CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens) May 2021 by Cottages & Gardens Publications

connecticut cottages & gardens may 2021

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | MAY 2021

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Delights Spring’s Earthly

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C onnecticut C ottages & G ardens • M ay 2021 •

cottagesgardens . com

FEATURES 56

Personal Masterpiece From intricate details to the sumptuous setting, Plantsville Pines is conceived from scratch by Tovah Martin Photography by Kindra Clineff

Timeless Elegance A garden party by preeminent hostess Stephanie Booth Shafran photography by

The Ingalls

Styling by Stephen Pappas

A Patterned Advance A series of outdoor rooms progress from refined to pastoral spaces David Masello photography by Caryn B. Davis by

Still Waters Remaining true to its roots, Stonebrook reverberates with echoes of its creator Alice DeLamar by Susan

Tamulevich Neil Landino Jr.

photography by

on the cover “A Patterned Advance,” page 64. photograph by Caryn B. Davis

From “Still Waters,” page 80. Photograph by Neil Landino Jr.

Redefining Value

132 Water Street, South Norwalk, CT 203-831-9000

C onnecticut C ottages & G ardens • M ay 2021 •

cottagesgardens . com

COLUMNS 30

Books

DEPARTMENTS 18

Editor’s Letter

Books in Bloom

Spring is bursting with a bounty of books that will inspire, delight and heal by

Letter from the CEO

DJ Carey

Marketplace

Contributors

Open Air Policy

Make the most of the season with the latest plein-air furnishings by

Mary Fitzgerald

Calendar

Jewelry

Spring Bouquet

What’s New

Floral jewelry, a perennial favorite, is bursting this spring in dramatic designs by

Out of the Box

Look what’s popping up in the garden this spring

Harriet Mays Powell

Mary Fitzgerald

Meet the Designer

Janice Parker

Landscape architect Janice Parker shares her passion for garden design and nature’s transitory beauty by Sharon

King Hoge

Design Notes A peek inside the latest buzz-worthy design news happening in the area by

Mary Fitzgerald

Deeds & Don’ts Inside stories behind area real estate deals by

Diane di Costanzo

Resources

E X P E R I E N C E

V I S U A L

C O M F O R T

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GRAND GREENERY

HOTTEST LIGHT FIXTURES OF 2021 Want to stand out? These bold pieces selected by Laurent Lighting guarantee that. See more at cottagesgardens.com/ laurentlighting

JOIN US!

Stay up to date on the latest CTC&G news, events, extraordinary real estate and more! Follow us on Facebook @cottagesgardens

YOUR INSPIRATION. OUR EXPERTISE.

Inspired windows by Marvin maximize the views of this custom waterfront masterpiece in Guilford supplied by Ring’s End. Go to cottagesgardens.com/ringsendtour to read more!

GRAND GREENERY: JAMES DOYLE DESIGN ASSOCIATES; YOUR INSPIRATION. YOUR EXPERTISE: COURTESY OF RING’S END; JOIN US: COURTESY OF TEMPAPER

Update your home’s landscaping to enhance and elevate your property to new heights. Find inspiration on our gardens board at pinterest.com/cottagesgardens.

SUMMER 2021

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• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • M I L LW O R K

aithful readers will remember

last May when I waxed poetically about the virtues and healing powers of the garden. I also spoke about our efforts to tame an invasive vine that had overtaken a section of our yard. Harry wanted to unleash napalm (kidding!), but I was more forgiving and sought a natural way to destroy this thing. ■ Truth be told, the plant grows in a neighbor’s yard and spreads on “runners” so, of course, it doesn’t respect fences or property lines. What a nuisance. Argh! But my colleague Laura suggested industrial strength vinegar. I purchased 12 one-gallon jugs of concentrated (not cooking!) vinegar that needs to be diluted. Harry bought me a spray canister and set me loose. In fairness to him, he is wildly allergic to the vine and has the dermatologist bills to prove it! ■ Fast forward to this year and last year’s invasive stems remain blackened—I know I am jinxing myself!—and I am ready to clear them and enjoy the area as a blank canvas. I have a border of nepeta, a pair of rose of Sharon and, unfortunately the only buddleia that survived. But I am thinking roses. I have fond memories of roses in my parents’ garden. ■ In Connecticut, we inherited roses from the previous owner of our property and they returned faithfully every year with their glorious shadings and fragrance, but the renovation ended that garden. But I am willing to try again. ■ Beatrix Farrand, the well-known American landscape gardener once said, “Don’t plant a rose garden unless you mean to look after it!” Farrand’s practical knowledge of roses proved essential when commissioned in 1915 to design a large rose display garden at the New York Botanical Garden, now called the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden. ■ I have no delusions of grandeur, but I think I am up for the task this summer. I know that it will be hard work but worth it to see these flowers thrive in my garden. And I was inspired by the new book by Peter E. Kukielski with Charles Phillips, Rosa, Yale University Press (2021). Kukielski claims the rose has existed for 35 million years! But will it exist at my house? Stay tuned.

• ARCHITECTURAL CONCRETE • GREEN BUILDING

DJ Carey Editorial Director djcarey@candg.com

UCEBUILDERS.COM CONNECTICUT • BERKSHIRES H U D S O N VA L L E Y

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Hybrid China rose from Rosa, by Peter E. Kukielski with Charles Phillips, Yale University Press (2021).

CAREY: CHICHI UBIÑA; HAIR AND MAKEUP BY WARREN TRICOMI SALON AND SPA, GREENWICH; ROSE: ROSA BY PETER E. KUKIELSKI, YALE UNIVERSITY PRESS

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LAURENT LIGHTING A N D D E S I G N

LETTER FROM THE CEO

Garden Strolls

ay!

Warm weather is coming and, if you are like me, you are eyeing your garden with dismay as you see how much work needs to be done. ■ For inspiration there are two upcoming garden tours sponsored by CTC&G which you must attend. ■ The Southport Garden Stroll is the Pequot Library’s signature fundraising event and features the community’s most intriguing gardens, many of which have been featured in magazines, and two of them recognized by the Archives of American Gardens at the Smithsonian Institution. ■ Come to the kick-off the night before on June 3 at a private Southport residence. You will have the opportunity to meet designer and ceramist Christopher Spitzmiller and get a copy of his book, A Year at Clove Brook Farm, Rizzoli (2021). ■ Make two days of it by heading to Greenwich to attend the 2021 Grandiflora Garden Tour on June 4–5 to support the Greenwich Botanical Center. There, you will see some of the most spectacular private gardens in Greenwich and have the opportunity to enjoy landscapes never seen by the public. For tickets to these garden tours, go to cottagesgardens.com/events. ■ I hope to see you there.

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Meet designer and author Christopher Spitzmiller at the Southport Garden Stroll kick-off event on June 3.

HOWATSON: DOREEN BIRDSELL; SPITZMILLER: ANDREW INGALLS

Marianne Howatson CEO/Publication Director mhowatson@candg.com

1320 Post Road East Westport, CT 06880 203.577.5388 www.kohlersignaturestorewestport.com

may 2021 PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Marianne Howatson

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DJ Carey

DESIGN/PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Julie Curtis-Paktinat

Catriona Branca

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

SENIOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Kristen Hoge

Mary Fit zgerald

EDITOR AT LARGE

Sharon King Hoge

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sheri de Borchgrave, Diane diCostanzo, Helen Klisser During, Eva Hagberg, Jamie Marshall, Tovah Martin, David Masello, Mindy Pantiel, Harriet Mays Powell, Alexa Stevenson, Susan Tamulevich CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Julie Bidwell, Willie Cole, Tria Giovan, Robert Grant, John Gruen, Neil Landino Jr., Tim Lenz, Ellen McDermott, Anastassios Mentis, Keith Scott Morton and Eric Richards, Costas Picadas PROOFREADER

Annette Rose-Shapiro C&G MEDIA GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTORS

DJ Carey

Kendell Cronstrom

DESIGN/PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

Julie Curtis -Paktinat COTTAGESGARDENS.COM

Stacey Farrar , Beth McDonough Alayna Dixson PRODUCER Michael Ekstract dailyDEEDS.COM EDITOR A nne G iordano CORRESPONDENT C harles H obbs DIGITAL INTERN A manda L upinacci

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THE INDOORS, NOW OUTDOORSY

Meet Skycove™, an immersive outdoor experience designed to be enjoyed within the comfort of the indoors. Seamlessly connect a room to light and views with Skycove’s innovative glass structure while adding valuable square footage to any space. Because the feeling of nature is far too perfect to leave outside. Invite the outdoors in at marvin.com/skycove

may 2021 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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CONTRIBUTORS

Commenting on the gardens found on page 64, “A Patterned Advance,” photographer Caryn B. Davis says, “This garden has a quiet beauty that I think comes through in the images. Early morning was when the light was the softest and the garden was at its most serene.” The journalist and award-winning photographer specializes in architecture, garden, boat and travel photography. She lives in Lyme, but her career has spanned the globe taking her to over 50 countries. Her images and articles have been featured in major publications, and she has produced two commissioned photography books, including her latest endeavor, "Connecticut Waters: A Celebration of Our Coastline & Waterways" published in April of this year.

GEORGE ANTHONY JONES

The mastermind behind the Plantsville Pine gardens, George Anthony Jones describes himself as a designer, craftsman, master gardener and landscape artist. “I have always had a love of nature, beautiful gardens and landscapes as far back as I can remember,” says Jones. His passion transformed an old asparagus farm into the gardens found on page 56 in “Personal Masterpiece.” The property holds a unique collection of perennials, shrubs, ornamentals and specimen conifers, notes Jones, and includes several unique “garden rooms.” “My garden has been a safe spot during these uncertain times,” adds Jones. “Visitors tell me it transports them to another place of joy.”

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

GLENN AND ELISE MAJOR

Homeowners Glenn and Elise Major have been devoted stewards of the gardens at Stonebrook in Weston for the past 14 years (see “Still Waters,” page 80). “It has been our greatest pleasure to restore and enhance this unique property over the years, by both respecting the history it holds and enjoying the beauty that unfolds with each season,” notes the couple. The property was once home to heiress Alice DeLamar. A patron of the arts, DeLamar hosted artists and luminaries such as George Balanchine, Salvador Dali, Dave Brubeck, and Eva Le Gallienne. Today, the gardens reflect traditional elements and enhancements conceived by the Majors, including the installation of ornamental urns, formal gardens and specimen trees.

