CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens) OCTOBER, 2023

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN GREENWICH ORRICKANDCOMPANY.COM

Odyssey Collection

From Our Home to Yours

As a family company, we know exactly what goes into our high performance paints. We make eco-friendly paints in our own factory in the UK, using only the very highest quality ingredients. These are blended by our dedicated team who have been creating lovely paints in wonderful colours for generations.

Showroom opening this Fall: 9 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 Order free colour cards on our

Benjamin Moore paint is only sold at locally owned stores. Shop 3,500+ vibrant, unmatchable shades at Ring’s End.

PARTY IN THE BACK

The homeowners wanted a really special swimming pool, a seating and dining area on the concrete patio, and a separate garden area (left and above). The outdoor kitchen incorporates a storage cabinet with stainless steel doors that complement the dark gray gradients at play in the Pro-Fit Modera Ledgestone—chosen in the Carbon colorway (below).

When the homeowner’s resume touts “Instagram cofounder,” you can bet the landscape design will be picture perfect. After designer Todd Peddicord reimagined this young California couple’s new home, they craved a backyard that could match the quality of their interiors. “The yard was nicely landscaped, but there was nothing to it,” Peddicord remembers. “I approached it the same way I do with an interior. No boundaries, no limits, let’s discuss your ideal space.”

The homeowners prefer intimate hangouts over large parties, so Peddicord created several cozy seating areas—a fireplace with a sofa and chairs, a dining table for six and a built-in buffet space, and floating ottomans placed all around. “There are little destination spots to hang out throughout the yard,” he says.

“A big approach I take in my outdoor spaces is really to elevate them with quality

materials. You often see a beautiful backyard with the same stone throughout and in the kitchen area. I like to diversify the materials. There’s so much more visual interest, and it really pops.

DESIGNER TODD PEDDICORD USED MODERN MATERIALS FROM CULTURED STONE TO ELEVATE THE VISUAL IMPACT OF A TECH TYCOON’S BACKYARD.

TO READ MORE ABOUT THIS STATE-OF-THE-ART WEST COAST BACKYARD, VISIT COTTAGESGARDENS.COM/CULTUREDSTONEPEDDICORD

YOUR IMAGINATION

™ /

AWAKEN YOUR SURROUNDINGS ™

Photograph by Read McKendree on the

Photograph by Read McKendree

A Sense of Place

Assembling this magazine is so much more than plastering beautiful homes across these pages. Sure, we have stunning houses. The combined work of homeowners, architects, builders, as well as landscape and interior designers, come together to make a cohesive package. But we want more. We want the why. When our writers interview homeowners to get to know them and their design choices, a common response seems to emerge. More often than not, homeowners point to the fact that the history of the home was an inspiration or a starting point—a launching pad to make it their own. They are honoring the rich architectural history of many of the houses, yet they are not bound by it. But before you roll your eyes about stuffy old houses, I ask you to look at the homes we have covered during these past 19 years of our publication. ■ We designed this magazine to be reflective of the homeowner. The magazine set out to celebrate a sense of place month after month. Some in our industry voiced concern that Connecticut was a “one-look state” in terms of design. I knew that nothing could be farther from the truth. I knew my job from the very first issue was to demonstrate the stunning variety of architecture all around us: Colonials, farmhouses, contemporaries, homes created from industrial structures, and let’s not forget our moderns by the Harvard Five. I was on a mission to mix things up and show readers—and naysayers everywhere—what was in their own backyards. ■ So I do laugh when someone in the industry claims that CTC&G is the look that Hollywood created. Open an issue and I know you will be happily surprised. And read how homeowners create homes that are based in history but are thriving today. Now, that’s a sense of place.

DJ Carey Editorial Director djcarey@candg.com

See “West Coast Vibes” on page 70 for more of this project by Susana Simonpietri of Chango & Co.

CHICHI UBIÑA; HAIR AND MAKEUP BY WARREN TRICOMI SALON AND SPA, GREENWICH; READ MCKENDREE

The Incredible Journey of Pink Aid

In 2011, we at Connecticut Cottages & Gardens (CTC&G) faced a challenge. Despite the success of our annual fundraising lunch in partnership with Valerie Wilson Travel to benefit breast cancer charities, we found ourselves pondering, “What more can we do? How can we elevate our impact?” Enter Andrew Mitchell of Mitchells stores—a kindred spirit in philanthropy—and so began the evolution of what would become a remarkable initiative: Pink Aid. ■ A collaborative effort between CTC&G, Mitchells stores and WSAA was sparked by a simple yet deeply resonant conversation. Andrew Mitchell had at his disposal a devoted customer base eager to give back to the community. At CTC&G, we had the platform, the audience and the network of designers and philanthropists. It was a natural, synergistic partnership waiting to happen. ■ The inaugural event was no ordinary affair: It was a glittering Champagne luncheon with elements designed to inspire, educate and celebrate life. A high-profile speaker enlightened the audience, in a dialogue about their experience with the disease. The designer fashion show that followed was not just a parade of pretty clothes, it was a beacon of artistry and optimism. ■ Yet the most poignant part of the day was the Warrior fashion show, where breast cancer survivors took to the runway. Dressed in designer outfits, their radiant smiles and undeniable courage captured everyone’s hearts, turning the room into a sanctuary of hope and resilience. The VIP seating area in the first two rows featured pink chairs—a visual and symbolic embodiment of Pink Aid’s mission. These chairs were more than just pieces of furniture: Designed and donated by local designers who are an integral part of our community, these chairs spoke volumes about collective A landmark moment in this journey came when our sister , cofounded Pink Aid New York ten years ago with Ali Mitchell of Mitchells, Long Island. This new chapter heralded Pink Aid’s national aspirations. ■ In the philanthropic world, few stories are as inspiring as the journey of Pink Aid. What began as a regional collaboration has expanded into a national phenomenon. Pink Aid is now making waves in 43 states, demonstrating the extraordinary power of collective compassion and action. Our motto, “Compassion Until There’s a Cure,” propels us forward as we continue to engage communities, amplify our reach, and strive to make a difference, one life at a time.

Marianne Howatson CEO/Publication Director mhowatson@candg.com

For A Good Cause This ring—Marquis sunstone surrounded by diamonds, set in 18K white gold— was donated by Lynne Mercein Handcrafted Fine Jewelry, for the Pink Aid auction on October 12 in Westport. lynnemercein.com, pinkaid.org.

OCTOBER 2023

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MARIANNE HOWATSON

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DJ CAREY

ART DIRECTOR JOSEPH ULATOWSKI

SENIOR ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR KRISTEN HOGE

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR LYDIA MATTSON

EXECUTIVE EDITOR CATRIONA BRANCA

SENIOR EDITOR

MARY FITZGERALD

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

SHERI DE BORCHGRAVE, ANN LOYND BURTON, HELEN KLISSER DURING, EVA HAGBERG, ANN KAISER, JAMIE MARSHALL, TOVAH MARTIN, DAVID MASELLO, MINDY PANTIEL, HARRIET MAYS POWELL, ALEXA STEVENSON, SUSAN TAMULEVICH

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

JULIE BIDWELL, WILLIE COLE, TRIA GIOVAN, JOHN GRUEN, HULYA KOLABAS, NEIL LANDINO JR., TIM LEE, TIM LENZ, ELLEN MCDERMOTT, ANASTASSIOS MENTIS, MARCO RICCA, RIKKI SNYDER

EDITOR AT LARGE SHARON KING HOGE PROOFREADER ANNETTE ROSE-SHAPIRO

EDITORIAL & DIGITAL INTERN CLAIRE CHMIEL

C&G MEDIA GROUP

EDITORIAL DIRECTORS DJ CAREY, KENDELL CRONSTROM

PUBLISHER, HC&G PAMELA ELDRIDGE 917-535-8226

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, NYC&G MELISSA GROHER ROSENBLUTH 860-906-7182

ACCOUNT DIRECTORS

LISA HEISSAN | 917-294-1897

WENDY HORWITZ | 914-260-2738

SALES INTERN NICHOLAS MEACHEN

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, EVENTS AND PR JENNIFER BARBARO

MARKETING AND EVENTS SENIOR ASSOCIATE

STEPHANIE YALAMAS

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER SARAH RUSSO

JAMIE LEWIS | 917-744-8106

LAURA MEYER | 203-243-4057

ROBIN O’HARA | 646-245-8650

PRODUCTION MANAGER CARLA EVANS 203-520-6533

BUSINESS MANAGER/HR CAROL ABRAMS

FINANCE MANAGER ROSEANN BROWN

FINANCE ASSOCIATE JOY MARSHALL

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM

dailyDEEDS.COM

DIGITAL AND MARKETING ASSOCIATE DAILYDEEDS.COM EDITOR

PRODUCER

DIGITAL INTERNS

JACQUELYN SHANNON ANNE GIORDANO

MICHAEL EKSTRACT

ISABEL GOUVEIA, ANNIKA HOLMBERG

DISTRIBUTION DIRECT MARKETING DISTRIBUTION

CONSUMER MARKETING NEXT STEPS MARKETING THEA SELBY AND KAREN L. CUNNINGHAM PRODUCTION SERVICES INTERNATIONAL COLOR SERVICES

#JulieKnows

Legacy Properties

Originally settled in 1640, Greenwich is one of the oldest municipalities in the country, with countless centenarian homes still standing. Having represented many buyers and sellers of these legacy properties I know the particular challenges and opportunities presented by these coveted beauties. Purchasing an historic home is a journey into a world of charm, character, and cultural significance.

