DESIGN +DECOR
CONNECTICUT NEW JERSEY NEW YORK
the great outdoors issue
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DISPLAY UNTIL 07/27/20
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DESIGN +DECOR
CONNECTICUT NEW JERSEY NEW YORK
VOLUME 17 ISSUE 3 | 2020
38
A Welcoming Embrace
An architect and his clients challenge themselves to create a residential chef-d’oeuvre on a hilltop in Massachusetts. Story by Alder Grove Photography by Dan Cutrona
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Staying at Home in Style The 2020 Outdoor Issue Story by Susan Winlow
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The Gables of Fairfield County
A complete exterior remodel results in a breathtaking vacation residence in the Connecticut countryside. Story by Alder Grove Photography by Carl Vernlund
DEPARTMENTS 14 Editors Letter 29 Ask the Experts 96 Profile
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Melange In the Field
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DESIGN +DECOR
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Monaco Monaco, a waterjet mosaic shown in polished Dolomite, Carrara, Cornflower Glazed Basalto, and brushed Aluminum, is part of the VOLUME 16 17 ISSUE ISSUE 33 -- 2019 2020 VOLUME Liliane™ Collection by Caroline Beaupere for New Ravenna. Editor-in-Chief newravenna.com Editor-in-Chief
Matthew Matthew J.J. Kolk Kolk mattkolk@me.com mattkolk@me.com 203-820-1092 203-820-1092 Managing Managing Editor Editor James James Eagen Eagen
Contributing Contributing Writers Writers Lisa Gant, Susan Heller, Gersh, Deborah Brannon, Lisa Gant, SusanPam Heller, Alder Grove, KaitStelzer-Worth, Shea, AnastasiaKait Storer, Anna Wirth Storer Anna von Shea, Anastasia
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Sika Armchair
Contributing Contributing Photographers Photographers Sika is a deer specimen Jane Beiles, Michael rooted in Japan whose Jane Beiles, Michael Biondo, Biondo, Phillip Phillip Ennis, Ennis, Tria Tria Giovan, Giovan, John Gruen, Paul Johnson, Neil Landino, strength and elegance John Gruen, John Hannon, Paul Johnson, Neil Landino, Mark La Tim Rosa,Lee, TimDaniel Lee, Daniel Milstein, inspired Sika wingback chair. Mark La Rosa, Milstein, Janice Parker, Durston Striffler, most distinctive features Durston Saylor, Saylor, Debra Debra Somerville, Somerville, Eric EricThe Striffler, Jonathan of this wing chair are the Jonathan Wallen, Wallen, Woodruff/Brown Woodruff/Brown Photography Photography Copy Copy Editor Editor Elena Elena Serocki Serocki
button detailing in the inner back, the nailhead trim and the brass details of the arms. covethouse.eu
Graphic Graphic & & Web Web Design Design East East Coast Coast Home Home Publishing Publishing
Publisher Group Publisher Shelley Shelley E. E. McCormick McCormick sm@dd-mag.com sm@dd-mag.com 203-545-7091 203-545-7091 AccountCT/NJ/NY Manager Publisher Alessandra Alessandra Flanagan Flanagan af@dd-mag.com Account Managers Design + Decor Aileen Gardner 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Anita Watkins
Naples, Florida 34113 Fax: 203-286-1850 Design + Decor 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Naples, Florida 34113
Design + Decor is published six issues per year. To subscribe: www.dd-mag.com; Subscriptions: one year, $28; two years, $50. Back issues can be purchased at www.dd-mag.com. For editorial inquiries: Editor, Design + Decor, 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Naples, Florida 34113 or e-mail: mattkolk@me.com. For advertising inquiries: Please call Shelley McCormick at 203-545-7091. Reproduction whole or in partsix without is prohibited. projects described in this pubDesign + Decor is published issuespermission per year. To subscribe: All www.dd-mag.com; Subscriptions: lication are$28; for private, noncommercial use only. for commercial use or exploitation are one year, two years, $50. Back issues canNo berights purchased at www.dd-mag.com. For editogiven or implied. TheDesign opinions expressed writersCircle for articles by Design + Decor are rial inquiries: Editor, + Decor, 7485byInspira #1203published Naples, Florida 34113 or e-mail: not necessarily those of the mattkolk@me.com. For advertising inquiries: Please callmagazine. Shelley McCormick at 203-545-7091.
N
Reproduction whole or in part without permission is prohibited. All projects described in this publication are for private, noncommercial Lapiaz use only. Sideboard No rights for commercial use or exploitation are given implied. Sideboard The opinions expressed by from writers one for articles published by Design + Decor are TheorLapiaz originates of Boca do Lobo’s iconic design not necessarily those of the magazine.
pieces. Based on the same aesthetic that created a legacy, the Lapiaz SideEAST COAST HOME PUBLISHING board takes exceptional design to a new realm. Consisting 7485 craftsmanship Inspira Circleand #1203 EASTLapiaz COAST HOMEinPUBLISHING of two individual modules, is finished polished stainless steel that Naples,the Florida 34113 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 portarys a perfect mirror, with a poplar root wood veneer interior. DD-MAG.COM Naples, Florida 34113 bocadolobo.com DD-MAG.COM
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EDITOR’S LETTER
DESIGN +DECOR CONNECTICUT / NEW JERSEY / NEW YORK | SOUTHEAST FLORIDA | SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
INSTAGRAM TAKEOVER
DURING THIS TIME OF “WORK-FROM-HOME”, WE GET A LITTLE BORED, A LITTLE GITTY (MAYBE A LITTLE TIPSY!?!) AND NEED SOME RELEASE FROM THE CONSTANT NEWS VIEWING. IN LIGHT OF THIS, WE ASKED SOME OF OUR MARKETING PARTNERS TO SUBMIT THEIR “WORK-FROM-HOME” PHOTOS AND A LITTLE CAPTION. SOME ARE INSPIRATIONAL, SOME ARE SILLY, BUT THEY ARE ALL IN GOOD CLEAN FUN. ENJOY, LIKE AND COMMENT!
I
n March, when the COVID-19 crisis started to become a new reality globally, Shelley and I had a conversation on what we could do to support our community from afar. Should we simply go dark for a few months? How do we connect the shelter community with the reader in a thoughtful, kind way? Could and Should quickly turned into “What ARE we going to do”. The shelter industry is truly a “cando” industry. The only thing we all collectively do is create. (with style of course!) In last months Publishers letter from Alessandra, our CT/NJ/NY Publisher wrote: “That’s what it comes down to here at Design + Décor: to be an anchor in
the community, to create connections, to curate a message of the best in design, and to give the reader an experience. That is our why.” We took Alessandras context and expanded upon it in a manner that we believe is at the core of who Design + Decor is as a group of publications: we took to our Instagram page to allow our community to tell their own stories. This is a two months long editors letter, as told by our clients throughout the worst of this crisis. We are so pleased with the overwhelming response and the sometimes kind, sometimes inspirational and sometimes funny quotes we received. We feel that this not only maintained a connection between our community and the reader, but also gave some insight from one industry person to another that we are all feeling the same way. This connection is so easily lost in isolation. We hope you enjoy our greatly expanded editors letter and please stay healthy and safe,
Matthew J. Kolk Editor in chief
To see the entire campaign and the projects submitted that accompany each post, go to our instagram page: design_decor_mag
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March 24th
March 25th
Middlefield, CT
Lisa Davenport - LDD Interiors
Day 4 of working from home, ... I’m doing much better than I expected ... except when I look in the mirror and realize I’m not getting to the salon for a month, which means everyone is going to find out I’m not a natural blonde anymore!
March 25th
Naples, FL
Thomas Jones - Jenny Lona WDG Architecture
Practice social distancing with us – if you don’t have a tape measure, find your latest CVS receipt.
West Palm Beach, FL
Gil Walsh - Julie Sierputoski Gil Walsh Interiors
Technology now allows people to connect anytime, anywhere, to anyone in the world, from almost any device...just be sure it’s sanitized!
Keep Calm & Design On folks ... we’ll get through this!
