DESIGN +DECOR
CONNECTICUT NEW JERSEY NEW YORK
THE 2020 DESIGN + DECOR SOURCE BOOK
$7.99 US/$8.99 CANADA
DISPLAY UNTIL 03/15/20
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The area’s best Interior Design firm. Skilled, creative, experienced, award-winning. Start creating your dream home today.
Lara Michelle.indd Front of Book.indd 2-3 10
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www.LaraMichelle.com | 914.939.5777 | info@LaraMichelle.com
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DESIGN +DECOR
CONNECTICUT NEW JERSEY NEW YORK
VOLUME 17 ISSUE 1 | 2020
28
Architecture: Modern Leaders
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Building: Build Tech
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Color: Choosing the Perfect Color
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Specialty Spaces: The Ultimate Office
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The Modern Bathroom: Creating Luxury
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The Smart Home: Living in the Future
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Outdoor Spaces: Intimate Landscapes
Story by Melanie N. Hanson
Story by Alder Gove
Story by Julie Carter-Moriva
Story by Julie Carter-Moriva
Story by Julie Carter-Moriva
Story by Alder Grove
Story by Alder Grove
DEPARTMENTS 22
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Editors Letter
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Profile
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DESIGN +DECOR
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Monaco Monaco, a waterjet mosaic shown in polished Dolomite, Carrara, Cornflower Glazed Basalto, and brushed Aluminum, is part of the VOLUME 16 17 ISSUE ISSUE 31 -- 2019 2020 VOLUME Liliane™ Collection by Caroline Beaupere for New Ravenna. Editor-in-Chief newravenna.com Editor-in-Chief
Matthew Matthew J.J. Kolk Kolk mattkolk@me.com mattkolk@me.com 203-820-1092 203-820-1092 Managing Managing Editor Editor James James Eagen Eagen
Contributing Contributing Writers Writers Lisa Gant, Susan Heller, Gersh, Deborah Brannon, Lisa Gant, SusanPam Heller, Alder Grove, KaitStelzer-Worth, Shea, AnastasiaKait Storer, Anna Wirth Storer Anna von Shea, Anastasia
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Contributing Contributing Photographers Photographers Sika is a deer specimen Jane Beiles, Michael rooted in Japan whose Jane Beiles, Michael Biondo, Biondo, Phillip Phillip Ennis, Ennis, Tria Tria Giovan, Giovan, John Gruen, Paul Johnson, Neil Landino, strength and elegance John Gruen, John Hannon, Paul Johnson, Neil Landino, Mark La Tim Rosa,Lee, TimDaniel Lee, Daniel Milstein, inspired Sika wingback chair. Mark La Rosa, Milstein, Janice Parker, Durston Striffler, most distinctive features Durston Saylor, Saylor, Debra Debra Somerville, Somerville, Eric EricThe Striffler, Jonathan of this wing chair are the Jonathan Wallen, Wallen, Woodruff/Brown Woodruff/Brown Photography Photography Copy Copy Editor Editor Elena Elena Serocki Serocki
button detailing in the inner back, the nailhead trim and the brass details of the arms. covethouse.eu
Graphic Graphic & & Web Web Design Design East East Coast Coast Home Home Publishing Publishing
Publisher Publisher Shelley Shelley E. E. McCormick McCormick sm@dd-mag.com sm@dd-mag.com 203-545-7091 203-545-7091 Account Manager Advertising Director Alessandra Flanagan Dante Golio af@dd-mag.com Account Managers Design + Decor Alessandra Flanagan 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Aileen Gardner Naples, Florida 34113 Joy Zurzolo Fax: 203-286-1850
Design + Decor 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Design + Decor is published six issues per year. To subscribe: www.dd-mag.com; Subscriptions: Naples, Florida 34113
one year, $28; two years, $50. Back issues can be purchased at www.dd-mag.com. For editorial inquiries: Editor, Design + Decor, 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 Naples, Florida 34113 or e-mail: mattkolk@me.com. For advertising inquiries: Please call Shelley McCormick at 203-545-7091. Reproduction whole or in partsix without is prohibited. projects described in this pubDesign + Decor is published issuespermission per year. To subscribe: All www.dd-mag.com; Subscriptions: lication are$28; for private, noncommercial use only. for commercial use or exploitation are one year, two years, $50. Back issues canNo berights purchased at www.dd-mag.com. For editogiven or implied. TheDesign opinions expressed writersCircle for articles by Design + Decor are rial inquiries: Editor, + Decor, 7485byInspira #1203published Naples, Florida 34113 or e-mail: not necessarily those of the mattkolk@me.com. For advertising inquiries: Please callmagazine. Shelley McCormick at 203-545-7091.
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Reproduction whole or in part without permission is prohibited. All projects described in this publication are for private, noncommercial Lapiaz use only. Sideboard No rights for commercial use or exploitation are given implied. Sideboard The opinions expressed by from writers one for articles published by Design + Decor are TheorLapiaz originates of Boca do Lobo’s iconic design not necessarily those of the magazine.
pieces. Based on the same aesthetic that created a legacy, the Lapiaz SideEAST COAST HOME PUBLISHING board takes exceptional design to a new realm. Consisting 7485 craftsmanship Inspira Circleand #1203 EASTLapiaz COAST HOMEinPUBLISHING of two individual modules, is finished polished stainless steel that Naples,the Florida 34113 7485 Inspira Circle #1203 portarys a perfect mirror, with a poplar root wood veneer interior. DD-MAG.COM Naples, Florida 34113 bocadolobo.com DD-MAG.COM
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EDITOR’S LETTER
W
hat a wonderful beginning to the year. The Economy is hitting new highs, unemployment is way down and our industry is booming. A great way to start 2020.
