KER RI ROSENTHAL:
HOM E GROWN, LOVED EVERYWHERE
HOME + DESIGN
FIND TONS MORE HOME + DESIGN INSPIRATION IN OUR ANNUAL HOME ISSUE
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DISCIPLINE
The Heart That Makes A Home
Dear Readers,
Welcome to our March issue, where we celebrate the beauty and inspiration that comes with all things home. As the seasons begin to shift, it’s the perfect time to embrace fresh ideas for living spaces that reflect comfort, creativity, and style.
This month, we invite you to step inside one of Westport’s newest, most gorgeous, and impressive homes, located at 5 Fraser Road. The team at Bross Chingas Bross takes us on an exclusive walkthrough, highlighting the stunning design, thoughtful details, and exceptional craftsmanship that make this home truly remarkable. It’s a perfect example of how modern luxury and timeless style come together to create an inviting and inspiring living space.
For additional inspiration, we’ve turned to four of our favorite home influencers, who share their insights and tips for creating spaces that feel uniquely yours.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to feature renowned architect Peter Cadoux as he explores 2025’s most anticipated home trends. From innovative designs to sustainable solutions, Peter offers expert insight into how our homes will evolve in the coming years.
Westport’s love for beautiful spaces extends beyond homes, and this month, we’re featuring the newly designed Bloom Salon. With its stunning new interiors, Bloom is more than a salon—it’s a beautifully reimagined space for relaxation and style.
Speaking of beautifully designed spaces, Nômade, one of Westport’s favorite restaurants, has expanded to include a home goods store. Their new location offers a curated collection of unique pieces that bring charm and personality to any home.
And for those craving a “home away from home,” our travel feature this month transports you to Mohonk Mountain House, a timeless retreat that blends cozy elegance with breathtaking natural beauty—a perfect escape for relaxation and renewal.
While this issue celebrates the beauty and comfort of luxury living, it’s important to highlight the other end of the spectrum and the incredible work being done in our community to support those without a home. This month, we’re proud to feature the newly renovated Gillespie Center, part of Homes with Hope. This vital organization provides essential support and services to those experiencing homelessness, ensuring everyone in our community has a chance to find stability and hope. Their dedication is a reminder of the power of compassion and the strength of community.
We hope you enjoy this issue surrounded by the people and stories that make your home truly special.
Happy reading,
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Gaynes Levy | sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sara Gaynes Levy, Meredith Guinness, Jen Berniker, Marisa MacLean, Allison Swan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
John Videler
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE
3:5-6
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A Connecticut Masterpiece
Bross
In Bloom
The
Heart To Heart
How
A New Hope
A
Hoskins
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Design Within Reach's holiday party. 4: Guests at the Design Within Reach holiday party. 7: Zac Mathias. Photography by Jerri Graham
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
WPKN Expands its Local News Coverage
Earlier this year, WPKN-FM (89.5 FM or streaming at wpkn.org) launched a new, 25-minute daily radio newscast. This local coverage focuses on state legislative sessions and voices within the community, and airs weekdays at 6:35 p.m. EST. (There is also a podcast format.) WPKN News Director John Iannuzzi heads the expanded news coverage. For more, visit wpkn.org
Photography by John Iannuzzi, courtesy WPKN.
Lux Bond & Green Expands to Downtown Mystic
Lux Bond & Green, the 127-yearold family-owned luxury jeweler, is expanding to downtown Mystic, Connecticut. Their new location in the former Bank Street Book Store buildings at 49-53 West Main Street will bring their legacy of craftsmanship and exceptional service to one of New England’s most iconic shoreline communities. For more information, visit lbgreen.com
Photography Courtesy Lux Bond & Green
Theatre People Comes to the Westport Country Playhouse
In 2023, the Playhouse staged a Script In Hand reading of Connecticut-born playwright Paul Slade Smith's Theatre People. It was a riotous hit, and they've brought it back as a fully produced production, directed by Mark Shanahan. The screwball comedy is an adaptation of Ferenc Molnár’s “Play at the Castle." Through April 12. Tickets from $40, at westportplayhouse.org
Photography Courtesy Westport Country Playhouse
Chem Chronos Opens
Chem Chronos Medical Aesthetics, a new boutique practice, is now open at 179 Post Road W. Chem Chronos was founded on the idea that we can utilize chemistry (chem) to oppose the effects of time (chronos). The owner and primary injector, Rachel Katz Frank, is a certified Physician Assistant with 8+ years of surgical experience, and lives in Westport with her husband and three young boys. For an appointment, call 203275-5194 or visit chemchronos.com
Photography by Michelle Christine Photography LLC
A CONNECTICUT Masterpiece
The Bross Chingas Bross team is in their thirteenth year as the number one real estate group in Westport, and it’s easy to see why. All three partners— Barbara Bross, Alexander Chingas, and Douglas Bross— are from the area, and know the market here inside out. So it was no surprise when they were announced as the listing agent for the spectacular two-acre property at 5 Fraser Road. The six bedroom home, with eight full and two half bathrooms, was built by Skyview Builders, a full-service design build company for high-end custom residences in Fairfield County. The Bross Chingas Bross team has a longstanding business relationship with Skyview: last year, they represented both Skyview as the seller as well as the buyer of a Skyview home in the Coleytown area that sold for $7.25 million— the largest non-waterfront sale in Westport in 2024 (per SmartMLS data). Because Skyview knows and trusts Bross Chingas Bross, Alexander and Doug explain that they’ve been involved with 5 Fraser since the literal ground floor. “The excitement for us started right from the beginning- [Skyview] leaned on our experience to help them bring a product to market that’s going to meet the needs of the buyer, from the floor plans to the finish selections,” explains Alexander. “Through each phase of the building, it’s been so exciting because there are so many things you don’t often see in a house,” agrees Doug.