DREW KENNY

After years of studying art, enjoying the outdoors and working as a builder, Drew Kenny followed his passion for landscape design, opening Outdoor Lifestyles. The mission of his East Lyme company is to provide meaningful exterior living spaces for his clients—responding to their desires and needs —while enhancing the existing conditions and the natural environment of each property. The River Knoll project, found on page 64, “A Patterned Advance,” was about "creating a smooth and deliberate transition from the natural beauty of the Connecticut River to the fine details of the estate and living spaces," according to Kenny. He notes, “It was important that we celebrated the history and location.” —Mary Fitzgerald

DAVIS: RACHEL POSTOVOIT; JONES: CARLA STERNBERG KOCH

CARYN B. DAVIS

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Your Inspiration. Our Expertise.

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May 2021 From Stamford to Ridgefield

ALDRICH UNDERCOVER Enhancing Views & Exceeding Expectations

Landscape Design & Installation Masonry Walls, Walks & Patios Gardens - Pots - Seasonal Decor

SECRET CONNECTICUT The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will host an illustrated virtual talk with travel writer and author Anastasia Mills Healy on “Secret Connecticut: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure.” This virtual talk will feature a selection of stories from her new book that highlights Connecticut’s long history of intriguing people, places, and events. Sunday, May 16 at 2 p.m., Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum, 295 West Ave., Norwalk. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 203-838-9799 or visit lockwoodmathewsmansion.com.

ENDURING WONDER The Stamford Museum & Nature Center will celebrate its 85th anniversary with the exhibition “Enduring Wonder.” This exhibition will give viewers a visual history of the development and evolution of the museum’s permanent collection. Objects featured range from the natural world, agricultural sciences, astronomy and history to important 19th–20th century American Art and major sculpture. Friday, May 21 through Sunday, August 22. Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Rd., Stamford. For more information, call 203-977-6521 or visit stamfordmuseum.org.

To list your upcoming event in our next issue, contact Jennifer Barbaro at jbarbaro@candg.com 203.351.1108

www.terragreenllc.com

kristin@terragreenllc.com

SECRET CONNECTICUT: (PORTRAIT) ANNIE WATSON, (BOOK) PHOTO COURTESY OF A. HEALY; ENDURING WONDER: COURTESY OF STAMFORD MUSEUM & NATURE CENTER

Four Season Property Care & Maintenance

CTC&G is the proud media sponsor of the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum’s annual “Aldrich Undercover”—a secret art sale and fundraiser. All works are priced at $350 and sold anonymously, and the artists’ identities are only revealed after purchase. This reenvisioned event will take place virtually, starting with the presale launch party on Thursday, May 6. Thursday, May 6 through Sunday, May 9. Tickets on sale now. The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 203-4384519 or visit thealdrich.org.

One-of-a-kind. In so many ways. Designer Lawrence Levy has a passion for making every project special. “That’s why I send my clients to Bender. They find everything they need right there to create their own unique spaces. Plus, Bender’s knowledgeable and eager showroom consultants go out of their way to bring your vision to life.

Chris O’Dell The O’Dell Group

No wonder designers and builders like Chris O’Dell collaborate with Bender. The result is always uniquely special.” Visit us in person or go to BenderShowrooms.com to take a 3D tour of our Norwalk or New Haven showrooms. Hartford | New Haven | Norwalk | Waterbury decorative plumbing | kitchen & bath cabinetry | tile & stone © 2021 Bender Plumbing

Lawrence Levy Interior Designer

BOOKS

Books in Bloom S P R I N G I S B U R S T I N G W I T H A B O U N T Y O F B O O K S T H AT W I L L I N S P I R E , D E L I G H T A N D H E A L

1. Rosa: The Story of the Rose by Peter E. Kukielski with Charles Phillips (Yale University Press). Few flowers have quite the same allure or significance in history as the rose. A symbol of love, power, royalty, beauty and joy, the rose has played many roles, both literal and symbolic, in poetry, art, literature, music, fashion, perfume, decoration, cuisine, and more. This beautifully illustrated guide tells the fascinating and many-layered stories of this “queen of flowers.” The book explores narratives from the long association of roses with human societies, from their first cultivation—likely

in China some 5,000 years ago—to the modern genetic cultivars, and illustrates how roses have thrived and flourished throughout time and various cultures. $30, yalebooks.yale.edu. 2. Charlotte Moss Flowers by Charlotte Moss (Rizzoli). From her grander floral displays in the city to her more informal creations at home in the country, as well as in the refined interiors of her clients, Charlotte Moss chronicles how flowers provide visceral pleasure indoors and out. Her one defining floral philosophy is that flowers are not just

for special occasions but deployed as one of the loveliest elements of everyday living. Toward that end, Charlotte encourages readers to bring the garden indoors with ideas for arranging flowers, selecting containers and placing blossoms around the home. $50, rizzoliusa.com. 3. The Healing Garden by Deb Soule (Princeton Architectural Press). The founder of Avena Botanicals offers an inspiring guide to herb gardening and crafting herbal remedies to promote wellness of spirit and body. Soule combines her passion for plants, gardens and healing with her extensive experience working with medicinal herbs, flowers, roots and berries. Explore growing, gathering and drying herbs, as well as preparing herbal teas, tinctures tonics and syrups. $25.95 papress.com. 4. A Year at Clove Brook Farm by Christopher Spitzmiller, written with Clinton Smith (Rizzoli). Filled with tips on garden planning, creating seasonal flower arrangements and tending to animals, here is a timely book, as we are all focused on making the most of our own homes and gardens—even if that’s only a row of herbs in a sunny urban window. Organized by season and recounting how life flows on a working farm, it’s the perfect inspiration for anyone enthralled by the fantasy of full-on farmstead living. $45, rizzoliusa.com. 5. The Humane Home by Sarah Lozanova (Princeton Architectural Press). Learn how to evaluate the ways our lifestyle choices can be made more sustainable, from powering our homes to the food we consume and the air we breathe. Small

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

steps empower us to act immediately: starting an herb garden; reducing utility bills; learning how to conduct a home energy audit; doing fun, DIY activities. The easy-tofollow, eco-friendly practices can reshape how we think about our living spaces and help us create a blueprint for our own personal version of a humane home. $25.95, papress.com. 6. The Garden in Every Sense and Season by Tovah Martin (Timber Press). So much of gardening is focused on seasonal to-do lists and daily upkeep. But what about taking time to just enjoy the garden? CTC&G contributor Tovah Martin urges you to revel in what you’ve created. From the heady fragrance of spring lilacs to the delicious silence of a winter snowfall, this writer and lifelong gardener explores the glories of her garden using the five senses. Her sage advice and gratifying reflections on the rewards of a more mindful way of gardening will inspire you to look closer, breathe deeper, listen harder, and truly savor the gifts of your garden. $16.95, timberpress.com. 7. Garden Portraits: Experiences of Natural Beauty by Larry Lederman (Monacelli Press). A photographic portrait of 16 gardens in Connecticut and the lower Hudson Valley, this book presents stunning views of these long-admired and studied gardens throughout the seasons, capturing their essential spirit. The highlighted landscapes include those of philanthropist Lewis Cullman, jazz great Dave Brubeck, Pace Gallery founder Arne Glimcher and the late leading classical antiquities dealer Edward Merrin. $50, monacelliepress.com. –DJ Carey

D I N I NG

ROOM

With Walpole Outdoors, you can create amazing spaces for entertaining, dining, relaxing and enjoying time together. Choose from our inspiring selection of classical, contemporary, and historical designs, or let our designers and artisans customize unique elements that suit your property and express your style. Let us bring your ideal outdoors to life.

S c h e d u l e y o u r f r e e d e s i g n c o n s u l t a t i o n t o d a y. 8 6 6 . 2 1 0 .4 4 5 2 | w a l p o l e o u t d o o r s .c o m

Live Outside Expectations.

WHAT’S NEW

Out of the Box L O O K W H AT ’ S P O P P I N G U P I N T H E G A R D E N T H I S S P R I N G | P RO DU C ED BY MA RY FITZGERA LD

AVIAN LIVING

Birdwatchers will love the low-maintenance Perch birdhouse by Loll Designs. Its modernist architecture is constructed from recycled polyethylene milk jugs and requires no assembly. Available through Design Within Reach, Stamford, Westport, $125, dwr.com.

SIT A SPELL

FLOWERS IN BLOOM

In a weather-friendly sunflower gingham fabric, the Serena & Lily Teak Camp Stool provides the perfect seat to admire the garden. $298, Westport, serenaandlily.com

Richard Smith designed this lush Spring Garden fabric for Madeaux from a watercolor painting. The glazed cotton fabric depicts tulips, anemone, rhododendron and ferns in a large-scale print. Available through John Rosselli & Associates, price upon request, johnrosselli.com, madeaux.com.

may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

WHAT’S NEW

SUN SCREEN

Make a fashion statement and keep the sun out of your eyes with the Aimee hat from Eric Javits. Made from recycled material, the hat is durable, lightweight, packable and blocks 95 percent of the UVA/UVB rays. A rope chinstrap prevents flyaways on windy days. $375, Available through Petticoat Lane, Greenwich, petticoat-lane.com, ericjavits.com.

THE GARDEN GATE

Artisan Sandra Vlock custom designed this gate, incorporating an apple tree motif to pay homage to the pastoral property of its CT home. Madeto-order architectural elements, including decorative gates and sculptural garden screens, can be created in a variety of metal finishes with the option of powder coating to match any specified color. Studio Vlock, price upon request, studiovlock.com.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Pierre Frey’s Les Outils du Jardinier print wallcovering brings the whimsy of the garden indoors. Sold by the 11-yard roll, $198, pierrefrey.com.

FLOWER POWER

Designer and gardening expert Bunny Williams created the Shipman Planter Stand for Ballard Designs. The classic silhouette is constructed of black powder-coated aluminum, dressed with a lattice skirt and a stylized floral medallion. The raised planter box liner lifts out for easy cleaning. $989, ballarddesigns. com.

