Home & Garden 2023 South Valley

Passing the Torch

Rosso’s Furniture continues under next generation

BY ERIK CHALHOUB

Sarah Rosso grew up in her family’s furniture business, starting off as a receptionist 27 years ago as a high schooler who did a lot of what she called the “grunt work.”

She took every opportunity she had to learn the ins and outs of the business, shadowing her father Jaime and uncle Anthony, who opened the store in Gilroy in 1978. She also spent time with the other managers, including Mary Aguire, who Rosso said was a major inspiration for her.

Working her way up at Rosso’s

Furniture, Rosso said she always had a goal in mind.

“Since I was a little girl, I dreamed of becoming the owner one day,” she said. “But did I really believe it would happen?”

That dream has now come true.

Rosso and her business partner Melissa O’Malley recently took over ownership from Jaime and Anthony Rosso, who passed the torch on to the next generation after 45 years.

“It’s an honor, and I’m thankful for the opportunity,” Rosso said. “This is a big animal to

INTO THE FUTURE Melissa O’Malley (left) and Sarah Rosso are the new owners of Rosso’s Furniture, a long-standing local business with locations in Gilroy and Morgan Hill.

Martin Medina Photography

South County home tour spotlights unique local homes and gardens

Four homes with their unique gardens in South Santa Clara County will open their doors to the public during the annual Home + Garden Tour & Boutique on May 12-13.

The Gilroy Assistance League puts on the event, which is its major fundraiser. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to promote the welfare and development of youth in South Santa Clara County. All proceeds from the Home + Garden Tour & Boutique fund their annual grant program.

Due to generous homeowners, participants and event sponsors, the Gilroy Assistance League has been able to grant more than

$350,000 to local youth organizations since 1993.

This year, a short driving tour in rural San Martin and Gilroy leads Home + Garden Tour & Boutique guests to four expansive homes, featuring unique architecture, beautiful vistas and lovely gardens.

The homes included this year offer guests a sightseeing tour of South County’s rolling hills and spacious parcels. Two of the homes are in Hayes Valley Estates, another is located close to CordeValle Golf Course, and the fourth is nestled quietly in Green Valley Estates.

“Visitors are in for a treat this year,” said Lee Blaettler of the Home Procurement Committee. “These four country homes are very different in style, but similar in that they all feature beautiful and interesting

STANDOUT The Gilroy Assistance League’s annual Home + Garden Tour & Boutique will showcase homes in rural San Martin and Gilroy.

design. Along with the amazing homes, visitors will see unique gardens and outdoor features, including a huge custom-designed wine cave and one of the last gardens designed by Gilroy’s own Michael Bonfante.”

At the conclusion of the tour, a Garden Boutique features many local artisans, refreshments, and a no-host wine bar.

“Our guests always enjoy strolling through the lovely gardens as they shop the diverse collection of artists and makers at the Boutique,” said Paula Goldsmith of the Boutique Committee Chair. “They can be assured that their purchases will help support our grant program, as our generous vendors donate a portion of their sales to Gilroy Assistance League. This year, along with returning ‘fan favorites,’ the Boutique will offer new items that will make perfect gifts for Mother’s Day and beyond.”

The Garden Boutique also features food and drink, including sweet Apricot Bars and savory Red Pepper Pesto with Crostini—two of the most popular recipes from the Gilroy Assistance League cookbook (available at the Boutique). The Garden Boutique will be open both May 12 and 13 until 5pm.

On both days, check-in is at the first house from 10am to 2pm. Upon check-in, ticket holders will receive a program with descriptions of the homes and a map with the locations of all tour homes.

Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 at the door. For information and to buy tickets, visit the Gilroy Assistance League website at gilroyassistanceleague.org.

"The members of Gilroy Assistance League are constantly amazed and blessed by the generosity that we receive each year from the community, businesses and guests,” said Karen Isaacson Ginkel, Home Tour co-chair. “This patronage allows us to continue to serve our youth in such a meaningful manner and, for this, we are thankful beyond belief. We invite you to learn more about our organization, or if you would like to make a direct contribution, by visiting our website at GilroyAssistanceLeague.com.”