Among the home’s standout features are approximately 1,800 square feet of glass by Klar Studio Windows and Doors, seven miles of LED lighting, 45,000 linear feet of radiant heat floor
Bross Chingas Bross lets Westport Lifestyle tour one of their most spectacular homes.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
Alexander Chingas, Barbara Bross, and Doug Bross.
tubing, 3,000 cubic yards of concrete, and 25 tons of porcelain. “It makes it really exciting to show the property, because there’s so much that has gone into this house,” says Doug.
With so many amazing amenities, it’s hard to pick a favorite feature, but Alexander says that his might just be the aesthetic of the house overall. “Because of how modern and bold it is, sometimes people don’t associate it with being a New England home,” he says. “But to me, this house proves that modern design and extensive use of glass is the way to go in Connecticut, because it captures the scenic beauty of the setting so perfectly. When you go into this house, there is a room on the third floor that looks out over basically all of Westport’s tree line. If a more conventional home had been built in that setting—without such extensive use of glass and modern design—the views would have been left behind.”
One of the reasons the Bross Chingas Bross team is such a perfect fit for 5 Fraser is because of their strong roots in the Westport community. “Clients who are waiting for the right house to become available have already crossed the threshold with us—they’ve inquired about our listings or come to see our properties in the past and we know what was right or not right about those homes for their needs,” Alexander explains. So when a listing as special as 5 Fraser comes up, the team knows which buyers to call. “We’re very focused on networking.”
That extends outside the immediate Westport area as well: “We’re in touch with the top brokers in all the markets that feed Westport— New York, the Boston area, Southern California, Silicon Valley, Texas, Miami, Phoenix,” says Alexander. For prospective buyers not in Fairfield County, having the insights the Bross Chingas Bross team provides is invaluable. “We often become people’s first friends here— they’ve zeroed in on a place they want to live but they don’t know anyone there yet and so we become the first point of contact,” says Alexander. “We love helping them get introduced to the area and what it has to offer, and make it a community for them.”
Whoever ends up living at 5 Fraser, they will be a lucky client indeed. “It’s a wonderful time for a buyer to enjoy living their dream life,” says Doug. To learn more about 5 Fraser Road, visit 5fraserrd.com
For more information about the Bross Chingas Bross Team at Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, call 203-454-8000, or email info@brosschingas.com. You can also visit visit coldwellbankerhomes.com/ ct/westport/team/bross-chingas-bross to see their current listings, and follow them on Instagram @brosschingasbross
5 Fraser Road
CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE
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4 FAVORITEFOLLOWS
Beautiful interior design inspiration is always a welcome sight in our social media feeds. We spoke to four of our favorite local home + design influencers who shared with Westport Lifestyle how they got started, what inspires them, and what they love about their online communities.
LOCAL HOME INFLUENCERS WHO ARE SURE TO BRING A DOSE OF INTERIORS INSPIRATION TO YOUR FEED.
HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN DESIGN?
When I was 5 years old, we moved into a beautiful home with my family that was over 100 years old. Seeing my parents restore, renovate, paint, wallpaper—that helped me develop an eye for detail and a feeling of making home my happy place.
HOW DID YOU LEARN TO DIY?
I have a creative brain that’s always thinking of ideas. One of the DIYs that I’m most proud of is a pair of nightstands that I built. It was my first time picking up a power tool!
HOW DO YOU FIND DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH?
From HomeGoods to estate sales—I love the hunt! If you find something, ask yourself if it fits into a moodboard [of your home]. Be intentional with what you buy, and remember that anything you love is always in style.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO TRANSFORM A ROOM?
Eliminate all visual clutter! An instant refresh, costs $0, and the reward is priceless.
WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT BUILDING A COMMUNITY?
I love the feeling of inspiring others, making people laugh or feel seen. I’m forever grateful that people support what I share.
CONTINUED >
Gina of @beautypigeonhome
Jen
Interior design @my_designport
HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN DESIGN?
Growing up, I sketched houses for fun. I realized I had an eye for design. In my TV producer career, I was always the person moving furniture around the office. One day, my boss asked me to redecorate his apartment. That project sparked something—I took design classes, assisted a designer, and landed a project with HGTV.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?
