BEFORE+AFTER ry e r e d o :
d ow n u n d e r :
OLD IS NOW NEW
AMAZING UPDATE
$5.95 JAN/FEB 2018
athomefc. com
c o lo r
MARIGOLD MOMENT
fa s h i o n h o u s e
FIERCE FLORALS
h au t e s t u f f
BRIGHT LIGHTS
amyhirsch.com
203.661.1266
pimlicointeriors.com 215 Elm Street, 2nd floor, New Canaan, CT 203 972 8166
contents JAN/FEB 2018 vol. 13 | issue 1
features
departments
41
8 EDITOR’S NOTE
IMAGE OVERHAUL A dozen design pros take a variety of spaces from so-so to stunning.
66
10 GET THE GOODS Color trend: Marigold; House Work; Gilt Trip
GOOD MOVES
16 FASHION HOUSE Fierce florals that recall a winter garden
A Greenwich home maximizes its size by minimizing walls and embracing a new flow.
18 SHOPTALK Local design news, the latest collections, haute happenings and more
72
GAME CHANGER An unfinished basement is converted into a cozy retreat fit for the whole family.
22 HAUTE STUFF Think big with statement pendant lights
76
26 KITCHEN A redesign tastefully blends form and function
major makeover:
WORTH THE WAIT A thoughtful renovation and one-of-a-kind details revive a timeless Rye home.
41
interviews and editing by l auren fet terman
100 EXPERTS Pros weigh in on redo tips and trends
ATHOME IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY JAN/FEB 2018, VOL. 13, NO. 1. ATHOME IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY (ISSN 1941-9503) is published six times annually (Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Jul/Aug, Sep/Oct, Nov/Dec) by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St, Westport, CT 06880. Periodical postage paid at Westport, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to ATHOME IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, PO BOX 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607. US subscription rates: $19.95/1 year, $29.95/2 years; Canada and foreign US$40/1 year, US$60/2 years.
on the c ove r l tu tun i nteriors | ph ot o gr a ph y a m y vi schio athomefc.com
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Exceptional Products, Personal Service WESTPORT SHOWROOM
203.227.5181
FAMILY COMPANIES STONE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES
BETHEL SHOWROOM
203.790.9023 gaultstone.com
VOLUME 13
ISSUE 1
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018
creative/editorial director Amy Vischio
chief revenue officer Pete Michalsky
editorial
sales
senior associate editor Lauren Fetterman
sales management moffly media
market editor Megan Gagnon advisory editor Donna Moffly
publisher, greenwich Trish Kirsch
contributing editors Jeanne Craig - editor, new canaan - darien Camilla A. Herrera - editor, stamford Cristin Marandino - executive editor, greenwich Diane Sembrot - editor, fairfield living; westport art art director Garvin Burke production director Kerri Rak digital media manager Amber Scinto digital editor Diane Sembrot
Lauren F Benjamin Moore’s Tree Moss just says “serenity” to me, so I’m thinking my bedroom needs a new look this year!
Amy V Though I never tire of white, I can see myself trying Pelt by Farrow & Ball. I would paint a small room with it, trim and all.
publisher, new canaan - darien Lisa Phillips Hingst categories: automotive/builders/landscape/ sports & fitness publisher, stamford Karen Kelly category: travel publisher, westport Gabriella Mays categories: architects/interior design/home furnishing/ art & collectibles sales directors
ad operations/web coordinator Lauren Stevens
Jennifer Petersen category: jewelry
Monique de Boer
WE ASKED: what’s your personal paint pick for 2018?
Trish K My go-to hue this year is Benjamin Moore’s Silver Marlin. It would get along well with the grays, blues and violets I love.
categories: fashion and beauty
I love at least one room with dark walls, and Farrow & Ball’s Studio Green is a gorgeous shade. The deep color reads as almost black and creates a moody backdrop for stark whites or pops of jewel tones.
Mary Joe Clark sales director, boston
Stephanie Delaney regional account executive, southeast category: regional travel
Jennifer Frank categories: doctors/dentists/finance/insurance/ business consulting
Rick Johnson categories: real estate/lawyers
Ellyn Weitzman categories: restaurants/wine & spirits/catering
business
Hilary Hotchkiss
chief financial officer Brian R. Feidt
contract sales
business manager Elena Moffly
category: schools & universities
marketing
president Jonathan W. Moffly
Garvin B
vice president/editorial & design Amy Vischio vice president/finance & operations Brian R. Feidt vice president/sales & marketing Pete Michalsky vice president/treasurer Elena Moffly founder & chairman emeritus John W. Moffly IV
Benjamin Moore’s Bird’s Egg is soothing and bright at the same time, a two-for-one color. In fact, my TV room is this color. I practice what I preach—I’m living the dream.
founder & editorial advisor Donna C. Moffly
executive director, event marketing Laurinda Finelli director, event marketing Caroline C. Steber partnership manager Kathleen Godbold event coordinator Alexandra Pemberton strategic marketing director Wendy Horwitz creative services art director Molly Cottingham
published by 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 mail@mofflymedia.com Publishers of FAIRFIELD LIVING, GREENWICH, NEW CANAAN - DARIEN, WESTPORT, STAMFORD and athome Magazines for advertising inquiries, email advertise@mofflymedia.com. TO SUBSCRIBE, renew, or change your address, please e-mail us at subscribe@athomefc.com, call 1-877-467-1735, or write to athome in Fairfield County Magazine, 111 Corporate Drive, Big Sandy, TX 75755. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues); $34.95/2 years (12 issues); $44.95/3 years (18 issues). Canada and foreign, US $36/year. Prices are subject to change without notice. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. ©2014 athome in Fairfield County Magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by athome in Fairfield County are not necessarily those of the magazine. FOR QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS/E-PRINTS, please call 203-571-1645 or e-mail reprints@mofflymedia.com
athomefc.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY: AMY VISCHIO: KRISTIN BURKE HYNES; MEGAN GAGNON: VENERA ALEXANDROVA
>>
Megan G
Access this one-of-a-kind experience at clarkeliving.com
New England’s Official Sub-Zero & Wolf Showroom and Test Kitchen
South Norwalk, CT • 800-845-8247 • clarkeliving.com
editor’s note /HIT REFRESH
W
hile there aren’t many certainties in life (other than death and taxes, of course), I can think of a third that’s guaranteed to pull you in and make you look—a good “before and after.” In a world where self-improvement is forever on our radar (and, possibly, our to-do list), I don’t think anyone can deny that turning something familiar and ho-hum into something new and inspiring always demands a second glance. We’ve all experienced the way a new haircut or outfit can be an empowering tool for reinvention, and in the shelter industry, it’s no different. It takes a combination of skill and imagination to see the possibilities that lie inside neglected, ordinary or dysfunctional spaces, and the beauty of these “before and after” reveals is that their allure lies not in their size or scale, but in their impact. ¶ That’s why in this issue, we’re showcasing “before and after” projects of all types, sizes and spaces. First, we step inside a New Canaan kitchen, where Buffy Goodwin from Deane, Inc., redesigned and opened up a young family’s formerly dim, awkward space (“Perfect Fit” on page 26). Next we offer a menu of incredible transformations, where twelve design professionals show and tell how they crafted amazing new looks (“Image Overhaul” on page 41). We then move on to Greenwich, where Clean Design’s Claire Paquin updated a tired foursquare home by taking down walls, repurposing rooms and maximizing light for a fresh take on a modern farmhouse (“Good Moves” on page 66). Later we enter a cozy yet chic lower level by Eileen Deschapelles that guarantees fun for the entire family (“Game Changer” on page 72). And finally in Rye, designer Laura Tutun and architect Frank Marsella revitalized a sprawling home through careful renovations and unique touches and finishes that together evoke a sophisticated yet family-friendly feel (“Major Makeover: Worth the Wait” on page 76). ¶ And, in the spirit of “before and after” transformations, you will notice that athome has undergone a makeover of its own. While good design always endures, we felt the time was right to give ourselves a facelift. That meant narrowing down infinite choices, trying various looks on for size and ultimately listening to what spoke to us. The end result is in your hands, and we hope you love our updated look and feel as much as we do. Who knows—maybe this issue will spur on a “before and after” of your own!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIEN JARRY
Me and Lauren Fetterman
AMY VISCHIO Creative/Editorial Director amy.vischio@moffly.com
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3 3 0 Fa i r F i e l d av e n u e S ta m F o r d , C t 2 0 3 . 8 1 7. 0 4 3 3 S C h wa rt z d e S i g n S h ow r o o m . C o m t o - t h e - t r a d e o n ly
goods/COLOR by megan gagnon
POPS OF MARIGOLD ARE RIPE FOR THE PICKING
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1
1stdibs
LORENZA BOZZOLI Couture Plain pouf with fringe; price upon request. lorenzabozzoli.com
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ABCDNA Mohair throw in ochre; $350. abchome.com
Amber Murano chandelier; $4,850. Hamptons Antique Galleries, Stamford, 203-325-4019; 1stdibs.com
NANNA AND JØRGEN DITZEL
Ring chair in Dandelion; $2,500. Design Within Reach, Stamford, 203-614-0787; dwr.com
marigold always has a way of adding energy t o a space like no other c ol or can; it is the c ol or of optimism and joy after all.
Eye votive; $570 for set of two. Greenwich, 203-618-0900; baccarat.com
—william lyon, interior designer, lillian august
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BOBBY BERK HOME Tabitha Collection sofa; starting at $1,299. bobbyberkhome.com
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS
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5
BACCARAT
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WAKEFIELD design center
Curated by Designers for Designers
Instant Gratification | Finishing Touches and Makeovers by Appointment Only
To The Trade Only 652 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT 06906 T: (203) 358-0818 F: (203) 602-7738 info@wakefielddesigncenter.com | www.wakefielddesigncenter.com
goods/HOUSE WORK
ARCHITECT-APPROVED HOME OFFICE DESIGN
i l ove t o use a sit-stand desk and recently got one for my own office. i feel energized and find myself standing for most of the day.
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—rich granoff, granoff architects
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5 7
6 1 MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS Allure desk; $1,995. Greenwich, 203-661-4480; mgbwhome.com
2 LEE INDUSTRIES Amelia swivel chair; $2,398. Lillian August, Norwalk, 203-847-3314; lillianaugust.com
3 MR. BROWN LONDON
4 JAEGERLECOULTRE
Skylar floor lamp; $1,935. Wakefield Design Center, Stamford, 203-3580818; wakefield designcenter.com
ATMOS Classique rhodium-plated clock; $6,600. Betteridge, Greenwich, 203-8690124; betteridge.com
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5 TIFFANY & CO.