Greenwich’s 19th & early 20th century homes are more than just structures; they are living artifacts that reflect the architectural styles, design sensibilities, and societal norms of their respective periods. Walking through these homes can transport you to a different era, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Purchasing a Classic is an investment not only in real estate, but also in history. The intrinsic value of these homes tends to appreciate in both monetary and cultural terms, especially as supply dwindles over time. Their unique stories and architectural significance make them sought-after properties, attracting anyone with a taste for both legacy and luxury.

If your Greenwich home search includes a bit of nostalgia, a skilled agent with extensive experience in dealing with homes of historic significance is a must. Unlike newer homes, older properties may introduce terms that are unfamiliar or frightening to today’s buyers: asbestos, knot-and-tube wiring, lathe and plaster walls, and balloon framing, to name but a few. Let me be your guide.

Best, JGB

In This Issue

SUSANA SIMONPIETRI

“Good design for me is when a space makes me feel joyous, happy, relaxed and comfortable. I am a believer that there are no real rules in design and that, ultimately, people should live the way that makes them happy.”

Interior designer, “West Coast Vibes” (page 70), chango.com.

Associate

“Being an art dealer who is often wearing the hat of an art advisor and collaborating with interior designers routinely, I would say that ‘good design’ should stand the test of time. While fads come and go and interests change, taste does not, and design founded on guiding principles of quality, harmony and proportion will withstand the fluctuations of time. The same goes for art—one should buy works that will hold up over time and in a variety of environments.”

Art dealer, “Spotlight” (page 42), arcfineartllc.com.

ADRIENNE RUGER CONZELMAN ASHLEY DARRYL

“For me, good design is a combination of a couple key elements. The components of a room should not only be aesthetically pleasing in design, color and proportion but comfortable and long-lasting as well. It’s refreshing when every space in a home can be used and enjoyed!” Interior designer, “Gorgeous Georgian” (page 78), ashleydarryl.com.

—Mary Fitzgerald

WHAT ARE THE TENETS OF GOOD DESIGN?

October 2023

D&D FALL MARKET

5

Join CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey at the David Sutherland showroom during the D&D Fall Market. Carey will moderate the “Intersection of Architecture and Landscape” with Justin Quinn, partner at James Doyle Design Associates and Andrew Kotchen, founding principal of Workshop/APD. The panel will explore indoor/ outdoor living and the design collaborations between architects and landscape architects, followed by book signings. October 5, 1:30 p.m., David Sutherland Showroom, D&D Building, 979 Third Ave. Suite 401, NYC. For more information and to register, visit ddbuilding.com.

PINK AID CT

Pink Aid CT, alongside co-founder CTC&G, invites guests to its 13th annual event and fashion show at Mitchells of Westport. For this year’s theme, “Pink Land,” attendees will enjoy a runway show and have the opportunity to bid on luxury items and experiences during the silent and live auctions. Proceeds from the event benefit Pink Aid and its continued support for women with breast cancer.

Thursday, October 12, 11 a.m. Mitchells of Westport, 670 Post Road E., Westport. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit pinkaid.org.

CTC&G presents the 16th annual Innovation in Design Awards (IDAs). The elite competition honors the region’s top design and architecture projects in the categories of Architecture, Interior Design, Bath Design, Kitchen Design, Garden Design, Small Space Design, and Product Design. This year, the 2023 Innovator Award will be presented to renowned landscape designer James Doyle. Tuesday, October 24, 6 p.m. Greenwich Country Club, 19 Doubling Rd., Greenwich. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit cgidas. com/connecticut.

CTC&G is the proud media sponsor of the LockwoodMathews Mansion Museum’s “Get in the Groove! The Mansion’s 1960s Gala.” Celebrate the museum’s enduring legacy at this enchanting event featuring special presentations, music from the ’60s, dinner, dancing, a live auction and more. Dress in vintage glamour or 1960s-inspired attire. Saturday, October 14, 7 p.m., Shorehaven Golf Club, 14 Canfield Ave., Norwalk. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit, getinthegroovegala.eventbrite.com.

The Community Fund of Darien will host its annual “Designed to Dine” event Wednesday, October 25. This incredible luncheon will feature 30 unique tablescapes from the area's top interior designers and artisans. CTC&G’s Editorial Director DJ Carey will moderate a discussion with style couple and Leeway Home cofounders Sam Dumas and Lyle Maltz. All proceeds from the luncheon will support The Community Fund of Darien's mission to provide Stamford, Norwalk and Darien neighbors access to food, shelter, physical and mental healthcare, job training and youth success programs. Wednesday, October 25, 10 a.m. Wee Burn Country Club, 410 Hollow Tree Ridge Rd., Darien. For more information, visit communityfunddarien.org.

FROM NYC TO WESTPORT

Spend an hour at a Clarke Showroom and one thing is clear: your time with a Clarke Consultant is the most valuable part of your kitchen journey. While they’re not designers, these are the people designers call on when it comes to appliance recommendations. You won’t buy anything at Clarke, so there’s simply no pressure. What you can do is compare more Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove models than anywhere in New England. And explore a living portfolio of kitchens created by the region’s top designers. You’ll leave inspired with new knowledge to make your appliance selections with confidence.

New England’s Official Showroom and Test Kitchen

Boston & Milford, MA South Norwalk, CT 800-842-5275 clarkeliving.com

With a global luxury perspective informed by living in the Seychelles, Marco Barallon is perhaps the savviest appliance expert in the Northeast. For more than 20 years, architects, designers and homeowners have relied on his expertise.

Without Marco, it wouldn’t be Clarke.

Out of the Box

DON’T SHY AWAY FROM WALLCOVERINGS—BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE WITH THESE FEARLESS AND FUN DESIGNS!

|

BY MARY FITZGERALD

BOLD+BEAUTIFUL

1. QUADRILLE

Clementine, fashioned from an antique embroidered Suzani textile panel, is offered in eight colors in both fabrics and now wallpapers. quadrillefabrics.com.

2. CAROLINE CECIL

Raja is a handcarved stamp design created by artist Caroline Cecil for her eponymous line of textiles and wallpapers. Her large-scale motif signifies strength and power. somerselle.com, carolinececiltextiles.com.

3. JIM THOMPSON

Dawnridge, a collaborative collection between Jim Thompson and designer Hutton Wilkinson, is inspired by Tony Duquette’s chic Beverly Hills home. Lending glamour to a room, Golden Sunburst is a showstopper in a mix of matte and metallic inks. jimthompsonfabrics.com.

4. YORK WALLCOVERINGS

Look closely and take in the interplay of form, color and texture of the Nikki Chu Modern Tribal wallpaper. Intricately patterned and iridescent, the geometric design is offered in five colorways, shown here in Almond/ Navy. yorkwallcoverings.com.

5. ÉLITIS

Lin Piatre, a new collection from Élitis, includes Muse. The plaster-effect finish in textural, earthy shades is highlighted with glimmering bronze metallic accents. elitisfr.com.

6. STUDIO FOUR NYC

The Wayne Pate + Studio

Four NYC Pompeii collection is inspired by Pate's travels to Italy. Fresco in Corallo is shown here. studiofournyc.com.

7. PIERRE FREY

Tuamotu, printed on straw with a non-woven backing, is based on a contemporary ink drawing—an abstract depiction of its namesake archipelago in French Polynesia. pierrefrey.com.

8. KATHRYN HUNT

STUDIO The idea for Bridges was conceived on a trip designer Kathryn Hunt took to San Sebastian in Northern Spain. The Ocean colorway mimics the sea glass hues of the surrounding water and landscape. Printed to order, the wallpaper can be custom colored with additional ground options. somerselle.com, kathrynhuntstudio.com.

FLORAL+FAUNA

1. MANUEL CANOVAS

Bring the warmth of the tropics home with Manuel Canovas’ fanciful palm tree design, Florida. Shown here in the Lagon colorway. cowtan.com.

2. HARLEQUIN

Perfect for a powder room, the watercolor Koi pattern is printed on a widewidth wallpaper. Shown here in Paprika. Available through Wallpaper Direct, wallpaperdirect.com, sandersondesigngroup.com.

3. GRAHAM & BROWN

One of three new wallpapers from Graham & Brown, Amherst Garden is an illustrative design with a shimmering mica effect. The rich palette of colorways includes Sage, shown here, Teal, Bonze and Mulberry. grahambrown.com.

4. SCALAMANDRÉ

The timeless motif of Marimekko's Unikko wallpaper features whimsical, largescale flowers. Shown here in Oyster, it's also available in Sand, Tangerine and Sky. scalamandre.com.

5. DESIGNERS GUILD

The Brocart Decoratif wallpaper panel features finely painted flowers emerging from a painterly landscape. Shown here in Sephia, the design is digitally printed onto a matte non-woven ground but is also available on grasscloth. designersguild.com.

6. SCHUMACHER

Bird Tree in Cockatoo Red by Neisha Crosland for Schumacher is a modern take on a traditional floral motif. The large-scale design owes its graphic simplicity to Japanese kimonos. schumacher.com.

7. ZAK + FOX

Add a bit of mystery to your home with Zak + Fox’s new wallpaper, Creatures of the Night. Layers of color provide depth to the foliage camouflaging the intriquing eyes of its namesake. zakandfox.com.

8. THIBAUT

Hailing from the Kismet collection, Thibaut’s whimsical Elephant wallpaper appeals to young and old. Shown here in green five other colors are also offered. thibautdesign.com.

