Create Where
gem A NEW IN TOWN
Necklace Handcrafted in 18k Gold with Tourmaline Cabochons
Return to Glamour
A whole-home redesign takes a fashionable stance by Jamie Marshall photographs by Neil Landino, Jr.
in Focus
A beloved home enjoys new views of the Litchfield hills by David Masello photographs by David McCaughan
Jewelry designer Faye Kim transforms a Westport home for a simpler lifestyle by Laura Fenton photographs by Tria Giovan
Modern Tradition
Eleish Van Breems Home reimagines a Southport captain’s house for an active young family by Ann Loynd Burton photographs by Neil Landino, Jr.
From “Personal Treasure” page 72. Photograph by Tria Giovan on the cover
“Meet the Designer: Alex Proba” page 96. photograph by Ori Harpaz
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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.
Showroom Consultant Gina Saltarelli’s unique knowledge will help you select the ideal appliances for your home and lifestyle. Informed by her experience as design consultant and real estate professional, Gina is practical, creative and well-versed in what makes a great kitchen.
Embracing Change
Iam fascinated about our need for change. Some would argue that by our very nature, we are in a constant state of change. And it’s true: Just look outside and see how Mother Nature is on a constant schedule of change. And, as if mirroring the shift in the nature around us, in spring we start to crave something new: a new haircut, a new workout, a new hobby. So it is no surprise that homeowners start to look at their homes with a focus on changing things up. ■ Some of us like to start small by, say, adding new accessories to brighten up a room or buying new sheets and towels to give the bed and bath a refresh. Others, because they have been hibernating all winter staring at the same four walls, go big and knock down walls or totally redecorate rooms. Whichever you are, we all relish making our homes better. ■ This journey to improve our homes is also never ending. We recently decided to replace 17 windows in our farmhouse. The old ones were not very efficient and having one slam down on my finger (and requiring stitches in the ER!) instantly got me motivated to tackle this project. But as Harry and I were taking down all of the window treatments we decided that some needed an upgrade. I know that my eyes will quickly find many more projects to focus on before the end of spring. Just when you think you are finished, an adjoining space looks tired and then you are off and running all in the hopes of creating the perfect home. ■ And just when you think you are done inside your house, you decide maybe it’s time you reworked the outdoors. Your black-bottom pool? Time for a change. I was blown away by the artistic approach of Alex Proba’s pool design we feature on our cover this month. Beautiful pieces of art are created on the bottom surface of pools. From the ordinary comes the extraordinary. So make a change. Now.
DJ Carey Editorial Director djcarey@candg.com
Splash Zone
Learn all about Alex Proba’s colorful pool-surface designs in “Meet the Designer” on page 96.
CSpring Flings
TC&G proudly continues its annual sponsorship of the Aldrich Gala in the Garden. Join us on April 26 in Ridgefield for an evening celebrating not only the talented artist Maren Hassinger but also Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and our state itself. As the museum’s largest fundraiser of the year, the event shines a spotlight on emerging and yet-to-be-recognized artists. Guests will enjoy a showcase of art in the garden accompanied by cocktails, followed by dinner, an auction and a special performance in the newly revitalized sculpture garden where Maren’s art will take center stage. ■ Mark your calendars for the Victorian Darien: Historic Homes Happy Hour Tour on May 3 at 1 p.m. Remember, this exclusive tour is a one-time event with limited tickets available! ■ The celebration continues May 15 with the Greenwich Historical Society’s Spring Fete 2025, taking place at the Greenwich Country Club from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aerin Lauder—a paragon of style and founder of the global luxury lifestyle brand Aerin—will enchant attendees with stories from her book and her passion for florals. ■ Don’t miss the Midcentury Modern Homes Tour across Westport and Fairfield. This guided bus tour (parking worries begone!) will take you through some of the state’s most iconic modernist residences. ■ Lastly, immerse yourself in the gardener’s paradise at Trade Secrets, where you might spot famed designer Bunny Williams, the founder of the event, or Martha Stewart, a devoted fan eager to explore all it has to offer. ■ For information on all these events go to cottagesgardens.com/events ■ We look forward to seeing you there!
Marianne Howatson CEO/Publication Director mhowatson@candg.com
Plant Parenthood,
Garden Inspo (left to right) The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum exhibition “A Garden of Promise and Dissent” includes Bushes, 2021, by Maren Hassinger (courtesy of the artist and Susan Inglett Gallery, NYC) through November 2025. Bunny Williams and Martha Stewart at a past Trade Secrets plant sale.
Alina Bliumis,
Hedeoma Oblongifolia, 2023, Courtesy of the artist.
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A celebration of contemporary design, entertaining and lifestyle
THURSDAY, MAY 15
11:00AM-2:00 PM
GREENWICH COUNTRY CLUB
FEATURING
AERIN LAUDER
Legendary Style Icon and Founder of Aerin in conversation with
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Editor-In-Chief, Town & Country Magazine
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HOW DO YOU APPROACH REDESIGNING A SPACE?
STEVEN KALUR
“Redesigning an existing space is a mentally stimulating exercise to me because, unlike with new construction, one is working within certain constraints. My mind almost immediately begins analyzing the existing layout, determining its deficiencies and what opportunities were missed, and how it can be altered to maximize its functionality and grace. I literally begin to construct the finished space in my head, to a point where I already can feel myself standing in the redesigned space.” Architect, “Shift in Focus” (page 64) fharchitecture.com.
FAYE KIM
“When I was reimagining my space, I reflected on how my lifestyle had evolved after raising a family. Maximizing natural light and improving flow were my top priorities. I wanted a bright, open space with a harmonious energy that would inspire me while providing a sense of grounding and serenity.” Homeowner, jewelry designer, “Personal Treasure” (page 72), fayekim.com.
ALEXIS PARENT
“Quite simply, I start by getting to know my client. Listening and evaluating how to best serve their needs and the vibe they are looking to achieve within each space. After all, a home is meant to reflect the personalities of the people who live in them. I also draw inspiration from my travels and incorporate elements from different cultures—especially via artwork. With the proper flow, scale and layout it all comes together just right.” Interior designer, “Return to Glamour” (Page 54), alexisparent.com.
—Mary Fitzgerald
April 2025
FROM NORWALK TO KENT
GILDED AGE PROPERTIES 10
Join the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum for “Gilded Age Properties: A Sneak Peek at the Holdings of the Lockwoods & Mathews.” Through family letters, artifacts, handwritten notes, dusty newspaper accounts, tax records, will and deeds, Kathy Olsen, with a small team of mansion researchers, was able to piece together the fascinating history of the holdings of two renowned Gilded Age families. Olsen will host a revealing talk, which will span generations and uncover family assets, surprising beneficiaries and secret scandals. A Q&A and refreshments will follow the presentation. Thursday, April 10, 6–8 p.m. The Great Hall at HMTX Industries, 27 Seir Hill Rd., Norwalk. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit lockwoodmathewsmansion.com.
DIRECTOR’S CHOICE
NOW THROUGH APRIL
Kenise Barnes Fine Art celebrates 30 years of exhibition programming and art consulting with their latest exhibition, “Director’s Choice.” This exhibition brings together some of the many artists who helped establish the gallery and with whom they have longstanding relationships. Featured artists include Daniel Anselmi, Cecile Chong, Susan English, David Konigsberg, Laura Moriarty and many more. An artist’s talk with Margaret Lanzetta will take place on April 5, 4–5 p.m. Now through April 13. Kenise Barnes Fine Art, 5 & 7 Fulling Ln., Kent. For more information, visit kbfa.com.
ALDRICH GALA 26
The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum's Gala in the Garden, Saturday, April 26 at 6 p.m., celebrates Governor Ned Lamont and the State of Connecticut and artist Maren Hassinger. The gala features cocktails at the museum, followed by a seated dinner, a live auction and a special performance in the newly revitalized Sculpture Garden, where Hassinger’s work will be on display. Saturday, April 26, 6 p.m. The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit thealdrich.org.
Return to Africa
TENTED
They say Africa changes you. And after my first visit a few years ago, I agree. Nothing prepared me for the experience of being up close to magnificent animals in the wild. Recently, I had the chance to visit again, so the question became, “Has Africa changed?” Of course, change has occurred, but not in ways that affected my trip.
On this journey, I saw this magical place in a whole new way. I visited Ngala Tented Camp in South Africa, operated by andBeyond (andbeyond.com). This intimate camp, with just nine tented suites, is within Kruger National Park. The Big Five are just beyond your door—and I mean that literally. Days begin with a 5 a.m. knock on the door and a tray of coffee and biscuits. (Somehow getting up at this hour was never a chore knowing what the day might hold!) Our group of six assembled at 5:30 a.m. in the lobby, and off we went. Days were spent with sightings of lions, giraffes, zebras and rhinos—a leopard, alas, proved elusive.