Now that daylight is getting longer, it is time to start to look into spring and the new projects that we have all been thinking about since last year. To help get your creative juices flowing, we have created our first Design + Decor Source Book. A feast of ultra creative individuals showcasing their wares and providing tips and information on what is to come in home design in this new decade.
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Choosing the right firm to create your “forever” home is a daunting task which can either be a pleasure or a nightmare. This guide is meant to assist you in your choice of who task with this enormous responsibility and ease your mind with your decision.
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Between our three publications: Design + Decor CT/NJ/NY, Design + Decor Southeast Florida and Design + Decor Southwest Florida, we are committed to showcasing the strongest firms on the east coast of the United States. We look forward to providing you information through both print and electronic platforms in a meaningful manner by being the innovators and trendsetters of our business. We look forward to sharing with our advertising partners one of our new offerings in the next few months that will greatly assist you in your marketing. It is very exciting and unique to our brand. More to come on that very soon.
Matthew Kolk
Enjoy,
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- Editor in Chief
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MODERN LEADERS
Architecture by: Cardello Architects
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AN ARCHITECTURAL REFLECTION ON THE MODERN MASTERS A smooth, clean line is deceptively masterful. When a shape is immaculate, the tiniest fault is all the more glaring, and inferior materials are out of the question. Story by Melanie N. Hanson
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Architecture by: Kathleen Poirier Architects
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e take for granted the elegant simplicity and pure expression of modern design, but the truth is that pioneers like Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Kahn and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe are responsible for a revolution that influences art and architecture to this day. Before Wright transformed Oak Park, Illinois, clients wanted opulent details in the vein of pilasters and medallions, which Kathleen Poirier of Kathleen Poirier Architects critiques as frivolous and deceptive. “In traditional architecture, we have crown moldings and base moldings to hide mistakes,” Kathleen says. “If you don’t have a perfect line, you just cover it up with a pretty molding. 30
In modern architecture, you don’t have that. Those lines have to be perfect and flow from room to room.” This notion of organic flow-through often associated with Wright appears in modern homes in the form of open spaces, unified design and environmental integration. Kathleen quotes Mies van der Rohe’s famous line, “Less is more.” She says, chuckling, “It isn’t just a cute thing for design students to repeat to each other. What he meant was you take away the extras—take away what doesn’t harmonize—until you get to the heart of what you want to express.”
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Architecture by: Cardello Architects
For this technique to work, building materials must be of top quality. Wright and Mies demanded the very best; Kahn, the youngest of the three, took that philosophy a step further and made the materials a focal point. His Philips Exeter Academy Library features concrete imprinted with bolts and wood grain from the form work used in pouring. Kathleen calls the registered historic landmark a favorite example of Kahn’s brutalism, referencing the concrete. “Sometimes we sand off all the lines that the form work made, but he always left that,” she says. “It was important to see what created the concrete itself.” Thus, every step of construction is visible forever. This sort of “rawness” gives the building an element of the natural, so to speak. David La Pierre and Robert Cardello of Cardello Archi32
tects, based in Westport and Greenwich, Connecticut, point out the link between Kahn’s brand of unprocessed aesthetics and Wright’s ideas about a structure’s interaction with nature, with its environment, and with the people who utilize the space. Robert mentions Wright’s best-known work, Fallingwater, which he calls “an iconic representation of the man’s intent to create organic architecture that lives comfortably in a natural environment.” He says of Wright, Kahn and Mies, “They were innovators in their time. They were doing things no one else was doing, which was why people took notice.” “And they had massive egos,” David adds. “They all had huge personalities and stuck to their convictions. They believed they could change people’s lives through architecture.”
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Architecture by: Kathleen Poirier Architects
From her office in Wilton, Connecticut, Kathleen agrees. “That’s a true modernist idea that it’s about the people inhabiting the space,” she says. “In the Renaissance, everything was highly ornate. It was to look at; it wasn’t necessarily for function.” In 1960 Kahn built the Salk Institute, a.k.a. San Diego’s Taj Mahal. He designed it to integrate with its surroundings and to stay cool in hot weather, with large openings for ventilation to pass through. In 2016 the Los Angeles Times marveled at how gracefully the building has aged and how it’s almost as though Kahn knew what the future would be. It seems they all knew. Mies created furniture so comfortable, so expertly designed, that many of his pieces are still in production today. Wright, toward the end of his life, began experimenting with what is now the latest trend in homebuilding: standardized, interlocking pieces. With no tools required, almost anyone can erect their own personalized home in a relatively short period. This method of construction makes for easy renovations and additions, and it could solve housing crises worldwide—which is 34
what Wright seems to have had in mind all those years ago. David believes these creators would all be pleased by such contemporary sensibilities, and they ’d be most interested in the latest materials. “Some of them are made from recycled materials, and some of them are completely new composites,” he says. While we’ll never know what the three architects would think of today ’s innovations, their ideas continue to thrive. Kathleen mentions I. M. Pei and Philip Johnson as having brought them into the 21st century. She sees it in large pane windows and the simple, undecorated shapes, as found in the works of Egyptian architect Shahira Fahmy. Robert and David agree that Mies’ sense of minimalism is still present in modern design in the form of sleek lines and contrasting colors. Robert specifically mentions Mies’ Seagram Building and its exposed structural elements as directly influencing the current industrial chic.