6 CB2
7 AREAWARE
Sterling silver protractor; $425. Triangle; $400. Ruler; $450. Greenwich, 203-661-7847; tiffany.com
Inline brass filing cabinet; $899. cb2.com
Concrete tape dispenser by Magnus Pettersen; $35. areaware.com
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS
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1 MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS Allure desk; $1,995. Greenwich, 203-661-4480; mgbwhome.com
2 LEE INDUSTRIES Amelia swivel chair; $2,398. Lillian August, Norwalk, 203-847-3314; lillianaugust.com
3 MR. BROWN LONDON
4 JAEGERLECOULTRE
Skylar floor lamp; $1,935. Wakefield Design Center, Stamford, 203-3580818; wakefield designcenter.com
ATMOS Classique rhodium-plated clock; $6,600. Betteridge, Greenwich, 203-8690124; betteridge.com
5 TIFFANY & CO.
6 CB2
7 AREAWARE
Sterling silver protractor; $425. Triangle; $400. Ruler; $450. Greenwich, 203-661-7847; tiffany.com
Inline brass filing cabinet; $899. cb2.com
Concrete tape dispenser by Magnus Pettersen; $35. areaware.com
goods/GILT TRIP
MARBLE AND GOLD MAKE FOR A LUXE BATHROOM
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1 SHINE BY S.H.O
2 br ass and gold perfectly c omplement all the c o ol t ones of the ever-p opul ar white and grey marbles. the mix meets the challenge of having a space that is b oth fresh and cl assic. —vita imbrogno, greenwich tile & marble company, inc
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Ambrose sconce; $4,000. Schwartz Design Showroom, Stamford, 203-817-0433; schwartz designshowroom.com
2 MAISON VALENTINA Symphony bathtub; $34,755. maisonvalentina.net
3 KREEO Panama marble tile; starting at $205 per square foot. Greenwich Tile & Marble, 203-869-1709; greenwichtile andmarblect.com
4 RH Bowery single extra-wide washstand with marble shelf; $4,795. Greenwich, 203-552-1040; rh.com
5 PHYLRICH
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5 athomefc.com
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6 WATERWORKS Andrian bath accessories, part of the New Icons launch. Tissue cover; $1,050. Soap dispenser; $675. Canister; $725. Soap dish; $275. Greenwich, 203-869-7766; waterworks.com
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS
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White marble and polished brass paper holder from the Carrara collection; price upon request. Klaff’s, Norwalk, 203-866-1603; klaffs.com
PROMOTION
after
an architect artisan stays true to a home’s architectural style
before
after
1 MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS Allure desk; $1,995. Greenwich, 203-661-4480; mgbwhome.com
2 LEE INDUSTRIES Amelia swivel chair; $2,398. Lillian August, Norwalk, 203-847-3314; lillianaugust.com
3 MR. BROWN LONDON
4 JAEGERLECOULTRE
Skylar floor lamp; $1,935. Wakefield Design Center, Stamford, 203-3580818; wakefield designcenter.com
ATMOS Classique rhodium-plated clock; $6,600. Betteridge, Greenwich, 203-8690124; betteridge.com
Whether renovating a home or buying a new home, it’s important to find an architect who knows how to stay true to its original architectural design, character and surroundings, and at the same time is able to create a beautiful, functional living space. For over 40 years, Wadia Associates has renovated hundreds of residences, from the traditional guest house to the family estate, demonstrating its commitment to making each home an attainable luxury.
5 TIFFANY & CO.
6 CB2
7 AREAWARE
Sterling silver protractor; $425. Triangle; $400. Ruler; $450. Greenwich, 203-661-7847; tiffany.com
Inline brass filing cabinet; $899. cb2.com
Concrete tape dispenser by Magnus Pettersen; $35. areaware.com
Throughout the design process, Dinyar Wadia and his team spend time with their clients to learn about their lifestyles so that they can personalize a design that reflects their modern-day needs. Wadia Associates will map out their plans and provide before-and-after renderings, taking clients thoughtfully through every step of the process. Their seamless integration of the old with the new gives each one of their homes unparalleled character, and a personal story to live for generations to come.
Dinyar Wadia Wadia Associates | 134 Main Street, New Canaan CT 06840 | 203.966.0048 | wadiaassociates.com
by megan gagnon
ROOMS THAT START ON THE RUNWAY
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1 STRIULLI VETRI D’ARTE Roseto chandelier; $8,490. artemest.com
2 DESIGNERS GUILD
3 AKDO
4 JOULES
5 KOHLER
Fritillaria malachite and Delft flower graphite; to the trade. New York, 212-967-4540; designersguild.com
Sublime bouquet tile; price upon request. Bridgeport, 203-336-5199; akdo.com
Bright Bloom garden boots; $88. Terrain, Westport, 203-226-2732; shopterrain.com
Dutchmaster floral sink; $1,065. Bender, Norwalk, 203-8473865; bender plumbing.com
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6 MAISON CHRISTIAN LACROIX Malmaison broadloom carpet; price upon request. moooicarpets.com
7 GOCKEN JOBS Danish produced easy chair, circa 1950s; $4,379.74. 1stdibs.com
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS
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model: Gucci Fall/ Winter 2017 room: A powder room by Lucy Interior Design
P H O T O G R A P H B Y J A N E B E I L E S ; A R C H I T E C T U R E : B R O O K S & FA L O T I C O
NEW CANAAN ✧ 203.972.6100 ✧ r r b u i l d e r s . c o m
JAN/FEB 2018
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athome
shoptalk
THE LATEST DESIGN NEWS by l auren fet terman and judy ostrow
above: For Mele (below), opening his first store in Greenwich has special meaning. “I’d always wanted and planned on having a store, and the right opportunity presented itself. I’m happy I’m doing this in my hometown.”
HOME COMING
T
here’s no place like home, and for PATRICK MELE, it’s where he’s chosen to set up shop. This past December in his hometown of Greenwich, the New York City-based designer opened his first eponymous store, and it’s already proven to be a destination for the interesting and the interested. Housed in a century-old, 500-square-foot former neighborhood grocer in the heart of downtown, Mele’s vision of a consistently rotating mini-department store has vibrantly come to life. An irresistible assemblage of furnishings, art, lighting, carpets, fragrances, jewelry and select items chosen for their timeless beauty and charm greets the eye. “It’s a mix of refurbished antiques and period pieces with great personality, ranging from the seventeenth century to today,” says Mele. “I like intelligent, I like colorful, I like humor, I like well-traveled, and I like a sense of history and a room that tells a story.” The “electric and eclectic” space also showcases thoughtfully chosen lines and one-of-a-kind treasures. Noguchi Akari light sculptures, unique selections from Creel and Gow, vintage and costume jewelry, and Régime des Fleurs bespoke fragrances are just a sampling of what’s in store. Contemporary artwork by Wayne Pate, Alicia Ethridge and Ak Jansen and pottery by Nicholas
Newcomb currently mingle with African masks, kilim pillows and painted furniture. When selecting the ideal site, Mele knew right where he wanted to be. “I’m in a corner building that I really had an affection for growing up here,” he says. “I love the history in this space, that it’s imperfect and has character. With ten-foot tin ceilings and a classic store frontage, the bones of it cinched it for me. I knew I could make it great.” After tearing out the carpet and built-ins, installing classic track lighting and painting the walls and plywood floors white, “it’s like a raw gallery space you’d find in the city,” he says. “I’m opening up with the feeling of a bazaar, like in Morocco or Turkey, with jewel tones and rich, saturated color. I want this to be a fabulous retail store that people have to come back to time and time again because I plan to stylistically reimagine the space multiple times a year.” Mele plans on being at the store several times a week, and his mother, Pat, who has worked in Greenwich retail for nearly twenty years, will run the day-to-day. “My goal is to get people excited about coming to a physical shop once again, to enjoy a one-on-one, 360-degree experience that you simply can’t capture through a screen.” Patrick Mele, 60 William Street, Greenwich; patrickmele.com —LF
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PHOTOGRAPH: KYLE KNODELL; PORTRAIT; CHARLES DE VAIVRE
PATRICK MELE’S NEW SALON FILLED WITH DESIGN INSPIRATION ARRIVES IN GREENWICH
shoptalk
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Custom Blend The owner of THE COLLECTED HOME brings her fresh style to a home décor studio in Rowayton
PHOTOGRAPHS: CONTRIBUTED
C
larice King—known as Risa—has a passion for history. Her local story began with her New Canaan home, a 1920s polo pony stable turned guest house, now completely refreshed since she moved there with her family eight years ago. While she refurbished that home, she scoured Fairfield County for a spot to showcase and sell a barn full of treasures she had collected. She settled on a building beside the Five Mile River in Rowayton, now a go-to spot for home décor pieces and inspiration. 161 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton; 203-956-0990; thecollectedhome.com —JO
JAN/FEB 2018
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FROM THE HEART
DESIGN-MINDED
HOME + MORE
King has filled her store with eyecatching objects from near and far that speak to the heart with their form and feel. “I’ve set up a network with the people I’ve met over the years while collecting for my home and design clients. My things come from many places—Texas, Georgia, Germany as well as from antiques shows and fairs.”
“My work is blending pieces—theirs and mine, new and vintage—to create artful interiors for my clients. I treat my design work as a partnership. I want to give clients what they want.” King started her design business working for friends and family; the shop is an extension of that. “It satisfies my need to connect people to the furnishings I’ve found and to pass on the stories and histories of the objects.”
Browse at The Collected Home and you’ll find vintage jewelry, gifts for holidays, weddings, and birthdays, and much more. King set up the store like a comfy home, and she encourages customers to take a seat, thumb through books and have a cup of tea while they shop.
athome
shoptalk
SUITE DEBUT
F
or their debut collection of custom architectural hardware, PETER PENNOYER ARCHITECTS has partnered with Lowe Hardware, a Maine-based company known for its beautifully crafted marine hardware. The collection features the signature timeless elegance found in Peter Pennoyer Architects’ projects around the world and carries the distinguished quality and artistry of all Lowe Hardware in three distinct lines—the Cubist Suite, City Suite and Country Suite. Each line is available in a variety of finishes and customization options. ppapc.com; lowe-hardware.com
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above: The sleek No. 27 chair and the sculptural Branche table
on the rise
THE CUBIST SUITE displays a modernist approach to geometry. Completely comfortable to the hand and functionally impeccable, these pieces display faceted and crystalline shapes.
Catching up with HOLLY HUNT Off the Floor
What’s in store for 2018? We want to continue to be a resource for local designers. We’re opening our new textile area in January with the full range of Great Plains and Great Outdoors textiles, Phillip Jeffries wallcoverings and HOLLY HUNT Leather. What are you proudest of with the launch of this location? Creating a new type of experience for our customers focused on immediate gratification. Many
projects have short lead times and last-minute needs, and our trade-only Stamford location fills that gap.
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How is HOLLY HUNT Off the Floor unique on a local level? This is HOLLY HUNT’s only “off the floor” showroom. It’s unique to our brand, and it’s unique to the Stamford market, as no other similar showroom exists in the area.
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THE CITY SUITE reflects the elegant and spare classicism of the best of New York residential architecture of the 1920s. It’s a contemporary take on timeless hardware models.
What pieces are you loving right now? We’re really loving the eclectic mix we have. We get pieces from our showrooms in Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago and elsewhere, and putting these various pieces together results in a great look. The mix of products constantly changes—we receive new items daily, and pieces are selling at the same rate, so the floor is always fresh. 375 Fairfield Avenue, Suite 102, Stamford; 203-658-8525; hollyhunt.com
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THE COUNTRY SUITE features refined, traditional proportions with a fresh twist. The collection was designed for the country house Pennoyer built with his wife, interior decorator Katie Ridder.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: HOLLY HUNT: ANGIE WEST; PETER PENNOYER: PORTRAIT: JAY ACKERMAN; PRODUCTS: ERIC PIASECKI
AH: You officially opened in Stamford this past fall. What was opening day like? Dan Campbell, National Sales Manager: Over a hundred designers visited on our first day; many were waiting outside for our doors to open! Clients snapped up great deals on a variety of off-the-floor items like furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories. They were excited to access ready-to-install items at great prices.
