Road, New Hope,PA. 215-862-2924; www.bhwp.org.

Camden Children’s GardenDesigned for children and families, theCamden Children’s Garden is a special placeto explore and discover the natural world.The four-acre garden provides horticulturalexperiences for creative and imaginative play.Educational programs are offered Aprilthrough December. Admission. 3 RiversideDrive, Camden, NJ. 856-356-8733;www.camdenchildrensgarden.org.

ChanticleerA 35-acre pleasure garden open to the pub-lic. The garden is a study of textures andforms, where foliage trumps flowers, the gar-

deners lead the design, and even the drinkingfountains are sculptural. Educational pro-grams are offered year round. 786 ChurchRoad, Wayne, PA. 610-687-4163; www.chanti-cleergarden.org.

Hortulus FarmA one-hundred acre 18th-century farmsteadand nursery operation. It was created bygarden and event designer Renny Reynoldsand garden writer and author Jack Staub.The gardens and museum are open fortours from May through October. 60Thompson Mill Road, Wrightstown, PA. 215-598-0050; www.hortulusfarm.com.

Jenkins Arboretum & GardensJenkins Arboretum features a collection oftrees, shrubs, wildflowers, and ferns in a nat-ural landscape. The landscape and plant col-lections provide sanctuary for native birds,insects, and wildlife. Educational programsare offered year round. 631 Berwyn BaptistRoad, Devon, PA. 610-647-8870; www.jenkinsarboretum.org.

Linden Hill GardensThe retail nursery and destination garden ofgarden designer Jerry Fritz. Educational pro-grams are offered year round. 8230 EastonRoad, Ottsville, PA. 610-847-1300; www.lindenhillgardens.com.

Longwood GardensExquisite flowers, majestic trees, and dazzlingfountains make up this estate created byPierre S. du Pont. Year round visitors canenjoy music and theatre events, firework andfountain displays, seasonal festivals, guidedtours, and educational programs. Admission.1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA.610-388-1000; www.longwoodgardens.org.



for distinctive homes

STICK_B

CHG1113

Collector Quality Furniture Since 1900

5 794 73250 967 0699

hendrixsonsfurniture.com



The Morris Arboretum at theUniversity of PennsylvaniaNinety-two acres of lush and colorful gar-dens await at The Morris Arboretum.Discover garden spaces and learn about13,000 labeled plants, trees, and flowers.More than 100 classes, tours, and lecturesare offered in spring and fall. Visitors also willenjoy changing exhibits. Admission. 100 EastNorthwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. 215-247-5777; www.morrisarboretum.org.

Mt. Cuba CenterThe Mt.Cuba Center is situated on 600acres. Its woodland wildflower gardens arerecognized as the region’s finest. Guideddocent tours are available by reservation.Admission. 3120 Barley Mill Road,Hockessin, DE. 302-239-4244; www.mtcuba-center.org.

The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore CollegeEncompassing over 300 acres ofSwarthmore College, Scott Arboretum fea-tures over 4,000 types of ornamentalsplants. The mission of the Arboretum is todisplay plants suited for home gardens in thisarea and to educate the public. Educationprograms are offered year round. Admission.500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA. 610-328-8025; www.scottarboretum.org.

Tyler ArboretumOne of the oldest and largest arboreta inthe Northeast, this year-round destinationhas 650 contiguous acres and 20 miles ofhiking trails. The Arboretum’s collectionsinclude rare plant specimens, ancient trees,and historic buildings. Educational programsare offered year round. 515 Painter Road,Media, PA. 610-566-9134; www.tylerarboretum.org.

Tyler Formal GardensBuilt in the early 1930s, the gardens reflectearly twentieth-century horticulture, andoriginally were influenced by larger Italianand French gardens. Divided into compart-ments and levels, separated by shrubs andstone walls, the gardens include manicuredlawns, water fountains, gravel pathways, anespalier, and bronze sculpture. Bucks CountyCommunity College, 275 Swamp Road,Newtown, PA. 215-968-8000;www.bucks.edu.

WinterthurFounded by Henry Francis du Pont,Winterthur is the premier museum ofAmerican decorative arts. The estate fea-tures a research library, as well as a 60-acrenaturalistic garden. Winterthur’s 1,000 acresencompass rolling hills, streams, meadows,and forests. Educational programs areoffered year round. Admission. 5105 KennettPike, Wilmington, DE. 302-888-4600;www.winterthur.org.

2015 PHS Philadelphia Flower ShowFebruary 28-March 8: This year’s flowershow celebrates the movies with Lights,Camera, Bloom! Admission. PennsylvaniaConvention Center, 12th and Arch Streets,Philadelphia, PA. 215-988-8800; www.the-flowershow.com.

SEPOS International Orchid Show and SaleApril 24-26: This orchid extravaganza willfeature spectacular exhibits showcasingbeautiful, sometimes bizarre, often fragrant,and always interesting orchids in full bloom.There also will be growing supplies, giftware,books, photographs, and orchid plants.Lectures and tours are scheduled.



1057 N . E A S TO N R D, D OY L E S TO W N , PA | B U C K S CO U N T RYG A R D E N S . CO M | # PA 020339

G A R D E N S

Create a lasting impression...

It’s simple. We design. We build. We manage. We guarantee.

Outdoor spaces created just for you.Featuring Walpole Outdoors® low-maintenance architectural elements.

STONE, BRICK & FLAGSTONE WALKS, WALLS & PATIOS DECKS, ARBORS & PERGOLAS FIREPITS & FIREPLACES OUTDOOR KITCHENS GARDEN PLANTINGS COLOR PLANTINGS SPECIMEN TREES WATER GARDENS

CONTAINER GARDENS CUSTOM GARDEN FENCING LANDSCAPE LIGHTING SEASONAL MAINTENANCE

Call today for a complimentary consultation~215.766.7800



Admission. Academy of Natural Sciences ofDrexel University, 1900 Benjamin FranklinParkway, Philadelphia, PA. 215-299-1000;www.ansp.org.

Garden TourJune: The Bedminster Land Conservancy’sgarden tour allows visitors to experienceprivate gardens. See how a private yard canbe transformed into a garden oasis.Admission. 215-795-2352; www.bedminsterlandconservancy.org.

2015 Garden Tour du Jour: Throughthe Eyes of a ChildJune 6: See private Bucks County gardens onthis annual tour. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advanceadmission. Sponsored by the New HopeHistorical Society. 215-862-5652 or visitthem on Facebook.

Annual Hidden Gardens ofLambertville TourJune 13: This annual self-guided walking tourallows visitors to enjoy elegant and unique“hidden gardens” in the backyards of resi-dents in Lambertville, NJ. The tour begins atThe Kalmia Clubhouse, 39 York Street,Lambertville, and showcases a variety of gar-den types and plants, from eclectic to formal,large and small. Net proceeds further TheKalmia Club’s mission and assist with itscommunity outreach and annual scholarshipprograms. Admission. 609-397-2537;www.kalmiaclub.org.

Annual Bucks Beautiful Kitchen &Garden TourJune 14: This self-guided tour features sixBucks County home. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rainor shine. Advance admission. 215-340-3639;www.bucksbeautiful.org.

St. Mary Community League’s AnnualKitchen & Garden TourOctober: This annual kitchen and gardentour is a must see. Funds from the tour ben-efit St. Mary Medical Center. Advance admis-sion. 610-751-7874; http://communityleague-stmary.org

HOUSE & HOME

American Consumer ShowsJanuary 9-11: Greater Philadelphia SpringHome Show (King of Prussia, PA)January 30-February 1: SuburbanPennsylvania Spring Home Show (Lancaster,PA)March 20-22: Bucks & Montgomery SpringHome Show (Warminster, PA)888-433-3976; www.acshomeshow.com.

Philadelphia Home ShowJanuary 17-19, 23-25: The 2015 Home Showfeatures guest appearances by DIY celebri-ties, along with designed rooms and theCooking Stage. The Xfinity Experience Stagefeaturing presentations on remodeling, reno-vation, organizing, décor, gardening, and out-door projects. Admission. PennsylvaniaConvention Center, 1101 Arch Street,Philadelphia, PA. 855-856-7469; www.phillyhomeshow.com.

Designer Craftsmen & Historic HomeShowFebruary 6-8: The ultimate show for restor-ing, renovating, and preserving our Nation’sarchitectural heritage. Admission. Valley ForgeCasino Resort Convention Center, 1160 1stAvenue, King of Prussia, PA.www.historichomeshows.com.

furnishingrays, helpVista

nishingrays, help

Wista

nishingrays, help

nishing

DELAWA

15 S. Pe


dvtint.com



Suburban Home and Garden Show

February 19-22: Visit this annual show for

decorating and remodeling ideas, learn more

about companies, and stroll through gardens

by area landscapers. Admission. Greater

Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station

Avenue, Oaks, PA. 484-754-EXPO;

www.phillyexpocenter.com.

Bucks County Designer House &

Gardens

April-May: This show house features the

work of local landscapers and designers. It is

an annual fundraiser to benefit the Village

Improvement Association of Doylestown to

support Doylestown Hospital and V.I.A. com-

munity projects. Villa d’ Braccia, Chalfont, PA.

www.buckscountydesignerhouse.org.

The 21st Annual Philadelphia

Invitational Furniture Show

April 10-12: This annual show highlights arti-

san quality furniture and furnishings to suit

all tastes. Admission. The 23rd Street

Armory, 22 South 23rd Street, Philadelphia,

PA.www.philaifs.com.

Newtown Open House Tour

December: This annual event gives partici-

pants a chance to tour many private local

homes and historic buildings decorated for

the holidays. The Half Moon Inn (Court Inn)

will feature open hearth cooking, Colonial

music, and period reenactors. Refreshments

of mulled cider and cheese will be served

throughout the day. Advanced admission.

215-968-4004; www.newtownhistoric.org.

AmericanHomesteadKitchens, Ltd.

Kitchens

Vanities

Custom Cabinetry

5016 Mechanicsville Road

Mechanicsville, PA

215-794-0549

Contractor Reg#PA006221

www.americanhomesteadkitchens.com


The best of nature...the best of lifeComplete Landscape Design & Installation

Water Gardens, Ponds, Streams • Patios • Historic RestorationsLandscape Lighting • Stone Walls • Walks • Professional Design

FLOWING SPRINGS LANDSCAPE DESIGN426 Conestoga Road, Malvern, PA • 610-408-0739

www.flowingspringsdesign.com

Flowing Springs_Home Design 12/5/14 8:18 AM Page 1

… at American Homestead Kitchens, Ltd.we specialize in kitchen and cabinetry design,keeping our focus and attention on the imme-diate project at hand. We stay up-to-date andeducated regarding current trends and avail-able products pertaining solely to the kitchenand cabinet industry. Contact AmericanHome Kitchens, Ltd., 5016 MechanicsvilleRd., Mechanicsville, PA;215-794-0549;www.americanhomesteadkitchens.com.

Home Accents


... Maison Provence Provence Hickory featuresa time worn surface texture that highlightsknots, scrapes and subtle chatter. This hardwoodfloor is designed to stand the test of time whileretaining its beauty. Available at Holland FloorCovering, 35 Swamp Road, Newtown, PA;215-357-0909; www.hollandfloor.com.

s

... every single shutter made by ourartisans and craftsmen inMontgomeryville, PA is made tothe exact size, style and specifica-tions that you need. From the trimto the color to the hardware, eachdetail uniquely reflects you andyour home. Contact Timberlanetoday at www.timberlane.com;800-250-2221.

ss

Accents dept_094-095bchgwtr07 12/5/14 8:21 AM Page 1

… let Father and Son Builders refinish yourbasement. Depending on your family's needs,it can be your playroom, game room, mediaroom, home bar, storage space or family room.Contact Father and Son Builders today.P h i l a d e l p h i a , PA ; 8 6 6 - 6 4 4 - 7 8 0 0 ;www.fatherandsonbuilders.com.

s

... enlarge your outdoor living spaceand enjoy the outdoors comfortably witha Perfecta Retractable Awning fromJMT Awnings. Select from over 500fabric choices. For more informationcontact us at 215-659-5239;www.jmtawnings.com.

...…this Summit stainless steel S-660 built-ingrill has a 769 Square inch total cooking area

and 60,000 BTU-per-hour input. It has sixburners and has a front access stainless steelgrease tray and catch pan. This along with

many other style grills are available at Gratesand Grills, 105 South Main Street, Dublin,PA; 267-870-7013; www.gratesngrills.com.

... specializing in kitchen and bath design,with over 25 years of experience, they canassist in all aspects of your home improve-ment. Whether space planning, updates orfull renovations, from design to imple-mentation, contact Sweetbriar Cabinetry& Design, 8330 Easton Rd., Bldg. D,Ottsville, PA; 610-847-5851;www.sweetbriarcabinetry.com.

ss

s



24 Bucks County Home & Garden 2015

... As one of the largest heating oilproviders in the country, with over 100years of experience, total customer satis-faction is our #1 priority. Being a fullservice heating oil provider means thatwhatever the weather, whatever thetime, even in the worst winter storms,we will deliver your oil. Contact us at610-745-6942; www.petro.com.