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Architecture by: Cardello Architects
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Architecture by: Cardello Architects
They both mention an admiration for Frank Gehry as an artistic descendant of the organic styles practiced by Wright and Kahn. “Gehry ’s pushing the envelope,” David says. “How light plays off of architecture, how it influences people, and how people interact with it. But any practicing architect has been influenced by these guys. It’s impossible not to be. You have to respect what they accomplished in their careers.” Resource: Cardello Architects Robert Cardello David La Pierre 60 Post Road East Westport, CT 06880 203.853.2524 Greenwich Office 6 West Putnam Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830 203).853.2524
Architecture by: Kathleen Poirier Architects
Kathleen Poirier Architects Kathleen Poirier 40 Twin Oak Lane Wilton, CT 06897 203.210.5199 kparchitects.com
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BUILD TECH
The Evolution of Innovation: Building Technologies of the Future An architect and a builder ponder the future of residential building technology. Design + DĂŠcor presents the most up-to-date trends for a new decade. Story by Alder Grove
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Home built by: Hobbs Inc.
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Architecture by: Stonewater Architecture + Interiors
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he technology involved in building design and construction has been evolving exponentially for at least 20 years. To learn about the latest innovations in building technology, methods, materials, products and systems, Design + Décor spoke with Michael Moritz, principal architect at Stonewater Architecture + Interiors, in Colonia, New Jersey, and Scott Hobbs, owner and project executive at the luxury homebuilding firm Hobbs, Inc., in New Canaan, Connecticut, whose team builds highend homes in Connecticut, New York City, New Jersey and the Hamptons. Virtual Understanding The recent proliferation of 3D design programs has helped project teams to better understand the architect’s design intent. Scott is passionate as he describes the enormous rewards of designers presenting their projects in three dimensions. “There’s a big benefit for builders on a complicated multilevel house,” he says. “It’s frequently challenging to figure out where all the elevation changes are, or where the tricky details could be when using only 2D drawings. But 3D plans very quickly allow the build team to get a firm grasp of what is being designed and where issues will come up.” Having built scores of residential projects, Scott knows that feasibility, estimating 40
and scheduling are all more accurate now that virtual models have taken over the industry. He’s also happy witnessing the ease with which owners can understand their projects when they view virtual fly-throughs and computer-generated perspectives. Clients get an early look at the inside of spaces, giving them a chance to see what’s being proposed and speak up if they want to tweak something. Not Your Grandmother ’s Insulation Insulation has improved dramatically and now takes center stage as a critical variable in the sustainability equation. “If a home is well insulated, then other factors can be optimized for energy efficiency,” says Michael. Heating and cooling loads are minimized when a house is appropriately draft stopped and has high insulation values. He stresses the importance of keeping the air conditioning and heating equipment inside the thermal envelope of the house. Michael has a strong preference for spray foam insulation at all exterior stud cavities, including walls, floors and roofs. Scott agrees that insulation is a crucial factor; he builds homes with a broad spectrum of insulation types, including spray foam and ultra-green wool products. “It’s funny to think that wool insulation is actually a high-tech product, but it is, thanks to the treatments that prevent bugs, pest infestations and other issues that a natural fiber material
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Home built by: Hobbs Inc.
might otherwise have,” Scott observes. A Clear View Windows with excellent thermal performance are also musthave components. Indeed, Michael sees the value in a combination package. “Without proper insulation, high-efficiency heating and cooling, and double- or triple-paned windows, you might as well not do any of it,” he says. Quality selections and installations in all three categories must be in effect for the greenest aspects to provide the best value for homeowners. Michael relies on several options to maximize the insulation of his homes. In addition to the spray-foamed wall, floor and roof cavities, he opts for mineral wool insulation on the interior of the stud wall and a continuous layer of “outsulation”—a rigid foam/engineered wood product—beyond the face of framing as the most cutting-edge solution for a tight thermal envelope. Breath of Fresh Air Another futuristic building technology that Michael relies upon is energy recovery ventilation (ERV)—mechanically assisted ventilation that is required to keep such tightly constructed modern homes breathing easy. Fresh air is introduced to the interior as stale air is exhausted to the outside. “Without 42
the exchange, houses end up with something like sick-building syndrome,” says Michael. “Negative pressure can result in the pilot in the basement boiler being snuffed out.” A 1,000-cubicfeet-per-minute fan in the kitchen can expel all the interior air without properly engineered makeup ventilation, while a welltuned ERV system keeps indoor air quality healthy. Green and Durable Scott notices the marketplace for green building materials has been maturing lately. “Most products are greener now than people could have even imagined 20 years ago,” he says. “They are also better.” Scott notes marked improvements in the quality and durability of flat roof membranes, wood-look flooring tiles, superior-quality windows and doors, and PVC trim pieces. Interior specifications, such as countertops and finishes, have boosted their recycled content and benefit from stiff competition between manufacturers. Michael agrees with Scott on the benefits of PVC trims, and takes it a step further to include a favorite siding material: A faux cedar shingle product, made of PVC molded precisely to mimic the variations in cedar shingles, outperforms the cedar shingles made of actual wood that are on the market today. When Michael needs a stable and beautiful exterior cladding with no to low maintenance, faux
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Architecture by: Stonewater Architecture + Interiors