HARVEST TIME

HERE’S THE BUZZ

Rain or shine, these Golden Bee Garden Boots from Whiteflower Farm have you covered. Sporting a bee motif on the outside and a honeycomb pattern on the inside, the waterproof wellies are made of natural rubber with an adjustable side strap and buckle. $89, Litchfield, whiteflowerfarm.com.

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

A tisket, a tasket—the naturally beautiful rattan basket from Terrain is just right for collecting flowers or vegetables from the garden. $128, shopterrain.com.

WHAT’S NEW

DIGGING FOR DIRT

Garden tools are organized and accessible with the Riverbend Home garden tote. Durable, stain-resistant fabric pockets hold three essential gardener’s tools. $37, riverbendhome.com.

FOLLOW THE SUN

Once used to tell time, sundials track the position of the sun. Today, they serve as decorative garden elements. The Armillary Sundial from Kenneth Lynch & Sons is forged in the U.S. from silicon bronze and embellished with zodiac symbols. Available in three sizes, prices start at $3,900, klynchandsons.com.

LOCALLY YOURS

Plant-based soaps in scents like Chamomile Lavender, Sweet Fennel and Tarragon, and Green Tea Lemon Sage are made by Treefort Naturals in Colchester and sold at New Haven’s Bark & Vine plant shop. Sourcing locally organic ingredients, the soaps are free of synthetic fragrances, dyes or preservatives. $7 each, Bark & Vine, New Haven, barkandvineshop.com.

SUNNY DISPOSITION

Add a pop of orange to your flower bed with the Hudson Grace watering can. Generously sized, it holds two-gallons of water and is equipped with a removable no-leak rose. $42, hudsongracesf.com.

GET GROWING

Handsome and functional, the Howard Garden Planter Table from Reed Smythe & Co features a removable galvanized metal tray, perfect for seed starting and repotting. The bottom shelf is handy for storing garden pots and tools. The iron body will achieve an appealing rust patina over time. $850, reedsmythe.com.

GARDEN VARIETY

Waddling is a handmade lattice traditionally made from woven branches and acts as a decorative border to define areas of the garden. Pennoyer Newman developed a durable resin version that will retain its beauty season after season. Available in a variety of colors, made to order, price upon request, pennoyernewman.com.

may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

DESIGN NOTES

FIELD NOTES Field + Supply has announced its first long-term pop-up at ABC Carpet & Home’s NYC flagship location, running though mid-June. The shop will connect clientele with the Field + Supply makers represented at its bi-annual fair at Hutton Brickyards in Kingston, NY. The marketplace offers an assortment of artisan goods, textiles, furnishings, lighting, tabletop, home décor and decorative accessories, as well as beauty and wellness and epicurean specialties. Connecticut’s own DBO Home will be among the makers. Craft enthusiasts will have an opportunity

to meet the makers through a series of virtual and live events and shop online via ABC Carpet & Home’s e-commerce site. “We are thrilled to collaborate with ABC Carpet & Home to curate a selection of products from Field + Supply partners who share a commitment to beautifully designed, handcrafted products,” notes Field + Supply founder and interior designer Brad Ford. “I have long admired ABC Carpet & Home’s vision and aesthetic, so am honored to work with their team to introduce our vendors’ collections to a wider audience of design lovers.” abchome. com, fieldandsupply.com.

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

GREEN DAY During the pandemic, paper products became priceless commodities. But now that the panic has subsided, it’s time to consider sustainable alternatives to save our planet. Papaya, a femalefounded company, sells reusuable paper towels. One sheet replaces 17 rolls of paper towels for an eco-friendly cleaning solution. Made from allnatural, anti-bacterial, ultra-absorbent compostable materials, a towel can typically last for two to three months. Purchase a single reusable towel in one of the many fun, artist-designed patterns or set up a subscription to switch up your patterns and replenish your supply every few months, so you’ll never run out of paper towels again. papayareusables.com. SEMI-BESPOKE Westport-based stationer Bespoke Designs is offering a new service—the Semi-Bespoke Collection. Invitations are offered by the piece, giving clients the freedom to create a suite that is semi-custom without the custom price tag. Debuting nine designs, including Bohemian, Fall, Modern, Black Tie, Garden, Crest Floral, Summer, Tropical and Whimsical, there are plenty of choices available to personalize party or wedding invitations. Ordering online is simple: go to the Bespoke Designs website to make the selection that fits your needs in terms of style, theme and budget. Clients will receive a digital proof by email a few days later. “We live and breathe celebrations,” says owner and founder Shari Lebowitz. “It’s your story and we’re honored to create something that perfectly captures you.” 5A Sconset Square, Westport, 203-557-6777, bespokedesigns.com.

Bespoke Designs

Eckert Fine Art

CELEBRATING 21 Connecticut resident Eric Forstmann will be the opening artist for Eckert Fine Art’s gallery show season on May 29. The exhibition will focus on new work by the Sharon painter, who has been represented by Jane Eckert for 21 years. Many of the paintings were created in Forstmann’s Torrington studio, only 70 miles from the Mass MoCA gallery. Of Forstmann, gallery owner Jane Eckert says, “Every show we’ve had on Eric surveys the further development of his ideas and common observation. The thread through it all is his attention to detail, light and eyeball realism.” Fortsmann’s still life paintings of everyday objects are shown beside his depictions of Berkshire landscapes painted en plein air. “I’m an eyeball realist,” says Fortsmann. “I look at things as they are and try to do as much justice to the subject as I possibly can by choosing ordinary objects. I force the viewer to look at them through my eyes.” On exhibition, May 29–June 30, Eckert Fine Art Gallery, Mass MoCA, 1315 Mass MoCA Way, N. Adams, MA, 413-3985905, eckertfineart.com. CUTE KICKS Schumacher and woman’s footware brand Margaux have collaborated on a fun collection previewing this May. The six styles include an assortment of mules, ballet flats and sandals sporting flirty and feminine Schumacher fabrics. Margaux’s first-ever sneaker in Shumacher’s Campagne print is so cute you will want to wear it from day into night. The shoes are designed for all-day comfort, crafted in Spain from Italian leather. Available online or at the flagship location, 387 Bleecker St., NYC, 212-627-0536, margauxny.com, fschumacher.com.—Mary Fitzgerald

FIELD + SUPPLY: COURTESY OF ABC CARPET & HOME; ECKERT FINE ART: ERIC FORSTMANN, THE OVERRIPE PEACH LOOKED WISTFULLY TOWARD THE CITY AND BEYOND, KNOWING ITS BEST DAYS HAD PASSED, 2020. OIL ON BOARD, 20 X 22”

DESIGN NOTES

A peek inside the latest buzz-worthy design news happening in the area

See Connecticut's Best Properties 1.

20 Bush Avenue, Greenwich $5,990,000 Web#170378546 Rob Johnson 203.979.2360

6 Captains Walk, Rowayton $3,550,000 Web#170386663

Mike Barbis 203.434.6577

32 Steep Hill Road, Weston $2,495,000 Web #170375715

Mark Gilrain 917.287.2451 Kathleen Gibbon 678.517.8075

19 Brush Island Road, Darien $5,950,000 Web#170381566 Nancy Dauk 203.858.1146

291 Greenley Road, New Canaan $8,000,000 Web#170361179 John Engel 203.247.4700

34 Verplank Avenue, Stamford $1,250,000 Web#170382008 Thaddea Sheridan 203.273.9390

313 Umpawaug Road, Redding $1,199,000 Web # 170384079

Bozena Jablonski 203.807.0012 Susan O’Rourke 203.979.1181

123 Dingletown Road, Greenwich $4,999,000 Web#170355029 Lara Winters 203.832.4206 Rob Johnson 203.979.2360

344 Shore Road, Greenwich $7,675,000 Web#170377669 Christopher Finlay 203.969.5511

10.

343 Wahackme Road, New Canaan $4,325,000 Web#170382755 Dawn Sterner 203.722.7098

Brown Harris Stevens Connecticut, LLC. Licensed in Connecticut. All information is from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. No representation or guaranty is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and other information should be re-confirmed by customer. All rights to content, photographs and graphics reserved to Broker. Equal Housing Opportunity Broker.

MARKETPLACE

TUUCI

Create an outdoor living room with the Tuuci Equinox Cabana. Equipped with all the bells and whistles, including heating, lighting and a motorized louvered roof, the cabana provides all-day comfort. $74,100, special order, available through Seasons Too, Darien, seasonstoo.com, tuuci.com.

OPEN AIR POLICY MAKE THE MOST OF THE SEASON WITH THE LATEST PLEIN-AIR FURNISHINGS

LINK

The Zuma cocktail table from Link’s Malibu collection features a polished marble top set on solid teak. The soft, rounded edges and elliptical profile were inspired by the aerodynamic qualities of surf longboards. Price upon request, available through the Michael Taylor showroom, michaeltaylordesigns.com, D&D, linkoutdoor.com.

PRODUCED BY M A RY F ITZ G E RA L D

JANUS ET CIE

Janus et Cie presents three new colors for its Niwa counter stool: Green Tea, Terracotta and Blue Teal. The seating is formed from durable powder-coated aluminum with a stainless steel footrest. $1,566, available through Elise, New Canaan, elisenursery.com, janusetcie.com.

PALECEK

Suitable for alfresco ambience, the Valencia outdoor lamp from Palecek is the light of the party. The powdercoated metal frame is wrapped in a handwoven synthetic wicker. $1,324, palecek.com.

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

EXPORMIM

Designed by Manel Molina, the Atrivm outdoor table and Blum dining armchairs are engineered for the utmost comfort and elegance, to be used indoors or out. Price upon request, available through West|Out East, Westport, westouteast.com, expormim.com.

MARKETPLACE

GATHER & ENTERTAIN LONGABERGER

Creating a comfortable oasis, the Ronson five-piece sectional from Longaberger is sporty in navy and natural. The set includes two chairs, two ottomans (that can double as extra seating) and a table for poolside drinks. $1,189, longaberger.com.

