East Coast Home + Design Nov / Dec 2015 by East Coast Home Publishing

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HOME+DESIGN NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

ARCHITECTURAL INSPIRATIONS 2015 Annual Architecture Issue

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EAST

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HOME+DESIGN NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

ISSUE 77

FEATURES

38 Double

Happiness

Cormac Byrne and his team at Jones Byrne Margeotes Partners work to create a joyful space that celebrates a blending of cultures.

By Jennifer Jackson - Outlaw

Adventures in Architecture Our Areas Finest Architects share with us how their travels influence their design

New York State of Mind Nature and modern design come together when the architectural team at Austin Patterson Disston creates a unique getaway within the wetlands.

By Jennifer Jackson - Outlaw

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HOME+DESIGN

DEPARTMENTS

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

ARCHITECTURAL INSPIRATIONS

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Editors Letter Kitchen Profile Arts & Antiques

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Melange In the Field Hidden Treasures

2015 Annual Architecture Issue

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E A S T

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HOME+DESIGN NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

ISSUE 77

Editor-in-Chief Matthew J. Kolk mattkolk@me.com 203-820-1092 Managing Editor James Eagen Contributing Writers Tracy Dwyer, Lisa Gant, Susan Heller, Lollie Mathews, Jennifer Jackson-Outlaw, Sarah Robertaon, 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 shelley_mccormick@yahoo.com 203-545-7091 Account Managers Lisa Dearborn Patrick Giddings Lollie Mathews Business Development Randi K. Lehrman, Esq. Marketing & Sales Advisor to the Gold Coast East Coast Home + Design 111 Forest Avenue, Fairfield, CT 06824 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, 111 Forest Avenue, Fairfield, CT 06824 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 111 FOREST AVENUE FAIRFIELD, CT 06824 EASTCOASTHOMEPUBLISHING.COM

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EDITOR’S LETTER

rchitects are a peculiar sort. They are very left-side-of -the-brain, and honestly, that’s why I dig them. The good ones look at the world a little differently then the rest of us.

They have a different responsibility then most of us and the best ones take that very seriously. They cultivate, they analyze. There is a deliberate nature to their profession. They truly shape the landscape, in some cases, for THOUSANDS of years as evidenced in some of the influences shown in these pages. The basic necessities of life are: Food, Water, Shelter, Fire and of course, Air. Architects throughout our history have taken the “shelter” aspect and added touches of their individual cultures. History is not marked by water, fire and air. It is not memorialized by food, time is marked by shelter.

Matthew Kolk Editor-in-Chief mattkolk@me.com

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Melange

Trendspotting Highpoint 2015 with Alexis Varbero and Anna Nowak

KELLY WERSTLER LIGHTING FROM VISUAL COMFORT

CLASSIC, CLEAN TRADITIONAL Benson club chair and Halling secretary...Century Furniture… So happy to see the thomas o’brien collection back! One of the original interior designers who segwayed into furniture design he brings an updated perspective to traditional sillouhettes.

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JOHN RICHARD Reverse hand painted applications on glass and mirror John Richard Hand painted details have been a mainstay in furniture design for centuries. The new technique of painted on the reverse of mirror and glass combines artwork with furniture design.

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EJ VICTOR For the chair (left)â&#x20AC;Ś softer upholstery options where the entire arm and legs are upholstered. Allowing fabric to be the main story told. For the consoleâ&#x20AC;Ś asain influence with modern edge.

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shi for len ext Sco to you ah tha roo to rar Lu des int We lead Ho for wh you ery tha Mi the I th how tio tra

Story by Lisa Gant

JEWEL EMBELLISHED LIGHTING EMPORIUM HOME AGATE BURST Not a new trend but one that is here to stay! Oraganic materials such as agate and rock crystal give light a whole new look. Light refracts in the most incredible way!

COCO CABINET Shines by C.H.O Ebony Oak with Brushed Brass Inlay, Brushed Brass Plated Base and Acrylic with Polished Brass Detail Door Pulls

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shingle style facades on these projects because people want that comfort exterior that feels like home. But as architects, how are we challenging ourselves to translate the more modern interior to a different exterior, whatever that is? Scott Hobbs: People look at modern houses and think, it’s going to leak like a sieve, this is a nightmare, but that is no longer true. If you’re in New England, you’re designing for a snow load, and you have a heck of a flat roof, you’ve also got a heck of an infrastructure there that you don’t need most of the time. Whereas, if you have a pitched roof, you can shed the load, distribute it. So as the products continue to develop perhaps we’ll see more of a shift toward more contemporary and modern structures. Lucien Vita: We are pleased to find that clients who love modern design are feeling emboldened by the growing trend toward modern interiors, and in fact are looking for a fully modern exterior as well. We believe that the acceptance of our passion for modern interiors is leading to a growing confidence and acceptance of modern exteriors. Howard Lathrop: People want energy efficient houses, they don’t ask for contemporary or colonial, they want them energy efficient. So when you go through what it takes to make an energy efficient house, you end up with a contemporary vernacular on the outside and evLOVERS eryone wants contemporarySECRET on the inside, so I think it’s technology Secret Lovers is characterized by beautiful, artistic that’s driving a lot of this. mosaic and precious silk velvet. An original element Michael Black: go the opposite say I from don’tother thinkprodthe trend is that I’ll distinguishes Secretand Lovers there. I thinkucts we’rein fooling ourselves if we think we’re seeing trend. the market is the use of platinum golden aROBERT JAMES I think we’releaf talking themosaic difference style and form. It’s about artistic (frombetween Sicis Murano Collection), I love when hardware becomes the focal pointinclude of the design. Even simple shapes and finishes Today’s pantry accessories covering the ofofeach ofown thethe twoMillennial chairs. how we use spaces, the trend generatake onback aislifecoming theirwith when used in interesting convenient pull-out shelves, racks scale and and combined with unexpected materials. Before sicis.com tion and going to explode and change Forget Artistthat’s Julia Contacessi bins foreverything. placing cans andabout other foods Chuck Hilton traditional, contemporary, it’s going to change the entire house. withinWe’re easy reach.

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VELVETY SOFT RAIN INSPIRED CRUSHED VELVET PILLOW in White, Charcoal & Fuschsai lionspaw.co

BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED ITALIAN LEATHER METALLIC DESK SET lionspaw.co 18

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Lucian Vita

Michael Smith

Foster Lyons: I’m a contractor so I’m going to do whatever the design professional tells me, but designers actually have some influence on what the client ends up with. So, are design professionals on average pushing a more contemporary idea or a classical one? Susan Ailsberg: I don’t think it’s one thing or the other. I think everyone is doing it, I think it’s a change. Peter Cadoux: I’m kind of intrigued by all the responses because everybody in the room is saying pretty much the same thing. What I’m seeing is clients that don’t want wasted space and technology is not such a horrible thing. I haven’t really heard a contradictory thing except maybe the dining room component of it and there is a happy medium there. I do believe there is still a gathering area that SILVER METALLIC wants to be larger than just BRANCH the breakfast table but doesn’t want to GLASS BASE be ostracized to the LAMP front ofWITH the house where no one is going to use lionspaw.co it, it can be used more if it’s in a location in an open plan.

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Kitchen Profile

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Integral Renovations Projects Story by Lollie Mathews

RP has been in the kitchen and bath residential design world for more than 20 years, with a team that shares in their clients’ and designers’ enthusiasm for their projects. The firm recently partnered with Rye Ridge Tile and moved into its store in Port Chester, NY, making a visit to the showroom a one-stop shopping experience. IRP is well versed in Italian kitchens, whether traditional or modern. Indeed, its main portfolio is Italian and “Made in Italy.” When designing or providing guidance for a traditional kitchen, IRP combines old-age crafting techniques with present-day luxury items.