My dream home would be a Scandinavian-style modern chalet. But I also swoon over modern farmhouse design. And while I wouldn’t call myself “coastal casual,” I appreciate a bleached-out beach house. My home, a compact Colonial, is a mishmash of all these influences.
HOW WAS DESIGNPORT BORN?
When the pandemic hit, friends started asking for advice. I thought, “Why not create a Facebook group dedicated to home design?” The name Designport felt perfect for a town brimming with creative energy. I started curating content, advice and home tours and loved doing it.
WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT BUILDING A COMMUNITY?
Hearing from people who’ve connected with an interior designer, landscape designer, or artist through Designport. And I’ve met the kindest, most generous people. Their stories make the time and effort behind Designport worth it.
Jen of @my_designport. Photo by Maya Porrino.
Caitlin Interior design @thepicketfenceprojects
HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN HOME DESIGN?
Even as a kid, I had strong opinions about how my mom decorated my bedroom! When my husband and I bought our first home, I started a blog to document how I was decorating and DIY projects we tackled.
WHAT’S MOST SATISFYING ABOUT DIYING?
Seeing the final result and thinking, Wow, I did that! Especially when the end result looks just as good as something professionally done.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR DESIGN STYLE?
I gravitate toward a mix of old and new and earthy textures and tones, in clean, uncluttered spaces. Living in Coastal Connecticut has influenced my aesthetic with a coastal nod.
WITH THREE YOUNG KIDS, HOW DO YOU BALANCE DESIGN AND FUNCTIONALITY?
I want my kids to feel comfortable, but my husband and I want it to reflect who we are. Storage is my best friend. I avoid making anything too precious, and embrace patina. We rely on secondhand items, so I’m not stressed if they get a little more “loved.” And magic eraser is my secret weapon!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE ROOM IN YOUR HOME?
Our dining room. It’s full of natural light, and we added custom cabinetry and a herringbone-patterned brick floor, which gives it so much character.
WHAT’S MOST REWARDING ABOUT BUILDING A COMMUNITY?
Hearing that I’ve inspired someone. I’ve gained so much inspiration from others on Instagram, so being able to pay that forward is a very cool feeling! CONTINUED >
Meredith Design-focused organization @houseofprim
HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN DESIGN/ORGANIZATION?
I’m a Leo and an oldest daughter, so I love beautiful things and keeping them in order. [And when I had children,] I realized that if I did not have smart systems in place, I would not survive. I found that I loved making spaces look and feel better—when they did, I was better.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PROJECTS TO WORK ON?
The ones that are challenging speak to the “figure it out” part of my brain. The satisfaction I get from turning [those spaces] into something wonderful is why I do it. But I love them all!
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR DESIGN STYLE?
I'm always making a space feel warm and inviting, with color, textures, or the way you set it up. [It’s all about] classic elements, complimenting colors, and some personality!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE HOUSE OF PRIM PRODUCT?
They are all my babies! I loved working on our Silicone Travel sets—curating the pieces, quality, and colors. Seeing people love and use them has been the best feeling.
WHAT'S THE MOST REWARDING PART ABOUT BUILDING A COMMUNITY?
I started House of Prim with the idea of aspirational, attainable images that would inspire. If we help someone else, that is the best reward I can think of.
Meredith of @houseofprim. Photo by Julia D'Agostine.
Shifting TIDES
Top Westport architect Peter Cadoux on the future of home building.
ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY PETER CADOUX
In 2025, Peter Cadoux, winner of the Westport Lifestyle Readers’ Choice Award, continues to impress clients with his thoughtful designs, balancing how homes are lived in with the practicality of the materials used in their construction. Whether designing traditional or modern homes, he finds that a quieter elegance and streamlined aesthetic are increasingly appealing to many of his clients.
“We stay at home more and we entertain more,” Peter says. “Clients are more purposeful in where they go, how they live and how they want things to function.”
Asked to reveal top home trends for the coming year, Peter was hesitant to use the term.
“‘Trends’ implies an expiration date to designs that should be timeless,” he says. “I call them shifts. We live differently than we did 20 years ago. Even the antique renovations I design include elements that reflect a lifestyle that has evolved.”
Peter Cadoux sees a move to sustainability: both with less decoration and more comfort.
Customized built-ins and open spaces are multi-purpose, featuring unusual pairings like high gloss finish and natural beams. Clients are also blurring their indoor/outdoor square footage and creating trans-seasonal homes with ceiling heaters, moveable bi-fold walls, and glass technology.
Aesthetically pleasing, energy-efficient materials like composite, stone, brick, and metal are less wasteful, require little maintenance, and protect from harsh elements.
Upscale bunkrooms continue to gain popularity as homeowners look for ways to use space efficiently and provide better options for guests. Other luxuries include cold water plunges, infrared saunas, and dedicated yoga rooms. Wall water dispensers in the kitchen adapt another spa staple to the home.
“You put your Stanley in there and go,” Peter says.
One of the most unexpected must-haves of the year? Elevators for transporting everything from people to laundry to heavy groceries. As Fairfield County homeowners look to maximize space, some askew the ranch styles of yore for verticality.