March 26th
March 26th
Naples, FL
Gaby Saad - Real Wood Floors
Working at the showroom rather than from home keeps me away from the refrigerator every 10 min…
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March 27th
Greenwich, CT
Peter Sciarretta Hemingway Construction
During this time, I’ve learned that home is truly where the heart is. Especially with lots of Purell.
Palm Beach, FL
Andrea Fava - Motivo Home
Still very busy working with new projects and spending downtime with the family. Coffee until wine is keeping us energized and sane, but check back with us next week, when home schooling starts!
5/19/20 6:01 PM
March 27th
March 30th
Glen Cove, NY
Barbara Lewis The Lewis Design Group Multi tasking with a work station/bar station
March 31st
Wilton, CT
Chris Pagliaro Christopher Pagliaro Architects Zoomin’ it: Maria Defiore (Ring’s end) Architects: Me Rick Tomasetti Carol Kurth George Dumitru
April 1st
Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Krista Watterworth Alterman Krista + Home
I actually put on some makeup today and got out of my sweats for an early Zoom meeting with my team!
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March 30th
Greenwich, CT
Amy Andrews - Hilton Interiors
Me In a Zoom meeting! Working from home! Not that glam!
April 2nd
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Jaime Blomquist Jaime Blomquist Interiors
Practicing Six Feet of Social Distancing
West Palm Beach, FL
Brett Benson D. Brett Benson Vintage Jewelry
Preparing for brighter days, together we will get through this, it’s in the bag!
5/19/20 6:01 PM
April 3rd
April 8th
West Palm Beach, FL
Erik Eberhardt Millers Fine Hardware
We’re on our new corner & waiting to see you!
April 9th
Old Greenwich, CT
Beth Krupa - Beth Krupa Interiors
We have had clients, suppliers, media, all reach out with supportive wishes as we all learn new virtual skills to help make your homes your personal sanctuaries. Times such as these make us value our ties and relationships more than ever and we’ll all be forever closer as we weather through.
April 10th
April 13th
Brookfield, CT
JP Acosta - Delgado Stone
Continuing to work with our customers across the country while doing our part to stay home and flatten the curve. Stay safe and healthy, we will all get through this together!
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Scarsdale, NY
Lara Michelle Lara Michelle Interior Design
My 3 easy tips to help stay sane while staying at home: 1) De-clutter. Nothing adds to stress more then clutter, I promise you’ll feel so good when you’re done! 2) Move/dance! Only 15 mins of moving to your favorite tunes will really brighten your mood! 3) Find a quiet spot for at least 10 minutes of meditation, journaling, or drawing. These quiet activities are known to be extremely therapeutic
April 14th
Stamford, CT
Katie Canfield - Studio KC
If it weren’t for Instagram I wouldn’t have had a reason to change out of my workout clothes today. I’m forging ahead on projects old and new. Learning to adapt to video conference presentations and spending a lot less time in the car.
Fairfield County, CT
Andrea Romeo Romeo Baglio Design
Still very busy working with new projects and spending downtime with the family. Coffee until wine is keeping us energized and sane, but check back with us next week, when home schooling starts!
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April 15th
April 16th
Fairfield, CT
Alexis Parent Alexis Parent Interiors
I’m lucky enough to have a serene workspace in my home. It allows me to stay focused on my current projects and further develop my business with marketing for the future...In pink socks of course. I am excited for what is ahead!
April 21st
Morristown, NJ
David Spence Windigo Architecture + Design
By now I’m sure everyone is feeling their home’s blessings and its shortcomings. It’s become our work place, our restaurant, our vacation. But our home has always been, and most importantly, our safe place and sanctuary.
April 22nd
Naples, FL
Gregory Palmer - Harrison Design
Luckily, we were considered essential services (crazy I know!) and have been able to work from the office (while still practicing social distancing of course). So the photo is from the office and it’s of my desk which is currently a mess, Baxter is on my lap (he didn’t get the social distancing memo) and he is enjoying the slower pace and fewer client meetings.
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April 20th
West Palm Beach, FL
Denise Scruggs Heath and Company Lighting
Our doors are locked but we’re still working hard….. It’s a Shady Business!
April 23rd
Saint Petersburg, FL
Lisa Gilmore - Lisa Gilmore Design
I’m currently bouncing from my sofa, to the dining room table, to my front porch chaise lounge... staying sane with Peloton spin breaks, walks with my pup and happy hour that starts promptly at 5pm a few steps away in my kitchen!
Pompano Beach, FL
Perla Lichi - Perla Lichi Design
Working from home brings me back to my roots as interior designer -- It has made me realize even more how important my career has been and what an impact properly designed and balanced rooms have on your mind, body and soul,
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April 24th
April 27th
Hollywood, FL
North Salem, NY
Beth Arrowood - NIBA Designs
At NIBA, our Sales Team members are all working safely from home, giving virtual presentations and shipping samples to you. This not only keeps things moving locally but ensures the livelihood of entire villages that hand-craft the product we hold dearly to us. Thank you for your support. We are in this together!
April 29th
Alan Megerdichian Sequoia Contracting
Just doing a site check with my head of security to make sure everything is ok during this lockdown. Stay safe!
April 30th
Naples, FL
Lindsey Davis Nicklas L Design Studio
“Surrender to what is, let go of what was, and have faith in what will be.� -Sonia Ricotti
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April 28th
Mamaroneck, NY
Kathie Anechiarico Majestic Kitchens + Bath
Wishing everyone recovery, hope and light in this Season of Renewal!
May 1st
Naples, FL
Alina Spicer, Ryan Spicer and Fredrick the Lizard - AR Design
Day # 31 of quarantine, Alina, Ryan, & Fredrick (the office lizard) are surviving just fine.
Saint Petersburg, FL
William Braemer Art Fusion Galleries
Art Fusion Galleries St. Petersburg is more excited than ever to welcome the community back into the gallery! We hope in the meantime everyone is staying healthy and looking forward to joining us for future events.
5/19/20 6:01 PM
May 4th
May 5th
Rye, NY
Elissa Grayer Elissa Grayer Interior Design
I don’t know about you, but I find myself grateful for and loving my home more and more these days. I am so happy we are able to be up and running to help our clients love their homes again. Wishing good health all our design friends and their families!
May 7th
May 6th
New York, NY
Philip Gorrivan Philip Gorrivan Design
Philip has recently launched a remote interior design consultation service called ‘PGD Virtual Design Consultations’ which has allowed much more flexibility for the client and the team during these uncertain times. The service will help clients develop the design direction for their projects and can cover everything from a small room to an entire house.
May 8th
Ramsey, NJ
Diane Durocher Diane Durocher Interiors
During these unprecedented times, let’s focus on the good. On revamping our businesses, organizing our homes, learning a new skill, tending our gardens and connecting on a deeper level with our family and friends.
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New York, NY
Daniel Lombardi Roche Bobois
My home is my temple and I’m grateful to have a cozy home in the city where I feel safe and, can take all those productive zoom calls with the team and our clients, on my comfy Roche Bobois Presence sofa.
May 11th
New Canaan, CT
Katharine Kelly Rhudy Reed & Acanthus Interior Design
Even though we’re working from home, that doesn’t mean the “creative juices” aren’t flowing! We’re speaking with clients virtually, providing moodboards and renderings and (optimistically) planning site visits for June. Looking forward to brighter days ahead!!
Stratford, CT
Melissa Spoelstra Blueprint Dreams
Pre-quarantine life was pretty busy, this “pause” has been a blessing in disguise. I have learned to slow down and enjoy this moment in time with my family. I hope you have found this time a blessing too. Stay Focused, Stay Positive, and Stay Hope-filled!
5/19/20 6:02 PM
May 12th
May 13th
Sandy Hook, CT
Nancy King - Seventy Acres
ZOOM, ZOOM, ZOOM! Who knew Spring 2020 was going to make us so technologically savvy??!! Seventy Acres Landscape Architecture is full speed ahead and now offering 3D Lumion Renderings to our Master Plan Clients to fully visualize our landscape designs.
May 15th
Norwalk, CT
Rina DiMarte Chloe Winston Lighting
We’re making the best of each day - helping customers by appointment in our showroom, via FaceTime and visiting job sites.