shingles is his go-to selection. Details of Modern Life In Hobbs, Inc. projects, rainscreen technology is emerging prominently in houses that embody a progressive aesthetic. “There are a whole bunch of building products out there that allow for the building of ultracontemporary, sophisticated homes with minimalistic details,” says Scott. He is referring to excellent quality windows, rainscreen building assemblies and exterior cladding materials with dimensional stability that outperform wood. PVC siding and trims hold paint better, never rot and are not subject to shrinkage or expansion like the materials of yesteryear. The team at Stonewater Architecture + Interiors likes rainscreen waterproofing products, too, says Michael. “Rainscreen roll products allow a channel for water that has penetrated past the exterior siding to exit the wall assembly and keep it dry,” he explains. “It performs well and gets the water away from the building’s interior.” Many other new building technologies are also being utilized in high-end projects. Innovations like engineered lumber and smart home systems are nearly ubiquitous in new luxury home builds. Composite wood products, such as laminated strand lumber and its cousins, reduce the use of steel and its associat44
ed cost. Smart home options automate temperature fine-tuning and energy usage to the point where it’s a no-brainer to include them when seeking the best materials and methods for today ’s high-end homes. It’s illuminating and exciting to learn how professionals keep pushing the limits in building technologies. Resource: Hobbs Inc. Scott Hobbs 27 Grove Street New Canaan, CT 06840 203.966.0726 hobbsinc.com Stonewater Architecture + Interiors Michael Moritz 99 Morningside Road Colonia, NJ 07067 908.380.2496 stonewaterarch.com
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COLOR
Architecture by: Cardello Architects
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CREATING LIVING COLOR Design + Decor speaks to the industry experts on how to choose the perfect color for your space. Story by Julie Carter-Moriva | Photos provided by Curator Paints
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M
ove over, Living Coral, and make way for the new color on the block—Classic Blue. In December, the Pantone Color Institute announced Classic Blue as the Color of the Year for 2020, describing the shade as “reminiscent of the sky at dusk.” “The Color of the Year anticipates what’s going to happen next,” says Laurie Pressman, vice president at the Pantone Color Institute. “Color has always been an integral part of how a culture expresses the attitudes and emotions of the time.” Indeed, we are in for a year of intense expression due to global concerns, the upcoming presidential election and other issues, so perhaps a calming sea of blue is a wise choice. According to Laurie, the new color “offers the reassurance, confidence and connection that people may be searching for in an uncertain global milieu.” Just as our homes provide us with a place to retreat from the stress of daily life, the colors we choose can be valuable tools to help shield us from the chaos outside. To get a better idea of the impact color has on how we feel about our home environment, Design + Décor spoke with Rachel O’Connor, export director for General Paints, one of Ireland’s oldest paint companies. Last year General Paints launched the Curator color collection, a palette of 144 colors derived from native art and design in a collaboration with the Irish design community. Rachel asserts that, although General Paints does not rely on the Pantone Color of the Year to guide its design choices, the company develops custom colors that are often “inspired by shades of nature and the hues of Ireland.” She says, “Color in the home can serve as a powerful tool for self-expression and ultimately provide an environment of contentment for the homeowner.” Whether it is an accent wall featuring a bold color, or subtle calming shades found in accessories such as Design + Decor
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pillows and rugs, Rachel says that the trick is to find the right balance. Creating a statement with color is another popular way to personalize the home space. “People often think of a statement color as being bold, like emerald green,” says Rachel, “but soft hues or earth tones can also create a statement.” Haley Lord, color and design consultant for Rings End, a distributor of the Curator collection, adds, “The key to making a statement with color is to let that color stand on its own. I find accent walls are a great way to play with color and add a touch of your personality. Don’t be afraid to put a different color on the ceiling than what is on your walls, or to have a dark color on your trim and a lighter color on the walls. If you are feeling daring, do the same color on both your trim and walls for a classy, elegant look. I guarantee any houseguests you have will still be thinking about your space after they leave!” The request for a design focal point is another element in high demand from homeowners. “The focal point in a home is what the eye is drawn to when you walk in the room,” Haley explains. “If you have a gorgeous floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, try placing the furniture around it. Another trick is to use track or picture lighting to help you display artwork or shelving. Playing with light colors on the walls can help make your dark furniture stand out, and vice versa.” She also says homeowners should “remember that scale plays a part in the distribution of a room. You don’t want to have a lot of big pieces mixed in with items that are very small.” Rachel’s take on creating a focal point is based on the use of color
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and what she has been seeing as a relatively new trend in the United Kingdom. “Walls are the largest area to express your design vision, but don’t forget about the fifth wall—the ceiling,” she says. “Most people tend to think of a focal point like a fireplace or an art piece, and the right color can be used to create a beautiful complement to something you value in your surroundings. But recently we are also seeing customers choose the ceiling as the focal point by introducing a featured color.” Choosing colors for your home is as personal and meaningful as choosing your clothing. These choices affect how we feel, elicit moods and emotions, and reflect our personality. What a color evokes in one person may cause a completely different emotional response from someone else. For this reason, Rachel stresses it’s important for homeowners to be involved in determining colors that create harmony and the feeling they want to evoke in each space. This helps to establish choices for paint and determines whether colors will be most effective as a backdrop or as accents in furnishing or accessories. Whether it be the reassuring presence of Classic Blue or the Irish artisan-inspired palette of the Curator collection, we rely on colors as a visual language to create character, mood and harmony within our home. Laurie at the Pantone Color Institute sums it up nicely: “While technology races ahead, often overwhelming our human abil-
