HOME North/South by HAN Network

HOME A Hersam Acorn Special Section

April 2010 New Canaan Kitchen Tour Designs For Modern Families

Color Me Delighted Cozying Up To Painter’s Palette

Greenwich Post • The Darien Times • New Canaan Advertiser • The Ridgefield Press • The Wilton Bulletin • The Weston Forum • The Redding Pilot • The Lewisboro Ledger

��

com UnitedHouseWrecking.

�� CLOSED GOOD FRIDAY & EASTER SUNDAY

O P E N 7 DAY S

�� 2

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

203-348-5371

April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

■

INTO I THE I GARDEN ■

A border of flowers ... save some as salad fixings by Sarah Landis

Sarah Landis photos

Peach Melba nasturtiums add color to your garden as well as to your plate.

My favorite present I received last year wasn’t an expensive piece of jewelry or one of the many things I not-so-subtly hinted to my husband that I would like. It arrived one chilly day in April with nary a giftgiving holiday or birthday in sight: seeds. Not just any seeds, a collection of seeds for edible flowers. I have a good-sized garden with four six-foot by 10-foot raised beds protected by a pair of motion-sensor water sprayers, which keep our abundant wildlife at bay. Bordering a nature preserve has its bonuses, but all those bunnies, deer, raccoons and the plethora of chipmunks and squirrels are a gardener’s nightmare. So my

garden is prime real estate, but I wouldn’t have to give up an inch of my vegetablegrowing space. I could tuck these flowers right in front of my house along my front walk without worry about nibbling vermin. I was feeling exuberantly optimistic, for who but an optimist would plant a seed smaller than a piece of sweater lint with the full belief that it would not only grow into a plant but produce beautiful flowers that you could eat! And grow these seeds did. Within a couple weeks I had small bachelor’s buttons, borage, calendula, marigold, Johnny-jump-up viola and nasturtium plants. (I also grew the dianthus

� � 4

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

When planting the perennial herb lemon verbena, be sure to allow plenty of growing space.

seeds that came with the collection, but the animals snacked on them.) After setting the seedlings outside for a few hours several days in a row, I planted them outside along with an assortment of herbs. All summer long my, daughter and son, then six and eight years old, plucked fresh flowers and herbs to add to lettuce from our garden for beautiful gourmet salads. We had flower taste tests – the mild and dainty borage flowers won hands down. We adorned our confections, from individual molten-chocolate lava cakes and lemon bars to ice cream, with the flowers. We had so many flowers that we couldn’t keep up with them, letting some go to seed and preserving some in my daughter’s flower press. It was an abundant summer. Looking ahead this year, I will definitely be planting more edible flowers. And now that I’m beyond thinking of them as rare indulgences, as you would if you paid $5 for a tiny clear plastic box of them at the supermarket, I’m wondering what the spicy nasturtium flowers would taste like cooked, perhaps with some arugula. And wouldn’t calendula petals, known for their skin-soothing properties, be lovely in homemade soap? Now that I know about storing herbs by making herb butter, I’m thinking about butter with flower petals. I recently found out that bee balm, which I have planted around a rock outApril 2010

cropping in my back yard, has edible flowers and I’m looking forward to tasting them. But this relative of mint spreads, so keep it isolated and away from other plantings. I’ll be planting more herbs into my landscaping again. Basil, parsley and cilantro are a given, and this year I’ll stagger my cilantro plantings by several weeks so I have a continuous supply all summer. I’ll move my dill out of the garden to the front walk and try starting Russian tarragon and cumin from seed again – after a crop failure last year – this time being more precise while propagating the seeds. And I’ll try growing sage, thyme and chives from seed and see whether they survive our animal onslaught. My perennial herbs, oregano and lemon verbena, are lush bush-like plants now. I’m looking forward to trying a new recipe for verbena ice cream. And with oregano’s natural anti-bacterial, anti-viral and general insect-repelling properties, I’d like to incorporate some more plants close to my house. Last summer’s best surprise was an afterthought: heirloom strawberry popcorn. The corn plants were not all that attractive in front of my house, but my kids saw the seeds at our local garden

��

See Into the Garden page 46 HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

The Barn: a labor of love by G. Lisa Sullivan I’ve always been fascinated by the Kennedy family, and, in particular, the time they spent at the infamous Kennedy compound, which comprised three separate homes and extensive properties belonging to Joseph, John and Robert, respectively. It all began in 1926, when Joseph Kennedy rented a summer cottage on Marchant Avenue in Hyannis Port. Two years later, he purchased the structure, which he enlarged and remodeled to suit his family’s needs, according to Wikipedia.

What began as a summer rental in 1976 was slowly transformed into the heart of a family.

In 1956, three years after his marriage to Jackie, John Kennedy bought a smaller home not far from his father’s, and, subsequently, his brother Robert acquired a house adjacent to the other two, ultimately forming what would eventually become known as the Kennedy compound. In addition to the three main houses, the property featured a swimming pool and tennis courts, two guest houses, a fourcar garage and a boathouse, plus unparalleled ocean views. It’s

��

Celebrating over 100 years built by JP Morgan in 1907 “Enjoy Magniﬁcent sunsets over the scenic Hudson Valley”

Celebrate Easter ~ Dinner Served 12-6pm ��

��

�� ´´´´´��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

April 2010

easy to imagine the Kennedy clan playing touch football on the expansive lawns, and the many Kennedy children and grandchildren marking milestones there. When I learned recently that a compound, nestled deep in the hills of Weston, was for sale, I was similarly intrigued. Granted, the home wasn’t owned by the Kennedys, but the family that resides there has, over the years, transformed what was an old barn and a ranch house into a dreamscape – a property with three distinct buildings and lush green lawns encompassing nearly seven acres, where even the Kennedys, or any other family, would feel right at home. The Country Life In 1976, Manhattan residents and advertising executives Susan Spindler and Robert Jordan married and began looking for a weekend rental in the country. An actor, with whom Susan had worked on a commercial, suggested they contact Bob Fuller, the owner of a rental property at 88 Godfrey Road in Weston.

See The Barn page 32

A gourmet kitchen has a walk-in pantry and breakfast nook.

��

�

��

�

��

April 2010

��

�� HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

■

WINDOW I ON I REAL I ESTATE ■

Ridgefield Supply takes the lead in lead certification by Jane K. Dove Most of us know the presence of lead paint and its dust can have serious health consequences. When old lead paint is disturbed during a renovation or remodeling, it can be hazardous for children and adults alike. With this well-established fact in mind, the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) has set an April 22 deadline for contractors to become leadcertified renovators under the EPA’s new Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule. The Ridgefield Supply Company in “downtown” Ridgefield is among hundreds of lumber and building suppliers across the country who are making a special effort to help contractors meet this important mandate.

Classes Help Contractors Comply Ridgefield Supply has already held four February and March certification classes taught by Patrick MacRoy of the National Center for Healthy Housing, and has two more planned: one on Tuesday, April 27, the next on Wednesday, April, 28. If there’s enough demand, another will be scheduled in June. “The new EPA rule regulates any work that disturbs painted surfaces in residences and child-occupied facilities built prior to 1978,” said Sean Sims, marketing coordinator for Ridgefield Supply. “The rule is aimed at the presence of lead-based paint, a material in wide use until it was banned in 1978. When old paint is disturbed, dust is created and can be inhaled. Since most of

the homes in our area predate 1978, this is an area of major concern.” The EPA instituted the new regulations because of the impact of exposure to lead in both children and adults. In children, even a tiny amount of exposure can lead to neurological damage. In adults, lead inhalation can lead to hypertension, muscle and joint pain, fatigue and nausea, among other symptoms. As a result, the EPA is now calling for all remodelers who intend to work in pre-1978 homes to register their companies and complete an eight-hour training and certification course with an accredited trainer. The course teaches how to safely contain lead in a home renovation and reduce exposure to residents and workers.

“As of April 22, firms will be required to assign a certified renovator to each job site who must be present during the beginning and end of the job and available by phone throughout the job,” Mr. Sims said. “All other workers must receive on-the- job training from the certified renovator.” Once on site, renovators must be sure the area is “contained” to avoid spreading lead dust. They must avoid unsafe work practices that create excessive amounts of lead dust and thoroughly clean the site at the end of the job to remove any lead dust that has been generated. “Our eight-hour classes provide detailed instruction on how to do these things, and others, and comply with all aspects of the new rule,” Mr. Sims said. “The course includes two hours of hands-on activities

��

� � � � � � � ��

��

�

� � � �

�

��

�� 8

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

April 2010

and an exam students must pass at the end of the class.” Classes cost $199. Participants receive a certificate of completion and must then apply to the EPA to become a certified firm at a cost of $300. “This puts you into total compliance, good for five years,” Mr. Sims said. “You must then take a refresher course.” Mr. Sims said Ridgefield Supply has taken a proactive approach “because we want to be sure our regular contractor customers are covered legally and our homeowner customers are protected. We are a retail establishment and want to be a quality partner in the community. Not everyone is aware of this pending deadline and few know about it in depth. We first heard about it in early 2009 through one of our trade organizations.” Ridgefield Supply originally thought of offering the training itself, Mr. Sims said, but eventually decided to hire Mr. MacRoy. “As of today, there is no state enforcement in Connecticut and New York; the only enforcement is through the EPA. But I believe enforcement will step up and states will sign on after the April 22 deadline has passed,” he said.

