For Bathrooms, Black it is
Here’s a way to make a statement: Flush the white and try a black toilet. You won’t be alone, as black is now the third most popular color choice for Kohler customers behind the traditional white and biscuit. Luxe brand Toto has 15 models in black. For a real showstopper, consider the black Kohler Numi (pictured), a high-tech toilet that has a motion sensor for hands-free opening and closing, a heated seat and foot warmer, illuminated panels and built-in speakers that use Bluetooth technology, along with a charcoal filter intake system to deal with odors and a touchscreen remote. Beginning at $7,800.
Where’s the Fire?
The perfect time to up your fireplace game is just as the fall chill sets in. These nearby establishments can give you step-by-step help, whether you’re building a fireplace from scratch or just need an update.
KJB Fireplaces, Ramsey
This family-owned business offers gas, wood-burning and electrical fireplace options—not to mention FREE estimates—and handles everything in-house, from design to installation.
- 875 Rte. 17 South, Ramsey; 201.760.9585; kjbfireplaces.com.
The Fireplace, Fairfield
This 35-year-old business boasts one of the biggest fireplace and mantel displays in the Tri-state area. It also sells accessories such as hearths, glass doors and inserts.
- 264 Rte. 46, Fairfield; 973.227.8540; thefireplaceplace.com.
Ember Fireplaces, Edison
Besides the traditional gas and electrical options, this luxury one-stop shop also sells outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, because is it really ever too early to plan for summer?
- 197 Vineyard Rd., Edison; 848.467.4360; emberfireplaces.com.
Lotsa Lights
No need to fall into the tourist trap and visit Rockefeller Plaza this holiday season—one Jersey residence’s annual Christmas display has more lights than the 30 Rock tree. Startig in November, the Shaw family of Cranbury will reopen their yard, where guests can watch an hour-long show featuring 120,000 lights synchronized to 18 Christmas songs. Tickets are FREE, but donations for charity are encouraged
- 28 North Main St., Cranbury; Go to cranburychristmaslights.com forthe full schedule and details on parking
Cape May becomes a wonderland every Saturday in December for its Christmas Candlelight House Tours. Visitors take self-guided walking tours of Victorian homes, inns, churches and museums decked out for the holidays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Christmas carolers and festive activities make this event a jolly good time, and beverages and baked goods are on hand to warm folks up. Admission is $35 for adults and $20 for kids.
- 609.884.5404; capemaymac.org.