ity to process everything around us, it’s only natural that we gravitate toward colors that bring a sense of peace, clarity and even protection.” As we transition into a new era, let’s optimistically embrace a year of living color and colorful living. Resource: General Paints Rachel O’Connor +353.1.628.8224 curatorpaints.com Pantone Color Institute Laurie Pressman 590 Commerce Boulevard Carlstadt, NJ 07072 201.935.5500 pantone.com Rings End Haley Lord 181 West Avenue Darien, CT 06820 203.655.2525 ringsend.com Design + Decor
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SPECIALTY SPACES
WORKING OUR WAY BACK HOME Interior Designer Diane Durocher speaks with Design + Decor on how homeowners can create the perfect workspace in their home Story by Julie Carter-Moriva | Photos provided by Diane Durocher Interiors
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o r k ing from home is the ultimate goal for many who face a stressful daily commute or are simply tired of spending 40 or more hours a week under fluorescent lighting in a sterile office building. The work-from-home boom is a growing subset of today ’s workforce, whether a person freelances, works remotely for a company, or embraces a company ’s flexible workplace options. Recently, we’ve seen a marked increase in the number of employers who allow staffers to work some days at the company office and some from an employee’s homebased space. Employers have chosen to embrace this alternative to retain valuable employees. The high cost of office space is another factor that makes working from home a clearcut value for entrepreneurs who want to keep their bottom line in check. Whatever reason drives an individual to work from home, it’s clearly a trend that will not fade any time soon. There is more to creating a productive and comfortable work environment at home, however, than simply moving into the extra bedroom with a desk and a laptop. To get a better idea of what elements are important in creating an optimal home office space, we reached out to designer Diane Durocher of Diane Durocher Interiors, who discussed what is required to create a space that makes the workday effective, enjoyable and healthy. Diane shared some of the Design + Decor
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features she believes are “must-haves” when designing a dedicated home office space for her clients. “There is always a need for ample storage, task lighting, plenty of workspaces (desk and counter spaces), ergonomic seating and either a traditional or standing desk,” she says. “If space allows, a comfortable chair or sofa is a nice addition that provides a chance to step away from your desk for a moment to read or rest.” The designer also believes in including inspiring artwork, natural daylight, durable fabrics and ventilation in the form of an operable window or fan. From this master list of items that Diane has compiled, she recommends that clients pick and choose what’s necessary for their own personal comfort and needs. To make a home office a successful place to earn a living, it’s important that it not only be a comfortable space, but also have efficient and reliable tools. Over the last decade, major advancements in technology have made working remotely attractive to both employer and employee. Technology allows the modern home office to be more productive and better connected than ever before. When asked to share her thoughts about technology that makes working from home as effective as from the office, Diane refers to Google Docs. “It’s one of many programs that allow colleagues to collaborate while working remotely,” she says. Google Docs is one component of a suite of powerful online tools that allow people to create, collaborate and share their work, whether they ’re working from a beach chair in St. Lucia or from a home office
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in their yoga pants. Google’s slogan, “Show up, don’t set up,” refers to the ability of users to present full-blown AV presentations to groups without the hassle of wire connections and setups. Google Docs also provides the ability to share and edit documents in real time with others in the office or anywhere on the planet where there is an Internet connection. Other apps that provide similar options include Microsoft Office Online, Quip, OnlyOffice and Dropbox Paper. One common mistake Diane sees when people design a dedicated home office space is that they don’t devote sufficient time and thought in the initial planning stages. As a result, she says, “They often forget to plan for future growth.” Many possibilities need to be considered during the initial phase, such as: How often will you be working from home? Will there be clients, colleagues or bosses visiting the office? “The answers to these questions will provide a better idea of the space required and give insight into creating a design plan that adequately provides for current and future needs,” says Diana. Other details that need to be considered include “the orienta58
tion of the desk in regards to windows so they don’t cause an issue with glare,” says Diane, “and using operable window shades that will minimize glare.” It’s also important to determine whether other people will be using the space. “If kids or other family members will be utilizing the space, it may require additional storage,” she says. Diane points out that hiring a professional designer to create a plan for your home office has many benefits, including knowing what questions to ask. “Hire a designer who can help maximize the space you have by asking the right questions in all stages of your project,” she says. “A professional can help you access your options and incorporate your needs and wants into a workable design with the space you have available.” Some designers can even recommend quality subcontractors and make sure the project runs smoothly and is completed on time. The level of designer involvement in a project is completely up to the client. When you’re finished creating a personalized, comfortable and efficient workspace, you can make adjustments as your needs and wants change over time. But the real beauty lies in know-
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ing that when the alarm goes off in the morning, your commute will be measured by the time it takes to walk from your bedroom to your office, and the only traffic you’ll encounter is in front of the coffee pot. Resource: Diane Durocher Interiors Diane Durocher 375 S Central Avenue Ramsey, NJ 07446 201.825.3832 dianedurocherinteriors.com
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THE MODERN BATHROOM
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HOW TWO TRAILBLAZERS ARE MAKING BATHROOMS BOTH REGAL AND FUNCTIONAL
Julie Pagnozzi of D+D Homes and Peter Sciarretta of Hemingway Construction share their tips on creating the perfect luxury bathroom for today’s family. Story by Anna R Albright | Photos provided by Hemingway Construction
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t is common for historic residences along the East Coast to contain the fingerprints of a multitude of designers, making it difficult for these homes to have a continuous flow. Peter Sciarretta of Hemingway Construction and Julie Pagnozzi of D+D Homes are working tirelessly to change that.