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May 14th
Southport, CT
Meghan DeMaria and Courtney Yanni Moss Design
Greenwich, CT
Charlotte Barnes Charlotte Barnes Design
Our company mantra is ‘Live a Great Story.’ Sometimes some sections are written for you, like the current covid crisis but we can still make the best of any situation. Working with your best friend on a beautiful day doing what you love and helping people to enjoy their homes is a great story.
While #shelteringinplace I find looking back is the way forward... #favoriteroom #whiteonwhite #whatisoldisnewagain #oneofmyfirsts #antiques #itsallaboutthemix #traditionalbutnot #charlottebarnesdesign As far as my office - its all about the kitchen right now, and piles of papers …
May 16th
May 17th
Purchase, NY
Dorye Brown - Dorye Brown Interiors
Dedicated to Jean and Michele. These 2 amazing ladies are not only wonderful clients, but brave physicians on the front lines. How fortunate we are to have them out there each day braving this storm. And thank you to my dear family friend, Charlie Cooper who took these porch photos. Super talented at age 15 and volunteering his time to a great cause.
Wilton, CT
Mike Paolello - Westwood Flooring
Being able to adapt and follow the guidelines will get us through these unprecedented times. Stay safe everyone.
5/19/20 6:02 PM
May 18th
May 19th
Naples, FL
Reagan and Danny Geschardt Geschardt Art - Broome Street Studios
We are finding out ways to be creative within the structure of our business at this time. We feel that it has given us a way to be more creative by thinking outside the box! Try to achieve something more that you didn’t have the time to do prior to this time. Try taking some risks with new ideas and take the extra time to reach out to as many people as you can. Communication with people during this time is necessary as we will all be more successful as a group creating new paths of how we communicate and achieve our goals.
May 21st
West Hartford, CT
Georgia Zikas Georgia Zikas Design
Interior Designer Georgia Zikas, juggling her work/life priorities while maintaining her firm’s many ongoing projects. Juggling is a required skill!
May 22nd
New Rochelle, NY
Maria Loiacono Maria Loiacono Interiors
Face time, Netflix and watching the news ONLY once a day is keeping me balanced when everything around us is so unbalanced. Watching the world connect in such a irrefutable way and understanding we are all responsible for one another.
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May 20th
Westport, CT
Robert Cardello - Dave LaPierre Cardello Architects
RAC’s Monday morning zoom meeting reviewing the projects and checking in on each other. Although there are perks to working from home, #nobusycommute, #petsbyourside, we miss our beautiful new Westport office space. The Cardello staff is used to working together in a studio environment, but we’re making the best of it, and we’re grateful that we can practice our craft remotely. Designing homes while staying at home… we’ve got this. Be safe, everyone. May 23rd
Greenwich, CT
George Pusser Cornerstone Contracting
Safe progress in our process while staying dedicated to quality. Even through this quarantine we’ve been driven to excel and desiring for distinction.
New York, NY
Giovanni Zapata - Grupo Design NYC
Working from home during these hard times has given me a chance to share my passion with my family, as well as the opportunity to virtually get creative with clients. As Doe Zanaramata wrote, “It is only in our darkest hours that we may discover the true strength of the brilliant light within ourselves that can never, ever, be dimmed. Please keep going. And thanks to Design Decor for keep us updated in our profesión .
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MELANGE
SUMMER LOVIN’
THE FESTIVAL COLLECTION The Festival collection features playful stripes and scallops, a botanical cactus pattern, abstract geometrics, and a versatile solid woven texture with a supporting color line. thibautdesign.com
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SPLATTER AND SPINE DESERT PLATE Playful with brilliant splatters of yellow pigment, this sunny addition to our Melamine assortment will not only brighten y our dinnerware cabinet, but these dessert/salad plates are really great for snagging your selection of appetizers or a side salad, easy to clean and durable through all types of enjoyment. juliska.com
WHITEWASHED RATTAN HURRICANE An outdoor classic with a rich leather handle and a hurricane of recycled glass. Footed at the bottom for a slightly elevated silhouette. serenaandlily.com.com
SAMOA TWO-TIERED CHANDELLIER With a skirt woven from Abacรก rope, the Samoa Two-Tiered Chandelier will bring elemental style to a space. The wrought iron hardware in a gesso white finish brings the profile of this rope chandelier a light and airy feel. We also offer the Samoa in a pendant and a one-tiered chandelier. curreyandcompany.com
SARASOTA TABLE LAMP This table lamp is a must-have piece any style home. It is designed with an acrylic panel inlaid with a glossy natural seashell. It is finished with a linen shade and a tiered acrylic pedestal base. elegantstrand.com QUINTA CORK PARTY BUCKET With its rich textural warmth and streamlined classic shape, this bowl makes a statement upon every occasion - be it filled with ice cubes and gleaming bottles to serve a crowd or as a stunning centerpiece of flowers for grand effect. juliska.com
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ASK THE EXPERTS
DELGADO STONE Story by Bob Phillips
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Photo: New England Landscapes
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Photo: S.K. Complete Landscaping
W
e recently had the pleasure of visiting with Mike Wolfe, chief operating officer of Delgado Stone Distributors, located in Brookfield, CT. Mike shared his insights into emerging trends and creative projects utilizing stone. D+D: Tell us a little about your company and the products you carry. Mike: Delgado Stone was founded in 2011 by CEO Brendon Southard. We’ve become one of the premier stone distributors in the U.S., with over 110 dealers in 19 states. Our products are used in a wide variety of residential and commercial projects, including colleges and universities, hotels, vineyards and high-end residences. We specialize in natural stone products, landscape products, decorative pieces—anything made of natural stone. Our stone comes from throughout New England, including stone from our own quarry. We also have a 17,000-square-foot production facility. D+D: What trends do you see emerging in outdoor spaces utilizing your products? Mike: We’re seeing significant demand for large granite flagstone as more people are looking for unique patios and walkways. They want to match the stone with the veneer on their homes. Stone steps are also in high demand. D+D: With the world going through the COVID-19 crisis, what are
homeowners looking for with regard to their outdoor spaces? Mike: Homeowners are looking for an extension of their interior, since they are using their outdoor space more frequently. They’re also expanding their outdoor spaces to accommodate the need for social distancing. Because they’re spending more time outdoors, we’re seeing a higher demand for outdoor kitchens, pools with fire pits and fireplaces, and pergolas. D+D: What are currently your most popular products, and why? Mike: Large stand-up flagging and natural stone steps are trending right now, with people doing outside work. They’re unique, durable and sustainable. Our “Connecticut Blend” is in high demand as well. It’s a blend of stone taken from five different quarries in the state of Connecticut. People like the product as well as the story behind it. Fieldstone is also very popular. It’s harvested when space is cleared for a roadway or property; we find it throughout New England. D+D: Please share with us some of the most creative projects you’ve been involved in. Mike: Some of the most creative and unique projects we’ve been involved in recently have been fireplaces with accent pieces, elevation changes in pools, Design + Decor
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and projects utilizing stone to match pool and outdoor living areas with the exteriors of homes and kitchens. We believe in creativity with all our projects. Whether we’re working with a homeowner or a commercial property owner, we see the project as being unique to them and it being our job to help their vision become a reality. D+D: What are some unexpected features you’re seeing that utilize your product? Mike: The trend in fire pits is unique right now. People are taking giant slabs and carving the fire pit into the stone. We’ve also seen reclaimed granite steps being used to make fire pits. Also, more and more lake and beach houses are using flagstone for shower areas. D+D: With the rise in biophilic design, where the outdoors is being brought indoors through the use of natural materials, how is your product being utilized within the home? Mike: The trend is the continuation of the outside of the home into the interior, from the patio area to either the living space or the kitchen of the home. They’re blending the stone in these areas, making it a seamless transition by using the same material. Products once thought of as “outside only” are now being used on the inside, as well. Resource: Delgado Stone Mike Wolfe 55 Del Mar Drive Brookfield, CT 06804 203.775.2705 delgadostone.com
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IN THE FIELD
ABC STONE The Sustainability of Stone Stories by Alicia Raeburn
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S
tone is emerging at the forefront of the sustainable construction industry—and for good reason. “There are few materials that are more luxurious than natural stone. It’s a huge bonus that it contains no harmful chemicals or toxins, so the client can rest assured that the stone installed will be both healthy and unbelievably beautiful,” says Lyndsey Belle Tyler, Vice President of Marketing and Creative Director at ABC Stone. It’s this duality that makes stone so interesting: its ability to be both aesthetically pleasing and less harmful makes it an easy choice for many interior projects. Stone is ideal in kitchens, for instance. When marble, granite, or quartzite is used for a countertop, a cooking space is transformed into an elegant design aspect of the room. Slabs of uncut stone can also be mounted as a mantel or used to make a coffee table for a striking natural centerpiece. There are endless possibilities to incorporate stone into a home in an effortless and stunning way. Its benefits extend to the outside, as well. Due to its natural resistance, stone does not need to be weatherproofed or fireproofed the way other materials often do. This dramatically reduces the cost of larger scaled projects, like this 30-story stone office block designed by Amin Taha’s architecture studio Groupwork and structural engineer Webb Yates. “We’ve only just rediscovered what architects have known for 7,000 years,” says Amin. “Stone is versatile, plentiful and cheap; it has strength and longevity, and, with zeroembodied carbon, it is well placed for a renaissance.” Design + Decor
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As opposed to other naturally sourced materials, stone barely needs to be altered from the state in which it is found. When it is slightly processed, which basically means just cutting and shaping the stone, byproducts are created that are often repurposed and recycled. “Comparatively, natural stone requires minimal processing, as it can be harvested and used in its in situ form, only needing to be cut/ shaped,” says Mark Meriaux, accreditation and technical manager at the Natural Stone Institute, a trade association of the industry. “All the excess stone byproducts are usable in other industries and products, including stone-like products. Natural stone is usable in all forms of its life cycle.”
