Tag: new jersey

Memorial Day: Visiting the Veterans Memorial Home in Paramus, NJ

Peter Salerno Inc.

Memorial Day: Visiting the Veterans Memorial Home in Paramus, NJ

(NOTE: This article was originally published long before the COVID-19 pandemic, when a visit like this was encouraged, healthy and appropriate. We thought that during a very unique 2020 Memorial Day Weekend, it would be nice to re-visit this trip to the Paramus, New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home.)

Courage is always in style. When Peter Salerno and his daughter Gabrielle had the opportunity to visit the Veterans Memorial Home in Paramus, New Jersey, it was an offer that they couldn’t pass up.

A veteran of the United States Navy, Peter Salerno (owner of Peter Salerno Inc., the most award-winning North American custom kitchen and bath design firm of the 21st century) was humbled and honored to spend time with the residents of the Veterans Memorial Home. Operated by the State of New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home is a living love letter to those who have sacrificed bravely for the United States.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

Peter and Gabrielle experienced an informative, life-changing tour, led expertly by two individuals: Anthony, the Home’s Recreation Director, and Susan, its Volunteer Director.

The mission statement of the Veterans Memorial Homes of New Jersey:

To honor and serve the Military Veteran, their spouses and Gold Star Parents by consistently providing the highest quality of resident directed long term care by maintaining excellence in personal services and treatment through professional collaboration, innovation and dedication; in a setting that promotes dignity and independence…. Our Homes provide a dignified environment to Veterans who have honorably served our country, and are now in need for nursing home services.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

The Veterans Memorial Home is a beautiful facility, but the true beauty of the Home is its residents. The oldest residents are 102 years old and are proud veterans of World War II. Meeting these individuals was a privilege that Peter Salerno states he “will never forget”.

The benefits of the Home extend from veterans to their spouses, as well as to qualifying Gold Star parents of military veterans.

After his tour, Peter Salerno signed up to become a volunteer at the Paramus Veterans Memorial Homes. Peter and his family encourage citizens of New Jersey to explore becoming volunteers at these valuable Homes – volunteer efforts are greatly needed, and any amount of time one can dedicate is of tremendous value.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

It was a day of gratitude for Peter Salerno and Gabrielle Mayer. Thank you to the volunteers who guided this wonderful tour, the NJ Veterans Affairs Department for housing our invaluable veterans and military heroes, and to the veterans of the United States Military for all they have given our country.

For more information about the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home and all the Homes in New Jersey, please visit the official website of NJ Veterans Affairs.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

Closed for Coronavirus: A Love Letter To Peter Salerno’s Design Showroom

Peter Salerno Inc.

Closed for Coronavirus: A Love Letter To Peter Salerno’s Design Showroom

We hope you are healthy, safe and have the essentials you need during this trying, odd time in our lives. COVID-19 (the novel coronavirus) has turned the world into something none of us expected just a few weeks ago. And yet, “shelter in place” is the new normal. “Social distancing” is the new form of interaction.

And we miss each other.

(L to R) Anthony, Gabrielle, Tracy and Peter Salerno in the Peter Salerno Inc. showroom.(Photo: Andrew Bisdale)
(L to R) Anthony, Gabrielle, Tracy and Peter Salerno in the Peter Salerno Inc. showroom.(Photo: Andrew Bisdale)

This isn’t an article talking about the beautiful facets of Peter Salerno Inc.’s award-winning design showroom in Wyckoff, New Jersey. This isn’t a letter pining for Swarovski crystal, Miele appliances, and state-of-the-art accoutrements. That would be tone-deaf and insincere.

We miss the Peter Salerno Inc. showroom for what it represents.

The showroom is nothing without the people inside it. The social gatherings. The birthday celebrations for Peter, his family and friends. The cooking classes with culinary specialists like Chef Michael Latour. The special events like the art exhibit with Broadfoot + Broadfoot.

Larissa Taboryski of Purcell Murray and La Cornue prepares a cooking class at Peter Salerno Inc.'s showroom.
Larissa Taboryski of Purcell Murray and La Cornue prepares a cooking class at Peter Salerno Inc.’s showroom.

