CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens) JULY/AUGUST 2023

46

Love At First Shimmer

A couple bought their Westport house sight unseen— the in-real-life experience confirmed it a win

by David Masello

photographs by Jane Beiles

FEATURES

54

Wrapped in Nature

A Litchfield County remodel seamlessly blends with its rustic surroundings by Catriona Branca photographs by Morten Smidt

62

Family Time

When Emily Del Bello and her family relocated to Darien from NYC, it was time to make designing their own home a priority

by Ann Loynd Burton photographs by Kirsten Francis

70

Rose Cottage

Joyful color abounds in a Darien home with a Nantucket vibe by Jamie Marshall photographs by Paul Johnson

From “Rose Cottage,” page 70

Photograph by Paul Johnson

Summer Soirees

Here in high summer, we savor the longer days and being outdoors as much as possible, knowing they are fleeting. A relaxed mood is all around us. Even entertaining is easier and more fun. ■ Everyone knows I love showcasing a great-looking table for my get-togethers. It is satisfying to design and is a welcoming gift for our guests. Perhaps it was my few years at Bride’s magazine that ignited my passion for creating interesting tables. There are countless ways of adding interest to any table, and you do not need to be a pro. Adopt a playful mood and try to break away from your triedand-true style. Entertaining outdoors kicks my tabletop design into high gear. I think about where to place the table, generally ditch the so-called “good china” and opt for layering colors and textures of the plates and textiles. Finish it off with soft lighting and lots of candles. ■ After a few early-summer dinner parties, I was in the market for another tablecloth to avoid a tabletop slump. I went to my local haunts, and the shops were full of great items. I walked away with lots of options and great inspiration, but no tablecloth. In the meantime, I got an email from a former editor and now contributor to CTC&G, Alexa Stevenson. This talented interior designer started a textile company, Lex & King, that offers linens that are classic with a twist. I had a laugh when I remembered asking Alexa to create a tabletop feature for the magazine. While she was a little nervous, I knew she would do a great job. She admitted to liking the process so much that she proposed creating a monthly inspirational table setting for the magazine. Well, as you might have guessed, I headed immediately to the website (lexandking.com) and found a perfect handblocked floral pattern with a beautiful edge detail in green and white. I now have a new inspiration and immediately started thinking of additional colors to add and what type of flowers or plants would work as a centerpiece. I went down that design rabbit hole immediately and enjoyed every minute of it.

DJ Carey Editorial Director djcarey@candg.com

Available through Lex & King (lexandking.com), the Citrus Garden tablecloth is based on a pattern that the iconic Joseph Frank created for Schumacher in 1947.

Back To Nature

Ihave lived in this house for 15 years. It’s a special house as it hangs high over the Silvermine River, where mountain laurel clings to the hillside and giant hydrangeas explode from below its double decks. ■ This level of detail would not have come so readily to mind before Covid, when I ran in and out to work oblivious of my surroundings. We all felt the same; what else was there to look at? The love affair with my garden grows every day, and it leaves me in awe of the work of the landscape architects and designers around us ■ None more so than James Doyle of James Doyle Design Associates (JDDA), whose projects have so frequently graced the pages of our magazines, and who has been chosen to receive the 2023 Innovator Award at the Connecticut Innovation in Design Awards (IDAs) in Greenwich on October 24. The greatest in the architecture and design world have received this award, and this is the first time it has been awarded to a landscape designer. Perhaps he will bring copies of the Intersection of Nature and Art —a beautifully illustrated book, published last year, showing the evolution of his design. For tickets and to see the list of finalists go to cgidas.com. I hope to see you there.

Marianne Howatson CEO/Publication Director

This project (above) by James Doyle Design Associates was featured in the May 2023 issue of CTC&G Doyle’s latest book (right) showcases his designs.

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DON’T MAKE LUNCH. MAKE THUNDER.

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DESIGN STOPS

MUST-HAVES FOR THE DESIGN-OBSESSED SHOPPER

In This Issue

HOW IS DESIGNING YOUR OWN HOME DIFFERENT WHEN YOU ARE THE CLIENT?

JANE BEILES

“As a photographer, I tend to translate every space I see, including my own home, into a two-dimensional frame to analyze the elements that highlight the singularity of a home. We just moved to a historically significant saltbox in Fairfield after a decade in a fanciful 1916 storybook cottage in New Canaan. I plan to be very authentic in my decorating—layering decades of collected art with favorite books and photos—to be true to who we are as a family.” Photographer, “Love at First Shimmer,” page 46, janebeiles.com.

CAREY KARLAN

“I’m not the kind of designer that succeeds in imprinting my personal style on client projects. I see it as my job to give them the best version of what they want. My personal taste is sometimes out of step with the latest trends, since I love pattern, color, eclectic collections, antiques and some would say—clutter! So, it is a special treat to try anything I want in my own home, in rooms that need never be declared ‘finished.’ I find myself a very agreeable client!”

Interior designer, “Rose Cottage,” page 70, careykarlan.com.

EMILY DEL BELLO

THE POST

Introducing enewton bracelets! Now available at The Post. Swim, sweat, & sleep in this stackable collection. Perfect for you or as a gift for any occasion!

203.292.5700 / thepostct.com

@thepostct

“Since I work in design all day, I found it hard to prioritize my personal project, which made the overall process much longer. But the added time and patience paid off in the end, as I was able to find some amazing pieces along the way. Designing my own home and seeing my family live and grow in a passion project of mine is such a unique experience. I get to see my designs in use and people enjoying them—something I don’t always get to see with clients!”

Interior designer, “Family Time,” page 62, emilydbinteriors.com.

—Mary Fitzgerald

COLOR & INTERIORS

A revitalized historic space in Back Bay, Boston

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Coming soon: A full-service design showroom with premium window treatments, and designer fabrics and wallcoverings. 11 LOCATIONS IN MASSACHUSETTS, NEW HAMPSHIRE, AND MAINE

#JulieKnows

Greenwich, Connecticut

Welcome to #JulieKnows, a monthly column on all things real estate and home.

I’m Julie Grace Burke, a Greenwich resident and real estate broker who has been deeply involved in the culture and ever evolving real estate landscape of this historic town for the last 25 years.

From its early roots as a farming and trading hub in the 17th century, Greenwich has transformed into a sought-after oasis known for its cosmopolitan sophistication, beautiful estates, and exceptional quality of life for all ages.

For a taste of Greenwich, take a look at 751 North Street. This stately brick Georgian with soaring ceilings is a summer entertaining idyll, boasting expansive terraces and heated pool.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next home improvement project, seeking advice on buying or selling real estate, or just curious about the fascinating stories that shape our neighborhoods, this column is here to assist and inform.

Join me as we delve into the questions and concerns that matter most to you. Best, JGB

MUSIC ON THE GREAT LAWN

Greenwich Historical Society’s great lawn will come alive with the sounds of music all summer long for its fourth season of Music on the Great Lawn series. The historic gardens are an ideal backdrop for enjoying a wide range of musical styles designed to appeal to all age groups, where friends and family can enjoy picnicking and building stronger community connections. Popular area bands performing include Suburban Chaos (July 20), Margi & the Dapper Dots (August 3), Gunsmoke (August 17) and The Sun Kings, A Beatles Tribute (August 31). The Greenwich Historical Society, 47 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit greenwichhistory. org/music-on-the-great-lawn.

JULY 20,

3, 17, 31

NANTUCKET BY DESIGN

CTC&G is the proud media sponsor of the Nantucket Historical Association’s Nantucket by Design. This premier summer fundraiser celebrates the island’s unique influence on design.

Featuring an award-winning line-up, including the dynamic duo of Ashley Hicks and Martina Mondadori as keynote speakers for the Design Luncheon, as well as India Hicks, Wambui Ippolito, Thomas Jayne and Nicholas Varney as panelists for the Design Panel, moderated by Steele Marcoux. August 2–5. Nantucket Historical Association, 15 Broad St., Nantucket, MA.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nha. org/join-give/benefit-events/ nantucket-by-design.

FROM COS COB TO NANTUCKET

Bethel | Branford | Darien

Lewisboro | Madison | New Milford

Niantic | Wilton

“Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2023 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.

Out of the Box

NOTHING SAYS SUMMER LIKE RED, WHITE AND BLUE | BY MARY

FITZGERALD

The

Designed by Alessandra Branca, Palampore Petal from Casa Branca is a perfect companion to mid- and largescale patterns. Shown here in Sky and Coral, this 100-percent linen fabric can stand on its own or function as a neutral. Price upon request, casabranca.com.

PETITE PRINT

HAVE A SEAT

For extra seating, the Tantallon floor cushion by Oka hits the mark in a cotton Aztec pattern with intricate hand-embroidered detailing and tassels. $425, Westport, oka.com.