Working as a duo, they offer a refreshing combination of new technology, old-school customer service, and a flair for the dramatic, creating a strategic mélange that resonates throughout their projects. Their working relationship is a strong one. “Julie knows how to knock it out of the park every time,” says Peter, “because she’s so good at finding out what the customers need before they even know it themselves.” Julie mirrors that sentiment towards Peter and his team. “You really need to surround yourself with good, hardworking people to become successful,” she says. “Quality professionals working with unique materials make for an entirely different standard of excellence.” “Often you have houses with a gorgeous exterior, but that isn’t communicated throughout the inside of the house,” continues Peter. “This disconnect translates to a mismatched design that looks like a house that doesn’t know what it wants to be when it grows up.” Creating a look that is timeless and elegant is one of the many talents of Julie’s approach, which uses
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technology to create imperial functionality in a space that wasn’t originally an “experience” for the homeowner. Peter and Julie agree that a mixture of inspiration from the customer’s wants and needs and an unparalleled eye for clean, high-quality touches keep their customers coming back for more. “It really is simple: give the customers what they want with quality materials,” says Julie. Bringing both the historic homes they remodel and the new constructions they curate into the 21st century revolves around communication. “Anything is possible in these bathrooms, just as in the rest of the home,” says Peter. Technology made readily available is making homes as unique as its inhabitants. The sky is the limit, with features like heated flooring, oversized vanities, fireplaces and Bluetooth-activated smart mirrors that eliminate the worry of the dreaded “phone drownings.” Using finishes with a nod to the past gives continuity to a space that was once just an in-and-out room and brings these artistically stunning projects to life. “I love working on projects that are traditionally inspired with a solid foundation in historic aesthetic that reaches towards the future with a modern transitional twist,” says Julie. Exceptional trends are those that stand the test of time, says Julie, who believes that tried-and true products made in the United States are priceless in the grand scheme of the details of the bathroom. A must-have that she’d
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install in every project might not be what you’d expect: superior drainage. “Floor and wall drains are my go-to recommendation for bathroom projects,” she says. “They’re space-saving, efficient, and more sanitary than traditional drains, and they offer clean lines. There are hardly any drawbacks to installing them. I’m completely behind them because they look good, work well and have longevity.” For Peter, it’s all about having what you need immediately available. “From groundbreaking day, we ensure that we have our materials ready, based on what we designed. This eliminates surprises, which in turn eradicates the likelihood of not meeting a deadline.” Peter notes that wall-mounted commodes and lavish, oversized soaking tubs are trending in recent projects. The most consistent conceptualization is the functionality of the design: if it’s going to work, it has to be exquisite in design and not impede the usefulness of the product. Of course, talent is just one of the tools that is critical to the success of the project. “It really comes down to making the customer happy,” says Julie. Converting dreams into a reality is her forte, which she exhibits in each project and starts with her showroom. “The experience there is much like working with Julie herself: It’s not overwhelming, and she chooses to exhibit quality over quantity,” says Peter. After the showroom, the team next offers good old-fashioned customer service—even at the expense of personal time. “We don’t take vacations!” exclaims Peter. “We’re there to get the job done right.” Julie investigates what a customer needs and utilizes her network of industry professionals as a sounding board to yield superior results. Both she and Peter are meticulous in their attention to the customer; ensuring that the home revolves around the client’s wants and needs is crucial for the success of every project. “By staying true to the basics of customer service, we acknowledge that we earned to be where we are,” Peter says of the Hemingway approach. “Every room in the home should give you an experience,” says Julie. “The bathroom is no exception.” Customers want the wow factor, and both Peter and Julie are up to the challenge. “People want their needs met immediately, so it’s our job to deliver,” she says. And they do, for the results clearly speak for themselves. Resource: D+D Homes Julie Pagnozzi 1918 Post Road Darien, CT 06820 203.655.4455 dndhomesllc.com Hemingway Construction Peter Sciarretta 115 Mason Street Greenwich, CT 06830 203.625.0566 hemingwayconstrucion.com Design + Decor
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THE SMART HOME
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LIVING IN THE FUTURE Homeowners and Smart Home Automation
To improve the quality and comfort of everyday life, Bill Charney of Advanced Home Audio designs smart home systems for his clients. Follow along on an informative journey as he elucidates Design + Decor readers about innovations in automation. Story by Alder Grove
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Bill Charney of Advanced Home Audio
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Architecture by Robert Cardello Architects
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n the luxury residential market, smart home technology is becoming universal. Indeed, it’s a rare occasion when a new residence is built without automation. Bill Charney, owner of Advanced Home Audio in Shelton, Connecticut, installs smart home automation systems in Connecticut, New York City, the Hamptons and South Florida. Here, Bill talks to Design + Décor about current and future trends in this everdeveloping human-house interface.