On a normal day, we marvel at the showpiece La Cornue statement kitchen, with Flamberge rotisserie and Grand Palais range. Today, we think about having an espresso at the display island with Anthony Salerno, or a Pellegrino with Gabrielle Salerno-Mayer. We remember watching as Peter Salerno used his own showroom kitchen to create lunch for his staff and loved ones, and thinking how much care he put into everything he does.

We miss all of it.

Some articles are created on a directive. We’re given a theme, a collection of media and a statement to drive home. This is not one of those articles. Today, we simply can’t wait for the moment we can reconvene in Peter’s showroom. To the world, it might be a KBIS Most Innovative Showroom award winner. To us, it’s a gathering place for wonderful people.

There will be updates about the re-opening of the Peter Salerno Inc. showroom to the public in the coming weeks, and we will certainly report that to you.

In the meantime, if you would like design advice or guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic, Peter Salerno and his team are offering remote “Design Online!” assistance, complete with a complimentary first virtual meeting.

Small Business Saturday: Your Shopping Guide to Bergen County, NJ

Peter Salerno Inc.

Small Business Saturday: Your Shopping Guide to Bergen County, NJ

Avoid the madness of Black Friday this year – there are amazing deals and incredible products available to you right in your backyard!

Saturday, November 30, 2019 is Small Business Saturday – the day when brick-and-mortar local businesses encourage you to get out and shop in your area’s finest small businesses. Lest you think that Small Business Saturday is a “small fry event”, think again! 2019 marks the 10th annual Small Business Saturday, and is observed nationwide by the great small businesses that make America strong!

Design Your Lifestyle is based in northern New Jersey, one of America’s true hotbeds of thriving small business. While many associate our area with malls and large commerce centers, northern New Jersey’s backbone is truly its small businesses.

We love Bergen County, New Jersey’s gorgeous main street and downtown shopping areas, which offer fantastic Small Business Saturday escapes from overcrowded malls and “big business” storefronts. From Wyckoff to Westwood, Ridgewood to hidden gems along Routes 4 and 17, Bergen County offers a plethora of amazing shopping options this Small Business Saturday!

Here are a few of our personal favorite “hidden gems” for you to check out on November 30th, as Small Business Saturday returns to Bergen County!

Small Business Saturday: Bergen County, NJ Shopping

1. Peter Salerno Inc. Home Design Shops (511 Goffle Road, Wyckoff, NJ)

Anchored by a showroom that 201 Magazine called “a wonderland under one roof”, this 3-shop design storefront is a must-visit for anyone considering a new home, home remodel, or update to their custom kitchen or bath design. Located just off Routes 208 and 4 in Wyckoff, NJ, the Peter Salerno Inc. Home Design Shops are an all-in-one center for home design enthusiasts.

511 Goffle Road, Wyckoff, NJ: A home design paradise!
Peter Salerno Inc. Home Design Shops, in beautiful Wyckoff, NJ!

The journey begins at Peter Salerno Inc., winner of the most national design awards since 2002. Peter and his team specialize in custom kitchen and bath design, ranging from classic to contemporary, traditional to transitional. The gorgeous showroom (winner of KBIS’ Most Innovative Showroom award) features kitchen, bath and bar designs. Peter Salerno Inc. also specializes in lounges, wine cellars, and “man caves” for the most discerning of customers.

Adjacent to Peter Salerno Inc.’s showroom are Stratta, the Tile Boutique and Oberg & Lindquist. Stratta is a jaw-dropping center for amazing artisan tile, ranging from fine marble to quirky art pieces to the latest in “green” tile (cork, faux wood, etc.). Oberg & Lindquist is a one-stop small business destination for home appliances, including some of the finest names in the industry – Wolf, Sub-Zero, Miele and more.

2. B. Witching Bath Co. (11 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, NJ)

A fine escape from the big business bath companies, B. Witching Bath Co. is a great find in the heart of downtown Ridgewood. From soaps to lotions, oils to soaks, the product assortment at B. Witching is alluring and high-quality.

Stemming from a 40-year family tradition of fine handmade bath products, B. Witching Bath Co.’s products “are uniquely formulated with the finest therapeutic botanicals, wholesome ingredients, essential oils and minimal preservatives”. Each batch of their products are crafted to high standards on an individual basis.