shoptalk
PIECE OFFERINGS W
aterworks expanded its presence in the bath space this past fall with over 140 introductions, including two new fittings collections, a new bathtub and an expanded assortment of new vanities, fixtures, accessories and furnishings. Each element is inspired by early vintage and industrial influences and capitalizes on Waterworks’ heritage: creating original, groundbreaking designs that take root and endure. They’re being presented alongside the company’s iconic
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WATERWORKS takes bath design to a new level
R.W. Atlas, Henry and Easton fittings families, which similarly draw on elements from the early twentieth century. Both groundbreaking and timeless, these collections live together as desirable icons for this generation and beyond. “The essence of this collection is the idea of innovation,” says Peter Sallick, CEO and creative director of Waterworks. “Since our founding in 1978, we’ve reinterpreted historical and unusual things through our distinctive,
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classical lens. With our two new bath fittings families— Dash and Regulator—we’ve built on that tradition of iconic design. Each piece draws on pure mechanical elements from the past, edited into something more polished, more sophisticated and ideal for today’s needs.” The new Waterworks collections and expanded bath offerings are available for order and will be in-stock early this year. 23 West Putnam Avenue, Greenwich; 203-8697766; waterworks.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY: WATERWORKS: CONTRIBUTED BY WATERWORKS; ABC STONE: CONTRIBUTED
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1 Crystal Wall Mounted Rectangular Mirror on Bar in unlacquered brass 2 Dash Three Hole Wall Mounted Lavatory Faucet with Metal Lever Handles in nickel 3 Regulator Thermostatic Control Valve Trim with Black Lever Handle in unlacquered brass 4 Regulator Ceiling Mounted 10” Shower Rose, Arm and Flange in nickel 5 Dash Metal Cross Handle Thermostatic with Metal Cross Handle Three Way Diverter Trim in nickel
CHANGE OF ADDRESS ABC Stone’s Westbury showroom has a new address! The stone supplier’s Long Island location has expanded and relocated to the brand-new, state-of-the-art Design Center at 210 Miller Place in Hicksville. In addition to this beautiful new space, clients can continue to visit ABC Stone’s Brooklyn showroom and warehouse. Offering an endless selection and impeccable service, both sites are the place to discover all of the ways marble, quartzite and more can take your design to the next level. abcworldwidestone.com
JAN/FEB 2018
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by megan gagnon
STATEMENT LIGHTING TAKES CENTER STAGE
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PUTNAM & MASON Facette chandelier; $10,395. Putnam & Mason, Greenwich, 203-900-1414; putnammason.com
SERENA & LILY
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Pescadero pendant; $698. Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com
OOMPH
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STUDIO DUNN
Sorenthia quad chandelier; starting at $5,148. White Birch Studio, Westport, 203-557-9137; whitebirchstudio.com
EMIL STEJNAR
Large Austrian sputnik chandelier; $20,000. 1stdibs.com
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IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS
Cambridge III in brass; $2,250. Greenwich, 203-518-8068; oomphhome.com
3 KRAVET
Liza chandelier; to the trade. Stamford, 203-504-2640; kravet.com
4 KENNETH COBONPUE Light ring horizontal polygonal; $100,896. ddcnyc.com
9 JOHN ROSSELLI FOR CIRCA LIGHTING Mia small chandelier; $2,370. Greenwich, 203-622-1417; circalighting.com
ALISON BERGER FOR HOLLY HUNT Lyra chandelier; price upon request. New York, 212-891-2500; hollyhunt.com
10 JAN/FEB 2018
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CALEB SIEMON
Cumolo black pendant; $750. Interieurs, Cos Cob; 212-343-0800; interieurs.com
PROMOTION
AFTER
BEFORE
CHANGE ARTISTS When it’s time to shake things up on the home décor front, Lillian August’s seasoned interior designers are ready to help you embrace change. Whether you’re looking for a quick refresh or a gut renovation, Lillian August has got you covered. With more than twenty in-house designers offering everything from full-service interior design to a one-room update, no project is too big or too small. At Lillian August, it’s all about what works for you and your aesthetic. With showrooms, warehouses, and ateliers in Norwalk, Greenwich and Stamford, Lillian August is your one-stop resource for a gorgeous AFTER.
So … you’re ready to make a change, but you don’t know how to get started? One of your best bets is to flag a few of your favorite looks, either in magazines or on your Instagram feed. Then, stop by one of Lillian August’s local showrooms and take a walk around, noting pieces that catch your eye. When you begin homing in on a style or two that grabs you, it’s time to talk to one of Lillian August’s designers. Stop by the front desk, and check your intimidation at the door. These professionals are on hand to answer your questions and take you for a spin around the showroom floor to get to know you better. There is no fee for
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LORIN KLARIS
Before & After with Lillian August’s Home Makeover Specialists
PROMOTION
Beach to Chic AN OFFICE MAKEOVER William Lyon of Lillian August and his client both agreed that her office should be vibrant, edgy and sophisticated. When it came time to redesign her office, Lyon first took the time to assess the space and get a feel for the client’s aesthetic. Lyon recalls, “From the moment I walked into her office, it was clear that she wasn’t afraid of color. Her walls were already painted in Benjamin Moore’s Bold Blue framed by white window moldings, which created a ‘beachy’ feel to the room.” Everyone loved the wall color, so Lyon suggested they go all the way and paint the trim in the same high-gloss blue hue for maximum impact. That simple change transformed the room from “beach” to “chic.” From that point on, everything fell into place. The architectural diptych was Lyon’s first dramatic addition to the space. Next, he added a playful touch via an antelope rug and chair. With this much excitement in one room, he made sure to keep the backdrop simple with monochromatic drapery that melted into the wall color and a basic round mirror. Gorgeous functional pieces, like the Lillian August brass Z-shaped desk and understated Hadley cabinet, ground the room and add warmth and sophistication. For the last layer of accessories, Lyon shook things up with elements that add pop and personality. He joked, “Perfect is boring. Hence, the glossy green apple, the angular lamps and the green bamboo reeds.”
The Lillian August Design Center offers many design resources, including a dedicated project space, rug gallery, cafe and workrooms.
for designer consultations, so feel free to fire away all your questions and pick the designer’s brain for inspiration. Developing relationships and getting to know clients are the keys to Lillian August’s longevity as the area’s most enduring home retailer. Started by Lillian August and her sons, Dan and John Weiss,
nearly 30 years ago, Lillian August has remained at the helm of the home design industry by offering an unprecedented selection of quality products from around the world, along with top-notch design services and unparalleled customer experience. Are you ready for a little makeover? Visit LillianAugust.com
Lillian August Design Center 32 Knight Street, Norwalk Flagship with 100,000-square feet of design inspiration, including a cafe, rug gallery, art gallery project space and more. More home furnishing brands than any other local showrooms. Phone 203.847.3314 Lillian August SoNo Annex 85 Water Street, Norwalk Located across from the Maritime Aquarium, offering 40,000-squarefeet of unique home furnishings finds at accessible price points. Phone 203.838.0153 Lillian August Greenwich Atelier 26 E. Putnam Ave, Greenwich Beautiful, light-filled atelier in the Greenwich Design District offering a boutique luxury experience. Phone 203.489.3740 Lillian August Stamford Warehouse The newly expanded warehouse is full of in-stock furnishings at the best prices. Phone 203.847.1596
interview with buffy go odwin, deane, inc. | phot o gr apher paul johnson
Perfect Fit A redesigned NEW CANAAN KITCHEN tastefully blends FORM AND FUNCTION
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The chestnut flooring was custom-stained to resonate with the walnut elements incorporated throughout the space.
Upper cabinetry now runs up to the ceiling for additional storage. The contours of the custom brushed stainless-steel hood with polished stainless-steel strapping mimic the curves of the various archways in the space.
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three-drawer stack that houses several sets of cutlery immediately to the right of the primary sink. That was the wife’s idea, and it was genius— so convenient. The family’s three daughters are still in school, so we put a breadbox and refrigeration drawers on the working side of the island to keep things for school lunches and snacks that the kids can readily get without having to go to the big fridge.
When you connected with these clients through the Deane showroom, what were they looking for? They’re a family of five, and they wanted
a more user-friendly, accessible kitchen with an open floor plan. Their house is relatively new, and while the existing kitchen had a lot of pretty finishes, it didn’t function well. It was a big space, but it didn’t act like one; it was broken up into pieces, with a main kitchen and then a big living space and breakfast area sectioned off by a wall with a small archway through it. Even though there were windows, the space felt dark. The island was another issue—the two tiers truncated it, and with room for only three barstools, there wasn’t enough seating for the whole family. Storage for daily dishes and glasses was relegated to this single hanging cabinet far from the cooking and eating areas, and the dishwasher and primary sink were at the end of the kitchen, which wasn’t convenient.
What overall look did you want to create? Soft tones were used through-
out the rest of the house, so we definitely wanted a soft white, nothing harsh; we chose what we call our “showroom” white. We then selected Taj Mahal stone. This particular lot was really beautiful, with soft greige tones, and it kept this large kitchen from feeling severe. This lot was also very hard, which meant it would be really durable. We used it everywhere—built up to a two-and-a-half-inch edge for the whole perimeter and used as full-height backsplash behind the hood and behind the area to the left of the refrigerator.
How did you remedy some of the sore spots in the layout? Our first
thought was taking down the wall, and that’s what we ended up doing. It’s unbelievable how much lighter and brighter the space is now. We moved the primary sink closer to the cooking area so the clients can clean pots and pans as they use them, and we put the prep sink where the primary sink used to be, though not as far down. We put a dishwasher next to each sink, since any kitchen this size needs two dishwashers, and we added a
The bar on the one end is new. How did that space come together?
The clients wanted a beverage center, so that functions as both a bar and a coffee/tea station. It’s equidistant to the kitchen and the living area, so when they’re having a party and people are in the family room, their
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left: A smoky mirror backsplash softens the bar’s elevation. The oval window to the right was added during the renovation, offering views of the gardens in the front of the property. right: The bar’s integrated walnut sink boasts a water-resistant marine finish. below: The island and the builtin bookcase in the family room are both painted Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter.
guests have access to drinks and coffee without having to go into the main kitchen space. The walnut we incorporated into the countertop, integrated sink, interior of the cabinet and floating shelves ties into the fireplace and the back of the built-in bookcase in the family room. It made this large space cohesive—wherever your eye lands, there’s an element reminiscent of another part. Did you encounter any challenges? The stone wall was the biggest bear.
It runs front to back through the house, and it’s massive. We had to etch around and chip away part of that wall and do a flush wall board behind it to hang the cabinetry and a full-height stone slab before we hung the hood. We had to custom-carve trim pieces out of slab to integrate the cabinetry, countertop and full-height slab to that rough wall and marry those surfaces together. That was all really tricky. The herringbone tile backsplash along the back wall that faces the pool was another challenge. There are inverted corners to the left and right of the door on that wall, and because it’s a herringbone pattern, each piece of tile had to match.
the stone fireplace in the family room on one end, and on the other end, the hood elevation is like a piece of jewelry or artwork. For as large of a space as it is, because of the softness and the details, it feels intimate. —interview by lauren fetterman
Resources: What do you love most about this space? I love that there’s something of interest on every wall. On the back wall, there’s that beautiful herringbone tile and the windows. You have the beautiful bar area on the other side,
Designer: Buffy Goodwin, Deane, Inc., Stamford; 203-327-7008; deaneinc.com Contractor: Tom Watson, Home Renovation & Design, Trumbull; 203-650-2945 Interior designer: Kathy Yates Interior Design; 203-522-6113
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before + after
Who doesn’t love the “lift” of a fresh start? The new year invites us all to reinvent our spaces, and there is no better (or faster) way to get the results we want than landing the right pro to uncover the possibilities. This is your opportunity to create your own “before and after,” so turn the page to get inspired and get started!
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left: Wet bar cabinet detail above: Before photo of entertainment room bottom: Entertainment room opposite page: Entertainment room looking toward wet bar
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ALL PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROBERT BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY
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CHARLES HILTON ARCHITECTS
Interview with CHUCK HILTON , hiltonarchitects.com 170 Mason Street Greenwich, CT, 203-489-3800
Main renovation objective: The owners of this 1940s brick Georgian in Greenwich wanted to transform an existing pool house—which was more of a dated afterthought—into a chic, inviting retreat. “The interiors were really dreary,” says Charles Hilton. “Everything was very heavy and drab.” The main renovation objective became to update the tired interiors and create a fresh clean look, reflective of the building’s pool house function, that would provide a comfortable, inviting oasis for their family to use during the summer swim season. Favorite element of the renovation: Our favorite element is the entertainment
room. Its bright interiors and hues of blue reflect its poolside setting. The main seating area is now ringed with white beadboard wainscoting, and Davenport North Interiors provided a custom blue-and-white striped woven vinyl rug that anchors a Lars Bolander coffee table and a pair of cream linen sofas. China Seas fabrics and wallpaper add a bold visual punch. It’s a cheerful and welcoming place in which to create memories with family and friends.
How long the renovation took: Three and a half months. Biggest challenge you faced: The biggest challenge was to provide a
well-functioning kitchenette wet bar in a very limited space.