Buzzworthy

ELEVATING EVERYDAY VROOM, VROOM

With a background in both design and retail, Jennie Maneri took the leap to open her own store in Deep River. The former creative director and art director of Herman Miller has assembled a modern general store, Deep River Home, located in a converted barn near the Deep River town center. Curating her favorite objects, brands and tools for the home, the store reflects her design ethos and philosophy of creating a more artful way of living and elevating the everyday. Items from local and global sources include brooms handmade in Kentucky, baskets woven in Maine, pillows from Sweden and Japanese Hasami porcelain. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 Union St., Deep River, 917-570-0842, deepriverhome.com.

Entertain in Style

Italian textile brand Lisa Corti celebrates its 60th anniversary with a range of digital invitations for Paperless Post. Lending its maximalist style of handblocked fabrics, the 12 artisan designs include a mix of graphic stripes, florals and prints in sophisticated shades of bright citron, ochre and blues reminiscent of the Mediterranean. “This collection resurfaces archival designs and debuts new designs—all with vibrant colors and a unique take on patterns—that’s our signature,” says Ida Corti, CEO and artistic director of Lisa Corti. paperlesspost.com.

Start your engines! Backdrop and Porsche have teamed up on a limited-edition paint collection to mark the sports car brand’s 75th anniversary. The newly released colors for home décor will be available through the end of the year and include four vibrant shades: Irish Green, Riviera Blue, Speed Yellow and Ruby Star. “Everything we do at Backdrop centers around our love of color,” says Natalie Ebel, Backdrop’s cofounder and creative director. “Naturally, we jumped at the chance to work with an iconic brand like Porsche, which has always been synonymous with its bold, statement-making color palette. I am incredibly excited to translate our shared love of design and spirit of selfexpression into a collection that will take on new life in our homes and on our walls.” $75 per gallon, backdrophome.com.

CHEERS!

Lee Jofa is celebrating 200 years of style with a signature collection of artisanal, hand-blocked print fabrics in fresh colorways, including longstanding favorites like the Hollyhock and Tree of Life, and, for the first time, these patterns will be offered with companion wallcoverings. New furniture in traditional styling and rugs inspired by the brand’s iconic wovens, velvets and textures are also being rolled out for this 200th anniversary bash. Traditional but trendsetting, the collection represents Lee Jofa’s storied past and its new vision for the future. kravet.com. —Mary

Fitzgerald

1. 672 Lake Avenue, Greenwich $5,150,000 WEB#118967

Bryan Tunney 203.570.6577

2. 45 Sidecut Road, Redding $3,475,000 WEB#170573899

Jill Sloane 917.509.7205

3. 282 Main Street, New Canaan $4,195,000 WEB#170563588

Diana Demirjian 203.243.7447

4. 97 Graenest Ridge Road, Wilton $2,699,000 WEB#170595127

Lisa Graham-Wanzell 917-892-1700

5. 22 White Oak Lane, Weston $1,999,000 WEB#170595692

Karen Magee 203-952-1720

6. 143 Park Street, New Canaan $2,595,000 WEB#170591724

Lianna Tomas Fetko 203.216.0709

7. 24 Calhoun Drive, Greenwich $4,995,000 WEB#118793

Rob Johnson 203.979.2360

8. 75 Parish Road, New Canaan $3,925,000 WEB#170573578

Stephanie Hanford 917.499.5402

9. 6 Stony Brook Road, Darien $1,825,000 WEB# 170591361

Thaddea Sheridan 203.273.9390

10. 379 Cascade Road, Stamford $850,000 WEB#170561992

Geraldine Nusbaum 203.219.1528

Gary Komarin

THE SCENES WITH THE ABSTRACT ARTIST OF THE FAMOUS “CAKE” PAINTINGS

Adrienne Ruger Conzelman, owner of ARC Fine Art, a contemporary art gallery in Fairfield, sits down with artist Gary Komarin to discuss his new monograph and his global exhibits.

You have a new monograph, The Cake (Payton Heller). Why do you think the genre is so appealing to collectors?

Everyone loves cake. Worldwide. The cakes arrived at my studio door quietly one late morning. I had been playing with cylindrical stacked shapes since I was a kid, scribbling on the side of notebooks as many will do. One day, without really thinking about it, I attached several flattened-out paper sacks and painted a stacked cake form. A New York dealer who came to the studio found them on my studio floor. He loved them and in a matter of weeks exhibited them in New York at the Armory Show. We were off to the races.

Some viewers grapple with abstraction. In most of your large-scale, oil paintings, you give the viewer some gestural shapes and forms to hold onto. Are those compositional elements intentional for that purpose or do they play a role in your storytelling?

The shapes that float in my abstract paintings are not pre-planned. They come and go as needed. Most are oblique and the viewers of my work will “read” these shapes differently, as everyone sees life through a different lens. The shapes will travel across the canvas as needed—as desired—until they arrive where they were meant to be. This happens quite magically, as they would seem to be on their own. This is a good thing.

Whether in traditional or more contemporary painting, I am instinctively drawn to landscape. The paintings from your “Suite of Blue Sea” series incorporate such division of space into land, sea and sky. Do you find your audience responding well to this trope?

Yes, the “Suite of Blue Sea” pieces have been most popular. The sea and sand and big sky provide space and

light and air, both in life itself and on the canvas. One can become free at such times on the beach, and when a wave hits you and you tumble about in the blue sea, you lose the sense of up and down, left and right, north and south. We then attach to the larger forces of nature.

While you’re based in Roxbury, it seems that you are always on the move with shows around the globe. Can you tell us about your upcoming exhibitions?

We have many exhibitions worldwide. These include a museum show in China, as well as exhibitions of new and recent paintings in London, New York, Greenwich, Zurich, Beirut, Paris and Houston.

Clearly, you have a very global market. Do you find your foreign collectors different from your American ones?

Quite to the contrary, they are very much the same. They look and wonder about my work. Many have a slight smile on their face. They seem puzzled and pleased at the same

time. They may not speak English and they may dress differently, but the human condition is the human condition, and I am delighted that my work reached an audience on a level that goes beyond the written language. The visual language works on a larger net.

Lastly, any other new exciting projects or developments?

Yes, now that The Cake book is out and about and circulating in many arenas, we are working on the next book about the abstract paintings to be titled, The Pleasure Principle. This book will deal with beauty and our great need for it in life that can be so complicated and devoid of pleasure. Color speaks to all people as does the taste of food, or the feel of one’s feet in the sand or a drop of rain on one’s tongue. Beyond The Pleasure Principle, we have a new series of vessel pieces and cakes that we will show in Paris and Vienna in late 2024. The good thing about being a painter is that the energy feeds more energy, and the work, which is really “play,” goes on and on.

BEHIND

Body Of Work

(clockwise from opposite page) Gary Komarin at work in his Roxbury studio. Komarin’s variations of The Cake—stacked, short and single stacks—and some of his other works including Vessel and The French Wig. His new book published by Payton Heller, paytonheller.co. Studio installation, Komarin Studio, garykomarin.com.

SURFACE ALL-STARS

NEW CHOICES FOR WALLS, FLOORS, COUNTERTOPS AND MORE

PRODUCED BY CATRIONA BRANCA

GOOD AS GOLD

(clockwise from top left) Snowdrift porcelain from CAESARSTONE has a pure white backdrop traversed by delicate veining in golden-brown that floats over its misty, translucent base, in a honed finish. Through Karen Berkemeyer Home, Westport, karenberkemeyerhome.com, caesarstoneus.com. Part of CROSSVILLE’s Native Metal porcelain and resin tile line, Champagne Gold perforated wall accents (shown) add rhythm and dimension to vertical surfaces. Through Connecticut Stone, Milford, connecticutstone.com, crossville. com. Streams of copper gold, fog and translucent greige course through CAMBRIA’s Brittanicca Gold Cool quartz against a crisp, cool background; available in high gloss or matte finish. Through Timeless Stone, Bloomfield, Stamford, timeless-stonect.com, cambriausa.com. Add a touch of glam to any space with the Cheetah Gold Luxe Vitreous Glass mosaic from the Lasting Rugs Collection by ARTAIC, customizable in ¾-, ½- and 1-inch tile sizes. artaic.com. New to COSENTINO’s Silestone portfolio, the Le Chic Collection features six designs, including Versailles Ivory with warm gold veining and subtle two-toned marbling in the background. Through Ring’s End, Darien, ringsend.com, cosentino.com.

GREAT GRAPHICS

(clockwise from top left) In Asha by Lisa Hunt’s debut collection for ANN SACKS, the artist designed a series of field tiles inspired by her screenprints and collages; in six shades (White Shimmer shown) and five patterns (Love shown). Through Kohler Signature Store by Plimpton & Hills, Greenwich, kohler.com. Designed by Piero Lissoni for SALVATORI, Patchwork is composed of repurposed offcuts creating a patchwork of textures that plays with different patterns and three-dimensionality. Through West Out East, Westport, westouteast.com, salvatoriofficial.com. Part of Erin Adams’ Escala Collection of marble mosaics for COUNTRY FLOORS, the elongated ovals pattern incorporates an extended diamond shape between each larger oval in an intricate balance of soft with angular. NYC, countryfloors.com. Tetri—part of LIVDEN’s Metro Collection—combines geometric shapes with soft, texturized shading on timeless Polar Ice Terrazzo. Available in three colorways: Equinox, Ombre (shown) and Quill. livden.com. ARTISTIC TILE’s Sfera by Alison Rose is designed with randomly placed circular stones. Available in three colorways: Verde (shown) combines Verde Aurora, a green polished quartzite with polished and honed Nero Marble. White Plains, NY, artistictile.com.

