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www.CARDELLO ARCHITECTS.com 203.853.2524
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The Townsend Collection by American Standard.
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 STAMFORD, CT 200 Richmond Hill Avenue
PLEASANTVILLE, NJ 755 West Delilah Road NEWBURGH, NY 600 Corporate Boulevard
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 2 | 2018
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Symmetrical Grandeur
Cardello Architects plays with perspective to evoke an illusion of size on a relatively smaller scale. Story by Emily Ballard | Photography by Dennis Carbo
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East Coast meets West Coast
This award-winning home in Parrot Cay by KTS Group redefines the meaning of “model home.” Story by Anastasia Storer | Photography by Darren Miles
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Building Character
Soudi Amini blends traditional style and modern comforts in this full penthouse renovation. Story by Emily Ballard | Photography by Neil Rashba
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Editors Letter Ask the Experts Profile
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E A S T
C O A S T
HOME+DESIGN VOLUME 15 ISSUE 2 - 2018
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
Publisher Shelley E. McCormick smccormick@eastcoasthomepublishing.com 203-545-7091 Account Managers Alessandra Flanagan Patrick Giddings Lollie Mathews Business Development John Oleynick East Coast Home + Design 8136 Garbera Drive #7203 Naples, Florida 34113 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, 8136 Gerbera Drive #7203 Naples, Florida 34113 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.
EAST COAST HOME PUBLISHING 8136 Gerbera Drive #7203 Naples, Florida 34113 EASTCOASTHOMEPUBLISHING.COM
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EDITOR’S LETTER
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or the first issue of this new year, we have introduced pecialty spaces. This the term we came up a new roundtable to ouris group of informative andwith infor those rooms that don’t fit into the usual genre teresting articles. The First Annual Kitchen Designer of the home. These rooms are cool....really cool. Roundtable. They are the spaces that not only define a home as unique, buta give you agroup littleofinsight into thedesigners personWe have brought together talented heavy-hitting alities of the homeowners themselves. 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 We so much fun putting this section together for you. Like new had generation of clients. kids in a candy store. Home theaters, wine rooms, man caves, unique offices on roundtable and on andinon. What’s not love!of South We produced thisand lively partnership withtoClarke Norwalk, where the event was held, as well as a fantastic meal following Working with provided our partners to compile this section fun as well. the discussion by Match Restaurant of Southwas Norwalk. Each talented firm was so excited to share each space with us that it made meHome realize+just how would lucky like we all are to Sean be able to do this East Coast Design to thank Clarke, Marco for a living. We all get to make people happy. We all get to take Barallon and Heather Beland of Clarke for partnering with us on thea persons for their home and makea itwonderful a reality.meal My event, thewildest talenteddreams chefs from Match for providing partners get to design it and build it and we get to share it with and all of the participants of the roundtable for taking the time to share you. their infinite knowledge of this very intricate segment of the shelter industry with our readers. We hope that you enjoy this issue as much as we do. We had a blast putting together. hope inspires toastake a lighter side We hope it you all enjoy Ithis newthis addition andyou much we all did producwhen it comes to your home and have a little fun when planning ing it for you and look forward to making this a staple in our publicayour tion. next project.
Matthew Kolk
Enjoy, Enjoy,
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MELANGE
Designer Picks ANDREA CROSS AXEL INTERIORS AXELINTERIORS.COM
Andrea’s discerning eye was honed at Christie’s where she spent the first decade of her career. AXEL, her retail shop and design studio in Norwalk, is frequented by both design enthusiasts and professionals in the field who value her ability to select pieces of enduring quality. Andrea’s recommendations for the season exemplify her promotion of finely crafted, original designs.
Never ending Glory pendant lights lasvit.com While sparkling hand-blown glass pendants can brighten interiors year-round, their transparency is particularly appealing come springtime. These elegant silhouettes, inspired by the chandeliers of the world’s great opera houses, are now available in a useful smaller size, perfect for grouping over a kitchen island, or as an alternative to table lamps, flanking a bed.
Soubreny cabinet hardware dlvdesigns.com Upgrading cabinet hardware is a perennial technique for refreshing a room. Substantial and expertly crafted pulls from Brooklyn–based DLV are available in a range of wood, resin and metal finishes. The Soubreny line is particularly elegant and wonderful to the touch, with the screw detail adding a slightly industrial note.
Cowling Collection mckinnonharris.com We entertain more in the warm months, so why not have outdoor “rooms” as finely appointed as our indoor spaces? The high performance and incomparable quality of McKinnon and Harris elevates furniture for outdoor living. The Cowling Collection, their most contemporary to date, is strikingly simple and clean-lined; the pieces will certainly also remain aesthetically relevant over time.
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Floral design lemondahlia.com Early spring, just before blooms appear in our own gardens, is the best time to treat yourself to a beautiful flower arrangement. Karen Legan’s artistry is unparalleled; most fortunate are the spring and summer brides who get to experience the full breadth of her creative talent. Ladder Shelf tightrope.nyc Pairing down your accessories to just the fewest and finest is a great spring cleaning goal. Showcase treasures that make the cut on Tightrope’s Ladder Shelf. The dramatic shape and scale (102” overall height, with custom sizing available) create a focal point, while the lightness of glass shelves and maple frame keep the focus on the objects on display.
Outdoor leather and fabrics cec-milano.com C & C Milano is not only a purveyor of luxury fabrics, they also custom fabricate cushions and bedding using fabrics from their line. Their outdoor leather is especially luxurious, yet durable; a nap on one of their tufted chaise cushions would be the perfect way to refresh during the warm months.
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Straight out of KBIS The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Orlando was a great success and it showed how technology and innovation are just as much involved in product development as their aesthetics. We present to you the most impressive outtakes from this great event.
Kallista kallista.com Inspired by the fundamentals of the De Stijl movement, the Grid faucet is a stunning representation of simple, geometric shapes and cutting-edge design. The spout’s unique outline form and discreet interior waterways are created using 3-D printing technology, a first for the KALLISTA product portfolio.
Kaza Design kazadesign.com Imagine the music of Steve Reich or Philip Glass. Creating a single tile design that can generate multiple patterns was very important to the ethos of this idea. ‘Liquid forms’ tile is aesthetically versatile. All the different patterns it generates have unique visual qualities that will give architects and interior designers a rich palette to work with.”
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and all the furnishings. A home or room that has been thoughtfully edited is a space where the design is well appointed, so that all the elements within the space have a reason and purpose for being there. And sometimes we have things just because we love them! Shelves or tabletops can be accessorized with books, family photos, collectibles and a children’s clay pot, but it can all be edited to look and feel organized and meaningful. The same goes for artwork, whether you have family photos, Picassos, a de Kooning or a combination of them all. Walls with art that are skillfully placed and layered will look and feel well executed—therefore, well edited. As designers, we are always editing. We edit plans and we edit research. We edit when we prepare to meet with our clients. We listen, take notes and inventory, all to be assembled and edited into an outline for the project. We have plans, sketches, piles of fabrics, photography, furniture cut sheets, decorative paint boards, wallpaper samples, lighting—you name it. Eventually, through the design Elica Nikola process, all Tesla this work will be edited down to be the beginning of a elica.com/US-en room, an office whole house. As part of the neworAira Cooking series, Elica—the global leader in kitchen
East Co publishi www.ea 8158 N ing inqu without mercial express
ventilation hoods—unveils Nikola Tesla as its first aspirating induction cooktop. combines the functionality of two Interior Itdesigner Grant Gibson once said,home “Theappliances room was(cooktop well edand onepiece product, eliminatinghaving the need for a range hood and ited,hood) with into every of furniture a distinct purpose and providing a clean and simple design aesthetic.
meaning.” I think that is well stated and articulates what “edited”
means inwe theuse interior design community. Edited inindustry interiorscoupled says a “At Elica, the most advanced technology in the with design to create and elegant and innovative roomItalian is styled, organized meaningful. It is aappliances,” space that issaid decoFrancesco Casoli, Elica President andglance—however, Chairman. “The new rated and well thought out at first no NikolaTesla one knows revolutionizes the kitchen space by replacing the range hood with a venjust how wellthat thought out it really room to me is a tilation system is conveniently built is. intoAn theedited induction cooktop itself.” room that has form and function. These are the rooms and homes we admire, want to spend time in, and want to live in!
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Dacor 42” Four-Door French Door Refrigerator dacor.com As one of the most versatile built-in refrigerators on the market, Dacor’s four-door French door refrigerator features an array of cuttingedge features highlighted by the FreshZone Plus compartment, which provides the flexibility to make additional freezer or refrigerator space based on consumers’ entertainment needs.
Belwith Keeler belwith.com Belwith Keeler has been making hardware for 125 years. The Vale knob was first introduced in 1953, and new finishes were introduced at KBIS to update the classic design.
