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Defined By Good Design
03/14/2008 - By Michael Berman
Maureen and Mark Criscitello have come home to Colts Neck. Their journey in Monmouth County first led them to a townhouse in Marlboro in 1985 and then to a home in Freehold, but Maureen recalls that “she always loved Colts Neck.”
Maureen and Mark Criscitello have come home to Colts Neck. Their journey in Monmouth County first led them to a townhouse in Marlboro in 1985 and then to a home in Freehold, but Maureen recalls that “she always loved Colts Neck.” Their 6,800-square-foot dream home, set on 4 1/2 acres, was only 2 years old when they moved in during the summer of 2001. They considered this home a blank slate onto which they could sketch their version of Shangri-La. The project has been a joy for Maureen and Mark as they continue to refine and define their home, both inside and out.
Maureen had a goal to create a home in which their family could find comfort and that their children, Alexandra and Gregory, would enjoy sharing with their friends. Maureen is a self-described homebody, but enjoys family trips to different parts of the country and vacationing in the Islands when time allows. She also recently took dance classes, something that she always wanted to do. “It’s never too late,” she says.
Maureen and Mark have found Colts Neck to be a haven from some of the more built-up towns in the surrounding area, but they still like to dine out at Buona Sera in Red Bank and the Salt Creek Grille in Rumson. They also shop locally for home decor; the small-town feel found in Monmouth County appeals to Maureen, who proudly supports the local merchants when looking for that special something for her family’s home.
Maureen continues to refine her vision for the house. Her most recent challenge has been the finished basement, which includes a fully equipped workout space, a bar, and a snuggle-up and kick-back-and-relax home theater enjoyed by the entire family. The Criscitello home makes being a homebody nothing short of a pleasure.
Arches and columns lead to a magnificent family room. The view from above accents the overall grand design and the scope of Maureen’s vision. Maureen worked closely with John Landron of Primas Home in Red Bank to make that vision a reality. The Tuscan-inspired design concept is complemented by a neutral color palette, lush fabrics, parachute-inspired silk drapes, and a selection of stylish and comfortable upholstered furniture.
The custom entertainment unit features a hideaway automatic flat-screen monitor mechanism that, with the touch of a button, lowers the flat screen into the walnut burl cabinetry when the screen is not in use.
The kitchen design is classic. White cabinetry creates an effective counterpoint to the speckled granite counters and backsplash treatment. New Viking appliances and black iron lighting pendants with hanging crystals become architectural elements that effectively break up the white, raised-panel cabinetry.
Mark’s collection of unusual sports memorabilia has been displayed prominently. Points of interest include autographed uniforms, helmets, photographs, and various other mementos.
The basement of the Criscitello home exudes comfort and relaxation. The custom bar features a flat-screen monitor and granite bar top, along with leather-covered stools for
cozying up to a cold one.
The large sectional seating area frames a most inviting entertainment center. The flat-screen TV is mounted directly onto the fieldstone, above the fireplace, and is flanked by built-in shelves and cabinetry. The tray ceiling with up lighting adds a nice touch to this custom home theater space. Mark stays fit using his state-of-the-art home gym, located near the bar and home theater. This well-planned finished basement almost makes going upstairs unnecessary; it has become a welcome destination for entertaining, working out, or just relaxing after a long, busy day.
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