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HOME+DESIGN CONNECTICUT | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK
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Duravit Cape Cod series by Philippe Starck.
A design collaboration is a very special relationship. It’s a pleasure when our passion for quality products becomes part of the creative process. As an addition to the wide assortment of brands that homeowners have come to enjoy in our showrooms, we’ve recently curated new collections to help architects and designers distinguish their work when transforming baths and kitchens. Product knowledge, detailed coordination and an accessible, friendly staff are added values we offer to ensure your project goes smoothly. PISCATAWAY, NJ 180 Centennial Avenue • 732-393-7555 STAMFORD, CT 200 Richmond Hill Avenue • 203-325-1355 NEWBURGH, NY 600 Corporate Boulevard • 845-567-3803 For additional showroom locations, please visit frankwebb.com
Architects & designers are encouraged to visit frankwebb.com/professionals.
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EAST
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HOME+DESIGN VOLUME 15 ISSUE 1- 2018
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Comfort with a Little Bit of Sparkle
Amy Andrews helps a family create a dream vacation home to match their lifestyle and personality Story by Emily Ballard Photography by Robert Benson
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Neo-Colonial Grandeur
A new construction by Michael Smith Architects brings history back home to this residential lot in Scarsdale. Story by Anastasia Storer Photography by Jonathan Wallen
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Magnificently Modern
A spectacular collection of fabulous modern kitchens and baths from our favorite designers
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Editors Letter Ask the Experts Events
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E A S T
C O A S T
HOME+DESIGN November VOLUME / December 15 ISSUE 20171 - 2018 ISSUE 89
Editor-in-Chief Matthew J. Kolk mattkolk@me.com 203-820-1092 Managing Editor James Eagen Contributing Writers Deborah Brannon, Lisa Gant, Susan Heller, Lollie Mathews, Jennifer Jackson-Outlaw, Jessica Rivest, Kait Shea Contributing Photographers Jane Beiles, Michael Biondo, Phillip Ennis, Tria Giovan, John Gruen, John Hannon, Paul Johnson, Neil Landino, Mark La Rosa, Tim Lee, Daniel Milstein, Janice Parker, Durston Saylor, Debra Somerville, Eric Striffler, Jonathan Wallen, Woodruff/Brown Photography Copy Editor Elena Serocki Graphic & Web Design East Coast Home Publishing
ghtthat for love mily dited artg or aced ited.
Publisher Shelley E. McCormick shelley_mccormick@yahoo.com 203-545-7091 Account Managers Alessandra Flanagan Patrick Giddings Lollie Mathews Business Development John Oleynick
t resten, o an rics, llpasign of a
East Coast Home + Design 8158 Natures Way #23 Lakewood Ranch, Fl 34202 Fax: 203-286-1850
East Coast Home + Design is published six issues per year. To subscribe: www.eastcoasthomepublishing.com; Subscriptions: one year, $28; two years, $50. Back issues can be purchased at www.eastcoasthomepublishing.com. For editorial inquiries: Editor, East Coast Home + Design, 8158 Natures Way #23 Lakewood Ranch, Fl 34202 or e-mail: mattkolk@me.com. For advertising inquiries: Please call Shelley McCormick at 203-545-7091. Reproduction whole or in part without permission is prohibited. All projects described in this publication are for private, noncommercial use only. No rights for commercial use or exploitation are given or implied. The opinions expressed by writers for articles published by East Coast Home + Design are not necessarily those of the magazine.
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EDITOR’S LETTER
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or the first issue of this new year, we have introduced a new roundtable to our group of informative and interesting articles. The First Annual Kitchen Designer Roundtable.
We have brought together a talented group of heavy-hitting designers to talk about a variety of topics such as: trends in kitchen design, the changing landscape of the buyer and how to identify and market to a new generation of clients. We produced this lively roundtable in partnership with Clarke of South Norwalk, where the event was held, as well as a fantastic meal following the discussion provided by Match Restaurant of South Norwalk. East Coast Home + Design would like to thank Sean Clarke, Marco Barallon and Heather Beland of Clarke for partnering with us on the event, the talented chefs from Match for providing a wonderful meal and all of the participants of the roundtable for taking the time to share their infinite knowledge of this very intricate segment of the shelter industry with our readers. We hope you all enjoy this new addition and much as we all did producing it for you and look forward to making this a staple in our publication.
Matthew Kolk
Enjoy,
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- Editor in Chief
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Special Dads Deserve a Special Garage. Give One To Yours This Father’s Day
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MELANGE
Fantastic Finds from High Point Market Eclectic Elegance Natural materials mixed with repetitive
Penshaw Chandelier by Currey There was a time when the subject of flying saucers conjured up thoughts of space invaders. Our design team has taken its own license with the concept and created the Penshaw chandelier by Currey upon which handsomely detailed inverted saucers holding points of light orbit around a gem of a planet. curreycodealers.com
patterns create a fun mix of shapes and forms.
Meridian Collection Taken from the matching print fabric in the Meridian collection by Anna French, the natural, organic shapes of Balin Ikat are quite charming and sophisticated. thibautdesign.com
Elroy Chair by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. The ultimate in form & function: Mid-century modern sculptural accent chair. mgbwhome.com
Ms. Poodle Silver Table Lamp The Ms. Poodle Silver table lamp by Currey is a refined remake of the original lamp Phyllis Morris carved from clay with a potato peeler, the mid-century modern taste- maker proving her kicky sense of humor. curreycodealers.com
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Windsong Dining Table California-based Robert James Collection introduces the Windsong Dining Table. This table features an intricately hand-cut steel base shown with a White Oak top. robertjamescollection.com
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Around The World In One Day A mix of popping colors and deep, rich materials create a sense of luxury and exlusivity.
The Capri Sling Chair The Capri Sling Chair by Fine Furniture sits low atop a gold metal base. It is covered in a white upholstery fabric with a gold marbleized pattern. ffdm.com
Colours Ketchum Area Rug The vivid-hued Colours Ketchum area rug by Jaipur Living lends a modern dose of whimsy to indoor and outdoor spaces. The hooked polypropylene construction boasts weather and traffic-resistant durability and texture-rich looped pile. Multi-col- or stripes add a dimensional look to the waving blue ombre design for playful, contemporary style. jaipurliving.com
Divine Cocktail Table Divine Cocktail Table by Fine Furniture - This unique look is achieved by an ebonized maple (dyed black) inlay in the eucalyptus veneer. This is the same handmade marquetry technique that is used for traditional designs, but this one is applied in a geometric pattern with straight lines. ffdm.com
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The Honeycomb Chandelier The Honeycomb chandelier designed by Jamie Beckwith for Currey will have the bees buzz- ing when the fixture is illuminated, as the octagonal walnut pieces telescoping from the wrought iron frame create an illuminated puzzle with shapes they will recognize. curreycodealers.com
Ming Square Back Chair by Jamie Young. jamieyoung.com
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Hollywood Glamour
A touch of glamour can provide elegance, yet keeping it playful allows for an inviting and calming atmosphere.
Ms. Poodle Gold Table Lamp The Ms. Poodle Gold table lamp by Currey is a refined remake of the original lamp Phyllis Morris carved from clay with a potato peeler, the mid-century modern taste- maker proving her kicky sense of humor. curreycodealers.com Ariadne Rectangular Wall Sconce Mythology has some knotty tales, the one Theseus inhabited a circuitous one. Thankfully he was loved by an immortal who helped him escape the labyrinth, a woman just as clever as the namesake Ariadne Rectangular wall sconce by Currey with its looping knots and sexy swagger. curreycodealers.com
The Accordion Console Table The Accordion console table by Ambella is made of brushed American white oak with a pearlized platinum finish. Four adjustable metal glide feet. ambellahome.com
Aubree Sofa Transformational, a new way of seeing — Graduated trapezoid angles on all sides, delicately outlined by by a dark exposed wood frame. Aubree Sofa by Bernhardt. bernhardt.com
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Astaire Mirror Make a bold statement with this unique Astaire Mirror by Badgley Mischka. The construction of this mirror is one of a kind with its contemporary design.
Davis Dot Wallcovering An allover dense pattern of scattered spots, Davis Dot wallcovering by Anna French is an intriguing and unusual design featuring repeating dots that glimmer with hints of metallic. thibautdesign.com
The Valentina Cocktail Table The Valentina cocktail table by Bernhardt reflects a quiet complexity — Bringing newness to the drum table. A pattern like origami flowers encircles the form. Textured concentric circles on the top surface. bernhardt.com
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Silky Softness
Light colors with a touch of pastel colors combined with natural materials and patterns create a cozy balance.
The Adair Collection The Adair collection by Jaipur Living boasts a modern Moroccan aesthetic for a worldly dose of design. Artfully constructed of wool and luxurious recycled sari silk, this dark gray and white flatweave rug features a captivating trellis design. Boho braided fringe adds texture-rich detail to this exquisitely made accent. jaipurliving.com
Axiom Arm Chair by Bernhardt. A refresh of the arm chair — A modern cut-out frame. Solid hardwood in a Linear Gray finish. Upholstered back and seat, shown in an off-white woven. bernhardt.com
Pick Up Stick Dining Table The Pick Up Stick Dining Table by Ambella is made of iron metal with an antique gold finish. Sturdy table base will hold stone, glass or wood top. ambellahome.com
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Turqouse Pebble Rectangle Mirror by Jamie Young jamieyoung.com
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Ms. Poodle Pink Table Lamp The Ms. Poodle Pink table lamp is a refined remake of the original lamp Phyllis Morris carved from clay with a potato peeler, the mid-century modern taste- maker proving her kicky sense of humor. curreycodealers.com
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Giselle Chairside Table by Bernhardt Like hand-ruching on fabric — A flowing feminine pattern cast in resin, with a silky matte Chalky White finish. The finish and flowing “pleats” play with ambient light—softly. A showstopper, but grounded and casual. bernhardt.com
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Luxurious Bliss
Gold is a beautiful accent for any space, especially if applied in a subtle way provides a grounded yet elegant atmosphere.