VISTAS The location of the homes in this year’s event offers a sightseeing tour of South County’s rolling hills.

EXPANSIVE The tour highlights the unique architecture of local homes.

Nonprofit

PlanetSaving Gardens

CLIMATE ADAPTABLE Marwin Gardens in Watsonville, designed by Sandi Martin and Art Winterling, is an example of an ecologically focused garden that includes native and keystone plants.

The award calls for garden designs that are easily replicable, modest in size or designed for intimate neighborhood community use. This fall, Pacific Horticulture feature articles will showcase the winners to make the best design ideas accessible to all gardeners.

“We want to focus on celebrating garden designers and landscape architects who work at a more human scale—it’s about making a difference. These garden ideas that are good for people and the planet can be spread old-school social network style, neighbor influencing neighbor,” Pacific Horticulture Executive Director Sarah Beck said. Designers may submit a garden design under themes such as “Growing for Biodiversity,” “Nature is Good for You” and “Drought and Fire Resilience.” The “Garden Futurist” theme mirrors the organization’s optimistic podcast of the same name that explores urban livability by embracing research, innovation and inclusivity to connect people with nature.

“The question that is my design foundation is how a garden can bring the people, the ecology and the beauty of this land closer together. So, I am most passionate about the Garden Futurist theme,” 2023 Award Committee Member Mary Muszynski said.

For more than 50 years, Pacific Horticulture has remained an authoritative source for Pacific region gardening information. The goal for the next 50 years is to increase the number of beautiful, resilient gardens and landscapes that benefit nature and people in the Pacific region.

CONTRIBUTED ARTICLE

Those who are replacing lawns in favor of plants that are climate adapted and welcome wildlife are on trend with a design movement that Pacific Horticulture is promoting through its inaugural Design Futurist Award.

This new idea of garden beauty weighs the health of ecosystems, people and climate resilience with traditional ideas about colorful plants and stylish design.

Design Futurist Award submissions are open until July 26 and a panel of celebrated design and plant experts will select a winner.

Whether you’re a gardener who decided to ditch those toxic sprays in favor of adorable bumblebees bouncing into your flowers, or a designer who likes to use climate-forward methods and incorporate native plants, the Design Futurist Award might just be the inspiration you need.

For information, visit pacifichorticulture.org/design-futurist.

launches award for new garden design concepts

Caitlin Atkinson/Under Western Skies

swallow. We’re excited to learn as we go. There’s always going to be those little bumps, but I call them opportunities for growth.”

Rosso’s Furniture has two locations: 6881 Monterey Road in Gilroy and 212 Tennant Ave. in Morgan Hill. The stores offer furniture, mattresses and other home decor, while employing more than 50 furniture professionals and interior designers.

The stores are also nearing the end of a major sale to commemorate Jaime’s and Anthony’s retirement.

The Rossos entered the furniture industry quite unexpectedly, the family recounts. In the 1960s, Jaime Rosso Sr., while running a jewelry store in San Bernardino, ordered a couch for his home. That couch, however, was delivered outside of his store, and was too large to fit in the building, so it stayed outside.

Customers inquired if the couch was for sale, and after rejecting offers, Rosso Sr. eventually sold it. He later sold more couches, and ended up shutting down the jewelry store and opening Rosso’s

When Jaime Rosso Jr. and his wife Evelia moved to Gilroy, he noticed a lack of home furnishing stores in the area. Jaime Jr. and Anthony followed in their father’s footsteps by opening their own Rosso’s Furniture on First Street in

The Rosso brothers are known for being active members in their community, volunteering, sponsoring, donating and advocating for schools, teachers and students alike, and that is something Sarah Rosso said will continue with the new ownership of the business.

“Giving back is a big part of who we are,” she said.

Sarah Rosso studied interior design, business and communications at San Jose State University, having already gained real-world experience from working in her family’s store.

When her father and uncle began talking about retirement, Rosso said she put together a proposal for taking over the business. It was during this time when O’Malley, who has worked with the Rossos and other furniture retailers, approached Rosso about partnering in the endeavor.

