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HOME+DESIGN
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EAST
COAST
HOME+DESIGN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016
ISSUE 78
FEATURES
42 Central Park Perfection A Contemporary Retreat for a Family of Six
Story by Maria Brown
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Seaclusion A Greenwich Couple Designs a Family Retreat in Jamaica
Story by Christine Benton
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A Suburban Bungalow With City Sensibilities Story by Maria Brown
E A S T
C OA S T
HOME+DESIGN
DEPARTMENTS 5 10 76
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Editors Letter Kitchen and Bath Events
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Melange In the Field Hidden Treasures
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O p e n y our d o or to Livable Luxury
E A S T
C O A S T
HOME+DESIGN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016
ISSUE 78
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 Story by Lisa Gant 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.
21 Bridge Square Westport CT 06880 203.331.5578 jan@janhiltzinteriorsllc.com www.janhiltzinteriorsllc.com
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EAST COAST HOME PUBLISHING 111 FOREST AVENUE FAIRFIELD, CT 06824 EASTCOASTHOMEPUBLISHING.COM
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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 elcome It’s atrue. new Ifyear and in that vein, it’s a new start. Isn’t it great? Every time a digit to leak like a sieve, this is a nightmare, but thattois2016! no longer changes on the calendar, all get to start fresh! I can feel it in the air. I feel that this is going to be you’re in New England, you’re designing for a snow load, and youwe have a year of growth, a year of personal challenge. A year of change and a year of excellence. 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 Look around. Take a second out of your day and look around at how we are becoming more simplistic in our lives. roof, you can shed the load, distribute it. So as the products continue Speaking with my cohorts, the revaluation of our lives is complete. We, as a society have become more simplistic to develop perhaps we’ll seeinmore of a shift toward more contempoour needs. We have shed, for a lack of a better word: stuff and have concentrated on possessing fewer items, but rary and modern structures.personally significant items. Lucien Vita: We are pleased to find that clients who love modern design are feeling emboldened theagrowing It isby truly challengetrend to thetoward sheltermodern community. It is no longer about sheer volume of possessions, but the meaninteriors, and in fact are looking for a fully modern exterior as well. ing of those possessions and how they influence our daily lives. You can see it in the pages of our magazine. One great item instead of five We non-important believe that theitems. acceptance of was our the passion modern interiors is Because we want to live in smaller spaces, more responsibly. Storage, catchfor phrase of 2015. Why? leading to a growing confidence and acceptance of modern exteriors. Howard People wantwith energy houses, don’t asktheir individual innovations and showcase their talents to our audience. I lookLathrop: forward to working my efficient partners in 2016 they to showcase for Starting contemporary or colonial, they want them energy Galleries efficient.inSoNew Canaan to create vignettes with our Interior Designers to showcase this February, we have partnered with Sorelle their Each what vignette will be upcoming issues of ECH+D. when youtalents. go through it takes to featured make an in energy efficient house, you end up with a contemporary vernacular on the outside and evSECRET LOVERS In the March Issue, we will on annual and Architects Roundtable.” This is my personal favorite event. A lively eryone wants contemporary onbethefocusing inside, so our I think it’s “Builders technology Secret Lovers is characterized discussion that’s driving aonlotthe ofstate this. of the industry. by beautiful, artistic 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 With a new digit in the calendar comes a new focus. I hope look forward to our focus, it’s going to be fun! there. I thinkucts we’rein fooling ourselves weofthink we’regolden seeing ayou trend. the market is the if use platinum ROBERT 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 back of each of the two chairs. how we use spaces, the trend is coming with the Millennial generatake on a life ofconvenient their own when used in interesting scale pull-out shelves, racks and and combined with unexpected materials. Before Kolk tionMatthew and going to explodesicis.com and change Forget Artistthat’s Julia Contacessi bins foreverything. placing cans andabout other foods Chuck Hilton Editor-in-Chief traditional, contemporary, it’s going to change the entire house. withinWe’re easy reach. mattkolk@me.com
EDITOR’S LETTER
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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.
D U N E
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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2016
Kitchen &Bath Issue
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STUDIO DEARBORN Sara Robertson studiodearborn.com What were the clients’ goals in designing this kitchen?
My clients were seeking a bright, welcoming space with thoughtful storage and classic details. We spent the majority of our time refining the storage aspects of the kitchen, making tweaks to the organization right up until production time. In a large kitchen, it’s critical not only to have enough space for everything, but to think about putting frequently used items within easy grasp. The client has small children, making this level of efficiency paramount. When a child is sitting on the island, you can’t be walking all over the kitchen to prepare him a snack!
Could you please tell us about some of the materials you used in this project?
The custom kitchen cabinetry is solid maple with a catalyzed conversion varnish, available through Studio Dearborn. Countertops are Calacatta Picasso marble, exclusively from Rye Marble and Stone. Polished nickel hardware and metal grilles mix nicely with brushed gold light fixturesB acksplash tile in a handmade ceramic subway from Nanacq in 3x6 white glossy is available from Lima Tile, Stamford. Finishes throughout the home were through Elizabeth Thurer Interior Design in Rye.
What makes a kitchen look timeless?
I am constantly being asked by clients for a timeless look. Sometimes I think it helps to look back at kitchens from our past—the Something’s Gotta Give kitchen from 2003 East Coast Home + Design
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or, even further, to the classic kitchens of the Newport Mansions built in the early 20th century but still relevant today. There is a remarkable similarity: classic furniture-style cabinetry, for one. The cabinetry from Something’s Gotta Give has remarkable similarities to the cabinetry within the Breakers and Marble Mansions in Newport, and I have photos to prove it! Old World stone surfaces such as Carrara marble, calacatta or soapstone; subway-style ceramic tile taken all the way to the ceiling; open shelves, pot racks, classic pro-style ranges. The timeless kitchen feels welcoming, envelops the user in a feeling of well-being, and is designed for both cooking and entertaining.
What should be the focus for someone who is on a budget?
I try to convince my clients to plan to right size their cabinetry. Go with quality, and get only what you need—don’t go overboard and fill every wall with cabinets. Clients are amazed at how much less storage they need when each cabinet is thoughtfully designed! In addition to saving money, clients free up space for windows and circulation, which make a space feel larger.
Where should you splurge?
Splurge on items where you get better quality. I always follow the rule that things that get used every day should be of the highest quality you can afford. You will see a real difference in quality between lowend and high-end cabinetry; same with appliances. But always be careful to spend money on quality, not a high-end name brand. One does not necessarily equal the other, and it’s important to do your research.
What is trending in kitchens for 2016?