Cove Mirror California-based Robert James Collection introduces the Cove Mirror. A stun- ning curvilinear and symmetrical mirror made with a smooth iron outer frame and hammered iron inner frame. robertjamescollection.com The Unstring by Kavi Reverting to traditional roots while staying true to modern sensibilities, unstring offers memories of bygone days; half-forgotten now. High-knot count carpet with classic, old world patterns are brought into the modern age through the latest dyeing and finishing techniques. jaipurliving.com
Kole Table Lamp As if it sprung from the mind of a mid-century sculptor who loved to hone stone into angular obelisks, the Kole table lamp by Currey has a surprise in store: it’s made of polished concrete flecked with abalone shells. The wrought iron shade, base and finial finished in satin black heighten the modernist feel of the piece. curreycodealers.com
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The Accordion Console Table The Accordion Console Table by Ambella is made of brushed American white oak with a dark metallic grey finish. Four adjustable metal glide feet. ambellahome.com
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Designer Kitchens Roundtab Ourdoor
Kitchens
project of thesedum 2 yearprovides approvalyear-round beautiful process – his texture jobThe situation against has tall, thisbecause groundcover color. mid-sumIf the homeowner a large family and frequent guests, there must changed. Two years, that’s acomparison long time.” the quartzite and lacquered mer yellow flowers pale inhas with its foliage, which transisufficient space for walkways so the cook orand multiple cooks countertops.” tions frombechartreuse in spring to shades of orange red in the have fall. room to walk around. “We consider the flow of the space and where It works well in the landscape as well as in containers and rock gardens. guests will naturally land when entering the space. If theoffirstthis few The culmination Hydrangea paniculata ‘Strawberry Sundae™’ (Dwarf Panicle Hydran- MATT KOLK: steps direct guests between the range and the sink, the chef will be me asktrilobum a question? Does the(American timing project forCranberrybush): is thea process kitchendiffer revitalfor Viburnum ‘Wentworth’ A large gea): In coastal regions, our obsession with hydrangeas is hard to deny. “Let dancing around them during meal prep,” says Jennifer Howard of building versus renovating?” ized, atselection last beating in white time shrub, this American Beauties Native Plants® produces Although not our first choice when selecting for dry sites, if you must people JWH Design and Cabinetry in Rye, NY. homeowners’ lives. In latethe summer, the bright red have some hydrangeas in your xeriscape, the panicle form is most ap- spring flowers that attract butterflies. with The daily ofsongbirds, the kitchen area must beagreed takenred into chorus of voices sounded mostand of its which that renovation berries provide fooduse for stunning fallconsideration. foliage is a propriate. Strawberry Sundae is a First Editions® Plant, its flowers A designers such asbecause Jennifer mustDESIGN evaluateathe needs of be For the that most arduous process KITCHEN reconciling structure great alternative toreason, the invasive burning bush shrubs. beginning mid-summer as a creamy white, and transitioning to shades could the client with questions such as whether they like to cook and how that met code when originally built now Kerifaces McKay major uphill battles, of deep pink. It is suitable for drying or fresh arrangements. often they host gatherings. Establishing how large the events might sometimes insurmountable. That leaves Kerinot McKay only Interiors the architect and These are just a few of the many plants that, once established, can better beconditions. and buyer the details ofseller such events leads to lurch. decisions whichitapbut the and a financial Fairfield, CT about handle dry With ourin ever-changing weather patterns, is Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ (Lavender): For the gardener builder, best suit the cooking203.414.0133 needs.reduce For instance, wouldon anthe exto makewillwater-wise decisions that our impact who has struggled with overwintering lavender in New England, this importantpliances tra refrigerator, double ovens or akerimckayinteriors.com warming drawerlandscapes. facilitate efficient SELLARS: environment while still creating aesthetically pleasing recent introduction tolerates both extreme heat and humidity. The ev- ANN Arnold Karp and Robin Carroll planning and execution? “It makes sense to right-size the appliances,” regulatory ergreen silver foliage of this herb is deer-resistant; its prolific fragrant “This is not just about Millennials. This is also about the SCOTT HOBBS: says Jennifer. “We don’t want to overwhelm a space with process wholeappliapResource itself and people wanting to renovate. I explain the huge flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. “When the regulatory process takes 6 months to a year, and is uncer- proval process ances,to butclients the largest units that fit proportionately will provide and their reaction? “WHOA!” Then I get the an Caprice Table tain inThe terms of Cocktail results, a lot of the fun goes outSky’ of it for client email, and overall value.” andbest thisfunction has happened three times in the past four months. “We Eva Chiamulera, ASLA, PLA Panicum virgatum Prairie ‘Cheyenne (RedtheSwitch The Caprice Cocktail TableWinds® by Fine Furniture features a and for the architect. Sometimes I can’t even break ground forblueyear decided scalloped-shaped and curvednativar brass metal base. to bag this project.” Austin Ganim Landscape Design, LLC Grass): This Proven top Winners® begins the season with ffdm.com to 18 months waiting for the various approval processes. If we could concept is quite familiar to Peter Deane with Deane Rooms Highway Cutoff green foliage that transitions to a reddish purple in late summer. A 320 Kings This figure that out we’d have better houses, worth more money and of Everlasting in New LATHROP: Canaan, CT. A recent kitchen design for a family Fairfield, CT 06824 midsize grass at almost three feet in height, it works well in a mixed HOWARD greater value, but because of the regulatory environment people are with five childrenPlanning brought & some specific design requests chalwas on the Westport Zoning Commission forand 8 years. 203.333.2003 border with perennials and shrubs, as well as an accent plant in con- “I The Capri Sling Chair walking away.” lenges. The family loved to cook, so it was important to have places We tried desperately toFine change thesits regulations, make it easier, and AustinGanimLandscapeDesign.com tainer gardens. The Capri Sling Chair by Furniture low atopimprove a gold metal base. It covered in a white for the children toissit in the kitchen, and thathave the appliances we did it, but it’s still terrible. Clients said, “Weaccomwant Sarah Blank Design Studioupholstery fabric with a gold marbleized pattern. Before STUART DISSTON: modate their needs. This was achieved with an elegant and Westport functional want to go through the Sedum rupestre ‘Angelina’ (Stonecrop): Although only a few inches to build or renovate but we don’t ffdm.com “I have a client who is about to walk away from an 8 million dollar Choice® selection provides an outstanding display of deep blue flowers through early fall, attracting pollinators of all types. The compact form of this sun-loving shrub mixes well with perennials and grasses.
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ASK THE EXPERTS
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A Cookstove Conversation with Wittus
n your opinion, how is the fire element associated with a home? The fire element is a very prominent feature when added to a home’s decor. Not only is it beautiful, it also serves as a great secondary heat source. In Denmark, the homes with fireplaces outnumber the ones without, and the word that describes it is hygge, or well-being. The fireplace is at the top of the list when you talk about adding ambience, intimacy, warmth and comfort to a room. As a Danish company that has a long history of hygge, we believe that every home deserves a fireplace. In addition to achieving the highest standard of comfort in the home, a fireplace is an economical heating option. The benefits of sitting near a fireplace are endless, including the element of togetherness that it encourages. What about a wood-burning cookstove? Wood-burning cookstoves are very versatile. They can be placed in a traditional kitchen setting or in a living room that requires extra heat on occasion. Also, cooking with wood heat is faster and hotter than gas or electric. In the instance of a power outage, a cookstove can be a life saver. We had clients who lost power on Thanksgiving and actually cooked their turkey in one of our cookstoves. What are the most important points to consider when adding a woodburning cookstove to your home? It is very important to do some research and ask questions when selecting a 28
hearth product. Check your space for size, efficiency needs and style preferences. Every fireplace has its own ratings and product details. If you can get a hold of the product manual, it would be very beneficial to read through it before you make your final decision. Wittus publishes all the product manuals on our website for easy access. It’s also good to make sure you have an area where you will get the most benefit from the stove. An indoor or outdoor kitchen, a great room that needs a secondary heat source or a comfortable corner where the stove can do its thing are all great choices. What are some insider tips for cooking with wood? There is nothing like food prepared on a wood-burning fire. It may sound like a lot of work, but it’s actually a much faster, healthier and tastier way to prepare food. Once you have your fire going, it’s smooth sailing. To make it easier, have all the materials you need at your fingertips. Set up your woodpile, gather your utensils and prep the food beforehand so you are good to go once the fire is ready. And, most important, wait until you have a sufficient number of hot embers in your fire before you start. Which Wittus products are best suited for cooking? We have a few special cookstoves in our line-up. The Domino 8 Maxi is styled after traditional countryside stoves used daily in Italy, and it’s the perfect match for indoor kitchen areas. The Lugo is a contemporary fireplace that has the oven compartment on top and the firebox underneath. This stove is perfect for baking and cooking, and the upper compartment
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allows for the chef to reach in easily to tend to the food. And our Klassic cookstove, the brainchild of industrial designer Bent Falk of Denmark, is one of the largest products in our collection. It heats, cooks food to perfection and shows off its designer edge. Is there a trend in the hearth industry that includes cookstoves? Definitely. We are seeing a surge in protected outdoor living areas that include full kitchens with more than one cooking appliance. So it’s not uncommon to see a wood stove, a gas stove and a pizza oven all sitting next to one another. These are super-comfortable outdoor kitchens that include seating and dining areas. What are the benefits of adding a wood-burning cookstove to your home? Adding a stove to your home is great, and adding a cookstove to your home is even better. The added feature of cooking while heating is a true benefit to every homeowner. As I mentioned earlier, one need not worry about the next meal in the event of a power outage. Resources Wittus 40 Westchester Avenue Pound Ridge, NY 10576 914.764.5679 wittus.com
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IN THE FIELD
2018 First Annual Kitchen Design Roundtable
Jennifer Howard, Natasha Vecca, Sean Clarke and Trish Herson
THE KITCHEN IS AT THE HEART(H) OF THE MATTER Hot Meals. Cool People. It’s Called Kitchen Love. Story by Susan Heller | Photography by Chen Chou
Forty gazillion homilies in every language and culture on earth cite the kitchen as the true heart of every village, of every family, of every home,
Gen X 1965–1984, acting as a living bridge between the top two contenders.
Whether socializing with friends, interacting with family, or when one needs solitude and deep quiet, the kitchen serves as an almost holy space. Time and technology have up-leveled that supernal ground to a place where, if done correctly, the generations come to exchange nutrients both emotional and physical. That expanded definition translates to interesting design issues and poses ongoing psychoemotional questions for kitchen designers and their clients as you will see.
The zeitgeist, to utilize a popular trope, of the Millennial marketplace could not be more antithetical to that of the Baby Boomers. First, there is the natural push-back from a younger generation toward those who still hold the major reins of power, albeit the clock is ticking on that one. Meanwhile, Millennials have been called spoiled, naïve and entitled. Sheltered, shielded and safeguarded. But isn’t that exactly what drove the Boomers to work so hard? To be so diligent about creating a world for their children that was safe and kind and beautiful. Something that would last, something they could pass on with the belief that their kids could then pass it on to their own children.
The event was hosted by Clarke in South Norwalk, CT, which is a ToThe-Trade resource. It was an education (and good exercise, the facility is huge) just walking among all the different displays. I’ve written stories on six of the last seven Roundtables ECH+D has hosted featuring Builders & Architects. What struck me about this First Annual Kitchen Design Roundtable, is that like the architects, most of the designers are grappling with a very difficult on-going bifurcation of the marketplace. Baby Boomers 1946 –1964 vs. Millennials (Gen Y) 1977–1995, with 30
I think the question of what happens to a society that has not lived a collective cultural darkness like the war on Vietnam and the civil unrest bordering on civil war that the Boomers grew up with, is a valid one. If disaster strikes and the current jagged divisiveness in our country erupts into real-world drama, here or abroad, I have no doubt that Millennials will rise as the generations before them have. They’re smart, they’re savvy, and they have something no generation in the history of the planet has had; a massive bedrock foundation, literally global in
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Matthew Kolk
Joe Najmy, Barbara Laughton, Matt Garrdina and Carlo Jona
scope, based on shared communication technology. That fact, instant access to any kind of information, exacerbates the division between the wants and needs of the two generations which are often diametrically opposed. That in turn, creates a huge problem for kitchen designers and appliance showcases. Where do your advertising dollars go? How do you address the demands of the now dominant (in terms of numbers) demographic, the Millennials, when they have incredibly high expectations but they don’t have budgets to match? What new technologies and trends should you invest in and advise others to incorporate into the very heart of their homes?
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Editor-in-Chief Matt Kolk threw down the gauntlet. “There is a strong change in the demographic. Baby Boomers are fading out, they’ve spent their money, they have their ‘I’m going to die in this home.’ Now it’s the Millennials and they are a completely different animal. What are the challenges?”
Sharon Sherman and Peter Deane
Matt Garrdina – Front Row Kitchens “A lot of the focus is on the Millennials, how they’re hard to manage. I happen to be a member of Generation X. They call Generation X the last great generation because we’re the last generation that understands the old school, the last generation that understands the importance of a hand written letter but also understands technology. Barbara Laughton - Front Row Kitchens “I think the Millennials expectations are high because they grew up with instant gratification but they don’t have budgets to access the level of quality they grew up with, not yet. Maybe in two, three or five years they will have the spending capability. I find that they know what they want and they don’t want to compromise, they don’t want fixer-uppers. They want it all done for them. You do see articles about how they don’t know how to do anything.”
Brian Kries, Lisa Rehm and John Rehm
Tyra Dellacroce - Connecticut Stone “Their value system always amazes me. A young woman will have a $500 dollar handbag and I’m thinking, gee, at 42 years of age, the last thing I’d spend $500 on would be a handbag. Because they’re staying at home longer and they’re not really needing a house until they’re 26 or 27 years of age, their value system is very different from what yours and mine might be because we grew up differently.” Matt Kolk - ECH+D “Based on my experience with architects, and you guys must see this all the time; it is, ‘I want it right now. I want this stone, with this marble, and this, and this…’ and it doesn’t work that way. You can’t just give a designer a stack of pictures and say here, make me a kitchen.” John Rehm - Architectural Kitchen Design “That’s what they do! They show you an iPhone and say, ‘Here. That’s it.’ And they do want it immediately.”
Carlo Jona
Sharon Sherman - Thyme and Place Design “Because I live in Northern New Jersey, I have a lot of things going on in Weehawken and Jersey City and it’s for Millennials. So we have changed our marketing strategy. We are on Instagram, we’re on Twitter. Getting the picture has been my entrée into that group. They’re buying $3,000,000 brownstones in Brooklyn. They are changing the market and how we need to market. It’s about reaching them on platforms where they do their research and work.” Matt Kolk - ECH+D “So that’s an excellent point. We have 25 designers in the room and there’ll be 25 different answers but you guys are the experts. How do you talk to the different generations?”
Barbara Laughton and Matt Garrdina
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Trish Herson - Trish Herson Interiors “For Millennials, it’s education. They’re so used to a picture world they don’t know what’s behind that picture. Our role is more consulting rather than selling. We have to help them understand what features cost, how the pricing works so they can make informed decisions, and that’s where we earn their trust.”
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Carlo Vona - Paramount Stone “This is not the car salesman approach, that’s not what we do. Lots of people coming in are in say, a 1500 sq. ft. Cape on the outskirts of Darien or the nicer neighborhoods of Stamford. It’s their first home, their first child, they know they they’re moving on to something different. They want to know what is the industry trend? What’s going to give me the most bang for my buck, what is the resale value? I think our team does a great job informing customers, what’s timeless and what’s going to sell in five years.