Mr. Sims applauded the EPA for its stance on the issue. “Around here, 90% of homes were built prior to 1978. And the older the home, the more likely you are to find that lead-based paint was used at some point in its history.” Homeowner Role Mr. Sims said contractors need to pay attention to complying with this rule, and homeowners need to understand the danger of exposure to lead, especially for children under the age of six. “Both need to know the steps that should be taken to avoid the consequences of exposure,” he said. But human nature being what it is, there is always the chance some contractors will try to “skirt around” the new mandates. “This is where the educated homeowner can play an important role,” Mr. Sims said. “If they know about the new rule, they can ask their contractor or remodeler about it. They should also understand that the contractor with a slightly higher bid may be the one that is EPA-certified. Everyone wants their family to be safe, so this is an area of major concern and people need to know about it.”

��

Successful Training Mr. MacRoy has conducted his EPA certification classes across the country and said knowledge of the new rule is finally starting to take hold. “We have had every range of emotion out there,” he said. “Some contractors think it’s just another government program to make things difficult for them. But after the class, most of them come around once they see how important it is.” Mr. MacRoy agreed with Mr. Sims about the importance of pressure from homeowners. “They need to demand safe work practices,” he said. “Their contractors should be certified, work safely and clean up at the end. A thorough final cleaning insures the removal of all lead dust. Homeowners love a clean contractor, and those that know about the danger of lead dust will appreciate the positive health implications of using a certified firm.” Mr. MacRoy said his organization was working hard to get the word out to make both contractors and homeowners aware of the new regulations. “I understand the EPA is working on a set of ads due to start airing in April,” he said. “We are hoping that states will take over local enforcement. I believe Connecticut is seriously thinking

about it. Once states take it over, it will be a lot easier to spread the word, do enforcement and achieve the highest possible level of certification [compliance].” For more information on classes or EPA regulations visit ridgefieldsupply.com. ■

Brief MAXIMIZE YOUR TAX REFUND: INVEST IN ENERGY UPGRADES – Make your home more energy efficient by upgrading an old appliance. A government initiative offers rebates: visit energysavers.gov/financial/70022.html for information. Purchase insulating paint and increase the thermal resistance of your walls, ceiling and water heater: visit nansulate.com/homeprotect.htm. Switch your light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs. Each bulb can save about $30 over its lifetime and reduce energy costs by 75%. Increase window energy efficiency by reducing the heat loss/gain. Caulk around windows to reduce air leakage and use window treatments to control heat transfer.

��

April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Knecht Woodworking A TRADITION OF FINE CRAFTSMANSHIP by Robin E. Glowa

Susan Knecht photos

When furniture is well-built from strong, sturdy materials, it stands a good chance of lasting for generations. When fathers pass on skills well-taught to their sons, the result is fine craftsmanship that will last for generations. Neil Knecht is a fourth-generation woodworker, carrying on a family tradition of exemplary craftsmanship begun by his great grandfather. “My great grandfather was a piano maker,” says Neil. “Knecht and Lockwood Pianos was his company. There was a limited quantity of his handmade pianos, and I have to say that I am sad I never got to see one of them.”

A desk and book shelves are customized to fit the space.

Neil is a man with great appreciation for both natural and architectural beauty. “When I was a kid,” he said, “I didn’t intend to do this. But I was always artistic, interested in sculpture and carving in particular. Eventually my carving turned into furniture making. It just so happened that when I graduated high school, I was only 17 and was extremely fortunate to step into an apprenticeship with Maurer and Shephard in Glastonbury.” Maurer and Shephard is a nationally recognized firm specializing in historic preservation and high-quality custom millwork. It produces pieces for both historic homes and

��

�� 10

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

�� April 2010

commercial buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. With this auspicious training, Neil gained a wealth of knowledge that would greatly influence his future projects. He fondly reminisces about his days working with owner Hap Shephard. “Every day I went to work in this great old factory with 20-foot ceilings that smelled like Eastern white pine,” he said. Today Neil’s factory is a charming workshop in the woods of Monroe. Here he crafts custom pieces for a wide range of clients, with an emphasis on quality construction that will last a lifetime. “When you make joinery the way it’s been done for 200 years, you make pieces that last,” Neil said. He went on to say, “The reason I can stay in business is many people would rather have one piece that lasts rather than a roomful of ‘box’ furniture that eventually gets thrown out. When I design something, I have the ability to custom size the piece to the space. If a table is needed for a tiny alcove or a media center for a massive wall, I can create that. Seldom can the ‘big box’ builders address that type of situation for a reasonable cost. I’m able to complete that project for a fraction of the cost,” he added. “I’ve noticed that a lot of people can be intimidated by talking with a craftsman,” Neil said. “I have always encouraged homeowners to call me; I’m happy to stop by and see what I can do. I do a lot of discussing with customers. I’m glad to share my education so they will end up with a unique and well-built piece that completely suits them and their home.”

Whether it’s a reproduction mahogany newel post, a mortise and tenon sash fashioned from Spanish cedar, a rich French-oak library complete with elegant window seat and radiator enclosure, linear red-birch counter stools, or a simple yet stunning Arts and Crafts bathroom vanity in cypress, Neil creates an array of sensational oneof-a-kind showpieces for local homeowners. He has used many exotic woods for particular projects, but he is a local boy at heart when it comes to hardwoods. “My personal bent is to use woods from our part of the country,” he said with enthusiasm. “We have so many fantastic options right here in New England. I really enjoy local hardwoods – maple, cherry, black walnut. I really love white oak – it’s a fantastic species. The way it’s sawn makes each piece different. When asked if he had a favorite project, Neil quickly replied, “That would have to be the front door of the carriage house of Hawk’s Nest! Hawk’s Nest was a wealthy couple’s summer home in Ridgefield. It burned to the ground in the 1930s, and the carriage house was the only building left standing. What a great building! It has curved eyebrows over the top of each window, big proportions, lots of stone. But not a very special front door. We designed a door that was correct for the time period from mahogany. It’s gigantic – 2-1/4 inches thick, 41 inches wide and seven feet tall!”

Neil Knecht created a special front door for a historic home.

��

See Knecht Woodworking page 45

Point Construction 8 Giles Hill Rd. Redding, CT 06896

��

�� April 2010

�� HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

A free-form pool with spa, waterfall and slide won Country Club Homes an award for Best Outdoor Environment.

All the comforts of home ... and more HOBI AWARD WINNER IN WILTON by Jane Dove An authentically detailed 1950s-style diner, a full-size basketball court and a dramatic outdoor living and recreation space have won Country Club Homes of Wilton three coveted 2009 HOBI awards, which are presented annually by the Home Builder’s Association of Connecticut. This year, the firm, which is owned by the brother-sister team of Carolyn Wheeler and Walter Cromwell, Jr, won the awards for a home they built in Wilton – one for Best Custom Home over 12,000 sq. ft.; a second for Best Outdoor Environment (a free-form pool, which includes a spa, waterfall and slide built into a tall, landscaped hill);

a third for Outstanding Special Purpose Rooms (a diner, basketball court and massage room). Something Special “This home is truly something special,” said Ms. Wheeler. “The owner has a large family of seven children, ranging in age from pre-school through college. He needed a home with ample space for a large family with many interests.” Sited on four acres, it is a gracious shingle-style home. “Although the square footage is generous, we worked with a design team, including architects Michael Smith of

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Wilton and Jeff Kaufman of Westport and interior designer Julianne Stirling of Fairfield to design and build rooms that are inviting and intimate,” said Mr. Cromwell. Outside, the home, which sits on a high ridge overlooking Wilton, is classically detailed, with wide, welcoming porches, varied roof lines, and stone accents. Inside, hardwood floors, coffered and paneled ceilings, wide moldings and hallways, wainscot wall panels and custom built-in cabinetry create the ambiance of a well established home. In addition to a formal living room, formal dining room, library, kitchen, office, and

family room with an adjacent built-in children’s theater and play space, the three-story home features six ensuite bedrooms and a master suite on the second floor. The third floor provides some private space for the older boys in the family, with two bedrooms, a full bath and a large living area. Award Winners Adding to its charm and special qualities is the one-of-a-kind 50s-style diner, which became a labor of love for Country Club Homes and Mr. Smith. The diner is adjacent to the home theater, complete with a twinkling star ceiling. Both are on the home’s April 2010

second floor in a wing of the house that was designed for the older children. “The 1950s diner was an exciting challenge for all of us,” said Ms. Wheeler. “The owner wanted it to be true to its era, so we spent a lot of time doing research on the Internet for the retro-style materials and items we needed.” They succeeded in their search for authenticity with quilted, stainless-steel walls, domed stainless-steel ceiling and cabinets, and a black-and-white checkerboard floor. Red laminate counters, red vinyl booths, two 50s murals, one featuring Elvis and the other an iconic 57 Chevy, complete the “look.” The diner also includes a large jukebox, tabletop jukeboxes, a neon “Diner” sign and a rotary pay phone. Also special are the pool house, pool, spa, water slide and adjacent tennis court. “The shingle-style pool house was designed to be fun and accommodate a large family,” said Mr. Smith. “French doors open completely to a covered porch and pool terrace. The stone flooring of the pool house and the terrace are continuous. An outdoor stone fireplace is perfect for cool summer nights, and the area includes a fully equipped outdoor kitchen.”

��

Accenting the large, free-form pool is a gentle waterfall and a Jacuzzi. A koi pond is surrounded by stone outcropping and native plants. “Perhaps the most dramatic feature of the pool is the custom-built slide,” Mr. Cromwell said. “Family and friends can climb up a ‘mountain’ on slab stone stairs, and then enjoy the ride down. The area is planted with an abundance of flowering native plants and shrubs that provide a natural backdrop for the curved slide.” Another award-winning feature is the full-sized basketball court. “We did a lot excavating for this,” said Mr. Cromwell. “But the result, which includes a scoreboard and climbing wall, was worth the effort. The adjacent exercise room, steam bath and massage room are just up the stairs and overlook the court. The massage room features a back-lit waterfall that runs down glass tiles, adding a soothing sound to the massage experience.” “The entire home was driven by the owner’s desire to create a family space that his seven children could enjoy and feel comfortable in,” said Ms. Wheeler. “This was one of the most fun and interesting projects we have ever worked on, with the added bonus of a wonderful client.” ■

��

April 2010

��

Adjacent to the home theater is an iconic 50s-style diner.