“The stars were aligning,” Rosso said. “She’s had extensive knowledge and experience in the furniture industry herself. Between her and I, we both bring something to the table. We both complement each other.”

The co-owners are now preparing for what Rosso refers to as “the new birth of Rosso’s,” by implementing a number of new ideas. Among those, the business plans to launch a new website soon to bolster its e-commerce presence.

Rosso said the business’ customer base stretches from south San Jose to Monterey County, as well as Santa Cruz and San Benito counties.

“The customer experience is everything to us,” she said. “We want them to feel welcome from the moment they walk through the door to delivery.”

It’s all part of the culture that was championed by the business’ founders, Rosso noted.

“I highly respect them for working so hard to build their business,” she said. “They deserve their retirement. They deserve to enjoy the fruits of their life. They worked really hard and now they need time for themselves.”

‘The customer experience is everything to us. We want them to feel welcome from the moment they walk through the

Mother's Day

Charity Champagne Breakfast

At the Gilroy Elks Lodge on the Hill

2765 Hecker Pass Highway, Gilroy CA, 95020

Sunday, May 14, 2023. 8AM - 12:30PM

Proceeds go to support Elks National Foundation

Adults $25, Children 3-12 $11, Under 3 FREE

Serving cooked-to-order omelets, scrambled eggs, hash browns, pancakes, sausage, bacon, fresh fruit, coffee, milk, juice, Martinelli's Sparkling Cider, and Unlimited Champagne

DON'T FORGET ABOUT OUR FULL BAR WITH SPECIALTY BLOODY MARYS & MIMOSAS!

Pre-payment (by Friday, May 12) is required for groups of 8 or more.

For reservations call (408) 842-9397

Open to Elks Members, their Guests, and the General Public

Unexpected Design

Bathrooms are frequently used spaces in a home that are brimming with design potential. Plus, these smaller rooms are ideal to experiment with new aesthetics and unique features. Incorporating unexpected elements in your bathroom’s design can add character and interest, while still creating a functional space you'll love.

Consider these tips to help you incorporate unexpected design into your own bathroom:

Experimental color: Rather than traditional white or neutral color schemes, try strategically incorporating rich colors or patterns. Colorful tiles, a bold accent wall or brightly hued towels are just a few examples. Wallpaper is another way to add color and pattern, with modern options available appropriate for the more humid bathroom environment. Not only will pops of color make the space more visually interesting, but it will also create a joyful atmosphere in the bathroom.

Glam glass: The sink is the ideal

location to feature this luxe material. Inspired by a Champagne glass, the Salute vessel sink by Kohler is artistic and elegant—and at 15 inches is ideal for small spaces, making an impression extending well beyond its stature. If you prefer an undermount, rectangular glass sink, the Yepsen Artist Editions sink is for you. Reminiscent of the carved textures on marble and architectural facades, it's available in both translucent and opaque colorways.

Mixed materials: Blending complementary textures and materials adds depth to a space in a subtle yet unexpected way. For example, pairing a sleek and modern shower with a vintage clawfoot tub can create a unique and eclectic feel. Adding natural elements such as wood or stone can also add interest to the room, creating a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere.

Modern metals: The right metals elevate and define a faucet and bathroom accessories, refining its overall look. Thanks to the Kohler Finish Program, you don't have to feel limited in your choices. The program

offers eight key finishes across product categories, including matte black, brushed modern brass, French gold, vibrant titanium and more. Plus, these finishes resist corrosion and tarnishing to ensure enduring beauty for years to come.

Curated decor: A great way to create an unexpected design in your bathroom is by curating interesting decorations. Look for pieces that show off your style, but be sure not to go overboard with the clutter. One or two pieces of art or sculpture are plenty for the average bathroom space. A pro tip: Use walls and vertical spaces for art rather than taking up valuable countertop space.