e
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Little byproduct waste, minimal processing and efficient facilities are factors that make stone sustainable. “Many quarries reuse their own runoff water and even power their operations by making their own electricity,” says Lyndsey. “Strong governmental regulations throughout the world now mandate that quarries be returned to nature when their supply has been exhausted. They are often replanted and repurposed and turned into parks, nature preserves or land that benefits the public.” Its commonality helps as well. Since stone is found all over the world, it’s often easy to source locally during construction. Using local products means less transportation, lower emissions and less packaging. “As far as obtaining a coveted LEED certification, purchasing ’local’ stone (quarried within 500 miles of where it will be installed) can help earn points toward this, and is fairly easy here in the U.S., as there are many gorgeous marbles, granites and limestones quarried all over the country,” explains Lyndsey. There are other natural resources used in building, of course. But producing materials made from wood and other popular plants, like bamboo, uses a lot of resources. A lot of energy is needed to harvest, grow and process plants into usable building materials. Stone, however, requires little energy to harvest or process, and can easily be recycled or repurposed into something else. While all this is impressive, stone’s secret to success in sustainability may be simpler than it seems. Stone is virtually indestructible. By default, the longer a structure lasts, the more sustainable it is. A well-made stone house can last for thousands of years, cutting back on the resources that would go into rebuilding it. “Consider the old-
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est man-made structures on the earth that are still standing—they are all made of natural stone,” says Mark. If cheap consumerism and “throwaway ” products with short life spans are the trademarks of degrading the environment, perhaps stone is the antidote. While building and design trends are always evolving, there seems to be no stopping the stone takeover. ABC Stone is staying on top of the latest trends in stone as they shift forward. The firm’s clients, says Lyndsey, are looking for new elements like color and movement when picking out stone. “Our clients are gravitating toward bold stones with strong striations and patterns,” she says. “Bookmatching is here to stay. We also have a ton of new finishes and textures that weren’t available even a few years ago. Who doesn’t want a stop-and-stare conversation piece in their space? Your kitchen island or fireplace surround can absolutely be that piece. Also, perfection is out. Our clients are more open to allowing the innate beauty of stone to take center stage, and there’s nothing like a natural patina to prove that a space has been well lived in.” Resources: ABC Stone Manhattan 129 West 22nd Street New York, NY 10011 646.707.3065 abcworldwidestone.com ABC Stone Brooklyn 234 Banker Street Brooklyn, NY 11222 718.389.8360 abcworldwidestone.com ABC Stone Hicksville 210 Miller Place Hicksville, NY 11801 516.997.9412 abcworldwidestone.com
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A WELCOMING EMBRACE Celebrating Hospitality at Home An architect and his clients challenge themselves to create a residential chef-d’oeuvre on a hilltop in Massachusetts. Story by Alder Grove | Photography by Dan Cutrona
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couple with two c h i l dren had found the ideal l o c a tion to build the home of their dreams: atop a large, well-treed hill in Weston, MA, 15 miles west of downtown Boston. To achieve their vision, the husband and wife had set a number of goals: the home had to accommodate guests for both short and long visits, meet the needs of their aging parents when they stayed overnight, be suitable for entertaining large gatherings, provide abundant interior and exterior spaces for family members and guests to unwind, and offer all the comforts of home for their tween daughter and college-aged son, so they would be present as much as possible. To take on the project, the couple sought out their longtime friend and architect, Christopher Pagliaro of Christopher Pagliaro Architects, based in Darien, CT. John Stefanon, principal designer of his eponymous firm based in Boston, joined the team to offer his expertise in interior designer.
The view from the grand entry penetrates through multiple layers of space. The glazed wall at the back of the main level lets in the natural backdrop of the forested hill beyond.
Friends for nearly 30 years, Christopher and his clients had completed several successful projects over the decades. Indeed, their well-established relationship allowed them to work together in the same fashion as members of an architectural firm. Christopher fondly recalls what the husband said when they first met to discuss the design of the Weston home: “He said, ‘Let’s have a little fun with this: I want you to do your thing, and if you disagree with anything we come back with, let’s have those conversations in a creative way. Ultimately, I want you to be happy with where we take this project.’” It’s a rare treat for architects to get this kind of leeway on design from the outset; Christopher knew the project Design + Decor
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The main living areas provide comfort, warmth and musical opportunities for those gathering together. The Douglas fir ceiling defines the limits of each discrete space on the main floor. Gypsum wallboard lines the ceiling of all circulation routes at this level.
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The main kitchen appears modest in size as compared to the scale of the house. Hidden down a hallway is the second kitchen, replete with all the appliances and workstations needed to pull off a fantastic party.
would be extraordinary because of his excellent relationship with the client and the latitude he had been given as designer. “This project is about hiring an architect to provide delight.” —Christopher Pagliaro As a disciple of design theory, Christopher has come to regard mystery as an important aspect of architecture. In his view, architecture is a subconscious experience: when a structure evokes mystery, the onlooker is encouraged to explore the building further. “The concept is no different whether you are exploring a European cathedral or a custom home,” says Christopher. “If you have an indication that something else is happening around the corner, you’re going to want to see what’s there.” John, who is sought after for projects across the nation, explains his approach to interior design. “I try to bring something that is very different for clients,” he says. “Something that’s playful and serves as a background for them to be themselves.” For a designer to understand exactly what a client wants in a project, it’s essential that the clients be exceptionally open about their lifestyle. To encourage his clients to provide full transparency, Chris promotes tough love. “The only way to get there is to establish a relationship where you open up with intimacy about how you live,” he says. “I always tell my clients, ‘The bigger the pain in the butt you are, the better your project is going to be. Challenge me. Tell me the nuances of your lifestyle.’” As a seasoned designer with tools to extract the deepest truths, he tells his clients bluntly, “Your job is to create the problem; Design + Decor
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Casual and comfortable, the lounge celebrates “The Dude� from the film The Big Lebowski as the champion of relaxation. Painted in colors similar to room finishes, this custom work of art ties the lounge together.
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A guest bedroom with a sitting area overlooks the bucolic environs. Designing guest areas that enable visitors to have time alone was key to the success of the project.
my job is to solve it.” The program of this open-plan house calls for family members and their guests to have a multitude of different experiential opportunities—for visitors to feel like they have a varying and unique experience every time they stay in the home, even if it’s just for a single day. During the initial design charrettes, the architect and the clients drafted a shortlist of desired “precincts” inside and outside the home. The requirements inside included a relaxing family gathering space, an office that is more comfortable than formal, a theater, a full gym, a wine room, a lounge area and the proverbial man cave, dubbed “The Shack” by the client. The outside experience had to include a pool, a spa, several sport courts, an official bocce court, a fire pit and an open-air yoga area. In creating a design to meet the family’s needs, Christopher recalls, “I had the advantage of knowing a lot about my clients. I knew that when they have guests, the guests spend a lot of time at the house. It’s a big part of the design.”