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“We have an Italian portfolio of products such as kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, faucets, walk-in closets, sinks for kitchens and leather tile that can be used in walls and floors,” says Federico Martin, IRP founder and design consultant. The Italian lines it carries include Aster Cucine, Milldue, Zucchetti and PLH Italias. It also offers other well-known, worldly lines, such as Alphenberg, Visser Closets and Mila International, a manufacturer of kitchen sinks that can be flush mounted, giving a totally different look to the countertop. “IRP ’s concept was always to be more of a boutique than a showroom, to have one brand per product and to be loyal to each supplier,” explains Martin. The showroom is set to become one of the largest in the area, with very exclusive product lines made in Italy. The lines are not costly, however, because IRP imports directly from Italy, avoiding the middleman and extra costs. As always, the IRP staff is there every step of the way, providing help and guidance to make the design process seamless. And now that the firm has partnered with Rye Ridge Tile, its new location is the perfect spot to get what you need for your home. Resource Integral Renovations Projects 520 North Main Street Port Chester, NY 10573 917.912.6830 irpkitchensny.com

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In the Field

Stamford Waterside Design District

JD Staron Showroom

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Schwartz Design Showroom

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ucked away in Stamford, CT, is a bustling street full of current and soon-to-be mainstays of the home design world. It is referred to as the Stamford Waterside Design District, and, as Jeff Goldblum from SWC Office Furniture, one of the owners of these buildings, explains, “It is a collaborative branding that is taking place in an up-and-coming neighborhood that is a destination for architects and designers.” Goldblum’s family-owned Office Furniture Store, which is on the same street as the design district, has been in its current location for more than 25 years. When the store first moved in, the neighborhood was an industrial area, but now it is truly a mecca for decorators and novices who appreciate home design—right in Connecticut’s backyard. The area seems to fit into a new trend within this business, one that enables decorators to limit their travels to New York City because they have all the necessary resources nearby. This is very appealing, as it gives designers and architects more time to work with multiple customers, as they don’t have to make that trip to New York City anymore. Stark Carpets, originally in Norwalk, was looking for a 20,000+-square-foot space for their showroom/store. Priscilla Cronin, showroom manager, noted that in the company’s quest, “We looked at a few places in Norwalk and a couple in Stamford. While viewing these buildings in Stamford, the question came up of where were Kravet and other businesses that have showrooms in the area?” Steven Stark and other Stark employees happened to be pulling into the parking lot of Mark Inc., a 25-year-old company

Before

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Stark Showroom

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that works with the trade and is famous for creating its own patterns with beautiful colors. The staff members spoke with Mark about the area’s traffic flow. “During this conversation,” Cronin explained, “Steven asked who the landlord is, and if Mark knew whether he had any large buildings in the area for lease. One thing led to another, and we made contact with Alex and Jeff Goldblum.” As Stark is in the trade business and is developing the Stark Home brand, the owners felt this area would be a better fit than Norwalk for the direction of the company. Dedar Fabrics is another new player on the waterfront scene, and is on the higher end of the decorative textile industry, as it also carries Hermès. Dedar’s Crans Baldwin notes, “Dedar is famous for original designs, original colors, incredible quality and dedication to the design client. It is costly more than expensive, and often the line designers use to start a project.” Stamford’s design district, Crans adds, “reminds me of a national trend away from design centers and towards regional access. St. Louis, Austin, New Orleans, Tampa, Baltimore, etc. all have created areas like this—why not Stamford?”

Dedar

Another new neighbor in the area is Schwartz Design Showroom from New Jersey, a to-thetrade home furniture, rug, lighting and decorative accessories showroom. “I had been looking to open a second location for quite some time,” explains Alexis Varbero of Schwartz. “About three years ago, I began to develop a relationship with a few designers from Westchester. They began their push to bring a fresh point of view to the Westchester/Connecticut market.” Celebrating its 70th anniversary in November, Schwartz has built its company on honesty, integrity and customer service. As Varbero points out, “Our unique position of being trade-only, with no in-house designers, allows us to focus on interior designers and how best to support them as they build their businesses.” A showroom that has been one of the anchors at the waterfront is J.D. Staron. It was originally based in New Canaan, CT, and moved to Stamford nine years ago. “We are famous for exclusively serving the discerning interior design community,” says Judith Block from J.D. Staron Rugs, “and providing its members with original designs that range from reproductions of exquisite antique carpets to edgy, contemporary weaves.” Company designers Jakub Staron and Richard Zolt travel the world and part-

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Kravet

ner with weavers and suppliers to bring designers amazingly unique broadloom, carpets and rugs. “Design professionals know what they are looking for,” Block continues, “and at J.D. Staron, we partner with our clients to meet their specific requirements, commit to their vision and help make their dreams a reality. “ Proximity to the Waterfront Design District was a key consideration for J.D. Staron, because the company knew that the architectural and interior design communities were visiting and utilizing this fantastic source on a regular basis. The location is also key because it is close to two major highways and the train station, and it is easily accessible for designers in Westchester and Fairfield counties, and other designers in and around New York City. “Many loyal design clients from New York City visit our showroom,” says Block. Another popular tenant on the waterfront is Kravet Home Furnishings, which wanted to be a source for local designers. As James Botelho, showroom manager from Kravet, explains, “There were already 28

several workrooms and trade resources in the area, and Kravet felt this location was a great way for the company to conveniently service the many designers in Connecticut and Westchester County.” Kravet, Inc. is one of the industry leaders in to-the-trade home furnishings. This fifth-generation family business is committed to innovation, which has helped the company transform from a small fabric house to a global leader, representing brands from all over the world. Alexis Varbero from Schwartz perfectly sums up the appeal of the waterfront location: “The Goldblums are wholeheartedly committed not just to their tenants, but to the development of the Stamford Waterside Design District. Being J. D. Staron’s neighbor is a dream, and having Dedar Fabrics, wonderful upholsterers, marble fabricators, Stark and Kravet all in one area makes this an amazing, one-stop resource for any interior designer.” The showrooms along the street have a unity that is contributing to Stamford’s urban renewal and the exciting revival of this beautiful city.

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Arts & Antiques

Venetian Shopping

Secrets Revealed

Story by Noelle Newell | Photographs by Jose Manuel Alorda

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o experience Venice is to fall head over heels in love. It is no surprise that I had a touch of vertigo while I was there. I was instantly in awe of this very special place, where green waterways reign and the surroundings are breathtaking.

I was taking a tour with The Antiques Diva, Europe’s largest antiques touring company, which provides an insider’s view of shopping and the opportunity to meet with Venetian artisans and antique dealers. This magnificent tour and VIP pass would take me to visit Luigi Bevilacqua’s hand-loom weaving mill in Santa Croce; the palazzo of Alberto Anfodillo, the charming antique dealer and owner of Antichita Trois in San Marco; and David Rachtian of Houshang Rachtian, where east meets west in Cannaregio. The tour is a love affair with the art of shopping, steeped in history, tradition and rarefied beauty, and a safe haven from decluttering fanatics. It is a place where a veteran collector can happily indulge or a new collector can be born, where one finds exceptional taste and value in antiques and more for the home. Immediately upon arrival I take a ride on a vaporetto, and then walk through a maze of streets in the haze of heat, sun and people, taken in by the beautiful Venetian Gothic architecture. The tour starts when I meet two delightful people, my guides Chiara and Orseola, who are also antique dealers. I instantly like these two very knowledgeable

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and interesting women. Chiara has returned to Venice after living in Berlin; Orseola is from an old Venetian family and has taken over her mother’s antique business. (Eventually, both will add vintage clothing and accessories to their offerings). We meet at Santa Sophia traghetto (gondola stop), head across to the market and walk quickly through the maze of narrow streets in Santa Croce. Here we enter the factory of Luigi Bevilacqua, one of Europe’s most ancient weaving mills. The mill is a must-see, not only for the textile-passionate, but also for the computer hardware engineer and other technophiles. After all, the loom is a precursor of the computer, truly a marvel that shows human ingenuity at its best. At the mill I am lost in the visual complexity of the looms, taken by the colorful silk threads ready for weaving, impressed by weaver’s labor of love, and dazzled by the several thousand patterns of fabric choices to choose from. Long ago, children would start to apprentice at age 12 and work there until they retired. Times have changed, however, and we meet with Gloria D’Este, one of only five weavers left. It is an honor and privilege to meet someone so talented and devoted to her craft, as I have a great appreciation for those who keep tradition alive to benefit humanity. The mill is not a place to indulge in instant gratification. Here one must be patient, as about 30 inches is the maximum length that can be woven in a day.