CAMPAIGN TRAIL

Coastal campaign chest from Universal wears a gesso finish that resembles linen in a bold Marina finish, accented with silver-toned campaign hardware. $2,224, available through Safavieh, safavieh.com, universalfurniture.com.

EAST MEETS WEST

Crate & Barrel’s Mai blue floral stoneware bowl is inspired by traditional Japanese designs. $13, crateandbarrrel.com.

SISTERLY LOVE

The large-scale repeat of Sister Parish’s Sintra print in blue and red features an iconic Tree of Life pattern in linen, ideal for furniture, upholstery or curtains. $204 per yard, sisterparishdesign.com.

STRIKE IT RED

Shown here in Scarlet, Pratesi’s Marrakesh bedding is made from Egyptian cotton with a sateenappliqued ogee curve motif and a hand-scalloped edge. Prices range from $750 to $3,495, pratesi.com.

SUMMER DREAMING

Designed by Mark D. Sikes for Anthropologie, this canopy bed is dreamy. Made from poplar, beech and fir wood, the frame is wrapped in a cotton canvas in Sikes’ signature blue and white colors. $2,698, anthropologie.com.

TRIMMED OUT

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the Aspen Collection of trims from Samuel & Sons are made from Perennials acrylic yarns, resistant to UV rays, mildew and stains. Shown here, Aspen bullion fringe in Poppy. Price upon request, D&D, samuelandsons.com.

TABLE DRESSING

In a cotton seersucker, Kim Seybert’s navy stripe napkin is finished with a red crochet border. Wrinkled by design, the look is summer casual. Set of four, $92, available through Hoagland’s, Greenwich, hoaglands.com, kimseybert.com.

ARTISAN SIPS

Blue Tortoise double old-fashioned glasses by Hudson Grace are classically chic for enjoying artisan cocktails. Handcrafted and mouthblown, each glass will vary slightly in texture and shape making them perfectly imperfect. Plus they are dishwasher safe. $18 each, Greenwich, hudsongracesf.com.

The Azul melamine dinner plate from Bespoke Designs is perfect for summer soirees. Shatterproof, BPA free and machine washable, pack up for a picnic or dine on the patio without a worry. $14, Westport, bespokedesigns.com.

STAR POWER

Crafted from handcoiled abaca, designer Mary McDonald’s Compass rug for Patterson Flynn is a modern spin on a classic Napoleonic star pattern. Price upon request, D&D, pattersonflynn.com

DOTS & DASHES

The Helmsman Dot throw from Annie Selke is fashioned from homespun slubby cotton with denim stripes and red sheared French knot embroidery, finished with a hand-braided tassel fringe. $128, annieselke.com.

MADE FOR SHADE

This outdoor market umbrella wears an original Marimekko print, Papajo, designed by Annika Rimala in 1968. Looking youthful and timeless, it provides a bright pop of sunshine in the garden. Shown here in Poppy, the umbrella is also offered in blue. $499, Westport, westelm.com.

LIFE OF THE PARTY

Cailini Coastal is an online source for beachy home décor, located right here in Connecticut. To outfit your next outdoor party, consider the Sandbar Party Bucket made of rattan and teak with a removable galvanized steel bucket for cold drinks. $898, cailinicoastal. com.

AMERICANA CLASSICS

Max Humphrey partnered with Sunbrella to create a performance fabric collection infused with classic Americana motifs. The designer lends his fresh perspective to vintage-inspired quilt, gingham, floral and bandana fabrics that are versatile and functional. $186–$230 per yard, available exclusively through Pindler, NYDC, pindler.com.

DINING AL FRESCO

Buzzworthy

JUST LAUNCHED

Wildwood launched a new line of furniture, lighting and home décor with Denise McGaha at High Point’s spring market. The Dallas-based designer shares Wildwood’s appreciation for heritage craftsmanship. When creating this series, she was deeply influenced by time spent at her ranch and her love of the outdoors. “My family’s Texas ranch has served as the greatest inspiration for my designs,” says McGaha. “From wood and stone to sky to earth, I was consistently drawn to the strength and beauty of nature’s elements to design a collection that endures the test of time in both style and function.” The collection achieves a balance between contemporary living and traditional style, leaning into organic materials and texture in a natural palette. Available through The Collective, Stamford, thecollectivect.com, wildwoodhome.com.

REPEAT PERFORMANCE

Arteriors welcomes back Barry Dixon. This is the designer’s sixth collection with the brand. The 19-piece assemblage includes furniture, lighting and accessories that draw inspiration from history and the natural world. Dixon took the unconventional approach of “looking backward to think forward,” creating a layered series that feels both modern and timeless. A range of materials—metals, vellum, marble and glass—are interpreted in simplistic silhouettes. “There’s great value in this collection as future heirlooms, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the pieces are able to travel throughout any aesthetic continuum,” says Dixon. NYDC, arteriorshome.com.

Pattern Passion

Madcap Cottage and Country Floors unveiled an exclusive series of 6-by6-inch glazed terra cotta tiles. True to the designers' style, the patterns are playful and colorful. “We wanted to create a tile collection that was inspired by our far-flung adventures and that also captures—and brings to life—the Madcap Cottage passion for prints and patterns that are fun, fresh, and timeless,” note Madcap Cottage co-founders John Loecke and Jason Oliver Nixon. “You will find influences culled from jaunts to England, India and Morocco paired with inviting, never-beige colors.”

Available through Country Floors, 15 E. 16th St., NYC, countryfloors.com

FASHION MASH-UP

Sharing a love of pattern, prints and embroidery, home brand Annie Selke and fashion house Frances Valentine have combined talents on a colorful new collection. “It’s our first crossover into the wonderful world of women’s apparel,” says Selke. Encompassing 28 pieces in florals, stripes and geometrics with an emphasis on color, craft and detail, the Annie Selke x Frances Valentine bedding, pillows and throws are designed to spark joy. Frances Valentine was founded by college friends Elyce Arons and Kate Spade in 2016 to celebrate the power of personal style through mood-boosting and confidence-building fashion.

“We're celebrating the anticipation of summer, the buzzy energy this change of season brings, and the opportunity to change your décor and freshen things up,” says Arons. annieselke.com. —Mary Fitzgerald

Offshore Adventures

Get out on the water! No matter your age, summer means water and that feeling that only cool water under a summer sun can bring. Connecticut boasts more than 300 miles of coastline waiting to be explored. A day on Long Island Sound or on one of our many rivers can give you a different perspective of our state. With a vast array of boating options—including private yacht rentals, river cruises and sailboats—residents and visitors to Connecticut have multiple options to choose from when exploring the coast.

RIVER CRUISES & BOAT RENTALS

Argia Mystic Cruises

This mahogany and white oak framed boat takes guests on a relaxing two-hour trip exploring Mystic waterways. Guests can appreciate the view and see the islands and lighthouses during the ride. There are multiple sail times throughout the day to fit any traveler’s itinerary. Available for private charter, too. argiamystic.com.

Connecticut River Cruise & Charter

The Connecticut River Cruise offers a variety of tours with destinations to all five of the Connecticut River islands. Additional services include dining at fine riverside restaurants in Middletown, Haddam and Essex. ctrivercruise.com.

Historic Mystic Harbor Tours

On the Mystic Harbor Tours, guests can take a 40-minute scenic, narrated tour through the calmest part of the Mystic River. The route

ARGIA MYSTIC CRUISES

atthew R . D ougherty architect, llc

M

passes the homes on “Captain’s Row,” the Mystic Bascule Bridge and the tall ships of Mystic, ultimately leading to the Mystic Seaport Museum. Entry to the museum is also included within the experience. mysticharbortours.com.

Norwalk Seaport Association

The Seaport’s popular Sunset Cruise slowly cruises through outer Norwalk Harbor as the captain’s mate tells stories of merchants and sailors that have used this waterway for centuries. Learn how Native Americans and English settlers enjoyed the bounty of Long Island Sound and how captains of industry used this area to develop trade routes that went as far as the West Indies. The narrative gives a new understanding of Norwalk historically and also reflects the importance of this scenic harbor today. Other tours include a threehour round trip with a one-hour stop at Sheffield Island to hunt for shells or picnic and observe wildlife in their natural habitat in the McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. seaport.org.

Pedal Cruise Sip, cheer and chill on the water on Stamford’s only pedalpowered party boat operated on Stamford Harbor and out into Long Island Sound for groups of up to 26 people. This relaxing 90-minute excursion on a custom-crafted boat fits 26 guests at 12 pedaling stations and benches, a bar table, coolers, Bluetooth stereo and it even has a bathroom. Tours also operate from Milford. pedalcruise.com/stamford-ct/.

RiverQuest Cruises

The 64-foot eco-tour boat takes guests through Connecticut River’s ecology, history and wildlife. Departing from the Connecticut

River Museum in Essex, guests will enjoy what the Nature Conservancy labels as “One of the Last Great Places in the Northern Hemisphere.” ctriverquest.com.