A special request you executed: The client wanted a kitchenette wet bar that fit the needs of their family, with a simple clean look and classicstyle cabinetry. The kitchen now features white-lacquered cabinets and trim and a cheerful blue glass tile backsplash; it also takes advantage of an existing arched pass-through window, which serves as a small eat-at bar. A “signature” touch you added: Our signature touch was the simple, elegant bow-fronted, pass-through counter from the wet bar in the entertainment room that expands the seating space and adds a refined detail to that important element of the plan. The porthole windows in the entry and bedroom to refer to the building’s aquatic setting.
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ELISE DESIGN GROUP ELISE LANDSCAPES & NURSERY, LLC Interview with MARK W. HICKS/CHRIS ELKOW, eliselandscapes.com 530 Old Stamford Road New Canaan, CT, 203-966-3200
Main renovation objective: The focus of this award-winning project was the rear of the home. A steep slope limited use of the property and the landscape plan was unbalanced. The attractive house frontage needed proportional landscape balance. We designed multiple terraces cut into the hill at different levels, transforming unusable space to a special dining and entertaining area.
feature at their home in Maine, and we were pleased to bring a piece of Maine back to Connecticut for them to enjoy in their new landscape. Biggest challenge you faced: Limited access to rear of the home; steep hillside and nearby septic area made logistics challenging, but achieved with careful excavation and plan layout. A crane or helicopter would have helped, but we execute unique plans as practically as possible!
Favorite element of the renovation: Strategic recapture of difficult space. This area now sits directly behind the house with a built-in kitchen. Stepping onto the upper terrace, the smaller terrace is designed for relaxing and party overflow with a custom fireplace for ambience and extending the outdoor season.
A “signature� touch you added: Transforming spaces and difficult locales
into beautiful, value-added landscapes is our specialty. We provided the client with a unique entertaining oasis, complemented by a vegetable garden near the kitchen! Hillside perennials and grasses with paths soften the stone and add an area to explore. The clients were so pleased that they had interior architectural alterations done to enjoy the view.
A special request you executed: An element that was brought to our
attention was Old Moss fieldstone. This special type of stone is a key
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BEN KRUPINSKI BUILDER
Interview with CHRISTOPHER QUINN , bkbuilder.com 13 Arcadia Road, Suite 11-15 Old Greenwich, CT, 203-990-0633
personal and professional service for our clients post move-in as well, making sure they didn’t feel overwhelmed or alone.
Main renovation objective: A complete transformation from a spec
house to a custom home with stunning and superior quality detailing throughout.
Biggest challenge you faced: Addressing all the hidden structural defects throughout and putting the building back together in a fashion that we stand behind.
Budget: This project came in right at about 5 million dollars. Favorite element of the renovation: The complete transformation of
A special request you executed: We fabricated and installed custom
the front entry, including the finite detailing of the stair tower. We took a basic entrance and added a covered porch with a barrel ceiling, complemented by gas lanterns and a blue stone patio with integral LED step lights. The stair tower was reframed for the installation of new and striking windows with heavy timber brackets and a new slate roof with custom finial at the top—adding character and beauty to this home.
steel railings for the main circular staircase. These rails needed to be turned onsite and each piece fitted due to the completed adius.
A “signature” touch you added: The unwavering pursuit of always
trying to exceed our clients’ expectations. Our world-renowned project team went above and beyond to achieve a level of high quality that speaks for itself and has recently won a HOBI Award for Best Major Renovation.
How long the renovation took: The project took fifteen months from the
selective demolition to the clients’ move in. We provided a high level of JAN/FEB 2018
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SASCO FARMS LANDSCAPE DESIGN, INC.
Interview with DIANNA CUTLER , sascofarms.com PO Box 488 Southport, CT, 203-767-6305
Main renovation objective: Take a new construction space and create a timeless design that nods to the past with the classic style of relaxed formality.
planted the week before. When our team finally reached the home after the storm, there was NO damage to anything planted. We were all astonished at the destruction around the coast, while there was minimal damage to our fresh plantings. It was very lucky!
Favorite element of the renovation: The multi-sensory experience of the
cutting garden parterre. Gravel crunching, flowers in bloom wafting through the air, apples hanging off of the tree in the background beckoning to be eaten.
A special request you executed: Finding older apple trees. The homeowner had fond memories of eating apples as a child, specifically older arieties that are more difficult to find. The apple orchard peeking out in the rear of the image are forty-year-old heirloom apple trees from an upstate New York grower. There are six apple trees planted at the site in an orchard leading from the parterre area.
How long the renovation took: We began this renovation during the construction of the home. This enabled us to work with the builder, with respect to where his utilities would be located so that we could plan for future planting. In doing so, we afforded the homeowner our design eye to the construction phase.
A “signature� touch you added: A parterre. This was added towards
the end of the project as our design suggestion. The cutting garden parterre created a relaxed formality on the property and provided a special destination in the setting.
Biggest challenge you faced: A few days after all of the larger trees were
planted on the perimeter (a few are seen in the photo above) Hurricane Sandy visited CT. There were tractor-trailers of trees that had just been
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BEFORE PHOTOGRAPH BY WENDY MACDONALD; AFTER PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID SLOANE
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DAVENPORT CONTRACTING & HOME
Interview with BRIAN P. MACDONALD , davenportcontracting.com 78 Harvard Avenue Stamford, CT, 203-324-6308
bath reconfigured so that an upstairs laundry closet with a washer and dryer opens to the hallway. While reconfiguring the master bath, we combined several small closets in the bedroom to make a large fittedout walk-in closet. A skylight ensures a bright interior.
Main renovation objective: Wendy and Peter MacDonald purchased this house as their retirement home. As such, their “Wish List” included items and room functions different from those in the home in which they raised their family, such as the open kitchen/dining area shown above which eliminated the separate dining room. The renovation evolved from a hand-drawn plan in classic “well since we are already doing ...; since the wall is already opened up...”. In the end approximately fifty percent of the house was renovated. Homeowner Wendy MacDonald designed the revised interiors in collaboration with Davenport Home’s Jake Cleveland and Rob Jacobson. This partnership provided the flexibility to adapt and/ or rearrange as the plan evolved.
Biggest challenge you faced: The redesign of the interior of the house
needed to be accomplished within the existing footprint of the home. To accommodate the open floor plan, we reinforced sections of the existing house to carry the rearranged walls.
Favorite element of the renovation: Wendy MacDonald’s design
sought to achieve better flow and room function. The open floor plan, which presents itself as you enter the home, is the achievement of this new design. There is a logical flow as you move about in the spaces. Room entries were opened up and aligned to further a natural flow from room to room.
A special request you executed: Moving the laundry room from the
lowest level to the master bedroom level was a special request. The existing upstairs master bath had a hallway entry, plus a second entry from the master bedroom. The hall entry was closed off, and the interior of the JAN/FEB 2018
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GLENGATE COMPANY
Interview with JORDAN SCOTT AND BRANDON JONES , glengatecompany.com 221 Danbury Road Wilton, CT, 203-762-2211
the home and carriage house into the structure’s panels, hipped roof and eyebrow pergola, anchoring the structures to a renovated garden shed.
Main renovation objective: The owners of this five-acre property asked us
to re-interpret their garden and pool area to create a sense of architectural continuity and cohesion. This included re-imagining outbuildings, creating a more inviting entertainment-and-lifestyle-focused space, adding structures to provide shade, destination and a defined sense of space.
Favorite element of the renovation: The re-imagining of existing outbuildings into showcase amenities, the pavilion, eyebrow pergola, and converting the old garden shed into a fully functioning cabana with wet bar, outdoor shower and changing room. The concrete terrace that once surrounded the pool was replaced with gray granite that replicated materials used for the home’s front walkways.
How long the renovation took: Less than four months A special request you executed: When transforming dated outdoor spaces, it’s important to improve the family’s experience, strive to improve the family’s levels of comfort and familiarity and to make the property easier to navigate. It was also important to consider the existing site conditions as well as the physical characteristics of the home’s Colonial architecture and its environment, such as the adjacent mature forest. We created unity and movement with a stone path curving around existing mature trees and a pavilion as a focal point. We incorporated architectural details found on
A “signature” touch you added: Dominant characteristics, focal points, strong patterns, and strategically simple plant pallets that achieve harmony through distinguishing unique elements. The framework for the plant palette included mass plantings of hydrangeas, roses, and rhododendrons flanking woodland borders and a master plan for the renovated garden and pool’s ongoing care.
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SBP HOMES LLC
Interview with DORON SABAG AND JIM HOFFMAN , sbphomes.com 289 Selleck Street Stamford, CT, 203-323-2200
Main renovation objective: To transform a primitive storage barn into a
Biggest challenge you faced: On the technical side, there were two
Favorite element of the renovation: The views and the clean, open space are the most appealing parts of the barn. We added dormers and huge windows all around the first and second floors so that when you’re inside, you’re drawn to the windows and the surrounding landscape, which is spectacular in all four seasons. There’s no bad view—you can see one house off in the distance, but otherwise you’re just looking at the natural surroundings. And this makes it an incredibly peaceful spot. Because each floor is wide open space, the barn is incredibly versatile, too. The big open spaces work well for us day to day, but it can also work well as a large event space.
A “signature” touch you added: In Connecticut, where our clients tend to shy away from going completely contemporary, our signature seems to have become a traditional exterior with a more contemporary interior. This barn is a classic traditional barn from the exterior, but inside, it’s quite contemporary with white, black and concrete finishes.
sleek party barn with pool house, gym and yoga studio functions, and to assimilate it into its setting, providing views and access to the immediately surrounding gardens as well as views to the pond, fields and Audubon sanctuary in the distance. Our goal was to create a truly special environment in the barn that would become a “go-to” destination from the house.
big challenges. First was supporting the barn, sitting on dirt, while we poured proper concrete footings. Second was dealing with the natural ledge that surrounded the barn to get the gardens and pool site we wanted. On the design side, it was balancing the desire for big, open spaces with carving out enough space so the barn could function a bit as a real barn. It has its own mechanical room with 2,000-gallon water storage tanks for the property’s irrigation system, and the back side of the barn opens up to the outdoor tool shed, storage and potting area that also houses the mega generator for the property.
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JENNIFER ANDERSON DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
Interview with JENNIFER ANDERSON, jenniferanderson-designs.com 154 Belden Hill Road Wilton, CT, 203-834-9666
Favorite element of the renovation: Every landscape needs at least one
one patio to the next. An additional set of steps from the newly built upper deck provided a much-needed transition from inside to out.
focal point, like the gas fire bowl incorporated into the upper retaining wall and the rustic orb sculpture at the end of the pool.
A special request you executed: With so many outdoor rooms and
elevations to compete with, we were asked to keep the planting as simple as possible. We allowed for one small parterre garden next to the lounging patio and stuck to boxwoods for structure and hydrangeas and roses for seasonal color.
How long the renovation took: While the project took over six months to
complete, we timed the work so that the homeowners were ready for their first party by Memorial Day. The pool installation and masonry work were completed between late fall and winter, and that left only the planting and fence work for the spring.
A “signature” touch you added: The standard-size pool is a thing of
the past, especially if your kids are grown. This pool is 12’ x 36’ and at its deepest is 5’. The narrowness of the pool provides an elegant, streamlined look, and the long bench built into the pool wall is perfect for hanging out with friends and sipping a glass of wine! This new landscape has everything—multiple conversation and entertaining spaces, a beautifully executed garden design and a pool.
Biggest challenge you faced: The wish list for this project was a
challenge. Included were a covered entertainment/bar room, outdoor lounging area, room for a large dining table, and a pool. With limited space, steep slopes and town requirements to meet, we designed each “room” at a slightly different level. To accomplish this, fieldstone retaining walls were staggered to raise the grades, while a series of steps lead from
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RINFRET, LTD. INTERIOR DESIGN & DECORATION
Interview with CINDY RINFRET , rinfretltd.com 39 Lewis Street Greenwich, CT, 203-622-0000
Main renovation objective: The main renovation objective was to transform a boy’s dark bedroom into a fresh and light-filled guest bedroom suite. For a completely new look, the project included re-papering all walls, re-painting all woodwork and ceilings and adding new light fixtures, furnishings and window treatments, as well as new tile and plumbing in the adjoining bath.