Experience the possibilities of beautiful, lifetimefurniture for your family. Alegacy Furniture

specializes in hardwood furniture, all made inUSA. Bench crafted of solid American hard-woods, your furniture is made to order with

your choice of wood, color, and hardware.=Masterfully constructed, not mass produced. It

is furniture that your family will treasure.Contact us at 610-970-4340 or online at

www. alegacyfurniture.com.

...come in & browse our historic 7,000 sq ftrepurposed building filled with some of thebest finds in vintage & antique furniture,clocks, linens, clothing, pottery, porcelains,glassware, toys, garden items, lighting, fineart, prints, jewelry, books, memorabilia,advertising and more. We have multiple ven-dors & we also feature items on consignment.Call 215-598-8830 or visit us online atwww.makefieldcollectionantiques.com.

... Tobias Design offers unique kitchen and bathdesigns. Lisa Tobias makes the design process not

only manageable, but dare we say, a joy. So let usdesign and bring your dream to life,

beautifully.Contact us at 609-466-1445 or contactus online at www.tobiasdesignllc.com

s

s

s



Home & Garden

William Draper Cabinetmaker isBucks County’s premier, full-service custom cabinetry design

firm. From space-planning and design to thefinest products and installation services, weoffer our clients a holistic approach thatbalances your lifestyle and budget. Our threedistinct lines of cabinetry, award-winningdesigners, and project management servicesset our showroom apart from the competition.

WILLIAM DRAPER CABINETMAKERBuckingham Green, 4950 York Road

Buckingham, PA • 215-794-9198Williamdraperinc.com

GEMMI CONSTRUCTION, INC.4936 York Road

Buckingham, PA • 215-340-4600Gemmiconstruction.com

Gemmi Construction, Inc. isa full service, remodelingfirm, specializing in

Custom Renovations and additionsfounded by NARI CertifiedRemodeler, John Gemmi. Withover 20 years experience, John’s skilland pride in his craft are buildingelegant and comfortable livingspaces all over Bucks andMontgomery Counties that will beas appreciated in a century as theyare today. Our commitment toexceeding our customers’ expecta-tions is evident in all the work wedo. From our first meeting to thefinal walk through, you are an essen-tial part of the team.

Home Design 14_Home Design 12/4/14 7:34 PM Page 1

Home. There is no place like it. Welcoming arms embrace, nut-meg and cinnamon fill the air, holiday pies cool on the kitchencounter, a roast turkey waits to be carved, and every available

platter and bowl is filled to the brim with recipes handed down over gen-erations. It is a scene that is revered and repeated across the country asAmericans gather to share the many memories and blessings of this specialholiday rooted in family, home, and harvest.

Holiday traditions bring families together with joyful anticipation andcommitment – qualities we consider hallmarks at Superior Woodcraft. Wethank our clients for allowing Superior Woodcraft to build a beautiful, longlasting, environment that plays a role in family traditions.

Superior Woodcraft, Inc.Award Winning Cabinetry for Extraordinary People

160 North Hamilton Street • Doylestown, PA 18901215-348-9942 • www.superiorwoodcraft.com

PA758 / HIC reg# 13VH04269300

SUPERIOR WOODCRAFT, INC,Fine Handcrafted Cabinetry


1107 Old School Road• Quakertown, PA 18951Phone 267.377.5499 (fax) 914.255.9466

www.pennsylvaniarenewables.com

Green Energy Specialists

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

MUNICIPALWe design, install, and service

Renewable Energy(RE) Systems

Design and Install

-Solar PV Panels-Solar Hot-Water & Air-Passive Solar-Wind Turbines-Geo-Thermal-Back-Up SystemsEnergy Audits / Carbon FootprintReduction PlansPA Qualified installers and Aggregatorsof AEC/SRECState / Federal Rebate, Credit, GrantApplicationsGuaranteed InstallationsIn-house engineering (PE) NABCEPEL CertificatePhoto Rendering of installed systemsWind & Solar site surveysCarbon Footprint & Greenhouse Gasreduction plansProject payback projections

The core objective of PennsylvaniaRenewables is to provide customerswith the same high value renewableenergy solutions that Pat has de-signed and proven for himself.

PennsylvaniaRenewables, Inc.

WE PROVIDE

EXPERTISE,

INFORMATION,

AND SUPPORT

TO ANYONE

INTERESTED IN

USING RENEW-

ABLE ENERGY.

penna renewables_Pennsylvania Renewables 12/8/14 7:38 PM Page 1

HarrisComfort.comHarrisComfort.comBRISTOL

215-788-4596BRISTOL

215-788-4596NEWTOWN215-968-7477NEWTOWN215-968-7477

Fourth

Generation

of Superior

Service!

PA LIC: 22 ▲ NJ: 13VH06306900

24 Hour Emergency Service

Air Conditioning ▲ Fuel Oil ▲ Propane ▲ Gas ▲ Electric

Whole House Backup

Generators

Heating & CoolingWhole House Backup

Generators

Heating & Cooling


Bill Vandegrift, Inc presents theSub-Zero and Wolf brands inthe environment in which they

are meant to be experienced,showcasing the breadth of productsand offering the opportunity tointeract with the appliances much likeone would in a home kitchen. See thefull model line-up from Sub-Zero andWolf incorporated side-by-side in areal setting, helping you to visualizehow these two brands mightcomplement one another in your ownhome.

Delaware Valley Window Tintspecializes in window glassfilms. These films make less

glare, reduce in-home fading, and canmake homes more energy efficient.The 99 percent UV light reductionresults in protection for furniture,carpet, draperies, and wood flooring.Increased shatter resistance results inincreased safety for the family.

BILL VANDEGRIFT, INC.450 East Butler Ave., New Britain, PA

215-345-5616Billvandegrift.com

DELAWARE VALLERYWINDOW TINT

15 Penn St., Hatboro, PA215-672-1041

Home



Vacations have never beeneasier than owning acottage in Schnabels’

Woods, a private gatedcommunity of individually ownedrecreational cabins. Convenientlylocated and affordable, cottagescome in a variety of sizes andstyles, all with access to thebeautiful Tohickon Stream. It ’spristine, because there are nopermanent homes or rentals.Enjoy acres of wooded beauty,commune with nature or donothing at all, here in yourcottage, in the woods by the water.

SCHNABELS’ WOODSBucks County, PA

215-536-6255schnabelswoods.com

Superior Woodcraft handcraftsheirloom–quality customcabinetry with environmental

sound practices and materials;creating a locally made, sustainableproduct of lasting value, utility, beautyand harmony. Our cabinetry istraditionally handcrafted from onlythe finest woods from properlymanaged forests, with the bestquality components andexceptional finishes; providingyou quality, value and peace ofmind. Family owned andoperated for over 46 years.

SUPERIOR WOODCRAFT160 North Hamilton Street • Doylestown, PA

215-348-9942Superiorwoodcraft.com

& Garden



Hendrixson’s Furniture hasbeen helping homeownerscreate beautiful homes for

over 40 years. We offer a variety ofpersonalized services to make thispossible. Our designers are happy tooffer each of our customers a compli-mentary design consultation in ourstore or in your home. Each designplan begins by creating a floor layoutto establish guidelines in the selectionof your furniture. By taking intoaccount your personal tastes and thecircumstances of your existing livingspace, our designers can help you tointegrate the existing furniture youintend to keep, and develop the bestaesthetic and functional plan for yourroom.

Walter’s Nursery, Inc., a full servicelandscape design build firm, hasbeen devoted to enhancing the

beauty of Bucks and Hunterdon counties since1930. Our college-educated design staff canguide you through the project, from conceptualdrawings to the completion of your garden. Theuse of Walter’s on staff horticulturists, masons,and integrated pest management specialists willall assure that your garden will endure for yearsto come. Call 215-297-5860 to make anappointment with a designer.

WALTER’S NURSERY, INC.152 River Road • Point Pleasant, PA

215-297-5860Waltersnurseryinc.com

HENDRIXSON’S FURNITURERt 263, Furlong, PA

215-794-7325Lehigh Valley 610-967-0699

hendrixsonsfurniture.com

Home & Garden



The First Thing We Build is Trust

ROLF SCHROEDERGENERAL CONTRACTORS

Award WinningKitchen & Bath Specialists

www.rolfschroedergc.com215-672-0829 PA#3699



Home

DEAR GARDEN ASSOCIATES, INC.215-766-8110Deargarden.com

At Dear GardenAssociates, Inc., wecreate and maintain

amazing outdoor living spacesof the highest quality possibleand are as dedicated to theclients we work with as we areto the gardens we create. Ratherthan subscribing to a formulathat imposes a trademark “look”to each project, we rely on thearchitecture of the home, itsenvironment and our clients’input for the basis of ourinnovative designs.

You’ll love cominghome!Bob DuBree,Bucks-Mont NARI

Certified Master Remodelerhas owned and operated hisbusiness for 26 years. He andhis wife, Kim, a certifiedinterior designer, and theirteam, have won multipledesign awards and will helpyou turn your dream into areality. We don’t just remodel-we reinvent the living spacesof your home–and we workclosely withyou through theentire process.Remodelingcan sometimes be a dauntingtask. Show us yourinspirations – we are here tohelp.

CREATIVE CONTRACTING584 Woodford Road • North Wales, PA

215-661-8517Creativecontracting.biz


COOPERMECHANICAL7696 Easton Road

Ottsville, PA610-847-2441Coopermech.com

& Garden

From our very beginning in 1976, we at CooperMechanical have followed a time-tested principle -“Customer trust is earned through superior perform-

ance.” By installing quality brands in a professional manner ata fair price, we have continued to earn customer loyalty. Thatloyalty has helped us grow to where we are today. Our cus-tomer driven support gives us a solid direction for today andtomorrow.


Barb-Lin Carpet One, familyowned and operated, has beenproviding excellence in the floor

covering business since 1948. Our qual-ity and service are what the communityhas been able to depend on. The floor-ing industry has undergone manychanges in recent years. Barb-LinCarpet One is one of the few carpetretailers who have met this challenge byaligning themselves with major brandssuch as Karastan, Bigelow, Lees, Pergo,Mannington, and Armstrong just tomention a few. We invite you to visitour showroom and let our professionalstaff answer any questions you mayhave about flooring.

BARB-LIN CARPET ONE640 North Main Street • Doylestown, PA

215-348-8116Barb-lin.com



Home

At Hertz & Dunn Masonry andLandscapes we build lastingrelationships with our clients

based on trust, fairness, quality of workand price. It is quality of our craft thatcustomers hire us for, but it ’s ourreleationship and work ethic that inspirethem to recommend us to theirneighbor. We know that after our firstjob at your home, you will become alifelong customer.

HERTZ & DUNN MASONRY AND LANDSCAPES

PO Box 256 • New Hope, PA

215-534-6912

The companymotto “we powerit all” means that

our expertise inrenewable energy, is notlimited to one design.We understand andhave used solar electric(PV ), solar hot water,solar hot air, wind,geothemal, HVAC,LED lighting/control,and passive solardesigns. We guaranteethat our systems aredone right the first time,every time.PENNSYLVANIA RENEWABLES, INC.

1107 Old School Road • Quakertown, PA

215-377-5499Pennsylvaniarenewables.com



& Garden

Flowing Springs is made up ofhighly experienced craftsmen whoplan and build unique exterior

environments for entertaining, familygatherings, special events and activities,and peace and tranquility. The companyutilizes the finest natural materials andplants to create new outdoor elements,like custom pations, stone walls, walksand water gardens.

FLOWING SPRINGS LANDSCAPE DESIGNS, INC.426 Contestoga Road • Malvern, PA

610-408-0739

Year-round comfort.Service. Value. Security.Convenience. You can

have it all with Harris Comfort.For over 50 years and fourgenerations, the Harris familyhas been providing the regionwith top quality fuel oil, alongwith expert residential andcommercial heating, cooling,and backup generatorinstallations. With every pieceof equipment, every drop offuel, we also deliver unyieldingdedication to full service,personal attention and yourtotal comfort.

HARRIS COMFORT215-788-4596215-968-7477

Harriscomfort.com



When you are in need of ageneral contractor, BucksCounty builder Michael

Hutchinson is one of the area’sfinest. His strong eye for detail,coupled with intolerance formediocrity and decades of superiorcraftsmanship, puts Michael in aclass of his own. From residentialrenovations to commercialconstruction, Michael Hutchinsonbrings the same set of enthusiasmand pride to every job. A legacy ofbuilding excellence in Bucks Countyhas been handed down through fourgenerations, and Mike hascontinued to delight his customerswith his unique style.

MICHAEL J. HUTCHINSON BLDR.132 N. State St., • Newtown, PA

215-968-3767Michaelhutchinson.com

HomeB

ucks Country Gardens isa nationally recognizedaward winning home,

garden and landscape center. Inaddition to greenhouse,nursery and lawn & gardendepartments you’ll find patiofurniture, boutique, homedécor and a seasonalChristmas shop featured atthe garden center inPlumstead Township. TheLandscape Design/BuildDivision installs projectsthroughout the Delaware andLehigh Valley areas and isproud to be the Bucks Countybusiness partner for WalpoleOutdoors.