SAILING Joyride Charters

This women-owned and -operated charter offers sailing on Long Island Sound leaving from Westbrook. Afternoon and sunset sails are approximately 2.5 hours. The

boat, Pure Joy, has a galley for meal preparation. Sailing lessons are available during the charter. joyridecharters.com.

Marine Pro Sailing

Join Stu Reininger as he takes guests on his 35-foot ocean cruising cutter called Tall Tales. The motto is “if it ain’t fun, don’t do it,” which is why they offer flexibility in the number of people, foods, beverages and pets allowed on board. marinepro.net.

Poet’s Lounge Sailing Charters

The Poet’s Lounge offers two charters. Whether it is on the Ericson 39-foot, which sails through Mystic River or the Jeanneau 47-foot that departs out of New London, guests can enjoy breathtaking views and rich history or a moonlight cruise along the Mystic coastline. sailpoetslounge.com.

—DJ Carey

HISTORIC MYSTIC HARBOR TOURS

JOYRIDE CHARTERS

BY DARREN HENAULT

DEEDS DON’TS

Something Special

While visiting five of the summer’s top listings, we’ll avoid the word “unique”—so overused that it has lost its meaning—and instead rely on “one-of-a-kind” to describe the awesome amenities on offer. The tour takes us from a 30-car garage to an in-town modern—after which we’ll take a break from house-hunting and see you in September!

DECKS, DOCKS & MORE

A waterfront Greenwich estate has all the “something specials” you’d expect from a property selling for just under $15 million. Sited on nearly one-acre grounds within the Indian Harbor Association, the stone manse impresses immediately with its paved front courtyard and marble

Drivers Wanted This waterfront Greenwich estate, which comes with a 30-car garage, is offered for $14,995,000 by Kelly Feda of Coldwell Banker Realty in Greenwich. 203-536-0361.

ELEVATE YOUR EXTERIOR MORANO GROUP

Morano Group Landscapes + Hardscapes is a family owned and operated premier, full service exterior company based in Mamaroneck, NY. We offer superior products and services such as design, development, maintenance, masonry, interior plantscapes, organic tree and shrub care, mature tree installation, holiday decor, pot and container plantings, poolside landscapes and more for commercial and residential properties. For any inquiries call our office at 914.698.4065.

entry hall featuring a dramatic, curving staircase. But the home’s most distinctive offering is the 30-car, ground-level garage that comes complete with mechanic’s quarters with a full bath. Additional stand-out features include a wine cellar and wood-paneled library that doubles as an office. And if you favor fashion over fast cars, you’ll love the massive double dressing rooms with extensive shelves and closets, part of the dreamy primary suite with an equally expansive private balcony. It lists for $14,995,00 with Kelly Feda of Coldwell Banker Realty.

While cruising Long Island Sound’s shoreline, we’ll stop by a renovated Darien property with a—yes—unique collection of outdoor amenities.

The fun begins at the private deep-water dock with a pretty stone terrace at its starting point for lounging around the firepit at sunset. Closer to the house, the pool terrace is enclosed by low glass walls for unbroken views over Noroton Harbor and, in the distance, the Manhattan skyline. That terrace also offers a dining space, a counter with bar stools, a kitchen and easy access to the glass-walled, open-plan rooms. The 8,200-square-foot interiors also boast a home office with a floor-to-ceiling hearth, a yoga room and gym, and a cool wine storage system. It lists for $15,950,000 with Molly O’Brien Watkins and Christine Straden of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.

WANTED: MORE HOUSES

After several volatile seasons, a few of the anomalies rocking the real estate market have stabilized. Mortgage rates are slightly lower than they were last fall, with an average of around 6.7 percent, and urban dwellers have stopped fleeing cities in droves. Still, housing inventory remains stubbornly low. Compared to 2019, there are fewer than half the number of for-sale homes on the national market—and that’s especially the case in Ridgefield, a lovely town that manages to be both bucolic and commutable. Some good news: At press time, a beautifully renovated Colonial popped onto the market, and it is the perfect family home. The owner, who is an avid gardener, put in the pool, specimen trees, outdoor fireplace, bonsai court and even a lacrosse field. The four-bedroom house was also expanded over the years, now measuring 3,450 square feet and including a large home office with a private balcony. The property lists for $1.3 million with Karla Murtaugh, founding agent with Compass in Ridgefield. 203-856-5534.

Seaworthy This Darien waterfront home, with a deep-water dock, is listed for $15,950,000 with Molly O’Brien Watkins and Christine Straden of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty in Darien. 203-5363889 and 917-680-4585.

COMPOUND INTEREST

In Southport, a brand-new listing offers a rare 15 acres of waterfront property, priced at $44.5 million. Sasco Point, as it’s called, features a circa-1923 Elizabethan Renaissance manse, along with a matching boathouse with a crenellated turret. Designed by Henry C. Pelton, best known as the architect of the Riverside Church and The Cloisters in New York City, the imposing, red-brick main house measures 18,000 square feet and has 30 rooms. Its grand interiors have retained the hallmarks of the era—ornate woodworking, fancy fireplaces and a “snuggery” on the third floor. But there are modern amenities, too, including a gym with a mirrored ballet barre, a media room and a primary suite with a fireplace and terrace. And throughout, there are wide-open views of Southport Harbor, the Country Club of Fairfield golf course and Sasco Beach. It lists with Andrew S. Whiteley of Team AFA at William Raveis.

MODERN MASTERPIECE

What’s unique about a for-sale modern in New Canaan, is, well, everything. It was designed by renowned architect Joeb Moore—winner of the 2022 CTC&G Innovator Award—and built by Prutting + Co. On a small, in-town lot (.2 acres), the rooftop is the place to start the tour,

for its chic terrace equipped with a fireplace, outdoor kitchen and sweeping views of downtown New Canaan. The L.E.E.D.-certified, three-story structure has glass walls to let in light and soaring ceilings to make every space feel large and lofty. The primary suite, one of four bedrooms, is especially lovely with its steam shower, wood-paneled sauna and huge walk-in closet. It lists for $3,250,000 with Chau Ngo of Douglas Elliman. —Diane di Costanzo

Land’s End On 15 waterfront acres, this Sound-side estate is listed for $44.5 million with Andrew S. Whiteley of Team AFA at William Raveis in Southport. 203-258-1595.

Top Of The World A chic rooftop terrace is just one of this modern home’s amenities. New to the New Canaan market, it lists for $3,250,000 with Chau Ngo of Douglas Elliman in Greenwich. 917-848-0341.

BROKERS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Connecticut has seen an influx of new homeowners who enjoy the best in architecture and design as well as the latest scoop on Real Estate news in CTC&G. While Real Estate sales have slowed, C&G’s Readership Survey shows that 44% of respondents said they are in the market to buy a house in the next two years. Homeowners will need an agent or broker to help them buy or sell their home. In this section we present some of the brokers you should know when you are ready to move or purchase a vacation home or investment property.

JOSEPH BARBIERI

SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

An éminence grise of luxury real estate, Joseph Barbieri has been in business for more than 30 years, serving high profile and ultra-high net worth clients. His warmth and geniality are matched only by an encyclopedic knowledge of the Greenwich market and his deal-making proficiency.

203.940.2025

JOSEPHBARBIERI.COM

@JOSEPH_BARBIERI_GREENWICH

52 DAWN HARBOR LN. RIVERSIDE, CT

Enchanting 1926 fieldstone manor with deeded water access deftly transformed by the current owners to encompass 8,903 sq ft with seven bedrooms and seven baths. Approached by a gated stone courtyard flanked by flowering trees, the handsome interiors exude Old World charm. A formal living room adjoins a paneled billiards room with fireplace. The bay-windowed sunroom with fireplace takes in Long Island Sound water views, as does the luxurious owner’s suite. The fenced backyard with outdoor fireplace and dining areas overlooks a pool and pool house with a stone fireplace, wet bar and full bath.

Exclusive Offering - $10,995,000

KAREN SCOTT

KMS TEAM AT COMPASS

As a powerhouse real estate agent in Westport, CT, Karen Scott is an invaluable asset to buyers and sellers. With the support of the KMS Team at Compass, Karen combines honesty, integrity, and proven business savvy. Her compassionate listening and insightful advice have earned her the respect of clients and peers. Diligent, approachable, and wonderfully creative, Karen tirelessly works to achieve her clients’ goals.