After four hours or so, we returned for breakfast and to rest from the South African summer sun. A pool and gym awaited (so did a nap, if I am being truthful!). We assembled again late in the day for a twilight drive. Our guide, Ruel, was both fun and knowledgeable. Our tracker, who sat on a raised seat in the front of the Toyota Land Cruiser, was Adam, a quiet and a keen observer the likes of which I have never seen. A footprint in the sand meant a leopard had passed by. The wind with a strong scent meant elephants in the distance. We drove as the sun set, and we were at the mercy of the animals. After all, this is their home. Too hot? They stay sleeping. Too wet? They are not moving.
But I felt right at home here, too. Nestled in the riverside trees, our tent featured a beautiful outdoor shower and tub. Regional embroidered design and textiles appealed to the design editor in me, as did the granite stones and canvas throughout. Meals were usually enjoyed on a deck overlooking the riverbed, although a special dinner was held poolside on our last night. The bar in the lobby was welcoming and well-stocked.
As I think about change, I was so excited to see a white lion who was born when I first
visited. How did I see her again? It was meant to be. When the stars align—and they do!—it is magical. In a scene that I would not have believed if I hadn’t experienced it myself, a giraffe stood under a double rainbow looking at a pack of lions sleeping in the late day sun. And below them in a quarry were a pack of elephants drinking and
SMALL BUT MIGHTY
AT ROOMS WITH A VIEW, PETITE ONE-ROOM VIGNETTES DELIVER GRAND DESIGN INSPIRATION PHOTOGRAPHS BY
ALAN BARRY
Held in the library and great hall of the Southport Congregational Church, the 2024 Rooms With View (roomswithaview.org)—presented by media sponsor CTC&G —focused on a “Design for the Greater Good” theme. Every year, the multiday event—founded by late designer Albery Hadley, who had a home in Southport—revolves around a showcase of a dozen spaces created by a team of invited designers. This year, in addition to the vignettes, the Hadley Café was reimagined as the Café Americain by Sydney Frazier and Victoria Vought, and an art show was curated by Swoon Gallery. Sponsors of the event included Little Greene Paint & Paper, Waterworks, Baldwin Hardware, Eleish Van Breems, Fifth State Distillery, Knock on Wood Antiques, Ring’s End, Redi-Cut Carpets, Russell Agency, Scott Group Studio, Vaughan Designs, plus design sponsors AKDO, Pierre Frey, Jennifer Manners and
WORK PLACE
“The vignette was a representation of me at work surrounded by pieces I make in collaboration with different artisans that are available through my shop in Greenwich and online. The wallpaper on the ceiling is part of my collection Patrick Mele x Adelphi; the paper name is Adena Pin Wheel and is available through John Roselli. The aesthetic is a nod to Mr. Hadley, founder of Rooms With a View, along with another design hero of mine, Bill Blass, whose Connecticut home in New Preston, apartment on Sutton Place, and timeless contributions to fashion remain at the top of my inspiration list to this day. Two Connecticut gentlemen I look up to.”—Patrick Mele, Patrick Mele: The Shop, patrickmele.com
FORCE OF NATURE
“The inspiration for the space was nature. I think when designing for Rooms With A View, it’s important to overreach a bit. I wanted to go for a powerful visual effect, so I used my wife’s [artist and textile designer Rena Levine] fabrics and wallcoverings in varying shades of green. And we covered vintage slipper chairs in a bright green Sedallo fabric. I think that layering different versions of one color in a space has a big impact.”—Dan Barsanti, BarsantiDesmone, barsantidesmone.com
GAME NIGHT
“My design was a female-focused mahj bar to replace the age-old cigar bar. A jewelry box with walls displaying racks of mahjong tile collections in gem tones and bright colors mixed in with some vintage pieces. A cozy experiential room that builds great memories, community and connection between women. I was inspired by my sister who recently moved to Rowayton—her bubbly personality exudes bright colors and fun times. She learned mahjong and was quick to recruit me to the game. The group of women my sister has met have become, in essence, the key pieces to a life well lived in a new town.”—E. Peyton Cochran, Epic Interiors, epicmad.com
COASTAL SPLENDOR
“The inspiration behind the vignette was this idea of a global seaside experience: ‘Coast to Coast.’ Having experienced the coasts of Florida, Korea, Maine, Mexico, Connecticut, Costa Rica, California, etc., there is a very unifying experience of honesty, rawness and tranquility that every seaside context seems to have in common. Through my vignette, I wanted to specifically combine the design elements of Japanese fishing villages with Connecticut port towns. I believe we achieve the most objective and holistic sense of ‘good’ when we are able to carefully and respectfully combine opposing worlds. The juxtaposition of contrast and opposition is where beauty lies.”—Carissa Kim Pintello. Interior Design MFA Student, NYSID, Class of 2025
INVITING OASIS
“The Hadley Cafe was converted into ‘RWAV’s Café Américain.’ We took our inspiration from the souks and riads of Morocco all the while paying tribute to the movie Casablanca. With industry partners such as Knock on Wood Antiques, Scott Group Studio, Sanderson and Schumacher, we transformed the church’s chapel into a desert oasis right in the middle of Southport, Connecticut.”—Sydney Frazier, Sydney Frazier Interior Design, sydneyfrazierid.com and Victoria Vought, Victoria Vought Designs
CHIC CHAT ROOM
“I wanted to create a room with a sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance where one could sit in conversation for hours with friends. The standout feature is a bespoke velvet curved sofa with plush round cushions, creating a cozy and elegant seating area. One of my favorite pieces is the large abstract painting that has subtle strokes of green that pull perfectly with the sofa below. The room fits into the theme ‘For the Greater Good’ because it is about bringing people together in conversation.” —Dana Koebbe, Dana Koebbe Interiors, danakoebbeinteriors.com
TRAVELERS ESCAPE
“I wanted to create a vignette to evoke majesticism. One of the most memorable small spaces I discovered while traveling in India was a tranquil field encircled by trees, home to a community of Romani people who live and travel in these intricately crafted carriages, or vardos. Each individual vardo told a story. Inspired by their cozy charm, I set out to re-create that feeling. I used vintage furniture and accessories, giving the sense of treasures collected along their travels and items passed down from ancestors. The wallpaper, darker colors and layers of texture echoed the embrace of the trees and mystery of the Romani camp. With autumn’s arrival, I also focused on creating a space that felt like curling up next to a fire on a crisp evening— warm, intimate and full of quiet comfort, offering an escape from the chill of the season.”—Courtney Blanton, Courtney Blanton Interiors, courtneyblanton.com
PATTERN PLAY
“The design of my space drew inspiration from the many trellised rooms of design history past. I set out to install true trellis or lattice work until I came across ‘Jefferson Trellis’ wallcovering by Adelphi Paper Hangings. From there—and with the help of the fabric ‘Jungle’ from Bennison—the design evolved into what I referred to as ‘Unconfirmed Bachelor Returns to Palm Beach from The Grand Tour’.”—Alexander D. Wilson, Alexander D. Wilson, alexanderdwilson.co
SERENITY NOW
Sara Hillery’s vignette is aptly named “Nancy Goes Barefoot in Southport,” which was a nod to the esteemed tastemaker and design legend Nancy Lancaster. Originally from Virginia, Lancaster wowed the world with her famous yellow room in London designed with John Fowler. Hailing from Virginia herself, Hillery paid homage to Lancaster by designing her own yellow room with classic architectural details and well-appointed fixtures. Her vignette was designed as a more demure room where one might feel inclined to go barefoot and curl up with a book, yet elegant enough to welcome guests from the city.—Sara Hillery, Sara Hillery Interior Design, sarahillery.com
STAIRWAY TO STYLE
“I worked for Albert Hadley in the late ’80s and early ’90s as my first job out of college. I learned a lot from Albert and was inspired by the example he set in his work both in design and for this charity, the Southport Congregational Church. I wanted to do something with forced perspective in order to make such a small space appear like a much larger room. I turned to the work of the great renaissance architects Bernini and Borromini and looked at their experiments with forced perspective—the Scala Regia at the Vatican and the Palazzo Spada in Rome. ‘Barbie Bernini’ was the result and was a great way to show off the items Barbie collected during her tours, travels and parties in Rome and the items she eventually gave away to the charity!”—Douglas Wright with project architect Amy Farber, Douglas C. Wright Architects, dcwarchitects.com
FRESH TAKE ON TRADITIONAL
“When thinking of my space, I kept coming back to a painting I had with a modern Diebenkorn-esque feel that I felt would be the perfect focal point. I, however, wanted to pair it with more traditional aspects to create a room that felt personal with warmth. As a friend and coauthor of Bunny Mellon Style, I incorporated references to her such as using predominantly varying shades of blue, her favorite color, (“Bryan, you know I even dream in blue”), and a blue and white Schumacher paper that gave a nod to her love of toile. To add the needed ‘punch’ to the center, I added her favorite Tillett Textiles butterfly fabric in shocking yellow. I also filled the walls and painted étagère with pieces of porcelain ceramics and pastel portraits and quirky little paintings hung very much in her style. I felt that I achieved my objective of creating a very personal space with color, pattern and layering while keeping it fresh and modern in feel.”—Bryan Huffman, Bryan Huffman Interior Design, bryanhuffmaninteriors.com
STORIED SANCTUARY
“My room was a little girl’s bedroom. The theme was ‘Liza through the generations.’ The bed belonged to my daughter Liza, the bamboo sewing table belonged to my grandmother, the needlepoint hassock was done by my mother, and the little doll’s bed was for the baby girl that my daughter is about to have. There was a portrait of Liza in the room too. How this relates to the theme ‘For the Greater Good:’ Family is everything.”—Betsy Shiverick, Betsy Shiverick Interiors, betsyshiverickinteriors.com
CAREFULLY CURATED
“For this space themed ‘Private Collectors Art Gallery in their Residence,’ we really wanted to feature different artists and showcase their incredible talents. To that end, even the wallpaper was art. Made just for us by the group at Phillip Jeffries, it’s called Fluent and is a take on a modern painting. Both graphic and complex—it is made of grasscloth—it created an unusual backdrop to place art on. People hear of new artists, but their work is not seen. We wanted attendees to see the incredible art local artists are creating.”—Kerry Delrose, AlianaMia Torres and Sarahi Reyes, Delrose Design Group, delrosedesigngroup.com
Out of the Box
SET TO IMPRESS
Made in Paris by Sabre, the natural bamboo and stainless steel dinner set from Serena & Lily dresses up a table with a relaxed yet refined look. Five-piece flatware set, $122, serenaandlily.com.