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In the Fie

Throughout his travels, Robshaw’s favorite textiles are those that showBevilacqua’s the imperfection is theofsource beingof New York interior designers’ favorite faux handmade. “When I need to hire an artisan to help, I pick the old printers,” tiger velvet. he explains. Besides“Their handling commissions for restoration and new hands are shaky and their eyesight is poor, so the pattern comes out homes slightlyhere, off. Ifashion want todesigners feel frequently collaborate with Luigi Bevithat human touch.” Some of the patterns in his Duralee collection, inspired lacqua. The by block mill printing, also has a store where one can find beautiful things, reflect this handmade feel. such as bags and pillows. I have my heart set on a Burcio small handbag “Bizantine Lions,” made of hand-loom velvet in bright pink. The Duralee Designer: John Robshaw II collection is divided into three distinct color books— peacock/graphite, alizarin/cinnabar, and chambray/cobalt—which bothWe depart headfrom out the and door compleand I find myself standing on a little dock. All ment Robshaw’s signature earth tones. those doors out to the Grand Canal serve a purpose—they lead to the places where boats pull up. (Some folks even have garages.) Soon we are The chambray/cobalt book features patterns of varying shades of blue whisked mixedaway withbysplashes taxi, andofit’s a water taxi—how much fun is that! I duck celadon for a calming, yet energetic feel. The patterns and textures in my thishead bookinto varythe from taxismall and then out the other side, standing to enjoy the prints to larger, Ikat-inspired designs. The alizarin/cinnabar series combines view as Venice a warm goesblend by inofthe breeze. From Santa Croce to San Marco we bold patterns of coral and cayenne, paired with soft, neutral linens. Finally, go, my theinner exciting childpeacock/ singing. I enthusiastically take in everything Chiara graphite book features aqua and navy on a stone-gray base with surprising and Orseola pops share of coral. withThe me as we zip up the picture-perfect Grand Canal. textiles in this series are designed in such a way that the colors flow effortlessly I enjoy this together, fleetingcreating experience, and we are soon out, and, almost dreama bold yet approachable narrative for any home. like, are shuttled through a labyrinth of small streets full of shops. The Duralee Designer: John Robshaw II collection can be used for a wide Orseola assortment pauses in offront interior of a large vitrine packed with antique and vintage designs, including upholstery, curtains, accent pieces and more. The design Asian jewelry. of the fabrics, This is while the Claudia Shop, which has been here since 1967, vibrant, is surprisingly versatile and will complement a variety of aesthetics. the first inBoth towntraditional to sell such wares. Across from Claudia’s is a similar and modern homes can benefit from the narrative of global exploration store that calledisLuna. told through Chiara points out some beautiful paintings at a shop Robshaw’s designs. The collection features many instances of his unique calledblock-printed Antichita Marciana, textile and then we make a quick stop at Bacaro Da aspects, solids, small prints and coordinating chenille. It is an evolutionFiore of Robshaw’s for a glasstraditional of Prosecco. As a part of the tour, my guides not only neutral color palate, and includes pops of color that can complement any point design out the narrative. notable antique and specialty stores, but they also tell me about artists, fashion designers and good restaurants—incredibly helpThe “Antiques Diva” Toma Clark Haines The chambray/cobalt series This new collection is an expansion of Robshaw’s very popular first partnership ful so I don’twith end the up atcomtourist places. The Antiques Diva also assists you

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with purchases and shipping, and can even suggest accommodations, if needed. We arrive at Antichita Trois, where I’m introduced to Alberto Anfodillo. Once again I’m whisked away—indeed, my feet barely touch the Gypset Travelof a somber palazzo. Of course, the ground ground!—to the interior assouline.com floor is reserved for acqua alta, and thus left vacant. We enter an elevator that is small even by European standards and are brought to the most spacious rooms of his magnificent palazzo. Alberto guides us through his treasure trove of antique paintings on reverse glass; a collection of lions (the symbol of Venice); ancient boxes, some as PUZZLE CHANDELIER beautiful on the inside as the outside; furniture; paintings; glass; and, Inspired by a house of cards, our Puzzle Chandelier is made ofsheets course,ofchandeliers (this is Venice, all). I’ve always been fond of solid brass layered into after a dynamic composition. The Modernist warmed by the luminous of Architectural Venetian Murano chandeliers, now I’mup convinced that Design by Sara Baldwin forfeel Newisand Ravenna, The Aurelia fromantique metal. your Chandelier above a circularoftable, is theHang way to go.isPuzzle Delft Collection a modern American interpretation a cen-like

our Nixon, or in a here fabulous turies old familiar craft, . Shown is a foyer. hand cut jewel glass jonathanadler.com David a Venetian partialMica, Persian descentWhite on hisand father’s mosia Rachtian shown inisLapis, Lazuli,ofLolite, Absolute side. At his shop we find antique Persian rugs from Tabriz, Kashan, Blue Spinel. Isfahan and China, around which one could easily build a room. This jamieshop.com Collection thoughtfully arranged and packed antiqueIbiza storeLounge also features glassrestorationhardware.com ware, silverware, jewelry and important, sought-after Jewish pieces.

What catches my eye are paperweights from the 1950s, decorated with mythological creatures. Orseola and Chiara walk me back to where the tour began, and I am pleasantly surprised to find myself in familiar surroundings. Then I realize we have made a large circle, and they have given me a lesson in getting around Venice, too. Leaving Venice is like parting with a lover; I daydream to linger a little longer before returning to reality. Visitors can at least can take comfort in bringing something back home—a beautiful lion, box, chandelier, a commissioned Luigi Bevilacqua fabric for that very special upholstery and/or unique bag. Finds like these add sparkle to The Jenning Brutalist Ribbon interiors and wardrobe, lifting one out of the sea of sameness.

Table Lamp will dazzle in the modern home with striking ilVenice is a bewitching city that I can’t wait to get back to as soon lumination, simple geometric as possible. It makes me yearn for more. And it makes me wonder, designs and bold metal done Where will The Antiques Diva take me to travel and shop next? BIZET TABLE in a gold leaf finish. Azincdoor.com stunning hand-wrought base is topped The Antiques Diva &with Co circular tempered glass. Distinctively Toma Clark Haines individual and suitable for a range of + 49 (0) 171 386 2213 period and contemporary settings. Before christopherguy.com antiquesdiva.com Zanzibar Ticking Woven Cotton Rug dashandalbert.annieselke.com

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DOUBLE HAPPINESS

Cormac Byrne and his team at Jones Byrne Margeotes Partners work to create a joyful space that celebrates a blending of cultures. Story by Jennifer Jackson-Outlaw Photography by Neil Landino

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t was the opportunity to build their dream home that first led the couple to the architectural team of Jones Byrne Margeotes Partners.

“The clients were initially referred to us by a local builder in Greenwich,” explained Cormac Byrne, JBMP principal. “They were a young, energetic couple with a dog that they adored.” The homeowners were looking for a firm willing to design a unique house, one that combined their love of French-influenced design on the exteriors with the couple’s distinct cultural backgrounds (Chinese and Austrian) once inside. “Their desire was really for a French Country home aesthetic, but with a more formal floor plan,” stated Byrne. “Having worked on several homes of this genre over the years, we set about designing a stately residence that was balanced with a largely symmetrical front façade.”

Petit à Petit, l’oiseau fait son nid

–French proverb meaning “little by little, the bird builds its nest” Because the wife was well versed in the nuances of French architecture, she became intimately involved with all aspects of production. She chose the masonry for the exterior façade, being sure to add steeply pitched cedar roofs and curved sweeps at the eaves. She also selected the stone material as well as the site and orientation of the stones. Byrne and his team installed large French casement windows on the second floor. The uniquely arched structures were elevated past the roof line, creating some interestingly shaped window openings in the process. Finally, they used cast stone surrounding the front door. Doing so adds a touch of formality to the home’s masonry work while hinting at the more formal blueprint just beyond the front door. Upon entering the house, Byrne’s team continued the use of archways in the millwork and interior doors. Every entry has large double-arched glass to give the three-story home a truly open flow. The design for the kitchen and breakfast rooms is purposely made to be intimate in size, with large windows opening to the rear yard. The area has access to the large stone terrace, which spans the rear of the house and overlooks the gardens. Byrne also installed a raised fireplace in the kitchen, adding warmth and coziness to the space. The spacious family room is designed with large glass doors and windows to welcome in light, along with custom trim and exquisite hand-carved mantles to bring a East Coast Home + Design

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The vibrant Schumacher Chiang Mai Dragon wallpaper livens up the living room-offering a perfect contrast to the muted furnishings.

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One of the most prominent nods to the family’s cultural heritage is the Nepalese hand-knotted wool and silk carpet adorned with “double happiness” symbols. In Chinese culture, the symbol is equated with prosperity and family.

sense of elegance to the room. For added effect, the JBMP team also included detailed wood coffering in the ceiling, and a custom-made wood mantle. As the home was being planned out, the team also made sure to update the space with cutting-edge smart home technologies. From electronic shades to Lutron lighting, the house is fully automated to provide simple convenience with a touch of a button. 44

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One generation plants the trees, and another gets the shade –Chinese proverb

During the construction, one of the biggest challenges was to limit damage to the environment. Looking to be proactive, the homeowners brought in Dave Kramer with Rutherford Associates, landscape architects, to help maintain the spectacular wetlands area that surrounded the estate.

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“One of the things we love most about our home is the several acres of beautiful nature preserve where it is located,” the wife said with a smile. “It is very tree dense, very cozy and welcoming. So we took extreme measures to preserve it, even going as far as planting indigenous vegetation in the surrounding areas.”