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Bertazzoni Professional Series All-Gas 6-Burner 36” Range us.bertazzoni.com The all-new Professional Series All-Gas 6-Burner 36” Range sets the new performance standard in the category of counter-depth Designer ranges. Thanks to the Monocloc 19,000 BTU brass burner layout, Bertazzoni is now the category leader with a boil time of below 6 minutes for 1/2 gallon of water—11% faster than the company’s previous range platform iteration.
Fantini MilanoSlim Outdoor fantiniusa.com MilanoSlim Outdoor is an incredibly high-tech and innovative system. The showerhead features a wide front that produces a thin rainfall effect which is highly efficient as it maximizes a minimum quantity of water to generate the best result. Available in brushed stainless steel and Burma teak wood.
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ASK THE EXPERTS
Two month site prep prior to foundation
Pre-Construction Consulting and the Benefits of the Architect-Builder Collaboration with Scott Hobbs, President of Hobbs, Inc.
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he process of building a custom home is an exhilarating time for the client, but it can also be a little overwhelming with all the decisions that need to be made. Often the builder doesn’t come into the picture until after the architect has completed the plans, but there are tangible benefits to choosing the builder early and having him work in collaboration with the architect throughout the design stage. We talked with Scott Hobbs, president of the award-winning firm Hobbs, Inc., to learn more about how having the builder on the team right from the start can pay dividends for a project. What is pre-construction consulting? Bringing the builder into the design process early means the client, architect and interior designer all have access to the builder’s practical hands-on experience with different materials and finishes, as well as the builder’s wealth of knowledge about current local pricing for the many different trades and suppliers required. This is advantageous as it lets the clients learn about every aspect of the project before construction begins, helping them make important decisions about the details much earlier in the process. This in turn allows the 22
Demolition prior to permit
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Scott with stone mockup
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Stonework Mockups
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Mock up Sandstone
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builder to develop a construction schedule and order materials in advance. What services does Hobbs, Inc. provide during the design stage of a project? Hobbs, Inc. has a dedicated estimating department, and we’ve developed the most rigorous estimation service in the industry. Utilizing our extensive historical database, we thoroughly analyze the plans and incorporate bids from multiple potential subcontractors into our calculations to generate a detailed budget the client can rely on to be accurate and cost-effective. Our team understands that the design process is a time of exploration for the client. To help facilitate that, we do estimating in real time, showing the client and architect how potential options and changes to the design will affect both the budget and the construction schedule. This allows the client to make informed choices not just about the overall design of the home, but also about which materials and finishes to use, with full knowledge of how those choices are going to affect the budget and timeline of the project. Hobbs, Inc. has been building high-end custom homes for over 65 years. Our decades of experience and accumulated knowledge allow us to maximize the logistical efficiency of every build we do, thereby increasing value for the client. Our talented, expert team of professionals has a thorough process that is easily adaptable to each homeowner’s individual needs, enabling us to deliver exceptional, client-focused service on each and every project.
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Resources: Hobbs, Inc. Scott Hobbs, President 27 Grove Street New Canaan, CT 06840 203.966.0726 hobbsinc.com hobbs-care.com
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Grand Doors: The Importance of an Entryway
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ow important are the entryway and front door of someone’s home? People may not realize it, but the front door is the focal point of every home. It’s the first impression, the exclamation mark of the entry procession. It sets the mood for the rest of the house, warmly inviting people in to discover what lies beyond. Homeowners take great pride when considering how to construct their entryway, as they should. What trends are you seeing from clients in choosing doors for their homes? Contemporary and modern are wildly popular styles right now. We are seeing a lot more solid painted colors as opposed to wood-grain doors. We also have a lot of requests for iron doors—this style has made its mark on the West Coast and the South, and is finally starting to make waves on the East Coast.
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What advice do you give clients when they are considering their options? When dealing with the exterior, clients have many factors to consider. Protection of the material immediately comes to mind. We advise clients on finishes that will hold up in the face of mild to extreme weather conditions. Part of our process with the homeowner is to ask the right questions so we can guide them properly. Are we dealing with an overhang? What direction will the door be facing? Direction towards the south and the west are not optimal for wood-grain doors, because the natural material being baked in the sun all day will not last as long as entryways facing north or east. In cases of an entrance facing south or west or especially an oceanfront property, we would recommend fiber-glass or iron doors, as they withstand the tests of time and Mother Nature. These are some of the many important things we discuss and, based on the information gathered, we direct them to the door that is most suitable and preferable to the homeowner.
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Do you mostly work with clients looking to renovate, or do you also provide services to clients building a custom home? We do everything from 100-year-old brownstones in Brooklyn to new construction on Long Island. We can be found on custom build jobs, renovations, prefabrications—whatever the homeowner needs. If our clients want to enhance the value of their house or start anew, we are there to help them. How important is it for you to coordinate with builders, designers or architects in the process of new construction? It’s important for everyone to be on the same page early on, so when we are working on a custom build plan, we are side-by-side with the architect and builder to make sure everything is going appropriately. We also collaborate with interior designers, typically on the final touches of the door to confirm that the styling and coloring are feasible with the plan for the rest of the home.
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Aside from doors, what other products do you offer, and how do they align with your main product? Clients love us mostly for our wide array of exclusive doors, from majestic entry doors to elegant finishes. They also love our expansive selection of designs and finishes for quality door hardware, to further express style and attention to detail. In addition, we can provide quality iron lanterns to bring light and aura to the exterior of the client’s home. Homeowners looking for a more grandiose focal point will design a transom window in accordance with their Grand Door, to make even more of a statement. Why would a client choose Grand Doors over another company? At Grand Doors, we combine craftsmanship and original design to create some of the finest doors in the tristate area. We are a niche company focusing on high-end custom doors, and we have the largest selection found anywhere. We are custom experts ready to meet any challenge, with the in-depth knowledge to advise clients, and our team 28
works to standards of excellence in every detail, from preliminary measurements to hardware to full installation. Our customers know that every Grand Door creation is a masterpiece, crafted with pride and superlative workmanship, making it a durable yet beautiful product. We cover a hundred-mile radius that includes Brooklyn, Manhattan, Long Island, New Jersey and the Pennsylvania border. This is what we know, this is what we sell, and this is what we do best. Resources: Grand Doors Joe Klein 1372 39th Street Brooklyn, NY 11218 718.871.2200 granddoors.com
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SPECIALTY SPACES A collection of unique spaces catered to each homeowners individuality Stories by Allison Mills
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DAVENPORT CONTRACTING
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oozes warmth and elegance. Rob had to design a space that was comfortable when the lights were on, and also be the perfect environment—with no distracting reflections—for when the lights go down. “A completely black room can feel oppressive, so we built a hybrid,” explains Rob. “The back half of the room has warm wood, a deep brown carpet and classic moldings, while the front half is black to maximize perceived contrast Being a cinematographer was integral to the whole project. When you are on the screen.” The room is utterly quiet, so whenever you hear a sound, used to creating a world from scratch, building a home theater is essen- you subconsciously know it has to be coming from the movie, not from tially an extension of this role. “I’ve always dreamed of building a proper outside the theater. home theater, but it’s only just now that the technology is good enough to do it right,” says Rob. “Another motivation was to build a theater that What if there’s a “full house”? “There are 15 seats in the theater: three would properly showcase films in the manner they were meant to be seen.” rows of five seats. The front row is there to provide a frame of reference when watching a film from the back two rows,” Rob explains. “It’s Davenport Contracting in Stamford, CT, executed the actual construction not really the best place to watch. That said, we did have one important of this specialty space. “We needed a contractor who wasn’t afraid to ask screening where every seat was taken. Rick Koch, the head of Davenport questions and would be incessantly curious about solving the many issues Contracting, passed away from cancer at the end of our job. He was an that were sure to come up during building,” explains Rob, who called for extraordinary man and the main reason the theater came together so beauprecise construction techniques to achieve the performance he wanted. tifully. He desperately wanted to see a movie in the finished theater, so The need for stupendous sound quality led to the design of a floating everyone worked long hours to make that happen. At the end of April room over the garage, which enabled all the speakers and acoustic treat- 2016, we watched Gravity with him and all the people who helped build ments to be installed in the sides, rear and ceiling of the theater behind the theater. He was so proud of what his company had done, and he was fascinated to see and hear how all the work they did translated to the inacoustically transparent fabric. The room not only delivers performance on the home theater front, but credible movie-watching event we were having. It was a profoundly moving 32
pecialty spaces don’t come more special than this: when the end result is the true essence of one’s being. Rob Hahn, a cinematographer and the owner of this beautiful home theater, is in the enviable position of having created just that.