ASPIRATIONAL ENTERTAINING CTC&G WAS THE MEDIA SPONSOR FOR THE DESIGNED TO DINE FUNDRAISER BENEFITTING THE COMMUNITY FUND OF DARIEN. THREE TABLETOP DESIGNS SERVE AS OUR MUSE FOR THE CHIC ENTERTAINING ESSENTIALS SHOWN HERE. COMMUNITYFUNDDARIEN.ORG.
BLUE & WHITE BOUQUETS
Pretty and practical, Tuckernuck Home’s Rain Striped Bouquet placemats are reversible and wipeable. Set of four, $98, tnuck.com.
DINNER IS SERVED
Arboretum stoneware from the Kravet/Pottery Barn collection features a sophisticated floral damask rim, inspired by heirloom textile designs. Set of four, $70, potterybarn.com.
CHEERS!
Octagonal drinking glasses from Eleish Van Breems Home are handmade in Murano, Italy. The geometric silhouette in blue is accented with a white rim. Available in seven colors. $185 each, evbantiques.com.
PORCELAIN PRIZE
Blue and white porcelain is a timeless favorite. Ballard Designs offers a variety of options in various shapes and sizes—use just one or cluster a grouping for a dramatic centerpiece. As shown, $169, ballardesigns.com.
THE ART OF SETTING A STYLISH TABLE | BY MARY FITZGERALD
Summer travels to Puglia inspired this tablescape by Anna Burke Interiors. Building on a theme of blue and white, the designer sourced local flowers, unique glassware and hand painted plates by Bitossi Home. annaburkeinteriors.com.
Adding Asian flair to their “Year of the Dragon” table, Amy Walton and Kristin Davidsson of Atkinson Reilly Design layered in textures and patterns with bold colors. “We wanted the table to engage the senses and stir emotions.” atkinsonreillydesign.com.
FOO FORTUNE
Oscar de la Renta’s fine porcelain collection for Williams Sonoma wears a floral motif inspired by a gown specially made by the designer himself in 2006. Crafted in Portugal, the Coralina charger’s subtly scalloped edge is outlined with a gold rim. Best of all, the dinnerware is dishwasher safe for everyday use. $145, williams-sonoma.com.
ARTIST’S HAND
Italian textile artist Luisa Longo designed the Panarea linen cotton tablecloth for Artemest with brilliant brush strokes of green, blue, brown and gold. Handcrafted in Italy in linen cotton. $495, artemest.com.
A pair of Foo dog figurines from Perigold invite positive feng shui energy. When not overseeing a meal, the hand-painted porcelain statues look great standing guard on a mantel or bookshelf. $169, perigold.com.
HUDSON GRACE
Mouth-blown double old-fashioned glasses from Hudson Grace lend character with slight variations in texture and shape in a traditional amber and brown tortoise pattern. $18, hudsongracesf.com.
LEOPARD PRINT
Take a walk on the wild side with Schumacher’s iconic Leopard print napkins from Matouk in 100-percent linen, shown here in the Cinder Set of four, $165, available through Home Boutique of Greenwich, homeboutique.com, matouk.com.
PLAYFUL SOPHISTICATION
Designer Sophie Lou Jacobsen turns everyday objects into art with color and form. Her Ripple wine glasses in pink from Design Within Reach are crafted in borosilicate glass with an easy to hold ripple shape. Set of two, $48, dwr.com.
CLASSIC BEAUTY
Mainly Baskets’ wicker urn takes centerstage when filled with flowers or greenery. Crafted by skilled artisans, the classic Greek silhouette features a braided top edge. $488, mainlybaskets.com.
FULL BLOOM
The floral design of the Rose May soup plate by John Derian is inspired by a 19th-century pattern. Each dish is handmade and glazed by artisans at Paris-based atelier Astier de Villatte. $155, johnderian.com
CANDLELIGHT DINNER
If lieu of fresh flowers, the tulip candlestick by Paris ceramic studio Jean Roger does the trick. Shown here in pink, Casa Branca offers a variety of colors to complement your table. $395, casabranca.com.
FRINGE BENEFITS
This pink ruffle-edge straw placemat from Joanna Buchanan is handcrafted in 100-percent Abaca. Set of four, $198, available through Hoagland’s of Greenwich, hoaglands.com, joannabuchanan.com.
ELEGANT EMBROIDERY
Female artisans in Western India embroider Marigold Living’s Florentina napkins using colored threads of pink and magenta in European satin and stem stitches to create the delicate floral motif. each, marigoldliving.com.
Katherine Nedelkoff opted for “a view through rose-colored glasses” for her tablescape adorned with jewel-toned glassware, beautiful porcelain, rattan and an abundance of garden flowers. @katherinenedelkoffdesign.
Designed by: Christie Carpentieri, ASID Principal Designer, e Interior Design Studio, LLC
246 Federal Rd, Suite A12
Brookfield, CT 06804
(203)885-0799
Modern Meets Classic
Once upon a time, McMansions flooded New England towns everywhere. Most of these homes had a common thread. ey were designed with a European country style using heavy moldings, wrought iron, corbel brackets & appliqués, coffered ceilings, paneled walls, mustard golds, cherry woods and dark stains. Fast forward to twenty years later. Here we are in 2025, finding ourselves longing for brighter spaces flooded with light, natural warm toned materials, fabulous textures, comfortable living spaces free of clutter, and a strong sense of bringing the outdoors inside our homes. Unobstructed views of the great outdoors, tons of windows with minimalist treatments, and colors reminiscent of nature are on everyone’s radar these days. Many homes built in the late 1990’s thru the late 2000’s are undergoing serious makeovers and are becoming bright, airy and livable spaces, yet we still yearn for a sense of opulence, luxury and classic styles. We call this “Modern Meets Classic.” Modern meets classic to this once ornate home and while, yes less is more, classic elements will always remain timeless.
Buzzworthy
A fifth series of wallpapers is being launched by Little Greene in partnership with the National Trust. The eight whimsical wallpaper designs were researched and carefully designed and colored by Little Greene with charming animal prints, pastoral scenes and fanciful stripes. The pictorial designs are presented with coordinating paint shades to decorate a child’s room, mudroom, powder room or anywhere you fancy a bit of fun. “It’s always such an honor to have access to the incredible National Trust properties,” says Little Greene’s Creative Director Ruth Mottershead. “It’s wonderful to think that these beautiful pieces of history, including toys, children’s illustrations and fabrics have now been transformed by the design team into wallpapers that will find their way into contemporary homes, bringing joy for years to come.” A contribution from the sale of every roll supports the National Trust’s conservation work. 9 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-4850433, littlegreene.us.