Favorite element: Rinfret’s favorite feature of this space is the
Biggest challenge: The client’s choice of purple is an unusual color
Ltd. has been creating iconic interior design and defining true “Classic Greenwich Style” for three decades. Rinfret consistently is recognized with important design awards and editorial coverage every year. Most recently awarded by the A-List Awards and the Andrew Martin Interior Design Review in 2017, Rinfret’s full-service interior design business is additionally celebrated for its gorgeous new design studio at 39 Lewis Street in Greenwich.
show-stopper bed. This four-poster bed balances the height and scale of the room, while adding a touch of glamour. It helps to create an atmosphere where guests can feel like they are right at home.
About Cindy Rinfret: Cindy Rinfret, principal designer of Rinfret,
for a guest suite, but Rinfret managed to keep the room sophisticated, instead of saccharine, by keeping the major components very tonal, while adding color and pattern in the accessories. For the adjoining bathroom, Rinfret was determined to to find a natural marble tile that delivered a sophisticated aesthetic—no easy task when shopping for purple tile. JAN/FEB 2018
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SUSAN COHEN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Interview with SUSAN COHEN, susancohenlandscapes.com 199 Sound Beach Avenue Old Greenwich, CT, 203-554-7536
Main renovation objective: As part of a complete redesign of the existing landscape, the clients requested a white garden with touches of blue. Since the new landscape is mostly green, with masses of blue hydrangeas at the front entrance, this continuous color scheme provides a sense of harmony to the whole property. The generous flower border, which replaced an existing patch of shrubs, perennials and mulch, provides a lush and romantic garden for the owners to enjoy over a long season. The exuberance of the garden also provides a nice contrast to the simplicity and restraint that characterizes the rest of this landscape.
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Favorite element of the renovation: The flowers in this garden move in the breeze, which is essential for a garden by the sea. Also, the restrained color palette does not distract from the lovely view. A “signature” touch you added: The garden is in scale with the house. For me, getting the scale right is the most important part of any project.
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ARTEMIS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, INC
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Interview with TARA VINCENTA, artemisla.com 277 Fairfield Avenue Bridgeport, CT, 203-683-1808
Main renovation objective: Being part of the entertainment industry, our
clients love to throw a party. As part of a major addition to their home, they wanted to integrate and enhance all areas with a newly imagined outdoor entertaining area. The wish list included updating an existing pool and adding a year-round spa, a new deck and pergola, a sunken fire pit, a media wall, an outdoor kitchen and a custom kids’ play area.
Biggest challenge you faced: Challenges often become opportunities. Due to regulatory requirements, we had a very limited area to create a gracious outdoor living and entertaining space. We managed not only to fulfill the client’s wish list, but accomplished it in a way that feels seamless with the architecture and the site. A special request you executed: The original plans included a small outdoor grill area. As the project progressed the client increased the scope within a limited space. We were able to create a totally custom outdoor kitchen tucked against the house that answered all their needs.
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BEFORE &AFTER
IMAGE OVERHAUL THE THRILL OF A GOOD “before and after” CAN’T BE overrated. THERE’S SOMETHING SO compelling ABOUT WITNESSING POTENTIAL FULLY REALIZED, CHALLENGES ELEGANTLY SOLVED AND EXPECTATIONS FAR EXCEEDED. WHETHER STARTING WITH A BLANK SLATE OR A LACKLUSTER ROOM BEGGING FOR A REFRESH, THE right mix of talent and ingenuity CAN TAKE ANY SPACE FROM SO-SO TO STUNNING. HERE, A DOZEN DESIGN PROS show and tell HOW THEY’RE TRUE agents of change.
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Setting the scene: This is an elegant, classical Georgian house in backcountry Greenwich. We were hired to add architectural details to the interiors and update the décor. The family room, which is adjacent to the kitchen, has always functioned as the main hangout space for this family of six. There was insufficient seating, however, and the colors in the room and the sheers on the windows made the space feel a bit drab and dark. Design goal: To create an inviting, relaxing place for the family to gather and watch TV. Seating needed to be resistant to wear and tear but stylish enough to stack up to the rooms flowing into it. Launching point: The navy window treatments in Quadrille’s Lysette in reverse set the tone. There are notes of blue throughout the house.
so we selected a variety of textiles, primarily in shades of blue and orange, to add pops of color that contrast with the earthy stone and wood elements.
ranging from the Quadrille window treatments to the C&C Milano prints on the pillows, really brought the room to life.
Integration of existing pieces: The large square ottoman was the correct proportion, so we didn’t see a need to replace it. We simply covered it in a Holly Hunt leather that is the color of an Hermès box.
A special request fulfilled: The client really wanted a soft, plush rug. We custom-designed a wool rug with Holland & Sherry that fulfilled our aesthetic requirements and is also very durable.
The biggest challenge: The doublestory windows. Previously, the top windows were covered with blinds, and the French doors and flanking windows had non-functional drapery panels. We hung a drapery rod above the windows to unite the openings and to let in more natural light.
Resources: Interior designer: Carmiña Roth Interiors, LLC, 203-987-5961; carminarothinteriors.com
Favorite elements: The two wing chairs covered in a Galbraith & Paul handblocked printed velvet and the Franck Bohbot photograph from his “House of Books” series.
The details: We chose to keep a neutral backdrop because the room flows into the kitchen and up the back stairs to the upstairs hallways. We had to work with an existing monumental stone fireplace,
What made the biggest impact: The mix of patterns on the textiles,
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PHOTOGRAPHS: JANE BEILES; PORTRAIT: STEPHANE KOSSMANN
CARMIÑA ROTH
McKEE PATTERSON Achieving the openness of a gallery: We removed the old staircase, lengthened the front entry hall by seven feet and decreased the upper hall, which affords a larger viewing area from downstairs. Then, using glass rails, a floating staircase, single-stone treads and much better lighting, we provided the wall space and view lines the client was seeking.
Design goal: To provide clear sightlines to big wall space used for art and to provide good lighting. Because of the floor plan of the house, the upper hall needed to be bound by a hallway on the second
The details: Soft grays were used to offset the bold colors of the paintings.
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Large square quartzite stone on the floor in two subtle grays works with the stone treads and wall colors. What made the biggest impact: We enlarged and lengthened the front hall by removing a broom closet on the first floor and matched the gain on the second floor by making a closet smaller. Plus, we shrank the width of the surround second-floor balcony. These two changes drove this successful project. Resources: Architect: McKee Patterson, AIA, Austin Patterson Disston Architects, Southport; 203-255-4031; apdarchitects.com Builder: Eric Kotonski, EK Construction, Wilton; 203-856-0376
PHOTOGRAPHS: JEFF MCNAMARA; PORTRAIT: CHICHI UBINA
floor. The intent was to be able to see the art from downstairs even though the railing for the upper balcony was intruding into the sightline. Truly, our goal was to create an art gallery.
Setting the scene: The original owner created a Southwest/New Mexico feel for this traditional house. Our client wanted the interiors to reflect their modernist sensibilities, which in turn would complement their art collection. Before, when you entered the front foyer, there was an intrusive and overly heavy wooden stair that was much larger than necessary for the space. Everything—the small opening in the floor above, remaining floor space and oversize stairwell—felt cramped.
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PORTRAIT: NEIL LANDINO JR.
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AMY AIDINIS HIRSCH Setting the scene: This home is a classic Georgian with a traditional footprint. The library was smothered in knotty pine. The pine had an orange hue, and the room felt country. The lighting was reminiscent of a colonial period despite the home being fairly new. The details: Looking for the opposite, I wanted to introduce a warm putty gray on the walls and a darker gray on the coffered ceiling. The true art form of lacquer was performed, with weeks of sanding, spraying and polishing to achieve the ultra-high sheen. The objective was clean and fresh. Integration of existing elements: The client has great quality pieces, and each one has a nice silhouette; they just needed to be revitalized. I reupholstered the bridgewater sofa, salvaged two tufted chairs, which were hiding in other areas of the house, and repurposed the deco lamps and marble coffee table that are dynamite. New Lucite-andnickel light fixtures were introduced
along with a modern graphite grid carpet, and abstract art with hints of aubergine and copper was sourced above the mantel. The fireplace is the focal point as you enter—keeping the black absolute hearth, I incorporated an enormous clear glass fireplace screen to maintain simplicity.
cabinetry connects back to the nickel chandelier. Plus, the placement of the hardware isn’t typical—why follow the norm? Biggest challenge: When eliminating grain and knots within a wood species, it’s essential to prep, prep, prep, which means time.
A special feature: The room is wellbalanced and symmetrical, and the space is quaint. I love how the lacquer is offset by the wool upholstery from Loro Piana, and the organization of the books and accessories allows the space to breathe. Providing a lighter tone on the walls and grounding the carpet in a darker tone make the space feel larger than it actually is.
Favorite element: It’s all about the lacquer, more so because I know what is underneath it and how difficult it was to successfully cover. The process is so arduous; I can appreciate the craftsmanship needed to achieve the overall effect. Resources: Interior designer: Amy Aidinis Hirsch Interior Design, LLC, Greenwich; 203-661-1266; amyhirsch.com
What made the biggest impact: The old saying “less is more” is so true—eliminate the nonessentials and look for the foundation pieces that bring character. We used overscaled zebra pillows for pattern, and the use of decorative hardware centered on the lower
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Resources: Interior designer: Liliane Hart Interiors, New York City; 646-490-3449; lilianehart.com Builder: Conover Restorations, Edgartown, MA; 508-627-3844
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LILIANE HART Setting the scene: This Shingle-style gambrel is located on the water, and the living room was decorated in a blueand-white nautical theme. The floor plan consisted of six chairs gathered around the fireplace and a small coffee table. There was a console on one wall and a cabinet on the adjacent wall. Design goal: To create a more comfortable, usable space and for the furniture to be casual, slipcovered and white. The client requested a soft, beachy look with an emphasis on relaxed furnishings and bleached furniture. We opened up the room by specifying a much larger rug than what was originally there, and we dressed the windows with unlined, billowy curtains.
PHOTOGRAPHS: CARTER BERG; PORTRAIT: ANNIE WATTS
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The details: The color palette is white, beige, sand, soft greens, grays and blues. We used hand-painted wallpapers, hand-blocked fabrics, cotton ticking, bleached oak, brass and accents of ebonized and inlaid wood throughout. Integration of existing elements: The house was purchased unfurnished. We kept the floors intact but removed the reddish tone, replacing it with a
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mellow brown that accents the whites and bleached woods beautifully. We incorporated an artisan-made shell chest that the clients had in their living room in New York City. When we moved the chest to this new house, it felt like it had finally found its home. The biggest challenge: This room has very little usable wall space to anchor a seating arrangement. There are two large openings—one into the adjacent entry hall, and the other into the dining room. Another wall consists of six French doors, and the fourth wall houses the fireplace with a door on either side. The biggest challenge was creating an intimate seating area around the fireplace while keeping the living room open and airy. What made the biggest impact: I like the placement of the sofa. It defines the room while still keeping the space open and encouraging the flow of the adjoining rooms. We also simplified the elevation of the fireplace by eliminating the columns, creating a traditional fireplace surround for a summer home and using art over the mantel instead of a mirror.
MELISSA LINDSAY + TERRY SCARBOROUGH Setting the scene: ML: This home reflects a design with high drama and a daring mix of color and pattern. TS: Although the former kitchen was white, it was very dated, with pilasters and awkward open shelving by the window. Traffic flow was hampered due to the peninsula, and there was a very small island consumed by a cooktop. Design goal: TS: To make the design updated, transitional and functional with beautiful materials. Moving the cooking center to the wall as a focal point launched the layout changes we made.