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

MARTHA STEWART

That’s a good thing by Polly Tafrate “I’ve been trying to get tickets to the Martha Stewart show,” I tell my daughter and her husband, “but it seems to be a closed shop.” “What do you mean?” my son-in-law asks. “Don’t you just send in for them?” “I guess,” I answer, “but the wait can take months and you have no choice of dates.” “I know someone who works there,” he says. “When do you want to go? How many tickets?” I gulp and give him a date two weeks forward. I have two friends in mind who I know would love to go. They better not be busy. The next night my son-in-law calls. “You’re right, it’s hard to get tickets, but my friend may be able to swing it. I gave her your e-mail.”

Soon I receive a “Dear Special Guest” invitation, complete with rules masquerading as guidelines: You must submit the names of your guests ahead of time and on the day of the show present a government-issued photo I.D. to be cross-checked with the door list reservation. We’re told to “dress to impress,” recommending that we wear solid bright attire/dress shoes/heels.” Because the studio audience is often on camera we’re advised not to wear dark or muted colors or prints. I also receive a few telephone calls from them confirming our reservation. Two weeks later, on a cold and icy December day, the three of us wait under the striped banner at Martha’s Chelsea television studios. It’s 12:30 – the time we’re told to be there for the two o’clock taping of the show.

We go through security, which is almost, but not quite, as intense as at the airports. Once inside, we’re in a waiting room, and, judging from the chatter around us, as excited as everyone else. We’re asked to sign an audience release and waiver form and then we’re free to browse at the Martha Stewart shop where we can purchase anything from a rain slicker to an apron, all with her imprinted logo. An energetic man bounces into the room to welcome us. We dub him, the cheerleader. “Raise your right hand and repeat after me,” he says. We parrot his words promising not to leave our seats once inside the studio. Seat numbers are called in order and we walk upstairs. To our delight we’re in the VIP section in the row behind the presenting

guests. There we sit, three blondes wearing various hues of pink jackets. This compact studio reminds me of a dollhouse. It has several adjacent areas, just the right size for Martha and a guest or two. A screen where a stenciling artist will demonstrate his craft partially blocks our view of Martha’s kitchen area but we can still see her signature white cakestands, pitchers and bowls on shelves. Off to one side is another kitchen where we catch a glimpse of aproned cooks prepping for what must be tomorrow’s show as today’s is going to be just decorating. As a foodie, I’m disappointed, because I’d hoped to watch Martha in the kitchen. Other cozy areas are the living room, craft area, greenhouse and potting shed, which has a faux panoramic Manhattan window wall.

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

�� April 2010

Our cheerleader bounces in telling us to watch him for signals as when to clap and when to be quiet. He coaches us in such a serious manner that we’re reluctant to chuckle, sneeze or cough. Men stand behind several large cameras on wheels ready for the show to begin. “You’re the first people Martha will see when she walks through those double doors,” he says. “Stand up, smile and clap loudly.” Four, three, two … and there’s a smiling Martha wearing black pants paired with a flowy black top. We later comment on her absence of jewelry and marvel at her ease with walking in stiletto heels. The fact that she’s traveled from Las Vegas the day before and completed a live show this morning doesn’t show. Martha’s subtle make-up and hair enhance her natural good looks. She looks just as she does when I watch her on TV. Martha uses the teleprompter located on each camera, making contact with an unseen TV audience but seldom with us. During commercial breaks, which we do not see, we listen to loud, hip music while our cheerleader circulates throughout the audience handing gifts to a lively few. The ones we recognize from our seats in front are a set of Gladware bowls and bottles of hand lotion. We’re dis-

appointed that Martha doesn’t interact with her audience at these times, but she’s ever the professional, re-arranging a notebook and conferring with her staff. Once the cameras start rolling again she resumes her smooth, suave and polished persona. The show concludes with a minor re-taping. Martha flubs her first goodbye, wishes the TV audience a premature Happy New Year on the second (the director reminds her another show will be aired before then), and despite her annoyance she manages a believable and sincere good-bye on her third try. When the cameras are turned off she takes the mike, stands before the audience and asks for a few questions. Some know this is coming and have notes. Here’s Martha at her best, telling one woman with an apple pie concern to press down on the crust before baking. Martha demonstrates this with her palm and adds with a smile, “But don’t let anyone see you doing it.” Back downstairs we retrieve our coats from the coat-check, find the Martha items we’d purchased and take the little goody bag filled with Dove chocolates. Once again we’re on the sidewalk under the striped banner as a taxi zooms past spraying us with droplets of slush. We’ve left perfection inside. ■

INTRODUCING TWO NEW SINGLE-LEVEL HOME PLANS FROM $449,900!

��

�� At Fieldstone Village you can savor what each and every day has to offer.

These distinctive maintenance free homes allow you to enjoy the best years of your life. A variety of plans combine style, unsurpassed quality �� setting. Gather to relax with neighbors and friends at the Fieldstone Village Clubhouse. Swim leisurely laps in the pool or play a set of doubles on the tennis court. And just minutes away, you can hit the links at one of the many �� and more.

NEAR & FAR Near & Far Aid Design House Tour of five homes in Southport, Greenfield Hill and Westport takes place Friday, April 30, from 10 to 4, with proceeds going to Near & Far Aid Association. There will also be a opening night reception on April 29 and a breakfast on April 30, with designer Eric Cohler as featured speaker. For more information on events and tickets, visit the Web at nearandfar.org.

Fieldstone Village’s exceptional location in scenic Orange puts the world at your doorstep.

Visitor Center open daily 10:00 – 5:00, or anytime by appointment Offering by Prospectus only

1025 Grassy Hill Road, Orange, CT 203.795.3732

Photo credit: Courtesy of Peter Cadoux

April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

To love, honor and take out the garbage HOW COUPLES NAVIGATE CHORE WARS by Amanda Bomann I took the faceplate off an electric switch in my bedroom to paint. Once removed, the wires jutted out and I couldn’t screw it back on. Since it was certainly an eyesore and potentially a safety hazard, I asked my handy husband to do it. A day passed. A week passed. Months went by. Finally, I had spent an entire year cringing at the sight of electrical wires. “I think I’ll call an electrician to fix that,” I said one night, gesturing toward the wires. My husband’s eyes opened wide. OK, so I was being passive/aggressive by suggesting this, but I knew the thought of spending money would get his attention. “For that?” he asked, looking at me as if I had made a totally ridiculous suggestion. He walked out and returned with an

electric screwdriver. Within one minute, the plate was back on. Unsure of how else to react, I started to laugh. It had bothered me for a year, and he had walked by it every day knowing he could fix it within minutes. My husband is far from lazy. He can spend an entire Saturday afternoon picking up every pine cone in our backyard, and he actually looks forward to going to the dump. But there are household tasks that I want to see done and tasks that he feels are more important. We navigate what can be the treacherous territory of chore wars fairly well, but we do have our differences. Post-marriage, some couples make a smooth transition to domestic roles while others find themselves arguing about such

simple tasks as taking out the garbage. In discussing the issue with other couples (who prefer to remain anonymous), what seems to cause the most friction is what needs to be done – how quickly and when. As with any issue in a marriage, communication becomes the key ingredient, but gender differences lead to conflicts. For example, if I ask my husband more than once to get something done, the word nag comes up. He can process what I am saying while gazing at the television and not feel a need to respond, so I think I need to ask repeatedly or it will not get done. Communication conflict and disagreements about household tasks are not unusual. According to Dr. Joshua Coleman,

author of The Lazy Husband, for many couples who argue about household chores, the debate centers on whose job is more stressful, who makes more money and who works more hours outside of the home. Wives begin to use such tactics as affection and aggression, while husbands use avoidance techniques. The focus of the book is how to motivate your husband to complete more housework, but the root of the issue is your husband’s view of domestic work in general. So how do couples in Fairfield County fare? Couple A rarely argues except when it comes to household duties. During my phone conversation with them, the chore war was raging and I found myself in the

��

� �

��

� �

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

It ’s time to Love your home again... ��

��

�� April 2010

middle. Husband A ended the conversation with the observation that they might need some couples therapy. “I’d ask, for example, would you mind cleaning the bathroom since I’ve done it the past three times. He’d agree, but it would not get done so I would just do it myself or we fight about it,” said Wife A. “This pattern remains. I ask, he agrees, and then there’s a delay until I start doing it myself or we argue. Or he sees me doing it and he gets defensive. Or I just wait it out until it gets done.” Wife A finds making a list helpful. Husband A does not. “I don’t need to see a

list. I just leave if I see her making a list,” said Husband B. “She always has stuff for me to do, and I get told over and over until I get beat down and do it. She just gets more frustrated than I do. I have other things going on and just don’t find these issues [important] enough to get frustrated about.” Personality types seem to be a variable in prioritizing the importance of household duties, as well as definitions of the word clean. I hate clutter. My husband keeps everything. I finally bought a cute basSee Chore wars page 41

HOME APRIL 2010

Jackie Perry, editor Jessica Perlinski, designer • Thomas B. Nash, publisher • For advertising information call 203-438-6544

VOL XIV, ISSUE 3

Special Section to: Greenwich Post, The Darien Times, New Canaan Advertiser, The Ridgeﬁeld Press, The Wilton Bulletin, The Redding Pilot, and The Weston Forum in Connecticut, and The Lewisboro Ledger in New York

Building Families... One Heartbeat at a Time

Cover: Home of the Month. Bryan Haeffele photo.