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experience that none of us will ever forget.” A real specialty space is one that never ceases to amaze on a daily basis. Rob and his family are always surprised. “This is in our house? Over our garage?” he exclaims. “We never get used to it, kind of like seeing the Grand Canyon.” Resources: Rob Hahn, Homeowner robhahn@mac.com Davenport Contracting Brian Macdonald 78 Harvard Avenue Stamford, CT 06902 203.324.6308 davenportcontracting.com
ADAMS INTERIOR DESIGN
Creating sophisticated and comfortable interiors that meet your family’s unique needs. 845 440 3135 | AIDESIGNNY.COM
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ALISBERG PARKER
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ently for a warm climate than Modern-day for a house in the mountains.” living and flexThe building itself also has a ible working significant part to play, with arrangements the exterior setting the overall have meant that tone for the interior. “While we all want our homes to do we tend to create cleaner, more more, with rooms now exmodern interiors, we create a pected to serve many differharmonious transition from ent purposes. These specialty one to the other,” says Susan. places created by Susan Alisberg at Alisberg Parker Architecture & Interior Design are beau- The client wanted a “home imbued with strong colors,” she tiful examples of this much- coveted, seamless multipurpose recalls, and the particular palette used by Susan not only meets this expectation, but affords a certain overall grace and serenity. living. The family room and home office pictured here are part of the larger home design project that Alisberg Parker did for these clients. The kitchen is very much central to any home, and the client wanted to extend this “hub.” The result was family room off the kitchen that serves as a place where the family can gather and watch TV, as well as a gracious space to entertain their friends. Both parents have their own home offices, and the featured room with the orange-backed bookshelves is the woman’s space. Not only is it functional, with plenty of file cabinets and Susan believes the location dramatically affects how her firm a hidden printer, but it also offers a lovely, bright spot to sit designs. “As architects, we consider the landscape and the and read a book or visit with others. neighboring homes,” she explains. “When laying out a room, we consider its orientation and the views. We design differ- The clever use of light makes the new rooms appear larger Susan Alisberg and Ed Parker, both architects, became partners in 2001. With her fine arts background and enthusiasm for interiors, Susan expanded the business into interior design, while Ed’s construction expertise allowed the office to develop into a design-build firm. Alisberg Parker has the unique ability to handle all aspects of designing, building and furnishing a home. The firm makes it easy for busy clients by presenting them with choices and minimizing the time spent managing the process.
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without actually adding any square footage. The splashes of bright color with key pieces of furniture ensure the overall look is modern, but with timeless appeal. It is the perfect marriage of exterior and interior. Resources: Alisberg Parker Susan Alisberg 222 Sound Beach Avenue Old Greenwich, CT 06870 203.637.8730 alisbergparker.com
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RINGS END
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reathtaking in both beauty and simplicity, this unique glass breezeway shows that even the most functional elements can be transformed into something glorious.
white structures helps to define them while adding interest with a contrasting, exciting element,” explains Chris LaVigna, principal of LaVigna Associates.
“The homeowners didn’t want a traditional breezeway connecting the garage and house, but instead required the two main structures to appear as separate elements representing a farmhouse and a barn. Thus, the dark and transparent glass structure between the two
LaVigna Associates has evolved from a construction company to a project management firm to an architectural practice for both residential and commercial projects. Building models as a child gave Chris an appreciation for form and structure, while hands-on experience drives his builder-
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friendly, efficient designs. Exposure to inspiring design over the years helped add excitement to this project. With a wealth of information and ideas available online, people today are very savvy about the latest trends and know what they want in a specialtyspace project. For the contractor, it’s then a matter of putting the client’s wishes into a cohesive whole, based on experience and a design kit of parts. Chris’ favorite sources of inspiration are natural materials, patterns
and colors, along with classic organic design. “The homeowners did not want any heavy structure visible in the glass breezeway, so we engineered a thin tubular-steel structure for minimum sight lines,” he explains. Long-span beams and structural bridging were employed to eliminate the need for intermediate vertical support. The recessed front dormer also required a long-span support beam to leave the entry hall below unobstructed. East Coast Home + Design
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Ourdoor Designer Kitchens Roundtab Melange Kitchens
of thesedum 2 yearprovides approvalyear-round beautiful process – his texture jobThe situation against has tall, thisbecause groundcover color. mid-sumChoice® selection provides an outstanding display of deep blue flowers project Location was a key part of the checklist to maximize this specialty space. Orientation Iftothe thehomeowner has a large family and frequent guests, there must Two years,pale that’s long time.”the lacquered mer yellow flowers in acomparison withquartzite its foliage,and which transithrough early fall, attracting pollinators of all types. The compact form changed. forces of nature and the local microenvironment was critical. Sunlight, wind, rain, snow, privacy, sufficient space for walkways so the cook orand multiple cooks countertops.” tions frombechartreuse in spring to shades of orange red in the have fall. of this sun-loving shrub mixes well with perennials and grasses. views, sources of noise and site access were all considered for the best outcome. 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: The success of the project was the result of excellent teamwork. Seasoned builder Paul Hertz ofdirect guests between the range and the sink, the chef will be steps 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 Hertz Construction made a difficult task look easy. Framer Chris Oberhammer did a great job around them during meal prep,” says Jennifer Howard of dancing 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 with the post and beam elements and all the house framing. Interior designer Patty Carmody andDesign and Cabinetry in Rye, NY. JWH homeowners’ lives. that attract butterflies. with In latethe summer, the bright red have some hydrangeas in your xeriscape, the panicle form is most ap- spring flowers the homeowners themselves put the house over the top with their incredible interior designThe work, 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 and architect Ryan Salvatore’s beautiful breezeway staircase design is a sculptural showpiece. 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. Breezeway and house windows are by Marvin Windows, Contemporary Studio Series. 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 Steel windows and doors are by Optimum Window, Ellenville, NY. 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, Timber frame elements were supplied by Jim Davenport of Harvest Moon Timber Frame,pliances will best suit the cooking needs. For instance, would an exthat reduce our impact on the who has struggled with overwintering lavender in New England, this important to make water-wise decisions203.414.0133 Bethlehem, CT. 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 Steel structure is by Vin Cleary of NMC Ironworks, Bridgeport, CT.Carroll Arnold Karp and Robin 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. Resources: “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 theSwitch 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 (Red The Caprice Cocktail TableWinds® by Fine Furniture features a Architect Builder Rings End and for the architect. Sometimes I can’t even break ground forblueyear decided scalloped-shaped top and curvednativar brass metal base. to bag this project.” Austin Ganim Landscape Design, LLC Grass): This Proven LaVigna Winners® begins the Construction season with Associates Hertz Pete McDonald ffdm.com to 18 months waiting for the various approval processes. If we could This concept is quite familiar to Peter Deane with Deane Rooms 320 Kings Highway Cutoff green foliage that transitions to a reddish purple in late summer. A Chris LaVigna Paulmore Hertzmoney and of 181 Westthat Avenue figure out we’d have better houses, worth Everlasting in New HOWARD LATHROP: Canaan, CT. A recent kitchen design for a family Fairfield, CT 06824 midsize grass at almost three feetRoad in height, it609 works wellTree inRidge a mixed 25 Old Wagon Hollow Road Darien, CT 06820 greater value, but because of the regulatory environment people are with five childrenPlanning brought & some specific design requests chal“I was on the Westport Zoning Commission forand 8 years. border with perennials and shrubs, as well as an accent The Capri Sling Chair Ridgefield, CT 06877 Darien, CT plant 06820in con- 203.333.2003 203.656.7524 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 203.947.4004 203.656.4900 ringsend.com 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 lva-architect.com hertzconstructiondarien.com 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
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CLOSET + STORAGE CONCEPTS
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Closets and storage can lead to the most original specialty space creations. This incredible project is the result of the combined efforts of Karen Bradbury at Closet & Storage Concepts and Betsy Ryan of Ryan Interiors.
“We’ve grown from a simple mom-and-pop operation to what has become a multitiered interior design concept,” says Betsy, giving her a family-based approach to the spaces she creates. Betsy says she is able to “follow the trend of today ’s homes while still keeping the personal feel of a space that a family inhabits.” This is the ultimate skill set when considering storage solutions, as practicality is key. There has to be a true understanding of the homeowners and their personal space: how they use each room, how many people are in the family, logistics, and whether there are any sentimental pieces they would like to incorporate in the design space. “The ability to get to know each client is inherent to the entire process,” she explains. Location can hugely impact a design. Some clients are at the beach and others in the mountains, but the one-on-one interaction and the personal pieces are what truly impact the overall design. Listening to the needs and desires of her clients is what drives Betsy.