Keep it Simple “The most common thing I hear from clients who are considering smart home features is that they want something simple,” says Bill. Today ’s home automation systems fulfill that request. A single-app solution covers a vast array of in-home functions, all accessible on a smartphone. “The systems we’re providing give homeowners the ability to use the app from home or any-
where they are in the world,” he notes. When fully outfitted, an automation system includes music, video, lighting controls, window shading, climate controls, security, doorbell cameras and gate communication. Visually-oriented and intuitive, the app displays photos of each room in the house so the users can quickly determine which area they are controlling. Green Illumination Building codes and common sense require that high-performance LED fixtures be used in contemporary luxury residences. These lighting systems lend themselves to easy manipulation via the home automation app; they reduce energy consumption and are much more adjustable than earlier systems. Color temperature, or the appearance of light given off by a bulb, can now be adjusted digitally in an always-increasing selection of LED options. Design + Decor
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Archiecture by JBMP Architecture + Interior Design
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Built by Dibico Construction
Hidden in Plain Sight “We have product offerings that are invisible or made to intentionally conceal a TV or speaker,” says Bill. “We’re doing a lot of motorizations where we’re hiding displays.” Basic and premium trim options are available for speaker and TV displays, including all their outdoor counterparts. The speaker trims themselves are designed to match LED fixtures, effectively causing them to disappear into the background. Modern and classic materials round out the trim options. For an ultracontemporary aesthetic, satin nickel is available as an upgrade to the sleek aluminum or stainlesssteel finishes.
Built by Dibico Construction
What to Expect Next Future home automation trends are centered around wellness and energy management. LEDs have advanced to a level where human-centric lighting is now an option, with daytime lighting being programmed to closely mimic the color temperature and intensity of the sun. A home’s LED lighting system can provide a gradual increase from dim early sunrise to the brighter white-blues of midday to a candlelight-like glow at sunset. This natural progression enables one’s circadian rhythm to align with the sun’s movements. Bill sees this and other wellness trends as being in the forefront during the coming years. Design + Decor
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Architecture by Michael Smith Architects
Energy Management and the Microgrid Futuristic home automation is getting smarter and smarter. The system can even monitor and manage a home’s energy utility usage with the integration of a microgrid. This involves the use of a solar array and a battery bank, which stores power that can be accessed during a power outage or during peak utility usage hours to reduce electric bills. “Instead of burning utility power when the cost is the highest, we can switch off to backup reserves during those peak hours,” says Bill. “The next morning, the batteries recharge and we repeat the same cycle.” Homeowners love this feature because it can save them money and it allows them to have power during an electrical outage. Careful management and load sharing are made possible through this innovative technology. Enhancing the Experience Smart home automation elevates the homeowner’s experience of the residence to a whole new level of adaptability. Each family member can program unique settings that suit his or her personal habits. “To have a home that can anticipate your behaviors and store your preferences is huge,” says Bill. “It’s very user-preference personalized—it’s never a one-size-fits-all.” Peace of mind is achieved through easy access to music, comfort controls and security. The added bonus of remote access
to all the systems makes a strong case for utilizing these electronic overlays. With smart home technology, there is no need to have everything installed from day one, as the system can be augmented as each homeowner sees fit. If a new function is desired, it’s simply an add-on, easily folded into the existing system. Bill believes that this technology changes everything for the homeowner: the experience of living in a non-smart home vs. a smart home is like the difference between night and day. Indeed, highend homes with integral home automation exemplify some of the best uses of technology in our daily lives. Resource: Advanced Home Audio Bill Charney Nicole Charney 120 Long Hill Cross Road #2 Shelton, CT 06484 203.922.0051 advancedhomeaudio.com
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OUTDOOR SPACES
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THE JOY OF OUTDOOR SPACES: CREATING INTIMATE LANDSCAPES Connecticut and Westchester-based firm Young’s Legacy Landscaping installs exquisite plantings on the grounds of luxury homes. Owner, general manager and arborist Scott Deniston draws from decades of experience to showcase how projects in differing locales require particular approaches.
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Story by Alder Grove
uccessful creation of outdoor space is dependent on how a project is approached, based mainly on where a home is situated. Scott Deniston, owner and general manager of Young’s Legacy Landscaping in Newtown, Connecticut, knows what strategies to implement for homes on sprawling backcountry, city locales and oceanfront properties. Let’s explore the nuances of each and gain some insight into the creation of intimate outdoor spaces in the region. Enclosing a Private Space One of the biggest trends right now is the delineation of outdoor rooms. Mr. Deniston acknowledges that rooms can be created in several ways. It can be done with walls, structures, masonry, fencing, or architecturally laid-out plantings. “To enclose a private space, you can do hedges or tight-fitting vertical trees, such as hornbeam or beech,” Bill explains. “Hornbeams are a fast-growing deciduous tree. Basically, the branches grow straight up.” They are easy to maintain and trim as a living wall element in the landscaping of high-end homes.