203.613.9200

KMSCOMPASS.COM

@GREATSCOTT04

WESTPORT, CT

Situated on a captivating 1.4-acre property, this remarkable residence embodies the essence of luxury living in Westport. Meticulously crafted with attention to detail, this custom-built home showcases elegant features throughout. The main level boasts impressive 10’ ceilings adorned with crown moldings and hardwood floors. The inviting living room with a cozy fireplace and built-in bookcases welcomes guests, while the sun room and magnificent great room with a stunning stone fireplace and mahogany vaulted ceiling offer tranquility. French doors lead to serene outdoor spaces. The kitchen, complete with a grand central island, is a chef’s dream, complemented by a breakfast nook and a formal dining room. Additional highlights include a private library/ office, a gym, sauna, and ample spaces for recreation and entertainment. The exceptional outdoor living area features a saltwater pool, spa, stone patio with a fireplace, and a covered dining veranda with a built-in kitchen, all set amidst the beauty of everblooming gardens and a lush lawn.

Sale Price - $5,000,000

KARLA MURTAUGH COMPASS

Karla is well respected and consistently recognized as a top-producing Fairfield County Realtor and has repeatedly been named as one of WSJ Real Trends “America’s Best” Realtors. Her talented team represents properties ranging from condominiums to exceptional estate properties. Karla is the founding agent of Compass Ridgefield.

203.856.5534

KARLA.MURTAUGH@COMPASS.COM

@KARLAMURTAUGHHOMES

23 HIGH RIDGE AVENUE RIDGEFIELD, CT

One of Ridgefield’s most admired properties, 23 High Ridge Avenue, is the epitome of extraordinary architecture set against a most spectacular setting on one of Fairfield County’s most exceptional avenues. This circa 1940 classic Georgian Colonial showcases impeccable craftsmanship and luxurious features throughout. High level renovations/ expansions allow for a sophisticated yet casual lifestyle. Highlights include an impressive front-to back foyer, impressive high-end kitchen, his/her baths, beautifully appointed rooms with easy access to the oversized patio, outdoor kitchen, and covered veranda. Outdoor amenities include a heated saltwater pool & spa, renovated cabana, and beautiful landscaped grounds. Approximately 1 hour to NYC.

Exclusive Offering - $4,700,000

One of the area’s most Iconic properties. Walk to Connecticut’s #1 Cultural District, with easy access to top rated museums, restaurants, art galleries and world class theaters. 6 bedrooms, 6/2 baths, 8,266 sq. ft., and 2.24 acres.

RICK DISTEL COMPASS

Rick Distel brings an unmatched passion and expertise for marketing homes to his bi-coastal and international clientele. Rick’s guiding principle is that luxury is not a price point, rather a level of service. By treating his clients’ equity as his own, he provides guidance and service at the highest level.

646.417.2720

COMPASS.COM/AGENTS/RICK-DISTEL-CT @SELLINGBOTHCOASTS

191 ROXBURY ROAD WASHINGTON, CT

Hedgelawn Farm is a remarkable country compound situated on 28 acres, offering breathtaking views of Steep Rock Land Trust. Comprising three distinct residences, this unique property showcases luxury and serenity. The barn house, a 4,500SF penthouse, boasts panoramic vistas and opulent features, while the 2,800SF guest house combines modern elegance with historical charm. The cottage, a 1BR studio, serves as an ideal space for an au pair or artist. With recent renovations and top-quality construction, including new kitchens, baths, wiring, and plumbing, this estate offers unparalleled value.

Additional amenities include ponds, pastures, a 5-vehicle barn, and more. Ready for its new owner.

Exclusive Offering - $9,500,000

Hedgelawn Farm - Incomparable country compound on 28 acres overlooking hundreds of acres of Steep Rock Land Trust.

ROBIN KENCEL

ROBIN KENCEL TEAM AT COMPASS

Robin Kencel nurtures lasting relationships with clients from the worlds of finance, entertainment, professional sports, and business. While Robin primarily concentrates on the Greenwich and lower Fairfield County markets, the Robin Kencel Team at Compass also represents specialty properties in other luxury markets. As a boutique real estate advisor, Robin showcases extraordinary properties with a high-touch approach, ensuring personalized service at every step. Robin specializes in curating a portfolio of exquisite homes that embody luxury and elegance and her unparalleled expertise seamlessly guides clients through the world of luxury real estate, offering bespoke solutions tailored to unique preferences.

203.249.2943

ROBINKENCELTEAM.COM

@ROBINKENCEL

GREENWICH, CT

This 2020 built home defines the art of contemporary living. It embraces a relaxed lifestyle equipped with ultra-luxury amenities and design elements suggestive of NYC loft living. Carefully designed using sustainable materials, the home features Brazilian Garapa wood siding, Belgian black granite, a zinc roof, and reclaimed French oak floors. (above) Sale Price - $10,750,000

WESTON, CT

This country retreat is where architecture, art, and nature come together as one. The property borders a nature reserve and privacy is paramount. Leroy Street Studio in Manhattan conceptualized this masterpiece where individual cubes appear to fold into each other. The glass great room was inspired by the Louvre Museum Pyramid in Paris. An indoor/outdoor koi sanctuary can be viewed through glass waterways under your feet in the home’s main hall. (left) Sale Price - $6,500,000

JULY/AUGUST

COTTAGES & GARDENS

LOVE AT FIRST SHIMMER

BY DAVID MASELLO | PHOTOGRAPHS BY JANE BEILES

A couple bought their Westport house sight unseen— the in-real-life experience confirmed it a win

Falling in love with a house is much akin to falling in love with a person. You remember the smallest details, the briefest moments that led to such feelings. Prior to officially owning this Westport house—having bid on it sight unseen during the pandemic—the homeowner recalls going inside with her husband. “We walked into the living room, and when I looked up to the ceiling and saw the eggshell of the paint and the wooden beams, the water from the pool outside was reflecting onto the surfaces—it was all shimmering. From that moment, I loved the house.”

While the homeowner well understood her feelings for the house that she would share with her husband and two young children, she knew also that she would need an interior designer to “push me into using more color and a more dynamic design that I might

otherwise not go for.” She commissioned Denise Davies of D2 Interieurs to help make the rooms of the five-bedroom home into spaces infused with color, texture and personality. “Denise’s pushing and my pulling back worked,” she admits. “Denise introduced me to elements I wouldn’t have immediately known were attractive and unique.”

Davies is well known in the industry not only for her designs, but also for the manner in which she gets to know her clients. A questionnaire that Davies hands out to prospective clients seeks answers that are instructive and personal. “From the questionnaire, I learned that the client wanted a very subtle palette,” says Davies, “very beige and gray. But as time went on, I opened her up to new possibilities. How do I say this without sounding conceited, but I think I have a way, a

Easy Mornings

In the breakfast area, a Muuto pendant hovers over a Robert James table and CB2 Lisette dining chairs. See Resources.

Making Statements

(clockwise across spread from opposite page) The girls’ bedroom lounge area features a Rove Concepts sectional complemented by a circular ottoman upholstered in Knoll fabric; the wall art is by Hayley Sheldon. Interior designer Denise Davies on site. An Emma Hayes wallpaper wraps the office walls in a soft cloud pattern in mauve. Allied Maker sconces frame the living room fireplace, while custom sofas designed by Davies flank a coffee table from Arteriors. See Resources.

gift for getting into people’s heads and knowing what they want, more so than what they think they want.”

What Davies and the homeowner both wanted was a cohesiveness among the interior spaces. Every room that Davies designs, on any project, feels finished, with rooms relating seamlessly to one another. While the client needed a home that would be both durable and aesthetically pleasing, she also wanted harmony. “The rooms flow well because of Denise, and you know that just one person put them together.” Adds Davies, “As with every project, I try to make every room usable, even the formal living room, which not so many people use any more.” Indeed, in this house, during the design process, the homeowner began to refer to her living room as the “book club room,” referencing its potential as a place to host her spirited gatherings of like-minded readers.

Adhering to the client’s penchant for subtlety and a visual quiet, Davies stuck to softer shades of color, while using mottled metallic wallcovering designs in the girls’ bedroom, the dining room and the primary suite. Another key design element that was extant and ever-growing was the homeowner’s collection of contemporary art. She had already been working

Signature Pieces

(clockwise across spread from opposite page) Gabriel Scott pendants hang over the kitchen island, which accommodates bar stools from Rove Concepts. A living room seating area is set with custom D2 chairs that use a Mokum fabric, while Made Goods’ Cracked Gold side table is both sculptural and practical. Apparatus’s Cloud chandelier illuminates the dining room, with custom chairs upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric. See Resources.

with Andrea Suarez-Barlow, an art consultant and cofounder of Eunoia Modern, purchasing works by a variety of artists, including Jenna Krypell, Hayley Sheldon and Jeremy Holmes. Because the homeowner already owned many works, it was relatively easy to choose ones whose hues subtly reflect Davies’s design elements—a fabric work by Krypell whose lavender hues echo the living room furnishings, a woven ash wood wall sculpture by Holmes in the family room that references similarly hued accessories.

And yet, both the client and Davies are in agreement that the art in a home takes precedence over its ability to complement. “Art is personal,” insists Davies, “and people should use what they really love and not try to match anything to the room.” The client adds, “I love art and I know that art relates to, and completes, a home.”