Box 1019, Ridgefield CT 06877 203-438-6544

��

� � � � � � � � � ��

� Domestic Adoption � Home Study Services � Heartbeats Program: Embryo Placement Program Surrogacy in India

Free Information Meeting

Learn About Adoption

Saturday, April 17 at 10am in Glastonbury Free Online Heartbeats Program Webinars

Embryo Placement Wednesday, May 18 at 7pm Registration Required

��

�� April 2010

� India Surrogacy Wednesday, May 11 at 7pm Registration Required

Call or Go Online to Register

www.afth.org � (860) 657-2626 HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

■

HOME I CUISINE ■

Spring cleansing by Silvia Bianco Every year around this time, I feel a strong desire to clean out my closets. I want to simplify my life and this always starts from the inside out. It starts with cabinets, closets and drawers. Though my house may appear uncluttered, I know better. Hidden in every corner is something I

Wonder bread. Now we know better, so we may try to eat only whole grains, less meat, more fish and lots of fruits and vegetables. There are substitute products for our various allergies to dairy, corn, wheat and so on, but food just isn’t what it used to be. People have been eating wheat, for

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgher is a savory alternative to a beef burgher.

don’t need or want. I’ve grown very intolerant of such excess, so the urge to purge is strong. This year, this urge has taken on a new meaning and application – my body. Though I have always been conscious of eating well, I’ve come to realize that I don’t know what healthy really is. It seems that every day we hear about some product or food group that used to be considered healthy, but no longer is. Who or what do we trust ... ourselves? Hidden in every cell of our body is a wisdom that does know what we need. We can trust it. Now, I’m ready to listen. Growing up, a healthy snack was a glass of milk and a grilled cheese sandwich on

instance, since the beginning of time. Why is it now a problem for so many? Has the quality of food gone down or is our sensitivity on the rise? Both, I’m sure. In the kitchen during my restaurant years, I’d get many requests for no nuts, shellfish, chicken broth, and on and on. I used to think, “It’s all in your head.” Although this is true in a sense, also true is that our bodies are trying to communicate; they’ve become unable to tolerate so much of what we ingest. And it isn’t just junk food – it’s almost all food. Can any of us really be confident that we know where our food comes from and how it’s been treated? Even if we buy organic, how nutritionally valuable are our fruits April 2010

and vegetables if our soil has been seriously compromised? Answering these questions will require a book rather than a short article, and thankfully there are many resources to choose from. But the point is this: If “we are what we eat,” doesn’t that mean that our health is in peril? Never one to foster the dark side of anything, I’ve come to accept that all we can do is the best we can with what we have. And what I have is a body that needs a spring cleaning. There are many cleansing diets to choose from. One of the best is the “21-Day Cleanse” by Kathy Freston, made popular by Oprah. I may love Oprah, but 21 days of no wheat, sugar, animal products, alcohol and caffeine is a bit more cleaning than I want to undertake. Instead, I was inspired by Dr. Christiane Northrop, who has reduced her basic eating guidelines down to the 80/20 rule: Eat 80% fruits and vegetables, and 20% everything else. Simply put, that works for me. I would add one more ingredient that can do wonders to compensate

for any lack in the quality of our food – love. It costs nothing and the supply is infinite. In a nutritionally questionable environment, this is something we all can apply. I firmly believe that how we eat is at least as important as what we eat. At least that’s what’s in my head. Therefore, my prescription for a cleansing diet that we can adhere to daily is this: • Chose a simple, basic diet that works for you both nutritionally and philosophically • Return to the table with family, friends and neighbors • Bless your food with love • Share real conversation This will go a long way toward infusing the necessary nutrients into our meals, and soon enough our bodies will radiate a vibrant life force – from the inside out. So now, on the rare occasion when I crave cake – I eat it. Silvia Bianco is a personal chef, teacher and writer; culinary service, chefsilvia.com. For articles, recipes, questions, askchefsilvia.com. ■

Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger with Roasted Peppers, Sautéed Onions on a Gluten-Free Muffin 2 portobello mushroom caps (drizzled with olive oil) 1 medium sweet onion (sliced) 2 red bell peppers , roasted 1 handful of baby greens (mixed greens or arugula) 2 slices (1/4 inch) vine ripened tomatoes 2 gluten-free, toasted English Muffins (found at Trader Joe’s) A smear of mayo Grill the mushrooms over a medium/hot grill until softened (about 5 minutes on each side). Sauté the onion slices in a hot sauté pan with a bit of olive oil. Toast the buns and spread with a bit of mayo. Top with the greens, followed by the tomato, the mushroom, the peppers and the onions. Serve immediately. Roasted Peppers 2 large bell peppers (red, yellow or orange are sweetest) 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 large fresh garlic clove, finely chopped 3-4 sprigs of fresh parsley, coarsely chopped Salt and pepper to taste Wash and dry peppers. Place on a baking sheet or rack about 4-5 inches from broiler or directly on a grill or gas burner. When the skin of the pepper is black and looks burnt, it is ready to be turned. Continue turning each pepper until each side is blackened. Place peppers inside a brown paper bag or in a covered bowl. The steam from this will loosen the skin from the pepper, making it easy to remove. Set aside to cool. When cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skin, remove the core and all seeds. Do not rinse them under water; this will rinse away the flavor. Tear into filets. Add the oil, garlic and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Toss. Serves two.

��

April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

RED ROSE CONSIGNMENTS

Vintage gifts, nostalgic prices

��

by Lois Alcosser

��

Peter Curran

�� Customers come from all over, intrigued by the unusual variety of gifts. ��

��

eration with unpierced ears. No pair is the same. She’s put jackets on dressmaker mannequins that are covered with vintage brooches and pins. (Brooch lover Madeleine Albright, please note.) “When I take these mannequins to a jewelry show, everyone oohs and aahs. Visibility is everything,” Nancy says. Through the four years the shop has been open, the consignment activity has been phasing out and Red Rose is emerging as a unique gift shop, with costume jewelry and brand-new pieces, all with a vintage look. She also is expanding a group

It isn’t often you see a vintage wicker doll carriage filled with dolls and a rack of necklaces and bracelets outside a shop, a trusting sample of what’s inside. But Red Rose Consignments, at One Danbury Road, isn’t an ordinary shop, and “consignments” doesn’t tell the whole story. Owner Nancy Vorel loves vintage costume jewelry and she’s gathered a collection of earrings, bracelets, pins and necklaces that are so reasonably priced it’s almost impossible not to want one, or two, or more. She has probably the largest choice of clip earrings anywhere for the gen-

��

�� HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn. ��

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

April 2010

of vintage famous-brand handbags, reasonably priced. Nancy chose the name Red Rose while looking through a book of nature photographs. “I wanted a name that would be memorable, that connoted a sense of elegance and the thought of red roses did it.” Her customers come from all over, including visiting relatives who make repeat visits. “Some of my most enthusiastic customers are teenagers, especially around prom time. They have their nails done a couple of doors down, and then they come here for their jewelry. I have a table of fivedollar items that empties fast. I think the reason is that the shop is totally unlike the usual jewelry section of a department store. Of course, there are other things — tables, silver, china, consigned items that are really valuable.” The shop is an ideal place for browsing, a mini-museum with oddities like Chinese porcelain carpet balls that were used for indoor bowling and handpainted sea-themed Limoges dishes. Nancy is as unique as her shop. Her background is corporate — IBM for 20

��

We’re So Much More Than Just Swimming Pools

��

See Red Rose page 44

��

�� April 2010

�� HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Color me delighted COZYING UP TO THE PAINTER’S PALETTE by Janis Gibson “Nothing gives you more decorating bang for your buck than paint,” says color consultant Ginny Awn. “It is an economical way to update and uplift your living space.” Yet, she continues, “People often struggle with color; they don’t like the results once they get it on the wall, or they don’t understand why they have rooms no one wants to go into. Color has so many nuances. I help people understand why one color may be OK, while another can be great ... or garish.” Ginny has been around color and design her whole life. “I was the class artist in elementary school, studied art in college and have worked as an interior decorator for years.

“Complementary or contrasting colors can make architectural details pop,” says color consultant Ginny Awn.

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

I have always done color consulting for my clients,” she said. “Now I am offering The Perfect Paint, a stand-alone color consulting service to help people decide which colors to paint.” The Norwalk-based consultant advises on exteriors as well as interiors, for businesses as well as homes. Whether subtle or bold, color has a big impact, she says. “It can also be very emotional, helping to set a tone for the activities that take place in a room. What is amazing is what a transformation color can create, even if you do nothing else to a room.” But it is easy to miss with color, she said, noting it is complicated and many people do not understand it. “There is a science to it – why complementary colors work, knowing how to soften a color without adding white.” In choosing the right colors, Ginny says, “You have to be able to visually project the color into the whole room. I can. I can see the room painted before it is, which enables me to help clients find what they will love the first time around.” When approaching a project, whether for an interior or exterior, Ginny always visits a home at least twice. “You have to see what a homeowner has and wants to keep,” she says, “as well as learn what colors people respond to, what they want a room to do.” And while Ginny may occasionally try to nudge homeowners in a particular direction, “you have to listen and remember who lives there,” she says. “After evaluating all of the information, I provide a recommendation of three colors or color combinations.”

An artist and color consultant, Ginny Awn also creates picturesque murals.