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In this particular case, the building itself played a huge role because “this was an extremely modern home designed by Marc G. Andre Architects of Fairfield, Connecticut,” she says. “I wanted to make sure the Murphy beds I designed retained that sleek, modern feel in that functional space. The client wanted a space for guests to come, but that wasn’t going to happen on a regular basis. So while the beds are up and hidden and tucked away, we wanted to make it look like a functional storage space that would be used daily. The client did not want a guest room per se, so it was important to both of us to make multiuse of that space and retain the sleek, clean lines of that room.” The focal point for this project was working within a room that had floor-to-ceiling windows. Betsy had one wall, and one wall only, to house sleeping space, storage and shelving, so it was a very challenging space. Betsy ’s favorite feature of this particular design is how streamlined the wall is, while being completely equipped with modern amenities such as phone jacks and Internet options. Also, the fact that the beds folded up seamlessly into the wall made them look as though they had always been there naturally. The look of the entire space was wrapped up once Betsy ac-
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cessorized for the reveal— that’s when it all just came together. “And at the end of the day,” she says, “my client’s happiness was paramount to the success of the design space.” Resources: Closet & Storage Concepts Karen Bradbury 356 Ely Avenue Norwalk, CT 06854 203.957.3304 cscnorwalkct.com Ryan Interiors Betsy Ryan 203.615.8280 ryaninteriorsct.com
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STUDIO KC INTERIORS
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atie Canfield of Studio KC Interiors and Ernesto Ruiz of HomeSquare are the collaborators behind this specialty space that brings together the beautiful and the functional.
Studio KC Interiors is three years old this month. The firm’s founder, Katie Canfield, never had intentions of being a business owner until she started working in the industry and realized that in order to truly explore her vision, she needed to work independently. Studio KC Interiors is more than just an interior design firm—it flows organically into all forms of artistry and design. HomeSquare began back in 2006 as a one-man operation, and grew into a strategic partnership providing fully-fledged, technology-driven home maintenance and renovations. Through the use of proprietary technology and a user-friendly app, HomeSquare’s customers now have home maintenance services at their fingertips. Katie’s approach to design is to follow her client’s heart. There are no rules to abide by, only guidelines. Katie wants the spaces she works in to evoke a connection with whomever enters them. “I try to play devil’s advocate and look at things from a different perspective,” she says. ”Even when I love where a design is going, sometimes you end up with a completely different design that really stands out.”
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In this specialty space, the clients wanted an entire basement turned into an entertainment area. Initially, they had only a media room in mind, which then led to creating several different types of entertaining spaces in the basement: a media/ home theater with a music room, a cozy wine room and a wet bar/lounging area. After seeing several iterations of woodwork design in the media room, the homeowners settled on pilasters and beams with a large paneled wall behind the TV in the theater. Another focal point was making a showcase of the wine room. The direction of the faux-wood tile floors was changed to add interest to the small space, and two large glass doors were installed, so that the wine itself is a piece of art when viewed from the bar and lounge. The client wanted a warm and cozy palette, but Katie was also tasked with keeping the space from feeling too dark and synonymous with “basement.� The woodworking in the media room adds warmth and elegance and makes a bold architectural statement that is unique for a basement. The clever division of space makes this specialty space a resounding success. A recessed track into the beam in the ceiling and the drapery treatment creates a partition, closing off the theater to make it cozy or leaving it as open as possible. Simple and flexible, but also pulling in the idea of a traditional theater, the design helps with the acoustics, adds warmth and beautifully frames the space. Resources: Katie Canfield Studio KC Interiors 1425 Bedford Street Stamford, CT 06905 845.705.0684 studiokcinteriors.com Ernesto Ruiz HomeSquare 6 Oak Street West Greenwich, CT 06830 203.742.9955 homesqr.com
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JOSEPH MATTO ARCHITECTS
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he most spectacular projects come to fruition when there is a fusion of the best of talents. This specialty space is the perfect combination of the talent, hard work and dedication of Joseph Matto of Joseph Matto Architects and Patrick Sweeney of Patrick Construction. After once experiencing a tussle long ago, they became good friends and lifelong collaborators on many projects large and small. “When we do a project, there is a strong 44
spirit of collaboration and a sense of connection and cooperation that sometimes seems almost telepathic,” says Joseph. Although he trained as an industrial designer, interior designer and architect, Joseph considers himself mostly an architect. Not a “mannerist” or “signature architect” with a style or flourish that is quickly recognizable, he prefers his architecture to be timeless, seamless and harmonious with
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a sense of self-organization, clarity and radiance that can be seen in this specialty space. It’s only after living in one of Joseph’s buildings and appreciating its subtleties, day-in and day-out, that a client realizes there is something distinctive and unique to the design that can only be attributed to Joseph’s particular skills and talents.
derstands architects’ concerns. He knows that good design isn’t merely a case of making the wall straight, but understanding all the nuances of composition, style, detailing and aesthetic integration. As a building takes shape and progresses, Patrick will often make suggestions that enhance the design or improve it in a way that is not offensive or arrogant.
Unlike many builders, Patrick Sweeney has terrific design sense and un-
Although this house was already a “specialty” project in that it had been East Coast Home + Design
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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 Kriesfather, Sean an Clarke converted from old chicken coop by the homeowner’s Alexander Doherty Design skiing Brookfield, Marco Barallon vacations the love for Vermont andWfarmhouses were providWe arrive and at Antichita Trois, wherebarns I’m introduced toFairfield Alberto AnfoAlexander Doherty 71 85th Street #4A Manchester, Haven Heather ing the inspiration its nextaway—indeed, life. A chance encounter would mean, dillo. Once again Beland I’mforwhisked my feet barely touch the Upper West Side New York, NYNew 10024 New London, Stamford 64Gypset Sathe Main Street however, that “whole barn” would somehow be attached and integrated Travel ground!—to interior of a somber palazzo. Of course, the ground 322 Columbus Avenue 212.390.1572 Acrylic bench with Mongolian Fur Seat Hatford CT assouline.com into existing house, with Joseph’s allowing it to We neatly insert worlds-away.com floor isNorwalk, reserved for06854 acqua alta, anddesign thus leftWest vacant. enter an New the York, NY 10023 alexanderdohertydesign.com 203.777.3637 203.838.9385 itself into a small corner had previously been and the are galley kitchen. elevator that is small eventhat by European standards brought to 212.799.0900 tileamerica.com clarkeliving.com So half cozya -flight Worlds Away- yet interesting in main house gives Themost barn spacious being offset from the the rooms ofvertically his magnificent palazzo. Alberto guides Antonino Buzzetta any room the feelingBuzzetta ofhisantreasure old barntrove built of intoantique the hillside, and also creates us through paintings on reverse glass; Antonino Antonino Buzzetta Design fasciTrish Herson Interiors Connecticut Stone spacesofinside, including views of the upper timbers up-close and anating collection lions (the symbol of Venice); ancient boxes, some as Flatiron 39 W 14th Street #504 PUZZLE CHANDELIER Trish Herson Tara Dellacrowe through the trusses toofthe areas below. 