BUCKS COUNTRY GARDENS1057 N. Easton Rd., • Doylestown, PA

215-766-7800Buckscountrygardens.com



From Custom Homes andRemodeling to Millwork andCommercial Renovations,

there is distinctive American characterin everything we build. We placesignificant emphasis on qualitycontrol from start to finish and werefuse to cut corners — every detail ofevery project has the unique touch ofour craftsmen. Each carpenter,mason, plumber or electrician whoworks with us has dedicatedsignificant time and effort to theperfection of their individual craft.

J.R. MAXWELL BUILDERS, INC.Doylestown, PA215-345-1953

JRMaxwellBuilders.com

& Garden

Exceptional Cabinetry Design & Craftmanship

Cabinetry and Design Inc

8330 Easton RD • Bldg. D Ottsville, PA 610-847-5851 • sweetbriarcabinetry.com

Contractor reg# PA079708


Green Energy

According to the U.S. Department of

Energy, solar energy is the most abundant

energy resource on earth—173,000 ter-

awatts of solar energy strike our planet

continuously. The demand for solar power

in the United States is at an all-time high. And as prices

continue to fall, solar energy is increasingly becoming an

economical energy choice. Here in Bucks County, home-

owners and businesses call upon the expertise of

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc. for their renewable energy

needs.

Headquartered in Haycock Township, Pennsylvania

Renewables, Inc. is owned by Pat Noto. “Our company

motto is “We power it all.” Our expertise in renewable ener-


Homeowners and businesses alike call uponPennsylvania Renewables, Inc. to meet their renewableenergy needs • by Mary Beth Schwartz

Home

Home Dept_home & garden guide 12/5/14 8:34 AM Page 1


gy is not limited to one productor one design. We understandand have used solar photo-voltaics (SV), as well as solar hotwater, solar hot air, wind tur-bines, geothermal HVAC, LEDlighting and control, and passivesolar designs,” Noto says.

Noto has 25 years of con-struction experience, and 15years of renewable energyinstallation experience. He hasworked on Bucks County andMontgomery County residen-tial, commercial, and municipalrenewable energy systems,including design, installation,and service. “Our engineers canprovide a photo rendering ofwhat your fully installed systemmight look like. We can deter-

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc. specializes in renewableenergy. Shown on these pages are solar panel projects, aswell as a combo solar and wind system.

continued on page 91


100-Year Masons

Since the invention of tools, man has used his craft tobuild structures and artwork from stones found innature. Stone masons created great monuments,European cathedrals, even entire cities from rock. Due totheir craftsmanship, some of these structures still survive

today—the pyramids in Egypt, England’s Stonehenge, and theParthenon in Greece. Here in Bucks County, we have our own 100-year masons, Chris Hertz and Jim Dunn, of Hertz & Dunn Masonryand Landscapes.

“By using the all-but-lost methods of the masons of a time past,we are able to create new masterpieces that look centuries old, yetfully functional with modern twists. We also bring new life to oldand deteriorating structures by giving them a little love and care and


Hertz & Dunn Masonry and Landscapes creates customwalkways, brick ovens, even stone art using traditionalmethods and materials • by Mary Beth Schwartz

Style

STYLE Dept_home & garden guide 12/5/14 8:38 AM Page 1


In Solebury, Hertz & Dunn Masonry and Landscapescreated a custom brick oven with an Argentinianwoodburning grill on the side.



THE COOPER STORY...

A TRADITION OF QUALITYFrom our very beginning in 1976, we at Cooper Mechanical have followed a time-tested

principle - "Customer trust is earned through superior performance."

By installing quality brands in a professional manner at a fair price, we have continued

to earn customer loyalty. That loyalty has helped us grow to where we are today. Our

customer driven support gives us a solid direction for today and tomorrow.

DIVERSE PRODUCTS INCLUDE:

* Geothermal Systems

* Radiant Heat Systems

* Boilers, Heat Pumps, and Central Air Conditioning

systems

* Budget Friendly Financing

* 24-hour Emergency Service

* Fully Stocked Retail Parts Counter

Custom Duct Work and Fabrication

7696 Easton Road • Ottsville, PA 18942610.847.2441 • www.coopermech.com



restoring the original mason’s work. I just hopethere is a stone mason in 200 years willing to putthe same love into our work as we do for thosethat built before us,” says Co-owner Chris Hertz.

“Masonry is all about patience. This amongother reasons is why I believe it is a dying artform and trade of the past. One must be able tolook at each stone and determine the best way toset it to best bring out the beauty in it. It is moreof an art than most believe. You must see whatthe stone will give you rather than force it to dosomething it just will not do. You must be will-ing to take your time with each stone laid,because in the end, it really will make a differ-ence,” Hertz says.

In business since 2012, Hertz & DunnMasonry and Landscapes has both commercialand residential clients in Bucks County, as wellas Hunterdon County in New Jersey. Themasonry team has 20 years of combined experi-ence in quality natural stone masonry and ele-gant landscapes.

According to Chris Hertz, they can takealmost any aspect of an outdoor living area andbuild it out of stone. Stone patios can be createdusing popular materials of bluestone, oak sand-stone, rainbow sandstone, or brownstone.Walkways can be built out of materials with nomortar or with a concrete slab underneath and asetting bed of mortar. Retaining and sitting wallsare another option, either stacked dry or set withmortar. Fire features can be built, such as out-door fire pits, fireplaces, woodburningArgentinian grills, outdoor counterspaces withgrill set-ins, and stone detailing around outdoorkitchens.

When building their high-end stone cre-ations, Hertz & Dunn Masonry and Landscapesstrive to use green practices. “Along with the use

of reclaimed stone and proper disposal of wastematerial, we are implementing the use of historiclime-based mortar rather than Portland-basedmortar where possible. This is the same asmasons have been doing since the dawn ofmasonry. Not only is lime-based mortar theproper product for most historic masonryrestoration, but it also is a carbon sink. Duringthe process of manufacturing, there is much lesscarbon output than that of Portland cement.Also, as it cures, it removes carbon from theatmosphere through the chemical reaction,”Hertz says.

The quality stonework of Hertz & DunnMasonry and Landscapes is often paired withlow-maintenance native plant series. “Ratherthan import exotic plantings, we are turning ourfocus to the native species. We take what will sur-vive and thrive locally and pair them with othersthat will amplify their natural beauty. We arefinding that clients are trending to this approachof working with Mother Nature and all shethrows at us, rather than battling the differentelements,” Hertz says.

According to Hertz, they have a list of land-scape services. There is installation and plantingsof beds, raised planters, vegetable gardens, trees,and shrubs. Advanced year-round planting bedmaintenance, weeding, mulching, and seasonalpruning are offered. They even take care of stormdamage cleanup, as well as fall and spring clean-ing, leaf, and yard waste removal.

If you ask Chris Hertz what his favorite proj-ect is, he will tell you about a custom brick ovenwith an Argentinian woodburning grill on theside. It was built in the yard of a historic stonehouse in Solebury. “The oven was fully enclosedwith old recycled stones from a barn that was

continued on page 59


t


ArchitecturalDESIGN

The younger we are, the more we are likely to make bold

design choices, such as blending bright colors with wallpaper.

Nearly two-thirds of homeowners want to create a living room in

the master bedroom, complete with seating, a fireplace, even a

mini refrigerator. These are just some of the findings released

from a recent survey conducted by Houzz, an online portal for

design and construction professionals. Here in Bucks County,

interior designer Celeste Callaghan of Callaghan Interior Design

has been planning the entire interior environment for homeown-

ers and businesses for 30 years.

“The design of the interior environment falls somewhere

between an art and a science, and it my goal to bring that balance

into your home. Like the endless array of hues and colors, we are

not bound to a particular period or style. The possibilities are

infinite, the collaboration process, a team effort. It is our desire to

design a space that is a reflection of you, and only you. When you

work with us, you are an equal member of a design team that is

as enthusiastic about what they do, as you are about creating an

environment that suits your individual style. Ready to meet any

new project and challenge, we believe in open and honest com-

munication throughout the design process,” says Founder Celeste

Callaghan.

Celeste Callaghan of Callaghan Interior

Design goes beyond interior decorating in

creating an interior environment

BY MARY BETH SCHWARTZ

Designer feature_Bucks County Designers REV/fdq 12/5/14 8:42 AM Page 1


“We work to meet your needs, offering

all elements of design from detailed plans to

construction coordination to installation of

furniture, working closely with a number of

architects, landscape architects, contractors,

as well as other ancillary consultants toward

achieving your ultimate design goals,”

Callaghan says.

For one client, Callaghan Interior

Design worked on multiple interior spaces.

In the foyer area of the home, Callaghan

effectively blended antique pieces with the

new. “We found a painting and a buffet at

an antique show. We also located an antique

grandfather clock and Oriental rug,”

Callaghan says. In the same home, a mag-

nificent stone laden rustic kitchen was

designed for a professional cook. Among

the details in this kitchen were a beehive

oven for baking fresh bread, and counter-

tops of soapstone and honed marble.

Another client wanted to work on

spaces in her Contemporary cottage. “The

kitchen was open to the entire dining seat-

ing area. Adjacent to the kitchen was a but-

ler’s pantry configuration to conceal the less

attractive appliances that we use daily. The


kitchen featured some unique stainless steel

finishes. For example, there were stainless

steel panels on the side of the island,”

Callaghan says.

The same house featured a bathroom

that was serene and natural. “In the bath-

room, we used a freestanding soaking tub

with air jets. The shower had a glass door and

bench. The wood floor was extended into the

room. We used the same stone that was in the

shower on the countertop and on the wall

behind. There also were wall mounted

faucets,” Callaghan says.

A third new home construction project

by Callaghan Interior Design was designed

for a family of five. Celeste Callaghan reveals

some of the specifics of this project. “The

owner’s vision included a clay tile roof, eight-

foot fieldstone walls, and pine flooring. All of

the millwork and custom cabinetry was creat-

ed by Village Handcrafted Cabinetry. There

was a mudroom complete with cubbies for

adults and children. In the stair hall, a custom

lighting fixture was created by Charlie’s Girl

Lighting. The master bath included a custom

vanity. There was a Calcutta marble counter-

Previous pages, Callaghan Interior Design combined the old

with the new. Opposite, three rooms that were part of a

whole home design. Here are pictured the master bath,

mudroom, and kitchen. Above, a modern home with an

open space plan. The kitchen overlooked the dining area

with Nakashima furnishings.




top with honed Oasis Blue travertine floor-

ing. Their study included a sit-down bar with

an overhead glass bottle display, stained pine

coffered ceiling, split brick herringbone fire-

place interior, and antiqued mirror inset. A

custom mantle was designed with a soapstone

surround. In the kitchen, we used butternut

cabinets with a hand-applied stain on the

perimeter with soapstone tops. There was a

walnut cooking island with a marble top,”

Callaghan says.

A fourth project for Callaghan Interior

Design was to take an existing 1979 structure

and create a one-bedroom, open plan, mid-

century modern home making use of sliding

window panels to capture natural lighting. “In

the entry foyer, there was a living edge bench

crafted by the owner’s son, which sat below a

Shoji screen, which concealed a study. The

interior garden courtyard was accessed by

sliding doors as was the entire rear of the

home. The kitchen cabinets are horizontal

grain maple with quartz tops and glass back-

splash. The kitchen overlooked a dining area

with a Nakashima table and chairs. In the liv-

ing room, there was a stone fireplace with

custom cabinetry that extended into the adja-

cent study. The cable rail lead to a loft space,”

Callaghan says.

Callaghan Interior Design is located at

3384 Street Road, Doylestown, PA 18902.

Their phone number is 215-297-8900. You

can visit them online at www.callaghaninteri

ordesign.com.

MARY BETH SCHWARTZ IS A FREELANCE EDITORWHO FREQUENTLY CONTRIBUTES TO REGIONAL

PUBLICATIONS.


E

DesigningOUTDOOR SPACESThree Bucks County landscape architects use their creativity to transform outdoor landscapes into beautifuloutdoor living spaces BY MARY BETH SCHWARTZ


EVERY YEAR, LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS AWAIT THE AMERICAN SOCIETY

of Landscape Architect’s (ASLA) top outdoor trends. In a recent survey,

it was shown that a majority of homeowners prefer terraces, patios, and

decks for their outdoor structures. For their landscape elements, low

maintenance and native plantings are musts. Decorative water elements,

such as ornamental pools, waterfalls, and grottos, are popular. And, once

again, outdoor living spaces are popular, complete with lighting, dining

areas, fireplaces, and grills. Discover how three of Bucks County’s finest

landscape architects are using these elements to create dream spaces.

Garden Feature_Bucks County Designers REV/fdq 12/5/14 8:48 AM Page 1


Since 1930, Walter’s Nursery, Inc.

has been creating innovative land-

scapes from Yardley to the Saucon

Valley. They also cover Hunterdon

County in New Jersey, and go as far out

as Souderton. Their design professionals

have designed in-town yards, farmhouse

properties, and estates. Walter’s Nursery,

Inc. can provide master plans, vegetable

gardens, outdoor rooms, and garden

structures.

J. Willis Buck Walter, Head of

Garden Design at Walter’s Nursery, Inc.,

is an expert in his field. He has lectured

extensively about plants and landscape

architecture. One topic he enjoys is how

historic design periods fit with the local

architecture. “The natural American

landscape has greatly influenced English

landscape design, and, in turn, the

English designers have greatly influenced

the American garden,” Walter says.