The year 2016 will also see a continuation of the trend towards open living. There is no denying that the modern kitchen is converging with a home’s primary living space. Smart storage and hidden and integrated appliances will enhance the flow from kitchen to living areas, allowing functional items to be tucked away.
East Coast Home + Design
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IRP KITCHENS | Fede Martin irpkitchensny.com What were the clients’ goals in designing this kitchen?
They wanted an open space. Some of the projects in the city or in New Jersey, where apartments are not really big, need space from a design point of view, but also need real space in cabinets. We knocked down walls in the old kitchen and made the new one very open, with a large island to entertain and with space for kitchen work. There are also cabinets in the back of the island, underneath the overhang of the countertop. It’s a good place to store what you don’t use every day.
Could you please tell us about some of the materials you used in this project? 14
We used a laminate finish for the base cabinets, Palissandro, and for the upper cabinets we used white lacquered high-gloss finish. Also, we used a very clear quartz in the countertop and the same quartz in the backsplash to give the kitchen that open and “bigger” look
What makes a kitchen look timeless?
For me, the quality of the materials. You can have a kitchen for10 years looking like it did the first year if you choose the right quality material from quality manufacturers. You can still have a trendy kitchen 10 years after you redo it.
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What should be the focus for someone on a budget?
The countertop is one of the more expensive items in the kitchen. You can lower the price of the kitchen by choosing quartz or granite rather than natural marble. Also, remember that when deciding how you want to finish the countertop, the less labor from fabricators, the cheaper. With cabinets, if you’re on a budget, it’s always better to go with laminate finishes rather than lacquer finishes or veneers, which are more expensive.
Where should you splurge?
Splurge on a high quality cabinet with high-end quality hinges, and on a good faucet, which lasts forever in the kitchen. Sometimes clients go to big chains to buy kitchen cabinets and discover that after one or two years, the laminate is open or cracked. Instead, go with a European or Canadian manufacturer, and be sure it is quality. It is going to be more expensive that the big-chain cabinets for sure, but always trust manufacturers that have been manufacturing cabinets for more than 50 years.
What is trending in kitchens for 2016?
Working with some of the top architects in the city, we find that copper finish is a big trend for 2016 in hoods, door and drawer frames, and door and drawer fronts. Mixing copper in shiny finish with a brushed finish is also in style. East Coast Home + Design
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DEANE Peter Deane deaneinc.com Deane Kitchens has been in business for over 50 years. What would you say is your recipe for success?
Our recipe for success over the course of 50 years has been our commitment to our mission statement: “The Deane family honors its legacy by providing the highestquality custom cabinetry, innovative and compelling interior design, superior craftsmanship and outstanding customer service.”
When clients come to you, what are their initial wants and needs for a kitchen?
What makes our profession so stimulating is that each client and project has unique objectives. The most consistent request of our clients is sound design that supports their objectives and lifestyle.
How do science, art and technology play a big part in today’s kitchen?
The combination of these three disciplines is very apparent in the introduction of many new appliances. These new products provide a variety of cooking options (steam ovens, induction cooktops and speed ovens) and offer a variety of models to suit specific design objectives.
Could you please tell us about some fun materials you would love to use - or have used - in a kitchen or bath?
The design industry continues to introduce new products and reintroduce products we have seen over the last few decades, which provides our clients with tremendous options. Fumed finishes and stainless-steel doors with a variety of finishes and textures are just a few examples of what we display in our showrooms.
What should be the focus for someone on a budget?
Be honest. When you work with a professional, the best way to achieve your objective is to create a budget so everyone involved has a common goal to work towards, which eliminates surprises and regrets. 16
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WHEELOCK DESIGN | Chuck Wheelock chuckwheelock.com
Left page: Coastal Contemporary Right page: Norge Connecticut
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Could you please tell us about the designs of these two kitchens? Coastal Contemporary: The large, three-sided, multifunction island has a breakfast bar, desk and prep sink. A café kitchen has a Miele coffeemaker and Sub-Zero integrated refrigerator drawers, with small appliances hidden behind lift-up “aircraft doors.” Norge Connecticut: The white flat-slab panel fronts contrast beautifully with the natural oak island, modern furnishings and stainless-steel appliances. The contrast of open shelving and closed cabinet fronts, against the cool color and warmth of the wood, gives this kitchen a pleasing modern edge.
What were the clients’ goals for their kitchen designs?
Coastal Contemporary kitchen was about creating a contemporary and traditional kitchen design that took advantage of the open floor plan and water views, while creating flow to the outdoor patio and adjoining living areas. For Norge Connecticut, the international style of our client meets sophisticated Scandinavian inspiration, contemporary design and fine furniture.
You just redesigned your showroom. Could you please tell us about that?
We are introducing a complete design experience studio for clients to feel welcome when they walk through our door. They will see firsthand the latest trends in color/texture/materials that are happening in the design industry, learn more about appliances that are part of our displays, and have the unique opportunity to shop our collection of curated fine home accessories and furniture. We will also be hosting events throughout the year to educate and inspire people in our community, whether it be a seasonal wine-tasting, cooking demonstrations or simply classes to learn more about industry trends and manufacturer offerings. We will also feature three new design concepts that will be displayed: The Three-Color Kitchen, The Textured Kitchen and our Steel Glass Collection. We have partnered with appliance manufacturers to feature professional cookware from BlueStar, Miele, Sub-Zero, Wolf, Perlick and U-Line, and will offer a retail area focused on a curated collection of luxury home goods and accessories. The overall atmosphere is a place where ideas and creativity flow to create distinctive designs that complement a client’s interests and lifestyle.
Name three things you would like to use in a kitchen project this year.
Our new exclusive “Larchmont” door style in mahogany with the Wheelock Porch Swing™ finish; silicon-bronze, hammered metal doors; and brushed brass faucets.
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KLAFFS Allison and Joe Passero klaffs.com Could you please tell us about the design choices you made with your home kitchen, and how the bar plays into your overall concept?
My design choices were based on the architecture of our 1950s home: a simplistic door style with modern hardware, stainless-steel appliances, large-format floor tiles looking like terrazzo. We entertain and previously had a kitchen table we never used. The house did not have a bar and we live in the kitchen, so it has become the entertaining center of our home, where all our guests can participate in preparing the meals. We also added a television and a music system to the bar.
Can you please tell us how you incorporated the two styles?
My wife, Allison, loves a feminine look and always wanted her own dressing table. I prefer a cleaner, more contemporary feel on my side, so we made it simpler with all the bells and whistles for a man, in20
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cluding a TV in the mirror. We were lucky to be able to create a separate room for her and for me.
What would you like to see more of in kitchen design this year?