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 Woodmont Road ofNew course, chandeliers (this is Venice, all). I’ve always been fond of sheets of solid layered into after a dynamic composition. York, NY 10010 917.971.0571 trishhersoninteriors.com Milford, CTbrass 06460 The clients wanted an open, free-flowing house thatbetween would interior take adThe focal point of this specialty space is the interplay The Architectural Modernist feel isand warmed up by the luminous of Venetian Murano chandeliers, now I’m convinced that antique 212.334.8330 antoninobuzzetta.com Design by Sara Baldwin for New Ravenna, The Aurelia fromLathrop 203.882.1000 vantage of a dramatic waterside location on a cove. Sellars metal. your Puzzle Chandelier above a which circular table, like and the expressed structure of the truss, is elegant, isspaces theHang way to go. Delft Collection is a modern American interpretation of a cenThymewere and Place Designbeauticonnecticutstone.com Architects and Landscape fortunate colour Nixon, or in fabulous foyer. ful to old behold andArtemis a surprise toasee inArchitects the middle of stylish oletomariCarmina Roth Carmina Roth turies familiar craft, . Shown here is a hand cut jewel glass Sharon Sherman laborate on this classic modern home. jonathanadler.com time Rowayton, CT. The windows and skylights let theWhite east and south David Rachtian is a Venetian ofLolite, partial Persian descent on his father’s 32 East Putnam Roth Interiors mosia shown inAvenue Lapis, Lazuli, Absolute and Deane Inc. 385 Clinton Avenue erie’s team decided to update them toMica, anCarmiña off-white finish. Doing so sunlight filter down timbers into theTabriz, spacesKashan, below. side. At his shop we and find through antique the Persian rugs from Greenwich, CT 06830 203.987.5961 Blue Spinel. Peter Deane Wyckoff, NJ 07481 not only helped lighten the rooms but also offered the enduring look While Howard Lathrop of Sellars Lathrop provided the overall dePhoto credit: the Chuan Bing. imagesbychuan.com On certain effect iswhich very cathedral-like, yetbuild casualaand natural. Isfahan anddays, China, around one could easily room. This 203.422.0990 carminarothinteriors.com jamieshop.com 1267 East Main Street 201.847.1400 that the couple wasthe seeking. Plus, the color helped provide a sense of sign direction for house and the site, he knew it was important Ibiza Lounge Collection As much interest as 06902 possible has been created vertically; ascending the thoughtfully arranged and packed antique store also features glassStamford, CT thymeandplacedesign.com uniformity within the home. from Artemis, to bring in Tara M. Vincenta a firm known for itshas exrestorationhardware.com unique staircase tucked southeast intersection, a visitor ware, silverware, jewelryinto and the important, sought-after Jewish pieces. 203.327.7008 Connie Cooper Connie Cooper pertise in coastal plants and sensitive ecological locations. Howard grays, whites, silver, “really makesOther the artthe sense ofdeaneinc.com climbing the rafters which to some secret place. focal What catches mytaupes eyeinto areand paperweights from the 1950s, decorated 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. points areCT the06880 see-through stone fireplace,58the classic rotated Vermont with mythological creatures. Westport, High Point Road just as with welcoming to their kids as to their adult guests. house the exterior.” window at theRow topKitchens of the barn gable, and the interior lighting that Front 203.221.3117 Westport, CTcable 06880 White was also integrated into sleeker modern Matt Garrdina takes advantage of the timber Orseola and Chiara walk me purlins. 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 andmyself narrow, and needed Barbara Laughton pleasantly surprised to find in familiar surroundings. Then I Caleb Anderson conniecooperdesigns.com INTERIOR DESIGNER planes and solids that create the design aesthetic,” he says. TheNH, palbe small and modern. Lara believes whites areWalpole, important 117 New Avenue The barn frame provided by circle, Ward Timber Frames, of realize we haveCanaan made a large and that they have given me a lesson D & D Building Valerie Grant ette of hardscape materials is limited to washed river rock, narrow togetting use inaround smaller rooms andofdark that have no winNorwalk, CT 06850 and the ingenuity of Bruce Ward Brucerooms WardAnderson and Sons, Alstead, NH in Venice, too. Suite 1519 Caleb Valerie Grant Interiors concrete pavers, Ipe wood deck tiles and native stone outcropping. dows or don’t get much light. In this case, Lara “didn’t 203.849.0302 (603.835.2313) made this specialty spaces project a resoundingwant suc979 Third Avenue Drake / Anderson 14 Friarfrontrowkitchens.com Tuckwalls Circle Retaining are natural concrete matching the pavers. A native to clutter the artwork,” she to says, “soa cess. Leaving Venice islong like empty parting wall with with a lover; I daydream linger New York, NY 10022 67 Irving Place, 12th Floor Summit, NJ 07901adjacent stone wall runs to thepatterned road and atsilver-white the parking area. instead I chose delicately wallpaper little longer beforeareturning 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 Resources: in bringing something back home—a comfort beautifulinterest.” lion, box, 212.754.3099 valeriegrantinteriors.com TaraMatto provided aHoward clean, landscape that keeps fits the architecture and Jennifer The white, silver andsimple grayLuigi color scheme small room Joseph Architects chandelier, a commissioned Bevilacqua fabric the 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. Joseph Matto cial upholstery and/or Finds these add sparkle to 160 Route 17 North Rye, NY 10580 The Jenning Brutalist Ribbon was to be simple and architectural, in agreement that the landscape 72 Bridge Street interiors and wardrobe, lifting one out of the sea of sameness. Paramus, NJ 07652 Michael Herold 914.967.6020 Table will dazzle thethefor particularly the entrance to home, thewith use aoftint clipped Lara likes toatpick a whiteincolor wallwith paint of Shelton, CTLamp 06484 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 475.282.4183 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.” room. She then uses ayearn brighter whiteAnd on itthe window trim, joemattoarchitects.com as 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 Sweeney Construction 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, 27058-002 from white fabrics on upholstered items, for obvious practiPatrick Sweeney The 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 this the team used a circular variety of ornamental grasses and perennials, cal reasons. The only upholstery fabric 51 Circle Drive 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 in among she likes to use is a faux-leather vinyl fabric, which is great Greenwich, CTklaffs.com 06830 “Surf’s up, I love these fabrics for settings. + 49 (0) 171 386 2213 Before period andfresh contemporary 203.550.2264 the native shoreline vegetation and enhance the natural cove setting. at resisting stains and dirt. spring, they remind me of the water” 203.515.1956 christopherguy.com antiquesdiva.com patrickmele.com Zanzibar Ticking Woven Cotton Rug
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AMY AIDINIS HIRSCH
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my Aidinis Hirsch of Amy Aidinis Hirsch Interiors has been working in the industry close to 20 years, and over that time her confidence in her craft has grown tremendously. She works with a fantastic group of women who are extremely collaborative, effective problem-solvers and resourceful in managing projects. “Without them, the overall vision could not be achieved,” says Amy. “They honestly make my world go round.”
Amy’s safe haven and gives her a sense of clarity.
With so many factors involved in creating a beautiful and well-functioning interior, Amy’s best tool in approaching a design project is to listen. “Communication and any visuals from the client—whether it’s something they love or elements they dislike—are paramount,” she says. “Most of the time it’s what a client dislikes that gives me a better sense of where the design will begin.” All inspiration for Amy starts from nature. She was fortunate to have grown up near the water, and later in life spent time in the Adirondacks, hiking through the woods. The beach is
This space was the second phase of design. The team initially designed the main spaces of the residence, which have a more coastal feeling, lighter tones and a feminine approach. The residence is located in what Amy likes to describe as “the marsh,” and has a sensational view of the Long Island Sound. When asked to design this space, she realized “it was all about the Texan”: a man cave that would be more masculine, have darker tones and richer fabrics, and could withstand the best parties in town!
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For this addition to an existing residence, the clients wanted to maximize their floor area ratio and revamp the exterior pool area. Initially, the house was designed by Chris Pagliaro of Pagliaro Bartels Sajda Architects, who returned to execute the addition. The exterior endured a major overhaul, and the “man cave” was to be an extension. The team also designed a theater on the second floor.
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Interacting with the exterior pool, the space needed to be extremely durable. A lounge area for viewing the TV was a must for the client, as was the large bar for gatherings. The room can take a tremendous amount of wear and tear: the mohair on the sofa is a workhorse, and the floor only gets better with time, as the quartz is virtually indestructible. Amy is beyond thrilled with the chevron cognac leather floor, reclaimed coral board from Montana, and the irresistible lunar quartz bar top, with its very complicated detailing and delicate edge. “I can’t get enough of the chiseled edge on the bar!” she exclaims. “It’s one of my proudest moments in design.” Cabinetry Hardware: TurnStyle Designs Barstools: Studio Dunn: Architect’s stool with walnut seat and chestnut leather backrest Club Chair: Mitchell Gold: Dean II Chair with stainless steel Club Chair fabric: Loro Piana Halkin Stripe in graphite Sofa: Vanguard Furniture through Wakefield Design Center. Custom Oakwood sectional Sofa Fabric: Romo/Mark Alexander Plush metal in Pullman Resources: Amy Aidinis Hirsch Amy Aidinis Hirsch Interiors 77 North Water Street Greenwich, CT 06830 203.661.1266 amyhirsch.com
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E A S T
C O A S T
HOME+DESIGN
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SYMMETRICAL GRANDEUR Cardello Architects plays with perspective to evoke an illusion of size on a relatively smaller scale. Story by Emily Ballard | Photography by Dennis Carbo
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The grand symmetrical design is complemented with columns, an arched entryway and large windows that embrace luxury mixed with comfort.
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The uneven elevation of the lot was addressed with stone terracing and an expansive covered porch.