FORWARD VISION
If you dream it, they will come. That was the hope of Sasha Glavatskaya-Vincent when she conceptualized Sasha’s Barn House. Now a reality, the Greenwich venue encompasses a catering space and art gallery, and offers floral design and installation. With 30-foot-high cathedral ceilings, expansive windows offering abundant light and beautiful outdoor spaces, the barn provides an ideal place to host a party or special event. Glasvatskaya-Vincent describes Sasha’s Barn House as “a joyful retreat where one can appreciate, share, and be inspired by exceptional art, beautiful objects, nature and unique experiences.” A Europeanstyle tea house is scheduled to open at the Barn House this spring. 300 Valley Rd., Cos Cob, 917-993-1598, sashasbarnhouse.com.
TEXTILE ICONS Italy Meets NoMad YOUNG AT HEART
Two heritage names known for opulence and craftsmanship, Sferra and Scalamandré, have collaborated on a selection of luxury bed linens. The recent release includes two of Scalamandré’s cherished archival patterns—Pondicherry and Cobblestone. Pondicherry’s floral and wild bloom is rooted in Palampore prints dating back to the 18th Century. Cobblestone’s Byzantine design is an original 1960s pattern from Scalamandré. Its rhythmic mosaic motif—inspired by the Greek city of Mystras’ cobblestone streets—has been updated in a contemporary watercolor wash. Duvet covers, pillow shams, coverlets and decorative pillows complete the collection. sferra. com, scalamandre.com.
It’s been a landmark year for Porro. Not only is the Italian brand celebrating 100 years of design, it has opened its first United States flagship store in NYC’s NoMad district. The showroom, designed by West Chin Architects & Interior Designers, is filled with the brand’s timeless designs, modular systems and iconic furniture.
“Porro returns as a protagonist in New York, opening in
NoMad, one of the city’s most vibrant areas,” says Artistic Director Piero Lissoni. “We return in style, showcasing the Porro house and renewing this important dialogue between America and Italy.” 31 E. 31st St., NYC, 212-837-2970, porro.com.
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DEEDS DON’TS
The Big Pivot
At long last, some good news about the housing market. Across the country, nearly every residential real estate indicator has improved. Best of all, there’s been an increase in inventory, expressed in months of “housing supply”—meaning how long it would take to sell the current crop of listed homes, given the average number of days it takes one to find a buyer. Nationally, there are four months of inventory with the average listing lasting 57 days, the most buyer-favorable data since 2020. Closer to home, the Fairfield County market, for example, had 14 percent more inventory at the start of the year, as compared to 2024, while the number of homes sold ticked up by nearly seven percent. And speaking of positive change, each of the for-sale properties featured here have undergone big pivots of their own, ranging in scope from whole-house renovations to lovely updates and enhancements. Join us for a virtual tour spanning our state’s shoreline, from Greenwich to Guilford, with detourworthy stops along the way.
Winthrop For The Win Here’s a three-bedroom condo available in Rowayton’s circa-1848 Winthrop House, listed for $2,995,000 with Kristin Nemec of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty in Rowayton. 203-829-8998.
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One of the most coveted condo complexes along the Fairfield County coastline is called Winthrop House, a restored same-name, once-ailing single-room-occupancy hotel. Grandly built in 1848, the now three-unit property has resumed its pride of place in the heart of Rowayton village, within strolling distance of everything everyone loves about this coastal enclave, including Rowayton Market, Brendan’s 101 (those lobster rolls!) and Pinkney Park, which hosts Shakespeare on the Sound every summer. Credit the Glazer Group for returning Winthrop to its former glory—and popularity. Seldom do units come available, which is why you’re encouraged to make haste booking a visit to its only listing, on the market for $2,995,000. Measuring nearly 3,000 square feet on two floors serviced by a private elevator, the unit is perfect for down-sizers who don’t really want to give up space to live more simply—or fuss with maintaining an antique home. The open-plan common rooms feature high ceilings, period millwork and antique flooring. There’s a private front porch and a private terrace, as well as three big bedrooms and a (also fuss-free) gas fireplace. And the Italianate exteriors are glorious, surrounded by a high sculpted hedge for yet more privacy. Kristin Nemec of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty has the listing.
A Classic Colonial In Haddam, this circa-1860 Colonial lists for $2,750,000 with Casey Fisher with Houlihan Lawrence in Branford. 970-209-0781.
including a first-floor primary suite. And on the 10 acres, there’s a swimming pool, formal gardens and open meadows with views over the Connecticut River. The property lists with Casey Fisher with Houlihan Lawrence.
MODERN MAKEOVERS
Another 19th-century beauty is on the Haddam market, listed for $2,750,000. Called the James C. Walkley estate, the circa1860 home was restored two years ago, starting in its grand, 35-foot-long entry hall. Standout main-floor spaces include the living room with a fireplace—one of eight in the home—and the handsome, well-equipped kitchen, with an adjacent butler’s pantry. There are five bedrooms and five full bathrooms,
Ridgefield is one of Fairfield County’s most charming small towns. And now there’s a newly renovated home listed—for $5,295,000—at the intersection of Main and Market, walking distance to the Aldrich Museum of Art, the Ridgefield Playhouse and everybody’s favorite French bistro, Luc’s. Combining village life with peaceful privacy, the compound
THE HIGH LIFE
Think you’re above it all? Then check out this top-floor unit at 66 High Street in Guilford, called the most luxurious penthouse in the state of Connecticut. High praise, but we think the 4,000-plus-square-foot condo rises to the occasion. The complex itself started life 130 years ago, serving over the years as a factory—including one that employed women during World War II to assemble ball bearings for military vehicles. More recently, it won multiple HOBI awards, including Project of the Year, the organization’s highest honor for new developments. The penthouse unit, designed by award-winning architect David Scott Parker, offers a great room, a screened porch with panoramic views and three bedrooms, including a primary suite with a gas fireplace. It lists for $6.7 million with the Margaret Muir Team of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty in Madison. 203-415-9187.
TOP: MARC KESLOW, BOTTOM: DENNIS CARBO
“Club of the Year” (South Carolina Golf Association)
“Top Community to Follow Your Passion: Charitable Giving” (Golf Home Network)
“Outstanding Tennis Facility” (USTA)
“Best Kayaking”; “Best Island Community”; “Best Health & Wellness” (ideal-LIVING)
“TWO Top 50 Golf Courses” (SC Rater’s Panel)
has been expanded by the current owners, who added a chic pool house equipped with a gas fireplace, a refreshment bar and a pretty, covered terrace. Also on the two-acre grounds is a tennis/sport court and a two-story barn, painted a classic Connecticut red. There are more enhancements inside the circa2000, 9,410-square-foot home, starting in the renovated kitchen, featuring a La Cornue range, two islands and an adjoining butler’s pantry. Along with six bedrooms, there’s also a newly kitted-out, third-floor space featuring a billiards room, full bar and lounge and a lower-level space with a gym and home theater. Karla Murtaugh of Compass has the listing.
Finally, a Greenwich property called Orchard Hill has hit the market for $7,495,000. The circa-1997 gated estate, on 6.18 acres, was renovated last year, a project that put a pretty polish on the stone-and-shingle-style main house, offering seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms. Come spring, the grounds also dazzle, especially the pool terrace, equipped with a spa and a pergola and, in the outdoor dining space, a fireplace. The surrounding gardens were designed by William Rutherford and there’s also a Har-Tru tennis court with a pavilion and terrace. It’s offered by Helene Barre and Fran Ehrlich of Sotheby’s International Realty.— Diane di Costanzo
The Spa Life Packed with sybaritic amenities, this Greenwich property is listed for $7,495,000 with Helene Barre and Fran Ehrlich of Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenwich. 203-550-0855 and 203-249-5561.
Walk This Way This renovated manse—in town in Ridgefield—just hit the market for $5,295,000, listed with Karla Murtaugh of Compass in Ridgefield. 203-856-5534.
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CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS
GLAMOUR
BY JAMIE MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHS BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.
Welcome In A circular drive and mature plantings set the tone for the home’s stylish interiors. See Resources.
Sitting Pretty (this photo) The living room features a pair of Chesterfield sofas and mirrored console tables from RH. An elegant Christopher
chair occupies a far corner. Chic Space (opposite page) Electric Linen porcelain tile from Tile America lines the walls of this bathroom. The crystal vessel sink and vanity are through MaestroBath. See Resources.