The new custom residence is approximately 9,000 square feet and oriented towards the south and west, enabling residents to take in wide panoramas of the surrounding forest and rooftops of neighboring homes down the slope. A swooping driveway brings arriving guests to the rear of the site, where they park in a private motor court. The front door is at the rear of the house, ensuring privacy. The home’s hilltop location inspired the architect to extend the gables to grade and allow the house to embrace the angle of the terrain upward, with the help of its substantial roofline. The exterior materials palette is a classic implementation of New England Shingle style: cedar shingle cladding with warm wood on the roof and walls, and stone accents to ground the form into the topography. These factors combined create a 90-degree floor plan that captures sunshine for optimal indoor daylighting. “You have sun all day in the nice spaces, and sunset from the family room spaces,” Christopher explains. “The main floor is open and has a clear view of the full panorama. The master bedroom sits above the family spaces, so Design + Decor
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it benefits from the same great experiences throughout the day.” “The rear wall of the house, to me, is nature—it’s not the actual wall of the building. The whole back wall, as one looks from the entry, is glass. So your mind is taking you through an experience of multiple layers of dimension.” —Christopher Pagliaro Opening the front door, a visitor steps into a stunning entry room. It’s the biggest space in the house: a two-story volume that takes the shape of a tall octagon. A grand stair wraps up to the second level. Visible from below are the double master bedroom doors that, when open, offer guests a peek at the barrelvaulted master ceiling. Ahead is a view of the entire kitchen and breakfast banquette, family room and dining room, giving a sense of the open-floor concept. Each room is defined by cues from the ceiling, with Douglas fir beams arranged to show the limits of the gathering and circulation spaces. Crisp drywall runs above the corridors in contrast to the well-ordered grids above the public areas. “The vibrant greenery is seen through the living and dining rooms, bringing the texture of the trees inside,” notes John. “The feeling of that texture is evident on the ceilings, which works to counter the smooth, ethereal columns.”
Below the main level, a wine room invites guests to let their hair down in a convivial space.
Christopher and the clients decided to create two guest suites, one on the main floor and one on the second floor. The main-floor suite allows the two sets of visiting grandparDesign + Decor
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Stone vaults beckon residents and guests to wander away from the main living area and explore the secret realm of “The Shack.� All the mysteries of the masculine are revealed beyond the hefty castle door.
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A full gym enables the whole family to stay in great shape within the comfort of home.
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ents to stay overnight without navigating stairs. Just beyond the main living space is a sizable covered porch, providing pool-adjacent shade on sunny summer afternoons. Additional outdoor amenities include a TV, an outdoor kitchen and a fire pit. Over the covered area is a deck extending from the master bath above. The architect took extra care to design glass railings and supports in the deck to allow sunlight to filter down to the main level. He also recreated, on a larger scale, a favorite outdoor area from the client’s previous home on Martha’s Vineyard.
ents are very social, welcoming many friends from all the corners of the world. Christopher has laid out the home so that overnight guests can access the kitchens and amenities from the guest wings without walking by the family bedrooms. Visitors feel they can roam freely about the grounds.
“The home is the hearth of the family. No financial value could replace the experience of raising a family there—or the memories created there. I think that’s one of the messages that will come out of this crisis we’re all in now.” —Christopher Pagliaro
Since space for entertaining was a non-negotiable requirement for this gregarious couple, Christopher integrated both a public kitchen and a secondary working kitchen into the design. Behind the main kitchen space, which appears very modest for the scale of the home, is a prep kitchen/pantry with sinks, dishwashers, ovens, refrigeration and coffee stations. It’s easy for any family member to access during normal life, but also serves to house a small workforce out of sight during the family’s large parties. The regular kitchen serves its traditional function as a gathering space for get-togethers, with all the necessary prep taking place behind the scenes. To coax partygoers away from the main kitchen, an Asian-inspired tall buffet table has been positioned beyond the periphery. On regular days, the long table is a place for family photos, lamps and plants, but during soirees it functions as a buffet table where guests can sit, converse and nosh.
Christopher notes that some clients of Christopher Pagliaro Architects have asked that their guest rooms not be too nice, as this might result in unwanted extensive stays by visitors. This is not the case for cherished guests at this house, however, where the family is extremely accommodating. “When you’re coming to visit for a while, you’re going to have different needs,” says Christopher. “Sometimes you want to separate yourself from the host family; a small sitting area to read your paper or iPad may be warranted. Sometimes you need a little alone time when you’re a guest. That’s a big part of the design of this house.” His cli52
“I like to layer and create a pause and interest for everyone to enjoy the space.” —John Stefanon
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“All that stone is used to evoke a feeling of going to someplace secret.” -Christopher Pagliaro In each of his homes, Christopher’s client has designated a space for himself. This started modestly at the first property as an empty shed, and has evolved into “The Shack” at this, his fifth residence. Although the homeowner is extremely averse to the term “man cave,” he nonetheless seeks masculine pursuits in his space. It offers five large TVs to watch sports, a billiards table and a collection of personal memorabilia from friends and athletes with whom he has done business. Explaining his client’s motives and wish list for “The Shack,” Christopher says, “He wanted to feel like he was leaving his house to go there, so we created a grotto of stone vaults that you pass through to arrive at the special room. It’s a combination of saying, ‘I’m leaving the house’ and ‘I’m going someplace special.’” The space is accessed by going downstairs from the main living area, bypassing the wine room and moving through a series of groin vaults. The stonework evokes a sense of passing through the foundation of the house and going to a distinct and secret room, wholly special unto itself.
Outdoor vignettes, under the protection of an expansive roof, provide cozy fireside seats and sunlight from the openings above.
This stunning home offers all the creature comforts one could imagine in an energy-efficient package that includes the latest smart home innovations. The client’s visions were brought to life thanks to a wonderful, respectful relationship between a talented architect and a design-savvy family, a gorgeous hilltop site, and a budget to back the dream. All the elements dovetailed together Design + Decor
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to create an exquisite home—truly a residential chef-d’oeuvre—where many happy memories will surely be created for years to come. Resources: Architect Christopher Pagliaro Architects Christopher Pagliaro 320 Post Road, Suite 160 Darien, CT 06820 203.838.5517 pagliaroarchitects.com Interior Design John Stefanon Design John Stefanon 460 Harrison Avenue Boston, MA 02118 617.292.6299 johnstefanondesign.com Builder David Kane Kane Development Weston, MA 02493 781.389.2800 kaneholdingsgroup.com Landscape Architect Artemis Landscape Architects Tara Vincenta 4 Washington Avenue Sandy Hook, CT 203.683.1808 artemisla.com Landscape Contractor Paragon Landscape Construction Tim and Stephanie Reid 62 Industrial Way Hanover, MA 02339 781.834.1000 paragonlandscape.com Audio Visual Audio Visual Design Group John Bray 150 Bear Hill Road Waltham, MA 02451 781.890.1177 avdg.com
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STAYING AT HOME IN STYLE
2020 ANNUAL OUTDOOR SPACES ISSUE Stories by Susan Winlow
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DAVID LAPIERRE
CARDELLOARCHITECTS.COM
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The property has beach access, and Dave capitalized on the homeowners’ desire for that seamless indoor-to-outdoor transition and the vast water views by creating the ability to walk in the front door, straight through the house, out the sliding glass doors and right to the water. The pool sits a mere three feet from the family room, and the Long Island Sound is just The Rowayton home is 6,400 square feet, and the lot is a com- 250 feet beyond. “With any coastal project, you take advantage pact one-half acre in a densely developed area. Cardello Archi- of the view and try to get as much of that view from as many tects’ Dave LaPierre took advantage of every inch of usable area rooms as you can,” says Dave. with a dynamic multilevel outdoor terrace that includes a heated, glass-walled pool, a linear gas fire feature edging the lower Once night falls, the home isn’t any less impressive, thanks to veranda, spectacular outdoor lighting, a covered patio with a its dramatic terrace lighting and unique fire feature. Noting that indoor and outdoor lighting are integral to the architecTV and fireplace, and an outdoor kitchen. ture, Dave says he takes meticulous care ensuring that homeShrewdly and expertly designed features take full advantage of owners have what they want when it comes to nighttime ambithe limited space and include a spa that slides under a cover ence. “When you get it right, it’s obvious you got it right,” he and turns into a daybed, a 12-foot sliding glass wall that con- says about the lighting. “If it’s wrong, it’s obvious you got it nects indoors with outdoors, a sliding service window from the wrong.” kitchen for easy pass-through access, and kayak storage built right underneath the terrace. The terrace surface itself boasts With this 14-month project now in the rearview mirror, the Asian granite, while the stone around the walls and chimney is fun-loving family can enjoy their beautiful new home and specrounded river rock, a popular element in coastal area homes. tacular terrace both day and night. On the coast of Connecticut sits a beautiful house with a stunning outdoor space that allows for a seamless transition from indoors to out, from the terrace to the sound beyond. This fun and entertaining residence boasts many features that make it a fabulous enclave for the homeowners and their friends.