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hen the homeowners of this riverside residential home in Greenwich, CT, approached Cardello Architects to help with the design, they envisioned a family home that matched the style and vernacular of the area, but with unique details that would fit their needs. With site limitations and elevation challenges, the team of architects created a symmetrical home that greets guests with style and finesse, and offers comfort beyond the mahogany front door. Robert Cardello, the company ’s founder, graduated from Tulane University with a Master’s Degree in Architecture. His path was clear to him from the start, and after graduating college and getting some hands-on experience with a few local firms, he wanted to branch out on his own. In 1998 Robert took the plunge and opened his own practice. He describes this leap of faith as courageous, given that he began this endeavor the very same month that he bought his first house and had his first child. The business flourished, and six years later, David LaPierra joined him as a partner, bringing an architecture degree and expertise in engineering and construction. The team, along with Rachelle Roll as project manager, designs custom new construction homes and renovations primarily for residential use. It is considered a full-service
architecture firm, overseeing the design process from consultation, to development, to bidding, to construction. The team’s collaborative approach ensures that the expectations of its clients are fully realized, with its creative integrity expressed in the high-quality work it delivers. “We try to take our time with the whole process and follow the traditional path that an architect takes, where we are actively involved in every aspect of the project,” explains Robert. Curbside Appeal This property rests in a beautiful area by the water, surrounded by picturesque houses in a residential neighborhood. The client and architects agreed on a design that kept with the vernacular of the area, with elements of cedar, natural stone, New England stone veneer and a more traditional shingle-style aesthetic. “The design kind of revolved around the house having a strong, majestic street presence, without having a massive buildable footprint,” David says. The home is unique, says Robert, in that it has streets running on either side, and therefore has double frontage: essentially two front yards and no backyard. The initial concept presented to the homeowner peaked his interest. He was attracted to the custom features that Cardello Architects utilize on their homes, but had concerns it would appear to be a smaller home. It was important to him that the residence had a East Coast Home + Design
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The spiral stairway, situated in one of the symmetrical tower elements, sheds light on the contrasting white and darker wood tones.
feeling of scale on a street lined with large houses. “The approach to the house is supposed to evoke a grand appearance, and once you get inside the house, it becomes more friendly and easy to interact with,” Dave says. “The scale and size of the rooms are very manageable and comfortable.” To achieve the client’s wishes, the team used the technique of symmetry. “It has some of the more whimsical details that you would see in a shingle-style house, but it is done as a very symmetrical house, which is suggestive of a very formal design,” Robert explains. He says they created an interesting blend by incorporating an informal language of architecture to be paired with the symmetrical design. Rachelle adds, “Architecture should not dominate its landscape, but respond to it. So our goal was to create a relatively large house that in no way ‘felt’ large.” Some of the materials the client was drawn to were the stone and different textures of shingle, the curved inset shingles on the gables, and the eyebrow window. The architects were familiar with many of these elements from their work on other projects. “The mix of materials and colors play off each other, so that the bold, black windows pop against the white trim, but then the yellow cedar roofing naturally grays over time to match the shingle Maibec siding,” ex-
plains Rachelle. “It lets the textures of those materials really create dimension.” Unconventional Floor Plan A common design concept that many homeowners and builders have adopted is the open floor plan, with space to flow from room to room. While this homeowner wanted to capture certain elements of this trend, he leaned toward a more compartmentalized layout. “He wanted the best of both worlds,” says David. “He wanted an open floor plan for his everyday space, meaning the kitchen to family room and dining areas, but he also wanted some private destinationtype rooms, like a library and wine room.” Robert describes this design as an “anti-center hall colonial.” The architects combined the living and dining area toward the back of the house, creating one bigger and more formal room with a den at the end of it. As you circulate around to the front and the right wing of the house, the more casual kitchen and family room serve as a comfortable and functional area of the home. This layout creates a more L-shaped plan. “When you take the center hall out of the house, it opens up the ability to have an open plan with spaces that sort of borrow from one another,” Robert explains, “because even though it feels like a big house, it really is not in relative terms.” East Coast Home + Design
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This juxtaposition between open and traditional carried over into the finishes and fixtures of the design. Although the client leaned more toward a traditional plan, he also appreciated a more modern and transitional material palette. David describes unique materials, such as riffs on oak stained in a driftwood-type color, a kitchen island with a waterfall edge, and a custom stainless-steel hood. “This is the new trend for us—classic exterior with clean and open floor plans,” says Rachelle. “A ship-lapped stair tower anchors the circulation spaces, and a large kitchen opens up to a vaulted family room.” The master bathroom coincided with the symmetrical theme, with a freestanding soaking tub flanked by two vanities with black and gray zebra tile on the floor and walls, and varying styles of glass enclosures. These are a few of the elements that blend with the more traditional style of the home, resulting in a cohesive and bright home design. Unique Challenges As a new construction home, the building site presented some unique challenges for the architects. Zoning and floor area ratio (FAR) regulations limited the total floor area and square footage of the design. This is why it was so important to the homeowner that the house conveyed a feeling of magnitude and scale. The designers met this challenge with particular attention to the outdoor living spaces. Since this area did not count toward the FAR, the design included a plethora of covered porches. Additionally, a large finished basement was created, adding to the perceived scale the homeowners were looking for.
The L-shaped floor plan winds from the kitchen to a more formal living and dining area.
The road on the entry side of the home was 20 feet higher than the road on the back side, therefore it was important to effectively terrace the property in relation to the landscape, a large undertaking for the designers. “Trying to create some privacy there was a challenge because the elevation change from the road to the back, and the road to the front, was so extreme,” David East Coast Home + Design
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The kitchen was built smaller in size, but with streamlined functionality and modern touches such as a waterfall edge island and custom hood.
explains. “We did that by using the covered porch and the terraces that followed the topography down.” The large porch succeeded in making the house appear bigger than its actual size, and created the perfect place for entertaining by the fireplace, fully taking advantage of outdoor living and sidestepping the FAR limitations. A Lasting Impression David refers to the entryway as the “handshake of the house.” As 64
guests arrive in the driveway, they are met with elegant symmetry. The swooping roofline and the columns with stone piers lead to a rich wooden door resting beneath an arched barreled ceiling. The balcony above adds to the feeling of scale. These touches produce an approachable yet sophisticated welcome. “The fact that it is incredibly symmetrical is a strong part of this house, and I think that plays into the fact that it feels like the architecture has some strength to it, some grounding to it,” David says. “It is not rambling; it is strategic and symmetrical.”
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The interior of the house offers warmth and refinement. An abundance of windows creates a light and airy atmosphere. The color palette is neutral, with wood floors throughout, and an impressive spiral staircase provides additional light and access to the fully finished lower level. David explains that the team’s approach to architectural design is all-encompassing. While Cardello trusts the interior designer for paint colors, fabrics, drapery and furniture, his firm provides input on tile selection, hardware selection and plumbing fixtures.
For 20 years, Cardello Architects has been designing luxury homes for their clients. The details and creativity of their work is what sets them apart as one of the leading architecture firms in the country. As Robert reflects on this project, he appreciates the obstacles they overcame to position the home perfectly on the lot to conjure a noble and calming presence. “I hate when I force myself into such strong symmetry, but there are houses that are just perfectly symmetrical, and this was one of them,” Robert says. “To me, there is something very pretty about that. It is recognizable, and it creates interesting architecture.” East Coast Home + Design
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The outdoor living area increased space for relaxation and entertaining while keeping within square footage building limitations.
Resources: Cardello Architects Robert Cardello David LaPierre Rachelle Roll 97 Washington Street Norwalk, CT 06854 203.853.2524 cardelloarchitects.com Builder Peerless Construction 7 Lockwood Drive Old Greenwich, CT 06870 203.273.9394 peerlessconstruction.net Tile Supply & Design Porcelanosa USA 1063 E. Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 06878 203.698.7618 porcelanosa-usa.com Kitchen Cabinets Custom Furniture and Design, LLC 601 Bantam Road Litchfield, CT 06759 860.567.3519 customfurnitureanddesign.com Evolution Wood Floors Beacon Falls, CT 203.526.4408 Quality Stairs, Inc. 70 Logan Street Bridgeport, CT 06607 203.367.8390 qualitystairsinc.com
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WEST COAST MEETS EAST COAST This award-winning home in Parrot Cay by KTS Group redefines the meaning of “model home.” Story by Anastasia Storer | Photography by Darren Miles
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Perfectly placed exterior lighting does more than just provide functional light; it adds a beautiful glowing accent to the home after sundown.
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The Newport’s grand front entrance, with the study just off to the right. The hallway leading to the guest bedrooms and three-quarter bath is to the left; a small powder room is also here, at the end of the hallway. The look is elegant and contemporary, with clean, simple lines and a soft, warm, neutral palette.
From the kitchen, the homeowner can look out over the pool. The outdoor kitchen is just beyond the dining area, easily accessible when the kitchen’s glass walls are opened up to create a seamless indoor-outdoor space for entertaining guests.
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A large marble-topped island offers seating for a quick coffee or breakfast, and also has additional storage space for the kitchen.