Brian Kries
Tara Dellacrowe
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“They’re coming in armed and ready. As a shop owner, as a business person, I want to be the professional in my field. I want to be the most educated, I want to deliver a product along with the expectations of that product. I think that’s one of the reasons I’m able to last in the marketplace. Integrity, education, follow-through.” Sean Clarke - Clarke “Isn’t there a danger in saying ‘This is true for all Millennials or any segment?’ Right now we’re tracking age groups. Making sure our message matches what the market needs. There’s a lot of evidence that supports the fact that Millennials like authenticity as much as any generation before them. I’m not a kitchen designer but I work with kitchen designers on a daily basis. Millennials like the mix of old and new; mixing old, plain wood with brand new materials and then plunking a nice heavy slice of technology right in the middle of it. It’s how you take that picture and turn it into reality; you show them this is 150 year old wood from a river in Oregon, this is the latest, greatest, hottest thing you’ve ever seen and it has a cell phone charger!
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Nick Geragi
Karin Nakashima and Joe Najmy
Jennifer Howard and Natasha Vecca
Karin Nakashima
THINK RACKING BILLIARD BALLS Everybody; kids, dad, mom, are über busy. They spend their days careening off this way and that. When they walk in the front door, sometimes with friends or colleagues in tow, almost invariably, the first stop is the kitchen. People want to get some hang time and to debrief, but they’re in motion and the next destination--whether it’s the in-home office, homework, or computer games--is already cued up in their minds. How can good design corral that vital energy and motion so that people settle and you can keep the initial conversation going? Tyra Dellacroce - Connecticut Stone “One of the things that we’re seeing is that people want to come in, sit down, share about what went on in their day. So one of the big challenges we’re seeing in design is that people want to have seating at their island which means the islands are extending past 10 feet. It’s been a really big trend in the last 10 or 15 kitchens. And yet stone size is not growing and the quartz slabs aren’t growing, so we’ve been really challenged on how to work with those materials and how to integrate them along with man-made quartz, along with marble, to extend the island so that clients will have the appearance of a seamless top. Carlo Vona - Paramount Stone “We’re definitely seeing a shift from marble to quartz. Everyone wants manmade solid surfaces. Something that is maintenance free, something that is not going to be toxic, that is antimicrobial. User friendly. We’re seeing it in entry level renovations, in spec homes and in fifty-million dollar homes in Greenwich.” 34
Barbara Laughton - Front Row Kitchens “I have Carrara marble in my kitchen but I’m selling quartz like crazy. I love my Carrara marble. There’s this beautiful patina and there’s etching from use but I know eventually they can come and sand it all out and clean it up. The thing is, I don’t know how to express that to Millennials. It’s okay to let it age, it’s okay for it to reveal that it’s being used. They want perfection and natural stone is not going to give you that.” Joe Najmy - Nu Kitchens “The question is, will quartz be the Corian of the future as people look back on this era? We try to get more authentic in terms of design, if it’s a fake door, it’s not a real door, then it shouldn’t be there. You want things to look like what they’re supposed to be. Carlo Jona – Paramount Stone “It’s all about authenticity. If you travel into New Jersey, Bergen County, Rockland County, where all the TV show “Housewives” came from, those houses were laminated cherry, dry-bit stucco on the outside, concrete pavers everywhere. There’s a stigma where we live that if it’s not authentic, it’s not of value. In terms of advertising, I think it’s like the stock market, I think we need to diversify. I think we need to stay in print, get someone to do social media, have an amazing site. You need to do anything you have to do to create an amazing user experience. It infuriates me if someone walks through my door and someone doesn’t stand at attention and salute them. When I walk into an establishment, I want to feel like I’m the only person in the room. I want three people to come out and ask me what I want.
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“If you look out there, you see a lot of magazines in trouble. What I’ve noticed is that East Coast Home+Design is on a rocket trajectory. It’s everywhere. Amazing photography, great stories, it’s a really beautiful book. So we’re very happy to be hosting all of you at this first Annual Kitchen Designer’s Roundtable with them” - Sean Clarke Manhattan With a chic, sophisticated aesthetic, THINK CONNECTIVE TISSUEour Manhattan Collection’s contemporary teak framing is defined by clean lines emphaWhat if it isn’t about a generation war? Among the in-person, sized by horizontal slats. Beautiful teak wood is perfectly need to touch, see and feel it sensibilities of the Boomers, the selected for outdoor gathering spaces, featuring rich coloring and naturally oils which resist the elements. straight talk, protective informal style of Gen X, and the networking,
multi-media savvy Millennials, there is common ground. And that is the living, sacred heart of every home, the kitchen. Matt Kolk - ECH+D “We’re seeing a shift at our magazine too. Going back to the comment about Gen X, we see a huge opportunity in the marketplace for people who have been in their homes for five, six, seven years, who think the economy stinks and they aren’t going anywhere. Instead, they’re putting very personalized kitchens in. These are the older generations.”
Carlo Vona - Paramount Stone “That’s what’s driving the market now. In Fairfield County; Greenwich has always been Greenwich, New Canaan is at a standstill, the lights are off in Ridgefield, Wilton doesn’t exist, Darien is slow, Westport could go either way. I’ve done a lot of renovation work this year for my contractors, my builders and my architects, there’s nothing new springing up. Renovation is what’s hot right now. Bourdeaux Trish Herson - Trish Herson Interiors Crafted by hand using reclaimed elm—salvaged from beams col“I just want to mentionbuildings—our this other trend I’m seeing evolving.will lected from centuries-old Bourdeaux Collection Baby Boomers are changing their houses enhancing be the focal pointand of your outdoorthem; space.
they’re adding a separate kitchen and they’re adding many Lighting andsoaccessories bringcome, together allchildren the elmore amenities that their children and their ements in a room and separate what can become a bring their children. ARCHITECT pedestrian space. In this dining space, the Niermann Christopher Pagliaro Weeks chandelier, Sean Clarke - Clarke gold candlesticks and eglomise Nick Sajda bowl brimming withbut hydrangeas in keeping “I live in Massachusetts, my family is are fromall Stamford and Pagliaro Bartels Sajda Architects with a beautifully appointed and glamorous dining we own and operate a business here in Connecticut, this is my 3room Pine Streetfamily and friends. second for home. Connecticut has a lot of issues, people leaving, Norwalk, CT 06854 home values plummeting. Being from Massachusetts, sort of 203.838.5517 Glamour haveamong to stop designing an outside doesn’t pair of eyes, the when many great things ainyoung this pbs-archs.com girl’s room. A crib studded with jewels, whimsical state are the train lines. Public transportation. Youa can get to table for City afternoon beautiful window comtreatNew York so easily.tea, Thisand is such a solid bedroom LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT ments in bright fuchsia are what a little girl’s dreams munity, you’ve got to celebrate that. Look at what’s going on Tara Vincenta and fantasies areinmade outside these walls Southof. Norwalk; there’s over 800 units ARTEMIS Landscape Architects Hamptons Seating of residential apartments being built right now. I talked to the 277 Fairfield Avenue #4 A simply elegant design, our Hamptons Outdoor A design with glamorous details is not for Dining every clidevelopers and you know who’s buying these apartments? Both Bridgeport, CT Collection is06604 inspiredwho by classic, English gardens. Thesethan ent, but for those appreciate it, I am more Millennials and Baby Boomers, they both want the same thing all-weather furnishings are artisan-crafted from natural teak 203.683.1808 willing to rise to the occasion! but for different reasons. hardwood. artemisla.com Their beautiful frames are hand-finished to emphasize the wood’s coloring and unique, organic features.
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Artistic Tile
as well asRESOURCES the hope of a story that is not yet over—that creation and life continue. I’d like to acknowledge my collaboraKitchen DesignGrant Tippin andNuKitchens torsArchitectural and friends, Corey Kim Nelson, who John Rehm Najmy have brought a whole lot ARTISTICTILE.COM of beauty into thisJoeworld.” Lisa Rehm Karin Nakashima 825 Barnum Avenue Cutoff 132 WaterisStreet A, In showcasing their creativity and compassion this#powerful Norwalk, CT 06854 Stratford, CT 06614 window display project, these top designers each offer a unique 203.831.9000 203.378.6911 design but all convey the same message: spread the word, raise nukitchens.com http://customkitchensct.com awareness and promote care, compassion and hope in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Paramount Stone Christopher Peacock Carlo Jona Natasha Vecca 338 Courtland Avenue 2 Dearfield Drive Stamford, CT 06906 Greenwich, CT, 06830 Resources 203.353.9119 203.862.9333 Christopher Spitzmiller pair of wide zig zag lamps in marigold christopherspitzmiller.com paramountstone.com peacockhome.com Farrow and Ball Designer Resources “Yellow is the most luminous of all colors in the with purchases and shipping, and can even suggest accommodations, Locations and Designers spectrum, in almost every culture it represents Tile America ifus.farrow-ball.com needed. Clarke Alexander Doherty sunshine,happiness, and warmth” Brian KriesDesign Sean Clarke Alexander Doherty Brookfield, Marco Barallon We arrive Doherty at Antichita Trois, where I’m introduced toFairfield Alberto Alexander 71 W 85th Street #4A AnfoManchester, Haven Heather Beland dillo. again I’m whisked away—indeed, my feet barely touch the UpperOnce West Side New York, NYNew 10024 New London, Stamford 64 S Main Street Gypset Travel ground!—to the interior of a somber palazzo. Of course, the ground 322 Columbus Avenue 212.390.1572 Acrylic bench with Mongolian Fur Seat Hatford CTfor 06854 assouline.com worlds-away.com floor isNorwalk, reserved acqua alta, and thus leftWest vacant. We enter an New York, NY 10023 alexanderdohertydesign.com 203.777.3637 203.838.9385 elevator that is small even by European standards and are brought to 212.799.0900 tileamerica.com clarkeliving.com So cozy - Worlds Away- yet interesting in the most spacious rooms ofany hisroom magnificent palazzo. Alberto guides Antonino Buzzetta us through his treasure trove of antiqueAntonino paintings on reverse Antonino Buzzetta Buzzetta Design glass; Trish Herson Interiors Connecticut Stone aFlatiron collection of lions (the symbol of Venice); ancient boxes, 39 W 14th Street #504 PUZZLE CHANDELIER Trish Herson some as Tara Dellacrowe beautiful on the inside as the outside; furniture; paintings; glass; and, 32 E. 22nd Street New York, NY 10011 Inspired by a house cards, our Puzzle Chandelier is made 203.878.1013 138 Woodmontof Road ofNew course, chandeliers (this is Venice, after all). I’ve always been fond of sheets of solid brass layered into a dynamic composition. York, NY 10010 917.971.0571 Milford, CT 06460 The clients wanted an open, free-flowingtrishhersoninteriors.com house that would take adThe Architectural Modernist feel isand warmed up by the luminous of212.334.8330 Venetian Murano chandeliers, now I’m convinced that antique antoninobuzzetta.com Design by Sara Baldwin for New Ravenna, The Aurelia from 203.882.1000 vantage of a dramatic waterside location ona circular a cove. Sellars Lathrop metal. your Puzzle Chandelier above table, like is theHang way to go. Delft Collection is a modern American interpretation of a cenThymewere and Place Designto colconnecticutstone.com Architects and Landscape Architects fortunate ourArtemis Nixon, or in a here fabulous Carmina Roth turies oldRoth familiar craft, . Shown isCarmina a foyer. hand cutSherman jewel glass Sharon laborate on this classic modern home. jonathanadler.com David isLapis, a Venetian partialMica, Persian descent on hisand father’s 32 EastRachtian Putnam Rothfinish. Interiors mosia shown inAvenue Lazuli,ofthem Lolite, Absolute White Deane Inc. 385 Clinton Avenue erie’s team decided to update to anCarmiña off-white Doing so side. At hisCT shop we find antique Persian rugs from Tabriz, Kashan, Greenwich, 06830 203.987.5961 Blue Spinel. Peter Deane Wyckoff, NJ 07481 not onlyHoward helped but also offered the enduring look While Lathrop ofrooms Sellars Lathrop provided the overall dePhoto credit: lighten Chuan the Bing. imagesbychuan.com Isfahan and East China, around which one could easily build a room. This 203.422.0990 carminarothinteriors.com jamieshop.com 1267 Main Street 201.847.1400 that couple for wasthe seeking. helped provide a sense of sign the direction housePlus, and the thecolor site, he knew it was important Ibiza Collection thoughtfully arranged and packed antiquethymeandplacedesign.com storeLounge also features glassStamford, 06902 uniformity home. from Artemis, to bring in within TaraCT M.the Vincenta a firm known for its exrestorationhardware.com ware, silverware, jewelry and important,Connie sought-after Jewish pieces. 