Ginny likes the paint samples that are readily available today, saying, “You don’t have to make choices from paint chips. For a few dollars you can try out various colors without committing yourself. Try a color on a wall; see how it is affected by light – natural and artificial – at different times of the day. Look at the color on a sunny day, cloudy day, and see the ways the colors in a room reflect on each other.” Colors can be adjusted, she says. One shade may be a bit too dark, the next a bit too light; maybe 75 percent of one is perfect. She also offers a tip to keep the ceiling light: put a hint of the wall color into the ceiling paint. Ginny notes that while most people are still more comfortable with neutrals with a splash of color, color adds warmth and “you can be bold with trim color. Complementary or contrasting colors can really make architectural details pop.” A safe and popular color combo today, she says, is sea foam and brown, which creates a cozy, welcoming feeling. She adds that if people like a lot of color, they tend to lean toward a blue or green. Color consultation avoids wasting time and money on paint colors that just don’t work, Ginny says. Fees are based on the size of the job, whether it is two rooms or 12, with consultations starting at $250. Once homeowners have chosen their colors, they can go forward on their own or hire from Ginny’s team of painters, contractors and upholsters to complete the job. The Perfect Paint, GinnyAwn@gmail.com, or 914-5255362. ■

��

at�� Bridgeport Lumber

��

�� April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

LOCATION: Old World charm PROPERTY: Almost three acre HOUSE: Built in 1929, this h hardwood floors and walls of dining room with fireplace an bedroom suite has a fireplace baths and a half bath. A one-y GARAGE: Two-car, detached. PRICE: $1,150,000. REALTY: William Raveis Wilt Agent: Ninfa Valella, 203-762 Photography: Bryan Haeffele.

ne of a Kind Home of the Month April 2010

m is a hallmark of this home in Weston. es feature perennial gardens, an in-ground pool and stone patio. house has been beautifully updated with a gourmet eat-in kitchen, f glass. There is a living room with fireplace and balcony/deck, a nd balcony/deck, a family room with fireplace and a den. A master e, bath and balcony/deck, and there are two more bedrooms, three year warranty is included. .

ton. 2-8300.

Reefs are rife with beauty ARTIST’S MAGICAL CREATIONS IMITATE LIFE by Lois Alcosser

Janet Crystal

The beauty and diversity of barrier reef plants and animals is equaled by that of the found items and whimsical crochet stitchery from which they were created.

��

Children always find something new as they stare at Maria Heller’s Great Barrier Reefs of the World exhibit in the Wilton children’s library. They want to know the names of everything, and, especially, how they were made. Ms. Heller’s close-up of the great reefs of the world contains crocheted shells and coral, tropical fish made of recycled eyeglass lenses, sea anemones made of bathroom carpet and much more. Everything is made of something else. There’s a monster crocheted clam, underwater plants and flowers made of florist moss. The Portuguese man-of-war is a Christmas ball, painted with dark blue nail polish, with rippling tentacles of string. Little groups of nudibranchs (unknown by many sea explorers) are made of wiggly rubber bands. Sea feathers

��

�� 26

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

See Maria Heller page 30

Adjustable Basketball Systems “Sportscape Your Backyard” ��

Jean Paul Jarreau

are a woman’s hair decoration. For Maria, it was another of those ideas that are always tickling her mind, inspiring the most surprising use of materials and subject matter. But this project has a special purpose. A small sign above the aquarium reads: “This representation of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef was created to call our attention to the beauty and diversity of plants and animals found underwater. We must provide our support and resources to protect these natural wonders.” Maria was born in Gibraltar and lived in England, Ireland, Scotland, Australia and all over Europe before coming to Wilton over 60 years ago, to the same house she lives in now. She is an adventurous traveler. “About 12 years ago, I was on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, where the tide was low and the corals

Maria Jarreau Heller is an artist whose creative mind knows no boundaries.

“This really is the ultimate basketball system...”

��

�

��

�� April 2010

��

We focus on one thing: Quality. From start to finish, we’ve got you covered. On time delivery. Complete customer satisfaction. Quality at every level. We build, design and install. We work with only the finest sports surfaces and materials for our projects. We also offer a selection of high performance court and field equipment to complete your sports project.

Ultimate Sports

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

U Making home renovation

Stage to Show R

��

a pleasure by G. Lisa Sullivan

When I interview an interior designer, I usually ask her to describe one of her more memorable projects. Not surprisingly, the responses vary widely, but they typically include a description of a room or space renovation. When I posed this question to Denise Balassi, owner of Interior Consultants in South Salem, N.Y., I received a refresh-

ingly unique answer: “It’s actually the client that makes the project memorable,” she explains, “beginning with an objective that he or she wants to meet.” Having perused the company’s comprehensive Web site, including a gallery of project photos, I would say that Denise and her design team, which includes Chris Leder and Judy Romano, strive to imbue

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Projects both large and small are welcomed by builder Frank Lisi and designer Denise Balassi.

April 2010

each project with the client’s distinct personality and taste, not the designer’s. There is nothing cookie-cutter about Denise, and every job, whether it’s a small bathroom renovation or the complete overhaul of a 22,000square-foot residence, can stand on its own. You would never look at a photo and think, “Oh, that’s Denise Balassi’s work.” You’d simply think, “Oh, what a beautiful room!” Simply Classic Born and raised in Manhattan, Denise, an allied member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked in two different commercial design firms before taking a break to start a family. During the mid 1980s, Denise launched her own design firm in Brookfield, but later relocated the business to New York, where she continues today to serve clients from New York to Florida. Focusing on classic design, Denise strives to achieve a refined simplicity, nothing too over the top in terms of color or scale. “Interior design should be classic, like clothing, which will never go out of style,” explains Denise, whose parents owned and operated a drapery and upholstery business, and who helped ignite her passion for interior design. “I spent a lot of my childhood in

See Renovation page 42

As an interior designer, Denise Balassi favors classic design that “never goes out of style.”

CLASSIC NEW ENGLAND BARNS

��

PRE-CUT WITH

AUTHENTIC MORTISE & TENON JOINERY (860) 350-5544

GAYLORDSVILLE, CT

HANDCRAFTED TIMBER FRAMES

��

www.newenglandbarn.com

��

�� April 2010

��

�� HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Maria Heller continued from page 27 were up above the water. Under the rocks, the colors were incredible. Fish, sea feathers, pink and purple sea sponges, blue starfish, multi-colored nudibranchs, which are fish without shells. I was so impressed with the beauty of it, I must have subconsciously kept it stored in my mind. And

then a year ago in January, I thought, ‘Why not do a reef?’ “It took me until October, and it led me to all sorts of new information. I decided to crochet the shells and plants because crochet is a very flexible and versatile craft. It’s very geometrical, and the same

geometrical symmetry is found in nature. Sea worms and kelps are naturally geometric, so are shells. I experimented with different size crochet hooks and different kinds of stitches. I made about 20 different designs. When I put three stitches into the same hole, it became a spiral.” With this technique, she’s made bunches of grapes and an exotic orchid. Crochet can be sculpture.

“There are always so many everyday materials to use creatively. You know the little net bag that holds onions in the supermarket? I used it to cover the eyeglass lenses of the fish.” Maria Jarreau Heller is known for her dramatic, brilliantly colored flower paintings, using colored pencils on vellum. These paintings are in the homes of many Fairfield County residents. She also teach-

��

• ��

��

Meticulous Landscaping & Design, Inc. ��

JOSEPH TAMBURRO

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

April 2010

es découpage, does Chinese brush-stroke painting, and her home is filled with beautiful, unusual objects she has made – lamps, chess sets, stained glass, liturgical embroidery and more. Her parents were antiques collectors, so she has been surrounded by art and history since childhood. Maria sees things in a special way, quite beyond what most people see. She just doesn’t notice things, she sees right into

them. She has used a discarded wheel, once an early Perkin Elmer mold, as a table. “I’ve been an artist all my life,” she says, “but I was never serious about it until about 40 years ago. But all my life, I’ve been doing things with my hands. “My wish is that viewing the life on reefs will make people aware of not harming the living things underwater, and taking home only what’s available in the

stores. Already, destruction has occurred – an animal called ‘crown of thorns’ has been eating the coral. It’s a big creature, round, with a big mouth that attacks coral. There are more and more places where tourists aren’t allowed. “The best places to view this underwater paradise are New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji. The water is crystal clear there, and there are no people trampling all over the

place. Most tourists don’t know much about reefs. They fall down, and break the coral. I saw a woman sit down on sea urchin. The barbed ends are like fish hooks.” In her upstairs studio/workshop, there are fabrics, shells, carpentry materials, buttons, lenses, everything imaginable that can be recycled. She’s not talking about it now, but, undoubtedly, she has several ideas bouncing around in her head. ■

��

One Call Does it All.

Backhoe, Dump Truck, Chipper Service April 2010

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

The Barn continued from page 7 Bob Fuller owned the 2,229-square-foot contemporary ranch house next door, at 86 Godfrey Road, and as the Jordans began spending more and more weekends at the rustic barn, they became quite close to their landlord. “When we first started coming here, there was a great room, a kitchen, a sleeping loft and one bathroom,” said Susan, the mother of three grown children and the owner of three beloved poodles. “There was no heat, so we could only spend weekends here in the summer and fall.” Their first child, David, was born in 1980, and they celebrated his first birthday, and many other special occasions at the barn, including the wedding of their daughter, Alexandra, last September. In 1982, the Jordans purchased the property from their landlord and began the gradual evolution from “party barn” to year-round residence. Working with local architect Bill Cram, the family began building a structure around the barn to insulate it, according to Susan, who currently works as a freelance writer and a volunteer EMT. The architect incorporated numerous windows into the renovation, turning what might otherwise be a rather dark interior into a veritable light-filled sanctuary. “We chose to preserve the interior of the great room, with its vaulted ceilings, rustic beams and period details, and sacrifice the outside of the old barn building,” she said. “It’s a decision we never regretted.” A Modern Barn Raising During 1983, a three-car detached garage was integrated into the barn to expand the size and scope of the home, and, today, the

��

LIMA TILE & MARBLE

U’R KNO W EL W E OO WH KI AT NG FO R!

The rustic living room with a large stone fireplace remains true to the memory of the summer party barn.