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hat comes to mind when you hear the words “model home?” It’s likely your impressions are not favorable. Model homes often have the reputation for being bland and uninteresting, perhaps described as “boxlike” and “cookie cutout.” Not so the Newport, the winner of two Southeast Building Conference Aurora awards and three CBIA Sand Dollar awards. This sublime contemporary home designed by Scott Kish II, principal of the full-service design and build firm KTS Group, is anything but bland, and will change your mind about what a model home can be. A Family Tradition You might say that building and construction are in Scott’s blood; his parents owned a construction business and built their own custom home when he was a child. “Given that,” says Scott, “it was inevitable that I’d end up in construction somehow.” When Scott was in the fourth grade, his grandfather taught him how to draw, and as a young man he began to learn more about architecture and home design from working with his father on job sites. “I started studying architecture from my drafting professor in the ninth grade,” says Scott. “He took me under his wing and encouraged me to apply to architecture school right out of high school.” By the time Scott was a junior, he was his professor’s teaching assistant and already competing in collegelevel architecture contests. He started his first business, deck building, right out of high
school. That quickly expanded into a framing company, and he did small construction jobs throughout his college years. A college internship brought him to Florida and “it went from there,” he says. “I had my general contracting license, and I’d worked in every construction trade while growing up. So since I had the education and experience in architecture, it just made sense to expand my business to design.” Today, Scott and his firm focus on architectural design and building project management, but he still retains that depth and breadth of knowledge about building materials and the building process. This gives him a distinct advantage in his design work. “We have very close relationships with our trades,” Scott says. “We look to them to tell us about new items on the market so we can always be innovative and using new materials.” Waterfront Lifestyle The design edge that Scott has from his intimate knowledge of building materials and how they work can be seen in this incredible, unique home that takes advantage of the home’s spectacular location in south Naples, Florida. The home was created for the Parrot Cay neighborhood in the exclusive Naples Reserve community, and is actually one of eight models Scott and his team developed for the neighborhood. Nestled inside the Picayune Strand State Forest, the secluded Naples Reserve community boasts resort-style amenities and 22 lakes within its 688 acres, including the 125-acre lake that is East Coast Home + Design
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The elegant study is just off the front entrance, with views of the front yard. It’s a perfect spot to work from home or sit and read a book away from the hustle and bustle of the main living area.
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the hub of the community. Home sites are located on a series of interconnected islands; the master plan ensures that every home has gorgeous views of sparkling lake waters or the state forest. The community was also designed around the concept of sustainable living, which is becoming increasingly important to today ’s environmentally conscious and ecofriendly homebuyers. Newport: West Coast Meets East Coast The community ’s master plan called for homes with a coastal design and a “casually awesome” feel. Scott’s answer to this was to bring the California coastal style to the design of the Newport. Other builders were creating Nantucket-inspired designs for the community, but “ we didn’t want to design homes that were exactly like what the other builders were doing,” explains Scott. “We went with a contemporary, transitional concept. We enjoy pushing the envelope in new and interesting ways, and we prefer modern designs to more traditional styles.” Given the firm’s penchant for more modern designs, choosing to take inspiration from the clean and simple lines of the West Coast was natural—but also reflective of the fact that the contemporary aesthetic is gaining in popularity with Naples clients looking for custom homes. Scott is careful to point out that while many treat modern and contemporary aesthetics as the same, the two are in fact different. “When people talk about the modern aesthetic, they are almost always talking about contemporary. Modern is very brutal: it’s structure, and that’s it,” he explains. “Contemporary is much softer, and is warm and livable. You don’t feel like you’re sitting in an empty warehouse.” The developer loved the Newport’s design, and it’s easy to see why. The front façade, however, is deceptive at first glance—which was done on purpose. “For street appearance, we did our best to ‘blend in’ with the rest of the neighborhood, but we East Coast Home + Design
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The home’s two additional bedrooms are joined by a small hallway and a three-quarter bath between, turning the area into a small guest suite perfect for when relatives with children come to visit.
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made the deliberate choice to do something different,” says Scott. “We like being unique, from both a design standpoint and a quality standpoint.” Quintessentially South Florida Openness and light are the two primary themes of this home. Windows are found in every room, letting in as much of Florida’s beautiful sunshine as possible, and the spectacular glass walls at the back of the home set this home apart from those offered by other builders in the neighborhood. The rear exterior walls of the great room, kitchen and master bedroom can all be opened, effectively turning the three rooms into “covered” spaces that seamlessly flow
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The master bedroom’s exterior wall is given the same treatment as the great room and kitchen: a full-length, glass-paneled wall that can be opened up whenever the homeowners want to enjoy the feeling of being outside in the open air, right from the comfort of their bed.
into the lanai and pool area in the backyard, allowing the interior and exterior of the home to become one incredible, breathtaking space. This innovative and spectacular design feature is not seen in any other house in the area, and it perfectly captures the spirit of the South Florida lifestyle, where residents spend as much time outdoors as possible. Upon entering the home for the first time, a visitor is likely to do more than one double take while trying to determine whether there are, in fact, any walls at all. “I wanted everything to be indoors and outdoors at every moment, so we made the entire back side of the house open to the pool,” explains Scott. “We didn’t do a lot of covered patios and porches; instead, we created 76
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glass walls that can open up almost completely.” Scott’s expert knowledge of building materials allowed him to create this truly stunning design, while ensuring the home still has the strong envelope and protections required to meet the area’s hurricane impact codes. When it came to the initial design phase of the Newport, Scott started with the idea of being able to see the entire home while standing at the kitchen sink. “That is where I envisioned myself,” he says. The sink is set into the kitchen’s large island so that one faces out when standing there—and indeed has sightlines that encompass the entirety of the great room almost to the entryway. From there the sightline sweeps outward to take in the lanai
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and pool area—with a glimpse of the master bedroom on the other side of the home—to the outdoor kitchen, before coming back inside to the home’s dining area. Of course, in this home, “inside” is a relative term; when the kitchen walls are open, the indoor and outdoor kitchen and dining areas become one grand space that is perfect for parties and entertaining. The kitchen may have the best sightlines, but the great room is the true heart of the home. It acts as the central hub and access point, and it also provides some separation for the master suite from the kitchen and guest bedrooms, giving the suite extra privacy and seclusion from the rest of the home. Another nice touch to the architectural design is the way the guest bedrooms
and bath are also given their own separation from the main living areas, again creating places of sanctuary within the home when guests want more solitude. The interior design work enhances the contemporary aesthetic, with clean, simple lines and a warm, neutral palette that is reflective of Scott’s desire for a California coastal style. This is no doubt due to the fact that Scott brought in the interior designer right at the beginning of the project, even as he was designing the floor plan. “We like to begin working with the interior designer as early in the process as possible, and it was absolutely mandatory for this project since we were aiming for something truly spectacular,” he says. “We felt this was an opportunity to East Coast Home + Design
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The home’s great room is stunning: the ceiling’s backlit recesses create rectangles of light that add a lovely visual accent to the space, while also leading the gaze towards the back lanai and pool area through the incredible glass wall, which can be fully opened up to the backyard.
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really showcase our expertise, and we wanted this home to stand as an example of what we’re capable of achieving.” As an integral part of the team, the interior designer knows and understands Scott’s vision for the home right from the start, which is reflected in every aspect of the design. Echoes of the beach can be found throughout the home, with every detail fashioned to amplify and enhance the West Coast look and feel. The primary colors are creams and beiges, immediately calling to mind the colors of a sandy beach. Textured walls, patterned drapes and variegated tiles add visual interest and depth to rooms. Look closer, and you’ll find the colors of sea and sky in a pair of glass lamps and the playful animal print chairs in the dining area. Much of the artwork in the home has hints of blue as well, and in the bathrooms, the long rectangular windows act as perfect frames for the beautiful azure Florida sky. KTS Group’s Newport model home is sleek in its West Coastinspired design, with a soothing, casual elegance that is both beautiful and inviting. Its innovative features and clever architectural design make it the perfect example of what can be done by a true master of architecture to transcend the very idea of “model home” design. Resources: Scott Kish II KTS Group 2430 Vanderbilt Beach Road No. 382 Naples, FL 34109 239.963.6763 ktsgrp.com Incredible view from the wood-covered platform just off the master bedroom of the amazing open design of the home. The exterior walls of the kitchen, great room and master bedroom are specially designed glass panels that open to the house’s backyard lanai. The exterior fireplace provides a cozy backdrop for those relaxing in the pool-level spa, and directly across the pool is the covered outdoor kitchen, ideal for grilling and entertaining.
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BUILDING CHARACTER Soudi Amini blends traditional style and modern comforts in this full penthouse renovation. Story by Emily Ballard | Photography by Neil Rashba
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Repositioning the fireplace improved the flow of the space and created a symmetrical and warm environment.