Wood cabinets are coming back in a big way: exotic species of woods, simple door designs that allow the beauty of the grain to come through, and less on the wood-front appliances. Appliances are starting to look so beautiful; why hide them with panels?
Consumers still play it safe with a white kitchen. What would you suggest to add some dimension and/or color?
Certainly with a white kitchen you need some depth and color. Porcelain floor tiles are available today in so many fabulous sizes, colors and textures. An interesting backsplash of color and texture works well to bring a design flair. Using oversized hardware on the cabinets is also a great way to create some depth. Always go to the extreme in the lighting for a kitchen. LED is huge today, but the lighting over an island will help create a focal point and an immediate impact.
Technology has come a long way; what are you seeing consumers integrating?
We’re seeing lighting control systems and appliances that can be controlled from smart devices. But the biggest advance is in lighting controls and LED lighting for the entire space: recessed, under-cabinet, interiors of cabinets and decorative fixtures.
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CLEAN DESIGN PARTNERS Claire Paquin | cleandesignpartners.com
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Would you say that the name of your company - Clean Design - best describes your design aesthetic?
We strive for simple, fresh and beautiful spaces that are uncluttered and understated. We like to design contemporary and youthful interiors. I think the word “clean” epitomizes everything we do—from our custom upholstery designs to our crisp color schemes. I specifically decided not to name my company Claire Paquin Interiors. I want to attract a specific type of client with my business name, and make those clients feel confident that they are hiring a firm that understands their goals and vision. This also allows the client and my team to feel more connected to the business, because it’s not all about me. Design is a collaborative process, and I felt the name should encourage and engender that shared experience.
What is the best “tool” to add dimension in an allwhite kitchen?
In an all-white kitchen, it is very important that the design doesn’t feel flat. I have done many all-white kitchens recently, where the main components are white cabinets and white quartz counters. In order for the design to be successful, it is paramount to add depth to the ancillary elements. I love adding a backsplash that has some textural interest, or using a grayish white marble like Carrara Gioia or Calacatta Gold. These still read substantially “ white” and airy, yet have more interest than a flat white subway tile. Hardware is also an excellent way to add dimension to an all-white kitchen: polished nickel pops beautifully against a pure white foundation and adds a touch of warmth to the cooler white palette. Lastly, the addition of a pop of color can allow all the main white elements to shine; you can add color in the lighting, accessories, art and window treatments. Remember that a white kitchen doesn’t have to be only white!
What is the most common mistake made in kitchens?
Awkward layouts are a common mistake. There is usually an optimal arrangement for the kitchen cabinetry and appliances, which a professional designer can help reveal. The design has to succeed functionally and aesthetically. Another common mistake is to add too many fancy details. Kitchens are probably the most expensive renovation homeowners will undertake, and if they insist on trendy details in the cabinetry or countertops, they will regret those decisions in the end. I often have clients who want to redo their cabinets to eliminate objectionable details like fluted columns, overly decorative moldings or glazed finishes that were popular years ago. The simpler you keep the design, the more classic and enduring your kitchen will be.
Name three things you would like to see integrated into the kitchen.
Assuming space is not an issue, I would love to design a walk-in pantry, message center and breakfast nook in every kitchen! A walk-in pantry is a luxury that allows you to easily arrange all of your food. It can also be a great place to store items that are used infrequently, like a blender,
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crockpot or extra coffee maker for hosting a large gathering. I recently designed a walk-in pantry that included a separate broom and cleaning closet within it—this is the ultimate in organization! A message center is my answer to the kitchen desk that used to be so prevalent. With kitchens getting much bigger these days, there’s usually no need to have an additional place to sit down to sort papers and mail. Stools at islands and peninsulas are becoming de rigueur, but most people still keep a phone in the kitchen and do their day-to-day organization here. Instead of designing desks, I always include what I call a “message center.” This typically has a higher counter that’s comfortable to stand at with tons of drawers for easy storage below. It’s a great place for managing all the papers that come into the house. I often include cubbies for a simple filing system behind an upper cabinet to keep the mess out of site. Lastly, it’s wonderful to include an eat-in area if space allows. Whether it is a built-in banquette or a large table that can also host guests, a casual place for the family to eat and hang out together is ideal. 26
Often these spaces are used not only for eating, but also for homework, arts and crafts, and family game night.
Is the “ work triangle” still effective in designing a kitchen? .
To be honest, I really think this concept is becoming less relevant. With kitchens expanding in size as clients incorporate more living into the kitchen, the work triangle of the past is overrated. The fact is, even if you establish a perfect work triangle in today ’s kitchen, the walk from the sink to the stove to the fridge may be more cumbersome given the sheer distance you have to cover to get to each area. In general, I still tend to lay out kitchens in this way, but it’s more for aesthetic reasons and functional “balance” rather than to achieve the perfect work triangle. I don’t like to overload any wall with too many appliances or functions. That said, I don’t think my clients mind walking further to get from their fridge to their stove or sink, since they have such luxuriously large kitchens!
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LEGACY BUILDERS | Chris Yaroscak | Tom Yaroscak
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Please tell us a little bit about the design aesthetic in the bathroom.
Legacy Construction Northeast LLC was pleased to work with Carol Kurth, FAIA, to complete this project utilizing bold forms and a palette of snow-white stone and natural walnut wood details to create a crisp, clean, spa-like bath suite. Kurth and her team designed a minimalist serene environment as a backdrop for her client’s master suite. Merging two existing Old World bathrooms into one fresh, new modern spa bath was part of a larger transformation of the 8,000-square-foot house also completed by both Legacy Construction and Carol Kurth Architecture, PC.
What line of cabinetry did you use in this project?
The cabinetry and custom millwork were designed by Carol Kurth Architecture and custom-made by Peter’s Carpentry. They were finished on site with Hollandlac brilliant high-performance paint, which possesses a mirror-like luminescence.
Were there any obstacles to overcome during the construction process?
The main floor in this bath is made up of 12 x 24 Glassos tile. This material is very challenging to work with due to its nature, being from crystalized glass. Miter cuts need to be made with absolute precision, so as to not shatter the material. The interlocking pattern was especially difficult, as this had to be cut off site and transported to the site for installation.
Tell us about the products used in the bath.