The first period, in the 18th century,

is called Georgian or Colonial. “In the

early days of the 18th century in Britain,

there was a shift away from the formal

garden designs of centuries past. The old

designs with formal box hedges pruned

into elaborate patterns, long straight

reflecting ponds, and leveled terrain were

highly influenced by Dutch and French

gardens. The English wanted a style of

their own, and in the Age of

Enlightenment, they started to turn their

backs on the idea of man’s dominance

over nature, and instead, started to look at

nature as a benchmark for perfection, an

ideal to strive for,” Walter says.

“The landed gentry of England

transformed their formal gardens to

idealized natural meadows and

woodlands with serpentine lakes and

pastoral vistas. These ideas were

shared by the American Colonists.

Plant hunters like John Bartram were

making new discoveries in the vast

woodlands of the new world. Some

Georgian/Colonial plants include

shadbush or serviceberry, swamp

azalea, coastal azalea, fringe tree,

Franklin Tree, oakleaf hydrangea, and

sweetbay magnolia,” Walter says.

The second period, in the 19th cen-

tury, is the Victorian. “In Victorian gar-

den design, we see plants from around

the world, and fanciful recreations of the

locations the plants came from. For

example, Japanese gardens, Himalayan

rock gardens, and Chinese pagodas as

garden pavilions. Gardens were the mim-

icking the scenes depicted on their blue

and white china. Architectural formality

was added back into the garden with box

Historic Gardens

Continued on page 58



Below, J. Willis BuckWalter. Right, an Arts and

Crafts design. Inset, Bletillastriata. Below, Victorian

Arts and Crafts design.



Dear Garden Associates,Inc. is a Bucks Countyfirm offering distinctive

design, maintenance, and installa-tions. In business for 10 years, thecompany has clients in EasternPennsylvania, Central New Jersey,the Lehigh Valley, the Main Line,and Manhattan. According toPrincipal Bill Dear, their core valuesare reliability, accessibility, and sus-tainability. In addition, their teamhas expertise in irrigation, construc-tion, masonry, garden design, horti-culture, lighting, and landscapearchitecture.

Bill Dear described a recentproject located in Bryn Athyn,Pennsylvania. “This was a mid-cen-tury modern architecture ranchhouse. The clients were emptynesters thinking about living in thehouse long term, so the plansincluded external handicap ramps toallow for access to the lower area ofthe house. It was a great opportuni-ty to use plants and stonework in amanner that complimented boththe individual characteristics of thehome and site. The walls on thisproject were very unique. The walls

flanking the steps by the deck werebuilt using water worn river stone toprovide a softer look rather thanusing a more angular stone typicalto this region. The open walls uti-lized a traditional bluestone with avery unique method of cutting andsetting the stones specific to thishome,” Dear says.

“We created open walls, benchlike structures, to divide spaces andadd structure to the garden, withoutcreating a heavy feel. The stone capson the wall are four-inch-thick slabsof bluestone with a one-inch verticaledge that then bevels inward to cre-ate angles mimicking details on thehome. We used a very simple plantpallet focusing on perennials of dif-ferent textures and heights plantedin large drifts in order to create avery relaxed and elegant look to thegarden, which also served as a greatplatform for the sculptural form ofthe large Japanese Maple near thefront door. The layout of the plant-ings also created a wonderful transi-tion between the clean horizontallines of the home, the undulatingtopography of the site, and the sur-

Sculpting Scapes




Above, a Japanese maple is anintegral part of the landscapedesign. Center, benchlikestructures for enjoying theview. Below, an expansiveview of the completed design.



Since 1961, family-ownedBucks Country GardensLtd. has offered land-

scape design and maintenance toclients in Bucks County andMontgomery County, as well asHunterdon County in New Jersey.According to President TomHebel, their experienced team spe-cializes in innovative outdoor livingspaces. They also have a seasonalstore and garden center.

“Gardens and outdoor livingenvironments are works inprogress. It is refreshing when thehomeowner understands thedynamic that the garden is aliveand continues to evolve and con-stantly need attention. We worktogether to make the garden thebest that it can be for the client.Relatively minor projects are com-bined with some major projects tocreate an outdoor living space thatis personal and meaningful. Aproperty you are proud to have andlove to experience. This was thecase with a client’s property inDoylestown,” Hebel says.

According to Hebel, the com-pany works on this residence everyyear, refining and expanding out-door spaces. It recently was on the

Bucks Beautiful Kitchen & GardenTour. “We have been working withthis client for 14 years. We do sea-sonal maintenance in the springand some in the fall. Our first proj-ect for this property was to reno-vate the foundation plantings at thefront door. There were good bonesto the plantings, we just needed toreplace some things that were notworking. We also added a picketfence in the front to create a court-yard. Another major project was toredesign and install new patios inthe backyard that lead from thehouse to the swimming pool anddown to the tennis court. It was acombination of walkways and smallpatio spaces. Recently, we installednew lantern posts and a mailbox,and some dry stacked walls at theirentrance garden located at thestreet,” Hebel says.

According to Hebel, there aresome challenges to working on thisproperty. One is the high popula-tion of deer. “It is always a chal-lenge to find material that is aes-thetically pleasing and that the deerwill not eat,” Hebel says. Anotherchallenge is the change of grade onthe property. “The backyard goes

Refining Landscapes




Above, one project was to install thepergola and picket fencing. Left, arecent lantern post addition. Right,one of the backyard gardens. Below, ablooming garden on the property.



hedges and carpet bedding. It would be com-

mon to display individual trees or shrubs

throughout the lawn. The Victorians also liked

to grow under glass and collect prized plants

such as the orchid,” Walter says. A Victorian

garden could include Himalayan cedar,

Japanese maple, Japanese stewartia, camellia,

doublefile viburnum, or hardy orchid.

The third period is the Arts & Crafts

movement of the early 20th century. “Gardens

became an extension of your home, a series of

rooms. Nature was the source of artistic inspira-

tion. Design ideas included garden rooms,

perennial borders with naturalistic planting

arrangements, color palettes, and even mono-

chromatic gardens. During the Arts & Crafts,

paths and hedges create structure, beds and

drifts create form, foliage and hardscape mate-

rials create texture. Many varieties of plants are

used to offer color for the entire length of the

growing season,” Walter says.

“By the end of the 20th century, the plant

selection possibilities are endless, and gardens

made good use of boxwood and yew for struc-

ture, perennials for color and texture, ornamen-

tal grasses to bind it all together. The garden is

romantic, complete with colors, lush plantings,

scent, and movement from the breeze. Plants

spilling over paths, growing together side by

side,” Walter says.

So whether you have a Bucks County

farmhouse (Colonial/Georgian), a Doylestown

Victorian, or a river cottage (Arts & Crafts), the

architecture style of your home can help to

determine your garden design. Walter’s

Nursery, Inc. is located at 152 River Road (P.O.

Box 206), Point Pleasant, PA 18950. You can

reach them at 215-297-5860. Visit them online

on Facebook or www.waltersnurseryinc.com.


PUBLICATIONS.

Historic GardensContinued from Page 52

down hill measurably. There are con-necting stairs and step systems. Therealso is the handling of runoff waterbecause the property slopes from front toback. Our job is to get the water fromaround the house and through the back-yard without having drainage ditches,”Hebel says.

Bucks Country Gardens Ltd. is locat-ed at 1057 North Easton Road,

Doylestown, PA 18902. They are anexclusive Bucks County partner withWalpole Woodworkers, a company spe-cializing in custom outdoor living struc-tures, including arbors, pergolas, lattice,lantern posts, mailboxes, fencing, andplanting containers. For more informa-tion, see Facebook, call 215-766-7800, orvisit www.buckscountrygardens.com.

Redefining LandscapesContinued from Page 56



rounding untamed wilderness,” Dearsays.

According to Dear, this MontgomeryCounty project had some challenges.“The major challenge on this project waswater. This property lies at the low endof the street and all rain water flows intothe property and across the drive towardsthe front door. During a typical storm, astream of water would result. We wereable to direct the water into a naturalstone grate fabricated on site. The wateris then carried away via a network of pip-ing under the walkways. A second chal-lenge was to have handicap access toboth the front door and rear basemententrances to the home. The gradechange to the rear entrance is significant.This posed a challenge due to having to

contend with tree roots that could not bedamaged, surface water runoff, and lay-ing out the path so it comfortably woundthrough the garden. The third challengewas that this property is surrounded byseveral large private institutions andwoodlands with a high deer population.Deer resistance was a major factor in theselection of plant materials,” Dear says.

Dear Garden Associates, Inc. can befound on Facebook, as well aswww.houzz.com, where you can findmany of their landscapes and outdoorliving spaces. Their address is 6746 OldEaston Road, Pipersville, PA 18947. Youcan visit their Website at www.deargarden.com. To reach them by phone, call215-766-8110 in PA, and 609-919-0050in NJ.

Sculpting ScapesContinued from Page 54

torn down over 60 years ago. We installed a bee-hive mosaic on the back of the oven to break upthe stonework. It was a challenge to mountthe mosaic, which weighed over 80 pounds,in the six-inch stone veneer of the oven.After installing the beehive mosaic on theback, the custom Argentinian grill withbluestone counters, lighting throughout forentertaining, and a bluestone roof (eachstone weighing 200 pounds, attached by thesecrets of the mason), the oven was com-plete, but not the project. We then installed

a large stone set of steps tapering up inwidth. We finished the area off with a drylaid broken bluestone patio,” Hertz says. For more information on the high-end cus-tom masonry and natural landscapes ofHertz & Dunn Masonry and Landscapes,call 215-534-6912, or visit www.hertzanddunnmasonry.com. Their mailing address isP.O. Box 256, New Hope, PA 18938.


StyleContinued from Page 45


Order online today!

Find your quiet place to be alone with Bucks County Magazine. Discover what everyone is talking about while you enjoy our historic towns, fine

artists, craftsmen, stone farmhouses, Bed & Breakfasts, beautiful gardens,parks, restaurants, farms, and interesting people.

CALL 215-962-1659 OR VISIT BUCKSCOUNTYMAG.COM

BucksCountyMag.com

The only magazine found on Bucks County coffee tables!

Gemmi pg 2_Home Design 12/5/14 11:13 AM Page 1

OOUR LIVING SPACE IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING.According to the International Furnishings and DesignAssociation (IFDA), Americans will be living in a muchdifferent home by the year 2020. The formal livingroom will be extinct, as well as the separate diningroom. Eat-in kitchens will replace dining rooms, andkitchens will widely expand due to an increased interestin home cuisine. Bathrooms will be spa retreats, com-plete with high-tech features, spa showers, even televi-sions. The master bedroom will share space with theexercise room, media center, and home office. Therewill be more than one office in the home with theincrease in telecommuting. And, as technology devel-ops, the home of the near future will be controlledbeyond touch with voice and sensor. Discover how fourarea custom builders revised living spaces for home-owners with additions and renovations.


Our CustomBuilders

Four masters of the trade reveal recent additions and renovations they completed for families in

the Delaware Valley

BY MARY BETH SCHWARTZ

BUCKS BLDRS 1_Bucks County Designers REV/fdq 12/5/14 8:56 AM Page 1


VictorianAdditions

Since 1975, Michael J. Hutchinson Builder

has been working on additions, renova-

tions, historic restorations, and new con-

struction. Servicing clients in Bucks and

Montgomery counties, as well as parts of New

Jersey, Michael J. Hutchinson is a third genera-

tion craftsman. According to Hutchinson, the

company does most of their own millwork, and

his son Michael handles the cabinetry and mill-

work end of the business.

“We do a lot of work on older homes, which

is a real passion of mine. It requires a higher level

of craft. You have to investigate things as you do

restoration work. Your job is to duplicate what

was there and work within the boundaries of the

old house. I carry this craft over into new homes.

Most new homes simulate older housing with

their trim details, cornice and exterior work, win-

dows, and proportions,” Hutchinson says.

Recently, the builder completed an almost

two-story Cape Cod block style house in

Newtown. “This house was built in the 1950s.

The challenge with this project was to build an

addition with a good deal of space, but not have

the addition overpower the existing home. The

house also went into a hillside. We had to raise

the back wall up and have the back wall of the

addition be a retaining wall for the yard. We

worked on the new kitchen, and family room on

the first floor. On the second floor, we worked

on the master bedroom, bath, and closet space.

The home now better suits the needs of the

family,” Hutchinson says.

Hutchinson often will walk through a

property for clients before they purchase it. “I

give them some rough cost ideas on what the

improvements will be. That way, after settle-

ment is made, we can get started on construc-

tion,” Hutchinson says.

This was the case of a family who pur-

chased an 1890s Victorian home in Newtown.

“We did a two-story addition off of the back of

the house. We also added some garage space

with a low lying piece, a mudroom attachment

infused with lots of glass to bring in natural

light. This gave the appearance of a detached

garage, which is important for an older home.

The home had a finished walk-out basement,

and a family room area and eat-in nook off of

the kitchen on the first level. On the second

level, it had a master bedroom and bath,”

Hutchinson says.

An interesting aspect of the project was a

new fireplace in the rear addition. “We looked

all over for a mantlepiece. We discovered one in

an architectural salvage yard in Bedminster and

restored it. I also had to find a newel post, rail-

ing, and some banisters for a new stairway that

came into the back mudroom area of the house.