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hen clients come to Soudi Amini Design for architectural or interior design services, they are cultivating a relationship that is built on collaboration and trust. Soudi Amini, founder of her eponymous company, offers comprehensive design every step of the way. The owners of this waterfront penthouse had worked with Soudi on their previous home, so it was no surprise that they came to her once again for a full renovation and design of their newly purchased residence. The location was perfect and the view breathtaking, but it needed Soudi’s intricate touch to bring it to life. Striving to Be Fearless “Getting into design was not something where I woke up and said, ‘I want to become an interior designer,’ says Soudi, “but at 13 years old, I knew that is what I wanted to do.” Soudi grew up in Iran and came to the U.S. to go to college. She studied architecture and interior design, and had plans of returning home after graduating. The political unrest of her country prevented her from returning, however, and circumstances forced her to remain in America and build her life here. With an undergraduate degree from New York Institute of Technology, and a graduate degree in architecture and interior design from City College of New York, she began working for different architecture firms, putting East Coast Home + Design
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her education and passion to work and learning the industry. Soudi’s design experience spans over 25 years, but for the past decade she has owned and operated her independent architecture firm, which she describes as “a small boutique firm.” Being an immigrant has presented many challenges for Soudi, and although she often feels misunderstood because of her accent, her designs speak clearly. 86
Her creativity and design style reveal the influences of her childhood. Remembering the effect that ancient palaces, detailed tile work and Persian art had on her ambition to pursue her design dreams, Soudi recognizes how this has helped shape her aesthetic. She is proud of her heritage, and her road to success can be attributed to her unique perspective and the journey that brought her there. This rich cultural background has led her to forge her own path. “My practice and my work show that I don’t just
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Soudi incorporated signature pieces from her client’s private collection, and seamlessly mixed them into her design.
follow the trends; I basically follow my client’s desires,” Soudi explains. “Everybody has different feelings and tastes, and I don’t force things. I tell clients, ‘I am your driver and will take you places you want to go and make you safe and sound.’” She does this by offering a full-service design studio. Each project is as unique as her personality and designs, and she approaches the process
with great attention to detail. This starts from consultation, to planning and development, to final execution, providing support every step of the way. Soudi presents each concept to her clients with their wishes and budget in mind. Emphasizing that she never wants to force her vision on anyone, she strives for an authentic process and does not shy away from a East Coast Home + Design
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The indoor areas highlight the amazing view, framed by a simple but unexpected archway.
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challenge. She recognizes that each project is different and unique in its own way. Her goal is to fearlessly deliver her designs to her clients by blending her story with theirs. When she first finished her architecture degree, Soudi was attracted to minimalistic design, but the more she studied interior design and the more projects she worked on, the more she found herself gravitating towards layers and details. This led to a deeper perspective and design aesthetic that has evolved over time, and continues to develop. “The market right now is very simple and being defined as minimalistic, and mid-century is everywhere,” Soudi says. “Mid-century is good, and traditional is good, but I mix them without fear. I create things the way I think it works. They don’t have to be in a line.” Room With a View Soudi’s clients purchased this 3,500-square-foot penthouse condominium with the hope of creating an oceanfront oasis. With spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and exclusive amenities, they wanted a home that would reflect their lifestyle. To achieve this, they would need to basically renovate and redo every square inch. This is where Soudi’s expertise came in. In typical fashion, she researched what was most important to her client. The homeowner’s taste leaned toward more traditional, while Soudi urged her to consider some contemporary concepts. They were able to meet in the middle. “I had to bring in a feel of transitional while working with her pieces to make her feel comfortable, but still have that airy, beachy feel to it,” says Soudi. Some of the original pieces the client declared as must-haves were an English dining table from her old house and a picture of her great-great-grandmother, painted by an English artist. These were precious to her, and Soudi was able to incorporate them seamlessly into the design to showcase their originality and blend with the more contemporary elements of the home. Soudi prides herself on creating custom designs, and this penthouse was no exception. As project manager, interior designer and architectural designer on this project, she ensured that every tiny detail was customized to her client’s needs and wants. The makeover included custom kitchen cabinets, a wall system in the study, a guest bedroom, a walk-in closet, a master bathroom with luxurious custom cabinetry, custom-designed built-in cabinets in the dining room, a new coffered ceiling in the living room, a redesigned fireplace, and new flooring. “The job of the architect is to make it look seamless and perfect,” explains Soudi. “While the process may be complicated to get there, the end result blends the client’s wants with the designer’s aesthetic.” For this project, Soudi’s focus was on the architectural details. She avoided any drastic changes or elements, but created a space that would evoke comfort and still be minimal and not too crowded in terms of architecture and details. . The Process As with any project, there were challenges and bumps in the road, but Soudi took them in stride. One of the difficulties with renovation projects, specifically in an already existing condominium structure, is the limited opportunity for layout alterations. “It was an exclusive building, but it was built kind of cookie-cutter style,” Soudi says. “The location was absolutely wonderful, but there was no character.” She added details to every corner, modifying the space to create an open floor plan with a distinct personality. Her design incorporated construction of a new fireplace with a more centered location, adding to a better flow and ambience. The custom cabinetry East Coast Home + Design
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The master bedroom and bath were constructed to embrace the homeowners with comfort and luxury.
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was quite the undertaking, with efforts to maintain symmetry and balance while working around permanent ductwork that could not be moved. Soudi explains that the kitchen area appears simple, but the transformation was extremely complicated to produce all the specifications for her design and to meet the client’s needs. Yet her fearless design intuition prevailed, and she was able to make it work. A neutral and calming palette complement the environment, and detailed touches and custom lighting breathe life into the home. Pops of color and artwork excite the senses and blend old world with new. Intricate tile creates a luxurious shine leading out to the wraparound balcony, meeting the iridescent water views. WallcoverEast Coast Home + Design
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ings and patterns add depth and texture. Perhaps most importantly, a functional space emerges that accomplishes the desires of the homeowner with style and elegance. For Soudi, it all starts with the client. “When someone believes in you, it works and is magical, and you can collaborate,” she says. That epitomizes the relationship she has with these homeowners. She deliberately picked every detail to resonate with the clients, so at the end of the day they were wowed by the result. “The first thing in my mind is to create a space that is comfortable and works with the life and style of the client,” she says. “You go on vacation to feel good, but I want my clients to have that feeling when they come home and walk through the door.” This home certainly oozes relaxation. The warm entryway, open spaces and pristine finishes offer a sense of refinement and ease. The sweeping views are the perfect backdrop for entertaining or just kicking up your feet. What was once stiff and generic now has a life of its own. It’s functional, it’s whimsical, it’s a Soudi Amini original design. One advantage that Soudi feels her company offers is the personal touch. She has kept her practice intimate. “I am in charge of clients from beginning to end. I do architecture, I do additions, I do alterations,” she says with pride. “My background is in architecture, so I am basically a onestop shop for clients. I take on architecture projects and follow through to the last detail of the pillows.” Soudi is passionate about her experience. What is important for her is connecting with her work and her clients. And when she succeeds in this, she empowers herself— and her clients. Resources: Soudi Amini Design Soudi Amini Stamford, CT 203.536.4290 soudiaminidesign.com The wraparound balcony is the perfect place to take in the view or entertain guests.
Builder Clayton Buchanan 217 Center Street, Suite 4 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 904.624.7817 East Coast Home + Design
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PROFILE
Bel Mondo has a New Home!
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Photography by Kristen Jensen
eidi Thrun is not new to the worlds of interior design, art and creating beautiful lifestyles for others. The Australian designer was raised by an artist father and a mother who owned her own high-end fashion boutique for more than 40 years. Growing up in a household where creative ideas and artful designs were always in progress, Heidi knew by the time she was 13 that she would turn her passion for design into her life’s work. Upon entering Heidi’s shop, Bel Mondo, in Westport, CT, you’re instantly aware that you’re in a magical place. Heidi has curated a lifestyle shop so stunning, so visually appealing and so welcoming that you simply want to stay all day. Her positive energy and joyful approach to helping her clients is palpable. She radiates happiness, and it shows in the furniture, jewelry and homewares she has hand-selected to grace her store. Each item is thoughtfully chosen, and the vignettes throughout the shop are so naturally appealing that you will want to take everything home with you. Heidi has a natural gift for interior design, and her trained eye was enhanced by her artistic upbringing. Combining her passion for clean lines with the soothing colors reminiscent of Australia, she has given us a true treasure shop right here in our own backyard. Whether you are looking for full interior design services, home consultations, an update to your 96
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existing space or a gift purchase, Bel Mondo offers everything you could hope for. Heidi listens to and cares about her clients; she has that rare ability to envision a design and bring it to life, making the experience fun. The goods Heidi brings into her shop are unique, tasteful and yet simple in their beauty. You won’t find anything fussy here at Bel Mondo; instead you’ll encounter organic items that you won’t see anywhere else. With items curated from around the world, Heidi manages to combine items that “speak” to each individual in their own way. No two projects ever look the same. “Each project reflects the personality of my clients and their lifestyle,” she says. “This is about people loving their homes—not me telling them what they should have or love.” As well as being a self-made businesswoman, Heidi is also a wife and mother. So it’s likely that when visiting Bel Mondo, you’ll meet a family member lending a hand, including Scott, her husband. And, while you’re there, don’t forget to ask for Digby, the family’s Old English/Australian sheepdog, who is as much at home in the shop as you’ll be. Bel Mondo is conveniently located at 993 Post Road East, directly across from the Starbucks drive-thru. With ample parking, joyful window displays and interiors that are as unique and natural as Heidi, Bel Mondo is an experience not to be missed. Enjoy!
www.eastcoasthomepublishing.com
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