Statement pieces: Invest in remarkable pieces that attract the eye, like the new Aureus Artist Editions Vessel sink that mixes two design inspirations—Asian art and marble. The Asian art Kintsukuroi, which means golden repair, is the process of fixing broken pottery with lacquer resin dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver

EXPERIMENT

Incorporating unexpected elements in your bathroom’s design can add character and interest.

or platinum. In looking at marble, the sink draws inspiration from the natural veining patterns. Combined, these influences evoke contemporary design with bold veins and subtle hints of gold and brown.

Elevated lighting: Instead of relying only on harsh overhead lighting, consider incorporating more ambient lighting throughout the bathroom space. This could be achieved by adding new lighting elements or installing dimmer switches. Flexible lighting options in visually appealing fixtures create an environment that is as fashionable as it is functional. Whether you want soft light for a long soak or bright light to prep for the day, you will have options.

When it comes to home design, bathrooms are just as important as any other room. By incorporating unexpected design in these frequently used rooms, you'll create spaces that reflect your style and intrigue visitors. With a little creativity and effort, the bathroom can become a stunning space in your home.

—Brandpoint Content

Bathrooms have the potential to add unique character

DIY Decor

Project ideas bring new life to homes

ore and more homeowners are taking on the challenge of renovating their homes. According to Statista, homeowners have spent more time and money on home improvement projects over the last two years than ever before. While you can hire someone else to renovate your home, you can do many DIY projects without any advanced home improvement skills and knowledge. Check out these four simple DIY home renovation projects that can quickly spruce up your home’s interior.

Update fixtures

Small but purposeful changes can make a big impact on your home’s decor. An easy and cost-effective DIY project you can do to refresh your spaces is to replace the knobs, handles and pulls on your cabinets, drawers and doors.

This design change can be as simple as picking fixtures with different metals or finishes, such as switching out silver kitchen cabinet hardware for brass or gold hues or opting for more colorful and interesting knobs and handles. If your rooms have standard white switch plate covers, consider replacing them with decorative ones.

Paint cabinets

Paint can do a lot to change the look of your home. Instead of taking on a large project like repainting every room or the exterior of your home, you can paint smaller furnishings like kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

Repainting cabinets is an approachable DIY home update that can generally be done in a weekend. If you want to brighten up your kitchen, choose a soft green, bright blue or rich yellow to paint your cabinets. For your bathroom cabinets, find deep reds or dark grays and blues for a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.

Put up wallpaper

Wallpaper is a fun alternative to repainting a room. Whether you wallpaper a whole room or just one wall as an accent, you can refresh the look of your bedroom, living room, office or kitchen. There are many wallpaper options to choose from, but if you want something unique that truly expresses your personal style, consider ordering custom wallpaper.

Whether you choose an image or illustration that is special to you or a bespoke pattern, you can quickly change the look and feel of your room. To create your custom wallpaper, make sure you find a business that uses reliable large format printers, like the new Colorado M Series printers from Canon, which use a unique and robust UVgel ink set which even includes white ink for a very unique and wide wallpaper offering.

The Colorado M Series printers can help users create wallpapers with rich color consistency in custom sizes and lengths in matte or gloss finish so you can revamp your home’s interior with high-quality wallcoverings.

Install shelving

Many houses don't have enough space for all your possessions. You can add more space and visual interest to your home by installing shelving. Installing shelves may seem a bit intimidating, but it's easier than you may think.

You can install a simple, rustic wood plank on metal or wood brackets and arrange books, trinkets or other small objects on them. If you need a more robust storage system, look for fixed bracket or adjustable shelving to organize heavier objects like kitchen appliances, electronics and lamps.

Changing the ambiance and design of your home doesn't have to be an expensive or time-consuming endeavor. Let these four DIY project ideas inspire your future renovations so you can create a space that you can truly call home.

—Brandpoint Content

For San Benito County Urban Residents Only

Distinguished as an industry trailblazer in Santa Clara County, Coldwell Banker Realty agent Lori Robitaille  Biasca has a finger on the pulse of the real estate market and personally guides both buyers and sellers through a seamless process with care and a great attention to detail.

Lori earned her real estate license in 2014 and is a native of Santa Clara County, well-versed in its rich history and culture. Serving as the 2023 President for the South County REALTORS® Alliance (SCRA), allows Lori to be up to the minute on the market, community  and deepens her relationships with industry members. Lori has a knack for listening, informing and educating, as well as developing creative data-driven solutions, making the process smooth.