ROOM & BOARD

The Flet outdoor collection from Room & Board is crafted of polypropylene roping in neutral tones of gray or slate. The ottoman coordinates with the Flet sofa and chairs for a modern look. $399, roomandboard.com.

ETHNICRAFT

Ethnicraft introduces its first collection of outdoor furniture crafted in solid teak. The Teak Circle outdoor dining table and Teak EX1 outdoor dining chair are both designed by Alain van Havre. Table, $2,899; chair, $609, available through Mis En Scene Home, Woodbury, misenscenehome.com, ethnicraft.com.

HENRY HALL DESIGNS

Crossing the threshold from indoor to outdoor, the Domino sofa by Henry Hall Designs is a handsome addition to any space. Italian designer Marco Acerbis incorporates a sophisticated mix of aluminum and teak with stylish fabrics. Price upon request, available through Walters, D&D, waltersnyc. com, henryhalldesigns.com.

HOLLY HUNT

The imprint of the fiberglassreinforced concrete base of Holly Hunt’s Oryx dining table is patterned after the textural quality of an antelope’s horns. The impressive base is coupled and contrasted with a slim stone top. Price upon request, Holly Hunt Off the Floor Showroom, Stamford Waterside Design District, hollyhunt.com.

Inspired by the beauty of a handheld folding fan, designer Ann Marie Vering dreamed up the Pavona collection for RH. The sweeping curves of the armchair are handwoven in all-weather cording and paired with a cushioned seat and back. $573, Greenwich, rh.com.

SERENA & LILY

Taking a cue from the classic barrel back chair, Serena & Lily’s Seabrook outdoor swivel chair offers a 360-degree view and can be customized in a variety of all-weather fabrics. $2,498, Westport, serenaandlily.com.

OOMPH

Just in time for cocktail hour, Oomph suggests the On the Rocks outdoor side table in a powder-coated aluminum. Choose from six colors, including Yankee Navy, shown here. $395, Greenwich, oomphhome.com.

may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

MARKETPLACE

LOUNGE & RELAX

GLOSTER

The ultimate lounge location, Gloster’s Lodge Lounge cabana sports a powder-coated aluminum frame with a slated teak back and roof in a natural finish. $25,910, available through Patio.com, patio.com, gloster.com.

EQ3

AERIN/WILLIAMS SONOMA

Aerin Lauder designed the refined East Hampton collection for Williams Sonoma to reflect the classic style of the fashionable Long Island retreat. The furniture pieces feature braided detailing in weather-resistant resin wicker, wrapped around a sturdy powder-coated aluminum frame. Cushions, sold separately, are covered in easycare performance fabrics. Sofa, $1,395; club chair, $795, coffee table ottoman, $395, avaliable through Williams Sonoma, Westport, williams-sonoma.com, aerin.com.

With an adjustable five-position back, the Cape Outdoor Chaise from EQ3 provides a comfortable respite. Constructed in a lightweight and resilient white aluminum frame, it coordinates with the Cape collection of dining, coffee and side tables and chairs. $549, SoNo Collection, Norwalk, eq3.com.

DEDAR

Relax and unwind in the Loren foldable sling chair from Riverbend Home. Crafted in eucalyptus wood in a natural oiled finish with a chic striped fabric. $248, riverbendhome.com.

FBC LONDON

FBC London offers two great versatile options for side tables—Solis I and Solis II—made from gray and gold polished marble. The modern geometrical form draws inspiration from Roman sundials and stone circles. $7,220 each, D&D, fbc-london.com.

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

DEDAR: ANDREA FERRARI, COURTESY OF DEDAR

RIVERBEND HOME

No boring outdoor fabrics here, Dedar brightens things up with its Campus and Young and Lovely prints. Shown in the Soleil Nocturne colorway, the fabrics are made from performance polypropylene. Price upon request, Stamford Waterside Design District, Stamford, dedar.com.

MARKETPLACE

PIERRE FREY

Designed by Caspari, the tufted Trellis rug from Pierre Frey is made entirely of highperformance outdoor polypropylene fibers. Price upon request, D&D, pierrefrey.com.

ARHAUS

Sink into the relaxed comfort of the Arhaus Porto outdoor armless chair fabricated from weather-resistant, solution-dyed olefin fabric and dense foam padding. The modular pieces can be combined to create a sectional sofa.$1,500, Arhaus, SoNo Collection, Norwalk, arhaus.com.

SUTHERLAND FURNITURE

The Spring 2021 additions to the Vincent Van Duysen collection for Sutherland Furniture include modular pieces with uber-comfortable deep seating for lounging. The Otti sectional chaise features Perennials roping, made of 100-percent solution-dyed acrylic fibers. Price upon request, David Sutherland, D&D, sutherlandfurniture.com.

DESIGN WITHIN REACH

The Scandinavian styling of the low back Fern lounge chair was conceived by Sebastian Herkner for Gloster. Sold through Design Within Reach, the chair’s frame is made of plantation teak and is wrapped in outdoor roping. Cushions are available in a variety of Sunbrella fabrics, shown here in Castillo Putty. $4,500, Westport, Stamford, dwr.com.

ARTEMEST

The bridge set by Villevenete for Artemest pairs a pouf and a coffee table. Made from solid briccola durmast, the table is treated with a clear, natural oil, and the pouf can be upholstered in a range of outdoor fabrics. $6,165, artemest.com.

TOMMY BAHAMA FURNITURE

Architectural lines crafted from sustainably sourced Indonesian teak distinguish the La Jolla chaise lounge by Tommy Bahama Furniture. Performance fabric options range from understated neutrals to bold graphics. $6009, available through Safavieh Home, Norwalk, safavieh.com/retail, tommybahamafurniture.com.

OUTER

The six-seat U sectional from Outer can handle a crowd. Made from Grade-A teak, it’s upholstered in a fade-proof, stainresistant and easy-to-clean fabric. Feel-good note—for every tree harvested for Outer furniture, three more are planted in its place. $9,810, liveouter.com.

may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

MARKETPLACE

FUN & GAMES MOMA

The Mamatoco Rocker is handcrafted in Santa Marta, Colombia for MoMA by artisans employing traditional weaving techniques in the non-traditional material of PVC cording. $595, store.moma.org.

TUPELO

The simple, durable and modern design of the Tupelo Zephyr Flyer tree swing will provide hours of enjoyment in your backyard. Constructed of roto-molded polyethylene and all weather roping, the swing arrives fully assembled with a quick-clip carabiner for installation. $165, tupelogoods.com.

JAMES DE WULF

Suitable for indoor or outdoor use, the backgammon coffee table by James De Wulf is cast from carbon fiber-reinforced concrete, and sealed and waxed for a unique luster. $9,680, jamesdewulf.com.

ELEISH VAN BREEMS

Pappelina’s Marre runner from Eleish Van Breems is woven on a traditional loom with wooden shuttles in Dalarna, Sweden. Made from PVC with reinforced welded edges, the rug is durable enough for outdoor use. $241, Westport, evbantiques.com.

WOODARD

The Belize lounge chair from Woodard is shown here in an open weave in Pacific Blue, for a jolt of color poolside. $1,399, available through Seasons Too, Darien, seasonstoo. com, woodardfurniture.com.

ROCHE BOBOIS

The Trilogie ottoman grouping was designed by Sacha Lakic For Roche Bobois. The fanciful pieces are upholstered in Missoni Home and Sunrise fabrics. $1,700–$2,135, Greenwich, roche-bobois.com.

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

MARKETPLACE

ETHIMO

Poufs designed by Patrick Norguet complement Ethimo’s Swing collection and serve as colorful footrests, extra seating and coffee tables. Slat teak and metal frames are topped with outdoor fabrics. $1,095, available through Walters, D&D, waltersnyc.com, ethimo.com.

SANTA BARBARA

Playful pink polka dots adorn the new Cabana umbrella by Santa Barbara, reminiscent of the poolside umbrellas found in Slim Aaron’s 1968 photo of Acapulco’s La Concha Beach Club. The scalloped valance is embellished with a rose brush fringe. Price upon request, available through Walters, waltersnyc.com, santabarbaradesigns.com.

PAOLA LENTI

Designed by Francesco Rota for ultimate comfort, the Paola Lenti Frame collection is shaped to fit the human body. The chaise lounge can be upholstered in a choice of Paola Lenti signature fabrics, Aquatech braiding or the Twiggy polyolefin material, shown here. Pricing starts at $3,698, seat pads sold separately, available through West|Out East, Westport, westouteast.com, paololenti.it.

MCKINNON AND HARRIS

Channeling the purity of Scandinavian midcentury modernism, McKinnon and Harris’ Couper backless bench is made from a robust aluminum and covered in Petite Nellcote performance fabric in Lily Pad by Schuyler Samperton Textiles. Price upon request, D&D, mckinnonharris.com.

PERENNIALS

Known as a leader in the highperformance textiles industry, Perennials is debuting the Villa del Sol collection this spring. Bringing resort-style living home in ever-popular shades of blue, the collection includes graphic patterns and textural weaves. Price upon request, available through the David Sutherland showroom, D&D, perennialsfabrics.com.

HUDSON GRACE

The classic design of the original butterfly chair never gets old. Created in 1938, it became a modern icon. Hudson Grace presents a fresh version with the French Butterfly chair in a vibrant sunflower yellow. $625, hudsongracesf.com.

BROWN JORDAN OUTDOOR KITCHENS

Get cooking with the modular Elements kitchen from Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens. Designed by Daniel Germani, the cook station is shown here in the new Chili powder-coated finish, one of 13 new colors. Pricing upon request. Wallingford, brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com.

may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

JEWELRY

Spring Bouquet F L O R A L J E W E L R Y, A P E R E N N I A L F A V O R I T E , I S B U R S T I N G T H I S S P R I N G I N D R A M AT I C D E S I G N S . F R O M V I N TA G E T O H I G H J E W E L R Y, T H E S E BOLD BLOOMS WILL THRIVE SEASON AFTER SEASON B Y H A R R I E T M AY S P O W E L L

Buccellati’s 18k white gold cuff set with blue and yellow sapphires. $59,000, special order, Betteridge, Greenwich, betteridge.com.