A custom double-trough sink was fabricated from milky translucent Corian and is embellished with a walnut accessories tray divider. Wallmounted faucets with customized back plates by Dornbracht give this room a clean-lined aesthetic. The luxurious two-person shower features a concealed linear drain and multiple rainheads. The huge one, a recessed multifunction rainhead by Dornbracht, is flanked by suspended Hansgrohe mini rain showerheads. The bathing area has a modern, freestanding tub by Wetstyle, and is sculpturally and strategically positioned to maximize views to the lush landscaping and pond beyond. Separate zones are delineated for washing, bathing, showering and dressing. The rich walnut ceiling defines the washing area and is playfully accented by layered tiles of Thassos stone - rough like sugar cubes, smooth like ice. The wall tile wraps around to the floor to the makeup station on the opposite side; the ceiling follows the wrap in planks of walnut with recessed square lighting. “Her” dressing suite is accessed up a custom-designed, stainlesssteel-railed staircase. “His” dressing area is part of the bath suite in a zone adjacent to his side of the bedroom, for quick exit to work in the morning. Built-in window seats, armoire-like cabinetry and display storage space are all coordinated in white gloss lacquer and walnut for a minimalist aesthetic. Other striking features include customdesigned cabinetry fabricated in white high-gloss lacquer, window seats framing outside views, and a separate alcove for toilet and bidet with a built-in niche for reading materials. A Romeo & Juliet balcony with French glass doors overlooks the verdant landscape—a tranquil setting for this refined, modern transformation. East Coast Home + Design
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In the Field
The Home Construction Puzzle: Making It Green Story by Judith Martin | Photography by Phillip Ennis
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ea had a folder that was bulging with notes and photos of her favorite luxurious designs and rooms, and more items tagged on Houzz and Pinterest. She and Eric just closed on a long-coveted house that needed TLC and some expansion to fit their needs. The next step was to hire an architect and designer to pull it all together. The project was also a chance for Lea and Eric Medow of Rye to fulfill another dream: a truly green home; a new home that would be healthy for the whole family as well as comfortable and energy efficient to benefit the environment and save operating costs. They just weren’t quite sure how to achieve it. So they added Judy Martin of Green Home Consulting to the design team, unique, independent experts in incorporating green elements into homes under construction to achieve goals like increased energy efficiency, low toxicity from building materials and pure water without giving up the height of luxury. Judy pointed out that the true heart of the home is in the most critical operating systems that make it more than a pretty box, keeping you warm in winter or giving you lots of hot water, all without sky high utility bills. The reality is, whether or not you are a jigsaw puzzle aficionado, constructing a home is like putting together a puzzle. Each choice is part of the framework and, once in place, determines how the next piece will fit. The first piece is chosen and then the rest of the pieces are methodically put together. The key is to make the right choice for that first
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piece and then recognize these inter- relationships so you achieve your “green” goals without blowing the construction budget. These choices will affect the life-long performance of the home and the comfort of the family that lives there. Lea and Eric loved the bones of their new home and wanted to honor its 1920s era Colonial roots, but it was drafty, had an ancient steam heating system, lots of asbestos and no central air conditioning. The windows didn’t work and they doubted there was much, if any, insulation in the walls. “Lea and Eric were keen to be absolutely as green as possible but needed help making the best choices and fitting it all together”, explained Judy Martin, Green Home Consulting’s founder and President. “Lea had done a lot of reading about green homes but it can be overwhelming to try to identify the most important elements and then the pieces that flow from those early choices.” She appreciated Judy ’s close attention to the “green” details as well as her willingness to suggest “shades of green” in finishing details where Lea wanted to achieve a certain look. While asbestos remediation got underway and some of the demolition began, Judy met with Lea and the design and construction teams. The first order of business was Green Home Consulting’s recommendations on insulation choices and its placement. The US Department of Energy says the goal is to “Build Tight, Ventilate Right”. Many homeowners think building a tight home is unhealthy and end up with drafty, uncomfortable houses. The goal is to make the home as airtight as possible but to add ven-
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tilation systems so that controlled fresh air is always moving through the home to minimize the impact on energy efficiency, optimize humidity and to minimize indoor pollutants. Judy recommended non-toxic, high performing insulation choices like dense packed cellulose and mineral wool. She also focused the team’s attention on exactly where the insulation should be placed for the best “building envelope” based on thermodynamic principles involving hot air movement, solar heat gain, and thermal bridging. Another key puzzle piece in the building envelope is the choice and design of new windows—fixed versus casement versus double hung, solar gain and u-values. In a house with lots of large windows, the heat gain and loss is significantly affected. Window locations also affect whether lighting must be used in the daytime.
eral benefits like quiet operation and long equipment life. Currently substantial Federal tax credits are available to help pay for the systems. It’s also important to keep in mind that although any one piece of the puzzle may be a little more expensive than traditional choices, the cost may be offset by something else. By installing high performance insulation in the right places, Lea and Eric reduced their demand for both heating and cooling. The heat generated by their system would be held in their home for longer in winter and, in the summer, less heat and humidity would seep into their house from outdoors. Lea and Eric’s high performance building envelope enabled them to correctly size (rather than oversize) their geothermal system, at a savings. Plus, operating costs will be reduced for years to come.
High efficiency HVAC systems, whether Once the tightest and best insulated roof, Judith Martin geothermal or fossil fuel based, enable walls and basement were achieved, it was time to consider the heating, cooling and ventilation system, or homeowners to choose high efficiency hot water generation, the HVAC. Here in the Northeast, more energy is used for heating next puzzle piece and the second highest use of energy in a home. and cooling than any other home energy use. And with our long Traditional designs waste 50 cents of every dollar spent to gencold season, the choice of heating system is key. Lea and Eric erate hot water, but high efficiency one’s may waste as little as wanted a high efficiency system and Judy suggested they consid- 5 cents. Lea and Eric’s geothermal system has an extra piece of er geothermal, the most energy efficient system, which has sev- equipment that enables them to create hot water essentially for East Coast Home + Design
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free whenever the air conditioning is running, a worthwhile investment for a family. By reducing electricity demands with efficient systems, LED lighting and Energy Star appliances, another piece of the puzzle fell into place and Lea and Eric could fulfill their dream of generating as much of their remaining electrical usage as possible by installing solar. Current technology permitted five photovoltaic (PV) arrays on various roof surfaces across the back of the house, none of which were visible from the street. Solar PV also nicely complements the electrical needs of a geothermal system. A tight home with non-toxic insulation was a strong beginning to creating the non-toxic indoor environment Lea and Eric wanted for their young family. As the job progressed, many other green building materials were selected from drywall to skim coat plaster to the carpeting in the basement. The whole house Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) system efficiently keeps fresh air flowing throughout but Lea and Eric helped along the indoor air quality by choosing as many green building materials as possible. Lea and Eric and their two young daughters have been enjoying their new home for over a year now and could not be happier or more proud of the outcome. Their puzzle was beautifully constructed and the result is a luxurious and comfortable home that operates very efficiently.