Hornbeams are incredibly densely-branched. He says the trees provide one hundred percent privacy in the summer months, and because of their super dense structure, they can still screen sixty percent of the view into an outdoor room in winter. Bill adds, “Most of the outdoor rooms in Connecticut and New York are going to be used during the season when the leaves are on the trees anyway.” “We use them a lot where we need upright forms,” Mr. Deniston notes. A single tree or row of timber is excellent for use in defining the corners of an outdoor courtyard. They also develop quickly into hedges to line either side of a driveway. Another great application of a nicely plumb tree is to help the onlooker’s view step down to the ground from a very tall building’s facade. Bill introduces trees to ease the severity of the house-to-landscape transition. Undulating Topography In New England, there are a lot of very hilly areas, some with exposed ledge visible. Instead of a living wall, a stone element may presDesign + Decor
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Scott Deniston
ent itself for use as one border of an exterior living space. Utilizing what nature offers and blending it seamlessly with formal masonry like brick, or a naturally occurring resource like bluestone allows the expression of an outdoor space that seems to belong. Mr. Deniston informs that these rooms often focus on a view, and are therefore composed of three sides with an open corridor toward the desired horizon. The imposing stone wall or walls are softened through the placement of plantings in front of it. Backcountry Estates When considering acreages, sprawling properties in more pastoral areas, the land requires a specific set of attributes. “A less formal landscape, longer views, using more native and wildlife-attracting plant material is the best fit,” observes our arborist. “Rural landscapes lend themselves to vegetation with wider ground coverage and interestmaking.” Selecting berried plants, such as viburnums and hollies, creates interest in several ways. The evergreen holly broadcasts a vibrant green all year, with a bold sprinkling of red or yellow berries that invite one’s gaze during the winter. Viburnums, a group of various flowering shrubs, are durable plants that thrive in the sun or shade. They have bright coloration through the fall and display berries into the winter and interesting flowers in the spring. Combining these species in an informal layout augments the natural topography in more bucolic scenery. A City Dwelling The finer points of an urban oasis involve defining structure. The plants need to be of the slower-growing variety, as envisioned by our expert. “It’s important that the material is not going to outgrow the space,” Mr. Deniston asserts. “Urban spaces tend to be shady, so shade tolerance is also a requirement.” Both boxwoods and holly trees are slow and steady, displaying a rigorous verticality that works in an urban vignette. Young’s Legacy Landscaping sees installations where textures of stone and metal, working in congress with the woody vertical elements, synergize to organize beautiful spaces for city homeowners. Oceanfront Properties There is a driving force that demands the vegetation is in alignment
with the omnipresence of the ocean. The salt spray that rolls in on the wind and with storm surges requires the plant material to be appropriate for the saline air currents. “A lot fewer plant options are compatible with salt spray,” Bill opines. “There is a much more limited palette. You see a lot more grasses in oceanside landscapes.” A wide variety of options exist for the height and texture of salt-tolerant grasses. “Some are short, some are tall, some are sprawling. You can get upright ones,” Mr. Deniston remarks. “There are soft textures, blues, greens, reds, and even yellows.” The resilience and perennial nature of the grasses are their strength. If there is an event, like a hurricane or a big storm, the water-front plants will absorb the damage. Bill leaves the burnt or discolored grasses standing until spring, then cuts it down to allow brand new foliage to regenerate and flourish in the next growing season. This cycle brings freshness to the landscaping without needing to replace trees or shrubs that can’t handle the alkalinity of the environment. A couple of evergreen and semi-evergreen options also work at the sea. For an informal landscape, black pines are a good choice, often seen in Japanese style gardens. Mr. Deniston relishes the sturdiness and slow-growing durability of American holly trees. He emphasizes that hollies are a salt-tolerant species that endure and outperform other choices. Enclosing areas on the landscape is quite a magic trick. Outdoor spaces of the highest caliber require the deft touch of a master. Green thumbs are indispensable, as is the vision of an artist. Sowing seeds that will thrive in a four-season climate requires know-how and intuition. Working with the land to create a bond of real intimacy is a magical experience for a homeowner. Anytime this can be achieved, it is a monumental win for the lucky people who live there. Resource: Young’s Legacy Landscaping Scott Deniston PO BOX 566 Newtown, CT 06470 203.491.2257 youngslegacy.com Design + Decor
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PROFILE
Gaggenau introduces its new generation of combi-steam ovens 400 and 200 series.
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aggenau, the luxury brand for professional-grade home appliances, reveals the new and technologically advanced combi-steam ovens in its 400 and 200 series. The brand brought the first combi-steam oven into the private kitchen in 1999, creating the ideal conditions for steam cooking – a unique combination of using humidity with hot air to deliver health conscious cuisine. Gaggenau continues to develop its combi-steam ovens further, making technical, design and performance innovations. This includes a fixed water connection model, in addition to a fully automatic cleaning system and a full surface grill hidden behind ceramic glass for the ovens 200 series.
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Recipes are cooked to perfection through the addition of a multicore temperature probe to both the 400 and 200 series. The temperature probe offers the most accurate temperature reading on the market, with a variance of one degree within a certain range. The probe features three temperature sensors and continually revises the estimated cooking time based on the sensors readings, ensuring that high quality results are achieved during each use. Gaggenau gaggenau.com
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