As a testament to her accomplished methods, Lori was voted South County REALTOR® of the Year for 2020. Committed to excellence, Lori leverages the cutting-edge technology of the Coldwell Banker brand to provide a comprehensive suite of services. For buyers, Lori considers local amenities, schools and budgets to curate home searches. For sellers, Lori launches extensive marketing plans that provide  wide-scale print and digital exposure, targeting assets at the most likely buyer demographic.

Consistently a top producer in her o ce, it’s no wonder Lori is a member of the Coldwell Banker® International President's Elite Circle, which recognizes the top 3% of agents in the network worldwide.

Lori Robitaille Biasca would love to pave an informed pathway and lead you through a stress-free real estate journey as a dedicated and trusted advisor.

Give Lori a call today!

Building Blocks

Peninsula Building Materials celebrates 100 years

CONTRIBUTED ARTICLE

Peninsula Building Materials Co. (PBM) continues to beat the odds of many family-owned businesses. Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the Morey family has been devoted to providing materials for masonry contractors in Northern California for more than a century.

PBM began as a niche building materials supplier and today has extended to include four generations across five Bay Area locations, including in San Martin.

At the outset, Harry B. Morey and his sons Harry Jr. and John W. began contracting as “Harry B. Morey and Sons.” In the 1920s, the

founders saw a need to supply base rock to construct roads and infrastructure. Quality roadways were necessary to meet the demands of new motorists and the rising industries.

With this in mind, they opened their first yard on El Camino Real in Menlo Park in 1923 and renamed the company what it is today: Peninsula Building Materials. From its inception, they supplied many of the materials that built Stanford University, St. Patrick’s Seminary and Sacred Heart Convent as well.

Later, with the end of World War II and a growing national highway system, PBM saw a surge

ART OF MASONRY Peninsula Building Materials’ Mountain View showroom displays the various products it offers.

in demand for building materials. The South Bay was transforming from orchards to blossoming neighborhoods and technology parks, later coined “Silicon Valley.”

To accommodate these needs, PBM opened four more locations from 1968-2008. The four yards call Redwood City, Santa Clara, San Martin and Livermore home today.

In 2006, Marty Morey wanted to build a showroom to showcase the art of masonry, a craft that has been around for thousands of years. In addition, PBM wanted to showcase the vast product lines it offered in a finished state to make it easier for buyers to visualize products installed.

Marty visited showrooms, mostly on the East Coast, to collect inspiration to build “the crown jewel of showrooms.”

This spring PBM will celebrate its 100th anniversary in their Masonry Showroom. Joining them will be long-time customers, vendors and business associates.

For generations, the Morey family has owned and operated a business that values dependable service, quality materials and strong relationships with vendors and customers. They credit their indispensable staff and customers whose loyalty, friendship and commitment have been major keys of success to a company that has continued to defy odds.

HISTORICAL Peninsula Building Materials opened its first yard in Menlo Park in 1923.

EARLY DAYS John, Joe and Kip Morey are shown in an undated photo.

Courtesy of Peninsula Building Materials

Serving the Monterey Bay Region

Residential • Agricultural • Commercial • Industrial

FOR SALE: 101 Aviation Way

Premier Flex Commercial

Chuck Allen (831) 818-1069 chuckallenpginc@gmail.com

BRE#00357826

Ramona Allen (831) 588-1097 rallensdb@gmail.com

Real Estate Administrator

193 Leavesley RD. #160 • Gilroy CA, 95020

Jon Chown (831) 869-2484 jchown@kw.com

BRE#02040730

Nick Kambic (831) 359-6164 nick@theportolagroup.com

BRE#02019111

Building on a 2.5 acre lot with 50+ parking spaces including truck and trailer. Clean Class A building with State-of-the-art construction and over 20,550 SqFt. Includes: offices, conference rooms, showroom,

restrooms, 6 truck bays with double, roll-up 16-ft. doors, drive-through truck/car wash with oil water separator, a 26-foot clearance height and lots of parking. $8,000,000