Guy Jardin Droite accent
WHEN THE NEW OWNER OF A 7,000-SQUAREFOOT HOME
in Southport asked Alexis Parent for help giving the property a facelift, the Westport- and Miami-based designer jumped at the opportunity. “It’s a unique house for this part of Connecticut,” she says. A mixture of styles, the 1989 build had good bones, large rooms and tall ceilings. “The house was probably very glamorous in its day.” But that day had long passed.
The client had a couple of directives: The house had to be dog friendly (she has seven), and it had to sparkle. “She loves a bit of shimmer,” Parent says.
She approached the project methodically, addressing the most urgent issues first. “Any place there was water intrusion or mold, we worked on right away. Then we took away anything that felt stuffy. Fabrics, carpets, wallpapers and textiles. Those things don’t age well.”
In their place, Parent introduced a sophisticated palette of black, grays and whites, then layered in pops of color and a mix of textures and materials throughout. In the process, she transformed nearly every room into something modern and stylish—yet timeless.
Kitchen Magic (this page) A Hammerton Studio Gem chandelier provides lighting over the island, which is topped with Arabescato quartz. The cabinets are by Radzwillas Kitchen & Bath Design, and the Mir Mosaic hearth tile is through Tile America. Black And Light (opposite page) A custom chandelier from Hammerton Studio centers above the dining table; the fringed McGuire mirror is through Baker; and the sparkly ceiling wallpaper is through York Wallcoverings. See Resources.
Work Study (left) A corner of the home office is furnished with a Lazzoni side chair, ottoman and nesting side tables. A polished nickel droplet chandelier by Maxim Lighting is complemented by a silver-leaf wallcovering from Osborne & Little. A Dog’s Life (below) The elevated dog shower features custom millwork, tile from Tile America and a Kohler handshower. See Resources.
A pair of charcoal velvet-tufted Chesterfield sofas make an inviting seating area near the oversized fireplace in the living room. Windows are framed by ivory sheers, which help lighten the space. A Christopher Guy carved mahogany side chair features his signature camellia flowers, an ode to Coco Chanel. In the dining room, a black McGuire fringed mirror adds a dramatic touch above the marble fireplace, and it echoes the black of the ebony table and the lacquered display cabinet. The designer added a bit of sparkle to the ceiling with a paper from York Wallcovering. “I call it the fifth wall. It’s such an easy way to make a room feel spectacular,” she notes. “In this case it really does the trick.”
Similarly, in the client’s office, with its exuberant Kandinskystyle painting over the hearth, she covered the ceiling with a silver beaded Osborne & Little paper and added a chandelier with polished-nickel droplets. “The room really glows,” says Parent. “It’s not just beautiful during the day, it’s beautiful at night as well.”
The heart of any home is the kitchen—and this one was definitely on life support. “It was so cavernous and everything was so dark—the cabinets, the floors,” Parent says. She added and moved walls to enhance the flow, replaced the existing three islands with one giant island topped with a sleek Arabescato quartz countertop with a double waterfall edge, changed clunky overhead lighting for a Hammerton Studio chandelier, redid the cabinets, framed the double-sided fireplace with a
gray and chrome mirrored tile, and crafted a custom tile hood above the Wolf range.
She took the same approach with the primary suite, with “its cave-like bathroom,” which Parent took down to the studs. She replaced the old steam shower and relocated it to a 10-foot-tall glass enclosure. Adding to the airiness of the space are the 48-inch-square porcelain wall tiles (the floors are 24 by 48). “You can imagine what it was like to lay them out to get all the veining right. It took days.” Next to the bathroom, the reconfigured walk-in closet is a fashionista’s dream with an illuminated glass display case built specifically for her collection of designer purses.
As often happens with a renovation, the project took on a life of its own. “We started with some of the smaller projects first, then she realized once you start updating, it makes other things look very old.” Parent would schedule the work for the winter and then wrap up for the summer, so the client and her partner could have peace and quiet. “We were carving out her forever home,” says the designer. “We weren’t designing for the market; we were designing it for her.” ✹
Down Time (left) In the family room, a coffee table from Bernhardt anchors an L-shaped sectional from RH, accented with Hermès throw pillows. The windows are dressed with a Lee Jofa fabric.
Fab Fashion (below) The custom millwork for the primary closet was done by Radzwillas Kitchen & Bath Design. Sweet Soak (opposite) Porcelain tile from Tile America gives the primary bath a zen-like feel.
A Hudson Valley Lighting chandelier hangs above a freestanding tub from Torrco. See Resources.
SHIFT
IN FOCUS
A BELOVED HOME ENJOYS NEW VIEWS OF THE LITCHFIELD HILLS
BY DAVID MASELLO | PHOTOGRAPHS BY DAVID MCCAUGHAN
Sense Of Place
The main section of the home (above) is New England fieldstone, which was repaired and extended to the soffits. A look inside the foyer (right) reveals Paris Ceramics’ Vintage Marquina Negra and Carrara checkerboard flooring and a ballerina sculpture by Margot Frances Kalur. See Resources.
Ever since it was built in 1936, this Woodbury house has been a welcoming home to its residents, but not until now has it taken advantage of its best feature. Its current owners, who have been living here for decades, decided to undertake a change that would transform how they—and everyone who visits—experience their home.
“There was never a good connection to what happens at the back of this house,” explains Steven Kalur, who was commissioned as an architectural designer to reconfigure and reinvent the residence. “When the house was built, there was no thought as to how it would use the land on which it sits.” From the rear of the house, a swath of the Connecticut River Valley opens up. Although the house is sited atop a hill, the grade dips to reveal an expanse of undulating land, the green gully dotted with Litchfield County towns, trees and a distant panorama of hills. As Kalur says of the changes that he made to the fourbedroom house: “You are now constantly engaged with that
Habits
a
Study
(left) A vintage alabaster pendant from 1stDibs hangs over a midcentury modern desk in the office. Contemporary Vibe (opposite page, top to bottom) In the sunroom, furnishings are arranged on
vintage reed mat from Michael Trapp. Mudroom walls wear Benjamin Moore’s White Dove, which contrasts with slate floor tiles. See Resources.
Open Seating (clockwise across spread from this page) Custom kitchen cabinetry is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Nature’s Essentials with Classic Brass hardware, while the countertops are a honed soapstone, the range is Bertazzoni, and the pendants are by DeVol Kitchens. A vintage French chandelier from South Loop Loft hangs over the kitchen table. Bar cabinetry finished in Farrow & Ball’s Light Blue is complemented by a walnut countertop and a Waterworks faucet. A white oak ceiling brings warmth to the redone living room, where vintage sofas are upholstered in linen. See Resources.
view even when inside. The goal with our additions and changes was to focus the living areas toward the back of the house, and have the rooms there engage with those views.”
Unlike many of the secondary houses Kalur redesigns for clients, he emphasizes that this one is a true family home, in that it never functioned as a getaway weekend house, as many such residences are in parts of Litchfield County. “This is a full-time family home,” he stresses. “The family, over all these years, has really enjoyed life in the house, but it had become desperately out of date, and they recognized that.”
Working closely with the couple’s grown daughter, Kalur and she agreed on what needed to be done—a gut renovation that would keep the essential original layout, but add 1,400-square feet at the back, open up its rooms to the views; a more open floorplan inside would result in rooms that felt airier and fresher. The scope of his work involved rebuilding the primary suite and living room wing, configuring an expanded screened porch, adding expanses of white clapboard siding and New England fieldstone, putting up new stone chimneys, laying bluestone walkways, erecting low-rising stone walls, and knitting together a pergola as an al fresco dining space.
Changes occurred quickly, in part because the grown daughter wanted it all finished in time for her wedding, which was to take place in the home in which she had grown up. “The daughter really steered us on this project,” says Kalur, whose practice is based in Washington Depot. “She had lived in the house for more than 30 years before moving away. She has really good taste and knew what she wanted—and knew what the house needed. She, along with her mother, were my point persons.”
Like many houses of its era, the rooms were tightly proscribed in size and function, with an emphasis on the dwelling’s having a strong curb appeal in its neighborhood. Indeed, the neo-Colonial fit in well and harmoniously with its neighbors, and still does, but it assumes a new identity inside and in back. Kalur and the owners were intent on making the rooms flow
into one another, and, as he says, “for the house to be oriented so that it invited people outside in a way that it hadn’t before.” A long passageway now links rooms at the rear, so that while traversing the house, the views beyond remain visible. Kalur was adamant about retaining the traditional look of the house. “We didn’t lose the language of the type of house this is,” he says. Like many renovation projects, what began as a modest desire to change up some rooms soon became a much larger endeavor. “Once I started playing with the plans, the clients realized the full potential, and they were gently eased out of their caution to let the house be what it could be,” Kalur explains. “Given their desire to entertain more often and on a larger scale, the house now suits them and accomplishes what they wanted it to do all along.” ✹
Bright Spots (clockwise across spread from far left) A custom white oak vanity in the primary bathroom is equipped with a Lefroy Brooks faucet, and the sconces are through Remains Lighting Company. Lighting in the primary suite includes a flushmount fixture from Roman and Williams and sconces by In Common With. A new stone chimney was installed on the rebuilt screened porch. New bluestone walkways surround the pool. See Resources.