Starting fresh: TS: Everything is new except the wood flooring, which was refinished and stained. ML: Everything had to go. I don’t even think the client kept the dishes! The details: TS: We went with a neutral palette. The cabinets are in Benjamin Moore’s Collingwood, a very soft taupe, and metal accents on the hood, faucets and hardware are polished nickel. A special feature: TS: The quartzite stone is the star. It was so beautiful, we used it as a full backsplash as well. ML: A deep color isn’t typically associated with a kitchen, but we went bold in the breakfast room. We before treated it like a little jewel box, and it has great visual impact.
The biggest challenge: TS: There was a support column hidden behind a pilaster by the oven and refrigerator that we couldn’t remove, so we buried it in the back of a pantry unit. ML: Our goal was to create a dynamic play on cool tones (like soft gray and stainless steel) with warm brass tones. The breakfast room is moody with saturated color, the kitchen has soft grays, and brass is the magic ingredient that visually connects the two spaces. Favorite element: ML: The custom light fixtures above the island make me happy every time I walk in. They not only add drama but provide the perfect dose of brass to balance the mixed metals in the space.
What made the biggest impact: ML: The client loves wallpaper and pattern, so when she said she wanted to go bold in the breakfast room, it was music to my ears! The geometric wallcovering introduced a beautiful bluegray to the space, which we played up with indigo blue upholstery on the vintage horn chairs (which are another favorite element!). Resources: Interior designer: Melissa Lindsay, Pimlico Interiors, New Canaan; 203-972-8166; pimlicointeriors.com Designer: Terry Scarborough, Deane, Inc., New Canaan; 203-972-8836; deaneinc.com Stone: Fordham Marble, Stamford; 203-348-5088; fordhammarble.com
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PHOTOGRAPHS: SAM FROST; PORTRAITS: SANG AN
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JESSE CARRIER + MARA MILLER Setting the scene: This classic 1920s center-hall Colonial served as a beacon for a family who had been temporarily living abroad with plans to return to roost stateside. The living room looked like that classic “formal room” that only gets used during holidays. It was sad, a little dark and foreboding, with a tight furniture arrangement around the fireplace that kept you out of the room. It had also become the dumping ground for many of the clients’ treasures that they weren’t sure what to do with.
The details: There was already an abundance of beautiful, polished “brown furniture” at our disposal, so to offset the weight that often comes with those pieces, we used pale neutrals and creams, cottons, linens and raffia to contrast and lighten the room. These materials also helped to make the room feel more livable and less “formal.”
Design goal: To engage the room with the rest of the house and make it a place they would use (and want to use) all the time. We did this by introducing lighter colors and less formal materials, like sisal rugs, linen slipcovers, a raffia ottoman and printed cotton curtains. We opened up the floor plan for better flow and added balance by introducing some cleaner, more contemporary pieces to mix with some of our clients’ more traditional and antique pieces.
Favorite element: The unique personality created by incorporating our clients’ antiques and artwork. It’s a true reflection, filled with integrity versus “fluff.”
Launching point: Our clients are design enthusiasts with a larger collection of design magazines than we had, so there was a lot to see and discuss. While they admired and collected traditional things, they didn’t want their home to look or feel like a museum. They wanted something fresh, light and comfortable. These were our marching orders.
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The biggest challenge: Creating a versatile floor plan that works for as little as two and as many as twelve!
A special request fulfilled: “Must keep the bar.” What made the biggest impact: The decision to keep the space neutral was difficult, as our clients and we tend to like color, but we feel this made the most impact. Resources: Interior designer: Carrier and Company Interiors, Ltd., New York City; 212-7061025; carrierandcompany.com
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ALANA IRWIN Design goal: I was drawn to the idea of making this a midcentury lounge for entertaining and relaxing. The clients and I have a love for midcentury design, so I wanted to incorporate as many details from that era as I could. Launching point: I had a replica of a midcentury sofa custom-made in a gorgeous navy velvet. Since the room is long, it was important to get the scale of the sofa proportionate to the room. The details: After selecting the fabric for the sofa, I found an amazing Mis-
soni fabric that I had made into an extra-long lumbar pillow for the sofa. I decided to incorporate those colors into the design, so there are pops of purple, magenta, yellow and navy throughout the room. I found the blue silk rug at a design show in New York City, and I sourced the plexi art from Lulu DK in London. She worked with me to obtain the exact colors I was looking to incorporate into the room.
main lounge space, there are multiple seating areas for relaxing and entertaining. Since the clients have children, I wanted everything to be accessible to them, so most of the fabrics are Crypton, which means they’re not only pretty but practical. Favorite element: The coffee table. I love the contrast of the espresso wood and the ivory, and the lacquered trays are removable when serving drinks.
A special feature: The multiple entertaining areas. To the far left, I created a bar area with a vintage Milo Baughman console and two Karl Springer-inspired ottomans. Moving to the right, you find a Lucite game table, the perfect place to play checkers with the children or cards with adults. And as you move to the
The biggest challenge: The slanted ceiling and lack of any architectural element. The long room needed a focal point, so I presented the idea of creating a feature wall with a gas fireplace and bookshelves, which I had built. To take your eye away from the shape of
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the far wall, we hung a giant vintage Charlie Chaplin poster, which draws your eyes to the art and not the shape of the room. Resources: Interior designer: Alana Irwin, Combined Interiors, New Canaan; 203536-6216; combinedinteriorsct.com Builder: AVM Construction, Stamford; 203-904-3883
PHOTOGRAPHS: JANE BEILES
Setting the scene: This is an older home from the 1970s. This room was a huge, empty space with some scattered toys for the clients’ children to play with.
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Design goal: The bathroom had been overlooked during a larger home renovation. We wanted to modernize it so it would mimic the new renovated home.
sink creates visual interest and an element of surprise consistent with the whimsical architectural style of the Storybook home.
The biggest challenge: Creating a striking, sophisticated design with similar elements to the rest of the renovated home without making the space too serious since it’s a kids’ bath.
PHOTOGRAPHS: JANE BEILES; PORTRAIT: NEIL LANDINO JR.
Setting the scene: This 1916 residence was built in the Storybook style popularized during that period. The steeplypitched roof with a dramatic overhang gives the home a sense of playfulness and whimsy. This kids’ bathroom lacked any style—it was a simple, utilitarian space in the home.
The details: The timeless black-andwhite décor is clean and uncluttered, like the rest of the home, and was achieved by using neutrals and carefully selected elements like the sink and a postmodern Danish chair.
Favorite element: The black-framed windowpane shower door adds definition to the expanse of white while making the smaller space look lofty. What made the biggest impact: The black Kohler single wall-mounted
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Resources: Interior designer: Megan Wunderlich, DesignDot, New Canaan; 203-331-5787; thedesigndot.com Architect: Louise Brooks, Brooks & Falotico, New Canaan; 203-966-8440; brooksandfalotico.com Builder: Richard Rosano, RRBuilders, New Canaan; 203-972-6100; rrbuilders.com athomefc.com
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SUSAN GLICK Setting the scene: This home is an updated and modern spin on a classic. The “before” photo of this bar says it all—it was a very dated Colonial design that didn’t fit with the clients’ lifestyle nor the design of the rest of the home.
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PHOTOGRAPHS: CONTRIBUTED; PORTRAIT: NEIL LANDINO JR.
Design goal: The clients entertain often, and they wanted a sleeker, uncluttered modern bar that reflects their aesthetic. For a sophisticated look, we selected every element with that goal in mind. Launching point: We updated the family room that the bar area is set into. Once we finished the family room, it was glaringly obvious we needed to proceed to the bar! We kept a very keen eye on flow when updating the bar due to the open floor plan. The details: We kept the color palette neutral with charcoal walnut cabinetry and a white wavy, textured focal wall. We mixed metal finishes—polished nickel and stainless steel—and then added light reflective details for a layered effect. The custom floating shelves trimmed in stainless steel and
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minimal lighting added just the right touch of elegance. A unique feature: The focal wall. Wavy porcelain tile adds the perfect amount of texture to the sleek space. It’s the art on the wall. Integration of existing elements: We repurposed the existing lower cabinetry by redesigning all of the door fronts to feature a low-profile recessedpanel design. What made the biggest impact: Removing the existing cabinets on the back wall and replacing them with the textured wall and floating shelves. The biggest challenge: Reconfiguring the lighting, which turned out to have a simple solution—we added minimalist pendants that wouldn’t obstruct the view of the focal wall. Resources: Interior designer: Susan Glick Interiors, Westport; susanglickinteriors.com
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Resources: Architect, builder and interior designer: Alisberg Parker, Old Greenwich; 203-6378730; alisbergparker.com athomefc.com
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PHOTOGRAPHS: WES TARCA; PORTRAIT: MELANI LUST
SUSAN ALISBERG Setting the scene: We renovated and added to this Georgian home to fit the lifestyle of a young family. The living room was tired with furnishings from the 1990s. There were multiple doors and windows, radiators and beams in awkward spots and a buildup of years of paint. The only parts of the original space that remain are the fireplace and the mantel. Design goal: This room was rebuilt as part of the large renovation and addition. Although we created a home with casual and comfortable
living spaces, we retained a more formal feel in here. Launching point: We started with the bright green Phillip Jeffries grasscloth, and then coordinated a calmer, softer palette for the balance of the elements. The space is fresh, bright and contemporary but still warm. What made the biggest impact: The grasscloth—it has a lot of energy and feels young and modern. Using a grasscloth rather than paint added texture and enriched
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the green’s effect, and we introduced very deep navy and soft blues and grays to bring a striking color palette together. The bold color takes this classic living room and enlivens it. These greens and blues are also repeated throughout the first floor and integrate the interior design. Biggest challenge: We opened the living room to the adjacent enclosed porch. We wanted the room to integrate easily with the porch, so we located the furnishings to accommodate this flow.
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Integration of existing elements: The only existing pieces are the two large rubbings that were created by our client’s grandmother when she traveled to England many years ago. We had them framed. A special feature: This space feels modern, yet most of the elements are quite traditional. A special request fulfilled: We took this Georgian Colonial and adapted it to fit the needs of a modern young family.
PHOTOGRAPHS: EMILY GILBERT; PORTRAIT: PEGGY GARBUS
ROBIN HENRY Setting the scene: My clients were making the move into the suburbs from Manhattan. The wife had honed a vibrant, worldly look, so I happily channeled her vibe. This bedroom was a cavernous space—aside from one fullsize window, the only others were a row of clerestory windows in an alcove. It was an unusual setup. Design goal: To make this bedroom cozier and warmer while also speaking to its generous proportions. Launching point: I knew I wanted to use the same fabric for the walls and curtains. Since we needed a large number of yardage, I had in mind an inexpensive Indian block print from Les Indiennes. To match the scale of the room, we chose a large-scale paisley. It highlights the room’s proportions to dramatic effect yet draws you in. The details: A natural indigo pigment is irresistible and almost functions as a neutral in my book. I knew a lot of different accent colors would complement it, from aubergine to ochre to midnight blue. A big, bold space needs some big, bold color, so we chose firecracker red.