Asha by Ashley McCormick’s 14k vermeil Garden earring with mother of pearl, pink amethyst, peridot and turquoise. $495, Asha by Ashley McCormick, Greenwich, ashabyadm. com.

Faye Kim’s 18k gold Daisy ring with trillion cut aquamarine and moonstones. $4,800, Faye Kim, Westport., fayekim.com.

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

Tiffany & Co’s Schlumberger© Tulip Necklace in 18k yellow gold and platinum with diamonds from the 2021 Tiffany Blue Book Collection: Colors of Nature. Price upon request, Tiffany & Co., Greenwich, Westport, tiffany.com.

Christopher Thompson Royds’ Forget-Me-Not drop earrings in 18k gold with diamonds. $1,680, Sienna Patti Contemporary, Lenox, MA, shop. siennapatti.com.

A La Vieille Russie’s 1960’s Van Cleef & Arpels 18k gold and diamond open flower brooch with cultured pearl. $18,500, A La Vieille Russie, NYC, alvr.com.

Nam Cho’s 18K white gold, diamond and sapphire flower stud earrings. $8,550, Mitchells, Westport, Greenwich, shop. mitchellstores.com.

may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

DEEDS DON’TS I N S I D E S T O R I E S B E H I N D A R E A R E A L E S TAT E D E A L S

Natural Wonders

very may—after freak frosts ebb and flowers bloom—

we all marvel at just how splendid spring truly is in our state. House shopping gets more fun too, as properties can finally show off their exteriors. Here are six listings that put the “great” in the “great outdoors”—from Sound-side spreads to gracious gardens and even a groovy, circa-1970s A-frame. BEACH ABODES

ur tour kicks off with a circa-1934 southport estate that sits atop Sasco Hill Road and offers sunset views over the harbor and marina. New to the market and listed for $6.5 million, the three-acre grounds were first designed by Agnes Selkirk Clark, celebrated as one of the few professional “lady gardeners” of her era. And her work is spectacular, featuring wide, landscaped steps leading from the house to

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

The View This Southport estate offers sunset vistas over the harbor, Long Island Sound and beyond. It’s offered for $6.5 million by Andrew Whiteley of Al Filippone Associates in Southport. 203-258-1595.

Who is #1? You Are — My Clients and Customers. In the first quarter of 2021, I’ve had more than $70 million deals closed or contracted, including $45 million off-market. With over $1 billion in career transactions, I have the discretion, expertise, and guidance to help you find your place in the world.

Shelly Tretter Lynch Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Founding Member Compass Greenwich shelly.tretterlynch@compass.com M: 203.550.8508 200 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich, CT Compass Connecticut, LLC is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

DEEDS & DON’TS

also a 1,500-bottle wine cellar and a spa-like main bedroom with a glassenclosed tub and shower room and free-standing slipper tub. Michelle & Company lists the property for $11,995,000. GREAT GARDENS

the pool terrace, which she also designed. Below that, the lawns roll all the way down to the water’s edge, where a private dock can be built. It was Agnes’ husband, Cameron Clark, who designed the French-style manor home, while architect Jack Franzen gets credit for its renovated spaces, now measuring nearly 6,000 square feet. It’s offered for $6.5 million by Andrew Whiteley of Al Filippone Associates. Beachside Avenue is one Westport’s most desirable addresses, lined with private, Sound-side estates, many with sandy beaches to call their own. Number 66 Beachside epitomizes the Gold Coast aesthetic with its nearly new (circa-2019), 9,500-square-foot manse. The two-acre grounds feature an expansive pool terrace and fully stocked pavilion with an outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, fireplace, large-screen TV and lounging and dining spaces, as well as a full bathroom and outdoor shower. There’s also a private path that gives access to 300 feet of sandy beachfront. And the interiors are a staycation waiting to happen with next-level fun on the lofty third floor, currently equipped with fitness equipment and a ping-pong table, along with a wet bar and a deck with a hot tub. There’s

Wow Factor Extensive gardens grace this 14-acre Greenwich estate, offered for $30 million by Leslie McElwreath of Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenwich. 917-539-3654.

A IS FOR

AWESOME

Modernist architect Vincent Amore built this gorgeous Guilford abode in 1971 for himself and his family. A true “tiny home,” the A-frame measures just 1,100 square feet. But it’s built on a quarteracre promontory on the water’s edge, with unbroken views of Long Island Sound—from the wraparound deck and nearly every room in the house. Inside, the open-plan main floor centers on a wall of windows and a double-height stone fireplace. There’s also a circular staircase that gives access to the lofty bedroom suite. It lists for $1.5 million with Carol Mancini and Ron Mazzacane of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty in Guilford. 203-710-6405 and 203-494-1111.

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

MIDDLE: STEVE ROSSI FOR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY; BOTTOM: DENNIS CARBO

Spa Day, Every Day This Westport property offers a pool, terrace and pavilion, along with a nearly new 9,500-square-foot home. It lists for $11,995,000 with Michelle & Company in Westport. 203-454-4663.

$30-million greenwich estate offers 14 acres of thoughtful landscaping created by British designer Simon Johnson. The outdoor spaces start with an elaborate front courtyard, featuring maze-like hedges fronting the grand entryway. In back, there’s another gardened terrace, leading to multiple formal “rooms,” allées of ornamental trees, stone paths, water features and a pool and pool house. The main house, with interiors designed by Steven Gambrel, is equally impressive with amenities that include a grand reception hall, a wood-paneled library, a home office, a gym, a billiards room, a wine cellar and a screening room, with plush, tiered seating—and there’s even an orangerie and an indoor pool with floor-toceiling windows. Leslie McElwreath of Sotheby’s International Realty has the listing.

SAVE the DATE

Grandiflora

Garden & Landscape Tour 2021 In-person Virtual

Friday, June 4 10AM-4PM Saturday, June 5 10AM-2PM Brunch in a Box Sunday, June 6 10AM-1PM

GREENWICH BOTANICAL CENTER With grateful appreciation to all our participating sponsors, garden owners and media sponsors TICKETS REQUIRED COVID-19 best practices required

GreenwichBotanicalCenter.org

DEEDS & DON’TS

Well Crafted Architect Robert A.M. Stern designed this Arts & Crafts style Greenwich home. Jennifer Leahy of Douglas Elliman in Greenwich lists the property for $7,095,000. 917-699-2783.

Architect Robert A.M. Stern designed another for-sale Greenwich estate, now listed for $7,095,000. The Arts & Crafts-style home was built for the current owner, with a main floor that features an expansive great room with vaulted, double-height ceilings with exposed beams. The 8,000-square-footinteriors also boast a custom bar, a fully equipped gym, a home theater and a wine cellar. Across the 13-acre spread, the 60-foot-long pool is the star. It’s shaded along one long side by a handsome pergola with a swing and also offers a water feature and a spa. Jennifer Leahy of Douglas Elliman has the listing.

and once a 200-acre property, the circa-1744 Colonial now features a pool with a pergola, a pool house, a three-stall barn and a carriage house with a two-bedroom apartment. The 7,500-square-foot main house has retained loads of antique fixtures including wide-plank Chestnut floors, rustic exposed beams and original fireplaces. In all, there are five bedrooms, with the main suite offering a sleeping porch, three walk-in closets and a spa bathroom. It’s listed for $2,995,000 with Karla Murtaugh of Neumann Real Estate. —Diane di Costanzo

HIS TORIC HOME

here’s a wilton home that’s

so historic it played a part in the Revolutionary War, when British soldiers descended from their raid on Danbury. Luckily for the house, any damage sustained was limited to the theft of several cows, or so the story goes. Called the Keeler Homestead Patriot’s Place This circa-1744 Wilton home, called the Keeler Homestead, played its part in the Revolutionary War. It lists for $2,995,000 with Karla Murtaugh of Neumann Real Estate in Ridgefield. 203-856-5534.

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INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN

GREENWICH

ORRICKANDCOMPANY.COM

437 North St. • Greenwich, CT • (203) 869-3418

NURSERY & GREENHOUSES, LLC

Full Service Garden Center Landscape Design & Installation Premier Garden Care Delivery Services & Curbside Pickup NEW! Online Shopping

www.sambridge.com

WHERE TO BUY NEXT A SPECIAL SECTION

WHETHER IT BE A GETAWAY PAD OR A PERMANENT ABODE.

JUPITER, FLORIDA

136 Bears Club Dr Exceptional 6BR/8.3BA Mediterranean home located in the serene Bear's Club community, beautifully restored in 2010. With 16,360 +/- total square feet, gorgeous flooring, stunning ceiling details, and beautiful finishes throughout, the home exemplifies the highest standards of quality and attention to detail. Interior features include grand living room with double height ceilings, family room with bar and fireplace, and romantic spiral staircase. Phenomenal outdoor spaces perfect for entertaining, with columned loggias, multiple covered and open balconies with gorgeous golf course views, pool front gazebo with fireplace, and summer kitchen with built-in grill. CHRISTIAN J. ANGLE 561.629. 3015 ANGLEREALESTATE.COM @ANGLE_REAL_ESTATE

ST. HELENA ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA

Dataw Island Choosing your next community is an exciting adventure but sifting through the many options can be daunting. Excellent golf? Social activities? Fitness room, swimming pools, spa treatments? Yes, yes, yes! The best way to truly evaluate a community is through its residents. Members of Dataw Island were asked what it is they so adore about their community, and the responses were overwhelming. Denise Sullivan said “every day feels as though you have hit a hole-in-one.” “It’s not just a place to live — Dataw Island is a real caring community” shared Joell Newton. And, Chris Dedel stated “It’s a beautiful, peaceful, friendly way of life that you will never regret choosing.” It is clear the members at Dataw Island are in love with this charming slice of paradise. Summing it up nicely, member Lee Sacosky said, “It’s the life you always dreamed of! Dataw Island, 15 minutes from Historic Beaufort, South Carolina, and 15 minutes to the beach, has been voted “Best Neighborhood” and “Best Golf Community”; shortlist this community and visit now. 843.838. 3838 DATAW.COM @DATAWISLAND

FOLLOW ALONG @COTTAGESGARDENS

#CGXWHERETOBUYNEXT

Shelly and Marybeth are excited to announce the official launch of Compass Nantucket. With the combination of their waterfront & coastal living expertise, deep island roots and ability to transact, they can continue to offer their dedication to all of your luxury real estate needs. Looking to buy, rent or sell? Let us help you find your place in the world.

