In 2021 I decided I HAD to move. Not out of Scotch Plains, but out of my house. I mean, yes, I loved my neighbors, the location was great, home prices were at a record high and inventory a record low. But none of that mattered because I hated my hideous floors and therefore, I MUST move! It did not take long before I returned to rational thought, and shortly thereafter I had beautiful wide-planked hardwood throughout my house. Why do we wait until we are preparing our houses for sale to invest in the upgrades we can enjoy while living there? It makes sense to put money into your home to increase its value - but so does loving your home while YOU are the owner.
Christine Escribano, CEO and Principal Designer for Cherry Home Designs is passionate about helping her clients transform their spaces to “live their story”. She has created a full service design construct and build team that includes her husband and business partner, John PIzzi - President of Casa Construction & Development; and Gene Salerno, Owner of Wild Edge Designs. This “Dream Team” works with clients to visualize, design and construct interior and exterior projects that bring value to their homes - but also to their lives.
It is easy to like this team. They love what they do. They are exceptionally talented. And they're just plain cool. It is no wonder that small projects inevitably turn into large multi-room engagements. Once a client sees the results that can be achieved, they want more and a long term relationship is formed. This is true of a recently completed project in Westfield.
The Spier family loved their home but had a major issue: the kitchen simply did not function. They had previously engaged Christine to help restore a treasured antique and knew her team was the right one to take on this project: A complete kitchen transformation. A new layout was designed that made sense and created flow. The pantry was transformed into a wine bar with a unique “style wink” that was created through custom artwork tile. Showstoppers like Taj Majal quartzite backsplash, walnut countertops and sage cabinets delivered the kitchen of the Spier family’s dreams.
When the Russo family was ready to renovate their home they too hired the dream team! They shared the details of their daily life with three children, and a love for entertaining. It did not take long for them to realize that to live THEIR story, they would need more than their originally planned kitchen renovation. The first step was to take down the wall separating the dining room and kitchen to improve flow. Next, doors were installed off the kitchen leading to a new expansive deck that serves to maximize entertaining space. Existing hardwood floors were refinished with a light matte stain that brightens the entire house and is easy to maintain. Much needed function was provided with the addition of a butler’s pantry housing a dedicated coffee bar and custom built storage seating. They even raised the ceiling by 7 inches. Design elements helped to showcase these improvements: Gallery walls, portrait murals, under cabinet lighting, painted fireplaces, hardware, upholstery, and of course, throw pillows.
You can find Christine, John and Gene at their new Scotch Plains location, 1737 East 2nd Street. Experience the store by viewing pieces in progress, finish walls and an extensive material library. Don't wait until you are ready to move, live your story and love your home today!
“We couldn't be happier with Christine and John. From the design process through construction and decorating they were with us every step of the way. They truly care about the customer and the end result was amazing!" - The Spiers