Integration of existing elements: Everything is new except for the lighting. There’s a wonderful blue glass Moroccan lantern my clients bought in Marrakech, and family heirloom lamps grace the bedside tables. What made the biggest impact: My clients intended to reuse their old bed, but halfway through the install, they decided to get something new. We got a handmade Charles H. Beckley bed, complete with box springs upholstered on-site, and a horsehair mattress. In this and in all bedrooms, the bed is everything! Favorite element: The red chinoiserie secretary was a lucky score. It’s vintage, with a lovely patina and perfectly aged mirror in the doors, and that color! I chanced upon it at the opening of the Lexington Avenue Armory Antique Show. It was a leap of faith by my clients to make the sale so quickly, but I’m so glad; it doesn’t get any better. Resources: Interior designer: Robin Henry Studio, Westport; 646-409-3099; robinhenrystudio.com
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PHOTOGRAPHS: JANE BEILES; PORTRAIT: LORIN KLARIS
TINA ANASTASIA Setting the scene: This room is an intermediate space between what was originally a bedroom and a sitting room. Since the clients’ children are twins, we thought a playroom between two bedrooms would make sense both now and in the future. We made the playroom symmetrical on both sides of the French doors by adding a bath into the bedroom on the right. The details: We wanted to go happy and bright. We placed the colorful “birds on a wire” print above the windows, and that kicked off the color scheme. We wanted some type of fort, but since a tent is too typical, finding the geodesic dome was a hit. We bought the blownglass balloons above it in the corner from Italy, and we had a decorative painter paint the colorful dots on the ceiling. We built out the remainder of the pieces, including an orange sofa and green metal chairs, from there, with Benjamin Moore’s Stem Green on the
walls and a layering of colorful rugs, one a comfy shag, and the other a flatter one so toys don’t fall into it and get lost. A unique feature: We were going to put wallpaper on the ceiling, but we didn’t want seams, and we wanted all of the colors represented. So we hired Chinon Maria to paint all of those dots on the ceiling by hand! Favorite element: The geodesic dome—it’s open and bright inside, and we like the cozy, padded pie-shaped floor. We also like the storage cabinet with colorful bins from Ikea—something so simple became so useful for toy storage, and it looks great, too. What made the biggest impact: At first, we thought that with all of the color in the room, white walls would be best, but we realized that color needs color. Painting the walls Stem Green made everything come to life.
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Resources: Interior designers: Tina Anastasia and Katie Schelle, Mark P. Finlay Interiors, Southport; 203-254-2388; markfinlayinteriors.com
interview with cl aire paquin, clean design | phot o gr apher regan wo od
Good Moves A GREENWICH HOME maximizes ITS SIZE BY minimizing WALLS AND EMBRACING A new flow
Benjamin Moore’s Big Country Blue on the front door is a dynamic addition to the new white façade.
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left: A second-floor addition in the rear of the home houses a new master bedroom. Cable railings and teak handrails are modern touches on the outdoor decks. right top: A hide rug from Stark and the “Rocket” artwork by Jill S. Krutick greet visitors in the foyer. “We opened up the existing staircase a few steps to make it feel a bit grander, and we changed the railing,” says Paquin. right bottom: Shades of aqua and chartreuse comprise the fresh color palette. “The wife wasn’t afraid of color, and with two young children, she wanted a vibrant look.”
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the entire load-bearing wall between the living room and dining room and switching the layout around. I wanted to keep the living room where it was (and where it currently is), but I wanted to move the kitchen to where the dining room was because that area is much bigger and brighter. I then wanted to put an eating area, pantry and powder room where the old kitchen was.
What is the back story on this house? The clients are a young family
with two young daughters, and they had been living in this home for a few years and wanted to modernize it. It was very dated, tired and kind of sad-looking. It was stucco with shutters and a little roof over the front door, and it had no street presence. It’s a foursquare, and the kitchen and foyer were in the two smallest squares, and the living room and dining room were in the two larger squares. The area off the kitchen was like a rabbit warren, with a closet, pantry and a full bath, with a very odd shape. The clients are really a fun, young family, and I just didn’t see them living with this layout.
What did the clients think of this plan? They were worried about taking down the wall and losing the fireplace in favor of the open concept. But I think they realized that given the way they live, and the fact that they’re casual, easy-going people, they didn’t want the layout chopped up. The other thing the clients really prioritized was natural light—they wanted
What was your vision for updating it? I really advocated for taking down
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A David Trubridge light fixture offers an airy feel in the new living room. The sofa is covered in microfiber velvet for easy cleaning, nesting cocktail tables are wrapped in leather for durability, and the “Eames rocking chairs were a really fun choice,” says Paquin. opposite top: In the kitchen, a stainless-steel counter by MetalCraft tops the island. Paquin opted to forgo window treatments here for a cleaner look. opposite bottom: Custom walnut built-ins by Henry Agudelo with hardware by Lisa Jarvis provide seating and storage. The “Wave” artwork above is by Jill S. Krutick. athomefc.com
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“This house has everything the clients need, but it’s compact in a really nice way. ” —claire paquin
as many windows and as much light as possible. I think once they saw how much light would pass through the house, that pushed them over the edge to do it. Did you work with any design professionals to make these changes?
We worked with a builder and a cabinetmaker, and in the end, I think we struck a nice balance between maintaining the integrity of the home while modernizing it for a young family. We didn’t expand the footprint of the first floor, and we worked within the confines of the historical structure; we just updated it for today’s living. After removing the wall and changing the layout, how else did you maximize the amount of natural light? We put in a complete bank of windows in the new kitchen. You’ll notice there’s no upper cabinetry; it’s all windows. I desperately wanted the sashes to be black—I feel you can see the view out of black windows better than white ones. The husband was initially against it, but now they love it; I think it makes the space pop. It’s a very simple kitchen with nothing really pizzazz-y about it except for those black windows. They’re stunning. The flooring was a big debate as
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below left: In the lower level, a new mudroom with streamlined storage serves as the main entry for the family. The full bath is convenient for overnight guests staying in one of the two rec rooms. below right: Bold blue cabinets in the laundry room are paired with Recessed wallpaper in Limelight from Studio Printworks.
The location of the former kitchen now houses an eating area designed for both everyday use and more formal occasions. Comfortable white leather-wrapped chairs are seated at a modern table with splayed legs, and the gray custom built-in console features a Marmara marble top. In the corner, an awkward and unneeded access point to the staircase upstairs was closed up during the renovation.
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well, but given their propensity for natural light, we went with a natural white oak throughout the house. Any layout changes upstairs? We put an addition on the second floor—
we bumped it out and moved the master bedroom into this new space. This addition also changed the roofline over the powder room and kitchen area, and we were able to add more windows in the back. Before, there was only one bathroom upstairs in the hallway, so we created a proper master suite with a decent-sized bedroom, a walk-in closet and a really nice bath—that’s a huge improvement in the house. The kids’ bathroom was where the new master bedroom is now, so we relocated it. By removing the living room fireplace, we gained space on the second floor as well. Did you also revamp the lower level? There was originally just a laundry
and two rec rooms down there. We created two good-sized rec rooms, a laundry, a mudroom and a full bath. We enclosed an exterior storage area and turned that into the bath, reconfigured the layout of the laundry, put in an entryway and made a really nice mudroom. We also put a stone veneer on the outside. The home’s exterior received quite a facelift. The interesting thing was that there were originally no plans to change it. After I started the project,
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I thought, “The wife is really modern and wants things simple and clean, and this exterior is just terrible.” So I suggested we re-clad the exterior and change it from a stucco home to a modern farmhouse. It was more money, but I think it was some of the best-spent money. We got rid of the shutters, beefed up the casing on the exterior windows and added modern lighting, a fresh, electric-blue front door and a copper roof over the front door and the porch. That porch was an enclosed three-season room, and it felt like an eyesore. We opened it up and did cable railings, and it feels so much better. Looking at the exterior before and after, it’s a huge difference. It really makes me happy because it reflects the wife’s personality, and that bright pop of neon blue is so her.
What was your favorite part of this project? I love the exterior, and I
didn’t think that was going to happen. Now, the home makes sense, and it’s cohesive. You see the outside and think, “I know what I’m going to get inside.” What was so great about this renovation is that this is small living, but it’s really well-designed small living. None of the rooms are huge, but the important ones are big—the kitchen and living area—and the master bedroom is broken up into the important zones of sleeping, closet and storage, and bathroom. This house has everything the clients need, but it’s compact in a really nice way. —interview by lauren fetterman Resources: Interior designer: Clean Design, Scarsdale; 914-725-0995; cleandesignpartners.com
What made the biggest difference in this renovation? Taking down the living room wall and moving the kitchen. We could have kept the kitchen where it was and made it beautiful, but it would have been tiny and awkward. Moving it was the single most important thing we did.
General contractor: Bill Mezzano, Mezzano’s Shoreline Construction, North Haven; 203-214-9886; mezzanosshorelineconstructionllc.com Millwork: Henry Agudelo Architectural Woodworking; 914-804-1920
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In this new lower-level haven, sophisticated yet durable vinyl Linkfloor flooring from Porcelanosa is underfoot, and antique reclaimed wood appears throughout the space for added warmth.
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interview with eileen deschapelles | phot o gr apher jane beiles
Game Changer AN unfinished BASEMENT IS CONVERTED INTO A cozy retreat FIT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Let’s set the scene—tell me about this space.
This family home is a traditional Colonial built in 2005 and decorated in a transitional style. The basement was unfinished, and the homeowners’ two young boys used to ride their scooters around in it. There were two swings hanging from the rafters, a trampoline and a ball pit. It was the perfect space for the boys and their friends to play on rainy and snowy days. What did you envision for its transformation?
I wanted a cozy space for the family that would also function well for entertaining. The boys were growing up, and the basement needed to be reinterpreted to meet the family’s changing needs. They wanted a spot to watch movies, a small kitchen area, a bar, pool table, craft room, exercise room and an additional bath. What materials and colors did you select?
We used an amazing vinyl Linkfloor product from Porcelanosa in a gray wash on the floor. Antique reclaimed wood added warmth in a custom built-in, kitchen shelves, bar, table and benches. The space is painted Farrow & Ball’s Dimpse, and the ceiling, doors and custom cabinetry are painted Down Pipe. Did you mix in any existing pieces? Apart from
the vintage worktable that serves as the craft room island, we started from scratch. That table holds special memories for the wife because it had been her father’s workbench.
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above: A full bath is conveniently tucked under the stairs and across from the exercise room. right: Outfitted with brass hardware, the clean-lined kitchen and bar area are primed for family get-togethers. below: The cozy reading nook was a special request and is now a favorite spot.
This reading nook is the older son’s favorite spot to read.
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top: A vintage worktable onced owned by the wife’s father has been repurposed as the craft room island; a velvet sectional and comfortable throw pillows set the scene for movie nights. above: The exercise room can be conveniently closed off with a glass-windowed barn door when needed; natural light floods into the space thanks to a new bank of large well windows.
Any unique touches you included? Both the
husband and wife were born in July and are Cancers, and the crab motif can be found throughout the house. Greenwich Tile & Marble custom-made a lovely mother-of-pearl crab tile that’s incorporated into the kitchen backsplash. It’s a small detail, but it tells their story.
What decision made the biggest impact?
Before, this basement had three tiny windows near the ceiling that let in very little natural light. The decision to excavate and put in a bank of three large well windows was a total game changer in the space.
Did the clients have a special request you were able to fulfill? The homeowner insisted on in-
cluding a reading nook under the stairs. The contractor and I weren’t sure if there would be enough room for it, but now it’s the older son’s favorite spot to read.
What is your favorite element in here?
I really love the barn doors with glass. They make the space feel open yet allow the craft room and exercise room to be closed off so many activities can be taking place in the space at the same time. —interview by lauren fetterman
Did you encounter any challenges during the design process? Making the space warm and
inviting. It’s a large space with high ceilings. By incorporating rich colors, reclaimed wood, a velvet sectional, brass hardware, texture, interesting textiles and unique lighting, we achieved the look and feel we were going for.
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Resources: Interior designer: Eileen Deschapelles Interior Design; 203-561-9314; edinteriordesign.com Contractor: Nelson Segovia, Nelson S. Construction; 917-559-7615
right: Previously located on the far right-hand side of the house, the kitchen was outdated and lacked functionality.
left: The fireplace in the large master bedroom impeded the flow of the room. opposite top left: An asphalt roof and tired shingles both needed replacing on the exterior.
right: Although not part of the original plan, the master bath was gutted. opposite bottom left: The living room had been used only for formal entertaining by the previous owners.