I wanted it to be similar to the main stair, which

was done in chestnut. The problem is you can’t

get chestnut today. I found what I needed in the

basement of an antique store in Philadelphia.

We restored the wood and installed it. These

timeless elements make a huge difference in the

space,” Hutchinson says.

Michael J. Hutchinson Builder can be con-

tacted at 132 North State Street, Newtown, PA

18940. Their phone number is 215-968-3767.

You can visit them at www.michaelhutchin

son.com. Michael J. Hutchinson can be emailed

at: [email protected].



Michael J. Hutchinson builder worked on an 1890s Victorian homein Newtown. The two-story addition on the historic home involved amaster bedroom and bath. There also was the addition of a garagespace and a mudroom attachment infused with glass to bring innatural light.



Total HomeMakeovers

John Gemmi of Gemmi Construction,

Inc. has been creating award-winning liv-

ing spaces for over 20 years. His full-serv-

ice firm has clients in Bucks and

Montgomery counties, as well as Hunterdon

County in New Jersey.

His team recently worked on a 1980s

Bucks County Colonial home. “The home-

owners meticulously renovated their home

over the years. This project was the final phase

of a multi-year plan. This was a collaboration

between Gemmi Construction, Inc., William

Draper Cabinetmaker, Inc., JFA Architecture,

and the homeowners. We ripped out the

kitchen, pushed walls back, and put on an

addition. We pushed back the entire back wall

of the house, the main section of the struc-

ture. In that bump out, we expanded the

kitchen and expanded the laundry area and

added an additional full bathroom,” says

President John Gemmi.

According to Gemmi, the goal of the

addition was to bring in as much of the out-

side into the inside space. “The additional

bump out gave nine-foot ceiling height. We

were able to put transoms on top of the doors

and windows. When you were inside, you

would see sky. The raised height gave the illu-

sion of more space,” Gemmi says.

Gemmi worked with William Draper

Cabinetmaker, Inc. on the Williamsburg style

kitchen. “The original kitchen was tight and

cramped. The homeowner liked the style of

Colonial Williamsburg. She had a dream list

for this kitchen for years. She had ideas for

the wallpaper, cabinetry, even the hardware.

We pulled it all together to create the ulti-

mate kitchen for her,” Gemmi says.

Also located on the first floor of the home

is the laundry area. “We moved the laundry

room into the addition. We were able to ori-

ent the windows to bring in more natural

light. We created a countertop for the front

loading washer and dryer and added some

nice cabinetry for the space,” Gemmi says.

Outside, Gemmi Construction, Inc. also

made some changes. “In the patio area, we

took the existing porch and changed the con-

figuration of the columns. We made them the

correct size in relation to the space of the

room and the porch. We created a coffered

ceiling on that porch. On the back of the

house we also created a little seated area. The

homeowners can take off their muddy shoes

from gardening and go directly into the bath-

room to freshen up,” Gemmi says.

Gemmi Construction, Inc. can be reached

at P.O. Box 87, Mechanicsville, PA 18934.


can see them on Facebook, or visit them at

www.gemmiconstruction.com.



Gemmi Construction, Inc. worked with a family over several years to totally makeover theirhome. The recent addition was designed to bring in lots of light. The laundry area and bathalso were included in this addition.



For over 40 years, Jay Maxwell and his

son James Maxwell have been working

on renovations, custom homes, and

additions under J.R. Maxwell Builders, Inc.

They have won numerous awards for their

historic renovations, including the 2013

Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Award for

their restoration of the Bucks County

Playhouse. The Maxwells have clients in

Bucks and Montgomery counties, as well as

Hunterdon County in New Jersey.

According to James Maxwell, the compa-

ny recently worked on a historic Bucks County

farmhouse in Buckingham. “Our job was to

turn a house built 200 years ago into a modern

comfortable living space. When we first got to

the house 15 years ago, it had no plumbing, no

electric. We completely renovated the house

and put on a large addition on the side that

included a family room, a master bedroom, and

some bathrooms. We have continued to work

on the home since then. Most recently, we did

a new detached garage and an extremely large

and decorative patio, complete with roof cover

heaters and an elaborate outdoor kitchen.

There also is a carriage house that we worked

on, including all new copper gutters and roof-

ing,” Maxwell says.

“We have Mink Run Millwork for hand-

crafted custom architectural interior mill-

work, built-in furniture, cabinetry, bars, and

landscape architecture to match work com-

pleted at your home. We can match new mill-

work to any existing finish that you may have.

Mink Run Millwork is located in

Bedminster,” Maxwell says.

“When you choose J.R. Maxwell

Builders, Inc. you can be certain that you will

receive the highest quality service and sup-

port, as well as superior attention to detail.

We refuse to cut corners and will work with

you at every phase of production to guarantee

that your needs are met. We take great care to

ensure that we complete your project accord-

ing to your exact specifications and timelines.

Once your project is finished, we will contin-

ue to be available for consultation and

upgrades because we know that good crafts-

manship is an ongoing commitment,”

Maxwell says.

J.R. Maxwell Builders, Inc. can be

reached at P.O. Box 1327, Doylestown, PA

18901. Their phone number is 215-345-

1953. You can see them on Facebook, or visit

them at www.jrmaxwellbuilders.com. James

Maxwell can be emailed at:

[email protected].

UpdatingHistory



J.R. Maxwell Builders, Inc.spent several years helpingtheir client achieve theirdream home. Above, thedining area is located in theoriginal part of the historichome. Center, an expansiveview of the home, and thecarriage house. Below, theliving room is a comfortablemodern living space.



Since 1982, Rolf Schroeder General

Contractors, Inc. has been specializing in

custom home remodels, bathrooms, and

kitchens. The firm has garnered top awards

from the National Association of the

Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the National

Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). Since

2012, they have received The Intelligencer’s

Best of Bucks/Mont Awards. The Schroeders

also have been recognized by Remodeling

Magazine. From the magazine, they have

received the Big50 Class of 2014 Award, as well

as the GuildQuality Excellence Award.

President Rolf Schroeder and his son

General Manager Derek Schroeder work for

clients in both Bucks and Montgomery coun-

ties. Members of NARI and NKBA, the

Schroeders hold three professional certifica-

tions. They are Certified Remodelers. They also

are Certified Kitchen and Bathroom

Remodelers. And, finally, they are Universal

Design Certified Professionals. The company

recently added handyman projects and interior

design service to their list of client offerings.

Rolf Schroeder General Contractors, Inc.

recently worked with a client to create an

award-winning kitchen with modern conven-

iences and innovations. “They were looking for

a kitchen that provided a more ergonomic lay-

out for the family. Their existing kitchen was

missing the wow factor in their estate home.

The new kitchen had custom pull-out spice

racks, a large island, a true farmhouse sink, lev-

els of lighting, furniture grade wood flooring,

and a motorized trash and recycling center. The

kitchen had all new professional appliances.

There was a microwave, dishwasher, and warm-

ing drawer from Miele. From Wolf, a 48-inch,

six-burner gas range. There also was a Sub-Zero

built-in over-under refrigerator. There was a

handcrafted walnut end grain four-inch butch-

er block. The kitchen also had new Mouser cus-

tom beaded Shaker inset cabinetry in a maple

eggshell matte and cherry mesquite flat finish,”

says Derek Schroeder.

Another award-winning project was to

remodel a 1980s master bathroom for a client

after they recently bought a new home. “They

wanted an oasis to call their own, but within a

certain budget. The original space lacked design,

aesthetics, and functionality. The new design

had a vanity tower, enlarged deep soaking tub,

and an enlarged shower with a rain head and

built-in bench. We used tranquil colors to create

a relaxing environment. There also was a four-

drawer vanity base cabinet with soft close draw-

ers to organize storage,” Schroeder says.

For a third client, Rolf Schroeder General

Contractors, Inc. built an award-winning entry

point into the home. “One of the challenges was

to create a design solution that transformed the

side entry of the home, while remaining archi-

tecturally proportionate to the existing struc-

ture. It was important to construct a welcoming

side entrance that not only provided shelter, but

created visual interest and a timeless appearance.

We created an intimate side porch with blue-

stone. A new side door with Art Deco glass was

installed that lead to the mudroom, kitchen, and

entertaining space. New solid carriage house

doors were installed. Custom millwork,

columns, new siding, and cascading roof lines

also added to the project,” Schroeder says.

Rolf Schroeder General Contractors, Inc.

can be reached at 1979 Stout Drive, Suite 1,

Ivyland, PA 18974. Their phone number is 215-

672-0829. You can see them on Facebook, or

visit them at www.rolfschroedergc.com.


PUBLICATIONS.

Remodel Trio



Three projects by RolfSchroeder General Contractors,Inc. Left, an accent photo of aredesigned entry point into ahome. Right, an oasis masterbath. Below, an award-win-ning kitchen with modern con-veniences and innovations.



Dream

KitchensSix area kitchen designers reveal their

stunning designs to inspire homeowners who are compiling their wish lists

by Mary Beth Schwartz

Every year, the National Kitchen &

Bath Association (NKBA) releases

their forecast based on research they

compile from kitchen professionals.

Their trends help to influence the

designs of kitchens nationwide.

According to their finds, the top kitchen features most

sought after include steam ovens, LED lighting, satin

nickel faucets, bottom freezer refrigerators, stainless steel

sinks, glass backsplashes, wood flooring, quartz counter-

tops, and induction cooktops. Homeowners want furni-

ture type pieces in the kitchen, and their appliances must

save water and energy. Technology is big in the kitchen,

including a docking and/or charging station, small home

office, even a flat screen television. The kitchen also has to

have universal design and easy maintenance. The fastest

growing kitchen style is Contemporary, followed by

Transitional. The Shaker style still remains in third.

Discover if any of the following popular elements made

their way into the following six designer kitchens.

Kitchens_Bucks County Designers REV/fdq 12/5/14 9:03 AM Page 1


Sweetbriar Cabinetry William Draper

Creative ContractingSuperior Woodcraft

American Homestead Tobias Design


In business for 26 years, Creative

Contracting Inc. is a design build firm

serving Bucks and Montgomery coun-

ties. “We guide clients through every

step—the initial wish list, design, final selec-

tions, construction, even decor and window

treatments. We offer the whole soup to nuts

experience,” says Interior Designer Kim

DuBree.

DuBree recently helped Montgomery

County homeowners create a new Traditional

kitchen in a 1960s two-story Colonial. “The

clients wanted to have a beautiful and function-

al kitchen. We enlarged the doorway between

the kitchen and the breakfast nook to create a

large eat-in kitchen. Then we closed the door-

way off between the formal dining room and

the kitchen to allow us to have more counter

space,” DuBree says.

The newly designed kitchen had more stor-

age, was less cramped, and had more natural

light. Hardwood flooring was installed, as well

as light granite countertops, backsplash tile, and

tiles over the cooktop. There also was a double

bowl stainless steel sink installed, along with

cabinet lighting, and a chandelier over the sink.

The appliances included an induction cooktop

range, oven, and warming drawer.

“We used Village Handcrafted Cabinetry.

The cabinet style was beaded raised panel. The

client loved symmetry, so the built-in corner

cabinets flanking the window in the eating area

and the centered kitchen sink on the window

wall were perfectly symmetrical. The color tone

was soft neutral cream with hints of caramel

carried through on beadboard accents—above

the refrigerator, above the cooktop and inside

the corner cabinets. Custom details include the

custom keystone design and mantle over the

cooktop, the decorative cutout shelving above

the refrigerator, and the continuous use of fine

woodwork moldings and matching trim


Kitchen Style: TRADITIONAL


Kitchen Style: HIGH COUNTRY FRENCH

According to Darren Simcox,

President of American

Homestead Kitchens Ltd., he

has been creating beautiful,

inspired kitchen spaces that reflect personal

aesthetic and lifestyle for over 17 years. “We

balance design expectations with functional

requirements, while providing exceptional

service, product, and attention to detail,”

Simcox says.

American Homestead Kitchens Ltd. offers

timeless designs for their client base in

Central Bucks County. For a family in

Plumstead Township,

Simcox created a high style

Country French kitchen in

a newer construction

home. “The existing

kitchen was a generic

builder’s kitchen. The

client wanted something

that was more their per-

sonal style and worked

with the rest of the fur-

nishings in their home.

They wanted more of a

custom feel than a generic

raised panel cabinet that

was in the house at the

time,” Simcox says.

The Bucks County firm

worked on the kitchen and

the bar area. The design

included appliances. “We

used a Sub-Zero refrigerator,

which is concealed in an

armoire. There was a Wolf range, a Sharp

microwave drawer and two freezer drawers in

the island, an integrated dishwasher adjacent

to the sink, and a hood with a highly decora-

tive enclosure,” Simcox says.

There was a wish list to go along with the

appliances. The family wanted an island for a

large work surface and seating. Behind the

island, a coffee bar, which also would be used for

entertaining purposes. At one end of the island

there is a work surface featuring a large pot and

pan cabinet. At the other end of the island, an

open bookshelf for cookbook storage. Another

throughout the kitchen and breakfast nook,”

DuBree says. The cabinetry included a spice

rack, double trash pullout, lazy Susan, and draw-

ers for storage. Cabinetry also was done in the

nearby laundry area. A countertop was installed

over the washer and dryer to make the space

more useful.

