(ARA) This year, bring luxury to your home by creating a resort-like outdoor environment that will both enhance your enjoyment and improve the value of your house. Improving your outdoor living space continues to be a good investment. Great outdoor living spaces continue to top the list of most-desired features for both homeowners and potential buyers. And for what you might spend on a luxury vacation, it’s possible to create your own personal oasis of luxury that you can enjoy for the entire summer, rather than just for a week. Not sure where to begin? Add homestyle versions of the high-priced appointments such as pools and wall murals that Decorating & backyard Simple fixes deliver resort style to your own Spring Home Improvement you would find in luxury resorts around the world. A pool is a must-have for a high-end resort. Thanks to kits that include everything from the pool walls and liner to the filter, it’s possible to cheaply install an above-ground pool in your backyard provided local regulations allow it. Prices range from a few hundred dollars for basic pools to a few thousand for more upscale versions. If a pool is out of your budget, or prohibited in your neighborhood, or your yard is just too small for it, consider adding a different kind of water feature that takes up less room. Modestly sized fountains, rain chains, even a bird bath, can all deliver a restful mood and the charming sound of flowing water. If you don’t have a deck or patio, adding one is a great investment. You can go totally over the top - if that’s in your budget - or start with a modest deck that can be expanded later. If you already have a deck, consider upgrading it, along with the regular seasonal maintenance you already do. You can add designer touches like metal balusters on railings and decorative caps on posts. Accent lighting, built-in seating, and firepits also enhance a deck’s appeal. Resort designers recognize the power of a wall mural to transform a space from beautiful to exotic. Virtually any smooth outdoor surface can host a wall mural, thanks to easy-to-mount wallpaper murals available from websites like www.MuralsYourWay.com. Adding a mural to an architectural niche, outdoor wall, or a slid- May 19, 2010 THE VILLADOM TIMES II & IV • Page 27 Emil Rostello Jr., an award-winning landscape designer, has joined the team at Jacobsen Landscape Design and Construction, Midland Park. He brings with him years of experience in landscape design, including owning and operating his own landscape services business. Rostello has significant experience in all aspects of the design/build process, with a specialty of designing deer-resistant landscapes. In addition to his design and service responsibilities in the Saddle River, Ho-Ho-Kus and Upper Saddle River area, he is serving as lead designer and organizer of Jacobsen Landscape’s installation at the 2010 Designer Showhouse of New Jersey, located in Saddle River. A lifelong artist and outdoorsmen, Rostello graduated from Delaware Valley College in Pennsylvania with a degree in environmental design and ornamental horticulture. He has received a number of indus- Designer joins Jacobsen team ing glass door can create a conversation piece for outdoor gatherings, establish a mood for your outdoor space, and convey continuity between outdoor and indoor decor. Outdoor furniture is one area where it pays to spend a little more to get a durable, well-made set that you love. For maximum luxury, you’ll need more than just a table and four chairs. Consider love seats, lounges and ottomans to impart depth, variety, and comfort to your outdoor seating arrangement. If you already have a well-made set that just needs a little sprucing up, invest in quality new cushions. Metal sets can easily be freshened with a coat of spray paint and wooden sets can be refinished or painted to look like new. With a few custom design touches, you can turn your outdoor living space into your own personal resort. Emil Rostello, Jr. try awards, including a gold medal from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society for residential design. His work has been featured in the prestigious Demuth Garden Tour. For more information, phone (201) 8911199 or visit www.jacobsenlandscape.com. ������������������� �������������������������� ready • set • GROW! Caring for outstanding gardens for over 22 years ONE SOURCE FOR ALL YOUR LANDSCAPE NEEDS SPRING IS HERE! ... START THE SEASON’S “TO-DO LIST” AND SAVE SOME GREEN! 2 Free fertilizer applications. Discount applies towards New Full Service Contracts only. New customers only. SAVE 20% Off Spring Cleanup Serving All Your Air Conditioning & Heating Needs Prompt, Reliable Service You Can Depend On, Plus The Personal Attention You Deserve. • Oil & Gas Heat Systems Serviced & Installed • Automatic Fuel Oil Deliveries • Tank Insurance Available 24 Hour Air TRUST YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES TO OUR FULL SERVICE MAINTENANCE, CONSTRUCTION, AND DESIGN COMPANY WITH ORGANIC LAWN AND TREE CARE, IRRIGATION AND LIGHTING. COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL INSURED BONDED MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LEISURE TIME CALL FOR FREE CONSULTATION 201-447-LAWN (5296) www.landscapeworks.net Member N.J.L.C.A & N.J. Turf Grass Assoc. Home Improvement Contractor #13V01991900 it n tion ConsdInsiollaing ta , Sale & Service ����������������������� 201-891-1000 Emergency Service