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

WE WILL WORK WITHIN YOUR BUDGET FOR ANY TILE PROJECT ��

��

�� April 2010

completely renovated residence features a round silo – which houses the second-story master bedroom and lower-level breakfast nook – plus four additional bedrooms, four full and two half baths, a gourmet kitchen with walk-in pantry, living room, dining room, sunroom, a lower-level family room with fireplace and kitchen, a gift wrap/hobby room, and as much storage as the architect could squeeze into the home’s many charming nooks and crannies. Other features and amenities include a beautiful, rustic living room with wet bar

and enormous stone fireplace (one of two fireplaces in the home), Mexican floor tile, hardwood and carpeted floors, glassed-in kitchen cabinets and stainless-steel kitchen appliances. The property, which borders a 1,700-acre nature conservancy, features mature trees, beautiful landscaping, a gazebo and brook. By 1985, the family made the decision to make the barn their full-time home, and soon after, Bob Fuller sold them his house, which included a built-in pool. “We built a bridge to the pool, and my mother moved

��

into Bob’s house,” Susan said. “It was great fun having grandma across the brook, and actor Alan Arkin rented the space for a while.” In 1989, the same year the Jordans had their third child, son Harry, they decided to build a third building, a studio, to use for work. Working again with Bill Cram, they designed an enormous main room and two small offices, plus a pool and cabana, with bath and changing room on the lower level.

“Of all the wonderful memories we have of the barn, none can compete with my daughter’s wedding last September,” recalls Susan, whose beloved husband, Robert, passed away seven years ago. “The chairs for 180 guests were out on the main lawn, and we had a tent for the reception up on top of the hill ... what a glorious day it was!” For listing and price information, call Jeri Kelley (203-856-0527) or Joan Wright (203247-5868) at Wm. Pitt Sotheby’s realty in Westport; Web site, wright-kelley.com. ■

��

�� April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

NEW CANAAN CARES KITCHEN TOUR

Unique designs for modern families by Kristin Selvala On Thursday, May 13, six generous New Canaan homeowners will open their doors to reveal the best in current kitchen design. While these homes vary in size, style and setting, they all share a commitment to design and uncompromising quality. The CARES Kitchen Tour will run from 10 to 3 and tickets may be purchased for $50 from local merchants or from CARES beginning May 1 (patron tickets available several weeks prior). Each home is a must-see, offering a distinct and interesting experience. A gourmet boxed lunch, $15 per person, will be available at our Boutique tour home (to reserve, call or e-mail the CARES office). Additionally, the Boutique home will feature fabulous vendors with a portion of proceeds to benefit CARES. We look forward to sharing the day with you. Nestled in one of New Canaan’s most distinguished neighborhoods, this historic residence is the perfect example of a timeless estate home updated for a modern family. The home’s impressive new kitchen by V.A.S. Construction uses reclaimed wood details and dark wood floors to achieve warmth and offsets the kitchen’s custom light-gray cabinets and Carrera marble countertops. Professional-grade stainless-steel appliances from REO Appliances round out the kitchen’s modern amenities and provide superb functionality. Conveniently near the kitchen is a large laundry room, office and project room that provide ample storage and work space for this active family. Throughout the interior, sumptuous textures, including Belgian linens and natural grass cloth in neutral colors, work to complement classic antiques and give the house a fresh, modern aesthetic. On a quiet street close to town sits this lovely stone and clapboard home. Newly constructed, this gentrified country home combines gracious European antiques with modern amenities in a state-of-the-art kitchen from Kitchens by Deane. At the heart of this country French kitchen, an oversized alderwood island provides a relaxing gathering place for the entire family. Custom details, such as the copper and brass pot rack above the sink, honey-toned island and eight-inch oak flooring create a feeling of Old World warmth. Custom off-white cabinets, Calcutta marble countertops and subway-tiled backsplash provide clean lines and balance the traditional wood and copper tones. Visitors will enjoy the “potting” area A sleek, professional cook’s kitchen was designed by J. Lockwood Assoc.

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

See Unique designs page 43

Jeanna Shepard

in the garage, which also serves as a staging area for outdoor entertaining. Beautiful Dutch doors lead to the home’s lovely grounds. Set on a ridge, this classical shingle-style estate by Country Club Homes makes a grand impression. Detailed porches and turrets, as well as impressive amenities such as a free-form pool, spa, cooking area and fire pit provide an oasis of outdoor living. Inside, an elegant front-to-back hallway leads past gracious rooms filled with classical details and interesting ceiling treatments. In the stunning custom kitchen, a highlight is an oversized island with a distressed black finish, which is paired exquisitely with a distressed cherry top, setting a tone of richness. Wideplank oak flooring complements the rich tones of the island and offsets the light-gray cabinets and Bianco Romano granite countertops. In the impressive butler’s pantry, concrete countertops and quilted copper backsplash blend nicely with stained alderwood cabinetry. This is an estate house reinterpreted for today’s living. Our traditional Colonial on a quiet country drive features an extensive kitchen renovation by J. Lockwood Associates. The goal was to create a beautiful workspace that easily handles large gatherings of family and friends. The family room at the rear of the house was transformed into a beautiful new kitchen, while the former kitchen became a fabulous pantry and eating area. Custom-walnut and off-white cabinets by Quality Woodworks LLC and Carrera marble countertops exceeded

Rustic elegance, a dramatic island and a delightful banquette create a warm and relaxing kitchen by Christine Donner.

��

April 2010

� ��

��

�� HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

■

HOME I MOANER ■

Barberism by Ben Guerrero Prior to February 9, 1964, every American male got his hair cut once a week. That was the day the Beatles made their American debut on the Ed Sullivan Show. The lads from Liverpool with their long locks and lurid lyrics, plowed furrows through popular culture to the extent that, within a couple of years, even Richard Nixon had John Lennon sideburns. The era of the local barber shop had come to a close. Until that day, there was at least one barber shop on every Main Street in every town. On the main street of my town, I recall three barber shops with a minimum of three chairs and three barbers. There was always a wait for a chair and always a pile of ratty old magazines to read while waiting. The barber called you over and, using only a pair of scissors and a comb, removed

��

all superfluous hair from your collar line up. When he was done, he’d wet down what was left with a bottle of smelly green liquid, comb it into submission and in an hour or so your hair would have hardened up enough to skate upon. The young folks would be offered a lollipop from a big glass jar. Two weeks later: back in the chair. I grew my hair long as soon as I was big enough to face down my father who, in spite of his own sideburns and mustache, was unbending when it came to how his sons appeared on the street. When I hit age 43, I decided it wasn’t worth fighting conformity, and I began getting regular haircuts again. This is not as easy as it sounds because I am a purist. I am dead set against paying for frills like mousse, expander and tea tree fire-

proofing or any of the other options offered at the modern “salon.” One by one, over the years, I have frequented the rapidly vanishing shops with striped poles by the door; places where the barber’s license is taped to the mirror and the long, tapered combs are kept in a jar of blue disinfectant. Eventually, I started going to the local beauty school. There, for a really good price, they’d throw you at the mercy of a student, who would very slowly, painfully and methodically cut each of your individual hairs, sometimes several times. Now and then, when a student seemed to get stuck, an instructor was called in. Soon, the two of them would be staring at the back of my head, the frustrated student being chided by the scissor-wielding instructor.

“How many times have I told you NOT to do it that way?” The instructor might ask, or worse, “How do you plan to fix that?” Whatever happened while I was in the chair, eventually they peeled off the drop cloth, my pate lathered in fragrant, waxy goo, and with any luck there would be no major divots reflected back in my rearview mirror. One of the benefits of risking my carefully-crafted public image to the sharp blades of an untrained and often pregnant beauty college student is that a trainee might eventually become your permanent hair-care coordinator. Such is the case with Helena. Helena is an artist and has the gift of gab and a natural gift for hair-styling. In her chair, I was regaled with tales and adventures of the local grim youth. She would

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

unravel wonderful travelogues of vacations at Disneyworld with her husband, and occasionally whispering the latest beauty school gossip into my newly protruding ears. After graduation, Helena brought her scissors over to Salon Niçoise, a wellestablished salon in a nearby town. I faithfully followed her. Every couple of months, I would call the reception desk and get my name on the schedule. When I got my nursing license and began working, I quickly realized that, in spite of the rigorous training, a job, once obtained, is still a job. And once in the work place, one soon finds themselves ensconced in a situation that is full of co-workers. Us new kids, freshly scrubbed and altruistic, learn – day one – that for every skilled and competent professional at the workplace, there is the equivalent number of disgruntled, incompetent, lazy do-nothings that complain all day and find new ways to avoid working. Such was the atmosphere in Helena’s new salon. From where I sat, it appeared that the other salon workers did not have nearly the dedicated work ethic

and skill set that verily gleamed off the tips of Helena’s scissors as she toiled over my shoulder. When I called last week she wasn’t there. “We haven’t seen her in a month,” the woman on the phone told me. Was she OK, I wondered? How am I going to find her? I didn’t know her last name or anything about her other than where she worked and that she liked the Monkees. And now she was gone. I considered sitting in the parking lot of the salon and waiting for a familiar face to emerge and then attempting to pry information out of her former co-workers. That seemed not bloody likely. Hallelujah! A Google search of the salon led me to their Web site and soon I was directed to Facebook where I quickly located and “friended” her. Lo and behold, a couple of days later, I was hearing a blow-by-blow description of the straw that broke the camel’s back at her former employer, and the story of why I was sitting on an old stool in her grandmother’s kitchen. Sometimes, thankfully, a mullet is a fish. ben.guerrero@sbcglobal.net. ■

Gone are the days of no-frills barbershops and beauty parlors.

��

April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

■

INTERIOR I INSIGHTS ■

Designing for a family of eight by Terri Reilly

Gasparrini photos

Furniture and fabric are classically beautiful yet durable and comfortable.