Creative Contracting Inc. can be contacted

at P.O. Box 1475, North Wales, PA 19454.

Their phone number is 215-661-8581. You can

see them on Facebook or their Website,

www.creativecontracting.biz.




Superior Woodcraft, Inc. is a family

owned and operated business located

in Doylestown, the heart of Bucks

County. “Since 1967, we have been

custom crafting superior cabinetry at our on-site

woodworking facility and bringing our client’s

home improvement visions to life. You can rely

on our skilled and knowledgeable team to work

with you from design concept to project com-

pletion with a focus on complete customer sat-

want was to have a sink at the window to view

out onto the property. Below the window, a new

Kohler sink and Rohl faucet. Above the range is

a pot filler faucet for convenience in cooking.

Custom cabinetry was installed for the proj-

ect. Granite countertops were used in the kitchen

area. “We double thickened the edge. Instead of

traditional granite that is an inch and a quarter

thick on the edge, we laminated two pieces

together at the edge to create a two and a half

inch think chunky countertop,” Simcox says. A

showcase cabinet piece was the bar area. “The bar

area was niched in where the former powder

room and laundry room were. It was originally a

flat wall. There was an Iroko wood countertop

with a crown molding detailed edge. The bar had

an antiqued distressed black finish, as well as a

French copper sink and faucet. It also had an

integrated Sub-Zero wine refrigerator at one end

of it. We created the hutch detail top to it, which

tied in with the other furniture in the space. The

wire mesh doors on the bar are a Country French

detail,” Simcox says.

American Homestead Kitchens Ltd. is

located at 5016 Mechanicsville Road, P.O. Box

16, Mechanicsville, PA 18934. Their phone

number is 215-794-0549. You can see them on

Facebook or their Website, www.american

homesteadkitchens.com.

Kitchen Style: TRANSITIONAL YET TRADITIONAL



What separates one kitchen designer

from another is their creativity, their

ability to work with space in a cre-

ative way that also matches a budg-

et. They must create a process that is well docu-

mented, limits surprises, and manages expecta-

tions. In the end, the process is as important as

the final product. We work very hard to make

that process run as smooth as possible,” says Lisa

Tobias, Owner of Tobias Design, LLC.

In business for 12 years, Tobias Design,

LLC offers custom kitchen cabinetry designs in

Bucks County, as well as Mercer, Somerset,

Monmouth, Morris, and Hunterdon counties in

New Jersey. A winner of the Best of Houzz

2014, Tobias Design, LLC has a staff of design-

ers with a combined experience of over 50 years.

Tobias Design, LLC recently created a

Federal style kitchen for homeowners in

Newtown. “The home was built in the late 1600s

and had various additions, one in the 1800s, and

one in the 1900s. The homeowner wanted to

maintain the beautiful features and bones of the

original house. They kept the integrity of the

original architecture and paid homage to the time

period of the house. They added an addition that

was as deep as an entire block so that they could

not only honor the original architecture, but also

modernize the newer part in a way that gave

them a more contemporary function and use of

the house. This is where we did the Federal style

kitchen,” Tobias says.

An obstacle in the design was the local his-

torical society’s restriction on the use of win-

dows. “The new windows that we were working

with had a height off of the floor that was lower

than what you would find in current day

kitchens. Cabinetry comes to 36 inches off the

floor with the countertop. In this case, the win-

dows were at 21 inches off of the floor. We

Kitchen Style: FEDERAL

isfaction. Our experienced craftsman can create

not only stunning kitchen cabinets, but also

unique home offices, bars, wine cellars,

armoires, and vanities,” says Vice President

Patrick Kennedy.

Superior Woodcraft, Inc. recently com-

pleted a magnificent Traditional yet

Transitional kitchen for a family with a

Colonial home in Bucks County. The project

took one year to complete. The homeowner

was so overjoyed about the kitchen’s outcome

she was part of a video on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4M8rz1

0vD8. “In My Family, My Home, My Kitchen,the homeowner shared her story about how

Superior Woodcraft, Inc. can create the perfect

stage for your kitchen, your home, and your

family. This kitchen was designed and custom

made to meet the family’s desires for a time-

less, custom design that allowed the kitchen to

be the center of the home for family celebra-

tions,” Kennedy says. This kitchen was so

inspirational that it became part of a market-

ing campaign for Houzz.com.

“This kitchen had everything. The heart

of the home, this kitchen met the needs of the

client with a timeless, custom design that was

the ideal gathering place for bringing the fam-

ily together. It was equipped with a kitchen

communication command center, upscale

appliances, convenient custom storage solu-

tions, premium hardwood floors, and back-

splash tile. There also was fantastic recessed

lighting, pendant lighting, and Absolute black

granite countertops,” Kennedy says.

For additional details on My Family, MyHome, My Kitchen, you can visit

http://www.houzz.com/projects/65821/my-

family-my-home-my-kitchen. Superior

Woodcraft, Inc. is located at 160 North

Hamilton Street, Doylestown, PA 18901.


can see them on Facebook or their Website,

www.superiorwoodcraft.com.



Kimberly West, Owner and

Designer of Sweetbriar Cabinetry

and Design Inc., has a true sensi-

bility for space planning, function,

traffic flow, all of those good things that are part

of custom kitchen design. West has been active

in kitchen design for almost 30 years. Her

clients can be found in Princeton and

Hunterdon County in New Jersey, as well as

Bucks, Montgomery, and Lehigh counties.

West recently worked on a 1970s home for

a couple in Solebury. “We took their house over

and did changes to the floor plan that involved

the family room, the breakfast area, and the

kitchen. We also did a powder room and two

bathrooms, and redesigned their upstairs hall-

way. The kitchen’s style had to be consistent

with the French Chateau Greek Revival design

of the rest of the house. They wanted the

kitchen to function better, be brighter, and have

addressed this by creating cabinets that had

beautiful copper flower boxes built into the cab-

inetry. From the outside, people would see the

flower boxes, and we could still use cabinets in

front of the windows. It was a creative way to

address the restriction,” Tobias says.

The kitchen’s design included simple appli-

ances, wood flooring, Travertine mini brick

backsplash, and an antique cart with a cutting

board on top to integrate with the island.

Husband and wife cleanup detail was an impor-

tant aspect for the kitchen. Two sinks and two

dishwashers were installed to help with this

process. For the cabinetry, Bentwood custom

cabinetry in a classic Shaker style. It was paint-

ed white. Granite was chosen for the counter-

top. Period accessories were used in the design

of the kitchen, as well, including pottery, light-

ing, and an antique quilt.

Tobias Design, LLC is located at 48 West

Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ 08525. Their

phone number is 609-466-1445. You can see

them on Facebook, or visit their Website,

www.tobiasdesignllc.com.

Kitchen Style: TRANSITIONAL YET TRADITIONAL



updated appliances,” West says.

According to West, the kitchen was

Transitional, with a bent towards Traditional. It

had wood flooring, a farm sink, a 40-inch Wolf

range, and a 700 Series Sub-Zero hidden in an

armoire with a pullout. There was a corner Lazy

Susan cabinet with a motion detection light. For

the backsplash it had Tabarka tile. “It looks like

a teardrop and it has relief to it. So, it is convex

and concave. The whole design of the tile is in

the texture of the movement, not in any color. It

is quiet and sophisticated,” West says. The coun-

tertop on the island was a honed Carrera mar-

ble. For the perimeter countertop, Sienna

Bordeaux leathered granite was used. There was

a Miele micro convection oven in the island.

For the cabinetry, West chose Plato

Woodwork’s Icon line. “It was a specialty cabi-

net in that the frame is an inset door, but the

cabinet frame was one inch thick and the door

was three-quarters inches thick. It created its

own design element between the thicknesses of

the door and the frame. The doors had flat pan-

els. The drawers were lined with walnut wood so

that the drawers had a walnut edge on them.

This was the same for the pullout shelves. We

chose an off-white paint with a glaze on the wall

cabinets, and the base cabinets were an ebonized

walnut,” West says.

Sweetbriar Cabinetry and Design Inc. is

located at 8330 Easton Road, Building D,

Ottsville, PA 18942. Their phone number is

610-847-5851. You can see them on

Facebook, or visit their Website, www.sweet

briarcabinetry.com.

Kitchen Style: WILLIAMSBURG TRADITIONAL

From the Silicon Valley to Sag

Harbor, and all areas in between,

William Draper Cabinetmaker,

Inc. is a Bucks County full-service

design firm. In business since 2004, their

elite kitchens and baths have appeared in

national publications.

According to Interior Designer Nancy



Garcia, the company collaborates with a spe-

cial clientele whose ultimate goal is a custom

designed interior and experience that reflects

the essence of their lifestyle. “As a creative

design team, our approach strives to generate

and evoke an emotional response that is

translated into unique applications of materi-

als, textures, color, and light. Our exclusive

millwork/cabinet shop in Bucks County

affords our clients with direct access to the

hand craftsmanship that is rooted in all of our

projects. William Draper Cabinetmaker, Inc.

is proud to introduce our full access design

team that can manage and deliver a design

experience from Bucks County Modern to

Williamsburg Traditional,” Garcia says.

Interior Designer Robert Schultz worked

on a Williamsburg Traditional kitchen with

some European influences in a Center Hall

Bucks County Colonial. “The clients wanted

to expand the kitchen/eat-in area, but most

importantly, they were looking for a working

relationship that they could develop over

time with the designer. Many times in larger

renovations, we find clients looking to work

with a design showroom that has executed a

shared design aesthetic, and Robert Schultz

was a perfect match for the project,” Garcia

says.

Robert Schultz of William Draper

Cabinetmaker, Inc. and John Gemmi of

Gemmi Construction, Inc. worked in con-

junction on the home. “The kitchen space

was designed in tandem with a back laundry

area, additional full service bathroom, new

powder room, back corridor, and inviting

breakfast area,” Garcia says. The design

Interior Designer Robert

Schultz worked on a

Williamsburg Traditional

kitchen with some European

influences in a Center Hall

Bucks County Colonial.



included an artisan Le Cornue range with

custom vent hood, a Tree of Life cast iron

fireplace in the breakfast area, and Miele dish-

washer, double ovens, and warming drawer.

There also was a Sub-Zero under refrigera-

tor/freezer in the large island. A signature

Draper DBS French styled armoire concealed

s Sub-Zero refrigerator. The new kitchen also

featured more natural light, natural stone

flooring, and ceramic tile backsplash. There

was a copper sink in the island, and a

Versailles farmhouse main sink in beige gran-

ite. On the secondary island, there was a hand

planed Alder Character countertop. The pri-

mary island had an exotic granite countertop.

On the perimeter, there was polished black

Absolute granite.

Last but not least, there was the custom

Country French cabinetry. “Our Draper DBS

cabinetry is nationally known for their unique

custom cabinet design, fine hand craftsman-

ship, and extraordinary finishes. Those finish-

es and wood choices are evident in this expan-

sive kitchen area. Hand tool sculpturing

(HTS) is a signature Draper DBS handcraft

technique that adds depth, beauty, and rich

texture to hardwoods. All the Alder surfaces

are sculpted by our Bucks County craftsmen

using hand planes specifically tuned to pro-

duce shape and texture. The beauty added is

not only visual, but also tactile and invites

touch. This is the ultimate wood surface to

add an organic sensibility to the furnishings,”

Garcia says.

William Draper Cabinetmaker, Inc. is

located at 4950 York Road, Buckingham

Green, Unit 1H, Buckingham, PA 18912.


can see them on Facebook, or visit their

Website, www.williamdraperinc.com.


PUBLICATIONS

48 West Broad Street • Hopewell, NJ 08525 • p: 609.466.1445 • f: 609.466.1499 • tobiasdesignllc.com

DISTINCTIVE SELECTIONS OFWOODS. FINISHES AND STYLES

INSPIRING CUSTOM DESIGNS

PROJECT MANAGEMENTFROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION



P eter Hunt is a plein air painter. “Ofcourse,” he says, “I do some studiopaintings and I often finish what I’vebegun in the studio but as often as Ican, I paint outdoors.” In fact PeterHunt, known for his marvelous use of

light and shading and his simple but vibrant palette,teaches others the technical tricks of the plein air tradeand has produced a very handy guide to plein air paint-ing that is folded so that it is very portable and fits inthe coat pocket of the novice or even an experiencedartist who would like to take advantage of Peter Hunt’srather systematic approach to the subject.

Peter Hunt Although Peter Hunt is very systematic in his approach toplein air painting, he has an aesthetic vision given to him bywhat he chooses to paint • by Bob Waite

Art

Art Dept 14_home & garden guide 12/5/14 9:14 AM Page 1


Peter liked to draw since he was a young

boy growing up in Glasgow, Scotland. He

graduated from the Glasgow School of Art

with a degree in product and package design.

In Scotland Peter worked for a tent company

and did illustrations that formed the basis of

an advertising campaign.

With a degree in package design and

some experience in package design, Peter left

Scotland for Madison Avenue during the

1960s. “It was like the show Mad Men,

except I wasn’t the one drinking whiskey and

smoking cigarettes—I was in the bullpen

doing work. But it’s fun watching that show,

like a walk down Memory Lane.”