203.327.7008 Connie Cooper Cooper pertisewhites, in coastal plants andsilver, sensitive ecological locations. Howard grays, which “really makes decorated the artdeaneinc.com What catches mytaupes eye areand paperweights from the 1950s, 396 Post Road East Connie Cooper Designs The couple were thrilled with the results—a timeless home that is says he and Tara “worked collaboratively to meld the interior of the work stand out nicely,” she says. with mythological creatures. Westport, CT 06880 58 adult High Point Road just as with welcoming to their kids as to their guests. house the exterior.” Front Row Kitchens 203.221.3117 Westport, CT 06880 White and was also integrated into sleeker modern Matt Garrdina Orseola Chiara walk me back to the where the tour began, powder and I am 203.256.9183 “Hedgerows and stone walls work together to formits thefixtures interplaytoof room, which was long and narrow, and needed Barbara Laughton pleasantly surprised to find myself in familiar surroundings. Then I Caleb Anderson conniecooperdesigns.com INTERIOR DESIGNER planes and solids that create the designthat aesthetic,” he The palbe small and modern. Laracircle, believes aresays. important 117 New realize we haveCanaan made Avenue a large and theywhites have given me a lesson D & D Building Valerie etteuse ofGrant hardscape materials is limited to washed rock, in smaller rooms thatriver have no narrow winNorwalk, CTVenice, 06850 into getting around too.and dark rooms Suite 1519 Caleb Anderson Valerie Grant Interiors concrete pavers, Ipe wood deck tiles and native stone outcropping. dows or 203.849.0302 don’t get much light. In this case, Lara “didn’t want 979 ThirdTuck Avenue Drake / Anderson 14 Friar Circle Retaining walls are natural concrete matching the pavers. A native to clutter the artwork,” she to says, “soa frontrowkitchens.com Leaving Venice islong like empty parting wall with with a lover; I daydream linger New York, NY 10022 67atIrving Place, 12th Floor Summit, NJ 07901 stone wall runs adjacent to the road and the parking area. instead I chose a delicately patterned silver-white wallpaper little longer before returning to reality. Visitors at least can take 212.752.5544 New York can NY 10003 917.921.1916 JWH Design Cabinetry to fill the wall&with a bit of shimmer and tons of interest.” comfort in bringing something back home—a beautiful lion, box, 212.754.3099 valeriegrantinteriors.com Tara white, provided aHoward clean, simple landscape that keeps fits thethe architecture and Jennifer The silver and gray color scheme small room chandelier, a commissioned Luigi Bevilacqua fabric for that very speMichael Herold drakeanderson.com spectacular waterfront setting. As she explains, “Howard and I were 1111 Boston Post Road light and bright evenunique thoughbag. it has no like windows. cial upholstery and/or Finds these add sparkle to 160 RouteRye, 17 North NY 10580 The Jenning Brutalist Ribbon was to be simple and architectural, in agreement that the landscape interiors and wardrobe, lifting one out of the sea of sameness. Paramus, NJ 07652 Michael Herold 914.967.6020 Table Lamp will dazzle thethefor particularly the entrance to home, thewith use aoftint clipped Lara likes toatpick a whiteincolor wallwith paint of 201.265.4030 Michael Herold Design and verjwhdesigns.com modern home with striking ilboxwood hedges, ivy groundcover, concrete plank walkways the color that will coordinate with any other colors in the Venice is a bewitching city that I can’t 287 waitS to getStreet back#8 to as soon Main lumination, simple geometric nacular stone site walls.” She then uses ayearn brighter whiteAnd on itthe window trim, asroom. possible. It makes me for more. makes me wonder, Patrick Mele Lambertville, NJ 08530 KLAFFS designs and boldto metal done with the off-white color on the doors and ceilings contrast Cockatoo Wallcovering Scalamandre Spring 2016 fabric Where will The Geragi Antiques Diva takeIndoor/Outdoor me to travel and shop next? Upper East Side 609.460.4763 Nick BIZET TABLE inher aThe gold leafwas finish. One of the project goals to has extend the direct coastal vegetation wall. Unless clients insist, she tries to steer them away osborneandlittle.com book. colors Linda selected are the 142 East 73rd Street mydesignermichael.com 28 Washington Street A stunning hand-wrought base is topped zincdoor.com into the house, all while becoming part of the shoreline. To achieve following: 27056-002 Surf, 27059-002 Surf,for 27058-002 from white fabrics on upholstered items, obvious practiThe Antiques Diva &with Co New York, NY 10021 Norwalk, CT 06854 tempered glass. Distinctively Osborne and Little -27067-003 fun in awhite/light-colored child’s room or perhaps a mudSurf, Surf scalamandre.com thisreasons. the team used a circular variety of ornamental grasses and perennials, cal The only upholstery fabric Toma Clark Haines 212.737.7400 Patrick Mele 203.866.1603 room bathroom or any space needing unexpected pops of colorof individual and suitable for a range including echinacea, Russian sage and joe-pye weed to fill is in among she likes to use is a faux-leather vinyl fabric, which great “Surf’s up, I love these fabrics for settings. + 49 (0) 171klaffs.com 386 2213 Before period andfresh contemporary 203.550.2264 theresisting native shoreline vegetation and enhance the natural cove setting. at stains and dirt. spring, they remind me of the water” christopherguy.com antiquesdiva.com patrickmele.com Zanzibar Ticking Woven Cotton Rug
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E A S T
C O A S T
HOME+DESIGN
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Comfort with a Little Bit of Sparkle Amy Andrews helps a family create a dream vacation home to match their lifestyle and personality Story by Emily Ballard | Photography by Robert Benson
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artha’s Vineyard evokes a lifestyle of comfort and relaxation. It’s a place for vacationing and entertaining, where the pace of life is laid back, and a typical day includes sailing, biking and marveling at expansive ocean views. The island’s quintessential beach towns can be enjoyed year-round, and, indeed, it is a destination that many call home.
The owners of this residence in Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard spent much time searching for the perfect property for a family vacation home. Once the construction plans were in place, they turned to their close friend, Amy Andrews of Hilton Interiors, to design a space that both reflects their style and has all the charm that defines this iconic area. Roots in Design Amy always knew that interior design was the path for her. She went to college with a clear passion and vision for her design future, and has worked in the industry since her college years. Though some days, she jokes, “it is still work,” it is a creative outlet that inspires and motivates her. After years of collaboration between Amy Andrews on the design East Coast Home + Design
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The guest and pool houses offer additional space for relaxation, designed with the same bright elements as the main house.
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side and Chuck Hilton on the architectural side, the two decided to join forces. Chuck—whose company had never had an interior design division—recognized the benefit of adding Amy to his team. Amy respected Chuck as a leader in the industry, and in the spring of 2017, Hilton Interiors emerged as a powerhouse meeting of the minds. Joining Chuck was a welcome and natural progression for Amy. “It has been a great, exciting adventure so far,” she says. “I’d been with a previous firm for half my life, so it was a nice opportunity to do something a little different and be involved a bit more in architecture, but still be doing design. I always loved the architecture part—the planning, the spec’ing, the materials…all the way to pillows, photographs and all the accessories.” The details are what propelled Amy to success and are demonstrated in this extensive project she completed in Martha’s Vineyard. For this home, she worked with Patrick Ahearn, a Boston architect who specializes in waterfront properties. This was no ordinary design project for Amy. Since the homeowners are dear friends, she had a clear understanding of their design style and personalities. When she speaks about this home, there is a distinct feeling of warmth and love; it was very special for her to be able to collaborate with her friend to create something comfortable and charming in such a picturesque setting. “It’s such a beautiful view and 44
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The chandelier with crystal elements keep with the elegant design of the house while adding some sparkle.
great house,” Amy says. “It was fun to help her achieve something for her family that reflects her, her husband, her kids—everyone has their individual space. And it has a little sparkle, like her.” When the family found this piece of property, an older house was situated on it. After investigating the process of restoring and renovating the existing structure, they decided it would be more beneficial to tear it down and build from the ground up. Having older children in high school and college, the couple found it essential to build a waterfront oasis that would serve as a gathering place and a vacation home for the family. Vacation with the Comforts of Home Amy ’s goal was to capture her client’s personality and design a space that was elegant but not too serious, since it was their summer home. Her friend had a distinct aesthetic and knew what she wanted. They collaborated and laid out every detail so the design team could hit the ground running. Since it was a new construction, the home was a blank slate, in need of everything. Amy set about designing and choosing all the tile, lighting, countertops, bathroom layouts, and every piece of furniture inside and out. She was tasked with designing not only the main house, but also the guest and pool houses. 46
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With her client in mind, Amy chose a more neutral palette that provided a cohesive quality throughout the entire space. Hardwood floors paired with white cabinetry and furnishings provide a light and airy ambience with a pristine farmhouse feel. She wove in grays, blues, pops of pink and crystal elements to add the sparkle and shine that embody her friend’s character. Amy says the bedroom with the gray and hot pink was the perfect choice for this homeowner’s disposition. The bright feel of the home is a brilliant complement to the spectacular views and light that stream through the windows. The vibrant blue waters and plush green landscape can fully be appreciated through the design of the property. Beautiful porches with simple yet comfortable furnishings allow for the ultimate front-row seats to spectacular waterfront sunsets. The waterfront views can be enjoyed throughout the entire house. “We tried to make the interiors personal to her and her family, but not take away from what you see outside,” Amy says, describing her design choices. “We tried to create spaces that feel like their family.” They achieved this by using beautiful stone, glass sconces and unique lighting fixtures. The chandelier in the dining room, the hanging glass fixtures in the kitchen, and the clear glass lamp in the living room are all examples of how Amy
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blended her sophisticated style with the right amount of sparkle and shine to match her client. One area that showcases this decision in a spectacular fashion is the master bathroom in the main house, which has silver patterned wallpaper and a sparkly mirror. The beautiful tub is set into the space much like a window box, and Amy says it feels like a little jewel box. “Having stayed there,” she says, “I know it is a nice place to get up, brush your teeth and look out the window. The silver wallpaper is kind of sparkly, and it reflects the homeowner and the light you see outside.” Describing the space, Amy points out all the areas that offer comfort and leisure, but says that, as is the case with so many family houses, the kitchen has become the most popular area. “That kitchen is sort of the hub of the whole house,” she says. “They have all these beautiful rooms, and everyone hangs out in the kitchen.” A neutral palette allows for a warm and comfortable space without overpowering the views and outdoor amenities.
For this reason, she made deliberate choices when it came to seating, storage and counter space. A large farmhouse sink, large countertops and a kitchen island with seating for four spill over into an additional dining room with a long white table and chairs, window seating and shelving for storage and East Coast Home + Design
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display. This space was designed with a blend of tradition and contemporary elements to create a warm and inviting space with maximum functionality. The kitchen island is constructed out of Brazilian blue granite, and the perimeter countertops are a natural white quartzite. The backsplash is a glass mosaic with a playful ocean design of octopus and starfish, and is grouted with a silver color to pick up the stainless and nickel accents throughout the kitchen. On the exterior of the home, the pool frames the courtyard between the main house and the carriage house. On the lower level of the carriage house is the pool house and cabana, and the guest house occupies the upper level. This area was designed as an extension of the main house with a similar clean and airy aesthetic.
Unique lighting and pristine white furnishings with pops of blue provide a stylish yet functional space.
Island Life Amy feels lucky to have spent this time with her close friend and to have worked in such a beautiful setting, but the location of this home did present a few challenges. Martha’s Vineyard can sometimes be difficult to get East Coast Home + Design
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The family area was designed with grays and blues to complement the outdoor aesthetic.
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The extraordinary master bathroom provides ultimate relaxation with beautiful views, clean lines, silver wallpaper and lots of shine.
to, Amy explains, so she tried to have all the items delivered at once. “With a destination job on an island where the family needed to sleep and have guests and friends, you plan to have as much delivered at once as you can,” she recalls. “Our goal was to have a move-in ready house.” Since Amy came onto the project when the house plans were
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mostly solidified, she was able to jump on board with the design process and deliver the end result to her friend in about a year. The decisions she made enable the family to enjoy the space year-round. “We definitely wanted to keep it open and airy and light,” she says. “We did it so there is texture, so if they are there for Thanksgiv-
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ing or in the winter, it is warm and cozy. At the same time, we kept it light and bright because it is their summer residence.� As you travel from room to room, the nooks and crannies invite you to settle in, prop up your feet and stay awhile. The French doors open to patios and balconies, so you can enjoy light breezes of sea air. This is what defines true relaxation, and is what vacation dreams are made of. Resources Interior Design Amy Andrews Hilton Interiors 170 Mason Street Greenwich, CT 06830 203.717.1005 hiltonarchitects.com Architect Patrick Ahearn Architect LLC Patrick Ahearn Nevin Square, 17 Winter Street Edgartown, MA 02539 508.939.9312 patrickahearn.com
The master bedroom captures the homeowner’s style with gray walls, light furnishings and pops of pink carefully placed throughout.