BLUES & GREENS

Distinct

an ombre effect define Fade, a new ANN

field-tile collection by Kelly

Handmade by artisans in Oregon, and available in six glaze gradients (Indigo shown). Through Kohler Signature Store, Westport,

ANTOLINI’s Exclusive Collection includes Amazonite, a stone with nuances ranging from turquoise to emerald green. Elegant yet sturdy, the quartzite is suitable for any setting, from kitchen countertops to bathrooms. antolini.com. Coming this fall from NEMO TILE + STONE is Maxime, a 3-by-10-inch glazed ceramic tile offered in six colors, shown in emerald green; available in glossy or matte finish. nemotile.com. Canna, a handcut and waterjet stone mosaic—shown in honed Sweetgrass and polished Fern—is designed by Connecticut artist Jessica Battista and part of NEW RAVENNA’s Pinnacle collection. Through Greenwich Tile & Marble, Greenwich, greenwichtileandmarble.com, newravenna.com. Large-format Blue Roma sintered stone from XTONE (part of the Porcelanosa Group) intertwines coppery veins with a distinctive and elegant grayish-blue canvas. Available in two finishes: silk and polished. Riverside, porcelanosa.com, xtone-surface.com.

(clockwise from top left)

glazes with

SACKS

Wearstler.

kohler.com.

MOSAIC MASTERS

(clockwise from top left) Inspired by Mother Nature, Botanicus by Allison Eden is a new art-glass collection with AKDO in three patterns: Bloom, Leaf and Reef (shown in Blue Grotto colorway). Bridgeport, akdo.com. Stone mosaic Penny Rounds from ISLAND STONE feature timeless ¾-inch tiles in the traditional offset pattern, while the nature of the stone adds a unique aesthetic. Offered in three honed stones (Tempest shown). Through Tile America, Stamford, islandstone.com, tileamerica.com. Collezione Vincent Darré is a series of four decorations—Caryatides (shown), Calliope, Erato and Thalia—in glass mosaic from BISAZZA in a collaboration with French artist and designer Vincent Darré. bisazza.com. Memphis Raku—a hand-cut glass mosaic shown in Sea Glass Absolute White with jewel glass Sardonyx, Ruby, Lapis Lazuli, Chrysocolla, Cat’s Eye and Morganite—is part of the Heritage Collection by NEW RAVENNA Through Bender, Norwalk, benderplumbing.com, newravenna.com. ARTISTIC TILE’s Adena reimagines Lori Weitzner’s luxurious Adelaide embroidery pattern in micro-mosaic stone. Available in three colorways, shown in blue. Through Nukitchens, Norwalk, nukitchens.com, artistictile.com.

DEEDS DON’TS

BIG DEALS

While the national housing market has cooled, our state continues to post impressive sales. To be clear, there are fewer actual transactions—reduced inventory remains a challenge—but some big-ticket closings are keeping cash registers full. In August, a Greenwich property broke the record for the most expensive residential sale in Connecticut’s history, at $138,830,000. Called Copper Beech Farm, it’s the city’s largest waterfront property, at 50 acres. Also in Greenwich, a 54-acre parcel of undeveloped land owned by the Rockefeller family sold for $21.5 million. And Susie Hilfiger (ex-wife of designer Tommy) finally closed on Denbigh Farm, selling it for $15 million. Still hoping to land a big-deal dwelling of your own? With the fall selling season underway, a new crop of high-end

properties has emerged, many of them—in keeping with the theme of this issue—attached to bold-faced design-world names.

GRAND IN GREENWICH

Yes, that Rockefeller spread has sold. But Greenwich offers ample chances to snap up prestigious properties, including a $58 million Georgian Colonial within the guard-gated Mead Point Association. The waterfront estate started life in 1928 but was rebuilt—and expanded—in 2014 by architect Cormac Byrne and builder Significant Homes, and was featured in CTC&G in 2016. The home opens with the much-coveted, front-to-back

Private, First Class In Greenwich, $57,995,000 buys a first-class waterfront estate. It lists with Leslie McElwreath of Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenwich. 917-539-3654.

foyer, which offers views to the water and access to an expansive terrace that spans the width of the house, with steps to the pool, dock and private beach. The double-height living room is another showstopper, with its barrel ceiling, fireplace and mezzanine balcony. And if you’re at all inclined to entertain, the Christopher Peacock kitchen is the place to do it, a space that flows to a butler’s pantry and formal dining room, as well as an outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill and pizza oven. The exact price is $57,995,000, listed with Leslie McElwreath of Sotheby’s International Realty.

Another big-ticket Greenwich listing, an equestrian estate, is on the market for $35 million. The state-of-the-art stables are the star of this 16-acre show,

built with amenities such as a dressage arena with a viewing area, stabling for 12 horses, paddocks and—new to this column—a manure management system. Another, truly singular offering: an enclosure that houses the owner’s ostentation of peacocks (also new to this column, and that’s what you call a group of these showy birds). This being harvest season, the vineyard—planted with merlot and cabernet grapes—is also a draw, as is the property’s orchard, featuring apple, pear and cherry trees. And the estate’s main house is not to be overlooked, fully renovated in 2023 by award-winning architect Rich Granoff. Amid its 10,800-square-foot interiors, the kitchen is a standout, with its stone walls, custom-designed La Cornue stoves, double islands, gas-fired fireplace and large folding glass wall that opens onto outdoor lounging and dining spaces. We also love the capacious library, with its own fireplace, and the billiards room with an adjoining bar. It lists with Danielle Claroni and Christian Perry of Sotheby’s International Realty.

WORTH THE WAIT

Bankside House in Westport—a collection of 12 two-and-three-bedroom units—is finally opening its doors. Designed by acclaimed architecture firm Roger Ferris + Partners, the handsome, four-story building enjoys sweeping views over Saugatuck River and the historic buildings of downtown Westport. And while five—at press time—units have sold, a posh penthouse is still available, offering 2,437 square-foot interiors, a 134-squarefoot balcony, and a 624-square-foot roof terrace. It lists for $3,999,000. For more information, go to banksidehouse.com or call listing agent Kim Harizman of Compass in Westport. 917-270-5168.

Harvest Home This 16-acre Greenwich estate offers vineyards and orchards, as well as state-ofthe-art stables. It lists for $35 million with Danielle Claroni and Christian Perry of Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenwich. 203-570-8110 and 818-321-0539.

Pretty, Perfect This New Canaan home lists for $4,295,000 with Leslie Razook and Aileen Mastey of William Pitt Sotheby’s Internal Realty in New Canaan. 203- 918-4452 and 203-273-4889.

NEW IN NEW CANAAN

It’s rare to find a house that ticks every box on the list of amenities nearly every buyer wants. Front-to-back foyer designed so that the entrance hall has sightlines to the views out back? Check. Great room with a fireplace? Check. Open plan kitchen-dining-family spaces? Check. Primary suite with some combination of fireplace, balcony, walk-in closets and spa-like baths? Check. But in New Canaan, a stately white-clapboard home has them all, as well as an office and a lower-level “fun zone” with a gym, media room and more. Designed by architect Robert Storm, the circa-2016 home lists for $4,295,000 with Leslie Razook and Aileen Mastey of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.

UNIQUE IN RIDGEFIELD

The bucolic town of Ridgefield is mostly known for its traditional estates, many of them antique Colonials with picket fences and American flags. So, an angular, strikingly modern Rafael Viñoly home presents a bracing contrast. And while it’s been on and off the market for years, the current listing, at $7.5 million, also includes a property called High Meadow

Farm, featuring a farmhouse on a separate 7.46 acres. The Uruguayan-born architect, who died last spring, has built airports in Dubai and Italy, stadiums in Tokyo and Argentina, and apartment buildings all over the world. What the high-profile firm is not known for is single-family homes—so the Ridgefield residence, built in 1990 for the widow of a Manhattan real estate developer, is an outlier in that regard as well. The steel-glass-and-concrete structure was designed to showcase the original owner’s art collection—and offers just two bedrooms. Sleeping quarters aside, the amenities are extraordinary, including a 58-foot-long indoor pool and a 60-foot-long outdoor pool, a 360-degree observation deck, and an atrium with soaring ceilings. It’s offered by Karla Murtaugh of Compass.—Diane di Costanzo

All Angles Perched on one of Ridgefield’s highest sites, this angular contemporary, designed by architect Rafael Viñoly, is offered for $7.5 million by Karla Murtaugh of Compass in Ridgefield. 203-856-5534.

OCTOBER

CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS

A Designer’s

TOUCH

UPDATING A CLASSIC COLONIAL INTO A RICH OASIS OF CALM

BY ALEXA STEVENSON | PHOTOGRAPHS BY JACOB SNAVELY STYLED BY FRANCES BAILEY

Monochrome Magic (this page) In the family room, the original millwork was painted with a custom hue in a high gloss. The coffee table is custom, and the overhead fixture is Kelly Wearstler for Visual Comfort. The wool carpet is though A.T. Proudian. Artistic Moment (opposite page) In the daughter’s room, a Bunny Williams Home Brush Stroke lamp tops a chest. See Resources

How do you manage to make a Greenwich Colonial feel updated and classic without it looking like every other house on the street? The answer, according to interior designer Jamie Garcia, is as simple as listening to your client. Garcia, a designer based in Greenwich and Newport, RI, met the client through a referral and they immediately hit it off. “Jamie was so easy and pleasant to work with. She really listens and she doesn’t try to push things,” says the client. “I have worked with others who are aggressive, and their way is the only way, but Jamie works with what you really want—she took my vision and ran with it. I wanted a less heavy feel—classic and transitional, but I wanted it to feel light.”