Eventually Peter and his family left

New York and moved to New Jersey. There

he and his wife operated their own package

design business and raised two boys. They

lived there for 22 years. Peter began to

paint. “During that time I was a Sunday

painter. I used to paint in watercolor. And

I think that’s a marvelous training for an

oil painter. You learn to paint around

things, around buildings, instead of dealing

with them in patches.”

Fifteen years ago Peter moved to Bucks

County, where he said he became a serious

painter. “It’s not a big jump to go from pack-

age designer to painter. You are still dealing

with color, shapes and composition.” But

being a serious painter did mean changing

from watercolors to oils. “Once I painted in

oils, people began to take me more seriously.”

Even though watercolor is a more difficult

medium to use, it is not taken seriously by

Americans. “In Scotland watercolors are

more acceptable than here.”

Peter considers himself an Impressionist.

“If you want to put a label on it, I am a con-

temporary Impressionist. But as you can see,

there is a lot of realism in my paintings. I

want to have the viewer finish the painting

for me.”

Peter Hunt is very organized and system-

atic about technique, yet his plein air paint-

ings reflect a very refined aesthetic. In fact his

paintings have a vision that transcend his

step-by-step methodology. The vision

comes before Peter paints anything. It

comes from an interaction that occurs in the

process of finding a subject to paint. He

explains, “Wherever I go, I am aware of my

surroundings. Peter is always actively

searching for subjects. “When I am driving

around, if I see a spot and that has possibil-

ities, I write down where the spot is and

what time it was when I saw it. Of course a

spot at nine in the morning is totally differ-

ent at three in the afternoon.”

Peter, though, needs more than just a

good spot. Something has to click. When I

look at a scene, I need that ‘aha’ moment.”

The scene has to almost startle Peter. It has to

speak to him, making him say to himself,

“Aha!” And no matter how beautiful a scene

may be, it has to elicit an aha before he will

paint it.

Peter, a natural born teacher, wants to

pass his knowledge of plein air to other aspir-

ing painters. To do so he teaches workshops

and has written Peter Hunt’s Field Guide toPlein Air Painting. The Guide can be down-

loaded from his Website www.peter-

hunt.com. The printed version is folded, so

that it fits easily into a coat pocket. When

unfolded it is has on one side a map with

numbered markers indicating places where

he has painted, and there are photos of paint-

ings to correspond with the scenes marked

on the map. This would allow any aspiring

plein air painter to literally follow in Peter’s

footsteps. Also on this side of the page are

photos of the tools and brushes he uses and

the paints in his palette (six colors and titani-

um white). On the other side of the sheet are

step-by-step instructions on how to paint

plein air.

When Peter paints, he begins by making

a small thumbnail sketch in a sketchbook. “At

this point I want to figure out whether to

make it into a vertical or horizontal.” He uses



a carpenter’s pencil to make the sketch. Then

after deciding the format and making a

sketch of what is in the painting, he draws a

grid over the sketch and attaches the sketch to

the panel on which he is going to paint. He

uses the grid with numbered points to make

his painting on the board.

Although oil painters usually layer their

paint, Peter doesn’t do that. He paints direct-

ly. “There is no time to layer when you are

painting plein air.” The race is against the

moment, which could evaporate by changes

in light. Although Peter admits that he does-

n’t always finish his paintings outdoors.

Peter is interested in a variety of subjects:

landscapes, seascapes, industrial culture, street

scenes and Bucks County buildings. He is

active in the art community, having served on

the Board of Artsbridge and the Shad

Festival Scholarship Committee. His 2009

Shad post won First Place and in 2010 he

won the Shad Humor Award. Peter was

invited to participate in several prestigious

plein air festivals and was the featured artist at

the 2011 Tinicum Art Festival. He was a First

Place winner at Canal Frame-Crafts Gallery,

2010 and is a Prizewinner at Prallsville Mill

Historical Society in 2013 and 2014.

Peter’s work has also appeared in many

juried shows. His painting may be seen at The

gallery Room at Carousel Flowers, 224 West

State Street, Doylestown, PA and at Canal

Frame-Crafts Gallery, 1093 General Greene

Road, Washington Crossing, PA; 215-293-

3630 where several of his paintings will be

shown in the 16th Annual Small Works Show.

More of his Peter Hunt’s paintings can be seen

at www.peter-hunt.com.

620 Quarry Rd., • Harleysville, PA215-513-1516

www.quarryhillfarm.net

WEDDINGS • EVENTS • ORGANIC MEATS AND VEGETABLES

Visit our Market Wednesdaythrough Saturday



Ponds

If you ask a homeowner what they would like on their

property, over 86 percent would say a decorative water

element. According to a recent survey on outdoor

design trends by the American Society of Landscape

Architects (ASLA), waterfalls, ornamental ponds, and

splash pools are in high demand for home landscapes. These

water features top the demand for spas and swimming pools.

For artistic water features that appear to have happened natu-

rally in the landscape, homeowners can call upon Designer

Richard Burns of Flowing Springs Landscape Design, Inc.

“We are made up of highly experienced craftsmen who

plan and build unique exterior environments. For over 20 years,

we have been trusted with landscape design build projects in

Bucks, Montgomery, and Chester counties. We utilize the

finest natural materials and plants in creating water gardens, stone

walls, walkways, custom patios, ponds, streams, and waterfalls. Our

services include maintenance, historic restoration, landscape light-

Richard Burns of Flowing Springs LandscapeDesign, Inc. creates beautiful water features

that are designed to appear as if they occur in natureBy Mary Beth Schwartz

Natural Art

Ponds_home & garden guide 12/5/14 10:49 AM Page 1


ing, and design and installation,” Burns says.

Burns brings extensive experience to his

company. “I attended Unity College, where I

obtained a bachelor’s degree in ornamental hor-

ticulture and an associate’s degree in fisheries

biology. I grew up working in my grandfather’s

nursery. During my college years, I worked for a

stonemason. I combined the horticulture, the

natural stone, and the water into Flowing

Springs Landscape Design, Inc.,” Burns says.

Flowing Springs Landscape Design, Inc.

creates extensive water features for upscale resi-

dential properties. “People like to bring nature

into their backyard—butterflies, humming-

birds, and wildlife. We stock ponds with gold-

fish or Koi, or freshwater fish, such as bass and

bluegills. A lot of the creatures come on their

own. My job is to make the water feature look

like it occurred naturally. A good landscaper

designer will have a love of nature, a knowledge

of plants, vision, creativity, perceptiveness, and

experience with the construction materials,”

Burns says.

According to Burns, Flowing Springs

Landscape Design, Inc. created a water feature

for clients in New Hope. “These existing clients

were building a custom Bucks County style

stone farmhouse. I built them a bluestone patio

with a water feature tied into it. The property

had a bit of a slope, which was perfect to add to

the realness of the water feature. I created sever-

al tiers of waterfalls that bumped into a bottom

pond,” Burns says.

You can add tranquility and beauty to your

outdoor space with a water feature by Flowing

Springs Landscape Design, Inc. Their address is

426 Conestoga Road , Malvern, PA 19355. You

can call them at 610-408-0739. Visit

www.flowingspringsdesign.com for an online

portfolio of water features, patios, and land-

scapes.


PUBLICATIONS.

Everything you need for your fireplace

105 S. Main Street • Dublin, PA(Between Doylestown & Quakertown on Rte. 313) Mon - Fri. 9-6 • Sat 9-5 • Closed Sun

215.249.0182www.gratesandgrills.com



ANTIQUES

Aniques at 200 East & East Broad Street

Antiques, New Britain PA; 215-345-5616.

200 East Broad St., 215-536-4547. 141 East

Broad St., 215-536-4408. Quakertown, PA;

www.200eastbroadantiques.com.

Two unique, multi-dealer antique shops, just

steps apart, located at the intersection of

Routes 212 and 313 in the quaint, Antique

District of Quakertown, PA. Operating

since 2005, these two fine quality antique

shops offer everything from Vintage

Clothing, to Estate Jewelry; County Chic

to Primitive Furniture; Architectural

Hardware; Collectibles; Trains; Frames &

Artwork, Antique Clocks (with warranty),

Textiles, and much, much, more.

APPLIANCES

Bill Vandegrift, Inc., 450 East Butler Ave.,

New Britain PA; 215-345-5616.

www.billvandegrift.com.

Bill Vandegrift Inc.—the only one you

need to call. Let our knowledgeable staff

and 60 years of experience help you choose

the right appliance for your needs. We’re

just a phone call away.

AWNINGS

JMT Awnings, 215-659-5239;

www.jmtawnings.com.

For over 20 years JMT Awnings has provided

customers with a beautiful, custom-built

Perfecta retractable awning with the quali-

ty, reliability and experience they deserve.

The possibilities are endless from sunrise to

sunset.

BLINDS AND SHUTTERS

Riverwood Blinds Shades N’ Shutters LLC.,

868 W. Street Road, Suite 334, Warminster,

PA; 888-887-4623;

www.riverwoodshutters.com.

Factory Direct Vinyl Shutters @$18.00 Sq Ft.

Brand Name Value priced Shutters, Arches,

Shades and Blinds. Online sales. Call or email

for quote and information.

CUSTOM BUILDERS

Creative Contracting Inc., 584 Woodford

Road, North Wales, PA; 215-661-8517.

www.creativecontracting.biz.

Creative Contracting, Inc. – You’ll love com-

ing home! Bob DuBree, Bucks-Mont

NARI Certified Master Remodeler,has

owned and operated his business for 26

years.He and his wife, Kim, a certified inte-

rior designer, and their team, have won mul-

tiple design awards and will help you turn

your dream into a reality.

Gemmi Construction Inc., 4936 York Road,

Suite 1200 Buckingham, PA; 215-340-4600.

www.gemmiconstruction.com.

Gemmi Construction, Inc. is a full service,

Home & Garden Resource Directory

Resource Directory pgs_Home & Garden 12/5/14 10:21 AM Page 1


remodeling firm, specializing in Custom

Renovations and additions founded by NARI

Certified Remodeler, John Gemmi. With over

20 years experience, John’ s skill and pride in his

craft are building elegant and comfortable liv-

ing spaces all over Bucks and Montgomery

Counties that will be as appreciated in a cen-

tury as they are today.

J. R. Maxwell Builders, Inc., Doylestown, PA;

215-345-1953; www.jrmaxwellbuilder.com.

From façades and kitchen cabinets to built-

ins, there is distinctive American character

in everything we build. We place significant

emphasis on quality control from start to

finish and we refuse to cut corners—every

detail of every project has the unique touch

of our craftsmen.

Jarrett Vaughan Builders, Inc., Doylestown,

PA, 215-345-8008; www.jarrettvaughan.com.

Specializing in one of a kind homes, additions

and renovations. Along with our custom cab-

inetry division, Cold Spring Cabinetry, Inc.,

our staff has been beautifying homes in Bucks

and Montgomery Counties for more than 35

years.

Michael J. Hutchinson Builder, 132 North

State Street, Newtown, PA; 215-968-3767;

www.michaelhutchinson.com.

Tucked away in historic Newtown, Michael

Hutchinson quietly runs one of the most

respected restoration construction companies

in Eastern Pennsylvania.His ties to this

quaint Bucks County birthplace, coupled

with several generations in historic con-

struction and a passion for history, have

equipped Michael with the unique skill of

meticulously refitting older homes.

Rolf Schroeder General Contractors, Inc.,1979 Stout Drive Suite #1, Ivyland, PA; 215-

672-0829; www.rolfschroedergc.com.



An Award Winning Construction Firm that

offers the Design & the Building aspect need-

ed for successfully managing and completing

any remodeling project. in Over the last 30

plus years, the Company has been built around

Professionalism, Reputation, Integrity,

Dedication, and Experience.

CUSTOM CABINETRY

Superior Woodcraft, Inc., 160 N. Hamilton

Street, Doylestown, PA; 215-345-9942;

www.superiorwoodcraft.com.

Our craftsman abide by the principles of

honesty of materials, solidity of construc-

tion, utility, beauty and individuality. This

philosphy transcends every style and the-

matic design when producing heirloom-

quality custom cabinetry for your kitchen,

bath, library and other bespoke interiors.

William Draper Cabinetmaker, Bucking-

ham Green, PA; 215-794-9198;

www.williamdraperinc.com.

More than 20 years of designing and crafting

custom cabinetry and furniture in Bucks

County contributes to our exceptional vision

and expertise in creating a kitchen to fit your

own distinctive lifestyle.

DECORATING

Botancy Decorating, 753 Wisteria Dr.,

Warrington, PA; 215-500-2468;

www.botanydecorating.com

Our experienced, professional, educated interi-

or designers come to your home or office to

help you – you, the most important person to

us, decide in the comfort of your own sur-

roundings just what colors, what style, what

fabrics, what flooring and what furniture you

wish for your décor that reflects your special

and individual personality.



ENERGY ALTERNATIVES

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc.., 1107 Old

School Road, Quakertown, PA; 215-377-

5499; www.pennsylvaniarenewables.com

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc. is based in

Haycock Twp., Bucks County , PA. We pro-

vide expertise, information, and support to

anyone interested in using renewable energy.

We service and install solar, wind turbines,

geothermal, battery backup, LED lighting

controls, and passive solar designs.

FIREPLACE

Grates & Grills, Inc., 105 S. Main Street,

Dublin, PA; 215-249-0182;

www.gratesandgrills.com.