Davies and her team of five—who she insists “really make it all happen every time”—toil so diligently on every project that giving it up at the end can be difficult. “You forget that while designing a home, it’s not yours,” notes Davies. “You have the key to go in and out as you wish, but when it’s done and the client moves in, it’s time to realize it’s not your house. But what a good feeling replaces that one when your clients settle in and love what you did.” ✹

Home Retreats (clockwise across spread from top) In the family room, Jeremy Holmes' artwork—composed of painted white ash—hangs behind a custom sectional and a multitiered coffee table. Pink prevails in a girl’s bedroom, accented with a chandelier from the Light Factory; the custom bed is adorned with a Designers Guild throw; and the artwork by CLoD is through Appleton Art Design. In the primary bedroom, Phillip Jeffries’ Bermuda Hemp wallcovering sets the tone for the room, which features a custom bed dressed with Holly Hunt bedding and artwork above the bed by Allyson Monson. See Resources.

Art is personal and people should use what they really love and not try to match anything to the room

W r apped

A Litchfield County remodel seamlessly blends with its rustic surroundings

Fade To Black

The home’s shiplap cedar siding is finished in a Benjamin Moore Arborcoat solid stain. The front door is from Simpson Door Company, and the windows are Marvin. See Resources.

in Nature

BY CATRIONA BRANCA | PHOTOGRAPHS BY MORTEN SMIDT

Situated on a bucolic property at the edge of a small lake, this home, built in the 1960s, is a magical retreat for nature lovers. But the 2,800-square-foot home with low ceilings and small windows didn’t fully embrace its natural surroundings and needed to provide more useable space for contemporary living. “We wanted to open up the house to the incredible land and nature all around,” explains Gisellah Harvey, a real estate agent who owns the home with husband Joseph Klotz, a film editor. “The main aim was to be able to see outside from almost any spot in the house.”

When it was time for the 1,800-square-foot addition and remodel, the couple enlisted the help of architectural designer Sarah Jefferys of Sarah Jefferys Architecture + Interiors, who had worked with them

Indoor-Outdoor Style (left) Pendants from Rejuvenation illuminate the screened-in porch. The sofa is from RH. See Resources.

on a renovation and addition at another property. “Sarah brought her fabulous design skills and was able to translate what we were after into exactly the space we wanted,” says Harvey. For these clients—who split their time between Brooklyn and Litchfield County—Jefferys sought to modernize the home while emphasizing a minimalist rustic charm. “They wanted to expand the home to house a new eat-in kitchen, screened-in porch and bedroom,” says Jefferys. “The former kitchen became an editing

studio for Joe to edit his movies—that space also has a large fireplace and now makes for a very cozy den/library/studio.”

Jefferys joined the original home to the addition by extending the existing gabled roofline. The exterior was updated with a darkstained cedar shiplap, while expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and doors were added to bring in abundant natural light. “The design is all about optimizing views, opening the house to the exterior, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior—the pond

“THE DESIGN IS ALL ABOUT OPTIMIZING VIEWS… BLURRING THE BOUNDARIES BETWEEN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR”

and views seep into the house,” notes Jefferys. “I love this about architecture—connecting buildings to their exterior environment. Let the site speak to you and help direct the design. We start projects by ‘feeling’ the site—the natural environment, the air, the sun, how the lights moves, reflects. It is a very organic process.”

A welcoming open-plan kitchen topped the homeowners list of must-haves. “We wanted a kitchen large enough for multiple people to cook and hang out,” says Harvey. “My feeling is that the kitchen is the living room of today—it’s the heart of the house. I cook all the time and wanted to make sure I wasn’t closed off in a separate space. I wanted a very functional, beautiful kitchen with no shelves or cabinets that I could not reach.”

The interior of the home strikes a balance of dark and light with an emphasis on wood details and a Scandinavian aesthetic. The kitchen cabinets are wire-brushed oak, while oak stools provide seating at the island. In the living room, furnishings include a walnut Organic Modernism credenza paired with an RH sofa and chairs. “Gisellah has amazing taste—this project was a real collaboration on the décor,” notes Jefferys. “She picked out all the furnishings herself, while we advised on materials and finishes.”

Large glass sliders open the kitchen/dining area to the exterior deck and screened-in porch, where a wall is finished with the same dark-stained cedar siding from the home’s facade. “The space is alive, breathing with the air, trees, pond outside,” says Jeffreys. Pops of color appear throughout the home, such as in the daughter’s bedroom, where the bed has colorful pillows from Jonathan Adler and a bright pink duvet that boldly contrasts with Farrow & Ball’s Railings, a soft black with blue undertones.

The whole project is an homage to effortless indoor-outdoor living, and these homeowners love being able to step outside from almost every room. “The deck is amazing: It’s like a live David Attenborough show sitting out there,” says Harvey. ✹

Rich Blends (clockwise from left) The landscape design by Earthtones

Native Plants uses a variety of native plants, in tune with the home’s organic finishes. The mudroom is painted in Farrow & Ball Railings, and the floor is Rawtech porcelain pavers. To the side of the house, a pool and hot tub by Litchfield County Pools is surrounded by a bluestone patio. In the bedroom nook, the throw pillows are from Jonathan Adler, and the Cypress wall sconces are from Rejuvenation. See Resources.

“I LOVE THIS ABOUT ARCHITECTURE—CONNECTING BUILDINGS TO THEIR EXTERIOR ENVIRONMENT. LET THE SITE SPEAK TO YOU AND HELP DIRECT THE DESIGN”

Family Time

When Emily Del Bello and her family relocated to Darien from NYC, it was time to make designing their own home a top priority

BY ANN LOYND BURTON | PHOTOGRAPHS BY KIRSTEN FRANCIS

Comforts Of Home

Interior designer Emily Del Bello filled the family room with a custom coffee table, a sectional in a Pollack wool and swivel chairs in a Romo gray boucle. S. Harris drapery and a Patterson Flynn rug add neutral texture. See Resources.

We saw a bunch of houses, and, stepping into this one, it just felt like a family home,” remembers designer Emily Del Bello, who, in 2020, was looking to plant roots in Darien after 10 years living in downtown Manhattan. “It needed to be updated, but the bones felt so special to me.”

Del Bello’s career was really taking off, so it was hard to spend all day working at her eponymous NYC design firm, then come home and log more hours. “We had to totally bring it up to speed and give the whole house a facelift,” she remembers. “My house was always last on the list, and it felt like the process was dragging on.”

To get things rolling, Del Bello prioritized completing the essentials before move-in. This included her two young sons’ bedrooms and all of the hardscaping— refreshing the walls and installing new floors throughout the house: “Those elements would be dusty and disruptive for our family,” the designer notes, enlisting Evan Dadoulis of Norwalk’s Smart Solution Contractors to keep things moving. The team was also careful to preserve the home’s character, like its arched entryways, exterior stucco walls and exposed-beam ceilings.

“Emily has a unique and fresh approach to design,” Dadoulis says. “I know at some point I’m going to wonder what she’s thinking, but in the end, without fail, it all comes together. She sees it before anyone else does, and as a builder I appreciate someone who has that vision.” The vision for this home was to preserve the garden, Mediterranean-inspired exterior and create a transitional/organic modern feel inside.

Everyday Luxe (clockwise across spread from opposite top) In the family room, Del Bello worked with Smart Solutions Contractors to wrap the original dark wood beams in white oak. A handpainted Fromental wallpaper by Nicole Fuller in the dining room is complemented by Trueing pendants and a custom table with vintage chairs covered in a Romo fabric. The designer preserved original arched doorways and added doors to existing built-in shelves in the living room. See Resources.

The next step was sourcing furniture, and finding the perfect pieces was both a labor of love and a unique challenge for Del Bello. “I had some things custom made, and there’s a lot of vintage. I wanted things that feel different and singular to our family,” she explains. “In the beginning, I wanted my house to be ‘us,’ but I was putting so much pressure on myself to make it something amazing and different.”

In an effort to think out-of-the-box and flex her muscles as an interior designer, Del Bello would sometimes get a piece home and question if she’d wandered too far from her comfort zone. “My husband, John, finally said, ‘No more ordering things unless you’d order them for a client. If you would, and it’s what you love, get that,’” she explains. “I went back to what I loved and trusted, and from there, all of the pieces started coming together.”

This included the designer’s tried-and-true principles, like favoring soft, organic shapes to hard edges. “I always do round corners in my designs. They have a better

Family Style

(left to right from above) The living room features vintage armchairs in shearling and an organic Homenature coffee table. Del Bello poses in the entry in front of a BAS Stone console table and artwork by Theo Pinto. A Relativity Textiles wallpaper lines the powderroom walls. See Resources.