“While I’ve been fortunate to design many magnificent, larger homes, efficient designs should always be prioritized,” Peter says. “The size of my designs is always relative to my clients' needs, but with efficient planning, they can include features they might not have thought possible.”
Bring spa accents like a filtered water station home.
Home elevators extend vertical options.
Blurring indoor/outdoor lines.
Charging Ahead
In 1953, Porsche shocked the racing world with the giant-killing 550 Spyder. Nearly seven decades later, Porsche continues to set new standards in performance in every category, even electric vehicles, with their groundbreaking Taycan and all-new Macan EV.
At Speedsport Tuning/SST Auto, we understand the passions and interests that drive Porschephiles are as diverse as the cars themselves. Over the past 30 years, we’ve grown from a small Porsche specialty shop to a full service, independent company serving Porsche street, competition and vintage enthusiasts nationwide. We pride ourselves on being able to handle the needs of any vehicle that rolls into our 32,000 square foot facility.
Our vintage department is globally recognized and trusted to care for some of the world’s most coveted and valuable Porsches. We have the expertise and the
specialized tools to handle even the most challenging projects, including complete rebuilds of Fuhrmann’s legendary 4-cam engines.
Modern Porsches receive unmatched attention-todetail in our street department as our factory-trained staff use the latest tools to diagnose, repair and enhance the finest vehicles from Stuttgart.
With the growth of electric and hybrid vehicles, we’ve invested in the diagnostic equipment and advanced training to handle any vehicle and any service need that rolls into our facility. We’ve even installed EV chargers in our parking lot for your convenience.
We don’t know what tomorrow will bring, but you can rest assured…no matter which Porsche you drive, or how you drive it, we’ll keep you charging ahead.
The new—and improved—Bloom Salon is welcoming clients in the heart of downtown Westport.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
IN BLOOM
photo by John Videler
Nikki Stanek and Alyssa Nicolett founded Bloom Salon in 2022, nearly five years after they first met at a hair salon in Stamford. Alyssa was interviewing Nikki for a role, “and we joked that it took two hours,” says Alyssa with a laugh. They bonded instantly. They discovered they had similar visions for what they wanted a salon to be— they both wanted a strong emphasis on education, and to build a community for both clients and stylists. Over time, their vision came together, and three years ago Bloom opened in a space on the Post Road near Stop & Shop.
The salon was an immediate hit. With Alyssa’s deep bench of color knowledge and Nikki’s expertise in Invisible Bead Extensions (she is a two-time Invisible Bead Award winner), Bloom expanded faster than they ever imagined. In just two short years, they had outgrown their Post Road salon. So when a space opened downtown, at 14 Elm Street, Nikki and Alyssa moved fast. In December of 2024, they opened the new, larger Bloom to clients.
The stunning new space took some of the signatures from their former location— floral wallpaper, jade green— and amped it up, in a look Nikki calls “alternative luxury.” You feel it from the moment you step inside, where a gallery wall and gold velvet couch invite you to embrace the vibes. “It is one of my favorite parts in the space,” says Nikki. “It shows who we are as a team. It’s kind of weird and out there, but also very cohesive and put together.”
The new space also allowed them to hone in on an aesthetic that best fits Bloom as a brand. “When we originally started Bloom, it was green and pink in a girly way. As we've grown, we figured out the vibe that we wanted to portray,” says Nikki. “Now, it’s more green with splashes of pink. It’s darker, moodier.”
CONTINUED >
photo by John Videler
Nikki Stanek and Alyssa Nicolett.
And it’s much bigger: they now have 16 stylist stations that are all moveable, which gives them enough room to host up to 50 people for trainings and educations. The floorplan allows the emphasis on education— what they originally bonded over— to remain at the core of what they do. Being downtown is another boon for Bloom: the views of Church Lane’s brick exteriors from the salon chairs have been charming clients and stylists alike.”We’re all very excited to be here,” says Nikki. “Our team loves the downtown atmosphere. They keep saying this is the salon that we deserve.”
Alyssa, Nikki, and their amazing team can’t wait for clients new and old to experience the new Bloom. ”It’s an inviting and fun atmosphere,” says Alyssa. “We love to service our clients and make people feel good. Everyone that works here is very passionate about what they do, and we're here to make work enjoyable. We're all here to have a good time!”
Bloom Salon is now open at 14 Elm St. For more, visit bloomsalonwestport.com
photo by John Videler
Bloom also sells custom merch.
Photo by John Videler
photo by John Videler
THE GALLERY WALL
Inspiration for every style.
ARTICLE BY JEN BERNIKER
Got a big, blank wall begging for some love? A thoughtfully curated gallery wall can transform your photos or mementos (think small works of art or a napkin from your first date) into a visual masterpiece, adding warmth and a little whimsy to your home. But where do you begin?
We've gathered inspiration from local creatives along with practical tips to help turn your #gallerywallgoals into reality.
A gallery wall using the color blue as a unifying theme. Photo by Stacy Bass, Design by KKB Interiors.
Example of an Organic Cluster featuring abstract art.