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ALAN MEGERDICHIAN
SEQUOIACONTRACTING.COM
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This four-acre horse property with its striking barn, pristine outbuildings and outdoor arenas in Ridgefield, CT, is, without a doubt, a showstopper. An old barn, a ramshackle garage and a 200-year-old house stood on the property at the time of purchase. Alan Megerdichian and his team at Sequoia Contracting transformed the acreage into a beautiful yet efficient horse-centric space with a picturesque white New England-style barn, equipment garage, lunge ring, outdoor ring, four outdoor paddocks and outbuildings that include a two-stall retirement Design + Decor
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barn for the retired horses. “It’s a really efficient, compact horse farm that has everything you would need to run a professional operation, but with lower maintenance because of the size of the farm,” says Alan. While it is designed with the needs of a professional in mind, it is a private endeavor. The owner competes in Grand Prix competitions, but her main priority remains the comfort of the horses, including her retirees. The barn is a two-story structure, approximately 3,200 square feet. The immaculate downstairs includes six open European-style stalls, grooming and wash spaces with infrared heating, a treadmill for the horses, a tack room, a kitchen and a powder room. Upstairs is largely unused aside from the office and utility room, but it can be easily transformed into apartments for grooms. Materials used inside the barn—such as picklestained tongue-and-groove knotty pine walls with multiple coats of polyurethane—allow for easy wipe-down cleaning, and the light color aids in hiding the dirt. The ceiling is a knotty pine painted white. Both elements contribute to the owner’s desire for a “light and bright” interior, Alan says. The dressed-up aisleway boasts a concrete outer border with a broom finish, a second inner border of red Copthorne pavers, and a center of Brussels pavers set in stone dust for easy removal. The stalls contain several layers of material—gravel, stone dust, rubber matting and shavings. The layering makes a comfortable area for the horses, but prevents them from digging and creating an uneven floor. The homeowner wanted an efficient set-up where her horses could bask in comfort. This little hilltop property does just that, with an additional feel-good ambience. “Certain areas just have a good feel to them,” Alan says, describing the property. “You get there, and it has this calming and peaceful feeling.” Design + Decor
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ALICE ECKERSON BRUCE ECKERSON
ECKERSONDESIGNASSOCIATES.COM
A desire for easy and casual outdoor entertaining with the family spurred the vision for a distinctive contemporary outdoor kitchen and pergola behind this Connecticut coastal home. The Darien homeowners connected with Bruce Eckerson of Eckerson Design Associates and relayed their wish for a space that showcased a modern, clean design with minimal detailing. With an infinity-edge pool overlooking the estuary being a large part of the project, the homeowners wanted a place to serve drinks, dine outdoors and do some grilling in a relaxed setting. When it came to the kitchen design, Eckerson searched for distinctive ways to accomplish the homeowner’s minimalist desires, showcase the pool, and also screen an accessway that led 15 steps down to the basement. “We were trying to do something different,” says Bruce. “We were trying to do something that broke the mold and was unique.” Bruce worked within the confines of the existing space and expanded the thermal finished bluestone surface of the terrace. He then set to work on the outdoor kitchen and covering. The resulting design hides nearly all the features—except for a grill,
side burner and top of the Big Green Egg—behind durable teak wood cabinets featuring a shiplaplook. Even access to the cabinets is secreted behind an easy push mechanism that further allows the kitchen to remain fresh and uncluttered. The horizontal and vertical lines of the kitchen design promote the clean and tidy façade. Tucked away behind those cabinets are the unattractive but necessary guts of the grill and the Big Green Egg, and a Perlick outdoor refrigerator and double garbage bins. A waterfall-edge countertop made with natural materials lends itself to the modern feel, and a taller backsplash helps conceal that 15-stair “hole” leading down to the basement. The pergola, which is being allowed to weather naturally, balances out the existing terrace while creating shade for the sun-drenched, southeast-facing outdoor space. Lighting within the rafters shines onto the grill and table, adding practicality and ambience. This outdoor space gives the homeowners a beautiful and functional place to casually entertain with their family while enjoying their pool and estuary views beyond.
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It’s not often that drama and peace intertwine in perfect cohesion, but the outdoor space at this home in Greenwich, CT, wraps both in a seamless package. Sweeping views of an explosive wildflower field, dramatic Japanese maples and dogwoods, a unique bamboo grove and a peaceful waterfall are just some of the points that punctuate this lush, multilevel property 68
that has been in the same family since the 1960s. “There are numerous focal points,” says Scott Deniston, a partner with Young’s Legacy Landscaping. “There are focal points on each end of the house, almost like different rooms. There is an area for every mood.” The homeowners wanted both ease of access, allowing them to slow down and enjoy the beauty, plus dashes of color and texture, offering a
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SCOTT DENISTON
YOUNGSLEGACY.COM
touch of the exotic and dramatic. A variety of perennials showcase an abundance of color from spring through summer. Native trees, such as Eastern red cedar and white spruce, screen the property from the road, giving it some privacy. Low-growing and disease-resistant White Out roses, with their profusion of blooms, are used throughout the garden to tie areas together. Scott’s landscaping melts the old into the new, turning an existing bamboo grove into a shady and dramatic oasis, complete with a walking path. A Japanese gravel garden represents islands, water and palm trees by incorporating boulders shrouded in ferns, including the intricately patterned, silver Japanese Painted Fern. The water in the rock waterfall tumbles approximately 40 feet downhill into a little pool before recycling back to the top. Its colorful verdant surroundings feature a variety of ferns, sedums, succulents and lower grasses, including Japanese forest grass with its graceful sway, and the drought-tolerant liriope, a low-maintenance grass-like perennial. The project included an extended, curved, semi-porous beach pebble driveway with ample parking, and sweeping bluestone walkways created by a local landscape architect. The dramatic seven-foot pieces of bluestone demand attention while incorporating the desires of the homeowners, who love to entertain. “The design had to be done so a woman in high heels could easily navigate it,” Scott explains. The big pieces of stone, he adds, make this possible. This lush and beautiful landscaped yard with its numerous hideaways will give the homeowners much joy for years to come. Design + Decor
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MICHAEL SMITH
MICHAELSMITHARCHITECTS.COM
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A hill and some beautiful mature landscaping took the lead when it came to planning the outdoor space for this new build in New Canaan, CT. A young couple with small children purchased the property with an existing home. It soon became obvious that razing the existing structure and building a New England Shinglestyle home was the way to go to ensure that the property would meet the needs of the homeowners. “They had this idea of a vacationat-home type of house,” says Michael Smith of Michael Smith Architects. “They wanted it to feel like a vacation home, but obviously it was a primary home.” The topography of the backyard and the existing landscaping, including large maple trees and mature bushes, posed a logistical problem for Michael and his team. The hilly outdoor space chalDesign + Decor
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BROOKS HRUSA RINGSEND.COM
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lenged them: they needed to find a way to integrate an entertainment-worthy space within the hill and prevailing landscaping, which was one of the features that drew the family to the property. “There was one location for the house, and the challenge after that was how to connect this to the backyard, because the backyard is a hill,” says Michael. The result seamlessly utilizes the space and includes an outdoor kitchen and a firepit that connects to a pool and cabana by meandering stone steps. The intimate New England Fieldstone firepit seats five to six people and is approximately 40 feet from the house. It’s the ideal location ward off an evening chill and roast marshmallows with young children. Another 100 feet up brings the pool into view, an area that Michael calls a completely “different environment” from the lower portion of the outdoor space. After a dip in the pool, the family and guests can step into the cozy cabana. The cabana’s architecture mimics that of the New England Shingle-style home, and its cozy interior includes a TV, wet bar and full bathroom. While the project might have been a puzzle for Michael and his crew, the result fuses the old with the new in a cohesive look that gives this family their dream of a home with vacation-style amenities. “We worked hard to keep a lot of the existing landscape features,” he says. “It’s a new home but it looks like it’s been there for a while.” Design + Decor
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VALERIO MORANO MORANOLANDSCAPE.COM