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Resources Judy Martin, President Green Home Consulting 411 Theodore Fremd Avenue Suite 206 South Rye, NY 10580 914.967.2956 greenhomeswestchester.com Paul Shainberg Architect 43 Purchase Street Rye, NY 10580 914.967.3474 shainbergarchitects.com S-B Long Interiors Greenwich, CT 203.769.1030 sblonginteriors.com H & Y Construction 831 Federal Road Brookfield, CT 06804 203.775.2246 hyconstruction.com
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Adjanta by Alexander Calder (1974) is expertly showcased in the foyer, to be seen from the oak-paneled dining room. Glimpses of the piece can be caught from the living room and front door, as well. Right: The blue-green palette of the design works well in the oak-paneled dining room, where a Joseph Jeup buffet provides some contrast.
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Central Park Perfection A Contemporary Retreat for a Family of Six Story by Maria Brown | Photography by Robert Benson
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Balloon Race by Robert C. Jackson is a colorful surprise in the den.
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A second TV room offers plenty of seating (Holly Hunt) for friends, with Great Plains and Kravet pillows.
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fter Charles Haver and Stewart Skolnick (Haver & Skolnick Architects) brought to life their client’s dream country estate in Connecticut, it was only natural that the firm be contracted again to provide the couple’s New York City apartment with a completely new look. “They found the Connecticut house so comfortable that they started to look around their apartment in New York City and thought, Maybe we can do better here,” Haver explains.
of quiet greens and blues to unify the space throughout. “I think we caught the couple a little off-guard,” says Skolnick. “But they’re very open, so they agreed to it—and love it now.”
“The Connecticut home is very traditional,” Skolnick adds, “so they wanted to switch to clean and contemporary in the apartment. Since they already had a collection of modern art and glass, we made that the starting point for this design.” And in just two short months, the pair turned this duplex apartment into a serene retreat for a family of six.
Besides employing a neutral wall color and great lighting to feature the art collection, the designers expertly positioned each piece so it can be seen in the room where it hangs, as well as the next room. When the redesign was complete, the clients remarked on how much more they appreciated their art collection. Even though all the paintings had previously been hanging in the space, their prior locations and the deeply saturated wall colors often left them overlooked.
The 1907 Beaux-Arts building overlooking Central Park contains 11 rooms, and includes an arcaded carriage entrance turned private gym. To begin the project, Haver and Skolnick spent about a week studying the natural light in the apartment, cataloging the art collection and thinking about color. Then they met with the client to discuss the plan: preserve the architecture of the shell, but neutralize its influence with a cream tone in such a way as to accentuate the contemporary furniture and artwork within. Additionally, use a single-color palette
According to Haver, “The key word is ‘simplifying.’ We just wanted to keep the apartment quiet. There was so much going on with the architectural detail in most of the rooms, you didn’t have to do too much. Plus, when you’re in New York City, you’re bombarded with visual stimuli.”
Organization would be another key to the redesign. During the Connecticut project, the designers looked at the family’s needs in each room and took care to customize the spaces to their lifestyle. While the end results couldn’t be more different from a design perspective, in this way the Connecticut and New York projects were similar. “Interiors have to function,” Skolnick says. “They have to serve their inhabitants.” Custom drawer inserts and dresser-top trays are just East Coast Home + Design
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Holly Hunt sofas and tables are complemented by Troscan side chairs.
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Kravet window-shade fabric maintains the neutrality of the walls without obscuring views of Central Park or Charmion von Wiegand’s The Kundalini Lotus.
some of the organizational features employed in this thoughtful design. With the plan in place, Haver and Skolnick took over the apartment in mid-June as the client set off for summer vacation at the Connecticut house. The family had tagged items they wished to keep—some of which was transferred to Connecticut—and the rest was given away. The designers selected everything, including furniture, light fixtures, dishes and bathroom accessories. Thanks to the designers’ long working relationship with the client (the Connecticut estate took four years to complete), Haver explains, “We showed them all the big items, but when it came down to the little details, they trusted us to fill in the gaps. We had been working with them for so many years that we had an understanding of their preferences, and they had a trust factor with us.” Immediately upon entering the apartment through the original metal and glass door and arched threshold, one is greeted by a spectacular chandelier (Ochre) over a Gregorius Pineo table in the foyer. While this fixture is dramatic, it still provides the soft lighting necessary to enjoy the artwork. The foyer is a hub for this level of the home, with doorways opening into the living room, family room and dining room. East Coast Home + Design
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A painting by Theodore Roszak hangs in the family room above a Holly Hunt sofa large enough for the whole family.
With views of Central Park West, the living room is an excellent example of how the existing architecture, such as the ceiling medallion and intricate molding around windows and fireplace, works in harmony with the modern furnishings. The warm cream tone allows the handblown Murano glass and paintings to be fully appreciated. The first in a series of custom-designed rugs from Beyond Borders by Holly Hunt is also found in the living room. The entire family helped select the rugs, each featuring its own unique design but fitting within the overall scheme. “Some are quiet, like in the master bedroom, and some are really wild, like in the kids’ bedrooms. It’s really fun,” says Skolnick. Aside from the chandelier in the entryway, the lighting fixtures are all from Holly Hunt’s Kevin Reilly collection, again contributing to the overall scheme without detracting from the art. Wooden pocket doors separate the living room and family room. The carpet, fabrics and lighting are duplicated here, so that the rooms 48
can serve as one large room when the doors are opened. In the family room, electronics are hidden in the Joseph Jeup credenza that features convex brushed-metal panels. The natural oak wood paneling in the dining room presented a bit of a challenge, but the blue palette proved to be an excellent choice here as well. A plaster wall panel is the perfect way to feature Benjamin Benno’s Guitar and Fruit Bowl, and glassware by Simon Pearce accentuates the space. Silver is protected by a series of four custom, feltlined drawers in an oak built-in under the window that also houses the radiator. The designers freshened up the kitchen and bathrooms while still preserving functionality. In the kitchen, Holly Hunt chairs surround the Gregorius Pineo table set with glassware and china by Simon Pearce. The master bathroom features white marble, thought to be original to the building. The cream paint color is continued here, as well as a few
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The family room is a prime example of perfect placement. Here, the von Wiegand and Blanche Lazell’s Red and Yellow are on display, complemented by Murano glass in similar colors.
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The master retreat offers a subtle juxtaposition of lines and curves. (Bedside chest by Joseph Jeup)
accessories offering the same pop of color that art and glass do elsewhere. “The master bedroom is one of the most successful rooms, and we really love it,” Stewart says. The designers employ a variety of textures and patterns in the space. The linear pattern on the carpet, nightstand and bedding is offset by a solid, neutral headboard and an armchair by Troscan. The curvy, sculptural bronze table lamp (Therien Studio) is another subtle, yet intentional, contrast that brings awareness to the interior. Both husband and wife have custom-designed drawer inserts to accommodate neckties, cufflinks and jewelry. A Joseph Jeup chest boasts a custom insert to keep ties and cufflinks easily accessible.