The couple’s careful attention to detail also extends to the elegant serenity patio just steps below the residence. The space’s rounded design harkens back to the symbolism of the perfect circle in Chinese culture, representing unity, while the manicured shrubbery assures all who enjoy the enclosure a closer connection to nature. East Coast Home + Design

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The team also added a gravel driveway as well as a small parking court in front of the house, which is lower than the approaching street. This adds to the architecture and blends the house in well with the property, rather than having it loom over the street.

Der Teufel steckt im Detail

–German saying meaning “the devil is in the details” Once the home was completed, the family took on the daunting task of decorating it. Because they wanted the interior to feel more organic as opposed to carefully staged, they decided not to hire an interior designer. Instead, they took their time to build out a space that represented all that matters most to them as a family. “We really wanted to have fun with the design process, so our approach was honestly a blend of both classic and slightly eccentric,” the wife reflected. “It helped that we saw the home as something that would evolve with us.” To marry both cultures, the clients selected rich blues and subtle creams to be prominent in the mudroom/coat room, mud/powder/ bath, back hall, family room and kitchen. Ceylon greens and peaches are dominant in the front hall, foyer, formal powder bath, living room and dining room. Patterns also played a major role in the project, as the homeowners sought to foster a sense of playfulness in the otherwise formal layout. In the study, a playful zebra-patterned rug is featured prominently. Meanwhile, the living room boasts a lively Schumacher wall covering featuring dragons. The most unique use of patterns, however, can be found in the family great room. There, amid the boldly colored blue walls and window treatments, sits a lovely Nepalese hand-knotted carpet with the Chinese symbol for double happiness repeated throughout. “In Chinese culture, the double happiness symbol is often equated with prosperity, success and family,” said the wife. “As family is a constant narrative throughout the home, we thought the carpet was a perfect addition.” The most surprising addition to the dining room? That would be the Schoenbeck chandelier that serves as a special centerpiece overhead. “We were really worried about whether or not it would be a great fit,” explained the homeowners. “But now, we love it!”

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The couple’s love of patterns is showcased in the study where a Stark hand-knotted silk rug greets visitors with its bold zebra print.

For the homeowners, the chance to display their family heirlooms was one of the things that they savored most about completing the project. To forget one’s ancestors is to be a brook without a source, a tree without root –Chinese proverb

The concept of family was also a major factor when it came time to add finishing touches such as art and furnishings. In fact, much of the painting and artwork displayed were created by the wife’s grandmother, while many of the furnishings demonstrate the legendary craftsmanship of her esteemed father-in-law. “A major influence in our love of the traditional classic Chinese, Hollywood Regency and French Chinoiserie periods was definitely inspired by the upholstery workrooms of my father-in-law, of the well-known Regency Shop, and his older brother,” she said. “They were truly master upholsterers, using Old World hand-sewn techniques. The expert hours put into each piece were definitely unmatched.” The elegant pair of ebony chairs upholstered with Holland & Sherry Chinese fret fabric and the antique Biedermeier chairs in the study were upholstered by her father-in-law himself. He also created the luxurious Scalamandré covered side chair located in the dining room, 48

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along with the lush headboard draped in classic Schumacher fabric in the guest bedroom. Meanwhile, the father-in-laws’ handiwork can largely be seen in the French Provençal walnut sofa in the living room. For the homeowners, the chance to display their family heirlooms was one of the things that they savored most about completing the project. “We treasure very much the few pieces we are so fortunate to have,” said the wife, “as they serve as centerpieces in our home, in addition to my grandmother’s Chinese paintings. It is a true marriage of the family’s Chinese and European history and culture.”

La Maison de Rufus The family was very pleased with the finished project—a space that truly honors some of the people and places they hold most dear. The couple knows that the chance to custom build a home is truly a privilege, and have nothing but praise for Byrne’s team and their dedication to the project’s completion. “JBMP was very fastidious and artistic about the million design details that come into play for a custom French aesthetic,” said the wife. “These include the exacting pitch East Coast Home + Design

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of the cedar mansard roof, leaded copper leaders and gutters, stone quoining, stone coping, arched dormers, arched doorways, coffers, paneled millwork, rift sawn and herringbone flooring, French beveled glass doors and cabinetry, to name just a few. It’s crucial for the architect to have a command of these essential basics.” Sadly, their beloved dog Rufus was not able to enjoy the home due to his passing not long after construction concluded. To honor him, the family decided to celebrate his life by adding a custom, hand50

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tooled, quarter-board sign officially renaming the home “La Maison de Rufus.” “Even though he is no longer with us, we wanted to honor him as well, as we knew the home would have given him joy. He was very much a part of our family,” the wife concluded. “And family, after all, is what this place is really about.”

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The homeowners worked closely to carefully preserve the plants and vegetation to give the outside a feel of the French countryside.

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Resources The clients wish to thank the following companies that had a hand in completing the project. Along with the work of JBMP, their craftsmanship and talent were unparalleled throughout the building process. Builder JN Contracting Joe Nannariello 245 Mill Street Greenwich, CT 06830 jnc-inc.com Landscape Architect Louis Felice Landscaping Harrison, New York 914.804.1503 louisfelice.com Integrated Electronic Solutions Dean Valencic 55 West 39th Street Suite 805 New York, NY 10018 212.575.7687 Twins Painting Kris Suchocki P.O. Box 5193 Greenwich, CT 06830 203.978.1878 JSJ Window Treatment Greg Cameron 3 Strickland Road Cos Cob, CT 06807 203.661.5123 SavATree Scot Boyce 531 Fayette Avenue Mamaroneck, NY 10543 914.777.1399

Architect Cormac Byrne JBMP 245 Mill Street Greenwich, CT 06830 203.531.1588 jbmparch.com

Gallery 52, Beverly Sansone 52 Purchase Street Rye, NY 10580 914.921.1585 Philip Castracucco Masonry Philip Castracucco 21 River Street Tuckahoe, NY 10707 914.906.0896

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ADVENTURES IN

ARCHITECTURE Our Areas Finest Architects share with us how their travels influence their design

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JONATHON WAGNER JWAIA.COM

or an architect, one of the benefits—or perhaps challenges—of travel is finding ways to meaningfully incorporate what you’ve observed and learned while travelling into your work. I’ve never been as concerned about the style of a house is as I’ve been about how it addresses its location and local traditions. But how do you translate ideas acquired while travelling appropriately into buildings designed for a totally different location—like Connecticut? For this house in Washington Depot, CT, I did just that to create a simple, modest (in cost, scale and pretentiousness) and sophisticated house for a family seeking to escape the pace of Fairfield County and enjoy their land, animals and new life. For this project (and other current jobs such as a new ski house in Vermont), I actually camped out on the property for a weekend to experience it fully! The experience taught me where the sun rises and sets, and provided insight about the best light, the least noise, the best breezes and the prettiest views on the property. It also helped me understand how to create a (secretly) fairly contemporary design in a way that fits in well with its surroundings, both built and natural. The “travel” in this case was not too far, but critical to a

successful project. As someone who has been fortunate to have lived my entire life in Fairfield County (practically in the same zip code!), I truly appreciate the need to get away from my immediate surroundings and see how the rest of the world looks and lives. To me, every work of architecture needs to be “grounded” in its context—the specifics of the site, neighboring buildings, regional architecture (even in Connecticut), the spirit of the community at large—so much so that the project seems “right” exactly where it is and nowhere else. I also believe that the simplicity of Early American architecture— barns, outbuildings, houses—isn’t a bad place to start in Connecticut, although few would describe most of my work as traditional. In retrospect, I wonder, how else can you design the perfect home for a site in an unfamiliar place without spending a night or two there? Maybe it’s a little strange, but it seems to be a good way to approach designing a new home. I admit that sometimes it can be a little scary to do so…and that’s why I keep my sketchpad close and my bear spray closer! East Coast Home + Design

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DINYAR WADIA WADIAASSOCIATES.COM

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hen Dinyar Wadia from Wadia Associates was asked to design a Jacobean style home for his clients, he remembered a photo he had taken years before. The photo was of Swell Manor in Gloucestershire, England, and proved to be an inspiration in his design process. It was in 1977 that Wadia visited Swell Manor, a beautiful Jacobean home originally built in 1902.“The general perception of traditional homes is that they are dark on the inside due to the size of the windows,” says Wadia. “Jacobean homes traditionally have windows that are much larger.”

Jacobean-style home. “This project embodies a carefully proportioned Jacobean home that is full of light inside, and offers a warm feeling of home on the outside in spite of its size,” he says. Although this home is on a larger scale, it truly embodies a welcoming nostalgic feeling. Wadia’s team excels at every style and period, which makes their projects interesting and their firm versatile. Wadia is known for not having a single style, but for work that encompasses many different forms. Team members enjoy working on projects of any size or shape, and are adaptable to many different projects, such as an entry canopy, a one-room addition or a new home— which can be a tree house or a substantial home.