Photo by Sean Litchfield, Design by Amy Courtney Design.
Photo by Stacy Bass, Design by Allison Caccoma Interiors.
Example of a Grid Style Gallery using antique botanical prints. Photo by Stacy Bass, Design by Susan Heidenberg Interiors.
Example of a Grid Style wall in the Westport home of photographer Maya Porrino.Photo and Design by Maya Porrino Photography
Black and white frames unify this gallery wall in the Westport home of Matt and Kalyn Jahansouz. Photo and Design by homeowner Matt Jahansouz.
A linear gallery featuring kids photographed every 2 years in the home of Shannon Vindiola, founder of Yozo Studio. Photo by Mia Vindiola.
1. Pick a Theme: For a cohesive look, focus on a color palette, like black-and-white photography, or a subject matter, like travel photos, family portraits, or vintage prints.
2. Play with Layouts: Grids look polished with samesized pieces, or Linear, a straight row, gives a minimalist vibe. Organic Clusters, are artful, freeform mixes. Anchor with your largest piece, hung off center, and fill in with smaller pieces for balance. A little negative space avoids a cluttered feel.
3. Frame It Up: For a modern aesthetic, try sleek black and/or white frames. For an eclectic feel, mix wood, metal, and painted frames of different sizes and shapes. Pro tip: limit to 2-3 colors, to avoid chaos.
4. Think Outside the Box: A creative gallery can incorporate fun items like baskets, mirrors, sconces, or float-framed mementos like sports jerseys or your baby’s first bloomers.
Author Jen Berniker
Before you begin:
Plan before you break out the hammer. Lay out your pieces on the floor, then make a painter’s tape guide on the wall. Now let your imagination run wild and get busy curating!
Jen Berniker, shot by Maya P
An eclectic mix of family memories in the home of Lori Cochran, Director of the Westport Farmer's Market.
A linear gallery featuring kids photographed every 2 years in the home of Shannon Vindiola, founder of Yozo Studio. Photo by Mia Vindiola.
Heart Heart TO
HOW WESTPORT'S KERRI ROSENTHAL BUILT A LIFESTYLE BRAND THAT'S ALL ABOUT LOVE.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY VANESSA ROJO DE LA VEGA
Kerri Rosenthal didn’t go to art school. She didn’t go to design school. The impetus to start her eponymous lifestyle brand came from—of all places— a restaurant in Greenwich. Kerri was out to eat with her husband and found herself transfixed by a painting hanging near their table. “I just couldn’t stop looking at it,” she tells Westport Lifestyle. “I came home and the next day I woke up, went to the art store, bought art supplies, and set up a little art studio next to the boiler in the windowless basement of our house in Weston. I started painting.
And it unleashed something so intense and passionate in me that I had no idea was there. I didn’t stop painting for a year.”
Friends loved Kerri’s growing collection of original art, and after that first year, she and her husband decided to do a one-weekendonly pop-up sale in downtown Westport. “I sold all of my paintings,” she recalls. The seeds for what would become the Kerri Rosenthal brand had been planted. She built herself a real studio— with windows— and started taking orders for commissioned paintings. Interior designers would come to purchase her work, and ask if she did interiors as well. She never had— but she’s not the type to let that stop her. She teamed up with a partner and launched their own interior design business.
While Kerri may not have a traditional art background, she did have creative roots to draw on during these pursuits: her pre-kids career had been as the president of Oilily, a Dutch children’s clothing company. “They were a lifestyle brand before that term even existed— it was such a creative, colorful, cool place,” she says. “The brand seeped into my blood. It really was the biggest influence for me on an artistic level.”
With what she’d learned at Oilily, she felt ready to take Kerri Rosenthal out of her home and into the Westport world. Her first storefront opened in 2016 in Sconset Square, where she sold her art and curated clothing from labels she loved. “We called it the concept shop,” she says. The brand kept growing, and Kerri’s daughter Ali, who worked in the fashion industry, came on board. (“One day she asked ‘mom, can I just come help you grow your art business?’” Kerri recalls.) With Ali in the mix, expanding into apparel was a natural fit. “We looked at each other and we're like, we should be making our own clothing at this point.” They designed small-batch cashmere sweaters and added those to the growing collection. When COVID hit, the already sky-high demand went through the stratosphere. “Our messaging— because it's so emotional and real and people couldn't see their family
members— was just huge at that time,” says Kerri. “We decided we needed an even bigger space.” And that’s when they found what would become the Kerri Rosenthal flagship, at 181 Main Street. Not only was it a charming, house-style set-up that fit Kerri’s aesthetic, it was the very space they had rented for the first pop-up sale of her art, back in 2009. “It’s the best full-circle story ever,” says Kerri. Since the flagship opened in 2021, Kerri Rosenthal is bigger than ever. Kerri has 25 employees, a warehouse in Norwalk, and an office space off the Post Road. The brand has expanded into home decor, clothing and accessories, stationary, and so much more. Last year, Kerri launched an exclusive collaboration with Bobbi Brown Beauty, which features her iconic Beauty Is Love painting as the basis for the collection of products and packaging. “My team takes the art and reworks it for everything we make— whether it’s a coffee mug, a baseball hat, a sweater, a pillow, a wallpaper, eyeshadow packaging— it all comes from a painting,” she says.