Builder Rosbeck Builders 20 East Line Road Edgartown, MA 02539 508.693.6300 rosbeckbuilders.com
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NEO-COLONIAL GRANDEUR A new construction by Michael Smith Architects brings history back home to this residential lot in Scarsdale. Story by Anastasia Storer | Photography by Jonathan Wallen
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T
he success of a new construction project rests with the architecture firm hired to bring the client’s vision to life. When that project is a new home for your family, the choice is even more important— you need an architect who not only understands the principles of architecture, but also the intangible qualities that make a house a home. Michael Smith Architects is a small firm that specializes in highly customized single-family residences and small boutique commercial projects, with a particular focus on Westchester County, the Hamptons and a few properties in New York City. Michael Smith, the firm’s principal, began working freelance in 1999 before officially launching his company in 2008. He has since added two partners—including an interior designer—and a small team to take care of day-to-day business and administrative tasks, freeing him to do what he loves most—the design process. And while the firm is always cognizant of current architectural trends, “We still have the same love of late 1800s and early 1900s Northeastern architecture,” says Michael, “and that drives a lot of what we do.”
Flanked by two lantern-topped plinths, the driveway entrance gently turns gradually up and past the front of the house. A palegray granite covers the central façade, with white clapboard siding on the wing extensions on either side.
One aspect of modern architecture that the firm is glad to latch on to is improved technology. New technologies and materials have expanded the capabilities of what the team has been able to do with interior spaces. “The engineered lumber products allow us to be more creative and flexible in terms of how we design interior spaces,” Michael explains. “We like rooms that are open and filled with light, and modern technology has made it much easier to really open up those interior spaces. Modern construction technology makes it possible to do longer, wider spans without the use of a lot of steel or structural pillars—something that just wasn’t possible 20 years ago.” The firm’s team members are also East Coast Home + Design
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The gently curved staircase softens the right angles of the foyer and central hall that leads into the family room.
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strong believers in sustainability and in their projects being as environmentally friendly and “green” as possible. To that end, they are members of the U.S. Green Building Council as a public affirmation of their commitment to using green, energy-efficient and sustainable features and materials whenever possible. All the company’s projects are grounded in its overall philosophy of creatively and purposefully applying the design principles of simplicity, consistency and authenticity to ensure that the client’s needs and requirements are met in a way that is beautiful, functional and timeless. The firm’s focus on and love of historical architecture made it the perfect choice for this project in Scarsdale, a moderately sized village in Westchester County, NY, located about 25 miles from Midtown Manhattan. Historical Perspective Scarsdale’s history begins in 1701 when its founder, Caleb Heathcote, was able to get the lands he’d purchased at the end of the 17th century elevated to a royal manor, thanks East Coast Home + Design
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to his influence in the provincial government. The land passed to his daughters, but in 1774 the property was broken up, and it became an official town on March 7, 1788. Both American and British soldiers passed through the town during the American Revolution—and there was even a small skirmish between the two forces there. Scarsdale struggled to thrive and its population remained low until the mid-1800s, when railroad service began in the Bronx River Valley. The town didn’t get its first store until 1912; three years later, its population of 3,000 voted to incorporate as a village, and by the end of the 1920s, the population had grown to nearly 10,000. The historical heritage of the village means that many of its streets and neighborhoods are a treasure trove of historical homes, from the early Colonial style to the Victorian. Like many New England towns, Scarsdale lost a number of its historical buildings to new construction, and its historic preservation committee constantly works to preserve the integrity of the historical homes and buildings that remain. A Home that Remembers History Though there may have been an older historical building on this site at one point, by the time the current owners purchased the property, the structure had long since been replaced with a newer residential construction. The owners decided they wanted to tear down the existing home 64
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Beautiful French doors in the family room lead to the pool and patio area in the backyard.
East Coast Home + Design
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Dark wood paneling and built-in cabinetry give the library a masculine feel. The French doors lead out to a covered porch area, beyond which is the pool.
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Glass-paneled built-in cabinetry reflects the light, brightening the butler pantry.
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and replace it with a house that would reflect the architectural history of Scarsdale and blend in with the many historical homes in the neighborhood. Michael approached this project first and foremost as he does every project—by considering the site: not just its size and location, but its topography and any potential obstructions or views. It’s the site that helps give a project its initial direction. The land for this project, one of the larger lots in the area, was a flat, interior lot within the neighborhood. This made it a fairly straightforward design process, since there were no special challenges or features of the lot itself that needed to be incorporated into the finished design. Beyond the site considerations, the project is about what the client wants. “At the end of the day, we’re a service, and it’s about wanting our clients to be 100% happy with the work we do and the result,” Michael says. “We apply the client’s needs to the site to come up with our first take on the potential design.” The neighborhood and surrounding area were originally developed in the early 1900s, and there are a number of historical homes near the site, including both Colonial and Tudor Revival. For the clients, it was important that their new home blend in as much as possible with the older historical homes. It often takes some back and forth with the client to come up with a finished design. In the case of this project, the process was much easier and faster because the clients came to Michael with a very comprehensive idea of what they wanted. “They came in with hand sketches that were very clear—a symmetrical, classic Scarsdale Colonial,” he says. East Coast Home + Design
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Creating the final design for the exterior was one of Michael’s’ favorite aspects of the project. While a lot of homes claim to be Neo-Colonial, unfortunately many of them have designs that aren’t executed well. Michael’s love for this architectural period ensured that the final design would be historically accurate as well as aesthetically pleasing; he spent a lot of time on the particulars of the home’s exterior, such as the windows and all the 70
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exterior cornices and other details of the façade. This attention to detail plays out beautifully. The home’s exterior is a harmonious fusion of three iconic American architectural styles. The steep, side-gabled roof and the relatively simple façade with clapboard siding are classic Colonial, which is the primary influence for the home. But other architectural styles
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The charcoal-gray accent wall and island bar bring the exterior color scheme into the home in the basement bar area.
of the same time period are also apparent: notably, the front entrance is indicative of the Federal style, with its double-columned portico and sidelights, and there is perfect mirroring of those columns on the faux balcony above the entrance. In addition, the orderly placement of the multi-lite windows along the front façade and the use of cut granite stone on the front of the home are reminiscent of the Colonial Georgian style.
The landscape design, by Studer Design Associates, is simple and elegant, providing unobstructed views of both the front and backyards, while preserving mature trees on either side to naturally frame the house on the lot. The backyard is the perfect blend of serene beauty and modern pleasures, with a full-size pool to provide summertime fun and relief from the heat, a putting green for the husband to practice his game, and a fire pit for summer cookouts and autumn s’mores-making under the stars. East Coast Home + Design
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View of the backyard from the putting green. Here, the faรงade is all white clapboard siding. A trio of French doors leads into the family room area of the home; the covered porch to the right offers a place to put muddy boots and shoes before entering the home.
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The interior of the home is classic Colonial—with the large central hall flanked by wings on either side—executed on a grander scale. In addition to the two main floors, the home’s basement and attic are also fully finished, giving the house a total 9,000 square feet of living space. The firm was also responsible for the design of all the interior molding and trim as well as the builtins, all of which were inspired by traditional Colonial style. (The interior decorating of the home seen in the photos, however, was done by the clients themselves.) The size of the home was something Michael had to compensate for inside, in terms of how to make sure the large, open spaces felt cozy and intimate. Using molding and trim to frame the rooms not only mirrored the Colonial aesthetic, but also created a visual illusion of smaller spaces. Michael also added a full wet bar to the living room to give it a comfortable, personal feel, transforming it from a room to be looked at into a room the clients will want to use for entertaining. Large windows and French doors let in the light throughout the house, creating an atmosphere of warmth and welcome. The hallmarks of Colonial architecture are clearly present both inside and outside this home, giving new life to the architectural history of the land upon which it sits. The beautiful symmetry and balanced proportions of the house give it the formal, refined aesthetic one expects from a Neo-Colonial home, making it a worthy addition to Scarsdale’s historical legacy and a home that will be cherished by generations to come. Resources: Architect Michael Smith Architects Michael Smith 41 North Main Street, Suite 101 Norwalk, CT 06854 203.563.0553 michaelsmitharchitects.com Landscape Architect Studer Design Associates Craig A. Studer 679 Danbury Road Ridgefield, CT 06877 203.894.1428 studerdesignassociates.com
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MAGNIFICENTLY MODERN 2018 ANNUAL KITCHEN + BATH ISSUE
A spectacular collection of fabulous modern kitchens and baths from our favorite designers
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CARDELLO ARCHITECTS
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ou’d never believe this home began as a traditional Cape Cod before its transformation by Cardello Architects. It is now a sophisticated, modern beach house with an open floor plan that allows the home to take advantage of the spectacular views of the Long Island Sound.
Significant structural issues were involved in this project. “Turning a traditional New England cape into a modern beach house without knocking it down was a huge challenge,” says the project’s architect, David LaPierre. “Taking this home made of solid walls and minimal glass, removing the majority of its structural integrity and using a steel cage to hold it all together was a lot of fun.” The resulting interior space has an open and airy feel. “Open floor plans give the family a chance to engage with one another rather than be separated in individual spaces,” explains David. “The open concept offers the designer the opportunity to be more playful with the design, which lends itself well to more modern interpretations.” The visually interesting makeup of the new space is an immediate attention-grabber. The kitchen, dining area and family room resemble interlocking puzzle pieces—an aesthetic that’s intriguingly reflected in the center of the kitchen by combining a rectangular, wood-topped island with an attached, L-shaped marble section that wraps around one edge to form a breakfast eating area.
and textures ensured that the individual spaces remained distinct, even as they simultaneously worked together as a harmonious whole. Her choices also beautifully echoed the natural landscape, effectively bringing the outside into the home. This amazing design work truly shines in the bright, open kitchen. The cabinetry is a rift sawn oak stained a gray that mimics the soft, pale color of driftwood. The same gray can be found in the striations of the marble on the island and the long counter that separates the kitchen from the family room space. The kitchen wall and backsplash are a gleaming, reflective tile material that shimmers and sparkles like sunshine on water. Even the accent colors are carefully chosen to match the colors found among the native plants and flowers that bloom outside in springtime. Large awning-style windows allow the natural lighting to provide the primary illumination for the space during the day, and give the home amazing views of the beach, ocean and sky. This modern kitchen is more than just a functional space—it’s a visual vantage point, a place to enjoy the stunning views of the world outside. Resources:
Cardello Architects David LaPierre 97 Washington Street Norwalk, CT 06854 The interior design was a crucial part of the renovation, and it was in- 203.853.2524 terior design lead Rachelle Roll whose expert selections of materials cardelloarchitects.com
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LEICHT
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reating beautiful and inviting spaces that incorporate the clean, sleek lines and minimalism of the contemporary style can be tricky. For Leah Diamond of LEICHT, it all begins by getting to know the clients and having a clear understanding of their needs. “My goal is to learn as much as I can about how they like to work in the kitchen,” says Leah. “How many cooks are in the space at one time? How do they like to entertain? I also want to know how they prefer to store or display their kitchen items, be they functional or decorative, and what kinds of appliances they need.”
The kitchen’s simple yet elegant color palette is glorious; the coppery tones of the island’s wood and marble, the Ann Sacks tile backsplash and accent wall brings an earthy feel to counterbalance the pristine white. The design warms the space while also providing visual interest with its varied materials textures and metallic sheen.
In the bathroom, Leah was inspired to give the client a comfortable place to sit and get ready in the morning, as the previous bathroom had no such space. Thus, she created the makeup area at the end of the bathroom vanity and the added homey touch of the cushioned bench beneath the window. Leah was also able This understanding is crucial to the design process; it allows Leah to design to give the room some much-needed additional storage during the renovation. spaces that will best meet the client’s practical needs, while also giving a room its The dove-gray hues make for a soft, soothing space, perfect for taking a relaxing aesthetic and ambience. shower or bath at the end of a busy day. In this case, the homeowners knew they wanted to work with Leah after meeting The two rooms are a perfect illustration of what happens when there is a beautiher. “We connected immediately and sensed her expertise not only in design, but ful synergy and collaboration between designer and homeowner—spaces that are in grasping what we were looking to achieve,” says the client. “Leah is amazingly functional, graceful and lovely. talented at utilizing space to be both functional and beautiful.” Resources: For the kitchen, Leah started from the knowledge that the client had a passion for cooking and spent a great deal of time in her kitchen. She changed the floor LEICHT Homeowner plan to not only create better functionality and flow when working in the space, Leah Diamond Patricia Karr but also to enhance the open floor plan, which is key to the modern look. “The 11 E. Putnam Avenue pkarr@houlihanlawrence.com kitchen—the heart of the house—is open to the living spaces to allow family Greenwich, CT 06830 917.539.6421 members to interact in a more social and relaxed way,” Leah says. Here, there is 347.740.7911 | 203.340.9933 seating space at the kitchen island and the dining area nearby, driven by the idea leichtwestchester.com that space inspires socialization: one can sit and enjoy eating, watching TV or lounging comfortably with a drink from the bar. 78
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TRISH HERSON INTERIORS
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nspired by nature, this master bath remodel took a cramped, dark space and transformed it into an airy, light room with a luxurious spa look and feel.