Stepping inside the house, an open grand foyer has a partially winding staircase and a view straight through to the outdoor terrace. “Everything was pretty neutral,” says Garcia. “We left the foyer as is, but the family room did not feel like her [the client]. She wanted a cleaner, sleeker look, but not modern. I kept asking her, ‘what color do you love to wear?’” They landed on camel and Garcia got started.

Faux Real Designer Jamie Garcia (below) had the millwork in the library (right and opposite page) painted a custom green faux wood by Stephen D’louhy of Floe Painting. The custom sofa wears a Schumacher velvet. The Ginkgo Embroidery window treatments are also Schumacher, and the round side table is through Serena & Lily. The armchair is vintage through JHuhn Lifestyle, and the Adele side table is through Bunny Williams Home. See Resources

Spice It Up

WE WANTED TO KEEP THE ORIGINAL STYLE OF THE HOME AND NOT HIDE THE WOOD PANELING

The family room had original millwork and cabinetry in impeccable condition, but slightly yellowed and aged. Garcia opted to keep the bones but make them look more alive. “We chose a luxurious shade of camel—our common thread throughout—created a custom color and painted the millwork in a high gloss. Then, we searched for a grasscloth to blend and create a monochromatic look, keeping the room looking chic but approachable” says Garcia. “She wanted something calming and nothing floral—she had committed to a lot of floral before.” Sheers on the window filter light without taking away from the lush outdoor views. Accented with a custom parchment table, Ralph Lauren pillows and a Kelly Wearstler fixture, the room is neutral but still makes a statement. “She [Garcia] led me toward things that I wasn’t using before, like high gloss paint and grasscloth. It’s monotone but serene and cozy,” says the client. “Everyone who walks in the room says it is an oasis.”

Next Garcia tackled the library that wore a trademarked look: wood paneling, a heavy brown desk and worn English armchairs covered in—you guessed it—a floral. Once again, the designer started with the color, this time green because of the outside views. Garcia had decorative painter Stephen D’louhy apply a faux grain on the wood. “We wanted to keep the original style of the home and not hide the wood paneling. The green is almost neutral, and the ceiling is the slightest hint of blue,” says Garcia. “We also used a lot of velvet. The client spends a lot of time in here in the winter, and I wanted it

Quadrille’s New Batik covers the headboard in the daughter’s room (above right and opposite page), where the bedside tables are custom with Addison Weeks hardware, and artwork by Matt Story adds a pop of color. In the bathroom (above), Garcia designed a stencil to riff off the headboard material. It was applied by Stephen D’louhy. See Resources

to feel cozy, but not heavy.” Garcia stayed true to the clients’ color palette with sage greens, neutrals and browns, but added spice as accents color. Behind the bookcase, she used Schumacher’s classic Feather Bloom sisal wallcovering. “It tied all the colors together and created more depth,” she says. Adds the client, “The library felt staid and hard and cold. Now, it’s been completely transformed into a room that’s fun, but peaceful.”

Upstairs, Garcia did more of the same, turning the children’s (now grown) bedrooms into more modern versions of their former traditional lives. Covering the walls with grasscloth and popping the rooms with sophisticated accents and colors. “The client and I worked so well together. We brought a beauty and freshness that had been missing to each room. We made each room bloom, and it really feels like her now.” ✹

Blue Hues (left to right across spread) A navy Ralph Lauren grasscloth covers the walls in the son’s room; the material on the windows and headboard is by Serena Dugan. The same textile repeats in the bathroom, where the walls are papered in a rich honey brown grasscloth. The designer’s faux fur coat is custom through JHuhn Lifestyle. See Resources

THE CLIENT AND I WORKED SO WELL TOGETHER. WE BROUGHT A BEAUTY AND FRESHNESS THAT HAD BEEN MISSING TO EACH ROOM

IN PERFECT HARMONY

A three-barn living compound honors its pastoral location

BY MINDY PANTIEL | PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEFFREY GRAY BRANDSTED

urns out human beings have a tendency to gravitate toward trios— musketeers, little pigs and BLTs, for example— and hence the popular expression “good things come in threes.” Architect Ted Porter, who admits to a propensity for triads, pursued that very idea when called upon to expand a property with a single barn used as a residence into adequate space for a family of six. Rather than adding onto the existing

Tstructure, he determined three barns would be better than one. As he explains, “The barn is such a nice compact gabled form, I thought why not make one for all the main living spaces, redo the original into a bedroom barn, and create a third building with a garage and separate guest suite.”

The homeowners, a young couple with four children who planned to use the Litchfield County property as a weekend and summer home, readily embraced the concept while adding their own goals. “We wanted to honor the history and pastoral quality of the surroundings, and establish a connection to the beautiful landscape,” says the homeowner. “It was Ted’s idea to create a breezeway to establish harmony with the environment.”

Full Transparency A pathway of bluestone pavers (top) leads to the white brick steps and the breezeway that serves as entryway and connector to the three structures. A Barn Light Electric gooseneck light (opposite page) complements the Accoya siding. See Resources

What Porter refers to as “the sleek, slick glass connective piece,” is in fact the kingpin that ties the three barns with matching black Accoya siding and anodized standing seam metal roofs together. “The original barn had shingles, but we put Accoya everywhere,” he says about the wood product that has been charred and altered to make it highly durable.

“It doesn’t need to be painted or treated over time, and the black is stunning against the lush green summer backdrop, equally beautiful with fall’s reds and oranges, and spectacular during a winter snowfall.” The architect also resurrected

an existing circular driveway, so upon arrival visitors look through the breezeway to the 20-acre property, which further cements the home’s relationship with its surroundings.

The interiors of the original barn, which housed a living room, kitchen, three bedrooms and a tiny stair, provided a jumping off place for the ensuing members of the triad. “We changed the windows but kept the structural timbers that were old and beautiful,” says Porter, who reconfigured what became the bedroom barn into a primary suite and home office on the lower level and two children’s bedrooms with

The black is stunning against the lush green summer backdrop, equally beautiful with fall’s reds and oranges

Clean Lines Intentionally unfussy, the sitting area (opposite page) in the living room includes a RH sofa and a contemporary wingback by Cisco Home next to the Stûv fireplace, while a pair of RH armchairs are positioned for enjoying the view. Architect Ted Porter opted to replicate an existing barn form to create three buildings (top) each with a designated function. The Accoya siding is from reSawn Timber Co. See Resources

ensuite baths upstairs. A new stair composed of solid white oak treads and black painted steel spindles was situated on the north wall to capture natural light from the windows. “Moving the stair from the center of the barn freed-up space to make all the bedrooms bigger,” he adds.

Triple-glazed, divided-light windows clad in anodized metal and new structural beams and woodwork continue the Shaker style in the main barn, where the living room, dining room and kitchen reside. “The interior architecture is minimal but with some articulation like the woodwork and lots of big white surfaces for art,” says Porter, noting the window style is an intentional nod to the New England vernacular.

Materials Palette The new staircase (opposite page)—constructed of two-inch-thick solid white oak treads set on painted white risers and black-painted steel spindles—is in keeping with the home’s neutral color scheme. Natural oak cabinets (top), a black stone countertop and light fixtures by Marset continue the natural oak, black-and-white theme in the kitchen. See Resources

The kitchen was a chance to bring in more wood and reference the outdoors

Finishes like the plaster fireplace wall, locally milled white oak floors, and custom oak kitchen cabinets complement the unpretentious spaces. “The kitchen was a chance to bring in more wood and reference the outdoors, while the black faucets and painted metal light fixture in the adjoining dining room provide a striking contrast to the white walls and the scenery visible through the windows,” Porter says.

Meanwhile the homeowner, who stepped in to do the furnishings, opted for neutral upholstered pieces in the living room, and curved white wood chairs surrounding a wood table in the dining area. “This is a family environment, so I wanted to bring in warmth,” she explains. “There is such a simplicity of form in the architecture and real magic in the landscape. The furnishings and finishes were all about complementing both those elements.” ✹

Nighty Night Matching beds from Matrix (opposite page) define the sleeping quarters for the homeowners’ two boys; the ceiling fan is from the Minka Group. In the primary suite (top), existing beam work frames the bed and side tables from Williams Sonoma. For the boys’ ensuite bathroom (right), the homeowner chose LiLi encaustic cement tile in Twinkle pattern. See Resources

Vibes West Coast

Richly

BY ANN LOYND BURTON | PHOTOGRAPHS BY READ MCKENDREE

Susana Simonpietri, creative director of Brooklyn-based design studio Chango & Co., has a reputation for creating spaces with coastal, laid-back flair—so much so that many of her West Coast clients joke that she is more California than designers in the Golden State. It’s no surprise, then, that a young family relocating from California to Connecticut sought her out to lighten up their quintessential Old Greenwich home.

“We were dealing with existing construction that had lots of heavy moldings,” Simonpietri explains. “We needed to create a design that could stand up to the carpentry, so that it wasn’t the biggest impact in the room.”

To bring the molding down a notch, the designer enlisted lots of wallpaper, painting the trims in a complementing hue, or in some cases, painting the trim and walls in one shade. “It helps make the room feel more immersive,” she adds. “We wanted to minimize the

Green Machine (clockwise across spread from above) A vintage ABC Carpet & Home rug anchors the Homenature dining table and Pottery Barn chairs in the dining room, while a Materia chandelier makes a statement overhead. The living room wears a complementary sage grasscloth from Thibaut, and the Baker sofa is upholstered in a creamy Holland & Sherry wool. An Anthropologie coffee table, Munna side chair and Lumfardo chandelier finish the space. See Resources

We needed to create a design that could stand up to the carpentry, so that it wasn’t the biggest impact in the room

trims and heaviness of it all and make the rooms feel like a cozy blanket giving you a hug.”