That art is at the soul of what she does speaks to the connection Kerri’s customers have with her brand. “My drippy heart was one of the first paintings I did, and it was almost virally accepted,” she says. “Everything I paint comes from a happy place, and it’s become a tool to make me feel happy on the inside, too. And that turns around and affects other people, so they have this emotional connection to [the work]. It’s a brand based on love, and it all happened organically.”
You can find Kerri Rosenthal items in other places, of course— at Anthropologie, and Unsubscribed, or as part of her Breast Cancer Awareness collection with Bloomingdale’s— but there’s something special about walking into her Westport flagship and seeing the home-grown success of the brand. “Creating collaboratively with wonderful people who have become like family– that’s what makes me happy,” says Kerri. “We keep growing, and we’re all in it together.”
For more, visit kerrirosenthal.com
Invites you to treat yourself to the ultimate luxury this year: We spend our time freeing yours.
Based in Westport and serving a national clientele, we find the best-in-class staff for the home, office a nd family office.
Rob Vaccaro Tom Ayres
Mark Wilhelm Eli Zimmer Peter Dell’Olio
A NEW Hope
A PEEK AT THE RECENTLY-RENOVATED GILLESPIE CENTER AND HOSKINS PLACE.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VIDELER
Homes With Hope, the nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness in Fairfield County, has operated The Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place (emergency shelters for men and women respectively) along with their food pantry, since 1984. But the space, located at 45 Jesup Road, wasn’t serving the people who needed it as well as CEO Helen McAlinden knew it could. For one thing, the women’s dormitory was only able to access the community room by going outside. Or take the food pantry— it was held in a dark space that volunteers and employees often struggled to lug large, heavy donations up to. In 2024, Homes With Hope began a major, $1 million renovation, and in January of 2025, it officially reopened. “We redesigned the whole thing so that everything is client-centered,” explains Helen. “Everybody has the same access to the community room, and everybody has an opportunity to live more comfortably.”
In the downstairs space, the women now can easily access the community room, where “every night somebody from a synagogue, a church, or a community group makes the food [we serve], so it’s made with love in somebody's home,” says Helen. “It's a great opportunity for our community to build relationships—sometimes you see the families eating with the people that we serve. It's special.” (To sign up to donate food, go to hwhct.org/food). The renovated space has room for four women and 15 men in the dormitories, as well as overflow beds for one extra woman and up to three extra men, and an isolation room if needed. All the bathrooms were updated to be ADA compliant, and there are new quilts on the beds donated by Southern Connecticut Modern Quilt Guild. “We really believe in treating people with dignity and respect,” says Helen.
The food pantry
Perhaps the biggest changes came to the food pantry. There’s now a dumbwaiter that can carry up to 300 pounds up and down the stairs, which is hugely helpful for shoppers, employees, and volunteers with large loads of food. The room itself has been updated— the previous version had no heat or A/C, the new one has both— and there are new shelving units and bright windows. The way the food pantry works has changed, too. Previously, “we'd pack a bag of non-perishable items and we would take it down to the clients,” says Katharine Murray, the Director of Marketing and Development. “But quite often we would find people rummaging through the bags, taking out things they might not prefer, or things they might be allergic to. We were giving them what we thought they wanted, versus knowing what they wanted.” Thanks to research done in partnership with Sacred Heart University, the model is now that clients come and “shop” like they would in any other market, once a week. And it’s not just non-perishables anymore: thanks to a new refrigeration and freezing system, the pantry can offer fresh foods including vegetables, fruit, cheese, milk, butter, and meat, donated by partners including Trader Joe’s, The Westport Farmer’s Market, Wakeman Town Farm, and the Greens Farms Garden Club. Stew Leonard’s also donates baked goods once a week. “And the other thing that we have, which is really important to our clients, is personal hygiene and
household products. We did not have those before,” says Katharine. The expanded offerings have expanded their reach, too: “We've doubled—nearly tripled— the amount of people we're serving. It’s now around 120 shoppers each week, which is cascaded across families to about 500 people,” Katharine says. To support their pantry, donations are always needed, and you can see what’s most in demand at hwhct.org/food-1
The new Gillespie Center and Hoskins Place facilities are welcoming not just for their clients— Helen is happy to show anyone who would like to tour around. (You can reach her at 475-2255292.) Another good example of their neighborly spirit is the new meeting room upstairs, which Katharine says will be used both for trainings for Homes With Hope staff and volunteers as well as made available for other nonprofits in the area. “Lots of people are looking for amazing space, and we can share ours with the community,” says Katharine. Her attitude speaks to the core of what Homes With Hope does. “Not everyone has a home—including people in Westport—and for those people, this place is a refuge,” says Helen. “This is a place to be taken care of from A to Z, and to get back on your feet.”