When you open the door it’s almost always chaos. The kind of chaos that makes you envious. There is much chatter and laughter. Someone is always working on a project, doing homework, looking for a snack, playing a game or asking mom the 500th question of the day. This is a home where the kids, all six of them, are not only welcomed but encouraged to use all the spaces within the house. It is a real home. How do you create a beautiful home using high quality fabrics, furniture and accessories that can withstand six active children who love to do arts and crafts, science projects, climb, cook, or cuddle up and read a good book? That was the dilemma when this mom and dad hired TR Design.

TR Design’s Family-Friendly Solutions • The selected furniture and fabrics are classically beautiful yet durable and comfortable. • The window seat cushion sits on top of a toy storage bench and is covered in durable indoor/outdoor fabric that stands up to the traffic of toy trucks and also serves as a favorite, comfortable reading spot. • The dining table has become a favorite spot for doing science projects, homework and of course dining, so the table, which is a distressed old farm table, adapts to all the various roles. A gorgeous, heirloom-quality wool rug is ecofriendly, anchors the space and adds color and warmth to the dining room.

��

�� 38

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

April 2010

• With six children in mind, accessories are streamlined and strategically placed. Decorative glass spheres in gorgeous gold tones have a wonderful reflective quality and are heavy and not easily moved, to prevent children from using them as bowling balls. The upper cabinetry and mantel are used to display favorite collectibles high above the touch of inquisitive little ones. • This busy mom spends a lot of time in the laundry room and wanted the space to be cheerful and fun. Brightly painted beadboard protects the wall from detergent spillage. The wallpaper adds whimsy and character, and a playful chandelier hangs from the ceiling. TR Design is at 82 Wilton Road, Ridgefield; 994-4366; trdesignasid.com; terri@trdesignasid.com; Terri Reilly, ASID allied, Annie Hill ASP, Lori Bova ASID allied. ■

A distressed dining table adapts to various uses, while a bedroom is compact and cozy.

��

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ��

Don’t let your patio set sit idle and ﬁll with snow,

��

Restore it today ...and in the spring it’ll be ready to go!

��

�� April 2010

��

Patti invites you to the Portico, now that Summer has diminished... Relax in Spring, because your furniture has been reﬁnished! HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Scammed ... a cyber nightmare by Polly Tafrate The morning started like any other. I poured myself a cup of coffee and went to check my Hotmail before heading to the gym around seven. I answered a few e-mails that needed immediate attention, postponed answering a handful that needed more time and shut down my computer. Or so I thought. Once back from the gym around nine, I checked my e-mail again before beginning the must-do’s of my day. WHAT? I couldn’t believe what I was seeing – 422 messages. I opened the first one and realized that something was wrong – very wrong. It wasn’t because it was from someone I hadn’t heard from in months – it was her odd message. The gist of it was she needed to talk this over with her husband before sending me money ... what money? The next one was from our dog’s vet asking if I was OK ... huh? I was opening up the third, when the screen went blank. Must be my computer, I thought, and asked my husband to open his e-mail. The following is the exact message, complete with punctuation of my supposed e-mail to him:

“To: Polly Tafrate ... From: Polly Tafrate “Hello, “How are you doing? I hope you are doing fine, Iʼm sorry that I didnʼt inform you about my traveling to England for a Seminar. “I need a favor from you as soon as you receive this email because I misplaced my wallet on my way to the hotel where my money, and other valuable things were kept, I will like you to assist me with a soft loan urgently. I will be needing the sum of $2,500 to sort-out my hotel bills and get myself back home. I will appreciate whatever you can afford to help me with, I will pay you back as soon as I return, Iʼm counting on you on this, Kindly let me know if you can be of help so I can send you my details to use when sending the money through western union. “I look forward to read from you soon. “Your reply will be greatly appreciated ~P~”

Immediately apparent to me was that someone had hacked into my e-mails, read them and knew I was about to travel. I was, but not to England. Not only that, but the punctuation and syntax were horrid and my signature had been copied as I sign all my mail with either ~Polly~ or ~P~. I tried to open my address book to alert people that this was a scam, but it was empty. The hundreds of names I’d stored there had evaporated – travel acquaintances, people I’d interviewed for articles, parents from my teaching days, editors of magazines … my mind sagged when it realized I’d no way to tell them that this was a lousy hoax. My phone started ringing – something it continued to do until around 10 that evening. Looking back now, I’m overwhelmed with the level of concern from people all across the United States. Many were voices from my past. All wanted to know if I was OK and if I needed money. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to chat or think to get their e-mail addresses, as the phone kept beeping with the next caller. A teacher from New Hampshire made me

��

�� 40

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

laugh for the first time all day. “I knew it was a scam,” she said. “Why would you be contacting ME for money?” Unbelievable as this may sound, many people fell for this ruse. A woman from Texas said she was going to send $500 if I could answer the question of where we met. “Only you would be able to answer, a cruise ship in Russia,” she assured me. Another neighborhood friend told me that at first he wrote back, “Sorry, I’m tapped out as I just paid my daughter’s tuition.” A few hours later he asked his wife if they couldn’t dip into their savings. A friend who lives in Venice, Italy, had my husband’s e-mail and wrote, “I have no cash, but can pay your hotel bill with my credit card.” That afternoon my techno-savvy son-inlaw walked me through the steps of setting up not one but two new e-mail accounts. Now I was back in cyber-space, but had no addresses. How did this happen? Human error – mine. A few days before I’d received a top priority e-mail from Hotmail saying they were closing accounts and unless I responded within 24 hours with my name and password, mine would be one of them. I fell for it.

��

Retrieving addresses has been like a treasure hunt. Some have been recovered through mutual friends, a few continue to be found on old correspondence and others through word of mouth, but I still wake up at night and think of others I’m missing. To say I didn’t try to rectify this problem would be wrong. I learned the hard way that there’s no human to talk to when communicating with Hotmail. Helpful friends gave me links with meaningless (to me) numeric and alphabetic codes that went on for lines, but all I got from them were hours of wasted time and aggravation. Every department I contacted at Hotmail assured me how hard they were working to help me, but they never did. As far as I know, no one actually sent money, or at least no one has asked me to repay them yet, but this debacle scared me. I’m wary now – so wary that I refuse to open attachments or anything forwarded, and when I send an e-mail, I ask for return confirmation. To be ready if something similar ever happens to you, I suggest you make a copy of your address book, have several e-mail addresses and never give out your password, no matter how legitimate the request looks.

��

Chore wars continued from page 17 ket, called it not a nice name and began throwing all of my husband’s clutter in it. This has helped. Couple B has some issues with dividing domestic chores, but finds adding some fun and humor helps make the issue less serious. “We’ve designated certain things his job and certain things mine. But he’s a typical man. I ask, he ignores me, and I repeat myself. I started a gold star system where he gets gold stars for things like fixing something or cleaning the basement. We kept the chart in the kitchen, and once a certain number of gold stars was reached, we’d go out to dinner. But once we had a child, we stopped that.” But there are still easier ways to an armistice. “We play a lot of rocks, paper, scissors for things like taking out the garbage and best out of three backgammon for the bigger stuff,” said Husband B. “And really, I just love praise. I need some praise in my life, and a good pat on the back always

motivates me to do work around the house.” Couple C has reached a level of compromise many wish to attain. “We’re not locked into any job. We just ask each other nicely, and it gets done. Without question, we split the responsibility down the middle, and neither one of us does more than the other,” said Husband C. “We’re a team. My husband takes initiative and does what has to be done. Taking care of our place together is part of the package, so we just take turns with what needs to get done and rarely argue about it,” said Wife C. I felt a tinge of jealousy about their chore nirvana. “But this just doesn’t seem normal,” I said. “Actually, I think we have some role reversal,” said Wife C, “where I am more like the laid-back husband and my husband is like a wife when it comes to household duties. And it works.”

��

�� April 2010

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Renovation continued from page 29 my parents’ workroom,” she recalls, “and I loved being part of the process.” Noting that her clientele wants timeless, classic simplicity, she eschews wacky styles or anything too trendy in fabrics, furnishings, accessories and colors. “One of our young clients has a 10,000-square-foot home in Greenwich, as well a 10,000square-foot vacation home in Kiawah Island, S.C.,” Denise says, and she has done and continues to do work on both homes. The Greenwich one is steeped in rich silks, paisleys, plaids and dark woods such as mahogany and cherry. The Kiawah Island residence is swathed in lightweight cottons in sand and beach tones, and white-washed woods. “The two homes for the same family are truly a study in contrasts,” she says, attesting to the versatility of her work. A Meeting Of The Minds Recently, Denise has partnered with builder Frank Lisi, owner of Easton-based Installations in Wood and Greenfield Mill, to form a full-service design/build company. The result is a staff of fully accredited designers, architects and engineers working together to provide each client with the optimum in service and quality, whether it’s a renovation or new construction project, Denise says.

Interior Consultants approaches each project with the client’s distinct personality and taste in mind.

��

� � ��

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

Frank, a Bridgeport native and former restaurant owner, launched his business nearly 20 years ago. “I operated out of my home in Easton until we overran the space,” he says. “I rented a larger space in Southport for several years until I built our current shop on some property I owned in Easton, which is separate from the house.” The company’s philosophy, according to Denise, is to provide homeowners with peace of mind so their projects can proceed with relative ease. “Our team pays close attention to each client’s specifications to create a personalized, quality home in the most cost effective and timely manner possible,” she says. “Working toward a common goal, the designer and builder can streamline their efforts and ensure that each correctly interprets and implements the architectural and design elements, while remaining on budget and schedule.” Often, Denise will approach Frank with a design scheme, which he will help execute. They may collaborate on a project as small as renovating a bathroom vanity or as large as remodeling an entire house, including trim, millwork and cabinets.