The anchor of the home began in a surprising place: the dining room. For a couple that loves to entertain, they wanted a welcoming space where they could spend an evening, without needing to relocate after clearing the plates. “Think of a private dining room in an upscale hotel restaurant,” she notes. “The dining room is a green experience with bold, saturated paint.” Even the ceilings are painted (a signature Chango & Co. tactic). “I always try to push ceilings to help you really feel enveloped by a room,” Simonpietri says. “When you have a dark color on the wall and the ceiling is white, it feels heavier, like the ceiling is coming down on you.”

Complementary color stories spring from the dining room (visible from the entry), leading into the living room and office, which bring in notes of salmon, then a touch of blue in the kitchen. The only wood element was the floors, so the designer opted for wood, wicker and rattan furniture, along with rugs in natural textures. “We didn’t want everything smooth and lacquered,” she recalls. “Natural materials break up the monotone aspect of the paint.”

Though the aesthetic exudes West Coast, Simonpietri insists the style has East Coast roots. “Generally, rattan and wicker mix very well with a high-end environment,” she explains. “Even in a Connecticut

Coastal Casual (clockwise across spread from top left) A girl’s bedroom is finished in a custom Caitlin McGauley wallpaper and Elizabeth Eakins bedspread for a play of pattern. In the wife’s office, Simonpietri enlisted Zak+Fox wallpaper, a soft Beam rug and a France & Son daybed. In the entryway, L’aviva Home ceramic pendant lights through 1stDibs hang at an array of heights for a dynamic installation. The breakfast nook features Carl Hansen & Søn chairs, a Sun at Six table and a Nickey Kehoe pendant light. See Resources

home, there’s always a moment for that. In the ’70s and ’80s people were doing it all the time—remember the trellised sunroom.”

Simonpietri adapted that light and airy mood to each of the family member’s needs. Both husband and wife work from home and need a private office. His, off the living room, is mostly neutral, drawing upon the notes of green from the adjacent space and landing on the greenery outdoors. Hers wears a dusty rose color scheme for feminine flair. “Here, we started with the wallpaper and worked backward from there,” the designer notes.

Two young children each have their own room as well. The boy’s room is awash in a sophisticated blue, while the girl’s space is a pattern play of pinks. And there’s an additional breakfast nook in the eat-in kitchen that is built with family in mind. “There’s no rug underneath the table, and wishbone chairs are great for kids, since you can easily wipe and vacuum them,” the designer says.

A guest room is also intended to grow with the family. An ivy wall mural creates a peaceful respite for visitors, but can also serve as a nursery if the need arises down the line.

Simonpietri finished the space by commissioning artwork and custom lighting elements. The contemporary chandelier in the dining room and ceramic pendants, for example, were personalized for the space. “When I’m doing something more transitional, I go heavy on the ceiling lights,” she says, adding, “We wanted the home to feel layered—moody, but also relaxed.” ✹

Serene Scene (clockwise across spread from far left) A Sandberg Wallpaper mural sets the scene in the guest room, while a Lulu and Georgia table lamp tops a Burke Decor nightstand. St. Frank wallpaper and Workstead sconces instantly elevate the powder room. A Herman Miller chair, custom desk and Workstead chandelier complete the husband’s office. See Resources

We wanted to minimize the trims and heaviness of it all and make the rooms feel like a cozy blanket giving you a hug

GEORGIAN

BY DAVID MASELLO | PHOTOGRAPHS BY KIRSTEN FRANCIS

Living Well

(this page, top to bottom) In the living room, a Lawson-Fenning sofa is upholstered with a Kerry Joyce velvet, while chairs from 1stDibs wear a fabric from Holly Hunt, and the John Opper artwork is through Berry Campbell. The mirror above the fireplace is from RT Facts. See Resources

Room To Relax

(opposite page) In addition to abundant natural light, the reconfigured family room is illuminated by a leatherand-brass chandelier from Ralph Lauren. An Avery Boardman custom sectional is finished in a Pindler fabric. See Resources

Friends doing business together is often a situation to avoid. But when

Ashley Darryl was commissioned by her longtime friend, and now client, to design all the rooms of a spacious 1936 Greenwich house, every element related together perfectly and their friendship endured, if not strengthened. “My friend, my client, really let me take the reins with this,” says Darryl. “It’s the kind of relationship and project a designer dreams of. She recognizes my taste, which is the same as hers.”

She and the client both hail from Texas, and there is something about that state and its culture that translates for its natives anywhere they go. “We both wanted and envisioned the interiors to be like something you’d see in a great Texas home, but also be upscale and comfortable in a way that you’d only see in a home on the East Coast,” describes Darryl, who established her namesake New York–based firm in 2014. One of her first projects as a nascent interior designer, in fact, was to furnish the then-rental Manhattan apartment that this client had occupied with her husband (the couple has since had two young children).

It’s a story with which we are all now familiar—a couple that flees New York for elsewhere during Covid. In this case, the client moved with her husband and children to her native Houston for a spell, before returning to a rental house in Old Greenwich and, eventually, the purchase of this five-bedroom Georgian-style

home in one of the town’s leafiest neighborhoods. Upon moving in here, the client told Darryl to start all afresh. Indeed, so many people, upon re-emerging post Covid, also reimagined how they would live anew.

Prior to Darryl’s work finding furnishings, accessories, lighting fixtures and paint colors for the home, the clients commissioned New Canaan architects Louise Brooks and Christopher Moran, of Brooks & Falotico, to repair aesthetic damage that had been done to the house earlier. “We were brought in to renovate an entire wing that had been renovated 15 years ago,” says Brooks, “essentially to correct all the ills.” Among the most dramatic change she and Moran made was to perform what Brooks calls, “a strong gut renovation as opposed to a total gut.” An awkwardly placed staircase and support column in the family room was removed and replaced, while decorative paneling was added, and a mudroom and butler’s pantry was created. “We even made the family room smaller,” explains Moran, “as a way to make it warmer and to bring down its volume. By reducing its size, we were able to dramatically expand the kitchen, where the family spends much of its time.”

Darryl, meanwhile, was delving into paint charts. “I’m going to admit that I tried something like 100 paint colors in the family room until I found a hue that would work in the bright light that fills the space,” notes Darryl. She refers to the gray/beige/greenish color she and the client settled on as “greege.” Recognizing that the wife loves all things green and her husband blue, Darryl accommodated the request by infusing various rooms with those shades. A deep blue casts the butler’s pantry in an inviting mood, where guests of the couple are encouraged

Easy Dining

In the kitchen (left), an Urban Electric lighting fixture hangs above the RH breakfast table, while Ann Morris pendants illuminate the island and rattan-andsteel bar stools from Blend Interiors. A vintage Murano glass lighting fixture from 1stDibs and brass hardware from Waterworks imbue the butler’s pantry/ bar (top) with a sense of glamour. See Resources

to mix their own drinks at the frequent gatherings they host, while deep greens appear throughout the primary bedroom.

But Darryl had a different strategy for the all-season sunroom, defined by a graciously arcing bay window. “I discussed with the client the idea of using a chocolate paint on the walls, white for the trim, and a light blue on the ceiling as a way to soften the light that comes in and helps creates the idea of still being outside when, in fact, you’re not.”

For the “big reveal,” Darryl filmed with her phone her client/friend coming into the almost-finished interiors. Most of the words uttered by the client are “Wow” and unspellable gasps of delight. “I told her that I think this is my best work yet,” says Darryl. “I feel like this really shows my taste and my sense of design because the client allowed me to choose and to create this beautiful dream house.” ✹

We envisioned the interiors to be like something you’d see in a great Texas home, but also upscale and comfortable in a way that you’d see in a home on the East Coast

Chic Touches (clockwise across spread from top) Phillip Jeffries’ Fuji Weave wallcovering is used in the primary bedroom; bed linens are from Matouk. In a guest bedroom, a Ralph Lauren lamp through Circa Lighting tops a nightstand from Made Goods. The mudroom’s cushions are fitted with a durable fabric from Schumacher. A Ralph Lauren chandelier, a pair of table lamps from Mecox Gardens and Visual Comfort sconces keep the sunroom aglow in the evening, while a Homenature sofa offers seating alongside a David DeSantis coffee table. See Resources

A Global Blend

In every field there are mavericks determined to reinvent the wheel, trailblazers willing to ask questions no one else will. In 2012, South African winemaker Travis Braithwaite gave himself a new challenge. What might happen, he wondered, if he tried blending the best grapes in the world into a single global cuvée? This preposterous spark of an idea led Braithwaite on an around the world odyssey. And now he’s bottled the result, combining five grape varieties from four different continents, into a remarkable new wine—the first global collectible red.

The whole notion goes against everything that’s sacred in the wine world these days, the obsession with locality, terroir, expressing a real sense of place, with the best winemakers hunting for ever smaller vineyard sites. Wouldn’t mixing grapes from different countries strip out all personality and its distinctive terroir? Braithwaite thought otherwise, pursuing a unicorn creation—a Bordeaux blend that would highlight, he says, the terroir of planet Earth.

To begin his wine project, he traveled halfway around the world, from his home outside Cape Town to Argentina, where he hoped to convince

(above left to right

the world’s most celebrated wine blender to join his endeavor, meeting with Frenchman Michel Rolland at his wine estate in the Mendoza region. Rolland has orchestrated blends in 23 countries over the past 50 years. “It took me days to muster the courage to bring up my idea,” Braithwaite admits. “Finally on the fourth day, Michel asked me why I had come to see him. And once he heard ‘world blend,’ he took it on as the ultimate challenge.”