For the guys out there who often find themselves at a loss in big bath care stores, fear not! We love B. Witching’s efforts to invite men into their store with fine products designed “for him” as well.

3. Serene Spa & Boutique (288 Center Ave., Westwood, NJ)

A walk through the charming downtown center of Westwood brings you to Serene, a quaint spa and boutique with a natural vibe. The name “Serene” is indicative of the feeling you get upon entering the storefront, as customers find its atmosphere relaxing and peaceful.

Serene Spa and Boutique, Westwood, NJ.
Serene Spa and Boutique, Westwood, NJ.

Serene offers a wide array of products, from clothing to skin care. Need a break from the stressful rush of holiday shopping? Serene also offers a litany of fairly priced health options – from massage to waxing, Reiki massage to skin care.

The Serene boutique also offers the added bonus of some very unique jewelry options! If you’re a lover of baubles and bangles, bracelets and necklaces, then make sure you stop by for a fine small business option for your jewelry needs.

4. Caffe Anello and Sogno Coffee (425-429 Broadway, Westwood, NJ)

Of course, all this Small Business Saturday shopping is bound to make you hungry! Our favorite local haunt for a unique bite to eat and a world-class cup of coffee is Sogno Coffee – conveniently, just a short walk away from Serene Spa & Boutique in the heart of Westwood.

You’ll visit Sogno Coffee for its magnificent coffee and beverage selection, including espresso, macchiato, cappuccino and some fantastic hot chocolates. You’ll stay for their assortment of freshly made crepes, available in both Sweet and Savory options. We highly recommend the simple delight of the Fourth Avenue, a handmade crepe made fresh and served with lemon juice, honey, sugar and butter.

If you need a little more nourishment, the double storefront also features Caffe Anello, a tremendous sit-down restaurant you’ll visit over and over again!

Who is “The Face of The Ultimate Kitchen” in 2019? Exclusive Design Article

Peter Salerno Inc.

Who is “The Face of The Ultimate Kitchen” in 2019? Exclusive Design Article

It’s quite the honor to be named “The Face of the Ultimate Kitchen”. Bergen Magazine set out to bestow that honor on one designer in their 2019 Faces of Bergen edition, and we couldn’t be more confident with their selection.

“We’re about working with clients, big or small, classic or modern, creating the rare and distinctive personalized space for any budget,” explains Peter Salerno, the 2019 “Face of the Ultimate Kitchen” in Bergen Magazine.

Peter Salerno is the owner and founder of Peter Salerno Inc., the most award-winning North American custom kitchen and bath design firm of the 21st century. Since 2000, Peter and his design team have won 35 national and international design awards from such prestigious organizations as the NKBA, KBIS, HGTV, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Signature Kitchens & Baths.

Peter Salerno Inc. represents a three generation lineage of passionate, masterful custom designers. Peter Salerno founded his eponymous business in 1997 on the shoulders of his father Rosolino’s work as a master cabinetmaker in Sicily. Alongside his wife, Tracy, and his children, Anthony and Gabrielle, Peter has revolutionized the “family business” into a world-class design firm that has installed custom kitchen and bath designs in multiple countries on multiple continents.

Peter Salerno Inc. has expanded to a gorgeous, award-winning showroom on Goffle Road in Wyckoff, New Jersey, and become a cornerstone business in Bergen County’s marketplace. While Peter’s designs have taken him around the world, he still takes great pride and pleasure in being a New Jersey-based kitchen and bath designer, with dozens of award-winning designs in homes spanning New Jersey, New York and the American Northeast.

“With an eye for the unusual, Peter searches the globe for unique materials, reclaimed objects and old timbers from barns and historic buildings,” the article in Bergen Magazine reads. Peter Salerno Inc. has become synonymous with beautiful and eclectic design materials. From reclaimed tin from a Route 66 gas station to old timbers from an historic New York City orphanage, the next great inspiration for an award-winning Peter Salerno Inc. design can truly come from nearly anywhere.

It’s a wonderful honor to be recognized as the “Face of the Ultimate Kitchen” by a forward-thinking publication like Bergen Magazine, and it’s a moniker that Peter Salerno sees as both a great compliment and a great challenge.

Pick up your copy of Bergen Magazine’s “Faces of Bergen 2019” edition!

A Tour of the Veterans Memorial Home in Paramus, NJ

Peter Salerno Inc.