Since 1975 Frank Rymdeika and family have

been helping people stay warm and toasty with

an extensive inventory fireplace tools and

equipment. Also filling your barbecue needs

with a huge array of gas and charcoal grills. A

family business for your family needs.

FLOOR COVERING

Barb-Lin Carpet One, 640 North Main

Street, Doylestown, PA; 215-348-8116;

www.barb-lin.com.

Family owned and operated, Barb-Lin Carpet

One has been providing excellence in the floor

covering business since 1948. Through the

years, our quality and service are what the

community has been able to depend on. We

invite you to visit our showroom and let our

professional staff answer any questions you

may have about flooring.

Holland Floor Covering, 35 SwampRoad, Newtown, PA; 215-357-0909;http://www.hollandfloor.com.

ANTIQUE FURNITURE • VINTAGE JEWELRY • LINENS • ARTWORK • COLLECTIBLES

761 Durham Road (Route 413), Pineville, PA 18049 215-598-8830 www.makefieldantiques.com

Open Mon. & Tues. 10 -5, Wed. 10-4,Thurs.,Fri., & Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-5

Over 52 VendorsLocated in the

Heart of

BUCKS COUNTY



mine the optimal location for your renewable

energy system. We also monitor the rebates

and incentives that may apply to your solu-

tion. In many cases, these incentives can

drive the payback period for the entire sys-

tem to less than five years. And our systems

come with a one-year warranty on installa-

tion, as well as the full manufacturer’s war-

ranty on all parts,” Noto says.

Solar photovoltaic (SV) panels are popular

with clients of Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc.

“The panels convert the sun’s energy to elec-

tricity using no moving parts. Most panels on

the market today have a 25-year warranty. The

panels are very durable and rated for impact up

to two-inch hail. They are mounted to resist 90

miles per hour winds, and gusts up to 100.

Most residences have 10 kilowatt systems. The

panels can be mounted on the roof, or on the

ground, depending on the sun’s orientation on

the property,” Noto says.

Aside from their grid tied solar systems,

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc.specializes in

emergency battery backup solar. “With an

ordinary grid tied solar system, if there is a

power outage, the system shuts down. It can-

not back feed into the grid. Emergency battery

backup systems continue to run, feed the

house, charge the batteries, so that you will

have emergency power at night,” Noto says.

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc. recently did

a project for a family in Sellersville. “I installed

a grid tied solar system on their roof. When

the power went down, they lost their solar sys-

tem. The family had frequent power outages. I

upgraded their system and added another four

and one half kilowatt solar system with emer-

gency battery backup. When the grid goes

down, the family has emergency backup. It

comes on instantaneously. There are no

switches to flip. The circuits in the emergency

backup panel come on in microseconds

when the power goes out. The family has

lights, heat, refrigeration, well water, septic

pump, and so forth. And, they have a zero

power bill,” Noto says.

For empty nesters in Hilltown Township,

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc. installed 20

kilowatts of solar on the home’s roof. They also

installed a 3 kilowatt wind turbine. “Wind tur-

bines provide a lot of energy on gray days when

there is more wind,” Noto says.

Pennsylvania Renewables, Inc. is certi-

fied by the North American Board of

Certified Energy Practitioners (NAB-

CEP), and is a member of the Mid-

Atlantic Renewable Energy Association

(MAREA). They are wind certified by

Bergey WindPower Co. of Oklahoma.

For a free evaluation of your renewable

energy needs, contact Pennsylvania

Renewables, Inc. at 267-377-5499. You can

visit their Website at www.pennsylvaniare-

newables.com. Be sure to take advantage of the

30 percent Federal Residential Renewable

Energy Tax Credit, which expires on

December 31, 2016.


PUBLICATIONS.

Green Energycontinued from page 41

They are mounted to resist 90 miles per hour winds,

and gusts up to 100.



Family owned and operated for over 40years. Carpet, hardwood, laminate, ceramictile. Excellent service, reasonable prices.Free estimates. Let us show you how beau-tiful your home can be with new flooring.

FURNITURE

Hendrixson’s Furniture for Destinctive

Homes, Route 263, Furlong, PA; 215-794-7325; www.hendrixsonsfurniture.com. Hendrixson’s Furniture has been helpinghomeowners create beautiful homes for over40 years. We offer a variety of personalizedservices to make this possible. Our designersare happy to offer each of our customers acomplimentary design consultation in ourstore or in your home. Each design plan beginsby creating a floor layout to establish guide-lines in the selection of your furniture. Bytaking into account your personal tastes andthe circumstances of your existing livingspace, our designers can help you to inte-grate the existing furniture you intend tokeep, and develop the best aesthetic andfunctional plan for your room.

Alegacy Furniture, 1486 S. Hanover St.,Pottstown, PA; 610-970-4340; www.alegacyfurniture.com. Alegacy Furniture is a locally owned furni-ture showroom, dedicated to promoting thebest in American made furniture. Our furni-ture is carefully crafted from Americanhardwoods, sustainably harvested to pro-mote the health of our natural resources.You will find function, value, quality, andstyle in the the many designs that we offer.

HEATING & COOLING

Harris Comfort, Bristol, PA; 215-788-4596;Newtown, PA; 215-968-7477;

www.harriscomfort.com. At Harris Comfort,customer satisfaction is our goal–that's why,when you send us your feedback, we listen!We've improved our online customer portal sys-tem so that customers can enjoy a seamlessexperience with easy-to-use, helpful features forconvenience and comfort year round.

Petro Home Services, Bristol, PA; 800-645-4328; www.petro.com.We offer a full range of services and bnenefitsthat you can’t get from other heating oil compa-nies. Heating oil,propane, equipment sales andservice, plumbing, chimney and generators.

KITCHENS

American Homestead Kitchens, LTD..,

5016 Mechanicsville Road, Mechanicsville,PA; 215-794-0549;www.americanhomesteadkitchens.com. Creating beautiful, inspired kitchens spacesthat relect personal aesthetic and lifestyle.Balancing design expectations with func-tioning requirements while providingexceptional services, product and attentionto detail.

Sweetbriar Cabinetry and Design Inc., 8330Easton Rd., Bldg. D, Ottsville, PA; 610-847-5551; www.sweetbriarcabinetry.com.Sweetbriar Cabinetry & Design, Inc. specializesin Kitchen and Bath design, as well as manyother rooms in the home, including bars,libraries, outdoor kitchens, dressing rooms andhome offices.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Bucks Country Gardens, 1057 N.Eason Rd.,Doylestown, PA; 215-766-7800;www.buckscountrygardens.com.Bucks Country Gardens offers distinctive, highquality outdoor furniture and accessories,



unusual trees, shrubs and ground covers, deco-

rating and gift ideas. Our landscaping design

services include container gardening, landscape

lighting, hardscaping, ponds, and more.

Dear Garden Associates, Inc., 6746 Old

Easton Road, Pipersville, PA; 215-766-8110;

www.deargarden.com.

Dear Garden Associates provides distinctive

design, installation and maintenance services.

We rely on the architecture of the home, its

environment and our clients’ input when creat-

ing our innovative designs and extradordinary

garden spaces.

Flowing Springs Landscape Designs, Inc., 426

Conestoga Road, Malvern, PA; 610-408- 0739;

www.flowingspingsdesign.com.

Flowing Springs is made up of highly experi-

enced craftsmen who plan and build unique

exterior environments for entertaining, family

gatherings, special events and activities, and

peace and tranquility. The company utilizes the

finest natural materials and plants to create new

outdoor elements, like custom patios,

stonewalls, walks and water gardens.

Hertz and Dunn, New Hope, PA; 215-534-

6912; www.hertzanddunnmasonry.com.

Hertz & Dunn is a masonry and landscape

company catering to the residential and com-

mercial communities of Bucks County, PA as

well as Hunterdon County, NJ. Our focus is on

quality natural stone masonry and elegant land-

scapes. With over twenty years experience

Hertz & Dunn Masonry will be able to take

your dreams and turn them into an affordable

reality.

Walter’s Nursery, Inc., 152 River Road, Point

Pleasant, PA; 215-297-5860;

www.waltersnurseryinc.com.

A third generation family run design-build

landscaping firm. Walter’s Nursery specializes in

Antiques at 200 East200 E. Broad St.

215.536.4547

Quakertown, PAAntiques District

[email protected]

East Broad Antiques141 E. Broad St.

215.536.4408

www.200EastBroadAntiques.com

To Advertise inour 2016 guide

contact us215-766-2694

Bucks CountyMagazine



the “Bucks County Look.” In addition to plant-

ings, we do walks, stone walls, patios, garden

sheds, arbors, estate maintenance, and even hol-

iday decorating. Call us for an appointment.

LAWN & GARDEN

Detlan Equipment, Inc., 141 E. Main St.,

Silverdale, PA; 215-257-5177;

www. Detlan.com.

Detlan Equipment is a full service John Deere

dealer. Stop in and let us show you why we were

voted the number one lawn & garden dealer in

the area.

PLUMBING

Cooper Mechanical, Inc., 7696 Easton Road.,

Ottsville, PA; 610-847-2441;

www.coopermech.com.

From our very beginning in 1976, we at Cooper

Mechanical have followed a time-tested princi-

ple–”Customer trust is earned through superior

performance.” By installing quality brands in a

professional manner at a fair price, we have con-

tinued to earn customer loyalty. That loyalty has

helped us grow to where we are today. Our cus-

tomer driven support gives us a solid direction

for today and tomorrow.

ROOFING

Whitney Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., 699

Cedar Lane, Perkasie, PA; 215-429-4098;

www.whitneyroofing.com.

Whitney Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. provides

experienced, high-quality, roofing repair and

restoration services throughout the

Southeastern Pennsylvania & New Jersey

region. We are committed to traditional

craftsmanship and we offer only proven

materials that can withstand the elements

and the tests of time. We specialize in slate

and copper, and are fully qualified to com-

We specialize in potscaping foryour home or business.

Come visit our store and be awed byour selection of home decor, unique

gardening gifts, and a fashion boutique.1814 South Easton Road • Doylestown, PA

215-348-0877 BuckmansHomeandGarden.com

Buckman’s Home & GardenWHERE HOME AND GARDEN COME TOGETHER



plete all of your roofing needs.

SCULPTURE

Steven R. Snyder, 252 Cafferty Road

Pipersville, PA; 610 294-9106

www.stonesculpture.net.

A resident of Bucks County since 1966, Steven

Snyder has been sculpting stone since 1981.

Self-taught, he entered stone sculpting through

his work as a stone mason which he began in

1976. Fascinated by early Pennsylvania stone

architecture, the diversity of indigenous stone in

Bucks County, and the tradition of stone carv-

ing and shaping in this region, he began explor-

ing form and texture through simple carvings in

native stone.

SHUTTERS

Timberlane Shutters, 1-800-250-2221;

www.fineshutters.com/bucks.

At Timberlane, artistry is very important to us

since our shutters are a work-of-art. Our metic-

ulous artisans are embodied with creative

minds, skillful hands, and flawless techniques

that prove to be the best in the business. With

precise attention to detail and the ability to cre-

ate a beautiful shutter from scratch, our Artisans

go above and beyond to make sure Timberlane's

reputation is as it was when we first started...the

leader in the shutter industry.

WINDOW TINTING

Delaware Valley Window Tint, 15 Penn St.,

Hatboro, PA; 215-672-1041.

Filter damaging UV rays wih VISTA window

film. Vista film blocks up to 99.9% of all UVA

and UVB rays, helping to protect your family

and reduce fading of your furnishings, fabrics

and carpets.

Riverwood Blinds Shades N' Shutters LLCBRAND NAME & VALUE PRICED SHUTTERS-BLINDS-SHADES

FACTORY DIRECT VINYL SHUTTERS $18.00 SQ. FT. CALL OR EMAIL FOR QUOTE

BARBARA DAVIS

868 West Street Rd., Suite 334 Warminster, PA 18974



ADVERTISING INDEXAlegacy Furniture

American Homestead Kitchens

Anitques 200

Barb-Lin Carpet One

Bill Vandegrift Appliances

Buckman's Home & Garden

Bucks Country Gardens

Cooper Mechanical

Creative Contracting

Dear Garden

Delaware Valley Window

Father & Son Builders

Flowing Springs Landscape Design

Gemmi Construction, Inc.

Grates n Grills, Inc.

Harris Fuels

Hendrixson's Furniture

Hertz and Dunn Masonry & Landscapes

Holland Floor Covering

JMT Awnings

J.R. Maxwell Builders, Inc.

Makefield Collection

Michael J. Hutchinson Builder

Pennsylvania Renewables

Petro Oil

Quarry Hill Market

Rolf Schroeder General Contractors

Schnabels Woods

Steven Snyder

Superior Woodcraft, Inc.

Sweetbriar Kitchens

Timberlane Shutters

Tobias Design

Walters Nursery

Whitney Roofing

William Draper Cabinetmaker

6

20

93

2

5

94

17

44

8

Inside front cover

19

83

21

7

86

29

15

9

89

83

3

90

1

28

88

82

33

25

95

27

39

50

79

Back cover

94

Inside back cover


Bucks County Home & Garden 2015

Documents

Transcript of Bucks County Home & Garden 2015