Rolland was captivated by the idea. “I am a serious guy, but I am the craziest blender in the world,” he says. “Blending two varieties is easier, three is complicated, four or five is a nightmare, to find the best synergy between grapes. You don’t know the result. It could be a disaster.”

The pair set out on a yearlong investigation choosing the wine regions where various varieties thrived best: focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, Merlot from Bordeaux, Petit Verdot from Spain, Cabernet Franc from South Africa, and Malbec from Argentina. Rolland decided to do the final blend and bottling in Napa, where he spends every September consulting with wine estate clients. Wines from the various countries were shipped to him there, as he tasted through everything to create the Pangaea blend. The first vintage, 2015, with 2,250 bottles, was released globally last year. Priced at $500 on release, it became an instant collectible, with prices quickly soaring online. “Pangaea is meant for collectors,” says Rolland. “A collector is always looking for what’s the latest wine to show his friends and drink out of curiosity.”

The second vintage—in a 2,700 bottle edition—was showcased this summer with much fanfare at Vinexpo Asia in Singapore. The first bottles were released this fall. The standard purchase unit is three bottles in a wooden case for $1,500. The garnet-hued Pangaea 2016 has aromas of rose, vanilla and spice with an intense slate minerality. This powerful yet harmonious wine, with its fine tannins and flavors of strawberries, black cherries and plums, is in fact a remarkable testament to the terroir of planet Earth.

— Baroness Sheri de Borchgrave

Earthly Delights

) Frenchman Michel Rolland and South African winemaker Travis Braithwaite use a blend of wines, including Cabernet Franc from South Africa vineyards (top), to create their Pangaea wine. pangaeaestates.com.

THIS BLEND OF WORLDWIDE WINES IS A TESTAMENT TO THE TERROIR OF PLANET EARTH

MEET SOME OF THE MOST TALENTED AND SUCCESSFUL ARCHITECTS IN THE AREA, EXPERTS WHO UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF A WELL-DESIGNED HOME.

FEATURING

CARDELLO ARCHITECTS

CHRISTOPHER PAGLIARO ARCHITECTS

DANIEL CONLON ARCHITECTS

NEIL HAUCK ARCHITECTS

SHOPE RENO WHARTON ARCHITECTURE

WEST CHIN ARCHITECTS & INTERIOR DESIGNERS

CARDELLO ARCHITECTS

The century-old boathouse's transformation into an integrated structure blends timeless aesthetics with modern design. An expansive glass bridge unites these two spaces into one architectural entity, offering a poetic passage to soak in the landscape's vistas. The barn, adorned in stone, pays homage to Saugatuck River's coastal architecture, converging with the boathouse boasting "Shou Sugi Ban" charred wood. This bilingual architectural narrative beautifully merges with nature, offering a tranquil riverfront sanctuary for family gatherings.

203.853.2524

CARDELLOARCHITECTS.COM

@CARDELLOARCHITECTS

CHRISTOPHER PAGLIARO ARCHITECTS

Christopher Pagliaro Architects has a reputation as creator of exceptional architecture throughout North America, the firm’s guiding principle of architecture is that all homes should enhance, as well as reflect the complete context within the environment. The firm brings the idea of “total work of art” to each project. They understand every project has a unique set of challenges and address each one with an open mind.

203.838.5517

CHRISTOPHERPAGLIAROARCHITECTS.COM

@C.PAGLIARO.ARCHITECTS

DANIEL CONLON ARCHITECTS

Daniel Conlon Architects creates extraordinary homes inspired by their surroundings and tailored to the lifestyle of the client. Known for thoughtful space planning and attention to detail, their team combines imagination and practical know-how to provide exceptional results and an enjoyable client experience. Whether a modest renovation or a substantial new home, Dan Conlon personally oversees every project from concept to completion.

203.544.7988

DCONLONARCHITECTS.COM

@DANIELCONLONARCHITECTS

NEIL HAUCK ARCHITECTS

Neil Hauck Architects is an award-winning design firm with a distinguished portfolio of work including new homes, home renovations, civic, religious, and commercial projects. They take a holistic approach to the design process where each project evolves as an individual response to their clients’ intentions, as well as the particulars of the site and surrounding context. They strive to create designs that address their clients’ needs, function well, blend seamlessly into the natural and built environments, and create a unique sense of place.

203.655.9340

NEILHAUCKARCHITECTS.COM

@NEIL_HAUCK_ARCHITECTS

SHOPE RENO WHARTON ARCHITECTURE

SRW opened its doors in 1981. Through hard work, determination and a love of their craft, their work has grown to include a portfolio of homes, equestrian centers and golf clubhouses. They work passionately to create buildings that are beautifully built, practical and inspiring to all those that use them. Their work consists of identifiable architectural qualities such as proportion, scale, texture, color and light which ultimately become the building blocks of beauty.

203.852.7250

SHOPERENOWHARTON.COM

@SHOPERENOWHARTON

WEST CHIN ARCHITECTS & INTERIOR DESIGNERS

WCA is a full-service, high-end architecture, interior design, and decorating firm with locations in Westport, Connecticut, New York City, East Hampton, and Miami.

Architect West Chin, the principal behind WCA, is known for his warm, modern residential and commercial design. The WCA team is also the creative force behind the curation of home décor showrooms, West | Out East, which specialize in furniture, closets, storage systems, kitchen, bath, lighting, rugs and accessories.

203.557.8487

WCARCHITECT.COM

@WCA_DESIGN

Nantucket by Design

CTC&G celebrated a weekend of design in Nantucket

Antiques Show Breakfast

Guests previewed new collections at Eleish Van Breems Home during

1. Beth Dempsey of Images & Details, C&G Account Director Lisa Heissan, Eleish Van Breems’s Edie Van Breems and C&G Account Director Jamie Lewis 2. A picturesque day at Eleish Van Breems Home 3. Sarah Vizard of B. Viz Design and Marty Shapiro of Finnegan Gallery

4. CTC&G Editorial Director DJ Carey and Kaye Gregg of Finnegan Gallery

5. Designers Erin Gates and Marla Mullen 6. Rhonda Eleish of Eleish Van Breems and Kevin Kleinbardt of Yew Tree House Antiques

1. Kelly Williams, Nantucket by Design Co-Chair Stacey Bewkes and Michelle Holland 2. Michael Murphy, Mitch Owens, Ritchie Battle and Nantucket Historical Association Executive Director Niles Parker 3 . Ashley Hicks and Martina Mondadori 4. Mark Donato and Beth English 5 . Nantucket by Design Co-Chair and designer Olivia Charney and designer Michael Mitchell 6. Designer Kathleen Hay poses with her quilt at the Threads of Life quilt exhibition 7. Wambui Ippolito and NHA Director of Corporate Development Stacey Stuart

DESIGN STOPS

MUST-HAVES FOR THE DESIGN-OBSESSED SHOPPER

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

NUKITCHENS

Poggenpohl +STAGE, feels at home in a multitude of configurations. When opened, the pocket doors, which slide gently inside, reveal the richly varied interior fittings. Available at Nukitchens starting at $9,200. 203.831.9000 / nukitchens.com / @nukitchens

Photo by Paul Bickford

RESOURCES MORE

A DESIGNER’S TOUCH

Pages 54–61: Interior design, Jamie Garcia, Jamie Garcia Design for JHuhn, jhuhnlifestyle.com. Faux fur leopard coat, JHuhn. Family room: Light fixture, Visual Comfort. Carpet, A.T. Proudian. Pillows, Ralph Lauren. Window treatment fabric, Kravet. Library: Faux wood painting, Stephen D’louhy of Floe Painting. Sofa and window treatment fabric, Schumacher. Round side table, Serena

& Lily. Armchair, Jamie Garcia Design for JHuhn. Side table, Bunny Williams Home. Wallpaper behind bookcase, Schumacher. Pillows, Clarence House and Hunt Slonem. Leather cocktail table, Jamie Garcia Design for JHuhn.

Daughter’s bedroom: Lamp, Bunny Williams Home. Headboard and bedskirt fabric, Quadrille. Pillows and drapery fabric, Schumacher. Bedside table hardware, Addison Weeks. Bedside lamp, Visual Comfort.

Artwork, Matt Story. Daughter’s bathroom: Stencil painting, Stephen D’louhy. Mirror, RH. S conces, Visual Comfort. Boy’s room: Wallcovering, Ralph Lauren through Kravet. Pillows, Schumacher. Headboard, pillows and roman shade fabric, Serena Dugan. Bedding, Schumacher and Matouk. Bedskirt and t rim, Kravet. Photography, Roberto Dutesco. Lighting, Visual Comfort. Bathroom: Window

treatment fabric, Serena Dugan.

IN PERFECT HARMONY

Pages 62–69: Architect, Ted Porter, Ted Porter Architecture, tedporterarchitecturecom. Exterior: Wood siding, reSawn Timber Co. Windows, Marvin and Cembra. Sconce, Barn Light Electric Co. Living room: Fireplace, Stûv. Table lamp, Hammertown. Sofa and chairs, RH. Wingback chair, Cisco Home.

Items pictured but not listed here are either from private collections or have no additional details. CTC&G relies upon the providing party of the image to give accurate credit information.

from “A Designer’s Touch”

Kitchen: Pendant, Marset. Children’s bedroom: Beds, Matrix. Ceiling fan, Minka Group. En suite bathroom: Tile, LiLi. Primary bedroom: Sofa, Hammertown. Bed and side tables, Williams Sonoma.