To donate, volunteer, or for more information, visit hwhct.org
A bed with a quilt donated by Southern Connecticut Modern Quilt Guild.
CEO Helen McAlinden.
A renovated dormitory.
and Jen Are the Team to Choose
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
THE NOMAD-IC LIFESTYLE
HOW ONE OF WESTPORT'S MOST ICONIC RESTAURANTS GOT ITS SIGNATURE STYLE.
You can recreate Nômade's tablescapes with the kitchenwares at Nômade Design.
Customers love the unique interior design at Nômade.
Nômade in Westport only opened three years ago, but it has become an integral part of the Westport dining scene. That’s in no small part thanks to owner Patrick Jean, who began his career in the restaurant industry as a teen in his native France. “The first time I went to a fancy restaurant, I was impressed by everything. I told my mom ‘that’s what I want to do. I want to be in a restaurant,’” he says. He’s worked in dining ever since. He came to the U.S. in 1995, and ended up in Westport two years later, working at a bistro downtown. He met his then-business partner and the two opened Saint Tropez Bistro in Fairfield, followed by O Bar in 2001. O Bar was the first martini bar of its kind in Fairfield, and a huge success. From there, Patrick worked at a string of other restaurants across Fairfield County, until the location that would become Nômade opened up. Ciara Webster contacted Patrick and they went to look at the space. "I couldn’t let the opportunity to be an owner again pass me by, and we decided to open Nômade," says Patrick.
Patrick and Ciara became business partners and began concepting what they wanted their restaurant to be— Patrick really wanted a Mediterranean concept and Ciara loved Asian food. Ciara took on a huge research project to fuse the two cuisines and create the around-the-world menu the restaurant would launch with. The eclectic menu also inspired the name, Nômade. “The menu goes from place to place— it’s a world traveler,” he says. Their chef, Zoli, loved the idea, and became a partner in the business as well.
The next step for Nômade was to have the interior of the restaurant reflect that same globetrotter ethos.”I wanted it to look like a vacation,” says Patrick about the initial ideas for the vibe in the space. Ciara has a strong eye for interiors and she began sourcing pieces from Africa, where she was born, to give the restaurant a global feeling. The design also included a nod to Patrick’s beloved, now defunct O Bar— the lounge area over by the bar where guests enter was something from O Bar that he specifically wanted to recreate in
the new space. They focused on making the interior of the restaurant light (think blonde woods and earth tones) bright (they added a ton of front-facing windows to offer views of Main Street) and green (they’ve been recognized by the town for their commitment to solar energy and eco-friendly design). They also added their convertible patio, which offers outdoor seating in the summer months, can be enclosed in the winter, and includes a larger bar area for watching games or latenight drinks. “We wanted to create two bars- one more relaxing, and one for sports, TV, and music,” Patrick says. The space offers so many types of environments, and was just what Westport needed.
When Nômade officially opened in 2022, customers loved everything— especially Ciara’s design choices. “I love the warmness and the welcomeness and the energy here,” Patrick says. “Each time I look at the details I think: everything is beautiful.” He’s not alone-- diners are constantly asking if they can purchase the décor. “I’ve had so many people asking: where can I get the glasses, can I buy them from you?” says Patrick. And while they sadly can’t sell items from the restaurant floor, Ciara did their customers one better— she teamed up with Ciara Connolly to open a store just down the block, Nômade Design, earlier this year. At Nômade Design, they sell many of the exact items used inside Nômade, including plates, flatware, glasses and more, as well as other pieces with a similar style. “I wasn’t surprised when people loved the decor at Nômade— I love the decor!,” Ciara Webster says. “But the reaction was even better than I thought. I think the store will bring something unique to Westport, because I’ve traveled so much and can bring in all those influences.”
In addition to the kitchenware used at the restaurant, Nômade Design offers clothing, furniture, and even lab-grown diamonds. Everything is sourced (no reproductions!).
“It’s all really special,” says Ciara.
To make reservations at Nômade, call 203-577-9577. To shop Nômade Design for the look in your own home, visit the boutique at 190 Main Street or call 203-293-4010.
Nômade Design, at 190 Main Street.
The mimosa glasses at Nômade are a crowdfavorite: get them at Nômade Design.
“THE MENU GOES FROM PLACE TO PLACE— IT’S A WORLD TRAVELER.”
Thank you for voting us best event planner three years in a row! It is such a gift to get to work with so many incredible clients producing unique experiences & events! We are so thankful to be able to do what we love and to be part of such a supportive community.
XO, Sarah
Photo by Leila Brewster Photography
At Home in the Mountains
The Mohonk Experience
Mohonk Mountain House has been a cherished part of my life since childhood. Its mountaintop setting and timeless charm have always drawn me back, summer after summer. Days spent lounging by the lake, enjoying picnics at The Granary, and exploring the rock scrambles and hiking trails are among my fondest memories. But this winter, I discovered an entirely new side to this storied retreat. Just after the New Year, my husband, children, father, and sister joined me for a winter escape during Wine Week—a perfectly timed getaway that gave us the pause we all needed after the holiday rush. From breathtaking scenery to exceptional food and activities for every member of the family, it was the perfect destination for a multi-generational family trip.