“We’ve developed a terrific working relationship in which she brings me the plan, and working within the budget, we build something that meets or exceeds the client’s expectations,” Frank says. “Our group has become like a well-oiled machine, working together over and over. Our ultimate goal is to satisfy the client, and we keep learning from one another.” Here in the Northeast, clients tend to prefer darker woods, like cherry, mahogany and quarter-sawn oak, according to Frank, who explains, “In kitchens, we are seeing a trend toward wood cabinets painted with a glaze, with possibly a different finish on an island or hutch.” “The advantage to having a designbuild team,” Denise says, “is that the homeowner doesn’t have to talk to dozens of separate workers – the plumber, carpenter, electrician, etc. – all have one point of contact.” For further information, visit the Interior Consultant Web site, interior-consultants.com, or call 914-533-2275. To reach Installations in Wood or Greenfield Mill, call 203-2686750. ■

Unique designs continued from page 35 the owners’ requirement of functionality and high style. The extensive renovation includes professional-grade traditional appliances and desired extras, including refrigerator drawers, steam ovens, icemaker, pot-filler and conduction cooktop. Of interest is the coffee bar and breakfast area, specially designed to keep users out of the kitchen’s main traffic area. Close to town, this antique gem combines historic character with modern amenities in a newly renovated kitchen by Christine Donner Kitchen Design and Rob Sanders Architects. The sunny kitchen glows with warmth from the reclaimed wide-plank floors to the historic roughhewn beams and golden-brass lamps above the island. Custom ivory-colored cabinets pop against the mustard-colored walls and oil-rubbed bronze hardware completes the country charm. The butternut wood-topped island anchors the room with its dramatic black base. Next to the bar, a delightful banquette with a large bay window faces the garden. Adjacent to the kitchen, a new mudroom/hallway,

painted brilliant red, features an arched ceiling, extensive cubicles for storage and a unique dog door. With in-town living the popular trend, this interpretation of the modern townhouse, designed and built by Prutting & Company, is not to be missed! This home reveals that glamour, sophistication and energy-efficiency can be combined to create an exceptional living experience. With four floors and two working kitchens, this home demonstrates craftsmanship and commitment to excellence throughout. The main kitchen combines surprising efficiency with modern convenience. The English sycamore cabinets offer ample storage and create a bright and inviting space with floor-to-ceiling windows. Countertops of CaesarStone, stainless steel and glass create beautiful workspaces that are also eco-friendly. This home is incredibly spacious and serene. For more information, or to reserve tickets now, visit the CARES Web site at newcanaancares.org, or call 203-966-7862. ■

Carpet • Laminate Ceramic Tile • Cork Linoleum • Vinyl Tile Marble & Granite Tiles Pre-Finished Hardwood * We Carry Green Products * �� Open Mon.-Fri. 10-4 Sat. 10-2:30, Closed Sunday

��

�� April 2010

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Red Rose continued from page 21

ANTIQUES APPRAISAL DAY Red Rose Consignments is holding an appraisal day to benefit PAWS on Saturday, June 5, from 11 to 4 to benefit homeless and abused animals. Bring up to two items* to be appraised by Peter Curran from Wilton, who is a certified appraiser and has appeared on the Antiques Roadshow. A $20 minimum donation to PAWS is required. Red Rose will donate 5% of the day’s sales proceeds to PAWS. * Photos of items too large to carry in may be viewed by the appraiser for estimate only.

Peter Curran

years in sales, marketing and management, Merrill Lynch, Decker Communications. While she was at IBM, she had two Haagen Dazs ice cream stores in Westchester. And during her stint in real estate investment, she found the store at One Danbury Road, which had previously been a very successful gift shop. She has held several fund-raising events at the shop — for breast cancer research, for PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society) and a makeover demonstration, “The Renewal of a Woman.” Her technique is to have a grab bag full of jewelry for every donation. Another special feature is Nancy herself. She’s there, at her shop, for her customers. She’s a good listener and sometimes she thinks she’s perceived as a therapist. “But that’s OK. One of the reasons I love this business is because of the people I get to know. People energize me.” The consignment process is 55% for the consignor and 45% for the store, “I don’t keep large pieces, like desks or bureaus, more than three months because they get stale and I don’t have the room. Interestingly enough, you’d think that in this economy, consigning would be very popular,

but it doesn’t seem to be. I guess people want to hang on to what they’ve got. “I’m going to bring in more silver, glassware and china collectibles, but they have to be unusual. After all, this kind of merchandise is all discretionary. Not a ‘must have’ but a ‘want.’” People may be cutting back on expensive clothing and luxury accessories, but there’s nothing like treating yourself to a piece of jewelry that doesn’t cost a lot and makes you feel good.” Red Rose Consignments, 1 Danbury Road, Wilton; 203-761-0383; Web, redroseconsignments. com. ■

Nancy Vorel of Red Rose Consignments has a fascinating collection of jewelry.

�� APRIL STOREWIDE SALE!!

Save 30%-80% �� NEWLY RENOVATED

See our

5000 sq ft

SHOWROOM and KIDS FURNITURE SECTION!!! Visit our NEW WEBSITE www.discountbeddingfurniture.com

At Discount Bedding and Furniture, our goal is to always provide the best value and selection with that personalized service you deserve. We want you to LOVE the look and comfort of your home! Chris LaForte, Owner

4 New Canaan Ave. Norwalk, CT • 203-845-7979 (Behind Dunkin’ Donuts) www.discountbeddingfurniture.com

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010

Knecht Woodworking continued from page 11 Brian Lavoie knows just how beautiful one of Neil’s front-door designs can be. Brian and his wife, Patti, were the owners of a very special home in the heart of the historic district of Stratford. It was built in 1885 as a one-room schoolhouse, and Brian and Patti put tremendous effort into restoring it. One day while Brian was in the process of replacing doors and windows, Neil and his wife happened to be walking by. Neil stopped to compliment Brian on the work he was doing. Brian said, “Next thing I knew, Neil was telling me that he was a cabinetmaker, and he was going to help me build the front door – with mortise and tenon joinery and any kind of wood I wanted. I can tell you that the guy is an absolute artist,” Brian said. “The door turned out so beautifully; it was made from Eastern white pine. The reproduction hardware ... everything was so perfect. This door completely transformed the look of the house! Neil is the kind of guy who has such a passion for his work, he really gets you excited about it.” Knecht’s Woodworking is at 101 Pepper Street, Monroe; 414-9174. To view a sampling of Neil’s work, visit knechtwoodworking.com. ■

��

Greene and Greene inspired mahogany media cabinet displays the beauty of handcraftsmanship.

��

�

��

�� April 2010

��

�� HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

Into the Garden continued from page 5

��

center and begged for them. It was already July, but we planted them anyway. It was a small but extremely delicious crop. In fact, it was the best popcorn I ever had. This year I’ve ordered two packs of seeds and I will rip up lawn if I have to to plant them all. I don’t mind telling you that I am a lazy gardener. I shy away from container plantings because I can’t be relied upon to water them. If I trusted myself to lug out the hose daily, I would surely hang baskets of unbelievably tiny red currant tomatoes from my porch. Who needs flowers when you can have a lush crop of sweet tomatoes? Once a year I’ll spread my home-made compost around my planting beds. I’ll nurture my seedlings for a couple weeks, maybe set them outdoors to harden off for a few days, and then they need to get in the ground quickly before I begin to neglect them. Once they’re in the ground, I can pretty much count on spring showers to help them settle in, and then the plants are on their own. And somehow, this

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

■

The first time I made fresh butter, my husband came home with organic cream, but not from grass-fed cows as I requested. (Dairy from grass-fed cows has a higher omega-3 content.) It worked just fine. I divided my butter into two batches, adding lemon thyme to one and dill to another. At breakfast the next morning my husband spread the lemon thyme butter on his bagel, bit and declared, “Exquisite!” The following week he came home with unhomogenized cream from grass-fed cows in Hudson, N.Y., just about the best cream available. Did the man now want me to make him fresh butter on a weekly basis? Whether you go through the trouble of making your own butter or use sticks from the store, blending in fresh herbs, perhaps

��

Herb Butter

��

■

��

works for me. Mother Nature takes over with fabulously delicious results. Sarah Landis is a writer, gardener and homemaker in Westchester. ■

��

�

��

April 2010

with some citrus zest, will delight your diners. I prefer to use salt on the table, rather than in the butter.

��

�

Press the butter into a mold (a very small bowl works well), freeze for 30 minutes, then turn the mold upside down and put it briefly under running hot water. Insert the tip of a knife into the butter and release it from the mold, transferring it to a dish. Alternatively, roll the butter into a log. Wrap with parchment paper and then a layer of plastic wrap. Butter will keep in the refrigerator at least a week and three months in the freezer. *Two pints of cream produces 1 pint of butter and 1 pint of buttermilk. Makes enough butter for a mold and several logs.

� � � ��

Ingredients Cream, 2 pints* Herbs, washed, patted dry and minced Using an electric mixer, beat cream until it clumps together and liquid separates out. This can take as long as 15 minutes. Beware: When the butter begins to separate, the liquid (buttermilk) will splatter unless you immediately lower the speed of your mixer. Pour off buttermilk and reserve for drinking. This tastes like whole milk rather than tangy cultured buttermilk. From 2 pints of cream, you will get 1 pint of butter and 1 pint of buttermilk. Wash the butter: Pour ice water over the butter. Press the butter against the side of the bowl and pour off the cloudy water. Repeat until the water is clear. This helps extend the life of the butter. Add herbs and mix thoroughly. How much you add is up to you. Fresh herbs aren’t as strong as dried, so add with abandon. Have fun experimenting with different combinations.

��

�� April 2010

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

��

HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn.

April 2010