FOR SALE:

189 Hughes Rd

Located in the sunny Pajaro Valley foothills, this rolling 21+ acre family farm has a 2-bedroom, 1-bath house, as well as outbuildings for storage. It is surrounded by grazing acres and a year-round pond, greenhouses and multiple stalls for your head of cattle or horses. $1,950,000

FOR SALE:

110 Crest Drive

Great investment opportunity - an incomeproducing property that can be split into three parcels (two 5-acre parcels and a 20-acre parcel) with homes built on each and all would have views of the ocean and within a mile from a state beach. $3,500,000

Greenhouse Properties Available

133 Hughes Road: For LEASE

300,000 SF of space permitted and licensed for Cannabis available, good water, concrete aisles, 10-feet gutter height, 1,600 amps of power + generators, more. 25 cents/SF + license fee

265 Coward Road: For LEASE

328,000 SF of space permitted for Cannabis. Black out shades, 6,000+ amps of power, good water, drying rooms, security fencing, cameras, paved aisles, dep curtains, more! NEGOTIABLE

489 San Andreas Road: For LEASE

Jonathan Rossi (831) 265-2211 jon@theportolagroup.com

BRE#01988429

150,000 to about 1,000,0000 SF of space available for non-cannabis use. Access to excellent reverse osmosis water system included. Currently there are 1,250 amps of power, along with boilers to heat the greenhouses with radiant heat. 10 cents per SF

www.chuckallenproperties.com

HORTICULTURE

UNUSUAL TIMES Late wintry weather delays early bloom.

some cultivars of apples are barely satisfied with the more typical local chill. They may perform better this year, after a cooler chill. Flowering cherry, purple leaf plum, lilac, wisteria and many others may do the same. Stone fruits might be more productive.

Several plants do succumb to frost, though. Some that typically die back but then recover may not recover this year. For some, the unusually cold frost was lethal. Others rotted as a result of lingering cool dampness. Kaffir lily that is blooming well now may succumb to rot later. Canna that grew early only to succumb to later frost should recover well, though.

Some plants that endured frost and saturation last winter might delay their spring bloom. Roses could bloom better but also later, both as a result of cooler than typical chill. Some early spring bulbs that bloomed when they should suffered for it. Rain and wind knocked them into the mud. Later bulbs might avoid a similar fate by delaying their bloom slightly. Fewer conform to a comparably strict schedule.

Highlight: star magnolia

Excessive Chill

BY TONY TOMEO

Winter weather lingers into spring

Winter was epic! Snow was more abundant than since 1976. Rain was more continuous than since 1982. Frost was colder than since 1990. All of this happened within this same winter! Californians generally appreciate rain and snow, and tolerate typically minor chill. Chaparral and desert climates here rarely get

much. However, this weather is excessive!

Furthermore, such excessively cold or wet weather was unconducive to gardening. Most of us wanted to stay inside. Home gardens consequently endured neglect in conjunction with extreme weather. Regardless of the current weather conditions, winter is technically done. Now that it is spring,

gardens should begin their systematic processes of recovery.

This may entail more effort for those who enjoy gardening than for the associated plants. Most plants are resilient to harsher winter weather than they endured here recently. That is how they survive other less temperate climates. Some may respond favorably to more thorough than typical grooming. Some might prefer later grooming while they regenerate.

Chill can actually enhance performance of some plants that prefer cooler winter weather. For example,

Unusually wintry weather did not seem to delay star magnolia, Magnolia stellata, bloom. Such bloom can begin immediately prior to March, or finish immediately afterward. Yet, it typically occurs at about the same time annually within any particular situation. Few here were notably later than they were last year. Bloom lasts only for about two weeks, though.

Nonetheless, bright white bloom is spectacular prior to foliation of otherwise bare stems. Formerly rare cultivars with blushed or pastel pink bloom are becoming popular. Delicate floral fragrance is proportionate to profusion of bloom. Individual flowers are about three inches wide with many narrow tepals. Deciduous foliage appears as bloom deteriorates.