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A sizable team of professionals came together to create an expansive outdoor oasis that embraced the existing natural exquisiteness of this Chappaqua, NY, property. The homeowners wanted to preserve the “natural beauty of the existing landscape,” said Valerio “Val” Morano Sagliocco of Morano Group, the project’s landscape builder. “They wanted their project to connect directly with the surrounding nature. The homeowner’s landscape architect had the insight and wisdom to create beautiful spaces while respecting the surrounding foliage …” This natural beauty extends throughout the project. A luxurious lap pool utilizes Japanese maples—a stunning coral-bark variety called Sango kaku and a showy red sentinel—as focal points. The trees traveled across the country from Oregon especially for this outdoor space. A large outcropping of boulders sets a dramatic backdrop in a hidden garden toward the back of the home. “These were hand-picked and sourced from the property and took an extremely large excavator to install,” Val said. “Another interesting feature, is the woodland bark chip path that meanders through the natural woods for an extremely private experience, and there is private lakeside access that allows the owners to have their own private kayaking area.” Natural beauty wends its way through areas of lush grass, borders filled colorful plants, verdant bushes and full-foliaged trees. One of the biggest responsibilities comes down to sourcing plants, Val said. He explained that it takes numerous months and many trips “across the country to hand-pick the plant materials.” Intricate stonework and patterned paving weaves its way throughout the property, and various types of seating are expertly set throughout the property against the natural backdrop. In choosing the stone and surface materials, the landscape architect used all natural and native selections in keeping with the natural beauty of the surrounding area. It took a vast team of professionals from numerous fields to put this project together. The end result is a beautiful home and natural landscaping that capitalizes on the beautiful local environment.
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THE GABLES OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY
A complete exterior remodel results in a breathtaking vacation residence in the Connecticut countryside. Story by Alder Grove | Photography by Carl Vernlund
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Three transparent walls enclose the corner gable volume in this custom residence built by Hemingway Fine Homes. Hopper windows provide an opportunity for cross ventilation within the porch space. Gable ends repeat themselves down the line and face squarely south with expansive areas of glass.
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rafting superior construction projects in and around Greenwich, CT, has been the focus of three generations of the Sciarretta family of Hemingway Fine Homes. This stunning residence—a showcase of craftsmanship and design experimentation—is no exception. The scope of this project involved completely remodeling the exterior of the home and developing extensive outdoor living spaces and amenities. Privacy was also essential to the clients, so that no neighboring homes would be visible in any direction from the 20-acre hill-country site. The overall design intent was to create a vacation-type setting at a personal residence; the architect encapsulated the general plan of the house with the phrase, “Come home to vacation.” Indeed, the features convey a feeling of being on holiday while enjoying all the comforts of home. The living spaces are largely on one level, another critical piece of the client program. The design affords privacy, bucolic surroundings and high-end features worthy of an exclusive retreat. For the clients, whose primary residence is in Manhattan, an hour’s drive away, this Connecticut chalet provides quick access to the wooded sanctuary of a second home.
Truncated gable forms stand shoulder to shoulder on the private 20-acre site. Corner windows and gable-end glazing allow sunlight to access each room. Where the grade steps down, the glass steps up and comprises three walls of the right-most porch volume.
Principal and CEO of Hemingway Fine Homes Peter Sciarretta is quick to acknowledge the contribution of each team member responsible for the success of this project. “My father, Sal, who has been building for 50 years, my brotherin-law, Doug Horn, for 20 years, and myself for Design + Decor
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30 years—we all participated, and everyone added value to the process with the implementation of our individual skill sets,” says Peter. “All of us at Hemingway feel very grateful to have been entrusted with this project.” “There were some inroads with some family members we happened to know, two avenues into the project, which is pretty unique. The stars just aligned, and we went to work.” -Peter Sciarretta, CEO, Hemingway Fine Homes Peter elaborates on the most inescapable aspect of this job. “The word ‘unique’ isn’t good enough because the project is truly one-of-a-kind,” he says. “Each gable has a flat section three feet wide at the top. You can look up from anywhere and see sky—or snow in the winter. It’s lovely.” Custom skylights run almost the whole length of each truncated gable in the row of seven rooflines. Lynbrook Glass & Architectural Metals fabricated the roof windows per specifications to permit daylighting to all the rooms within the house. Corner windows and under-gable glazing at the rake walls allow transparency to dominate the south-facing façade. The gables run across the hill like a series of crenulations, with two more offset to shelter a four-car garage adjacent to the motor court. The palette of exterior materials is designed and constructed for durability, aesthetics and performance. The building envelope is composed of luxury composition shingles and membrane roofing systems, depending on roof slope. Lead-coated copper flashing, half-round gutters and internal valley drains guide water to the exterior. Fleetwood custom windows and doors offer the sleekest modern profiles. Produced using green manufacturing techniques, they provide top-notch energy performance. Three coats of WaterMaster lime-based stucco exterior finish cover an astounding 8,900 square feet of the building’s envelope, giving the house a modern adornment that is elegant in its understated simplicity. A classic selection of bluestone is specified for the sills of the exterior doors and windows.
Entertaining is a joy in the glass-walled corner volume perched over the sloping grade below. Repeating gables recede into the distance behind the large elevated terrace and reflecting pool.
“People who build their own home tend to be very courageous. These people are curious about life. They’re thinking about what it means to live in a house, rather than just buying a commodity and making it work.”-Tom Kundig, American architect One of the home’s boldest elements is a volume that mimics the same Design + Decor
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A joyful sculpture greets the blue sky in front of the koi pond and glass-floored bridge. Modern lines and clean finishes keep the aesthetic simple and elegant.
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Bluestone terraces provide a venue for outdoor grilling next to the waterfalls and koi pond.
blunted gable form sported by its adjacent companions, differentiating itself by the inclusion of three one-and-a halfstory, floor-to-ceiling glazed walls. Glittering like a jewel, the mass delicately anchors the corner of the house, resting atop a lower level that is the only area extending to grade below the 88
main floor. The site slopes away gently, necessitating a foundation to support the transparent volume and outdoor terrace above. The glass-enclosed porch space includes an elongated skylight at the peak of the substantial roof assembly. Operable hopper windows can be tilted to generate a cross breeze on
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A koi pond, waterfall and bridge with glass flooring are protected in their homey niche. Absolute black granite veneer with a flamed finish adorns the waterfall wall over the pool.
warmer days. Offering spectacular views and specialty audiovisual equipment, this room is a much sought-after hangout for relaxing and entertaining. A wood-burning appliance floats in midair, offering coziness to anyone who wants to stoke a fire. Peter emphasizes that the outdoor space is second to none,
providing access to several enticing amenities. Flanking the front and rear faรงades are two rectilinear ponds, where waterfalls tumble down into pools housing schools of large, brightly colored koi. Two bridges with glass floors extend over the koi, enthralling homeowners and visitors with a view into a watery Design + Decor
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A private terrace is hidden outside the master bathroom. Hot and cold plunges are ready for bathers in summer or winter. Constructed of local bluestone, outdoor lounging areas are beautiful and durable.
world below. The koi were handled with extreme sensitivity during the extensive remodeling: weatherproof tanks were brought on-site to store the fish in a suitable ecosystem until they could be reintroduced to their upgraded environments. “The architecture and use of glass are unique. You can look down through these glass bridges and see giant koi flowing beneath your feet.” -Peter Sciarretta Another pair of unparalleled amenities are the hot and cold plunges. Long embraced by our ancestors, the practice of alternating dips between pools of hot water and cold water is said to invigorate the life force. Here, on the private master terrace safely hidden behind a high-reaching screen, a mechanized glass separation wall slides out of the way to allow a bather to slip outside the master tub and step directly into a cold-water plunge on the terrace. Five terraces provide venues for marathon barbecuing, al fresco dining, and summertime sun worshipping. The screen on the master terrace provides shade for worry-free naps in the chaise lounges. Locally sourced bluestone masonry puts a handsome and sturdy face on the outdoor areas. Blackened steel frames support stainless-steel cable railings outside the glass gable, preventing tumbles from the upper terrace as people flow between the interior and exterior entertaining areas. Peter is very proud of his company ’s quality workmanship. “Anything Hemingway builds has got to be superior,” he says. Design + Decor
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A four-car garage welcomes vehicles at the motor court. Each gable form has a three-foot-wide flattened ridge. The visual pattern is dominated by these repetitive roofs as the footprint recedes toward the background.