Trish Herson of Trish Herson Interiors believes in designing spaces that support the clients’ functional needs, but also reflect their lifestyle. This client gave Trish carte blanche as long as she maintained the existing laundry chute and gave the client a separate makeup vanity area.
The client wanted the bathroom to feel like a spa; to marry this with Trish’s own desire to bring nature and light into the space meant removing all existing fixtures and moving the plumbing so the shower area could be shifted to the other side of the room. This allowed a window to be installed in the exterior wall. The clients weren’t sure about the window at first. “I told them the window was integral to opening up the space,” Trish explains. “It would provide light and also give them a lovely view of their gorgeous property.” Moving the shower provided room to increase its footprint—something the clients wanted—while still making room for the two-sink vanity and the custom makeup vanity. To prevent bathroom clutter, Trish added a clever rotating mirror that conceals makeup and sundries, ensuring that the bathroom has a clean look. The mirror also reflects the light from the window into the room. The makeup vanity area has another secret: it hides the laundry chute behind a vertical drawer beneath the vanity top. Trish’s choices in materials are key to evoking both the outdoors as well as the luxury day spa atmosphere in the room. She likes to start by selecting the tile; it “creates mood and helps me decide what the rest of the fixtures should look like,” she says. Here, the variegated wall tile calls to mind smooth river stones, an image that is echoed in the light cobblestone on part of the floor and shower. “I wanted to give the feeling of a flowing river,” Trish explains. The pale stone under the floating vanities also helps keep the room from feeling dark. The portion of the floor that gets the most foot traffic is done in a chevron-patterned, oak-hued tile, acting as the “earth” around the cobblestone “river.” The ceiling is wood, again giving the feeling of being in a spa. The warm red of the wood highlights the red tones in the shower wall, which is constructed of ledger stone to add more warmth and natural texture. Also important to imparting the room with a natural, spa-like atmosphere are the light fixtures. Golden light from circular mirrors is reminiscent of sunlight, and the stunning, flower-like Hubbardton Forge Corona chandelier feels alive and organic. The new room appears larger without actually adding any square footage; the new layout and light make it seem as though the space has doubled in size. Overall, the look of the new master bath is a modern, beautiful blend of the best of both European and Asian spa aesthetics. Resources: Trish Herson Trish Herson Interiors 576 Post Road Darien, CT 06820 203.878.1013 trishhersoninteriors.com East Coast Home + Design
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JWH DESIGN & CABINETRY
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or Jennifer Howard, principal of JWH Design & Cabinetry, every design project begins with a conversation about the client’s needs and an assessment of the space itself. From there, Jennifer carefully plans to use all the space to its full potential, focusing on clean, simple lines to achieve her fresh, contemporary designs. When clients come to her in their quest for a modernized kitchen or bath, many are seeking room designs with elegant simplicity. Clients see it as a way to “be better organized and find respite amidst a stimulating, busy life,” Jennifer says. Open floor plans are also popular right now, as families seek to better connect with one another while at home, instead of being separated in individual rooms. Jennifer believes that rooms feel best when the flow between them is unobstructed and easy, and she enjoys using color, furnishings and lighting creatively to visually define spaces instead of walls. Rounded geometric shapes that echo those found in the natural world are pleasing to the eye, as in the soft rectangles of chairs, and the curves and globes of decorative lighting over kitchen islands. The polished surfaces of countertops, kitchen islands and tables make them gleam and reflect the light. Cabinetry, of course, plays a vital role in much of Jennifer’s work, and she carefully designs creative, custom cabinets that enhance the contemporary aesthetic of the overall space. Her choices in drawer pulls, faucets and fixtures echo both the clean lines of the cabinets and the other elements in the room as well. Neutral color palettes and homogeneous color themes are other hallmarks of today ’s modern aesthetic. They work in Jennifer’s favor, subtly reinforcing the relaxed feel of the smooth lines of the room, and allowing her to create spaces that are soothing to the eye. The neutrals also offer a ready canvas for splashes of color—such a bright tangerine or subtle cornflower blue—and make it easy for clients to add their own colorful personal touches without fear of clashing with the main kitchen palette. Natural materials, such as wood and stone, and unique patterns and textures in floor and wallcoverings add warmth and comfort, and prevent the neutral palettes from making the rooms feel cold or bland. With their streamlined and sometimes even futuristic look, Jennifer’s finished designs are inviting spaces ready to embrace both today ’s modern style and the new trends of tomorrow. Resources: Jennifer Howard JWH Design & Cabinetry 1111 Boston Post Road Rye, NY 10580 914.967.6020 jwhdesigns.com
East Coast Home + Design
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INTERIOR DECISIONS
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he kitchen is the heart of a home, where the family gathers to eat, talk, and be together. The owners of this contemporary country home loved their house, but realized the kitchen was far too small to accommodate the needs of their larger extended family, which included their adult children and grandchildren. They needed a larger kitchen, one that felt welcoming and could be enjoyed by the whole family. Enter Karla Trincanello. Working with an architect, Karla completely redesigned the space, removing the wall between the kitchen and laundry room to in84
corporate that square footage into the new kitchen design. This increased the amount of counter space and allowed for the addition of more cabinets to the entire kitchen, including a small pantry cabinet next to the prep area near the stovetop. She chose white for the primary cabinets around the perimeter, pairing them with extralong decorative chrome pulls that add a contemporary touch and are easy for both old and young hands alike to grip. The old configuration of the kitchen and breakfast area suffered from a great deal of wasted space, and the two areas felt disconnected from one another due to different floor coverings. To unite the spaces, Karla re-floored both areas in a light hardwood that makes the space warm and inviting. The soft and comfy sectional in
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striking visual feature Karla created for the kitchen, using a wood post-and-lintel design to frame the range and hood area, where the marble’s veining is allowed to take center stage. The brushed stainless-steel exhaust hood echoes the silver tone of the cabinet pulls, and Karla gave the glass cabinets above the lintel a touchlatch mechanism instead of pulls to prevent the eye from being distracted, thus keeping the focus on the area within the postand-lintel frame. Across the kitchen from the stovetop area is a full butler pantry, linking the corridor between the kitchen and dining room. This area has additional storage and counter space and a double-oven setup, making it perfect as both a coffee station and a staging area for final food preparation for more formal dining.
the breakfast area is the same light-gray color as the island cabinetry, again creating a visual connection between the two spaces, but also adding a casual, homey feel. To accommodate large family gatherings, the sectional can double as banquette seating, and the cocktail table expands and converts into a full dining table. An extra-large kitchen island makes use of the previously unused empty space. Constructed of beautiful white quartz Calacatta marble, it seats four and contains extra storage, including two refrigerated drawers as well as the microwave, keeping the bulky appliance off the counter and out of view. The same marble makes another appearance—as the backsplash in the
The finishing touch of adding evenly distributed recessed lighting and two polished nickel pendants for ambient lighting over the kitchen island gives the space a sleek, modern feel—and brightens this 2017 ASID Design Excellence Gold Award-winning kitchen. Resources: Karla Trincanello Interior Decisions 140 Columbia Turnpike Florham Park, NJ 07932 973.765.9013 interiordecisions.com East Coast Home + Design
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KRISTA FOX INTERIORS
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an modern be magical? It can in the talented hands of Krista Fox, who transformed a dark, traditional kitchen into a light, enchanting space in which the clients were thrilled to spend time.
“Kitchens offer a welcome challenge because they begin with a list of functional requirements, but they also need to be comfortable enough to make guests want to stay and relax,” says Krista. “The original space was darker with granite counters and a big presence of heavy trims and molding that weighed it down both physically and mentally. The homeowners wanted a clean, bright and open space for gathering and sharing. My goal was to generate a more light and positive calming energy for the space.” To begin the transformation, Matthew opened up the west wall with expansive, wide windows to not just give the rooms beautiful views, but also connect the kitchen and dining area with nature’s beauty outside and to let in lots of sunlight, which warms up the space and counters the coolness of the monochromatic white-gray palette. “Prior to the renovation, even though the kitchen was large and the cabinets were white, the space had a very dark feel to it. Now everything feels more open,” explains Matthew. “All of the windows and doors were replaced with custom contemporary-style frame and moldings, enhancing the modern feel of the space.” Krista chose a lovely Calacatta Lincoln marble for the kitchen island and the backsplash wall over the range, but opted for a more durable Caesarstone for the perimeter countertops where the bulk of the utilitarian kitchen tasks will be done. Appliances are brushed stainless steel, and the custom-built cabinetry from V&A Construction is sleek, with simple hardware to reinforce the modern aesthetic. Instead of an exhaust hood, the fan system is hidden in the alcove ceiling to preserve the full visual effect of the large slab of marble. The real magic is in the playful, unique details Krista has added to the space. Above the kitchen island are three irregular globe-shaped pendants; semitranslucent and mirrored, they reflect the room in funhouse-like proportions, but also allow the tangle of golden lights inside to shine through. In the dining area, Krista placed a variegated, striped gray rug beneath the table to visually separate the space from the kitchen, and she chose fun, futuristic chairs for the dining table and a lighting fixture above that appears to be floating in midair. She added a splash of color at the small bar, using a custom blue-gray paint on the backpainted glass. The color not only complements the kitchen palette, it provides the perfect backdrop to allow the crystal and glass on the shelves to sparkle and shine. With a kitchen this lovely, Krista’s clients will undoubtedly find many reasons and occasions for inviting family and friends to come and enjoy this magical space. Resources Architect Matthew R. Dougherty Architect 27 Pine Street New Canaan, CT 06840 203-296-4669 mrdarchitect.com
Builder V&A Construction Stamford, CT 203-667-1707 vnaconstruction.com
Interior Design Krista Fox Interiors New Canaan, CT 06840 203-594-9161 kgfinteriors.com
Photographer Neil Landino Landino Photo Fairfield, CT 06825 landinophoto.com
East Coast Home + Design
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CLARITY HOME
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W
hen is a kitchen not a kitchen? When it’s designed Dornbracht faucet looks more like an architectural element than a to hide itself in plain sight, as it is here in this con- kitchen plumbing fixture. temporary home designed by Amy Zolin of Clarity Home Interiors. A large back pantry was designed as a second, smaller kitchen for food prep work and to accommodate the client’s love of baking. It also pro“Nothing is happenstance in good design,” says Amy. This kitchen was vides additional storage, including a custom cabinet for wine bottles. part of a new build, and the clients were open to letting Amy take risks with the interior design, stipulating only that they wanted a modern Effectively camouflaging the kitchen allows other features to take viaesthetic. This let her make bold choices in both the materials and sual prominence. The floating steel staircase reinforces the modern, color palette; steel, glass and concrete-gray hues give the space a sleek, almost industrial aesthetic, and it leads the eye upward to the beautiminimalist look and feel. ful wood ceiling and the Charles de Lisle Linden Chandelier over the dining room table. The fixture is sculptural, more of an art piece than With the kitchen being an open floor plan centered in the living space, a light fixture; made of bright brass, it adds warmth and balance to the question became how to define the space while still ensuring that the space. it seamlessly merged with the surrounding living area. “We wanted a kitchen that would almost disappear into the backdrop of the living Amy credits the extraordinary design to the collaboration between space,” explains Amy, “so we didn’t want any hardware or lines that herself, the architect and the client. “Collaboration is always a great would distract the eye to read, ‘Here is the kitchen!’” ingredient for success,” she says. Here, it has created a kitchen space with a wholly unique interpretation of contemporary style. To accomplish this, Amy chose built-in white glass cabinetry from Effiti that blends into the walls, and hid most of the typical kitchen Resources: appliances behind the cabinet doors. The induction cooktop is free of knobs and other hardware that might be distracting. The double Clarity Home oven, while visible, reads as part of the cabinetry and not as an appli- Amy Zolin ance because of Amy’s clever use of vertical white drawer pulls on the 580 Lake Avenue two large cabinets on either side, creating a visual connection with the Greenwich, CT 06830 ovens’ horizontal handles. 203.340.2468 clarityhomeinteriors.com The kitchen island is quite large; to make it vanish and keep it from capturing the eye, Amy covered the cabinetry with the same material Architect: Andrew Bartolotta, Benfield Architecture as the floor covering. The quartz countertop in concrete gray looks Designer: Amy Zolin, Clarity Home Interiors almost like a shining mirage floating above the floor. There are no Builder: Chris Phillips, Artisan Builders decorative pendants to draw attention to the island; even the arched Photographer: Chi Chi Ubina East Coast Home + Design
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SELLARS LATHROP ARCHITECTS
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ristine palettes with a focus on crisp, white colors are the key to the contemporary look and feel of this trio of kitchens designed by Sellars Lathrop Architects. The color provides a clean, sophisticated canvas upon which Ann Lathrop and Howard Sellars work their magic.