I had some things custom made, and there’s a lot of vintage. I wanted things that feel different and singular to our family

flow in spaces, and then there’s the added bonus that when your kid is trying to be Spiderman and jumps off the sofa and hits his head, there are no sharp corners.” In fact, Del Bello’s sons (ages three and five) were front-of-mind with many design choices. “It’s all about the fibers,” the designer reveals. “Viscose for example…Yes, it’s gorgeous, but if water spills on the fabric, it’s done. I never want any child to feel like they can’t go in a certain room, or parents to feel nervous when their kids are over.”

So, while furniture erred toward practicality, lighting presented an opportunity to splurge. “I love lights; they’re the jewelry of the room,” she says. “They’re on the ceiling, no one can touch them, you can invest since they won’t be damaged.” For example, the Trueing chain pendants above the dining table reminded

Kids Only

In the toddler’s room (left), Phillip Jeffries wallcovering complements a Babyletto crib. Another child’s room (opposite page) sports an Elitis textured wallcovering, while skateboard artwork from MoMA makes a statement in both spaces. See Resources.

Del Bello of Jennifer Fisher earrings. Wallpaper presented another opportunity to go luxe. She selected handpainted Fromental wallpaper in the dining room and a dark-and-moody Relativity Textiles snake print in the powder room. Meanwhile, the children’s bedrooms wear plaid and textured vinyls that Del Bello says can withstand “dirty hands all over.”

The result echoes what the designer strives to deliver for many of her clients with young families—beautiful, unique, balanced interiors that are secretly durable and welcoming for children (and cocktail party guests) to run free. And Del Bello couldn’t be happier: “Not only did I grow as a designer, but I also found out what I truly love.” ✹

I never want any child to feel like they can’t go in a certain room, or parents to feel nervous when their kids are over

ROSE COTTAGE

BY JAMIE MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHS BY PAUL JOHNSON

Joyful color abounds in a Darien home with a Nantucket vibe

Warm Welcome

(left to right across spread from opposite page) The entry foyer sets the stage with its scenic Newport mural wallpaper from the Mural Source and reclaimed beams from New England Antique Lumber. Interior designer Carey Karlan enjoying her new digs. The landscape design around the cottage is by the Cutting Garden. See Resources.

Kitchen Magic (this page and opposite) The sunny kitchen and breakfast room sport a cheerful Alan Campbell grasscloth through Quadrille Fabrics, while a salt-washed oak dining table anchors six rattan chairs through Serena & Lily, and a pair of bistro chairs from Lloyd Flanders. See Resources.

The stars aligned the day Darien-based designer Carey Karlan and a friend walked past Rose Cottage, and her friend mentioned it was about to come on the market.

Karlan had long admired the house and its setting on half an acre near town.

“I loved the Tudor on Mansfield Street where I’d lived for more than 15 years,” she recalls. “But it’s a very vertical house. And with nine—soon to be 10— grandchildren, I had a vague longing for something with a better allocation of space and a flat, open yard. And, of course, oozing with charm.”

The 1826 antique had all that and more, including a pool, a large family room and a Nantucket vibe.

“I love Nantucket,” she adds. “I can’t wait to get some roses going on the garage.”

‘‘ ‘‘

At just under 2,000-square feet, the house was in good shape though much of its historical interest had been renovated away. “I wanted to put some of that back in,” she says. “But I wasn’t trying to make a museum piece.” The designer added painted paneling to the living room, took out a non-working chimney casing in the kitchen, and enlarged the opening of the door from the foyer to the living room by 18 inches. “Now, when you come in the French door to the family room, you can see straight through the foyer into the living room. It’s amazing what 18 inches can do for you.” In the process, she discovered some of the cottage’s original wooden beams behind the sheet rock.

When it came time for the interiors, the designer let each room take the lead. Having a variety of moods makes a small house seem bigger, Karlan says. Furnishings and accessories throughout are eclectic—a mix of modern and antique, high and low. “Part of my mission was to inject some of the charm that had been scrubbed away.”

To that end, the foyer with its Newport-themed wallpaper sets the stage for the rest of the house. “I thought this was the mood and the colors, and it has the Nantucket seaside vibe,” the designer says. Here, she put antique reclaimed beams around the doorways to “make it a little more of a room and give it more of a moment.”

The mood turns bright and breezy in the light-filled kitchen and breakfast room with its pine and rattan furniture and Kennebunkport green island. An Alan Campbell grasscloth with a green zigzag pattern is both modern and fun. “I really stewed over that wallcovering, but I decided to just go for it. It’s really happy,” she notes.

For the family room, Karlan envisioned more of a summer-porch vibe. The floors are painted a blue and white check pattern, the lamps are blue and chartreuse, and the sofa is covered in a nubby performance fabric that can hold up to the rigors of grandchildren. “I really love color,” Karlan says. “And

Suite Sensation

In the primary bedroom (opposite page), the headboard wears a Lee Jofa linen, bedside lamps are through Wakefield Design Center, and the velvet throw pillows are through the Linen Shop. The primary bathroom (this photo) has chinoiserie wallpaper from the Mural Source. The vintage Venetian mirrors are through the Antique and Artisan Gallery. See Resources.

Serene Sanctuary (left) Window seats in the primary bedroom flank doors that open onto a deck overlooking the yard.

green is my favorite color, and there’s a lot of that.”

Upstairs, the mood changes again in the primary bedroom, with its rose-patterned linen headboard, embroidered bed linens and inviting window seats. “It’s a very luxurious bedroom in a simple way,” she says. As is the primary bathroom, with its lyrical chinoiserie wallpaper, handpainted floor and Venetian-style mirrors. “You feel like you’re in a beautiful bower.”

For the front door, Karlan selected another beloved color, pink. It wasn’t until a neighbor stopped by to question her choice of hue, that she realized she might have gone a little too far. “It caused a lot of distracted driving in the neighborhood,” she says with a laugh. She has since toned the pink down, slightly. “Hey, even designers make mistakes,” she adds. ✹

Summer Breeze

At poolside (left), teak furniture from Seasons Too creates an inviting sitting area. In the family room (opposite page), a Lee Industries sofa and concrete Made Goods outdoor coffee table top the handpainted checkerboard floor by Shelly Denning. The vintage chartreuse lamp is from the Fairfield County Antique & Design Center, and the white side table is by Nina Campbell for Oomph. See Resources.

I really love color. And green is my favorite color, and there’s a lot of that

‘‘ ‘‘

Brazil’s Best

When you think of Brazil, you imagine samba, the girl from Ipanema, and Corcovado with its colossal Cristo Redentor statue. I doubt you think wine. While Brazil’s South American neighbors—Argentina and Chile—have swept the wine world with their bold Malbec and Carménère reds, Brazil is not known wine-wise, although domestically makes excellent sparkling wine. Something monumental happened just months ago: The Brazilian wine region of Altos de Pinto Bandeira received a Denominación de Origen (DO) becoming the first DO exclusively for sparkling wine in the New World. This is groundbreaking, bringing Brazil’s Pinto Bandeira into the prestigious DO club with France’s Champagne and Italy’s Franciacorta.

Mario Geisse, considered the grandfather of Brazil’s quality sparkling wine industry, worked for 10 years to bring about this rare DO recognition. In the mid-’70s, then Chilean winemaker Geisse was tapped by Moet & Chandon to work for Chandon in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul. For three years, Geisse made wine in the Charmat method (generating bubbles by carbonating the wine in steel tanks) versus the more expensive and elaborate méthode Champenoise, which involves a second fermentation in the bottle and long aging on the yeasts to refine the wine before it is riddled and disgorged.

BARONESS RECOMMENDS

Cave Amadeu Brut ($25)

With white flowers and ripe fruit on the nose, this 80 percent Chardonnay and 20 percent Pinot Noir, aged on its lees for 12 months, is crisp with persistent bubbles.

Cave Amadeu Brut Rosé ($25)

Lovely strawberry and raspberry aromas combine with tropical fruit and almond flavors in this 100 percent Pinot Noir with persistent perlage.

Terroir Rosé Nature ($55)

With a 95-point score from Decanter, this 100 percent Pinot Noir, aged 48 months, has light strawberry notes and fine bubbles from long aging.

Cave Geisse Nature ($35)

This exceptional wine has no dosage or additional sugar to mask the pure expression of ripe fruit. Aged for 24 months, it displays delicate flavors and a fine mousse.

To purchase: wine4theworld.com

Wanting to make his own méthode Champenoise sparkling, Geisse bought small parcels at high altitude in southern Brazil to grow Champagne grapes—Chardonnay and Pinot Noir—and opened Familia Geisse in the Altos de Pinto Bandeira region. Aiming for the best quality, Geisse insisted everything be done by hand and the grapes be grown organically. He used thermal pest control technology: Wind turbines blow 140-degree air for a split second onto the vineyards, blowing off bugs and stressing the vines, making them more resilient to insects. Three fortunate conditions enabled Geisse to make spectacular sparkling wines. The vineyards are perched at 2,400 feet above sea level, where the cooler temperatures keep fresh acidity in the grapes. The climate allows for full ripening. At harvest, the 40 micro-terroir sites are picked and vinified in separate batches and then blended into the final cuvées. And the site possesses Cretaceous-era soil, which imparts the allimportant minerality, giving the wines complexity and mineral nuance.