A WARM WELCOME
We arrived Friday evening, just in time to catch the Winter Lights display. The glowing installations created a magical atmosphere for an evening stroll. Dinner in the Main Dining Room followed, featuring a menu with something for everyone,
from house-made pasta to fresh seafood and perfectly cooked steaks. Afterward, we settled into the Parlor to enjoy live music, the perfect way to unwind and ease into the weekend.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Saturday morning began with a hearty breakfast in the Main Dining Room, offering everything from fresh pastries to made-to-order omelets. While my husband and kids headed to the ice-skating pavilion, I took some time to unwind at the spa. The Contrast Hydrotherapy Massage was just what I needed—a rejuvenating blend of steam, cooling showers, and a massage with CBD-infused oils that left me completely refreshed. Later in the afternoon, the adults headed to a wine tasting hosted by Kevin Zraly, a renowned wine educator and author. His approachable style made the tasting fun and informative as we sampled Southern Hemisphere wines paired with hors d’oeuvres crafted by Mohonk’s culinary team. Meanwhile, the kids enjoyed an afternoon of activities at the kids’ club, giving them
This winter, I discovered an entirely new side to this storied retreat.
If you’re looking for a winter or spring retreat, Mohonk Mountain House is a fantastic option.
their own adventure while we savored ours. Each week Mohonk offers a unique theme, so no matter what time of year you visit, there will always be an exciting experience to enjoy. From wellness retreats and cooking demonstrations to nature programs and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.
A SIMPLE, MEMORABLE EVENING
Saturday night brought another incredible dining experience, this time featuring a New Zealand-inspired menu. After enjoying dinner together, we all headed to the Parlor to listen to the live music of Los Chantas, a talented tango ensemble. The warm and inviting atmosphere made it a relaxing and enjoyable way to end the evening as a family.
SUNDAY FUN AND FAREWELL
Sunday was all about snow tubing, quickly becoming the weekend’s highlight for both kids and adults. We spent
the morning racing up and down the mountain, squeezing in what felt like 25 runs before reluctantly calling it a day. Before heading home, we enjoyed one last lunch together—a simple and satisfying meal that gave us the chance to talk about our favorite moments from the weekend. The short one-and-a-half-hour drive back to Westport was a nice transition back to reality, leaving us refreshed and ready to jump back into everyday life.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
If you’re looking for a winter or spring retreat, Mohonk Mountain House is a fantastic option. Through April 29, 2025, they’re offering a Spa Getaway Package that includes 30 percent off your stay, a $230 spa credit per person, spa amenity access, and 15 percent off treatments. The package is available midweek, with a two-night minimum stay and breakfast and dinner included. For more information visit mohonk.com
INNOVATION MEETS
ARTISTRY
Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.
According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS
“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner. I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”
THE HEART OF THE HOME
Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.
Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.
“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and
advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”
Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.
“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”
Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.
“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 1ST
Native Gardens
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct | 3:00 PM
A comedy about neighbors who feud over their backyards is relatable fodder for many suburbanites, and that's exactly what Native Gardens, a play by Karen Zacarías, explores. Native Gardens is part of the Playhouse's "Season of Laughter." The show runs through March 8. Tickets from $40, at westportplayhouse.org
MARCH 1ST
Resonating Earth
Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road 2:00 PM
Pianist Carolyn Enger will do a live performances to accompany the ambient soundscape of her film, Resonant Earth, in the Trefz Forum. Register at westportlibrary.org
MARCH 4TH
Air-Borne
Westport Library, 20 Jesup Rd | 7:00 PM
Author Carl Zimmer will discuss his new book Air-Borne, all about the air we breathe and the sometimes-dan gerous life hidden in it, with West porters in this event, part of the Anne Eyes Lecture series.
MARCH 16TH
The Hudson Arts Ensemble Sunday Concert
The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road 2:00 PM
Come to the library for this fami ly-friendly concert, featuring trum pet and piano players performing the works of famous French composers. The event is free, but registration is recommended at westportibrary.org
STEP BEHIND THE SCENES
WITH HAIR TEAM LEAD ODETE DASILVA
FASHION WEEK
CONTINUED
MARCH 22ND
Westport Writers’ Workshop Pitch & Publish Conference
The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road
Aspiring authors can attend panels on writing and publishing, pitch their book (including submitting up to five pages to agents), and hear author Amy Shearn as keynote speaker. There's also a Friday night welcome party, book signings, catered lunch, and a Saturday evening wrap party. Tickets from $350, at westportwriters.org
MARCH 25TH
Theatre People
Westport Country Playhouse | 7:00 PM
In 2023, the Playhouse staged a Script In Hand reading of Connecticut-born playwright Paul Slade Smith's Theatre People. It was a riotous hit, and they've brought it back as a fully produced production, directed by Mark Shanahan. The screwball comedy is an adaptation of Ferenc Molnár’s “Play at the Castle." Through April 12. Tickets from $40, at westportplayhouse.org