Shelly Tretter Lynch Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Founding Member Compass Greenwich shelly.tretterlynch@compass.com M: 203.550.8508 200 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich, CT

Marybeth Gilmartin-Baugher Licensed Real Estate Salesperson CT & MA marybeth.gilmartin@compass.com M: 917.561.5995

Compass Connecticut, LLC is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

Holly Matteson Pagon Photography

From Long Island Sound to Nantucket Sound.

MAY

KINDRA CLINEFF

CONNECTICUT COTTAGES & GARDENS

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A Cut Above In the parterre that feels more like a park than a home garden, George Anthony Jones filled the clipped boxwood hedges with ‘Matrona’ sedums. See Resources.

FROM INTRICATE DETAILS TO THE SUMPTUOUS SETTING, PLANTSVILLE PINES IS CONCEIVED FROM SCRATCH

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PERSONAL

MASTERPIECE BY TOVAH MARTIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KINDRA CLINEFF

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Long On Lushness When asked to host a wedding, Jones whipped up a sunken garden spilling with sedums and other succulents within a crisscross of leftover boxwood from the upper parterre. See Resources.

MOVE OVER VERSAILLES, STEP ASIDE BILTMORE ESTATE AND LONGWOOD GARDENS, BECAUSE YOU HAVE SERIOUS COMPETITION. Fact is, Plantsville Pines can compare favorably with the swankest gardens here and abroad. But the amazing aspect of this Connecticut opus is not only the splendor of the plantings, but even more impressive is the reality that this garden is achieved by nonprofessionals and primarily populated by plants grown from seeds and cuttings. All the work and the entire vision is the brilliance of the owner. The fact that George Anthony Jones is an armchair traveler has a lot to do with the look. Although he has never been abroad, Jones spent many winters vicariously visiting landscapes throughout the world. That’s how formal parterres landed on his wish list when he first moved to Plantsville in 2001 to build a house on three acres. Former partner Dean Del Giudice helped develop the landscape as it evolved through a series of smart moves. For example, before excavating equipment left the property after digging the house foundation, the machinery operators were asked to add 300 holes in the garden. Those conveniently accomplished cavities were then filled with trees to surround, define and shelter the future garden. Between spates working on the house, Jones began a border that received plants brought from his former garden. Meanwhile, he sowed seeds and propagated cuttings for future spaces. When the time came to realize his dream of a parterre, he coaxed 400 tiny boxwood starters into shape. That was the easy part. may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

Barely Contained (clockwise across spread from opposite page) Jones’s container style is to plant densely and let succulents (like echeverias and sedums shown) spill over. The garden-room pavilion was found at the Big E and given a cupola and arbor to command the sunken garden. An antique cast iron urn spills with Sedum sieboldii and silver dichondra. Sedums swoop over the edge of a container accented by succulent Graptoveria ‘Fred Ives.’ See Resources.

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Flowing Over (this page clockwise from top) The newest addition to the Plantsville opus is a circular garden with a sitting wall supporting contained specimens to frame the steps. Agaves provide a strong architectural statement softened by a trailing pilea. Hardy Sedum ‘Bertram Anderson’ is housed in a container for its colorful display. Jones combined kalanchoe, echeveria, sedum and several other succulents to create a grand finale container. Lively Mix (opposite page) A lavish container of Aptenia cordifolia and Senecio serpens balances out a bistro table and chairs in the sunken garden. See Resources.

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Dexterity with getting all things agricultural done could be traced to his mother, Violet Jones—a former florist who grew her own crops with George by her side. She now helps him meticulously maintain Plantsville Pines. Among the many skills learned from his mother, Jones mastered the art of overwintering plants, which feeds into his most recent feats of fancy footwork—because additions are always on the horizon. For a family wedding, the parterre received an additional terrace spilling with tender succulents cascading from urns. After the ceremony had come and gone, he finessed that space into a Mediterranean motif. After accomplishing that little achievement, his current deep dive focuses on creating a spherical garden with a sitting wall holding a gallery of truly inspired potted creations. California gardens can often achieve this sort of ambiance, but you rarely find anything comparable on the East Coast due to a growing season that cannot support the tender succulents to make it happen. Jones’ little secret to sustaining suc-

culents in New England is a basement light system plus a sunroom to host the non-hardy inventory during winter. Basically, wherever grass dwells, Jones can think of something a whole lot more creative to fill that space. And wherever he plants, gazebos, pergolas, fountains and other focal points give further depth and personality. Again, his carpentry skills come in handy. But he is also genius with retrofitting found objects to reflect the right sense of swank to create the mood. As for the art installation–worthy containers, Jones loosely follows the spiller, filler, thriller formula. But the color palette and textural interplay is so carefully composed that it all knits together. Every container is a masterpiece, or it is reworked. And then it is woven into a backdrop of sheer agricultural opulence. He patiently hunts just the right vine or tree to fit the niche. And if the perfect plant is not readily available, he finds something right and roots or sprouts it. At Plantsville Pines, divide and conquer is a way of life. ✹ may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

A Patterned Advance

A SERIES OF OUTDOOR ROOMS PROGRESS FROM REFINED TO PASTORAL SPACES BY DAVID MASELLO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARYN B. DAVIS

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fertile ground is often backed by a fertile mind.

Dedicated gardeners know that just as their garden continues to grow, so too, do their ideas for improving it. When East Lyme–based landscape designer Drew Kenny of Outdoor Lifestyles meets with his client at her property along the Connecticut River in Lyme, the two are filled with ideas for new plantings and ways to furnish the outdoor rooms on the 10-acre site. More than 10 years ago, Kenny began working on the property when he designed the pool and pool house—a whimsical but practical hexagonal structure that he and the homeowner dubbed the “Birdhouse.” “We immediately developed a good working relationship,” says Kenny, “and we started planning for everything from timbers to stones to terracing.” Since then, he and the homeowner have managed to both tame nature and allow it to run wild. As Kenny describes his work on the land, “The further away from the house you get, the more pastoral and wooded the site becomes, while closer to the house, the more refined become the plantings, landscaping and hardscaping.” Indeed, on a clearing out by the river, a meadow has been left to grow and flourish along the bank, while steps from the main rooms of the 1748 house, one enters dedicated outdoor rooms, well-furnished spaces that evidence the

Poolside Perch (left) The hexagonal structure by the pool is dubbed the “Birdhouse” and is often used for casual dinners. McKinnon and Harris chaises and chairs invite lounging.

Grassy Knoll (top) A pair of Adirondack chairs through AuthenTeak have been positioned as front-row seats to observe the Connecticut River. See Resources.

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Verdant Spaces (clockwise across spread from opposite page) An arched gateway grows with New Dawn roses on the fence and Cecile Brunner varieties on the arbor; the birdhouse is from the R.J. Vickers Herbery. A Barlow Tyrie teak bench, along with an antique English sundial from the New England Garden Company, complete a parterre. A knot garden composed of holly and boxwoods runs along the edge of the parterre. All stonework on the property was done by Trowbridge Masonry. A boxwood-lined path leads to the pool. See Resources.

same care shown the rooms within. “While we work very closely together on the outdoor elements, the homeowner makes all the furniture choices,” Kenny stresses. “We take the best ideas of each other. She knows what she likes, I know her style, she has an exceptional eye, and, so, it becomes very much a collaboration. And for a designer, collaboration is fun.” Among the most striking outdoor rooms is a circular parterre, accessed via pea-stone pathways lined with low boxwood borders. The center area is defined by an antique English sundial, ringed with boxwood and an apron of ivy, with the whole of the space viewable from a bench beneath an arbor, thick in the

season with wisteria. “The essence of a parterre is about looking into the space from different perspectives,” explains Kenny, “instead of it being a place to occupy.” The designer created additional visual drama in the space by configuring a knot garden of intertwining holly and boxwood hedges, the sinuous course of which parallels a low stone border wall. In season, outdoor terraces meld indoor and outdoor life. A newly configured breakfast garden, outside the kitchen door, is equipped with a table and chairs, the furnishings positioned to capture morning sun. A dining terrace, shaded by a pergola with a striped awning, and ringed by boxwoods and rhododendron may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

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Outdoor Dining The dining terrace is decorated with Eugenia topiary, hydrangeas, and boxwoods in planters, underplanted with variegated ivy and bacopa annuals; rhododendron bushes are positioned (in the foreground) with ferns and wisteria. See Resources.

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Room To Grow (clockwise across spread from top left) An outdoor seating area features an antique iron table plus a sofa and chair from Terrain. At 250 years old, this sugar maple may be the oldest in the state. A potting shed anchors one end of the vegetable garden; the teak tuteurs are custom built. An existing red barn on the property serves as an office; a dwarf Alberta spruce is planted in the barrel. A breakfast terrace, just off the kitchen, is furnished with a table and chairs from McKinnon and Harris. See Resources.

hedges and planters, has the feel of a sheltered room. Some of the outdoor areas Kenny designed can, indeed, be wholly occupied, including the Birdhouse, which serves as a casual indoor poolside dining area, as well as changing cabana. A cozy potting shed, topped with a steeped roof, lies at the end of a vegetable garden defined by latticed cedar fencing. Since nature never takes a rest—certainly from growing—neither Kenny nor the homeowner seem content to accept that their work on any part of the land is finished. However, while planting areas are always being groomed or refurnished, a centuries-old sugar maple tree on the property remains untouched. 70

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“That tree,” Kenny notes, “is competing with another tree in Connecticut for the oldest sugar maple in the state. This one might be the champion.” In choosing the shrubs, trees and flowers, Kenny seeks plantings with intriguing shapes that reinforce the function of the spaces in which they are placed. “We used potted plants and annuals to create colors and details for seasonal aspects and evergreens because they remain interesting for four seasons.” He emphasizes, too, “I don’t want anything in the garden to diminish the character of the house itself. There’s a lot of history in that house and on this property and it would be a shame to take anything away from that beauty and legacy.” ✹

A GARDEN PARTY BY PREEMINENT HOSTESS STEPHANIE BOOTH SHAFRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE INGALLS | STYLING BY STEPHEN PAPPAS

Palette Pleasing Stephanie Booth Shafran (this page) wears an Oscar de la Renta dress in a color scheme that complements the floral arrangements and overall palette of the event. Dinner—served at a table (opposite page) in her garden—was a thank-you to the ODLR team for supporting her recent book release. See Resources.