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“I’m passionate about the work, and I make sure that all the craftsmanship will stand the test of time.” Indeed, no expense was spared in creating a wonderful, spa-like experience for the homeowners. The outdoor vignettes sprinkled around the house provide a mosaic of resort-like experiences that come together to create a residential oasis. “The photos of this project tell their own story,” says Peter. “It’s quite special.” Resources: Hemingway Construction Peter Sciarretta 115 Mason Street Greenwich, Connecticut 06830 203.625.0566 hemingwayconstruction.com Architect Leroy Street Studio 65 Allen Street New York, NY 10002 212.431.6780 leroystreetstudio.com Design + Decor
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PROFILE
Curator Dense Fog
Curator Plain + Purl
Benjamin Moore Amelia Island Blue
Nina Cuccio Peck Nina Cuccio Peck Architecture + Interiors
RING’S END: THE COASTAL COLOR COLLECTION Story by Melanie Hanson
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he Coastal Color Collection fulfills a longtime dream at Ring’s End, the home improvement/building supply store. To create the collection, the company partnered with top local design firms to compose palettes that reflect and celebrate the natural beauty of New England’s coastline. These hand-selected color schemes can help bring the splendor of that shoreline into your home—no matter where you are, no matter what your style. Clean earth tones give an organic nobility to the selection made by Kerianne Smith of Point One Architects. Creamy shades like Sea Salt and Seapearl, mixed by East Coast institution Benjamin Moore Paints, conjure up the spray from a restless ocean on an overcast day.
Kerianne Smith Point One Architects
colors you might find as you explore a charming beach town on a summer afternoon. Amelia Island Blue and Venezuelan Sea, also by Benjamin Moore, bring to mind the ease of a day on the water, with the pop of color that is this design house’s signature: blending modern style with traditional sensibilities. Classic hues that evoke New England’s colonial past comprise the palette selected by Nina Cuccio Peck of Nina Cuccio Peck Architecture & Interiors. Her picks include historic, contrasting tones from the high-end, eco-friendly label Farrow & Ball. The company’s bold Stiffkey Blue, named for a village on England’s Norfolk Coast, matches a sailor’s peacoat, while Wevet, from an old Dorset term for a spider’s web, captures the reflection on the ocean’s surface.
Prudence Bailey and Whitney McNell of Prudence Home + Design chose 94
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Benjamin Moore Beacon Gray
Benjamin Moore Venezuelan Sea
Jody DeLuca Jody Deluca Designs
Curator Skellig Rock
Farrow + Ball Stiffkey Blue
Prudence Bailey + Whitney McNell Prudence Home + Design
Farrow + Ball Wevet Curator, another luxury brand from overseas that is featured in the Coastal Collection, also mixes shades inspired by antiquity and tradition. Ring’s End was one of the first American retailers to bring this brand of paint from Ireland, where 19th-century Dublin’s bustling main port was called “Ringsend.” Jody Deluca of Jody Deluca Designs selected Curator’s earthy colors Dense Fog and Skellig Rock, with brighter shades White Sand and Beacon Gray from Benjamin Moore, to represent America’s own Ring’s End Landing. Ring’s End Landing is on the Goodwives River in Darien, Connecticut. The company, Ring’s End was founded in 1902 at Ring’s End Landing but moved to its current location in 1919 to be closer to the railroad. Darien is home to both Prudence Home + Design and Deluca Designs.
part of the family-run company’s identity. In fact, a portion of each sale from Ring’s End’s Coastal Collection goes to Save the Sound, a nonprofit organization that works to maintain the beauty of the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut coast. The group has spent four decades helping to protect the environment that the Coastal Collection is meant to celebrate.
The shop overlooked Long Island Sound, which has remained an important
For a Ring’s End location near you, go to: ringsend.com
In the last century, Ring’s End has grown by leaps and bounds, now boasting 19 locations throughout the region. Its Coastal Collection is a love letter to that stony shoreline, created to infuse your space with the beauty and color of New England. Resource
Design + Decor
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PROFILE
NEW ENGLAND ANTIQUE LUMBER Story by Alicia Raeburn
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he expansive wood showroom for New England Antique Lumber Inc. is tucked away in Mount Kisco, NY, a small town just north of Manhattan. Since launching the business in 2015, married couple Mauricio and Patricia Guevara have developed a loyal following, boasting celebrity clients like Martha Stewart and actor Ryan Reynolds.
in turning wasted resources into something beautiful. Everything they build, they keep the environment in mind.
Getting to this point wasn’t easy, however. When owners Mauricio and Patricia moved to the U.S. from Ecuador, they didn’t speak the language or have jobs lined up. They landed a position cleaning houses, which led them to a contact in construction. Mauricio transitioned into working construction full-time, developing skills in building with wood while spending all his free time educating himself about the different types of lumber and their uses. He was good at it, and, over time, his boss ended up giving him his own projects.
The furniture at New England Antique Lumber speaks for itself. The Guevaras are able to shape reclaimed wood beyond simple furniture, turning it into stunning focal points. Live-edge countertops and benches become refined and sophisticated with Mauricio’s house-made stains, and upcycled wood beams add rustic charm to fireplaces, ceilings and shelving. The style of the furniture varies, ranging from modern chic to cozy farmhouse. “We don’t have one type of furniture—we make everything,” says Patricia. “The wood can be used in every aspect, whether it’s siding, beams or flooring. We don’t have just one thing because we make products based on how we believe the wood is meant to be used.”
Still, Mauricio and Patricia wanted more. One afternoon, on a trip to upstate New York to buy wood, they noticed a gap in the supply. There wasn’t a place to buy the kinds of products they were making in the area. At that moment they made the decision to follow their dream of opening their own business.
“People tell us they feel like they’re coming to a wood museum because of all the things inside,” says their daughter, Maria. “We have locals who come in three to four times a month; they window shop just because of how beautiful it is.”
Their showroom today is stocked with elaborate and delicate pieces, all designed and built by the Guevaras. Custom-made pieces are created with input from their clients, as well. The furniture they make is gorgeous—high-end without feeling stuffy or overproduced. And because it is all constructed from salvaged wood, every piece is one of a kind.
Mauricio and Patricia currently have commissions from all over the U.S., but plan to push their business further afield in the future, expanding their offerings to international clients. With their dedication and ethical ethos, it’s no wonder they’ve continued to grow. “They fully conquered their American dream,” Maria says of her parents. “They love it so much. They have so much passion for it, they can work from sunrise to sunset without stopping.”
What makes New England Antique Lumber special, though, is beyond the exceptional woodworking you see in their Westchester County showroom. Mainly, it’s the passion of Mauricio and Patricia that makes this family-run business stand out. They travel around the state, working with local communities to support them and remove wood that comes from barns and trees that need to be cut down. They never cut down trees themselves or use fresh lumber for their creations. It’s not just because reclaimed wood and hardware is trendy and sells—it’s because Mauricio and Patricia see the vast potential 96
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Resource New England Antique Lumber 91 East Main Street Mount Kisco, NY 10549 914.864.0895 newenglandantiquelumber.com
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