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Of the custom-designed rugs, the liveliest one is found in the eldest daughter’s room—an energy echoed in her bedside
A custom insert in a Holly Hunt chest keeps jewelry organized and tangle-free.
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The Mattaliano bed as well as a bedside chest and side table by Holly Hunt are perfect for a sophisticated young lady.
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Both Tucker Robbins bedside chests contain drawers to house the client’s extensive bow-tie collection.
lamps by Porta Romana. The clear blown glass with amethyst bubbles attached incorporates her favorite color into the space, as do the lamp shades and accent pillows. Her substantial jewelry collection is well organized in another set of custom drawer inserts as well. Behind the Troscan armchair is a tackboard covered in fabric. In designing the children’s rooms, Haver and Skolnick remembered a feature of the apartment from their original survey: bulletin boards. Each child had one that was covered with awards or schoolwork or calendars. “We thought maybe somehow we can deal with this in an architectural way,” explains Haver. Since all the bedroom walls have molding that creates panels, in each child’s room they inserted fabriccovered corkboard to recreate that feature, giving them the opportunity to decorate and personalize the room the way they want. In the bedroom shared by twin boys, an entire wall serves as a tackboard covered in striped Kravet fabric to allow as much space as possible. The four years the designers spent working with the clients in Connecticut is reflected in how well they know the personalities and preferences of the children. In the oldest son’s room, they managed to incorporate his favorite color, orange, into the blue/green palette with a Holly Hunt chair in Great Plains leather and fabric. A 1960s mirror with sculptural animal figures and a Porta Romana blown glass lamp mimicking piled rocks evoke images of a safari, as does the zebra striped rug. With a primitive-looking dresser sculpture and heavy, carved oak furniture, the room is very masculine and natural. Orange leather valet trays offer a place to drop sunglasses, change and other pocket flotsam at the end of a busy day. On the upper floor, another TV room is furnished similarly to the one off the living room downstairs. Both spaces are mainly for the 52
kids to gather with friends, watch television or play video games. Since four active children accumulate a lot of trophies, books, DVDs and games, Holly Hunt bookcases are available in both rooms to keep those items tidy. Shortly after the project was completed, a space became available on the ground floor of the building, which the client hoped to acquire for use as a private gym. Most recently a separate apartment, the room was originally an open-arcade carriage drop-off when the building was built. Remaining was the beautiful glass-tiled ceiling. Since the architectural lighting and herringbone flooring were existing, Haver and Skolnick again kept the walls neutral to accentuate the ceiling. They assisted the client in selecting the gym equipment and helped lay out the space. The family returned to their home in mid-August, just two short months after handing over the keys. “We were in the elevator going down as they were coming up!” Charles says. “We were hoping to get out of there,” Stewart adds with a laugh, “but they wanted us to come up and give them the tour. And they were delighted!” Resources Haver & Skolnick Architects Charles Haver Stewart Skolnick 3 Southbury Road Roxbury, CT 06783 860.354.1031 haverskolnickarchitects.com
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A private gym offers space for cardio, weight training and yoga with equipment by East Gym Source. (Clock:+Restoration Coast Home Design Hardware) 53
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Seaclusion
A Greenwich Couple Designs a Family Retreat in Jamaica Story by Christine Benton | Photography by Nigel Lord
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eaclusion is an enchanting villa with its own beach, situated on three acres of oceanfront on the grounds of the Tryall Club resort in Jamaica. This dream house belongs to a Connecticut couple with children who enjoy travelling and love everything about the ocean: the sight of it, the breathing of salt-laden air and the sound of lapping waves, all of which provide an instant feeling of peace. At Seaclusion the family doesn’t have to try to relax; relaxing requires no effort at all. When looking for a getaway home outside the U.S., the family wanted to be able to escape to a world that would change the beat of their everyday lives. As they considered different locations, they found that Jamaica had immediate appeal. Beginning their search when they had one young child, the couple discovered there were many flight options to this Caribbean paradise that would accommodate their youngster’s schedule. They could quickly and easily escape the humidity of an East Coast summer or the
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The turquoise waters of the infinity pool surrounded by tropical greenery.
colder climes of winter, and soon be basking in the fabulous, balmy Jamaican climate.
ing facilities for golf and tennis with a stylish lifestyle on 2,200 acres of a beautiful natural environment.
The island proved to be the perfect location for enjoying real family time together. It is a place to relax and not spend time running about, trying to fit all they wish to do in one trip, because everything they want is in one unique place. “We have time to keep dipping our feet in different ponds,” said the wife. They can also enjoy a different cultural experience, including authentic Jamaican food.
The heart of the property, which extends from the ocean to the Hanover Hills, is an early 19th-century “Great House.” The beach is right there, a golf course is within walking distance, and a short ride in a golf cart leads to the spa, gym, boutique, tennis courts and kids’ club, which offers activities for children.
Friends who visited Jamaica regularly highly recommended that the family check out the Tryall Club, located west of Montego Bay in Hanover Parish. Established in 1959, the club blends world-class sport-
On their first visit to the Tryall, the couple discovered that the resort also provides sweet, well-trained child-care personnel. They were able to enjoy a relaxing vacation with their child without worry or scheduling concerns. It was an easy decision for them to buy a home on the East Coast Home + Design
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The home is a continuous flow of open space with high-pitched ceilings that continually help circulate the ocean breeze, yet the arrangement of bedrooms provides space for privacy.