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Outdoor Elan (clockwise across spread from this

page) Surrounded by natural beauty, the table centerpiece includes purple and pink floral arrangements around a William Yeoward purple hurricane. Roses bloom in Shafran’s garden. Hanging glass globe terrariums are from Save-On-Crafts. In her book, You’re Invited, Shafran shares tips on planning and giving parties at home. See Resources.

STEPHANIE BOOTH SHAFRAN—the great-great-granddaughter of The Los Angeles Times publisher Harrison Gray Otis—grew up in a home where her parents, Dorothy and Otis Booth, habitually entertained a wide circle of friends. Shafran has translated her own lifelong passion for decorating, interiors, architecture, gardens, fashion and travel into developing beautiful, tasteful events for family, friends and charities. When Shafran’s book, You’re Invited: Classic, Elegant Entertaining (Rizzoli, 2020), was published, she received some extra support from one of her favorite designers, Oscar de la Renta. The ODLR team hosted parties for her in stores and even created a custom slipcase for the book in a blue-and-white toile— one of the late designer’s historic fabrics. As a thank you, Shafran invited the team to an intimate dinner party in her garden at her home in L.A. The entire evening was designed as a nod to the great designer. In homage to the fashion house’s recent bright floral designs, Shafran adorned the table with bold pink peonies, deep purple sweet peas, hyacinths and magenta anemones.

WHAT’S BEHIND YOUR PASSION FOR ENTERTAINING? For me, entertaining is creative expression, every bit as inventive as decorating and designing. I live in a visual world where I am constantly dreaming about fabrics, colors, architecture, gardens and fashion. Hosting parties brings me joy from the second an event is on the calendar to the moment the last guest walks out the door; I adore creating memories for my family and friends to share. WHY DID YOU HOST THE ODLR GARDEN PARTY? I’m so grateful that they were so supportive of my book and that the team made the custom slipcover in a blue-and-white toile that’s carried in all of his stores. The intention of the party was to be a post-production thank-you and have them over for cocktails and dinner in my garden. It was a beautiful summer evening and very intimate. HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON THE PALETTE FOR THE TABLE? The black-and-white toile tablecloth was a play on the custom book cover. Plus, black and white is always classic—just like ODLR. I chose bright bold colors for the flowers—bright pink peonies, deep purple sweet peas, hyacinths and anemones—because the fashion house has used a lot of florals and color in recent designs. The dark purple William Yeoward hurricane and glasses, plus the red radicchio in the tuna, also complement the flowers. HOW ABOUT THOSE BEAUTIFUL PLATES? They are Herend Rothschild plates that I grew up with and inherited from my mother. The Haviland chargers pull in the green from the garden.

WHAT WAS ON THE MENU? We started with colorful blackberry Kir Royale cocktails and cheese toasts, which is an old family recipe. Then we served a light summer dinner with tuna tartare and chicken paillard, followed by chocolate mousse for dessert. DO YOU HAVE SOME TIPS ON LIGHTING A GARDEN PARTY? Lighting is one of the many details that makes a difference—it is key to creating atmosphere. I feel that soft lighting is more flattering to guests, but I always make sure that everyone can easily enjoy their dinner. I do large hurricanes for path lighting and to create defined spaces. Lots of votives on a table help create ambiance, and I love the clear balls of lights for trees. WHAT’S YOUR BEST ADVICE ON HOSTING A PARTY? Over the years, I’ve learned that parties aren’t about perfection. Snafus are what bring humor and authenticity to the moment. The magic comes when you have created a setting where beauty can unfold. I’m not just referring to literal beauty (the tabletop décor, the photogenic hors d’oeuvre) but the intangible— the laughter and friendship shared. After all these years, I finally know why my parents loved entertaining, and I love carrying on the tradition!

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In The Details (clockwise across spread from top left) Tabletop elements include monogrammed Sharon Blond cocktail napkins. Cheese toasts are served on a Herend Rothschild platter and orange Raynaud plate; blackberry Kir Royale cocktails are served on a Christofle silver tray. Fresh flowers elevate any occasion. This cheese toast recipe is a favorite of Stephanie Booth Shafran. The Oscar de la Renta team created a custom book cover in a blue-andwhite toile. See Resources.

CHEESE TOAST HORS D’OEUVRE INGREDIENTS 1/3 cup chopped Swiss cheese 1/3 cup chopped white cheddar cheese 1/3 cup finely chopped white onion 4 tablespoons mayo (enough to bind mixture) Salt and pepper to taste 6 slices of lightly toasted white bread, cut into bite-sized rounds METHOD > Preheat oven to 400 degrees convection. > Mix cheese, onion, mayo, salt, pepper until combined. > Line baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. > Dollop heaping tablespoon on each bread round and bake in upper third section of oven for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown. > Let cool 3 minutes before serving. GARNISH OPTIONS Top with chopped chive, grated Parmesan or chopped parsley.

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Perfect Setting (clockwise across spread from opposite page) Tuna tartare was served as an appetizer on Herend Rothschild plates, which are partnered with green Haviland chargers and bread-and-butter plates. Julian Mejia napkins complement the tablecloth, which is crafted from a Stroheim and Romann black-andwhite toile. Floral arrangements included anemones, sweet peas, hyacinths and peonies. The main course of the evening was chicken paillard. See Resources.

REMAINING TRUE TO ITS ROOTS, STONEBROOK REVERBERATES WITH ECHOES OF ITS CREATOR ALICE DELAMAR

STILL WATERS BY SUSAN TAMULEVICH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEIL LANDINO JR.

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Private Entrance (this spread) A secret stair leads from a door in the basement to the waters outdoors.

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Commanding Vista (opposite page) The Majors rebuilt the pool “down to the rebar” being careful to duplicate its original design. On summer nights, they can hear the gurgle of water spouts at the pool’s four corners from the master bedroom. Grand Approach (top) Sugar maples arch above the main drive to the house. See Resources.

N MOST SEASONS, you’d be struck by the swimming pool. But in May, it’s the peonies. Glenn Major grew up in Weston and this place had always been a favorite. Fourteen years ago, he brought his wife, Elise, to Stonebrook as “hundreds of peonies were blooming.” While visiting, then owners Bernice and Walter Erickson let on they were about to put the estate on the market. “Well, why aren’t we buying this?” Elise asked once the couple got back in their car. And that was that. A labor of love, Glenn took on the weekend mantle of gardener. The previous owners had maintained the gardens, but things were looking worn. In fact, according to Glenn, the garden’s creator, Alice DeLamar, had kept the place “pretty rough.” It was a country home away from her Park Avenue apartment, Palm Beach mansion and Paris townhouse. With the Majors’ addition of a front walk, two eight-foot white marble urns, and box-bordered gardens, they note: “She’d probably say we made it too formal.” To understand that comment, you must know something about Miss DeLamar. In 1921, a Washington Times article described her: “Miss Alice DeLamar, daughter of the late Captain Joseph Raphael DeLamar, is probably the most interesting heiress in America. Where other girls in her position would have lolled back and let themselves be run by advisors, guardians, and so on, Miss DeLamar has run herself with increasing ability and success since the early age of three. At that time, just twenty-three years ago—papa may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

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Exquisite Stonework (opposite page) The stone used to form terraces, retaining walls, and a grotto was mined onsite. Hydrangeas bloom alongside the pool. Dreamscape (top) Homeowner Glenn Major’s parents purchased the two towering eight-foot carved marble urns from a convent in Noroton. See Resources.

and mamma DeLamar had an unfortunate disagreement which resulted in the courts divorcing them and handing little Alice over to her father. But papa DeLamar was a very busy man and his mamma-less daughter was faced with the usual prospect of being run by nurses, governesses, teachers, and so forth. Before long she rebelled. Papa DeLamar saw in the baby the same independence and revolt at restraint that had made him run away from his own home when only eight and gave orders that Miss Alice was to have her own way in everything.” Alice attended the Spence School then enlisted in the Red Cross Motor Corps, bringing wounded soldiers home from the battlefields. At age 23, she inherited $10 million (adjusted for inflation, that’s about $154 million today). Smart and capable, yet shy and reserved, she went on to create her own family. Art connoisseurs Bernard and Mary Berenson became her “uncle and aunt.” She spent summers with them in Florence studying art and mixing with the likes of landscape architect Cecil Pinsent, a favorite designer of Anglo-Fiorenzian ex-patriots. In the 1930s she built Stonebrook. The Italian estates she visited with Pinsent and the Berensons had many things in common with this Weston garden: They were true to the place and the vernacular, often sited on a hillside. The gardens made creative use of native stone and celebrated the life-giving mystique of water. At Stonebrook, Alice built a pool four times the usual size. She shared this luxury with friends and neighbors. However, Alice reserved it for herself, alone, on summer afternoons from one to three. may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

Hillside Terrace (this page) A line of hydrangea and large kousa dogwood border an upper terrace. The cast-iron Whippets were Alice DeLamar’s. Formal Beds (opposite page) Glenn Major formalized these beds with box edging, nepeta and roses. Landscape design is by Green Acres Landscape & Design. Peonies from Alice’s original plants were revived, and divisions of these plants now are a popular charity donation item. See Resources.

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Cropping Up (opposite page) Garden artifacts can be discovered throughout the vegetable plots. There are no fences on the property, so Glenn religiously sprays with Liquid Fence every two weeks between April and July, and once a month thereafter to keep deer at bay. Garden Bounty (top) The Majors’ son built the A-frame when in high school. It’s strung with kite string to support indeterminate tomatoes. The kousa dogwood came from a plant at the Majors’ previous home. See Resources.