The firm believes in collaborating with clients to create the optimal kitchen floor plan that achieves the clients’ goals while fitting into the layout of the home itself. The linear configuration of one home—designed to take advantage of the home’s ocean views—presented the interesting challenge of a kitchen that was much longer than it was wide. The solution was a twin set of kitchen islands that break up the space while preserving the unobstructed view of the ocean. Another home needed a range and exhaust hood built into the kitchen’s island instead of along the perimeter because the clients wanted
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to be able to cook without turning their backs on family and guests. For Sellars Lathrop, each client’s unique and individual needs are always the focus of the new design. Open floor plans all, each of these spaces combines function with beauty— something Ann and Howard believe is essential when the kitchen is integrated with the rest of the home’s living area, instead of separated and closed off behind walls. Every aspect of the kitchen space must be visually appealing: cabinets are designed to feel more like built-in furniture, using glossy, reflective veneers or rift sawn woods, and care is taken to either hide appliances or make them blend in visually with the rest of the room. “The desired result is for the kitchen to be an integral, seamless part of the house,” says Ann. The kitchens of Europe often provide inspiration for the firm’s work. “In
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modern European kitchens, the shapes, forms, materials and even the appliances take on their own sculptural quality,” explains Ann. “It’s all about the artful arrangement and composition of cabinets, counters, tile surfaces, exhaust hoods, sinks—every element needs to be part of that composition.” The same principle is seen in the little details, like choosing smooth waterfall edges on kitchen islands, and in hardware choices that eschew larger, more prominent pulls in favor of slimmer designs or touch-latch mechanisms to maintain the clean, contemporary look. Lighting is also a critical component. The firm designs spaces to capture and reflect natural light, and uses LED lighting because of its incredible flexibility, both in terms of the light it produces and its fixtures, which can be decorative and unique or nearly invisible, depending on what works best in the space.
Sellars Lathrop Architects uses its canvas well, creating bright and airy kitchens with a minimalist, sleek aesthetic that is elegant in its simplicity. Resources: Sellars Lathrop Architects Ann Lathrop Howard Sellars 1 Kings Highway North Westport, CT 06880 203.222.0229 sellarslathrop.com
East Coast Home + Design
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CONNECTICUT STONE
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othing adds style and sophistication to a room like a beautiful piece of stone. The old adage that the fastest way to change a room is with a coat of paint is also true of stone products. Like paint, stone is most often used on the large surfaces of a room. This means that it, too, has the power to transform a space and have a tremendous effect on the tone of a room. When Tyra Dellacroce of Connecticut Stone works with clients, she recommends they choose a stone that can withstand the test of time. “Kitchen countertops and backsplashes are major investments, not something that people want to replace in a few years,” she says. “Regardless of the style a client wants, timelessness is key.” For today’s modern aesthetic, Tyra believes it’s important for the stone to reflect that sleek, utilitarian look. She looks for stones with calm, subtle patterns, and cuts that are sharp and clean, without a great deal of embellishment. Countertop edges tend to be simple, with the more ornate, decorative edges like ogee or elite no longer as popular, and backsplashes are often being continued over the entire wall. In this New York City kitchen, the Calacatta Colorado marble backsplash extends from the outside edge of the wall under the cabinetry, and the orientation of both it and the countertop is horizontal, letting its veining ripple like slow waves across the surfaces, giving the kitchen a long, spacious feel. The same marble was used in the small coffee bar area, but the layout of the space lent itself better to a vertical orientation instead, adding visual interest to the empty space behind the sink area and draw92
ing the eye upwards to the glass-doored cabinetry. Occasionally, a client elects to go for something more unconventional, and for Tyra, this installation of breathtaking Red Fire Granite remains one of her favorites. “The stone is a bold choice, with gorgeous veining,” she says. “The material waterfalls down to the floor, making the island very modern, but also like a piece of high-end furniture. It’s an exciting piece, absolutely incredible!” Visually stunning, it ties into the kitchen behind it with the use of Calacatta Gold marble on both the lower-level kitchen side of the island, as well as the perimeter countertop. The colors in the granite echo the warmth of the hardwood floor and the deep brown of the Neolith backsplash. Stone brings the natural beauty of the world outside into the home, allowing a room to transcend its practical purpose. Connecticut Stone’s expert use of stone elevates and transforms rooms into sublime spaces that invite family and guests to linger and enjoy. Resources: Connecticut Stone Tyra Dellacroce 138 Woodmont Road Milford, CT 06460 203.882.1000 connecticutstone.com
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FRONT ROW KITCHENS
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master bath has become a decadent, high-end spa experience, thanks to Matt Giardina of Front Row Kitchens.
When Matt saw the original bathroom, he realized that the potential for a beautiful, modern spa environment was already there, waiting to be brought to life. The space was large, giving him room to be creative with the design, and there was already a sauna room off the shower. Matt began by reconfiguring the entire space, creating individual areas for husband and wife by placing two vanities in separate areas of the room. He located the wife’s vanity on the exterior wall, which allowed him to add a touch of natural light and beauty to her space with two small windows in the corner. The freestanding tub becomes a graceful visual focal point, and Matt built a toilet room to keep that practical plumbing fixture out of sight from the general space. The previous bathroom had hidden the sauna behind a solid door covered in tile that blended in with the old shower wall when closed. Matt enlarged the walk-in shower and chose to highlight the sauna’s presence with a frosted glass door that enhances the spa-like atmosphere. Double doors of clear glass leading into the shower help connect the shower and sauna area to the main space. For Matt, lighting is a crucial component in the design of a room. “Usually my lighting designs include a combination of recessed ceiling lights, hanging fixtures, wall sconces, under- or interior-cabinet lights and accent lighting,” he says. “One of my favorite things is to use LED strip lights to accent a soffit or crown molding around the room.” Here, he puts the strip lighting concept to use along the molding of a shiplap feature at the top of the wall, letting it cast light upwards to create drama, accentuate the height of the room, and give the subtle impression of sunlight shining through the clouds. The same shiplap is used along the bottom half of the wall to break up the large horizontal expanses and to add texture and visual interest to the room, which has a simple, soothing tricolor palette. The two vanity backsplashes have heights that exactly match the shiplap, creating a single, unbroken visual line around the room that allows the size of the space to exist without overwhelming the eye. A woodgrain porcelain tile for the floor—which Matt also used in the upper half of the shower—adds more texture and reinforces the spa aesthetic. Transforming bathroom spaces into spas is a current trend that is quickly becoming popular. Matt’s breathtaking version is a sleek, contemporary sanctuary his clients will be sure to enjoy for years to come. Resources: Front Row Kitchens Matt Giardina 117 New Canaan Avenue Norwalk, CT 06850 203.849.0302 frontrowkitchens.com East Coast Home + Design
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HOBBS INC.
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hen admiring the rooms in a home, you can easily forget that there’s more to creating a beautiful space than planning and design—that a finished room doesn’t appear with the wave of a magic wand. It takes painstaking work by expert craftsmen to manage the project and create the physical space from the designer’s vision. It’s fascinating to listen to Scott Hobbs, co-owner of the award-winning Hobbs, Inc. company, expound on the role of the builder in the process of bringing rooms to life, and on what it takes to create stunning, sophisticated living spaces. “The builder brings reality to a project,” explains Scott. “Our job is to interpret the dream of the designer and see how it will actually work. We’re also the ones who provide the pricing and scheduling information; we’re able to identify how each specific item is affecting the total cost and overall build schedule.” The builder can help the client understand what aspect or material may be disproportionately driving the cost or creating scheduling issues in a project, allowing the client to make informed decisions about how to proceed. The builder will determine whether or not the room’s structure is able to support the design’s massive marble kitchen island. The builder knows how best to vent the kitchen exhaust fan to the outside, whether that fan is going to require makeup air to avoid creating negative pressure in the home, and where to introduce that makeup air within the system. The builder will ascertain how to modify the plans and specs to ensure the room’s lighting actually illuminates the space properly. Another area of expertise of builders that many clients don’t take advantage of is extensive hands-on experience with the materials. “The builder can point out how certain details have caused issues for clients in the past,” says Scott. “For example, some countertops do not hold up to citric acid as well as others, and certain backsplash grouts may be extremely hard to clean. This information doesn’t mean that a particular product shouldn’t be used, it simply gives the owner a better understanding of the potential long-term consequences of a particular design or material.” The modern, minimalist home aesthetic that is popular now can present unique challenges for builders because it often eliminates many of the traditional finishes that can cover up small imperfections—such as the way a crown molding can hide a small ¼-inch difference in how the ceiling framing lumber meets the edge of the wall. This means everything must be absolutely perfect in contemporary homes because there is nothing to conceal these little flaws. Builders are full collaborators with the homeowners and design team in the creation of beautiful rooms and spaces within the modern American home. Without their expertise, the design on paper would never become reality. Resources: Hobbs, Inc. Scott Hobbs 27 Grove Street New Canaan, CT 06840 203. 966.0726 hobbsinc.com East Coast Home + Design
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ACK DESIGN
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ow do you want the room to make you feel?” That’s the question on the mind of Angela Kosinski of ACK Design when she begins working with a client. As she and the client converse, she’ll find a word or phrase around which to build a design. That “feel” is the key; once she has that nailed down, the rest falls into place. Angela’s favorite part of the process is when a bathroom has been gutted and she gets her first look at the empty space. At that point, she may readjust her plan to maximize the use and functionality of the finished room. For this silvery-hued modern bathroom, Angela’s client wanted a room that felt fresh with simple, clean lines, and that desire led the design process.
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Both Angela and the client fell in love with the beautiful geometric tile, and Angela centered it to maximize its visibility. Framing it with the softer gray tile used on the outer areas of the floor visually grounds the rest of the bathroom, which seems to float around that central foundation. A freestanding bathtub was chosen to reinforce the clean, uncluttered feel the client wanted. “Built-in tubs often result in soaps and sundries sitting on the ledges and tub deck, which the client did not want,” explains Angela. So she designed a small nook near the tub that can hold these items when the tub is in use, mirroring it with a second nook at the other end of the room to maintain the symmetry of the space. The symmetry continues in the paired vanities and the two benches, which Angela covered in a furry fabric to add texture and a touch of fun to the room. An airy linen fabric for the window treatments and contemporary hardware complete the look.
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The bathroom also has a secret—a hidden entrance to a storage space. The old bathroom had a door that led to the storage area above the family room. Angela installed a mirrored push touch door, thus preserving access to the space while also maintaining the sleek, modern aesthetic in the bathroom itself.
“My goal with every project is to make the space as timeless as possible, while redesigning it for how we live today and incorporating the feel the client is after,” says Angela. Focusing on the feel of a room gives Angela the freedom to explore spaces in new and unique ways, with sublime results.
When it came to this beautiful modern kitchen, Angela latched on to the word “warmth.” The client wanted a bright, contemporary aesthetic, but not a typical white kitchen. She also wanted the kitchen to feel warm and welcoming. When Angela discovered the client was drawn to the look of walnut, she used it to achieve the desired warmth, pull the room together visually and give the eye areas to rest within the space.
Resources: ACK Design through Home Works 169 Grace Church Street Rye, NY 10580 Angela Kosinski 914.420.5010 ackdesign.net East Coast Home + Design
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PARAMOUNT STONE
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ne of the most important decisions a designer or homeowner will make when creating a new look for a room is what materials will be used on the flat surfaces of the room: the floor, walls and other horizontal surfaces, such as countertops and vanities. Because these are the largest, most noticeable expanses in a room, the materials and colors chosen for them will set the tone for the entire space. When it comes to kitchens and baths, the material choice becomes even more important, as it’s necessary consider the functional requirements of spaces where water is present and frequently used, and where daily household work is done. Damp and wet locations demand very different materials than those typically found in the living areas of the home. Thus, kitchens and bathrooms are where beautiful stone and tile products take center stage, and with the amazing variety available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the selection. This is why you want an expert like Carlo Vona, Jr. of Paramount Stone in your corner. Carlo asks clients to show him photos of rooms that inspire them and contain elements they’d like to emulate in their own homes. From there, it’s a matter of determining the client’s color and material preferences, and understanding the aesthetic they are looking for. Knowing a client’s needs in terms of cleaning and maintaining surfaces also helps Carlo decide what options to present. “Most clients have at least some idea of what they want,” Carlo says. “My job is to create a reality that matches that vision.”