The interior designer was Sue Williams, a native and resident of Jamaica, who was completely in sync with what the family wanted to achieve. grounds of the club. After purchasing the villa, the owners stayed faithful to the beautiful existing Jamaican architecture but expanded it so they could see the beautiful turquoise water of the Caribbean from almost anywhere in the house. And though the sea invades the home, it does not flood it—it’s the Jamaican light that accomplishes that. And the quality of that light is stunning—pure and clear by day, bathed in honey by late afternoon and glittery at cocktail hour when the sun sets. Seaclusion is the perfect name for this residence, situated in a beautiful environment and the epitome of a place to wind down. The home is a continuous flow of open space with high-pitched ceilings that continually help circulate the ocean breeze, yet the arrangement of bedrooms provides space for privacy. Outside are two swimming pools (one of which is heated) and an herb garden. Just across the lane from Seaclusion is Rum Punch, a small, self-contained oasis that mirrors the architecture and décor of the main house and is bordered by a garden in many variations of green. Here, guests can enjoy privacy yet also join the family for beach living, meals and entertainment. 60
Upon entering Seaclusion, you are immediately struck by the expansive flow of living space. A media room is to the right, and straight ahead is a perfect-square sitting room. Fold back the louvered doors, and you can dine on the covered veranda. The dining room table sits beneath two white coral chandeliers. Behind the table is a small sitting space with a bar, the rear wall of which is glass that magically bounces the sea’s reflection around the room. The ambience is tranquil, celebrating Jamaican craftsmanship and the creative blending of house, sky and ocean. The house features seven crisp white air-conditioned bedrooms (including two in Rum Punch), with bed linen that invites a comfortable night’s sleep. Inside the main house is a master suite with a large bedroom containing a king-size bed, an indoor sitting room that extends outdoors, and a smaller bedroom with twin beds to accommodate children. All the bedrooms have louvered doors that can be folded back to bring the ocean, pool and garden inside. The interior designer was Sue Williams, a native and resident of Ja-
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Jamaican-style dining and the ocean are both on the menu.
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maica, who was completely in sync with what the family wanted to achieve. She was able to work closely with the wonderful local artisans while adding her own invaluable twists of creativity. Williams and her design team felt that a house in such a setting deserved nothing less than clean, fresh lines with no clutter. There are no busy, distracting visual areas: your eyes and your mind are at peace. The walls are unadorned and the furniture is comfortable with easyon-the-eye fabrics. To stay true to local Jamaican design, as many island artisans as possible were used, but there was also a nod to contemporary life, with comfortable, livable spaces and en suite bathrooms in all the bedrooms. And, in spite of the get-away-from-it-all ambience, it was important for the family to have all modern amenities, including flat-screen cable TV, Wi-Fi, iPod docks and a state-ofthe-art music system. Natural stone was used in the simply designed en suite bathrooms, which contain showers, white porcelain tubs and foldable louvered doors. Outside the master bedroom is an outdoor shower enabling a beachcomber to simply stroll across the lawn and rinse off accumulated sand and salt. The colors of nature suffuse the open design of the house—blues and greens from the sky, sea and plants. The ocean is the natural source of the design and color scheme. A clean, relaxed feeling was created with soft and comforting blues and greens, and a lot of soothing color overlay adds some complexity and interest. Some rooms even have a
little “pop” of color to provide a great contrast to the color of the ocean. Williams felt the furniture should reflect the style of the country, so much of it—such as tables, lamps and rugs—was made by Jamaican artisans. But rather than rely only on tradition and repetition from years past, designers worked closely with local craftspeople to create a whole new exciting furnishing vocabulary. Woods are variations of washed whites, creams and warm grays. Silvered coral lamp bases are framed in cedar, and support square linen shades or shades of beaten amethyst. Copper and jute are played with as well. Outside, the courtyard leads seamlessly to the infinity pool with its blue-green waters, which in turn merges smoothly with the sea. (You almost expect to see a Botticelli Aphrodite rising from the turquoise waters.) This pool is safely enjoyed by the children, who can also play on the private beach. Adults can swim or snorkel in the ocean and paddle out in a kayak. And, when time out is needed, a hammock is conveniently strung in the shade of a large tree. The property is maintained in tip-top condition by a staff of two housekeepers, two gardeners, a laundress and a chef, who cooks in a custom-built kitchen to supply gourmet meals for indoor and outdoor dining.
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The owners can imagine they’re bathing in the sea while soaking in the tub
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Though the owners visit annually, the number of times per year varies: one year they went six times for lengthy stays and long weekends. Having a home away from home provides them with spontaneity— they can just pick up and get on a plane. They especially like going in the summer months when there is no school and the weather is perfect for both activities and naps. 66
At this utopian oceanfront haven, the outdoors is indoors, and the only “disturbing” sounds are the lapping of the sea, the rustling of the trees in the wind, the songs of the birds and the piping of the tree frogs. “We started with a Jamaican home and created an even better one,” said the wife. “All of it began and ended with Jamaica in mind.”
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Resources Interior Designer Sue Williams SW Interior Design swinteriordesign.com
Tryall Club Sandy Bay, Montego Bay, Jamaica +1 876-956-5660 tryallclub.com
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A SUBURBAN BUNGALOW WITH CITY SENSIBILITIES Story by Maria Brown | Photography by Christopher Kiely
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A red brick fireplace was modernized with 12x24 taupe marble in a subway brick pattern, while valuable floor space was reclaimed by removing the hearth.
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When TJ Rutkowski and Lucas Zahas decided to move from New York City to Stamford, Connecticut, they hoped to find a home that felt spacious but wasn’t too large for two people (and two cats). When they spotted this bungalow, they managed to see beyond its then-outdated interior and envision the contemporary suburban home pictured here.
“I walked in and said, ‘What great bones,’” says Beth Krupa of Beth Krupa Interiors, the designer responsible for this amazing transformation. She knew she could provide the spacious feel her clients were looking for while maintaining a certain masculinity and city sensibil70
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ity. She also planned to connect the spaces so the home would flow from room to room. Such a major overhaul involved exposing some of those “bones,” however, so Krupa called upon Mallozzi Builders to get started. The first step was dealing with the wood paneling in the dining and living areas. “It was that very 1970s paneling,” says Krupa. “Now, it was painted white, so I’ll give them [the previous owners] that, but paneling is paneling and it needed to go!” There was also a red brick fireplace and hearth that protruded into the living area. By removing the hearth, valuable floor space was reclaimed, and the fireplace itself received a facelift for a more modern look.
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The next mission was the ceiling, which was quite low. Since outward expansion wasn’t an option, Krupa and her team went up, taking the ceiling to a 14-foot cathedral height. “It makes the space feel so much more grand and open,” she explains. The clients had the expertise to get involved in the project as well, and they installed their own sound system with speakers in the ceiling. “I love when a client wants to be involved and work together,” says Krupa. “It makes it a lot more personable, and it’s easier for me to get inspiration.” Krupa continued the concept of opening the space structurally by widening the staircases (both up and down to a lower level) and removing a heavy, flat carved baluster that appeared like a half wall behind the living room sofa. Since the columns are supportive and
couldn’t be removed, they were simply spaced wider and updated to complement the newel posts that tie into the casing of the rest of the house. The resulting effect, with a modern cable system, is much more contemporary and less awkward. Here, a very narrow doorway was also widened, contributing to the open floor plan. Pocket doors were added between the living area and den to provide an extra private area, if needed, for guests. But the spaces were formerly separated by floors not only of a different style and color, but also of different types, with engineered wood in the den and true hardwood in the rest of the space. On-site custom blending to match the stains erased this differentiation and maintains the flow from room to room, without the expense of new flooring in the den. East Coast Home + Design
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Narrow, awkward steps were widened to create a much more spacious feel. Here, artwork from the clients’ collection and a blue glass wrap by SkLo offer a bold, but unobtrusive, splash of color.