His clients wanted a traditional-looking home that was light and bright on the inside. Wadia remembered his As one can see from this project, Wadia treats all his visit to Swell Manor and sketched out the plan for a projects with enthusiasm and dedication. East Coast Home + Design

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CHARLES HILTON

CHARLESHILTONARCHITECTS.COM

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t was the chance to bring healing to a community greatly affected by the events of 9/11 that inspired architect Chuck Hilton to design the Greenwich September 11th Memorial.

“I was asked to design the memorial by Mary Ann Morrison five years ago, when she was head of the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce and the Greenwich Community Projects Fund,” explained Hilton, who is also the acclaimed lead architect of his eponymous firm. “With this site, we wanted to honor the 32 families who lost loved ones. Not only will it be a place of comfort, but the memorial will be a place to educate future generations so that the lessons will not be forgotten.” Initially after the September 11 attack, a small memorial was established on Great Captain’s Island. But it proved to be largely inaccessible for many people due to the need for boat access or a beach pass. So this new site was created in the heart of Cos Cob Park to provide a more accessible spot on the mainland. Planning of the site was a collaborative effort between Hilton’s East Coast Home + Design

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team and the talented landscape architects at Doyle Herman Design Associates. The original design was focused on establishing a setting that would provide privacy for visitors seeking quiet reflection. After reviewing several possible layouts, Hilton along with Doyle Herman’s Kathryn Herman and Cheryl Brown settled on a location that offered two wheelchair-accessible paths made to mimic the Fibonacci spiral. “We chose the geometric shape because it represents the connection of animals, humans and plant life both here on Earth and in the galaxies,” Hilton explained. “Along the paths, we chose pin oak trees for their eventual scale and because they symbolize strength.” Kousa dogwoods were planted for their long-lasting flowers that bloom throughout the summer, as well as a low hedge of bayberry to line the walkway. Even more impressive was the planned inclusion of an oak tree seedling taken directly from Ground Zero. “The plant palette was intentionally kept simple so that it would accent the memorial structure without competing with it.” Among the landscape is a granite terrace paved from an abstraction of the original World Trade Center plaza. At the center are three pavement markers: one points towards New York City, one to Washington, DC, and the third to Sharpsville, PA. The NYC marker also contains a piece of steel indefinitely on loan from the Glenville, CT, Fire Department and the Port Authority of NY & NJ. The memorial’s most significant focal points, however, are the two large glass towers that were crafted to be in proportion and scale to the fallen World Trade Center. The creation of these was heavily influenced by a trip Hilton made to Venice five years ago. “I was there as part of the 2010 Leaders of Design summit, where I had a chance to visit an exhibition of etched and edge lit glass in Murano,” he said. “In addition, I toured the Seguso Glass Factory, where we witnessed the amazing array of glassworks.” Hilton found himself so moved by the experiences that he used them as a key creative force behind the memorial’s design. And with the solid professional contacts he made throughout his journeys, he was able to bring to fruition his final vision of a lasting tribute. “We really wanted to build a place within our hometown where the family members and friends of those lost could find solace—right here in Greenwich,” Hilton concluded. “It’s a place that will educate all, so that day is never forgotten.” East Coast Home + Design

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JUDITH LARSON GARDINERLARSONHOMES.COM udith Larson of Judith Larson Associates has been designing houses and renovations most of her life. It’s her passion; from the tree houses she built with her sisters in Easton, CT, where she grew up, to the large Greenwich and New Canaan estates of more recent

years.

Although she rarely takes time off from work, which she considers play in many ways, when she does travel, she tends not to wander too far from New England, always with her husband, Bill Gardiner, and their two dogs. They enjoy staying in small inns and B&Bs—in fact, she designed, built and owned one years ago in Westport. Her husband is also the primary builder with whom she works. The couple spends most of their vacation time in Nantucket, Vermont and the Berkshires. She and Bill (and, of course, the dogs) often take weekend drives up to Litchfield County, CT, where she is inspired by the simple, historic New England

homes that are found there. She loves their classic simplicity and charm. Apart from the historic areas in the Northeast, she also admires the beautiful and inspiring architecture of Charleston, SC, where she often visits friends. Judy ’s admiration for the traditional New England homes that she finds on her travels stands her in good stead, as her clients on the East Coast typically ask for classic New England Colonial houses—sometimes formal brick or stone, sometimes wooden farmhouse-style with welcoming porches. Another popular style her clients love is the 1890s-style summer home, Shingle- style architecture with gambrel or sloping rooflines, porches and large groupings of windows. Importantly, her clients want to combine a historic exterior with a modern, open feeling indoors. Their lives are casual, and they do a lot of entertaining with family and friends, so they want their homes to be livable and warm, with a very open and flowing floor plan.

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IRA GRANDBERG

GRANDBERGARCHITECTS.COM

rchitect Ira Grandberg has traveled to various countries on several occasions to meet the needs of his clients. His favorite parts of the world for providing architectural inspiration are Europe and Scandinavia, with a particular affinity for Scotland, England, Sicily and Turkey. Grandberg doesn’t set out to copy a building’s design in a foreign country; rather, he incorporates his experiences indirectly, based on a building’s presence and any particular details with whichhe is enamored. He believes this approach is important because it helps him understand how cultural determinants influence architecture, and how common threads run through all societies.

Grandberg prefers clients who know what architecture is all about—its art, its challenges and the effort it takes to achieve extraordinary results. He tends to stay friends with these clients for life! Glengorm Castle, located on the Scottish Isle of Mull, has had a large overall impact on Grandberg’s architectural practice. He and his wife have made numerous trips to Scotland over the years, and find themselves inexplicably drawn to this early 19th-century estate. Here’s how he describes his experiences there: “ The stone dwelling sits atop a bluff surrounded by sheep and cattle pastures with unobstructed ocean views of the Sea of the Hebrides with the North Atlantic Ocean beyond. Arrival is along a winding, five-mile, ancient woodland road culminating in a wonderful surprise—an abrupt view of the castle, standing alone against the elements.

His clients on the East Coast typically ask for French- or English-style country homes, which typically take two or more years to build. He makes sure he works with builders who ap- “ The severe beauty of the exterior defines the meaning of preciate the level of detailing and craftsmanship required to ‘shelter,’ while the playful interaction of forms delights the eye, in anticipation of the interior experiences. From the stone complete his quality homes. East Coast Home + Design

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entry vestibule to the cozy Scottish living room, an immediate sense of comfort is established. The first-floor library and adjoining dining room have large bay windows that frame a disciplined visual panorama to the lawn, distant pastures and the rugged North Atlantic coastline beyond. Sunsets are captured in all their glory. Off the living room is an interior paneled stair hallway, with wonderful diffused light from a skylight, leading to generously-sized bedrooms.

coherent architectural details do the job. When you’re inside, in the harshest of weather, you feel comfortable and protected.

“All rooms are beautifully scaled and detailed. Nothing is overdone or overly embellished. There is no need for interior decorating in a formal sense. The tired fabrics, overstuffed chairs and couches, paneling, wallcoverings and selective and

“Glengorm makes me realize what a complete architectural experience is, regardless of the stylistic variables that we, as architects, must deal with today.”

“ The ‘Manor ’ is the epitome of layout, scale, detailing and orientation to the land. These experiences stick with you when it’s time to design homes for clients. I believe that so many of today ’s homes are merely stage settings for what once was; however, there are still opportunities to achieve what could be.

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eorge Dumitru believes that travelling around the world with current projects in mind is always helpful and serves his clients’ interests. Projects can be kept up-to-date with the latest ideas, trends and technologies. Dumitru, in spite of his busy schedule, tries to do this at least once a year. Because he is European-born, Europe is usually his target destination.

France, Austria and Italy. However, because Europe has a long tradition of exquisite architecture, Dumitru notes, there are many building gems to be discovered. There are so many architectural influences in all the small countries, which makes a short trip anywhere an eye-opening experience.