With taste, broad learning, and sensitivity to others, Alice became a great anonymous patron of the arts. One beneficiary was Alice’s lover, the actress Eva La Gallienne, whose Manhattan Civic Repertory Theatre she supported for six decades. She helped fund Mercedes de Acosta’s plays, the Surrealist magazine View, and Isamu Noguchi’s studio. Choreographer George Balanchine lived for many years in a house on Alice’s Weston property. Dave Brubeck’s jazz band practiced in her barns. Salvador Dali came for lunch. In 1969 Alice gave part of the estate, the 21-acre Stonebridge Waterfowl Preserve, to the Aspetuck Land Trust. And, upon her death in 1983, donations were made to the Weston Library for 7,000 books and to build a children’s room. The Majors carry on Alice’s charitable tradition, hosting fundraisers and making the garden available to the public on garden tours. “It’s still,” says Elise, “a wonderful place to give a party.” ✹ may 2021 cottagesgardens.com ctc&g

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RESOURCES

Resources & More… H E R E ’ S W H E R E T O F I N D T H E D E S I G N P R O F E S S I O N A L S A N D P R O D U C T S F E AT U R E D I N T H I S I S S U E

fabric, Stroheim. Napkins, Julian Mejia. Birdcage and monogrammed cocktail napkins, Sharyn Blond Linens. China and salt and pepper shakers, Herend. Green chargers and bread and butter plates, Haviland. Hurricane and crystal glassware, William Yeoward. Hobnail votives, Lalique. Silver tray, Christofle. Orange bread and butter plates on cocktail table, Raynaud. Hanging glass globe terrariums, Saveoncrafts. Dress, Oscar de la Renta. STILL WATERS

Pages 80–89: Landscape design, Green Acres Landscape & Design, LLC, getgreenacreslandscaping.com. Pool maintenance, Perry Pools, perrypoolsct.com.

SOURCE LIST

PERSONAL MASTERPIECE

CARYN B DAVIS

Pages 56–63: Containers, and urns, Brimfield Flea Market. Metal table, Smith & Hawken. Plant material, Stonehedge Landscaping & Garden Center, Shakespeare’s Garden, and The Garden Barn. Tree service, Holcomb Tree. A PATTERNED ADVANCE

Pages 64–71: Landscape design, Drew J. Kenny, Outdoor Lifestyles,

outdoorlifestylesct.com. Architect, Brooke Girty Design, brookegirtydesign. com. General contractor, Chris Caulfield, Caulfield & Ridgway, caulfieldridgway. com. Interior design, Cathy Kincaid Interiors, cathy-kincaid.com. Stonework, Trowbridge Masonry. Plant materials, Ballek’s Garden Center and Riggio’s. Poolside area: Chaise lounges and chairs, McKinnon and Harris. Grounds: Adirondack chairs, AutenTeak.

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.

Birdhouse, R.J. Vickers Herbery. Parterre garden: Teak bench, Barlow Tyrie. Sundial, New England Garden Company. Outdoor seating area: Sofa and chairs, Terrain. Breakfast terrace: Table and chairs, McKinnon and Harris. TIMELESS ELEGANCE

Pages 72–79: Tabletop design, Stephanie Booth Shafran, stephanieboothshafran.com. Toile

AuthenTeak, authenteak.com Ballek’s Garden Center, balleksgardencenter.org Barlow Tyrie, barlowtyrieatgardensite. co.uk Brimfield Flea Market, brimfieldantiquefleamarket.com Christofle, christofle.com Haviland, haviland.fr Herend, herendusa.com Holcomb Tree, holcombtreeinc.com Julian Mejia Design, julianmejiadesign. com Lalique, lalique.com McKinnon and Harris, mckinnonharris. com New England Garden Company, negarden.com Oscar de la Renta, oscardelarenta.com R.J. Vickers Herbery LLC, rjvickersherbery.com Raynaud, raynaud-shop.com Riggio’s, riggiosgardencenter.com Saveoncrafts, save-on-crafts.com Shakepeare’s Garden, shakespearesgarden.net Sharyn Blond Linens, sharynblondlinens. com Smith & Hawken (see Target) Stonehedge Landscaping & Garden Center, stonehedgelandscapingco.com Stroheim, fabricut.com Target, target.com Terrain, shopterrain.com The Garden Barn, gardenbarn.com Trowbridge Masonry, 860-434-3368 William Yeoward, williamyeowardcrystal. com

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K ER RY DELR OSE

JOEB MOORE L AU R A BOHN

CALL for ENTRIES G E T YO U R P R OJ E C T IN FRONT OF THIS E S T E E M E D PA N E L O F I N D U S T RY G R E AT S

FRANCES PA L M E R GILES S U T TO N

YO U N G HUH

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southport garden stroll A Fundraiser for Pequot Library TICKETS: pequotlibrary.org/GardenStroll

champagne & canapé kick-off

PEQUOT LIBRARY

COFFEE & CONVERSATION

SOUTHPORT GARDEN STROLL

Sponsored by Sturges Ridge of Fair�eld

Sponsored by Jaguar / Land Rover Fair�eld

One of Pequot Library's Signature Fundraisers

Thursday, June 3 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $150 each

Friday, June 4 9:00 a.m. Tickets: $20 each

Friday, June 4 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Tickets: $30 each

Enjoy an intimate evening with author and celebrated ceramist Christopher Spitzmiller.

Savor light refreshments and explore regenerative agriculture with Sefra Alexandra.

Discover Southport's finest private gardens on a self-guided tour beginning on Pequot's Great Lawn.

720 Pequot Avenue Southport, CT 06890 pequotlibrary.org 203.259.0346

�ank you to our sponsors!

PREMIER EVENT sponsor

AVERY & DASH A pair of circa 1920s French crackle-glaze covered urns. Call for more information. 203.325.8070 averydash.com @averyanddash

SANTA BARBARA UMBRELLA ®

Inspired by the iconic yellow umbrella in Slim Aarons’ famous Poolside Gossip photo, this Double Decker® in Cabana Yellow Stripe with the new PS Modern valance is sure to get people talking. Crafted in California. 800.919.9464 / santabarbaradesigns.com @sbumbrella

DESIGN STOPS MUST-HAVES FOR THE DESIGN-OBSESSED SHOPPER

F O L LOW U S @ C OT TAG E S G A R D E N S / S P E C I A L P R O M OT I O N

MEET THE DESIGNER

Janice Parker Growing up in New York City’s Greenwich Village, Janice Parker sought out urban green spaces. “I loved parks and I knew every tree along the West Side Highway,” she says. After working in florist shops, studying at Parsons, and in England with garden expert John Brooke, she set out on her own, locating in Connecticut for its ease of commuting. Wife of an agricultural businessman and mother of two grown sons, she draws, writes and contributes to public works, including the glorious planting of blossoming cherry and crabapple trees along New York City’s rivers for Bette Midler’s Restoration Project. Her 2017 book, Designing a Vision, remains a popular compilation of case studies, anecdotes, diagrams, illustrations, insight, and visual aids from a landscaper who appreciates the transitory nature of gardening. “It gives me faith to constantly recognize that it’s cyclical. Not being in control helps me accept inevitable loss and change. It’s spiritual,” she adds.

What engages people in a landscape? A strong design has the sense of a room: you know how to enter, travel through it, and leave. There are views or a gorgeous plant as focal points. And there must be somewhere to sit when you get there. Empty rooms are strange, and it’s the same with patios and terraces; they have to have furniture to be occupied.

Beckoning Pathways (top and left) A signature “dragon’s tooth” stepping stone path leads to a pool surrounded by perennial beds and flowering apple trees. A Claude Lalane apple sculpture is supported by a step wall which matches the home’s stone work.

What’s the biggest challenge with clients? I wish they knew patience and had the trust and love of nature to expect and accept the changes that come in the garden. What role do trees play in design? They are the framework of the garden. Evergreens are there 12 months of the year, and others have beautiful barks and branch structures. Even in winter, beautiful Japanese maple branches glow iridescent red, and white birch is incredible against deep evergreens. Why your passion for trees? Trees are incredibly soulful because of how long they live, and if you look carefully, they can tell so many stories. A house on a lot that has been cleared has almost no character. What’s the difference between public and private gardens? Public spaces have to meet the

ctc&g cottagesgardens.com may 2021

requirements of health, safety and welfare, including accessibility, shade, easy flow and circulation. There’s more freedom when catering to the specific needs and desires of private gardens: no railing on stairs, higher walls, narrow paths, subtle lighting. How do you accommodate “green” awareness? We try to put the right plant in the right place, use compost and less fertilizer, water just for growth. Selected and properly planted plants establish themselves. What has been an effect of the pandemic? All of a sudden, outside was deemed much safer, no longer the place for sunburn and bug bites. Backyards and fire escapes became the ‘world,’ and people loved it. I was getting calls from people who had never gardened, who wanted to know how to plant vegetables and flowers.

A pair of Felco pruning shears is your favorite garden tool. What’s your favorite foliage? Southern magnolia leaves are glossy green on one side and velvet brown underneath, you can’t get better than that. They’re hardy and I use them as evergreens. What was your 2021 New Year’s resolution? More roses. They are such good flowers, non-stop blossoms, disease free, the more you learn their history and background, every rose is a fascinating story. What is special about gardening in Connecticut? Rocks. There is so much ledge and swamp and wetlands, lots of grade changes and the possibility of lots of good views. It’s a very gentle topography, like foothills, and it reminds me of my work back in England. You’ve worked with Robert Redford and Bette Midler. Who’s a celebrity client you’d like? Lady Gaga! I’d love to match her outfits; she’s so creative and visual it would be fun to create with her. —Sharon King Hoge

PORTRAIT: SANDRINE LEE; ALL OTHERS: NEIL LANDINO JR.

Why do you want clients to feel as if they’re on vacation? We ask people about their favorite places, and we want to design a place where they can have an ‘aha!’ moment, forget what happened during the day and relax, a sanctuary.

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Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by equal housing opportunity laws.

Darien | Greenwich | New Canaan Stamford | Westport Coming Soon: Fairfield

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ARTEMIS landscape architects www.artemisLA.com

Connecting You With Nature

203.683.1808