On the socially responsible front, the winery is fully solar-powered, and all employees are provided housing and a share of the winery’s profits. With elegant and delicious cuvées receiving eye-popping scores by major critics, Familia Geisse is the only winery from the new DO that is exported to the United States. — Baroness Sheri de Borchgrave

High Altitude Bubbly Mario Geisse makes sparkling wines at his Familia Geisse vineyards in Brazil’s Altos de Pinto Bandeira region. familiageisse.com.br.

SPARKLING WINES FROM THE LAND OF SAMBA

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on October 24th, at the Greenwich Country Club, to honor James Doyle as this year’s Innovator Award Recipient, along with the 2023 Winners and Finalists!

Celebrating Garden Design

CTC&G was the proud media sponsor of the Greenwich Historical Society’s inaugural spring tour and patron party

1. Alexandra Kittle, Lauren duPont of Aerin, Lisa Errico, Honorary Chair Aerin Lauder, Susannah Heyworth of Trovare Home and Greenwich Historical Society Co-chair Catherine Tompkins

2 A picturesque evening at the midcountry home of Lisa and Chris Errico

3 . Interior designer Jean Doyen de Montaillou, Michael Kovner of Brown Harris Stevens and architect Douglas VanderHorn 4 Botanical sheep by Lewis Miller Design welcomed the guests. 5 . C&G Media Group Account Directors Jamie Lewis, Wendy Horwitz and Lisa Heissan

6. Landscape architects James Doyle and Justin Quinn 7 Greenwich Historical Society Executive Director and CEO Debra Mecky and Pamela Putnam Smith

8 . Mimi Moulton and Killeen Faughnan 9 Jessica Dubner and Yashmin Lloyds of Compass 10. Greenwich Historical Society’s Dianne Niklaus and Maggie Dimock

Ring’s End Hosts the HBRA

The HBRA of Fairfield County hosted its annual meeting at Ring’s End in Darien with CTC&G

2.

Quinn,

Benedetti

Karen Generalis,

Chad

and Marvin’s Jeffrey McCluskey 4. Colleen Stewart of Emtek Hardware and Nantucket Sinks and Maria DeFiore of Ring’s End 5. HBRA President John Hertz and HBRA Executive Officer Kerry Brunn 6. Ring’s End’s Matt Magda, Richard Cahill, Scott Herling and Colin Campbell 7. Interior designers Stephanie Rapp and Laura Michaels 8. Interior designer Tori McBrien, architect John Jones and Melanie Ruggieri of Homer

C. Godfrey Company 9. Stage to Move’s Christina Foley and Bonnie Zuccala with Edward Mortimer of Sotheby’s and Kara Woods of Stage to Move

1. Chris Pike of Clarke Distirbutors and C&G Account Director Jamie Lewis pose at the CTC&G booth.

Andersen Windows & Doors’ Drew Comeau, Sandy

Mike

and Tony Pion 3. Marvin’s

Ring’s End’s

Overbaugh

Gala in the Garden

Summer Kick Off

1 C&G Media Group CEO & Publication Director Marianne Howatson and Rachelle Louis of JennAir 2. Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Daniel Quintero, Scott Gress, John Massey and John Popa 3. Designer Christopher Peacock and CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey 4. Carolyn McDonough and Cynthia Matrullo of Diane James Home flank Christopher Peacock 5. Architect Andrew Bartolotta and Mindy Gerhardt of Cornerstone Contracting

1 Senator Richard Blumenthal 2 . Aldrich Trustee and artist Rudy Shepherd and Erin Dooley

3 . Artist and musician James Prosek 4 Art in America Senior Editor Emily Watlington and Associate Curator Eduardo Andres Alfonso 5 Artist Rachel Berwick, honoree Richard Klein and Melissa Marr

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum had its annual spring gala with CTC&G

The Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club along with CTC&G and Christopher Peacock kicked off the summer at the Country Club of New Canaan

Presents

Legacy

nantucket by design

August 2–5, 2023

As the Nantucket Historical Association’s summer fundraiser, Nantucket by Design celebrates design with engaging keynote speakers, unique discussions, a partnership with The Nantucket Summer Antiques Show, a design panel, and more!

2023 Design Luminaries

Learn more and purchase tickets at NHA.org

Follow us @NantucketbyDesign

Ashley Hicks & Martina Mondadori

Steele Marcoux

Thomas Jayne Wambui Ippolito

India Hicks

Nicholas Varney

RESOURCES MORE

LOVE AT FIRST SHIMMER

Pages 46–53: Interior design, Denise Davies, D2 Interieurs, d2interieurs. com. Breakfast area: Table, Robert James Collection. Chairs, CB2. Light, Muuto. Bowl, West|Out East. Girls’ lounge area: Sofa, Rove Concepts. Ceiling light fixture, The Future Perfect. Ottoman and pillow fabrics, Knoll. Throw, Fibre by Auskin. Wall art, Hayley Sheldon through Eunoia Modern. Office: Wallpaper, Emma Hayes. Sofa, CB2. Coffee table, Anthropologie. Lamp, Shine by Sho. Living room: Ceiling fixture, Blueprint Lighting. Sconces, Allied Maker. Sofas and chairs, D2 Interieurs. Coffee table, Arteriors. Chair fabric, Mokum. Pillow, Emilio Pucci. Side table, Made Goods.

Kitchen: Pendants, Gabriel Scott. Bar stools, Rove Concepts. Dining room: Rug, table and chairs, D2 Interieurs. Chair fabric, Holly Hunt. Chandelier, Apparatus. Art, Jenna Krypell through Eunoia Modern. Wallpaper, Phillip Jeffries. Family room: Sectional fabric, Morgan Fabrics. Sectional and coffee table, D2 Interieurs. Table, Robert James Collection. Light, Muuto. Chairs, CB2. Artwork, Jeremy Holmes through Eunoia Modern. Girl’s bedroom: Wallpaper, Drop It Modern. Art, CLoD through Appleton Art Design. Pouf, 1stDibs. Ceiling light fixture, The Light Factory. Throw fabric, Designers Guild. Bed, D2 Interieurs. Primary bedroom: Bed and rug, D2 Interieurs. Bed fabric, Holly Hunt. Wallpaper, Phillip Jeffries. Window treatment, Mokum. Art, Allyson Monson Photography. Lamps, 1stDibs. Ceiling light fixture, A-Emotional Light.

WRAPPED IN NATURE

Pages 54–61: Architectural and interior design, Sarah Jefferys Architecture + Interiors, sjdny.com. Builder, Tim Snellar, T&S Builders, LLC, tsbuildersllc.com. Landscape design, Lisa Turoczi, Earthtones Native Plants, earthtonesnatives.com. Exterior: Paint, Benjamin Moore. Front door, Simpson Door Company. Sliding doors and windows, Marvin. Screened-in porch: Pendant lights, Rejuvenation. Furniture, RH. Sliding doors and windows, Marvin. Kitchen: Dining table, Bludot. Cabinetry, F&O Carpentry. Island stools, Etsy. Living room: Credenza, 1stDibs. Armchairs, RH. Sliding doors, Marvin. Mudroom: Paint, Farrow & Ball. Floor, Rawtech through Stone Source. Bedroom: Wallpaper, Coordonne. Pillows, Jonathan Adler. Duvet, Target. Sconces, Rejuvenation. Pool area: Pool and hot tub, Litchfield County Pools.

from “Wrapped in Nature”

FAMILY TIME

Pages 62–69: Interior design, Emily Del Bello, Emily Del Bello Interiors, emilydbinteriors.com. Contractor, Smart Solution Contractors, LLC, 203857-0665. Family room: Sectional fabric, Pollack. Coffee table, Emily Del Bello Interiors. Swivel chairs fabric, Romo. Drapery fabric, S. Harris. Rug, Patterson Flynn. Dining room: Table, Emily Del Bello Interiors. Light fixture, Trueing Studio. Wallpaper, Fromental. Chairs, The Collective. Paint, Farrow & Ball. Living room: Sofa, Home Union NYC. Sofa fabric, Holly Hunt. Area rug, Patterson Flynn. Armchairs, The Collective. Coffee table, Homenature. Entry: Console table, BAS Stone. Artwork, Theo Pinto. Paint, Benjamin Moore. Powder room: Wallpaper, Relativity Textiles. Window treatment fabric, Kravet. Faucet, Ferguson. Mirror, Burke Décor. Kids’ room: Crib, Babyletto. Carpet, Patterson Flynn. Artwork, Layer Cake. Wallpaper, Phillip Jeffries and Elitis. Skateboard artwork, MoMA.