“Every design item is full of intricacies and complexity, so that experiencing a different, country-specific approach is always reHis favorite countries for providing architectural inspiration are freshing,” said Dumitru. “And the moment you think you’ve seen 70

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GEORGE DUMITRU STUDIODUMITRU.COM

complex—the house has to be a representation of the client and tell a story that each individual has not, or has rarely, seen before. No client comes to him and says, “I want a house, and I don’t care how it looks.” The process is so customized that each project is different. The steps from design to completion always depend on the individual project and/or situation. If the process is rushed, there is always a price to be paid. Relationships with builders are symbiotic. Many believe that a builder can exist without an architect, but the end results in those cases are not usually good. On the other hand, an architect can produce the most beautiful drawings, but without a good builder they are just that: beautiful drawings.

it all, any little trip shows you something new and unexpected. Even if the newly discovered gem doesn’t always apply specifically to your market, the approach and concept are enough to open your designer’s treasure chest. In the world of architecture, it’s important to keep up with the world of design. Living under a rock and being oblivious to the world is the kiss of intellectual death.” Dumitru’s clients on the East Coast typically ask for good, solid, lifestyle-customized design. Even in the world of tradition, the design has to be true to style and architecturally correct. In modern architecture, the tale becomes ever more

Clients entrust Dumitru’s firm with their family nests, so the responsibility on the architect’s shoulders is huge. When construction is over, and the designers and builders are all out of the house, Dumitru wants his clients to tell their friends he has done a fantastic job, and that his firm is the best around. The ultimate praise is that they wouldn’t hesitate to sign on all over again.

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ANTHONY MINICHETTI AMARCHITECTLLC.COM

nthony Minichetti appreciates the benefits of travelling. Years ago, as an art student at Yale, he visited the Kuntsmuseum in Basel, Switzerland, and was deeply inspired by the contemporary artwork on display, which continues to inform his work. So when clients came to him with the dream of having a Hamptons, Long Island, vacation home that echoed their travels, Minichetti designed a house that is all about a carefree lifestyle with large spaces for entertaining indoors and out. He implemented “amenities found in some of the finest resorts my clients visited over the years,” he says. 72

In this particular project in Quogue, Southampton, he did a contemporary take on a shingle-style beach house, making sure, he explains, to “incorporate clean line detailing with opulent finishes that are not too precious to enjoy.” The home he designed with contemporary detailing is appropriate for the current lifestyle of this young, growing family, a place where there is plenty of space for friends to gather. As you enter the front living room, you are greeted by a tremendous ocean mural that encompasses the whole wall. A custom geometric carpet and select antiques with linear shapes keep the interior young and

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hip. The house includes an oversized master suite and freestanding tub, both of which allow for ocean views so the owners feel they are taking a vacation even while bathing. Many of the rooms have terraces with views of both the ocean and the bay, adding to the retreat vibe. Other vacation-inspired parts of this home include an invisible-edge soaking pool and spa, exercise room and game room. The exercise room is not hidden in a dark lower level but out in the open space on the second floor, since exercise is part of the owners’ daily routine, even when on vacation. The pool and spa are directly connected to

the living spaces for ease of access any time of day or evening. “This shingle-style residence is an updated version with expansive walls of glass and open floor plans,” says Minichetti. “The entry foyer and living spaces are double height with walls of glass that allow nature access to the interiors.” This house is all about carefree entertaining, and it is the perfect travel escape. Minichetti’s designs blend a sharp sense of the classic with contemporary insight and technique, ensuring that his creations— modern or traditional—will always be timeless in style. East Coast Home + Design

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CAROL KURTH

CAROLKURTHARCHITECTS.COM

Shadow in Italy

Shadow in Panama

arol Kurth is a lover of travel, and on her numerous trips she has brought back inspiration for future projects. Much of her work has been inspired by sites that have indigenous rock outcroppings, which have always fascinated her. She is currently working on a home that is a weekend retreat, where one exposed rock outcropping will form the backdrop for a hot tub setting, and another part of the exterior wall. Kurth recently traveled to Italy, where she did some creative work in a sculpture studio; her firm currently has these sculptures on display at her office in Bedford. Kurth is also working on importing unique stone slabs from Italy, and an incredible sculptural screen/bookcase designed by Giorgio Porcelli of Porcelli Marmi, which she hopes to integrate into a current project. Touring Carrara, Italy, and working in the sculpture studio, said Kurth, has added a â&#x20AC;&#x153;new dimension to my interest in the use of stone in my projects. Working with large

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slabs of stone to create dramatic details, such as this custom trough sink, is a hallmark of my firm’s projects.” Kurth was in awe of the sheer scale of this Carrara quarry and the adjacent Calcutta quarry. “ The trip has given me a new infusion of inspiration and a desire to work with large blocks of stone,” she said. On a recent project, she said she “spent weeks searching through local stone yards to source the largest piece of Calcutta marble I could find for a project with a huge kitchen island.” She increased the island slab even more by adding a border of the same stone, with an inset metal detail. Kurth loves the way modern retail in Italy contrasts with the antiquity of the architecture—striking dissimilarities that inspire her to meld the architectural lines. She would love to do a project in an ancient structure with contrasting sheer glass panels, testing the limits of materials in dramatic, bold 76

ways. She would use concealed LED lighting, emphasizing and highlighting the architectural details. Travelling to Italy, said Kurth, has reinforced her passion for “ working with a historic backdrop for modern design, as in this historic Hiram Halle renovation project my firm completed.” The colors of Tuscany are at home in this modern barn setting, accented by the rustic tones of the raw concrete floor. Kurth also had the pleasure of visiting Panama, where she saw “concrete, color, form, folded origami roof lines and industrial raw materials transformed into beautiful inspiring architecture,” she recalled. Her firm is currently working on several projects using exposed concrete as a finish material. Although she has used decorative concrete for prior projects

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primarily on the interior, she has a renewed interest in using concrete as an outdoor feature façade material. Kurth’s firm just broke ground on a home in Greenwich, where concrete will feature prominently as an exterior cladding material. On her trip to Panama, she was also excited to tour the Biomuseo building. In her Hobby Barn project, she featured “the client’s artwork, a screen made from recycled metal, which both in color and texture are reminiscent of the Gehry-designed Biomuseo.” The pops of accent color on the furnishings are echoed in the poster art collection and the sculptural “origami-like” screen, she said, “conjuring imagery of the corrugated rooflines at the Biomuseo.” East Coast Home + Design

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MICHAEL SMITH

MICHAELSMITHARCHITECTS.COM

Coast-style exteriors with rchitect Michael more open, modern interiSmith has typicalors. From the design stage ly travelled mostly to completion usually takes in the U.S., espe18 to 24 months. cially in coastal New EngHe strongly believes that land. After 20 years as an the architect and the buildarchitect, he’s still trying er must be on the same to discover new “hidden page, and have a healthy gems” in his excursions. These inspirations are respect and understanding found in small coastal vilfor one another. To this lages like Stony Creek, CT, end, he works very hard to and Monhegan Island, ME. establish relationships with He has also spent much builders because this will time in more well-known areas, such as Watch Hill and New- ultimately benefit his clients. It’s important, says Smith, to port, RI, and Edgartown, MA, where he greatly admires the earn the respect of the people for whom you are building, as grand Shingle-style work of the Guilded Age. you want them to be totally satisfied. When a client states that hiring Smith’s firm was the smartest decision he/she has ever Smith believes these areas represent a time in the U.S. that is made, this makes everything worthwhile. unparalleled in terms of architectural design. The architectural examples in these places are one-of-a-kind, and the archi- Each project is designed specifically to the client’s wishes. The tects who created them, such as Richard Morris Hunt, H.H. environment and the historical context of the project are also Richardson, Charles Follen McKim, William Rutherford Mead taken into account. The underlying philosophy of the firm is and Stanford White were truly among the greatest of all time. focused on the idea that carefully applying design principles The bottom line is that Smith is always paying attention to of simplicity, consistency and authenticity will yield a timewhatever environment he finds himself in. No matter where less work of architecture, regardless of the style or type of he is, he’s always looking, taking pictures and researching the building. Also, MSA is a member of the U.S. Green Building built environment. This strategy informs his thought process- Council, and thus strives to incorporate sustainable or “green” es in a big way when it comes to designing houses. features into its projects. At the same time, it aims to integrate these new technologies into each design in a harmonious Smith’s East Coast clients typically ask for traditional East- and seamless way. East Coast Home + Design

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CHRIS PAGLIARO ROGER BARTELS NICK SAJDA PBS-ARCHS.COM

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agliaro, Bartels & Sajda (PBS) Architects finds its inspiration in Europe and America, where there is an obvious respect for the history of architecture. When an Istanbul born client asked the firm to do a project for her Greenwich home, she first wanted to show PBS her hometown. The firm “knew the visit would deeply enrich her design with the benefits of history,” said Roger Bartels, one of the firm’s partners. Travelling to and experiencing its sites is a prerequisite of the PBS practice, as they believe “it is the foundation of an architect’s being,” explains Bartels. The client decided to take all three of the firm’s members to Istanbul, Turkey, so they could experience its seductive character. Bartels had last visited the Byzantine capital in 1971, and it has grown substantially since. He observed, “It is a labyrinth of low-rise urbanity organized into neighborhoods around the soft-swelling, vaulted masses of the Ottoman mosques, punctuated with minarets.”

as a book collection display. It would also be a museum for small artifacts collected on her almost continuous worldwide business trips. “ The hope was to unify this plethora of items,” said Bartels. “ The answer was hovering 10 feet over our heads as we entered the vast volume of Hagia Sophia,” Bartels continued. Built as a Christian church in 537 A.D., the Hagia Sophia was converted to a mosque in 1204. The firm partners, said Bartels, quickly learned that the “Christian concept is to soar; pure vertical space from floor to the top of the dome. Islam, conversely, emphasized the worldly life below and the mysterious heavens above.” This led to the realization that they needed to install low-hanging circular chandeliers to divide the two worlds. “Our client loved those light fixtures,” said Bartels, “It represented her culture.” And the architect loves them because of their location in the space.