WEST COAST VIBES

Pages 70–77: Interior design, Susana Simonpietri, Chango & Co., chango. com. Entry hall: Paint, Benjamin Moore. Table, Arteriors. Dining room: Dining table, Homenature. Chairs, Pottery Barn. Dining chair fabric, Kravet. Chandelier, Materia. Rug, ABC Carpet & Home. Credenza, BD Studio through Burke Décor. Drapery fabric, Holland & Sherry. Paint, Portola Paints. Living room: Wallpaper, Thibaut. Drapery fabric and sofa fabric, Holland & Sherry. Side chair, Munna. Side chair fabric, Mayer Fabrics. Sofa, Baker Furniture. Runner, Mark Nelson Designs. Coffee table, Anthropologie. Chandelier, Lumfardo. Girl’s bedroom: Wallpaper, Caitlin McGauley. Bed fabric, Elizabeth Eakins. Table lamp, Anthropologie. Nightstands, Crate & Barrel. Headboard, Ballard Designs. Drapery fabric, Kravet. Wife’s office: Wallpaper, Zak + Fox. Rug, Beam. Daybed, France & Son. Desk, CB2. Desk chair, Mermelada Estudio.

Pendant, OiSoiSoi. Breakfast nook: Chairs, Carl Hansen & Son. Table, Sun at Six. Pendant light, Nickey Kehoe. Entryway: Pendant lights, L’aviva Home through 1stDibs. Guest room: Wallpaper mural, Sandberg. Table lamp, Lulu and Georgia. Nightstand, Burke Décor. Powder room: Wallpaper, St. Frank. Sconces, Workstead. Husband’s office: Chair, Herman Miller. Chandelier, Workstead.

GORGEOUS GEORGIAN

Pages 78–85: Interior design, Ashley Darryl, Ashley Darryl Interiors, ashleydarryl.com. Architect: Brooks & Falotico, brooksandfalotico.com. Contractor, Gatehouse Partners, gatehousepartners.com. Living room: Sofa, Lawson-Fenning. Sofa fabric, Kerry Joyce. Chairs, 1stDibs. Chair fabric, Holly Hunt. Artwork, John Opper through Berry Campbell. Mirror, RT Facts. Family room: Chandelier, Ralph Lauren. Sectional, Avery Boardman. Sectional fabric, Pindler. Kitchen: Light fixture over table, The Urban Electric Co. Breakfast table, RH. Island pendants, Ann Morris. Bar stools, Blend Interiors. Butler’s pantry/bar: Light fixture, 1stDibs. Hardware, Waterworks. Primary bedroom: Wallcovering, Phillip

Jeffries. Bed linens, Matouk. Guest bedroom: Lamp, Ralph Lauren through Visual Comfort. Nightstand, Made Goods. Mudroom: Cushion fabric, Schumacher. Sunroom: Chandelier, Ralph Lauren. Table lamps, Mecox Gardens. Sconces, Visual Comfort. Sofa, Homenature. Coffee table, David DeSantis.

SOURCE LIST

1stDibs, 1stdibs.com

A.T. Proudian, atproudian.com

ABC Carpet & Home, abchome.com

Addison Weeks, modernmatter.com

Ann Morris, annmorrislighting.com

Anthropologie, anthropologie.com

Arteriors, arteriorshome.com

Avery Boardman, averyboardman.com

Baker Furniture, bakerfurniture.com

Ballard Designs, ballarddesigns.com

Barn Light Electric Company, barnlight.com

BD Studio (see Burke Décor)

Beam, beambk.com

Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com

Berry Campbell, berrycampbell.com

Blend Interiors, blendinteriors.com

Bunny Williams Home, bunnywilliamshome.com

Burke Décor, burkedecor.com

Caitlin McGauley, caitlinmcgauley.com

Carl Hansen & Son, carlhansen.com

CB2, cb2.com

Cembra, cembra.us

Cisco Home, ciscohome.net

Clarence House, clarencehouse.com

Crate & Barrel, crateandbarrel.com

David DeSantis, mbydd.com

Elizabeth Eakins (see Holland & Sherry)

Floe Painting, floepainting.com

France & Son, franceandson.com

Hammertown, hammertown.com

Herman Miller, store.hermanmiller.com

Holland & Sherry, hollandandsherry.com

Holly Hunt, hollyhunt.com

Homenature, homenature.com

Hunt Slonem (see JHuhn)

Jamie Garcia Design (see JHuhn)

JHuhn, jhuhnlifestyle.com

John Opper (see Berry Campbell)

Kerry Joyce (see Holland & Sherry)

Kravet, kravet.com

L’aiva Home, lavivahome.com

Lawson-Fenning, lawsonfenning.com

LiLi, lilitile.com

Lulu and Georgia, luluandgeorgia.com

Lumfardo, lumfardo.com

Made Goods, madegoods.com

Mark Nelson Designs, marknelsondesigns.com

Marset, marset.com

Marvin, marvin.com

Materia, materia.se

Matouk, matouk.com

Matrix, matrixkids.com

Matt Story, mattstory.com

Mayer Fabrics, mayerfabrics.com

Mecox Gardens, mecox.com

Mermelada Estudio, mermeladaestudio.es

Minka Group, minkagroup.net

Munna, munnadesign.com

Nickey Kehoe, nickeykehoe.com

OiSoiSoi, oisoioiusa.com

Phillip Jeffries, phillipjeffries.com

Pindler, pindler.com

Portola Paints, portolapaints.com

Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com

Quadrille, quadrillefabrics.com

Ralph Lauren Lighting (see Visual Comfort)

Ralph Lauren Fabrics (see Kravet) ReSawn Timber Co., resawntimberco.com

RH, rh.com

Roberto Dutesco, dutescoart.com

RT Facts, rtfacts.com

Sanberg, sanbergwallpaper.com

Schumacher, schumacher.com

Serena & Lily, serenaandlily.com

Serena Dugan, serenadugan.com

St. Frank, stfrank.com

Stephen D’louhy (see Floe Painting) Stûv, stuvamerica.com

Sun at Six, sunatsix.com

The Urban Electric Co., urbanelectric.com

Thibaut, thibautdesign.com

Visual Comfort, visualcomfort.com

Waterworks, waterworks.com

Williams Sonoma, williams-sonoma.com

Workstead, workstead.com

Zak + Fox, zakandfox.com

from “In Perfect Harmony”

Sergio Mercado

Growing up a “beach baby” in Florida, Sergio Mercado studied architecture at the University of Miami and worked at a local showroom helping designers and shoppers select furnishings. Drawn to contemporary neutral style as a teenager, he designed his own room. “I had my mom buy me a roll of canvas, grommets and rods for drapery. The entire room was a canvas color—I wanted light,” he notes. Mercado moved to San Francisco where he worked in interior design before coming back east and earning a spot as creative director at Clodagh Design.

Since starting his own firm in 2011, he specializes in residential projects and hospitality interiors along the East Coast, and is acclaimed for creating breathtaking spaces “at the crossroads of contemporary design and timeless comfort.”

Mercado and his spouse, who works in digital media, and their two rescue Staffordshire terriers (Rocco and Gia) live in a townhouse on Gramercy Park’s “Block Beautiful” and spend weekends at a house in upstate New York with views of the Catskills. sergiomercadodesign.com.

Early on you were torn between fashion and interior design. Why did interiors win out? Fashion is of the moment. The idea of completely transforming a space that someone would be able to inhabit and enjoy for years was more interesting than designing a garment.

Why did you leave Miami for California? At the time, the color palette and materiality of Miami seemed very trendy, and the contemporary West Coast layering of neutrals, the use of solid materials, natural fibers and things that are handmade seemed more sophisticated and comforting— comfortable and cozy.

Describe your signature style. Laid back luxe. That warm modern that makes you want to kick off your shoes and walk around barefoot.

What is “stealth wealth”? It’s the layering of very complex materials

or finishes, highly textured fabrics, furnishings with soft lines and curves—all those things can add a sense of richness to an interior.

How do you make industrial materials seem warm and luxurious? You add contrast by incorporating details that are rich—you add something refined—a wrapped leather on the handle of a set of steel and glass doors or a bronze finish has a warmer tone than blackened steel.

How did you approach participating in the Kips Bay Decorator Show House? In a showhouse, you take your style and bump it up a few

notches—push the envelope. My aesthetic is very serene, so that’s what I did. We were on the top floor with a river view, so the focal point was the cloud fixtures and sight lines creating a calming, soothing, ethereal environment that people didn’t want to leave. People would say “I could spend all day in this space.”

How do you utilize the windows in your interiors? I love looking outside—I think people are drawn to the outdoors. It’s about the layout: I position the furniture to have a good view even in an urban environment.

How do clients participate in your work? I like integrating clients’

personal things into the home. Room by room, I ask “what would you love to have?” Maybe it’s a cigar humidor or a beverage center in a bedroom. It personalizes the space.

Describe good design. A certain level of restraint. There is an art to restraint, not filling a space with too many things. I think beautiful things need room to breathe—give them the space to just shine.

What do you deplore in design? When something is out of scale. I see it happen a lot—a lamp is too big for a side table, or a coffee table is too small.

What is the appeal of New England? So many homes are historical, and you get the contrast of contemporary and traditional. I find that interesting. I might be drawn to an architectural aspect of the home— trim, door frames, wall base—and repurpose it or use it for inspiration.

What is a space you’d like to decorate? The Gramercy Park Hotel. I live so close. During Covid, it was shut down and I don’t know if it will reopen. The architecture is beautiful, the exterior is pretty, the roof terrace is amazing—one of the most beautiful public spaces.—Sharon King Hoge

Contemporary Cool Mercado’s work includes this bathroom (this photo) from the NYC Kips Bay Decorator Show House and this Watermill living room (left).