Collector’s Corner When designing her home, Faye Kim (opposite page) made space for her eclectic collection of art, objects and furniture, including an antique live-edge table (this page) from Japan and a stone Buddha head that was a gift from her sister. See Resources.
Treasure Personal
JEWELRY DESIGNER FAYE KIM TRANSFORMS A WESTPORT HOME FOR A SIMPLER LIFESTYLE
BY LAURA FENTON | PHOTOGRAPHS BY TRIA GIOVAN
Jewelry designer Faye Kim was looking for a place to set up her jewelry showroom when she bought a Cape-style house on a main street in Westport—she wasn’t thinking it would become her next home. But when Kim sold the house where she had raised her children, she ended up moving into the part of the house not being used as a showroom. And what was meant to be a temporary solution got her thinking. “Living there made me realize that I didn’t need all these rooms, like a formal dining room that I only use when I entertain,” says Kim, who lives alone. “I wanted every space that I had to be part of my everyday life.”
Kim started to imagine how she would makeover the house to suit her current lifestyle, but she wasn’t in a rush—she wanted to get it right. With time her ideas coalesced, and Kim started interviewing designers to help her realize her
Laidback Living (clockwise across spread from opposite page, top) In the living room, two wood stools serve as a coffee table, while new sliding doors from Amelyx are framed by Libeco linen drapes through Belgian Huis. In the entryway, an antique cabinet, a metal Biedermeier-style chair and a lacquer bowl form an intriguing vignette. Designer Jimi Napoli collaborated with New England Stair Company on the floating oak tread and glass stairwell. The timbers surrounding the sliding door were sourced through Conway Hardwood Products. The wallpaper in the powder room is through Pergola. See Resources.
Authentic Flavor (left) Kim found the antique brick veneers through Faceables Decorative Brick & Stone Coverings. The live edge tabletop hails from New England Antique Lumber.
Clean Kitchen (above) Custom cabinetry is complemented by porcelain countertops from U.S. Marble & Granite. See Resources.
vision. It wasn’t until a customer introduced her to Jimi Napoli of Antonio Luca Design, who specializes in kitchens and baths, that she found someone who really listened to her ideas.
Napoli and Kim sketched out plans for how they could expand the house at the ground level only, but the relatively small lot and neighbors nearby sent them back to the drawing board. A better option was to make a smaller addition to the footprint and raise the roof on the second floor. In addition to more space, Kim wanted to let in more light. “I love old homes because they have great bones,” notes Kim. “The house was solid—it had a stone foundation—but it lacked space and light.”
Downstairs, Napoli proposed that they move the kitchen and stairwell and make room for the formal entryway that Kim desired. With windows running up the spine of the new staircase and sidelights at the front door, daylight would flood the center of the house. On the kitchen and primary bedroom side of the house, Napoli suggested using transom windows to let in light while retaining privacy. To make it all a reality, Napoli introduced Kim to builder Karol Kostrzewski, who like Napoli, was an attentive listener who came up with solutions collaboratively.
A designer herself, Kim had specific ideas for some of the details, like a wall of antique brick in the new kitchen, which she tracked down through a dealer.
In many instances, Napoli helped interpret Kim’s inspiration into something fitting for the house. For example, Kostrzewski thought the concrete floors that Kim imagined in her entryway weren’t well suited to the climate, so Napoli suggested a slate tile that would give a similar look.
For the art and furnishings, Kim didn’t need much help: She already had a lifetime’s worth of beloved art and antiques that she wanted to display. In fact, Napoli drew inspiration from Kim’s personal collection. Drawing on the Asian provenance of many of Kim’s furnishings, he designed tambour-style doors for a linen closet and the primary bathroom vanity. Kim’s collection influenced the home’s design in another way. “I tend to like knickknacks and little things, so I wanted storage, but I also wanted everything behind closed doors,” says Kim. Napoli delivered with minimalist, closed-door storage, especially in the kitchen.
The whole team describes the experience as a rewarding, collaborative effort. In fact, they liked working together so well that Kim hired Napoli and Kostrzewski to help make over her new store in Darien, which opened in February. Now that the jewelry showroom has moved out of her Westport house, we have a hunch Kim will be reworking the rest of the house with her collaborators soon. ✹
Delightful Doors (opposite page top to bottom) Custom tambour
oak doors hide a linen closet at the top of the stairs; the bamboo light fixture by Motarasu is through Studio Nordhaven. Three Provençal pitchers that Kim collected over the years are displayed on top of an antique Korean blanket chest.
Suite Serenity (this page, clockwise from right) A BainUltra tub takes pride of place in the primary bathroom. A custom oak vanity is topped with a slab of Neolith porcelain. Transom windows above the bed allow light into the primary bedroom. See Resources.
Pretty Portico (this photo) At the side entry, a McKinnon and Harris bench offers a respite between Eleish Van Breems Home planters; the sconce is through Remains Lighting. Curb Appeal (opposite page) The wraparound porch is furnished with L.L.Bean rocking chairs and RT Facts drink tables. See Resources.
Modern Tradition
ELEISH VAN BREEMS HOME
REIMAGINES A SOUTHPORT
CAPTAIN’S HOUSE FOR AN ACTIVE YOUNG FAMILY
BY ANN LOYND BURTON | PHOTOGRAPHS BY NEIL LANDINO, JR.
When Kerry and Dan Wilson were relocating their family of five (now six) from Maryland to Connecticut in 2021, they were searching for a home with history and character. They found both in spades at this 1830s captain’s house near the harbor in Southport. Originally built by shipping scion Lot Bulkeley, the home features an Italianate wraparound porch, large transom windows, and a charming entrance gate and picket fence.
The couple worked with Fairfield-based J.P. Franzen Associates Architects to update the house and Westport design studio Eleish Van Breems Home to create comfortable, soulful, antique-filled interiors, all while paying mind to the property’s historical significance. “You want to have forms that speak to tradition but have a modernity to them,” says company partner and cofounder Rhonda Eleish. “It was a complete transformation into a very peaceful environment that is soothing, with soft colors that are really simpatico with the exterior and connected to a captain’s house near the water.”
To start the transformation, Franzen’s team gutted the first floor, redid the foyer stairs to address an odd layout with unwieldy steps, renovated the kitchen and family room, and refreshed the second floor. The architects also completed a large addition that sits to the south of the main house featuring a mudroom,
Grand Entrance (clockwise across spread from this photo) J.P. Franzen Associates Architects redid the staircase in the Colonial style, creating a new entryway complete with Ralph Lauren pendants through Visual Comfort and an antique chest of drawers and bench sourced by Eleish Van Breems Home. Phillip Jeffries Bermuda Hemp wallcovering gives a textural backdrop to antiques like this Gustavian chest of drawers. In the living room, a pair of Lee Industries sofas finished in Holland & Sherry fabric are joined by an early 19th-century long-case Swedish clock and 20th-century Baker mahogany coffee table. See Resources.
Fine
Chic
powder room, sunroom and office, plus a second-floor bedroom suite. Due to the home’s prominence in town, the team had to navigate Historic District Commission guidelines and deliver a layout that felt like it had always been there. “We redesigned the staircase in the Colonial style, and if you didn’t know better, you’d think it was original,” offers principal Jack Franzen. “We used mouldings and doors that were period style, along with traditional cabinets with inset drawers and doors.”
Now that the layout could accommodate the Wilson’s large family, they turned to Eleish Van Breems to create an indoor/outdoor design that was soothing, liveable and layered. “Dan and I have always been drawn to older homes. We love the character, the details and the styles of old houses,” says Kerry Wilson. “I love antique furniture, and I wanted the space to have a mix of new and old. EVB helped put my ideas into a cohesive vision.”
That vision, Eleish says, broke down to a “whole-house project” that included an airy, light-filled color palette and a mix of performance fabrics and luxury fabrics that were soft and cuddly, plus liveable antiques. “They’re not too precious, but they’re formal enough for the living/dining room and lend a level of elegance to the space,” she adds. “It’s the type of house that is beautifully put
Dining (above) The dining room features Swedish reproduction dining table and chairs by Eleish Van Breems Home, made in Sweden and handpainted and finished in their Connecticut studio.