ROSE COTTAGE

Pages 70–79 : Interior design, Carey Karlan, Last Detail Interior Design, careykarlan.com. Landscape design, The Cutting Garden, cuttinggarden. com. Contractor, Executive Craftsman, executivecraftsman.com. Entry hall: Wallpaper mural, The Mural Source. Chair, The Antique and Artisan Gallery. Antique beams, New England Antique Lumber, newenglandantiquelumber.com.

Kitchen: Table and chairs, Serena & Lily. Chairs, Lloyd Flanders through

Seasons Too. Wallpaper, Quadrille. Slipcover fabric on dining chairs, Jane Churchill through Cowtan & Tout. Primary bedroom: Lamps, Wakefield Design Center. Headboard and bed skirt fabric, Lee Jofa. Bed linens, The Linen Shop. Primary bath: Wallpaper mural, The Mural Source. Venetian mirrors, The Antique & Artisan Gallery. Bath accessories, The Linen Shop. Painted floor, Shelly Denning Decorative Painting. Poolside: Furniture, Seasons Too. Family room: Sofa and chairs, Lee Industries from Wakefield Design Center. Coffee table, Made Goods through Wakefield Design Center. Painted floor, Shelly Denning Decorative Painting. Lamp tables, Oomph. Paper flower, The Green Vase. Tole tray and lamps, Fairfield County Antique & Design Center.

SOURCE LIST

1stDibs, 1stdibs.com

A-Emotional Light, a-emotionallight.com

Allied Maker, alliedmaker.com

Allyson Monson Photography, allysonmonsonphotography.com

Anthropologie, anthropologie.com

Apparatus, apparatusstudio.com

Appleton Art Design, appletonartdesign.com

Arteriors, arteriorshome.com

Babyletto, babyletto.com

BAS Stone, 718-433-4433

Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com

Bludot, bludot.com

Blueprint Lighting, blueprintlighting.com Burke Décor, burkedecor.com

CB2, cb2.com

CLoD (see Appleton Art Design)

Coordonne, coordonne.com

Cowtan & Tout, cowtan.com

D2 Interieurs, d2interieurs.com

Designers Guild, designersguild.com

Drop It Modern, dropitmodern.com

Elitis, elitis.fr

Emilio Pucci, pucci.com

Emily Del Bello Interiors, emilydbinteriors.com

Emma Hayes, emmahayes.co.nz

Etsy, etsy.com

Eunoia Modern, eunoiamodern.com

F&O Carpentry, 203-770-6175

Fairfield County Antique & Design Center, fairfieldantiqueanddesign.com

Farrow & Ball, farrow-ball.com

Ferguson, ferguson.com

Fibre by Auskin, fibrebyauskin.com

Fromental, fromental.co.uk

Gabriel Scott, gabriel-scott.com

Hayley Sheldon (see Eunoia Modern)

Holly Hunt, hollyhunt.com

Home Union NYC, homeunionnyc.com

Homenature, homenature.com

Jane Churchill (see Cowtan & Tout)

Jenna Krypell (see Eunoia Modern)

Jeremy Holmes (see Eunoia Modern)

Jonathan Adler, jonathanadler.com

Knoll, knoll.com

Kravet, kravet.com

Layer Cake, layercakeny.com

Lee Industries (see Wakefield Design

Center)

Lee Jofa, kravet.com

Litchfield County Pools, lcpools.com

Lloyd Flanders (see Seasons Too)

Made Goods, madegoods.com

Marvin, marvin.com

Mokum, mokumtextiles.com

MoMA, store.moma.org

Morgan Fabrics, morgan-fabrics.com

Muuto, us.muuto.com

New England Antique Lumber, newenglandantiquelumber.com

Oomph, oomphhome.com

Patterson Flynn, pattersonflynn.com

Phillip Jeffries, phillipjeffries.com

Pollack, pollackassociates.com

Quadrille, quadrillefabrics.com

Rawtech (see Stone Source)

Rejuvenation, rejuvenation.com

Relativity Textiles, relativitytextiles.com

RH, rh.com

Robert James Collection, robertjamescollection.com

Romo, romo.com

Rove Concepts, roveconcepts.com

S. Harris, fabricut.com

Seasons Too, seasonstoo.com

Serena & Lily, serenaandlily.com

Shelly Denning Decorative Painting, 203-912-4145

Shine by Sho, shinebysho.com

Simpson Door Company, simpsondoor.com

Stone Source, stonesource.com

Target, target.com

The Antique & Artisan Gallery, theantiqueandartisangallery.com

The Collective, thecollectivect.com

The Future Perfect, thefutureperfect.com

The Green Vase, thegreenvase.com

The Light Factory, thelightfactory.net

The Linen Shop, thelinenshopct.com

The Mural Source, themuralsource.com

Theo Pinto, theopintostudio.com

Trueing Studio, trueing.com

Wakefield Design Center, wakefielddesigncenter.com

West|Out East, westouteast.com

PAUL JOHNSON

from “Rose Cottage”

Kit Kemp

Once upon a time, there was a girl reading fairy stories, walking in the misty countryside, playing with her mother’s textile collection. Kit Kemp grew up to design hotels and interior accessories, and those childhood themes carry through in her whimsical colorful designs combining imagination, tradition and daring, in what’s been called “decorative chutzpah.”

A collection of tableware for Spode is the latest project for Kemp, founder and creative director of Firmdale Hotels and head of her namesake design studio. The 10 hotels in Great Britain and the U.S. are created with her husband, Tim, a partnership launched when she was hired to help him produce student accommodations in London. Celebrated for fanciful décor with one-of-a-kind rooms incorporating crafts, contemporary art and colorful storytelling, their innovative inns have helped reshape the hotel experience and hospitality industry.

On weekends, she returns to New Forest not far from where she grew up. “There’s a whole folklore about this part of the world, dating back to William the Conqueror,” she says. “It’s fascinating to get to know the local people.” Four dogs— Rupert, Pixie, Bear and Buttons—accompany walks around the grounds, which Kemp’s husband has dubbed her “theme park”—a fanciful garden overlooking the sea, enhanced with a Romani caravan, a shepherd’s cabin and a hobbit hut, where sunset cocktails are sipped…happily ever after. kitkemp.com.

Why should rooms tell a story? I love rooms that tell you a lot about the people living there. When you enter, it should look as if it has a story within it. Every room should have character.

How do you create stories within hotel rooms? Every room is different, with an interesting headboard or carpet, the story starts there, and every room should have the “five Cs”—color, comfort, craft, character, curation.

Why do you install decorated dress mannequins in the rooms? We did it right from the beginning. It’s like a sculpture in the room, and we’re doing all kinds of things with it, adding a top in one fabric and a border in between, pinning on a piece of jewelry, we can have fun with it, plus it’s also terribly useful—guests can hang a coat or hat on it.

With all the textures, whimsy and color, how do you avoid overwhelming? You can’t use too many hot colors together, it has to feel calm. We use only one large-scale print and then a smaller, maybe a small geometric. You keep the playfulness within it, but a room needs to breathe.

Are the U.S. hotel designs different from those in Britain? They aren’t. If you design what you think people will want, you never get it right. There must be a point of view, and design is like Marmite; somebody is going to love it or hate it. The worst thing is indifference.

You design such a range of items—textiles, ceramics, flatware, glasses, pillows, carpets. How do you approach such varied projects? Everything is always a challenge, butterflies in the tummy, it’s never straightforward. You start, it goes wrong, way off beam, and you must bring it back, and hopefully at the end, you have something better than the original idea.

Color & Whimsy In this room (above) at the Soho Hotel London, the headboard fabric—Nomad linen, Jamboree by Ellen Merchant—is complemented by the wallcovering in Fermoie’s Wave. Willow Kemp’s Spode “Doodles” line (left) sports her playful drawings.

Why do you collaborate with prisoners as part of the Fine Cell Work program? It’s an amazing worthwhile charity. They’ve done headboards, footstools, embellished mirrors, lampshades. At the moment, they’re making bedcovers out of patchwork. If you can get some prisoner to learn and believe in themselves and move from their old way of life, it’s a job well done.

What project would you like to design? We saw “Sleeping Beauty” at the Royal Opera. It was so ethereal and magical. It would be wonderful to design the sets for a ballet. I don’t care which ballet, as long as it has a wonderful story and glorious costumes.

What’s it like working with your daughters? Tiffany, who’s a mother now, was sensible enough not to work with me. Minnie is an explosion of ideas, and Willow’s Spode “Doodles” drawings are joyful. I leave them to do what they think is right. You have to give them a lot of space, allow them to have their heads.—Sharon King Hoge