PBS Architects truly does the groundwork to get to know its clients, even if it means travelling to their hometowns. “We The firm’s task was to find comparisons and ideas that con- believe that the style of a façade is secondary,” said Bartels. nected to the light-filled, three-story, jewel-box library in the “It is ideas, environments, people and circumstances that are client’s home. This was to be an atrium that would double the soul of architecture.” East Coast Home + Design

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To break up the condoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long and narrow passages, Tanksley installed elongated glass French doors. The glass not only adds an elegant touch to the space, but also lets in natural light to some of the darker areas.

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New York State of Mind Residential designer Alan Tanksley works his magic to bring the best of the Big Apple to his clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new home. Story by Jennifer Jackson-Outlaw Photography by John Armich

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n many respects, the perspective of acclaimed interior designer Alan Tanksley is reminiscent of Billy Joel’s musical love note to the City that Never Sleeps.

Like the classic song, “New York State of Mind,” Tanksley’s expansive portfolio celebrates a real-world lifestyle stripped away from the trappings of overly staged perfection. Instead of chasing fancy trends championed by celebrity designers, he focuses on creating warm and welcoming environments geared to how people actually live. His various projects have taken him from a rustic Wyoming homestead to a cozy Tribeca condominium. But no matter where he travels, he prides himself on his reasoned approach to design—one, he says, that has been largely influenced by a single book. “Early in my career I was fortunate to get exposed to A Pattern Language,” explained Tanksley from his office in the heart of New York City, “and it changed the way I looked at design. The idea behind it is that individuals and their lifestyle patterns should be the driving force behind how we create spaces. To me, it made a lot of sense because it seemed practical. “So I don’t do staged sets,” he continued. “Instead, I have a very organic way of thinking about how a person lives. My main concern is where the clients want to be in a particular room. What experiences are they looking for? Design should be a natural fit for each room to reflect how they use it. ” Perhaps it was only fitting, then, that Tanksley’s firm was recently asked to transform a recently converted condominium overlooking Midtown into the ideal Big Apple refuge. The clients, a couple behind the creation of Crocs, wanted someone who understood their admiration for the city’s mystique. Easy Living “The customers actually reside in Canada, but they often found themselves in New York for work,” said Tanksley. “They were looking for a secondary residence, a place they could easily entertain both their teenagers and friends in a relaxed atmosphere.” The couple had few demands for the project, other than it being a truly casual space for them to enjoy. More importantly, they wanted it to reflect what they considered the “New York experience.” “They had always wanted a place of their own in New York, and were excited to be in an urban area so different from their main residence,” said Tanksley. “They wanted their home to be laidback, but still reflect what is great about the city.” Tanksley had worked previously with the developers of their new abode, so he was well versed in its layout. Housed in the historic Parkwood, the pre-war condo lofts were carefully renovated to combine some of the era’s no-frills charm with a modern flair. All the units were approximately 1,800 square feet with massive windows, oversized kitchens and reinforced beamed ceilings. There were also ribbed glass passage doors with stylish bullet hinges to 86

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Walnut flooring is used throughout the space to offer a contrast between the bold patterns of the furnishings and the neutral walls.

give the interior a sense of classic elegance. Tanksley wanted to ensure that the open layout was conducive to allowing a large group of people to interact comfortably with each other, while also establishing separate spaces for eating and food prep. To help with this, he installed elongated glass-plated French doors to break up the condo’s long layout. He also placed chairs strategically to better establish the different living spaces. Illuminating Spaces Perhaps one of the home’s most unique qualities is its long and narrow shape, with plenty of open space in the living and dining rooms areas. Because of this, Tanksley’s biggest challenge was ensuring that the entire condo was well lit, as the center of the loft was often darker than the rest of the interior. To brighten up the entire space, he made the walls a soft cream with golden tints, and incorporated lamps of various sizes that provide light without seeming overly fussy. To finish the illuminating effect, he brought in light-colored wood for the flooring. With the neutral colors in place, Tanksley then dared to mix fabrics and patterns to liven things up. He placed a fun and funky lounger covered with brown printed velvet in the living room. An overstuffed sofa offers up a lively design to contrast with the space’s muted peach and grays. In the bedroom, a mid-century East Coast Home + Design

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Edward Wormley chair adds a playful flair with its lime-green stripes. “One of the most refreshing parts of this project was that the clients embraced the idea of mixing patterns,” said Tanksely. “This was really amazing since most clients are afraid to do it. So it was definitely a great experience. I would introduce some colors and designs I thought would work, and they allowed me to run with it.” 88

Simple Elegance Because the clients were open to taking design risks, Tanksley decided to make the small bathroom slightly more formal than the rest of the home. So he dropped the golden tones that decorated the rest of the apartment and made the bathroom walls a crisp white. For a touch of color, he brought in colored tile and limestone flooring.

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One of the most refreshing parts of this project was that the clients embraced the idea of mixing patterns. This was really amazing since most clients are afraid to do it. So it was definitely a great experience. I would introduce some colors and designs I thought would work, and they allowed me to run with it.

In the living room, a light shelf is used to display the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive glass art collection, while the sofa livens up the neutral tones with its bold patterns. Right: Sunlight pours into the dining area, highlighting the walnut flooring and mahogany table.

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A photo of New York City’s skyline from the 1930s graces the walls of the condo’s guest room. The piece was recreated from one found in Tanksley’s office.

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The beautiful custom-made vanity was heavily inspired by famous French designer Jacques Quinet.

He considered the custom-made vanity to be the true centerpiece of the bathroom. The structure was heavily inspired by the legendary French architect and furniture designer Jacques Quinet, whose work was renowned for its marriage of deceptively simple lines and perfect proportions. He considered the custom-made vanity to be the true centerpiece of the bathroom. The structure was heavily inspired by the legendary French architect and furniture designer Jacques Quinet, whose work was renowned for its marriage of deceptively simple lines and perfect proportions. “I had discovered Quinet before working on this project and really loved his portfolio,” explained Tanksely. “I knew I had to incorporate it somehow, and thought the vanity would be the best opportunity to do so.” Tanksley paid homage to Quinet’s classic style by crafting a vanity that boasts dual sinks with polished metal hardware. He applied a lacquered spray veneer the surface for an aged look, and added a stone countertop. Finally, to give the bathroom the illusion of being larger, he raised the vanity with the use of metal legs. Personal Touch Art played an important role in the home’s final design, as Tanksley incorporated the family’s artwork throughout much of the interior. He placed a shelf in the living room to prominently display the husband’s glass collection, and also hung several of the couple’s paintings

in the living and dining rooms. But perhaps the clients’ favorite piece came not from their stash but from Tanksley’s own personal collection. “I had a 1930s cityscape hanging in my office, which they really loved,” he says. “So I decided to blow it up and put it in their guest bedroom.” The clients believe the colorful photo adds just the right amount of charm to the room. It gives their overnight visitors the perfect place to lay their heads and dream about “taking a Greyhound on the Hudson River Line.” Billy Joel would be proud. Resources Alan Tanksley, Inc. 186 5th Ave #2 New York, NY 10010 212.481.8454 alantanksley.com East Coast Home + Design

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Hidden Treasures

Versatex WHERE ONCE ONLY WOOD SEEMED FIT TO TRIM TOP-END COASTAL HOMES, NOW PVC ATTRACTS MAINTENANCE-AVERSE HOMEOWNERS & ARCHITECTS

Story by Rick Kapres

s their clients dreamed of coastal living, architects and builders used to lie awake and wonder how to supply the distinctive design and woodwork that waterside homeowners prize without incurring the maintenance that comes with it. But in the past few years, architects, builders (and their clients too) have been converging on a solution: trim and even whole-house cladding that duplicate the look of wooden millwork, but are made from a rugged material called cellular PVC. It shrugs off salt, sun and storms indefinitely; resists moisture better than any type of wood; and never needs painting.