The vintage chandelier has a three-tier wrought-iron frame with crystal flowers.
Cooking (left) In the kitchen, Design Within Reach stools pull up to the roomy island, topped with Grothouse walnut butcher block. See Resources.
together but very conducive to living in.” Antiques span a 20th-century Baker mahogany oversized butler’s tray coffee table, long case Swedish clock from the early 19th century and Gustavian chest of drawers circa 1785 in the living room to a simple Gustavian-style bench (1880) in the entryway.
Along with antiques, Eleish Van Breems Senior Interior Designer Alexis Blake custom-designed pieces and sourced items from the studio’s in-house reproduction line of Swedish furniture. The team also worked with North Carolina–based vendors like Lee Industries to upholster pieces in soothing yet durable fabrics.
Blake also worked with Fairfield’s Outdoor Design & Living to create the pool surround, barbecue and outdoor entertaining area. “They’re a cooking family and wanted to have a livable, functional space outdoors,” Blake confirms, noting that the team added a seating area with firepit, extendable teak dining table with chairs, and a small outdoor kitchen complete with a sink and grill. “It’s a nice extension off the sunroom that feels very warm and connects to the terrace. It’s that indoor/outdoor living that feels very Scandinavian,” Eleish adds, and the Wilsons welcome that lifestyle.
“We all gravitate to the sunroom in the morning; the family room off the kitchen is in constant use; and if anyone needs a little quiet time they head to the ‘green room,’ or formal living room,” Kerry notes. “We host dinner parties, birthdays and holidays in the dining room. But I think my favorite room might be the foyer. I love the light in that room, the windows, the view to the yard. My daughter and I play the piano there, and it’s actually where I do yoga because it’s so pretty and peaceful, even with the kids and dog circling me.” ✹
Pure Joy In the sunroom (above), a Baker Furniture sofa and lounge chairs wear a Castel fabric, while a Dunes and Duchess Tiki floor lamp and Baker Sunflower cocktail table add to the indoor/ outdoor vibe. In the primary bedroom (right), an antique Swedish Rococo cupboard (circa 1760) is complemented by a Rug & Kilim custom rug. See Resources.
Rest & Relaxation
Kingsley Bates club and lounge chairs surround the pool, while Janus et Cie counter stools provide seating in the outdoor mini-kitchen. See Resources.
Coming this spring A GRAND TUDOR IN THE HEART OF HISTORIC HARTFORD, THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF HARTFORD 2025 DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE PRESENTED BY CTC&G (CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS)
The 16th Junior League of Hartford Designer Show House presented by CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens) , is the signature event-based fundraiser for the Junior League of Hartford, and has raised nearly $2 million for its charitable projects and programs. This highly-anticipated Show House is hosted every three years, and is the only event of its kind in Central Connecticut.
Honorary Design Chair: MATTHEW PATRICK SMYTH
Open to the Public: MAY 2 2 3
For sponsorship opportunities: advertising@candg.com
For more information: cottagesgardens.com/hartford2025
Image by: Amy Archambault
Darien, May 3
A walking tour of a unique late-19th century enclave boasting an array of styles.
May 17
A bus tour of midcentury and modernist architecture spanning decades.
Guided by historians and architects, each tour discusses a number of historic buildings—their styles and their stories—and includes interior tours of well-preserved, private homes.
promote the preservation and appreciation of historic architecture.
RESOURCES MORE
RETURN TO GLAMOUR
Pages 54–63: Interior design, Alexis Parent Interiors, alexisparent.com.
Living room: Drapery fabric, Jim Thompson. Pillow fabric, Osborne & Little. Sofas, mirrored console and mirror, RH. Accent chair and wingback chairs, Christopher Guy. Trefoil side table, Gabby. Bathroom: Tile, Tile America. Sink, fixtures and vanity, MaestroBath. Dining room: Ceiling wallpaper, York Wallcoverings. Chandelier, Hammerton Studio. Dining chairs, Mod Shop. Mirror, McGuire. Kitchen: Cabinetry, Radzwillas Kitchen & Bath Design. Countertop, Cassatelli Marble & Tile Imports. Floor and hearth tile, Tile America. Range, Wolf through Marsillios.Home office: Chair, ottoman and nesting side tables, Lazzoni Furniture. Chandelier, Maxim Lighting through Elements Trade Lighting. Ceiling wallpaper, Osborne & Little. Drapery fabric, Zak+Fox. Dog washing station: Tile, Tile America. Hand shower, Kohler. Millwork, Chino Home Improvement. Family room: Sectional, RH. Coffee table, Bernhardt Furniture. Carpet, Stanton Carpet. Window fabric, Kravet. Accessories, Bungalow. Throw pillows, Hermès. Mirror, Christopher Guy. Bench, Interlude Home. Media console, Design Within Reach. Marble fireplace, Cassatelli Marble & Tile Imports. Primary closet: Custom cabinetry and millwork, Radzwillas Kitchen & Bath Design. Primary bathroom: Tile, Tile America. Tub and tub filler, Torrco. Chandelier, Hudson Valley Lighting through Elements Trade Lighting. Bench, Interlude Home.
SHIFT IN FOCUS
Pages 64–71: Architectural designer, Steven Kalur, F+H Architectural Design & Consulting, fharchitecture.com. Entry: Flooring, Paris Ceramics. Light fixture, Stilnovo. Sculpture, Margot Frances Kalur. Office: Chandelier, 1stDibs. Sunroom: Floor mat, Michael Trapp. Dining room: Chandelier, South Loop Loft. Mudroom: Paint, Benjamin Moore. Kitchen: Cabinetry paint, Benjamin Moore. Hardware, Classic Brass. Range, Bertazzoni. Pendants, DeVol. Chandelier, South Loop Loft. Bar cabinetry paint, Farrow & Ball. Faucet, Waterworks. Hardware, Classic Brass. Primary bathroom: Faucet, Lefroy Brooks. Sconces, Remains Lighting Company. Flooring, Paris Ceramics. Primary suite: Lighting, Roman and Williams Guild. Sconces, In Common With.
from “Return to Glamour”
PERSONAL TREASURE
Pages 72–79: Interior design/ kitchen and bath design, Jimi Napoli, Antonio Luca Design, antonioluca.com. Contractor, Karol Kostrzewski, Karolsky Construction LLC, 203-391-1289. Landscape design, Stonewall Garden, 203-528-7538. Windows and doors, Michael Taraba, Amelyx, 203-515-1143. Millwork, Attila Milak, Fine Line Architect, 914-426-2648. Kitchen: Cabinetry, Fine Line Architect through Antonio Luca Design. Counters, US Marble and Granite. Appliances, Sub-Zero/ Wolf through County TV and Appliance. Faucet, Rohl. Photograph, Stacey Morgan. Powder room: Wallpaper, Pergola Home. Stairway: Pottery, Pergola Home. Primary bath: Counter, Neolith through US Marble & Granite. Sink and tub faucets, Crosswater London. Tub, Bain Ultra. Entry vestibule: Door, Amelyx. Wood beam enclosure, Conway Hardwood. Landing/stairway, New England Stair Company. Cabinet, Fine Line Architect. Art, Danielle Noonan.
Light fixture, Motarasu through Studio Nordhaven. Living room: Curtains, Libeco Belgian Linens through Belgian Huis. Dining area: Transom window, Amelyx. Table, New England Antique Lumber. Brick wall, Brick My Walls. Jewelry, Faye Kim Designs.