A Tour of the Veterans Memorial Home in Paramus, NJ

Courage is always in style. When Peter Salerno and his daughter Gabrielle had the opportunity to visit the Veterans Memorial Home in Paramus, New Jersey, it was an offer that they couldn’t pass up.

A veteran of the United States Navy, Peter Salerno (owner of Peter Salerno Inc., the most award-winning North American custom kitchen and bath design firm of the 21st century) was humbled and honored to spend time with the residents of the Veterans Memorial Home. Operated by the State of New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home is a living love letter to those who have sacrificed bravely for the United States.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

Peter and Gabrielle experienced an informative, life-changing tour, led expertly by two individuals: Anthony, the Home’s Recreation Director, and Susan, its Volunteer Director.

The mission statement of the Veterans Memorial Homes of New Jersey:

To honor and serve the Military Veteran, their spouses and Gold Star Parents by consistently providing the highest quality of resident directed long term care by maintaining excellence in personal services and treatment through professional collaboration, innovation and dedication; in a setting that promotes dignity and independence…. Our Homes provide a dignified environment to Veterans who have honorably served our country, and are now in need for nursing home services.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

The Veterans Memorial Home is a beautiful facility, but the true beauty of the Home is its residents. The oldest residents are 102 years old and are proud veterans of World War II. Meeting these individuals was a privilege that Peter Salerno states he “will never forget”.

The benefits of the Home extend from veterans to their spouses, as well as to qualifying Gold Star parents of military veterans.

After his tour, Peter Salerno signed up to become a volunteer at the Paramus Veterans Memorial Homes. Peter and his family encourage citizens of New Jersey to explore becoming volunteers at these valuable Homes – volunteer efforts are greatly needed, and any amount of time one can dedicate is of tremendous value.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

It was a day of gratitude for Peter Salerno and Gabrielle Mayer. Thank you to the volunteers who guided this wonderful tour, the NJ Veterans Affairs Department for housing our invaluable veterans and military heroes, and to the veterans of the United States Military for all they have given our country.

For more information about the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home and all the Homes in New Jersey, please visit the official website of NJ Veterans Affairs.

Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.
Peter Salerno visits the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in NJ.

Peter Salerno Inc.’s Holiday 2018-19 Office Hours + Closing Dates

Peter Salerno Inc.

Peter Salerno Inc.’s Holiday 2018-19 Office Hours + Closing Dates

Even the hardest-working team in the kitchen and bath design industry needs a few days off to celebrate the holidays with family! Peter Salerno Inc., the most award-winning North American custom kitchen and bath design firm since 2002, has updated its hours for December 2018 and early January 2019. We wanted to note those changes here, in case you were interested in visiting the award-winning Peter Salerno Inc. showroom and offices in Wyckoff, New Jersey.

(We couldn’t resist throwing in some adorable showroom photos of the “girls” of Peter Salerno Inc. – including Peter and Tracy’s 3 granddaughters, Jesse, Brielle and Aria!)

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Peter Salerno's granddaughters and the 'girls' of Peter Salerno Inc.!
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Peter Salerno’s granddaughters and the ‘girls’ of Peter Salerno Inc.!

Here are the updated Peter Salerno Inc. office and showroom closings for this holiday season.

Peter Salerno Inc. Showroom + Office Closings: Holiday 2018

The award-winning Peter Salerno Inc. showroom and offices in Wyckoff, New Jersey will be CLOSED on the following dates:

  • Saturday, December 22, 2018
  • Sunday, December 23, 2018
  • Monday, December 24, 2018
  • Tuesday, December 25, 2018
  • Saturday, December 29, 2018
  • Sunday, December 30, 2018
  • Monday, December 31, 2018
  • Tuesday, January 1, 2019

For more information and contact details regarding appointments at the Peter Salerno Inc. showroom and offices, please visit the official Peter Salerno Inc. website.

Peter Salerno's granddaughter, Jesse, playing with Elliot the Elf on a Shelf!
Peter Salerno’s granddaughter, Jesse, playing with Elliot the Elf on a Shelf!

From the entire Peter Salerno Inc. staff, Peter and Tracy Salerno, their children, grandchildren and extended ‘design family’, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a very Happy New Year!