While she has always had a creative eye, Krupa came to interior design in 2009, after a degree in sociology and 17 years in the fashion industry. She finds joy in developing close relationships with her clients and meeting their unique preferences and needs through her designs. Structural changes continued in the master suite, where a little real estate was taken from the bedroom to accommodate the oversized shower in the bath. The clients also wanted a double vanity, and Krupa managed to incorporate a small window to allow for some natural light. In return, the bedroom was expanded upward by two feet in the form of a tray ceiling. Two small, outdated closets were demolished and replaced with an entire wall of closet space on a three-door-rails system, much more in keeping with the spacious closets found in modern master bedrooms. With these improvements complete, Krupa was able to turn her attention to the finer details of the design. In terms of color, she sought to keep the tones similar but change them slightly from space to space. The living room features a taupe palette, with grey hues in the dining room and beige in the back den. This defines the spaces a bit and keeps the design from being completely monochromatic, yet maintains the sense of flow she and the clients were aiming for. Drapery and rugs tie it all together, and artwork the client already owned adds a splash of color. 72
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Another unique feature in the public spaces is the color on the doors. “I took the darkest strain of color I could see in the floors and brought it up to the doors,” Krupa explains. This provides a dramatic pop to accentuate the nickel hardware in this space. “These little details really matter, especially when working with a small space.” Krupa creatively introduces a bit more color in the master bedroom. Lush Bordeaux drapery in Kravet fabric adds an element of drama and is complemented by Italian bedding in a neutralized deep lavender. The soft colors add something special to the master bedroom but still tie in with the rest of the home’s décor. Additionally, the wood furniture maintains the sense of masculinity but doesn’t overwhelm the space by being too heavy, hard or cold. The guest bedroom’s décor is inspired by the green view from the windows, which also look out on the pool. Woven grass window shades and a variety of textures lend a back-to-nature feel to the space. While the dressers are similar to those found in the master bedroom, incorporating an upholstered headboard keeps the rooms from being
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East Coast Home + Design
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carbon copies but still provides the desired flow and connection. Phase two of the project includes the kitchen and a lower level, which features an additional bedroom and entertaining space leading out to the freeform pool. Once phase two is complete, the couple is sure to have ample space to host their family, which is spread throughout the country. “It’s a great entertaining house, and they spotted it well!” Krupa says of her clients’ vision and insight in making the purchase. While she has always had a creative eye, Krupa came to interior design in 2009, after a degree in sociology and 17 years in the fashion industry. She finds joy in developing close relationships with her clients and meeting their unique preferences and needs through her designs. 74
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“No two clients are ever the same,” she says. “I really love what we do— transform people’s everyday lives.” Resources Beth Krupa Beth Krupa Interiors 135 Bedford Street Stamford, CT 06901 203.745.2129 bethkrupainteriors.com
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A small window was incorporated to allow natural light in the bathroom where the Klaffs vanity provides double sinks in a smaller space.
Lush Italian bedding and Bordeaux drapes in Kravet fabric make this master bedroom warm and inviting.
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Events
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Schwartz Design Showroom On Decmeber 3rd, East Coast Home + Design teamed up with Schwartz Design Showroom in Stamford. Guests were treated to mimosa’s and quiche while owner Alexis Varbero presented her finds from this years Highpoint market. Robin McGarry’s charity Sister Love, which supports ovarian cancer research, was also a highlight of the brunch. Robin’s innovative use for remenant fabric by creating beautiful totes were purchased by the interior designers in support of the charity. 1. Alexis Varbero of SDS conducts a presentation for the designer audience 2. Robin McGarry of Robin Mcgarry Interiors 3. Attendees enjoying Alexis’ presentation 4. Judy Zolt and Goeshe Staron of JD Staron 5. Angela Lowy with Ben and Barbara Block 6. Stacy Janna of JD Staron and Connie Cooper of Connie Cooper Designs 7. Lynn Breindel and Erica Vinelli of Lynn Breindel Interiors 76
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Designers Vignettes 1
2 Starting in February, each month a new interior designer will showcase their talents by creating a vignette to compliment the beautifully appointed artwork. The vignette will stay assembled for the month and we will be hosting a cocktail reception to celebrate. Please contact Shelley McCormick at shelley_mccormick@yahoo.com for more information and to schedule your month.
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1. Anna Nowak of Lions Paw and Julia Contacessi of Julia Contacessi Fine Art 2. Alexis Varbero of Schwartz Design Showroom, Debra Lipset of Debra Lipset Interiors and Jill Seraita of JD Staron 3. Leann Joseph, Shelley Mccormick, Alexis Varbero, Lollie Mathews and Donna Murtha 4. Lisa Stretton of Lisa Stretton Design and Guest 5. Angela Lowy of Grace Homestyle Design and Guest 6. Eileen Corbin of Eileen Corbin Interior Design, Linda Fontaine of Linda Fontaine Design and Alexis Varbero 7. Attendees enjoying Alexis’ presentation 8. Debra Lipset of Debra Lipset Interiors and Kip O’Brien 9. Andrea Romeo, Lollie Mathews and Rebecca Baglio 4 78
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Hidden Treasures
KITCHEN By Mick De Giulio
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rom famed American designer Mick De Giulio comes Kitchen, an extensive portfolio of his latest work. The book features the signature elements and finishes of his uber-luxurious kitchen interiors, along with a look at some of his designs that extend beyond the kitchen. His company, de Giulio kitchen design, founded in 1984, is based in Wilmette, Illinois, with an additional studio in LuxeHome in Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. In 2003, De Giulio was named a Kitchen and Bath Design Leader by Interior Design magazine, and in 2005, he was recognized by Kitchen and Bath Business magazine as one of the 50 most influen-
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tial people in the kitchen and bath industry over the last 50 years. De Giulio has been creating kitchens for distinctive residences throughout the United States and abroad for over 40 years. In addition to residential kitchen design, his body of work includes commercial projects and product design for companies such as SieMatic Gmbh, Kallista (a Kohler company), and Sub-Zero/Wolf. De Giulio’s work has been extensively featured internationally in leading design publications including Architectural Digest,Traditional Home, East Coast Home + Design, House Beautiful, Interior Design, Architecktur & Wohnen, and Ottagano.
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