Architect Bill Huey explains: “PVC has long been my go-to material for coastal exteriors.” Many of his clients are East Coast residents eager to build second or third homes in environments as demanding as Kiawah Island, S.C., where subtropical heat and humidity intensify the conditions that more northerly ocean-front residences endure. High-grade cellular PVC that’s made in the U.S.A., he says, is manufactured under precisely controlled conditions. Its consistency and stability, like its long-term resistance to the elements, suit it for applications where easy fabrication, weather resistance and low maintenance are mission-critical.

It’s a win-win situation for homeowners who want to enjoy their time “Over the years I’ve seen how well it performs, and how it retains its near the water, not cope with peeling paint and decaying woodwork good looks. I’ve evolved to the point where now I’m designing homes that are almost totally clad in PVC. year after year. PVC was discovered almost 150 years ago, and it’s been a construction-industry standby for decades. Until recently, however, few homeowners knew about it. But, thanks to innovative architects, builders and manufacturers, premium PVC has evolved into an elegant alternative to wooden millwork. 92

“Of course, it is an engineered product, and when they first heard about it, some homeowners confused it with cheap, mass-produced plastic. But there’s nothing flimsy, nothing imitation, about goodquality PVC. It’s a premium material, like mahogany or granite, that fulfills my functional requirements, and that can take any shape I have

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in mind.” According to Jim Montgomery, construction and project manager for the high-end coastal home builder Lettieri Construction in Jamesport, N.Y., “Ten or twelve years ago, we’d suggest PVC and clients’ eyebrows would go up. But today they’re a lot more informed about materials. In our kick-off meetings, a lot of them open with, ‘Have you guys heard of this PVC stuff?’ “Word has gotten around,” Mr. Montgomery says. “When they’re ready to spend $10 million or $15 million on a summer home, people wonder, ‘Now, what’s this going to cost to maintain?’ One neighbor says ‘I used mahogany and I have to paint the house every other year—it just never stops.’ Another neighbor tells them, ‘I went with PVC. There’s no visible difference between PVC and wood, and it looks just as good today as it did four years ago.’ “So one owner gets hit with a $200,000 paint job every couple of years, and the other buys a boat with the money he saves on maintenance. Lesson learned.” Architect Mark Schwartz, of Mark Schwartz & Associates, Cutchogue, N.Y., concedes that he still runs into pockets of skepticism. “But it’s mostly due to budget concerns or lack of information, not aesthetics. Because many of our clients are second homeowners, finding high-quality, low-maintenance solutions is important. Once they understand the benefits of the PVC approach, the question tends to resolve itself.” In fact, a shared interest in maintenance issues can bring clients and architects closer together, Mr. Huey says. “Once they get the technical details, and they see that we as architects share their interest in maintenance reduction, they accept our expertise as a selling point.” A low-maintenance philosophy encompasses more than trim and cladding, Mr. Schwartz says. “In addition, we also recommend PEX piping vs. copper, spray foam insulation, cement-board siding, composite roofing materials rather than traditional shingles and other, ‘new’ solutions that reduce maintenance while preserving the coastal aesthetic.”

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But is all this really necessary? “Absolutely,” says Mr. Schwartz, who noted that, as coastal sites unavoidably erode paint and eat away at wooden millwork, “High humidity, strong seasonal weather variations, exposure to the elements—they all make alternative building materials a strong consideration.” Mr. Huey elaborates: “We have a combination of intense weather factors to deal with: the moisture-laden air, the direct, baking solar exposure, the incredible amount of salt spray. Just one example: On a home we just completed, we installed a stainless steel grille—and this is very high-quality stainless. In not even a year, it’s been rust-damaged. Copper lighting fixtures we installed at the same time are now verdigris green, whereas inland it takes 10 to 15 years to get that kind patina.” “Whether you’re on the ocean or Oyster Bay, or a block from the water,” Mr. Montgomery adds, “the salt is brutal. You have to use 3/16ths stainless for every metal fitting. Brass is not an option; it doesn’t hold up. And copper? Put it on today and it’s weathered tomorrow. You have to polish everything to try to give it a little bit of life. “Add constant moisture to that, and under those conditions the wood is just not going to hold up. Starting at ground level, the environment is not conducive to natural materials. It’s almost like you’re trying to build on a sponge. The water just eats up everything up that’s associated with wood. “But PVC, on the other hand, is a home run for the homeowner. No 94

maintenance-related distractions from a pleasant coastal existence.” Mr. Huey says, “PVC is so appealing because it doesn’t retain moisture. Water management is the most important aspect of what we do from a building science standpoint, and access to a product that’s impervious to water issues is huge for us.” To longevity and low maintenance, he adds one more advantage: PVC makes it possible to bring to life ideas that would be difficult or impossible to build with traditional materials. “On one of my earliest applications with this material, I had the idea of using large panels of PVC sheet to create a pilaster effect without any seams. Fabricating it with wood would have been prohibitively expensive a well as time consuming, and the end result would have fallen victim to the weather in just a few seasons. PVC was the longlasting answer. “And that new home I mentioned, the one that’s 100 percent trimmed and clad in PVC: It has a projecting bay with a rolling, sweeping base that sweeps back into the side of the house without any square corners. If they know what they’re doing, builders can form PVC on-site—seamlessly—into shapes that a shipbuilder would admire, shapes that would be much more difficult to construct with any other material.” “In areas like Easthampton, Westhampton and West Hampton Beach, New York, Mr. Montgomery says, “we take PVC and actually sculpt

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it into forms that are unique to the individual home. ‘Eyebrows’ over windows, brackets, bell-shaped turrets on the outside, and a growing number of one-of-a-kind features inside the house. “I just did a dining room that was oval in shape, so all of the interior trim, all of the crown moldings and casings had to curved precisely to fit. On two stairwells, we had to produce complicated three-dimensional curves for the stringers and handrails—all exactly radiused to follow the spiral of the stairs. The fit and finish were amazing, and we did it on-site. If those components had been produced offsite with traditional materials, it’s hard to imagine what they would have cost, or how difficult they would have been to make with the same accuracy.” To sum it all up, acceptance of PVC in place of wood looks like an irreversible trend for coastal living. As homeowners learn more about materials, they’re making the connection between harsh environmental conditions and the prospect of continuous maintenance costs. They’re finding that PVC makes most maintenance a thing of the past, and that its versatility can translate into unique design features for their homes. Working with like-minded architects, they’ve gained confidence in this innovative alternative to traditional materials. Versatex Building Products 400 Steel Street Aliquippa, PA 15001 724.857.1111 versatex.com East Coast Home + Design

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Hidden Treasures

Legacy Construction Offers Cutting-Edge Solar Roofing System in Westchester

egacy Construction Northeast is pleased to announce that it is flexibility. The POWERHOUSE system also has a 20-year warranty now an authorized dealer of the POWERHOUSE Solar Sys- backed by Dow. tem 2.0, an innovative roof system developed by Photon SysFor interested clients, Legacy will do the initial consultation and then tems LLC, a subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Company. team up with Dow to calculate the return on investment. With the PH While traditional solar roof panels tend to be large, conspicuous eye- 2.0 installed at the correct southern exposure, roof pitch and size, and sores, the new PH 2.0 is aesthetically appealing, with the system de- with proper tree shading, Legacy estimates that customers can save signed to integrate into the roof and lie flush with the asphalt or wood 30% to 50% of their electricity costs per year. Any excess power that is shingles. Available to residential and commercial property owners, the produced by the system can be sold back to the utility company. PH 2.0 also provides a substantial savings in energy costs per year, and “It is important to offer clients cutting-edge technology on the energy can be installed on both new and existing older structures. frontier,” said Yaroscak. “Though the cost of a solar power system Legacy Construction Northeast is one of only a few select partners affects the bottom line, our customers understand that the overall perwho are reselling the PH 2.0 in the Westchester area. “We are very ex- formance is superior, and that the cost savings realized in the future cited to partner with Dow,” said Chris Yaroscak, co-owner of Legacy. makes it a practical choice. “ “Dow is a world-renowned company with tremendous resources. The level of training and continuing education it offers will keep us in the Additional bonuses of the PH 2.0 are the 30% tax incentive offered forefront of solar technology, and we look forward to a continuing by the federal government, and the rebates from state and local utility relationship with Dow for years to come.” company. “The tax saving is currently available on all systems installed and operational by the end of 2016,” said Yaroscak, “and we are hopeDeveloped with solar performance and weather elements in mind, the ful these incentives will continue for years to come.” PH 2.0 provides robust waterproofing integration with common roofing materials and fewer roof penetrations than panels. Key features Chris Yaroscak of this system over a traditional solar system include increased power Legacy Construction Northeast density, uniform appearance for superior aesthetics, projected lower 4 MacDonald Avenue installation costs, easier removal/replacement of the solar PV insert Armonk, NY 10504 to facilitate system maintenance and replacement, and roof penetration 914.273.4511

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