Star magnolia may be more comparable to large shrubbery than small trees. Most do not grow much taller than six feet. Some of the largest may be twice as tall and broad, with a few trunks. Old trunks and branches can be somewhat sculptural. Bark is pallid, like that of fig trees. As their plump floral buds begin to burst, bare stems are conducive to forcing. Tony Tomeo can

Adding Value

Homeowners favoring renovation over relocation

REIMAGINED

Fluctuating interest rates and an ever-changing housing market have inspired many homeowners to reimagine their space, favoring renovation over relocation. Upgrades not only make a home more attractive—they also often bring innovative, low-maintenance solutions, making your most familiar surroundings feel beautiful and comfortable.

With an endless supply of home improvement shows and picturesque inspiration on social media, it can be tricky knowing where to start. That's why we've come up with four simple ways to make your home design dreams come true—while adding lasting value to your property.

Look for beautiful, durable surfaces

We all know kitchens and bathrooms can make or break the first impression. These spaces are the heart of the home, where we gather,

Use lighting to make your space shine

Home lighting is a powerful, often-overlooked design element, which can help show off your other decorative finishes, like surfacing or furniture. Luckily, today’s options give homeowners myriad choices to make any room stand out, from fixtures to lightbulbs. Well-placed recessed lighting is always a functional option, but many contemporary designers recommend creating focal points with bold, sculptural pendant lights. You can also try playing with materials that include natural textures, glass or mixed metals, especially in settings like a sunroom or reading nook. Whether you're going for a traditional look or a mid-century modern feel, thoughtful lighting that accompanies your style is well worth the time and effort.

Find photo-worthy finishes

work and play every day. So, these rooms need surfaces that are beautiful and strong. Let's be honest— it's more inspiring to cook when you don't have to worry about stains and scratches. That's why fresh, lasting countertops, flooring, backsplashes and even cabinet cladding are renovation must-haves.

For a transformation that’s timeless, consider Cosentino's new Silestone Ethereal line. These marble-inspired colorways can elevate surfaces in any space, but they’re durable enough for everyday use— making them perfect for bath or kitchen applications. Manufactured with HybriQ Technology, this sustainable product composition uses 99% recycled water and 100% renewable electric energy.

The eco-friendly, stylish collection comes in six unique color selections—two of which are available exclusively at Home Depot:

• Ethereal Indigo: Striking navy veins on a white canvas bring color and dimension for a modern take on marble.

• Ethereal Cloud: White cloudlike patterns on a gray backdrop make this sleek countertop the perfect neutral tone for any kitchen.

Build your outdoor space to last

When it comes to the outdoors, you want materials that can withstand the elements—like Dekton. This carbon-neutral product has an ultra-durable surface made of raw materials including quartz, glass and porcelain. The low water absorbing surface is resistant to UV rays, scratches, stains and thermal shock, so it’s ideal for flooring, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and more. Three new color designs are now available at Home Depot, making it easy to customize your space, whether you prefer Dekton Laos, a smooth matte finish perfect for industrial-inspired rooms; Dekton Rem, which combines marble-inspired neutrals with gold; or Dekton Soke, a colorway with rich, textured grays that work well in any space.

Don't forget the finishing touch! While it may seem like a small upgrade, details like faucet or door knob finishes have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your home. Simply put, finishes elevate functional elements to stunning accents. Don't hide handles and faucets— instead, use matte black, brushed metal or even gold to complement or contrast those design features. And don't be afraid to mix and match styles based on each room’s cabinetry, countertops or wall color. It's the perfect way to add personal touches to each space.

No matter where you start, you can bring your home to the next level. From installing new surfacing for countertops or vanities to perfect fixtures, there are plenty of creative ways to enhance your home and create lasting value. By choosing high-quality, durable features, you’re not just building a more beautiful home—you’re creating a more effortless and enjoyable lifestyle, now and for the future.

For more design inspiration that elevates your space, visit Cosentino.com. —Brandpoint Content

From installing new surfacing for countertops or vanities to perfect fixtures, there are plenty of creative ways to enhance your home and create lasting value.