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This white and black kitchen is truly stunning, with Calacatta marble countertops throughout. With several visually impressive statement pieces in the kitchen already, Carlo wanted something understated for the backsplash that wouldn’t compete for the viewer’s eye. He chose Absolute Black Trenched, a textured stone that Carlo says “feels almost like fabric,” in a soft and soothing gray that echoes the veining in the marble and blends beautifully and effortlessly with the monochrome palette. Carlo opted for bold and playful in the small powder room, with a custom-laid tile floor that is visually stunning and immediately makes one think of the mind-boggling drawings of M.C. Escher. He chose a more classical, clean look for one of the bathrooms upstairs shared by two sisters, and cleverly used white subway tile as a unifying feature between the two bathrooms. Material selections can make or break the aesthetic of a room. Carlo’s choices for these rooms reinforce and enhance their sleek, modern style, giving them a timeless, elegant appeal. Resources: Paramount Stone Carlo Vona Jr. 338 Courtland Avenue Stamford, CT 06906 203.353.9119 paramountstone.com
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KLAFFS
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ot all clients know what they want when they ’re looking for something new for their kitchen or bath. But that’s not a worry when you’ve got the expert guiding hand of Joe Passero, owner of Klaffs in Norwalk, to help you discover what you want.
since 1987, and it was depressing every time we walked in there.”
But where to start when the clients aren’t sure what they ’re seeking? For Joe, it begins with seeing the space and talking with the homeowners. “I saw the existing scenario and talked with them about what they didn’t like. It was less about the layout and more “We had no idea what we wanted,” explains one recent client. “We about the dated appearance of the fixtures,” says Joe, who hanjust knew we needed a change. The bathroom hadn’t been updated dled the project himself. Klaffs offers clients a very personal,
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collaborative experience, and has the expertise to take a project all the way from the idea stage to the finished space, supplying all the materials as well as detailed plans and specifications. This makes installation a breeze for the builder on-site. “Joe made it so easy and so much fun,” the client says about the process. “He has such beautiful things in his store. And he did everything; we found everything we wanted through him.” The bathroom’s renewal began with choosing the perfect custom tile for the floor—a subtle interlocking mosaic—which turned out to be the client’s favorite part of the room. The mosaic has the same Calacatta Gold marble seen on the wall, tub deck and shower. The marble’s warm golden veining creates a flow between the white bathroom and the earth-toned bedroom, connecting the two visually. A glass door and half-glass wall brighten the shower area by allowing in the natural light from the window, while also making the entire room feel more open. Adding solid white tops to the vanity and tub deck keeps the lines clean and simple. Joe also chose all LED lighting and a wall-hung vanity cabinet without hardware to reinforce the sleek, modern feel. Polished nickel hardware and fittings from Samuel Heath for the bathtub and shower add a luxurious, formal touch to the room without detracting from the contemporary aesthetic. Joe preserved the client’s existing personal laundry area, and by opting for an all-in-one toilet to replace the old fixture to gain space in the toilet room, he was able to enlarge the laundry area to add a small storage closet near the washer and dryer. With the room now featuring a heated floor, toilet seat and towel rack, not even the coldest New England winter can chill the warmth of this light and airy master bath. How do the clients feel about their bathroom now? “We absolutely love it; it’s just lovely.” Indeed it is. Resources: Klaffs Joe Passero, Owner 28 Washington Street South Norwalk, CT 06850 203.866.1603 klaffs.com
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hether a project is a new construction or a renovation, there are numerous moving parts and people that must come together in perfect sync—homeowners, architect, interior designer, materials suppliers, builders and subcontractors. Keeping the construction process functioning smoothly so there are no mistakes or delays takes a savvy general contractor like Wright Building Company. For Chris Wright, president of the company, it’s always about the client’s needs. His 30+ years of experience serve him and his clients well when it comes to complex renovation projects and the building of superior homes of distinction throughout the counties of Fairfield, CT, and Westchester, NY. His company has received HOBI awards for Best Custom Home and Remodeling, and a look at these stunning rooms explains why. Many clients are looking for open floor plans for their homes. While this is easily accomplished in new constructions, Chris often finds himself removing interior walls in renovation projects to achieve the same openness seen in new homes, sometimes with surprising results. Such is the case with a renovation that resulted in the home’s primary staircase now being at the rear of the kitchen. “The original floor plan had the stairs enclosed,” Chris explains, “and since we couldn’t move the stairs, we decided to open the wall to give the feeling of a more open and spacious kitchen.” Not only does it give the kitchen a unique look, the removal of the wall also creates beautiful sight lines up the stairs and across the kitchen into the dining room. The long kitchen island accentuates the latter, gently leading the eye towards the other end of the room and the sunny view through the doorway to the dining room. 104
WRIGHT BUILDING COMPANY In two other kitchens, twin kitchen islands are put to excellent use above and beyond the purely functional aspect of providing counter space and additional storage. In one, they give a long kitchen much-needed structure to keep it from feeling empty, while in the other, the two islands on the outer boundaries help define the kitchen space from the rest of the home surrounding it. Bathroom spaces can be tricky; because they tend to be smaller rooms, any small imperfections or issues are magnified as they are so easily seen in close quarters. A bold, masculine bathroom in oak brown could have been dark and uninviting, but here it comes to life thanks to the large mirror, careful light placement and precision-laid tile floor that adds light and movement to the space. An all-white bathroom becomes breathtaking in its formal simplicity; it is a bright, enchanting refuge from the busy world outside. The communication and management aspects of projects such as these can be challenging, but for Chris and his company, it’s the best part of the job. “Our favorite part of all these projects,” he says, “is working with the designers, architects and owners to create a space we can all be proud to showcase.” Resources: Wright Building Company Chris Wright 5 Myrtle Street Norwalk, CT 06855 203.227.4134 wrightbuildingcompany.com
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CORNERSTONE CONTRACTING
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he modern European aesthetic meets New England m a s t e r craftsmanship in this stunning kitchen and master bath, part of a full-house project built by Cornerstone Contracting. The project was an interesting one to work on, according to Cornerstone’s master carpenter, Mike Keenan. “The owners are European, so we actually had a long-distance relationship with them,” says Mike. “We had weekly meetings by phone, where we would keep them up-to-date on the progress.” The owners didn’t even see the rooms until the moment they arrived at the house to view the finished work. Much of the beginning stages of the design for these two rooms was done by the clients, who gave Cornerstone a very clear idea of how they wanted the finished spaces to look. They knew they wanted to bring modern European design to their home in America, and with a strong plan in place, the clients placed their trust in Cornerstone to bring that vision to life. 106
The result is sleek spaces that look as though they could have been teleported from a sophisticated home of the future. The monochrome palette combined with the silver-toned hardware in the two rooms is key to achieving this futuristic look; the black and white colors streamline space, letting the subtle textures of the materials and the smaller details in the rooms take the eye’s focus. The kitchen is Italian Scavolini, and required Cornerstone to work with the company ’s architect, who designed how the kitchen was to fit in the existing space. The kitchen materials were shipped to the home and expertly installed by Cornerstone’s craftsmen per the architect’s plans and specifications. A study in contrasts, the smooth marble and the ribbed, corrugated metal style of the cabinetry play off one another beautifully. Recessed lighting maintains the clean, simple lines, and the black accents bring out the exquisite veining in the marble. The bathroom’s floor plan is a unique open style that’s popular
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in Europe, but only now starting to find its way here to America. The palette shifts to black here, serving to highlight the magnificent Rorschach-esque bookend marble installations in the open-air shower area and next to the freestanding Antonio Lupi bathtub. “Matching marble like this is rare,” explains Mike. “Our marble supplier, Connecticut Stone, worked with us to help create this effect.” The half-wall double vanity was also conceived of by the owner and executed to perfect effect by Cornerstone, topped with a two-sided mirror with built-in LED lighting. The wiring for the lighting is left visible, reinforcing the minimalist, futuristic feel of the room. The clients were ecstatic when they saw the finished spaces, and it’s easy to see why. While the European aesthetic is the defining influence, there is clearly a touch of American style, with a modern, future-forward look that will ensure these rooms are the bright stars of the home for years to come. Resources: Cornerstone Contracting Barbara Russell Mike Keenan 301 Valley Road Cos Cob, CT 06807 203.861.4200 cornerstone-builders.com
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EVENTS
KLAFFS DESIGNER SHOWCASE On December 15th, Klaffs had their 2nd Annual Designer Showcase at the South Norwalk Location. Sponsored by Rohl, Victoria + Albert and East Coast Home + Design, guests were treated to “Cocktails & Conversations” while viewing spectacular vignette’s designed by Tori McBrien, Christopher Cintron, Pamela Stanley Dix, Caroline Kopp, Beth Schoenherr and Victoria Vandamm. 108
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East Coast Home + Design
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PROFILE
FRANK WEBB HOME OPENS NEW LOCATION IN PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY Story by Ashley Rose Marino
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or decades, Frank Webb was known for being the largest plumbing and heating distributor in the Northeast. In 1999, Frank Webb Bath Center opened its first showroom, expanding the company’s focus from behind-thescenes plumbing to bathroom fixtures. Since then, the firm took the leap and rebranded itself as Frank Webb Home, becoming the multifaceted one-stop shop that you see today. Dan Lorenz, the director of showrooms for Frank Webb Home, is a key contributor to shaping the future of the company. “Rebranding into Frank Webb Home allows us to be involved in more facets of the customer’s home,” Dan says. If the customers trust you to help them, why should they have to leave and go elsewhere to finish their project? Frank Webb Home is reacting to that question by providing more options for its dedicated customers. The company now has over a dozen showrooms offering lighting
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options, and even more displaying kitchen fixtures. “There’s a list of about 15 things you have to buy when you decide you want to remodel your bathroom,” says Dan. Frank Webb Home’s ultimate goal is to be the only place you need to stop when checking those 15 items off your list. Luckily, you’ll be able to find the majority of those items easily at Frank Webb Home. “I’d like us to be a full-fledged tile store someday as well,” Dan adds, further showing his commitment to growing the company in ways that make it easier for customers to purchase everything they need in a single place. The sales consultants in Frank Webb showrooms have specialized space-planning and design experience to assist customers in choosing products that will be a good fit for their homes. One thing that sets the firm apart is that “the owners of our company made a decision long ago to never pay any employees commission,” Dan says. This al-
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lows the consultants to stop focusing on making the sale and instead concentrate on finding the right products for the client. In 2018, Frank Webb Home will continue to look toward its future, opening six new showrooms while revamping many existing ones. Customer relaxation is a part of Frank Webb’s new showroom footprint, along with adding design rooms where consultants and customers can collaborate to make important choices in a private space, rather than on the showroom floor. “It’s hard to make a lot of decisions,” Dan says. “If people can get themselves coffee, sit down in comfy chairs and relax before making product selections, that helps the customer make better decisions.” Many of the company’s showrooms also have working displays, which show how the fixtures you purchase will actually work in your space. A family-owned company based out of Bedford, Massachusetts, Frank Webb Home has been in business for more than 150 years. The firm has nearly 40 showrooms in eight states throughout the Northeast. Frank Webb Home 180 Centennial Avenue Piscataway, NJ 08854 732.393.7555 For a list of additional locations, please go to: frankwebb.com East Coast Home + Design
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PROFILE
The Classical American House
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ee inside many of the most beautiful new homes built in the United States in the classical style. A new book from Images Publishing takes you on a tour of new houses and renovations, together with a new apartment fitout, designed by seven leading exponents of classical architecture in the United States today.
Featuring many of the top names in the industry, such as Ken Tate, John Milner, Timothy Bryant, Charles Hilton, Franck & Lohsen, Hamady Architects, Smith Architectural Group, this book is a showcase of best practice in classical design in the United States today. Edited by well-known classical architecture commentator Phillip James Dodd (The Art of Classical Detailing, An Ideal Collaboration, et al) this latest compilation volume by IMAGES reveals an enticing glimpse into the exquisite
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architectural works of innovative and skilled contemporary classicists. While remaining loyal to traditional classical design, the architectural projects featured within display a remarkable talent for versatility and adaptability within the fundamental classical language of architecture. This richly photographed book masterfully presents a number of preeminent classicists, who offer unique insight into their interpretation of the theory of classical design in their works. This compilation also highlights the collaboration between the architects’ applications of excellent detailing, the use of fine material, and exceptional craftsmanship, and how, all the while, they are creating a refined and seamless fusion with the surrounding landscape and environment. Published by Images Publishing. Distributed in the United States by ACC Distribution. In bookstores August 2017
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