MODERN TRADITION
Pages 80–89: Architect, J.P. Franzen Architects, franzenarchitects.com. Interior design, Alexis Blake, Eleish Van Breems Interior Design, evbantiques. com. General contractor, Home Square Pro, homsqr.com. Landscape design, Outdoor Design & Living, outdoordesign. com. Plaster work, Zordan & Sons Plastering, zordanplastering.com. Window treatments, Yardstick Décor, 203-330-0360. Wallcovering installation, Wall Design Interiors, 203-733-0201. Upholstery, Kostas Upholstery, kostas-upholstery.com. Front exterior: Rocking chairs, L.L. Bean. Drink tables, RT Facts. Sconces, Remains Lighting Company. Side
exterior: Sconces, Remains Lighting Company. Bench, McKinnon and Harris. Planters, Eleish Van Breems Home. Entryway: Pendants, Visual Comfort. Chest and bench, Eleish Van Breems Home. Window treatment fabric, Rogers & Goffigon. Living room: Sofas and chair, Lee Industries. Sofa fabric, Holland & Sherry. Chair fabric, Lee Industries. Coffee, end tables, chest, clock, throw blanket and accessories, Eleish Van Breems Home. Pillows, Peter Fasano through John Rosselli & Associates. Pillow trim, Samuel and Sons. Drapery fabric, Rogers & Goffigon. Wallcovering, Phillip Jeffries. Table and floor lamp, Visual Comfort. Rug, Rug & Kilim. Vases, Hein Studio. Sunroom: Sofa, lounge chairs and cocktail table, McGuire. Sofa and lounge chair fabric, Castel Maison. Console table, Serena & Lily. Rug, Coverture LLC. Pillows, Svenskt Tenn. Floor lamp, Dunes and Duchess. Kitchen: Countertop, Grothouse. Stools and chairs, TON through Design Within Reach. Window
treatment fabric, Schumacher. Table, Dunes and Duchess. Pendant light, The Urban Electric Company. Artwork, Janet Jennings through ARC Fine Art. Tableware, Eleish Van Breems Home. Dining room: Rug, Palace Rugs. Chandelier, enfilade, cabinet, dining table, dining chairs, mirror and tableware, Eleish Van Breems Home. Dining chair fabric, Rogers & Goffigon. Master bedroom: Cupboard and bench, Eleish Van Breems Home. Skirted chair, Lee Industries. Rug, Rug & Kilim. Master bathroom: Stool and ceiling light, Eleish Van Breems Home. Roman shade fabric, Schumacher. Roman shade trim, Samuel & Sons. Patio and pool area: Counter stools, Janus et Cie. Club chairs and chaise lounge, Kingsley Bate. Umbrella, Tuuci.
SOURCE LIST
1stDibs, 1stdibs.com
Amelyx, amelyx.com
Antonio Luca Design, antonioluca.com
ARC Fine Art, arcfineartllc.com
Bain Ultra, bainultra.com
Belgian Huis, belgianhuis.com
Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com Bernhardt Furniture, bernhardt.com Bertazzoni, bertazzoni.com
Brick My Walls, brickmywalls.com
Bungalow, bungalowdecor.com
Cassatelli Marble & Tile Imports, 203-847-6880
Castel Maison, castelmaison.com
Chino Home Improvement, chinohomeimprovement.com
Christopher Guy, christopherguy.com
Classic Brass, classic-brass.com
Conway Hardwood Products, conwayhardwood.com
County TV & Appliance, countytv.com
Coverture LLC, coverturellc.com
Crosswater London, crosswaterlondon. com
Danielle Noonan, 203-216-4393
Design Within Reach, dwr.com
DeVol, devolkitchens.com
Dunes and Duchess, dunesandduchess.com
Eleish Van Breems Home, evbantiques.com
Elements Trade, elementstrade.com
Farrow & Ball, farrow-ball.com
Faye Kim Designs, fayekim.com
Fine Line Architect (see Antonio Luca Design) Gabby, gabby.com
Grothouse, glumber.com
Hammerton Studio, studio.hammerton.com
Hein Studio, heinstudio.com Hermès, hermes.com
Holland & Sherry, hollandandsherry.com
Hudson Valley Lighting, hvlgroup.com
In Common With, incommonwith.com
Interlude Home, interludehome.com
Janet Jennings (see ARC Fine Art)
Janus et Cie, janusetcie.com
Jim Thompson, jimthompson.com
John Rosselli & Associates, johnrosselli.com
Kingsley Bate, kingsleybate.com
Kohler, kohler.com
Kravet, kravet.com
L.L. Bean, llbean.com
Lazzoni Furniture, lazzoni.com
Lee Industries, leeindustries.com
Lefroy Brooks, usa.lefroybrooks.com
Libeco Belgian Linens, libeco.com
MaestroBath, maestrobath.com
Marsillios, marsillios.com
Maxim Lighting, maximlighting.com
McGuire, bakerfurniture.com
McKinnon and Harris, mckinnonharris.com
Michael Trapp Inc., michaeltrapp.com
Mod Shop (see 1stDibs)
Motarasu (see Studio Nordhaven)
Neolith, neolith.com
New England Antique Lumber, newenglandantiquelimber.com
New England Stair Company, newenglandstair.com
Osborne & Little, osborneandlittle.com
Palace Rugs, palaceorientalrugs.com
Paris Ceramics, parisceramicsusa.com
Pergola Home, pergolahome.com
Peter Fasano (see John Rosselli & Associates)
Phillip Jeffries, phillipjeffries.com
Radzwillas Kitchen and Bath Design, radzwillas.com
Remains Lighting Company, remains.com
RH, rh.com
Rogers & Goffigon, rogersandgoffigon.com
Rohl, houseofrohl.com
Roman & Williams Guild, rwguild.com
RT Facts, rtfacts.com
Rug & Kilim, rugandkilim.com
Samuel & Sons, samuelandsons.com
Schumacher, schumacher.com
Serena & Lily, serenaandlily.com
South Loop Loft, thesouthlooploft.com
Stacey Morgan, 610-331-2778
Stanton Carpet, stantoncarpet.com
Stilnovo Lighting (see 1stDibs)
Studio Nordhaven, studionordhaven.shop
Sub-Zero/Wolf (see County TV & Appliance)
Svenskt Tenn, svenskttenn.com
The Urban Electric Company, urbanelectric.com
Tile America, tileamerica.com
TON, ton.eu
Torrco, torrcodesigncenter.com
Tuuci, tuuci.com
US Marble and Granite, 203-333-9133
Visual Comfort, visualcomfort.com
Waterworks, waterworks.com
York Wallcoverings, yorkwallcoverings.com
Zak + Fox, zakandfox.com
DESIGNSTOPS
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santabarbaradesigns.com @sbumbrella
Alex Proba
Innovative swimming-pool surface designs are among the multidisciplinary creations of Alex Proba, whose interiors and furniture express her urge to enhance living spaces with unexpected arrangements of color and form. Many works are reconceptualized from her 2013–2017 “A Poster A Day” project, when she daily turned abstract concepts into asymmetrical, surreal digital collages. German born, the New York– and Oregon–based designer attributes inspiration to memories of gardening with her florist and horticulturalist grandmother (babcia)—a Polish refugee from Communism. Memories of patterns she wore, gardens she tended, meals she cooked, remind Proba of art’s power to evoke emotion and connection. studioproba.com.
How do you describe your “signature visual language”?
A style that exudes joy and playfulness. My work is expressive and colorful, with moments of boldness, quiet elegance, and organic, playful forms. My mission is to push boundaries, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary, turning everyday spaces into vibrant fields of color and shape that captivate and inspire.
How did transforming pool surfaces occur to you? With their clean, expansive surfaces, pools presented a unique opportunity to blend love of vibrant color with the natural elements around them—a perfect canvas to merge design with the joy and playfulness pools represent.
How do you approach a pool project? I begin with an exploration of the space—its environment, architecture and energy—thinking about how the art can reflect the water’s fluidity and the surrounding natural elements.
What role does nature play?
My design ethos is built on a foundation of inspiration taken from the natural world, a seamless integration, where the artwork feels like it belongs in the space and deepens the experience of the pool. In a Miami pool, design evocative of coral reefs serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and protecting local ecosystems.
What complications arise in creating the designs? The biggest challenge is ensuring durability. Pools are exposed to elements like water, sun and chemicals, which can effect the materials used. I need to consider how the design will hold up over time and how to make sure the colors remain vibrant, and the surface remains intact.
What extra expense is involved in this kind of non-classic surface?
The custom, organic handmade tiles and non-traditional surfaces require specialized craftsmen and highquality materials, and the installation process requiring skilled labor increases the overall cost.
What are the benefits of this decorative approach? A functional area is transformed into an artistic focal point, blending form and function to add both visual interest and emotional impact. It creates an immersive environment where art and nature coexist, bringing joy and vitality to the space.
What other residential surfaces could benefit from this treatment? Bathroom walls, kitchen backsplashes, entryways, courtyards, backyards, facades could benefit from this approach. Even floors in high-traffic areas could be enhanced with bold, colorful designs that bring
personality to a home, creating a cohesive, dynamic atmosphere throughout the space.
What public space would you like to design? I would love to embellish a large urban plaza or a public historic fountain. A place where people gather and interact would be perfect for creating an immersive, colorful experience. I see it as an opportunity to connect people with art in their everyday lives, sparking joy and curiosity as they move through the space. —Sharon King Hoge
Pool As Canvas Proba’s custom swimmingpool surface designs utilize handmade tiles and nontraditional surfaces that require skilled craftsmen to install.
Photography
Neil Landino
OCHRE
fu r ni t u r e . l i gh t ing . a c cessor i e s och r e .ne t