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big book of
BEFORE BEFORE &AFTER &AFTER
MAJOR MAKEOVER
interview with l aur a tu tun, l tu tun interiors & fr ank marsell a, marsell a + knoetgen architects | phot o gr apher amy vischio
WORTH THE WAIT A thoughtful renovation and one-of-a-kind details revive this timeless Rye home
above: The powder room plays host to a Waterworks basin, a custom iron mirror through Lucy Smith Designs and a Circa Lighting fixture. opposite top: “The new cedar shingle roof added such a nice texture and scale to a house that’s pretty simple—it brought it up to another caliber,” says Marsella. “It was one of the biggest changes to the outside that was worth every penny.” opposite bottom right: A pair of eighteenth-century drawings from Italy and antique convex mirrors line the refurbished foyer and stairwell; leopard print fabric runs up the stairs and onto the second floor. “The family has two dogs, so we needed a fabric that could hide dog prints; that’s how we came up with the animal print,” says Tutun.
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outside of the house, the location and the grounds—they loved the style of the house; it’s a gorgeous piece of property on the golf course; and it has great curb appeal and charm with a very romantic gravel driveway. You feel like Cary Grant will walk out the front door at any moment!
You’ve both worked with these clients before. What is your history with them? Frank Marsella: This is my third project for them, and they’re won-
derful to work with. They’ve always had their eyes on this house and dreamed of buying it, and they belong to the golf club it’s located on. Laura Tutun: This is the second home I’ve done with them. I had recently finished their first house when this property went on the market, and the husband’s dream was always to live on a golf course. They loved the outside of it, but the interior was something else!
When did you both come on board for the project? FM: The clients took me through the house after they had an accepted offer, and we talked about renovating it. LT: I came on after the blueprints were signed off and construction was ready to begin. The clients are casual people—which probably makes sense when you see the pool table in the living room!—and I had just decorated an entire house for them, so we were in sync with how they wanted this house to look and feel. They wanted every room to have a
What drew them to this particular house? LT: It was one of those great Old World, beautifully landscaped houses you want to inherit because there was very little to do landscape-wise. They really purchased it for the
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above left: In the living room, a custom brass fireplace screen from L Tutun Interiors is an elegant focal point. Roman shades in a Rogers & Goffigon cream wool fabric dress the windows, and the built-in shelves are lined with seagrass and trimmed in brass. Throw pillows in Elizabeth Eakins fabric top the sofa, and custom hand-knotted rugs are through J.D. Staron. top right: A pair of custom banquettes in Pindler & Pindler fabric offers comfy seating during games of pool. bottom right: The pool table from Blatt Billiards is covered in a custom blue felt.
The “jewel box” dining room is surrounded in Gracie wallpaper and crowned with a Made Goods chandelier. “You don’t even need to buy art once you have those Gracie panels,” says Tutun. A J.D. Staron rug provides soft texture. opposite: Designed by Deane, Inc., the butler’s pantry is a stunning combination of finishes, textures and colors. The vintage highball glasses from Culver were a housewarming gift from Tutun to the clients.
above right: Rather than more typical Shaker-style cabinetry, Tutun created a custom door style and crown. “The bevel is actually angled. We wanted to echo that in the crown molding. so I had the carpenter on-site do an angled molding that mimics that detail.” opposite: Custom counter stools in black leather from Lucy Smith Designs offer ample seating at the island, and an Arteriors light fixture is overhead. Black-grouted subway tile carries up and around the windows, and a gold-toned Phillip Jeffries wallpaper complements the unlacquered brass toe kick and hardware.
purpose, and it was more a conversation about how we could incorporate pieces I had purchased for the home we had just done into this new home, where a lot of the rooms were much larger than the house they were coming from.
remained in their existing locations. We were most aggressive with the right side. How so? FM: The kitchen, butler’s pantry, laundry, a guest bedroom, a bathroom and a staircase that led to the second floor were in this area. The bathroom was too small, the staircase way too steep, the kitchen faced the front of the house, and the butler’s pantry was larger than you would expect. We removed all of the interior walls in this area and reconfigured it to include a guest bedroom where the kitchen used to be, a bathroom for the bedroom, a laundry room and a comfortable secondary staircase. We then occupied the rear portion with a family room with large openings to the backyard and the golf course.
With a renovation in mind, did the clients even move in? FM: No. With
things like plaster walls, old radiators, old plumbing fixtures, cast-iron piping and an old steam-heating system, the home definitely needed an overhaul. LT: It would have been almost impossible for them to live in the house the way it was, due to just how bad the electrical and plumbing were. FM: I believe the house was built in the ’20s or ’30s. The right side looked like it was renovated in the ’80s, while the rest looked fairly original. We rewired and insulated the entire house, replaced all the windows and the heating and cooling systems, put on a new cedar roof and reskinned with new cedar shingle. We maintained some features, and several rooms
The kitchen looks amazing. What updates were made? FM: The clients
wanted a larger, more open kitchen that was more centrally located. The kitchen had been on the far right-hand side of the house, so it was pretty
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“AT THE END OF THE DAY, I THINK THIS HOUSE COMPLETELY CHECKS OFF ALL THE BOXES.” —laura tutun
this spread: The new breakfast area now faces the front of the property, and an existing fireplace was updated with a new mantel and bronze surround. Rich hardwood flooring also runs throughout the first and second floors. “We have a lot of area rugs because we really wanted to show that beautiful wood,” Tutun says.
awkward having it be that far from the dining room and living room. We relocated it so it faced the back of the house, and the breakfast area shifted to the front. LT: The kitchen layout was by Deane, and then I tweaked some things in the layout. I chose the hardware, countertops, backsplash, lighting and plumbing fixtures. The wife and I fell in love with these slabs of statuary marble that we used for the island and the perimeter counters. We both love unlacquered brass, so we selected that for the hardware, lined the back of the two little niches in the upper cabinets with it and did a great unlacquered brass toe kick. The fireplace in the breakfast area was existing, but I designed a new mantel and that really beautiful bronze surround with bronze rivets, which were a nod to the rivets in the hood.
Other changes to the first floor? FM: Everything to the left of the front
door is the living room, and it’s really large. It had very nice original base molding and casing around the doors, so we replicated what was there and created an opening between the living room and dining room to join those spaces. LT: The living room is enormous and typical of the time when it was built, and the issue was trying to figure out what to do with it. It’s off the back patio, and I thought it would have a nice entertaining flow with the dining room, so I threw out the idea of a pool table. I didn’t know how receptive the clients would be, but they loved it. They really wanted this room to be used, and they never thought they would put a pool table in the living room and a TV above the fireplace, but that’s what happened! They use
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left: Wrapped in Strata Study wallpaper from Zak+Fox, a full bath off the family room also serves the first-floor guest bedroom. below and opposite: In the family room, a cozy reading area is set up with an Arteriors floor lamp and club chairs in Romo fabric with Samuel & Sons leather piping; cashmere throw pillows on the sofa are through Rani Arabella; and a custom cerused bookcase with leather hardware from York Street Studio houses ottomans covered in Dedar fabric.
“THIS HOUSE IS WARM, ALL ABOUT FAMILY, NOT SUPEROVERDECORATED OR PRECIOUS.” —laura tutun
“THE CLIENTS ARE RELAXED AND DOWN-TO-EARTH, AND THAT’S HOW THEY WANTED THEIR HOUSE TO FEEL.” —laura tutun
this spread: The kids’ study upstairs is furnished with two desks and a sectional from West Elm. A custom white laminate round table on castors serves as a coffee table and additional workspace, and custom magnetic boards display achievements and notes of inspiration. Roman shades in a John Robshaw fabric add to the mix of patterns in the room.
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“IT’S GREAT TO WORK WITH CLIENTS WHO BUY A HOUSE BECAUSE THEY LOVE IT AND HAVE RESPECT FOR WHAT WAS THERE.”
this space all the time—it’s bigger than the family room and little off the beaten path, so their kids can be in the family room with friends, and the clients can be in here, and they’re not on top of each other. What inspired the look and feel of this room? LT: The wife loved the
colors and the feel of Bunny Williams’ living room in her Dominican Republic house. It has a lot of icy blues, creams and soft greens, and that was the launching point for this space. We needed a place for people to sit when they’re playing pool, so we had those custom banquettes on either side of the pool table made. We also added the built-ins on either side of the fireplace. They’re lined with an icy-blue seagrass, and we added brass trimming on the shelves and drawer fronts.
—frank marsella
Tell me about the dining room. LT: The Gracie wallpaper in there is gorgeous, and the colors work really well with what we were doing in the living room. I had suggested that paper because the dining room isn’t super-large, and it was an opportunity to create this little jewel box. The colors of the Gracie panels also tie into the high-gloss, peacock blue lacquered butler’s pantry.
this spread: In one of the new en-suite bedrooms on the second floor, a bold Phillip Jeffries wallpaper accents one wall, and John Robshaw bedding and a Bungalow 5 mirror are striking complements. The hanging swing was a special request from the clients’ daughter.
Speaking of the butler’s pantry, I love the finishes in there. LT: That
room is really special. The wallpaper is a gold metal, and the ceiling is papered in a fretwork gold pattern on a cork paper, so it has some texture to it. The counters and sink are bronze, and the backsplash is antique mirror. Heading upstairs, the master suite is directly above the living room and the same size. How did you handle that? LT: There was a fireplace on the
wall where you would put the bed, so we had to eliminate the fireplace to accommodate a better floor plan and flow. It was unfortunate to remove it, but that was another hurdle we had in an older home with this layout. Because this room was so big, we added a Phillip Jeffries silvery-green seagrass on the walls to warm up the space; it just sparkles at night. A lot of the pieces, like the bed, the cream sofa and the makeup table, were in their previous bedroom. The clients weren’t originally going to renovate the master bath, but I told them I thought it was a mistake not to. We ended up completely gutting it six months into the project. Any layouts changes on this floor? FM: We made cosmetic changes to an existing bedroom that faces the back, renovated an existing hallway bathroom across from it, and then the kids’ study. Above the garage, we again aggressively renovated and reconfigured this entire area, which had three bedrooms, one bathroom and the secondary staircase. Here we created two fairly large en-suite bedrooms and rebuilt the stair. LT: For the kids’ study, we wanted to create a den where the kids could spread out, focus, read and do homework and projects. We put matching large white lacquered desks for homework and a big, comfy sectional for reading. This space covers a lot of functions; it’s one you want to be in.
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The master bedroom was furnished with several pieces from the clients’ previous bedroom, including this Barbara Barry makeup table. A Phillip Jeffries seagrass wallpaper warms up the large room. opposite top: Artwork by Nell Waters Bernegger adds color to the serene space, and silk roman shades with Samuel & Sons trim adorn the windows. Underneath a custom silk chandelier with a quartz point, the bed features a custom headboard and Matouk bedding. opposite bottom: Barbara Barry lamps rest on Hickory Chair nightstands; the master bath’s custom vanity has fluted drawer fronts.
this spread: Offering amazing views of the backyard and the golf course beyond, the rear patio carries on the glamorous feel captured in the front of the house. “We knew right away that we wanted a Hollywood Regency feel on the patio,” Tutun says. “We bought a pair of really great vintage iron chairs at an antique show and had them reupholstered in outdoor leather.” Restoration Hardware furniture in Perennials fabric and Link fabric-covered throw pillows round out the space.
Sounds like this was quite the project! FM: It was, but the clients were very willing to work with the house, not for budget reasons, but out of respect for it. We went in carefully, and we were more aggressive in areas where renovations had previously taken place and there was nothing of value. It’s great to work with clients who buy a house because they love it and have respect for what was there. LT: It was one of those projects where every time a wall came down, the project got bigger! But at the end of the day, I think it completely checks off all the boxes. Every room has a special feature that I haven’t incorporated in another house before—the bronze counters and sink in the butler’s pantry, the unlacquered brass toe kick and bronze fireplace surround with rivets in the kitchen, the paneling I put in the family room. I work really hard to create those special little details you won’t see anywhere else.
This home is warm, all about family, not super-overdecorated or precious. The clients are relaxed and down-to-earth, and that’s how they wanted their house to feel. —interview by lauren fetterman Resources: Interior designer and custom millwork: L Tutun Interiors, Rye, NY; 914-772-3614; lauratutuninteriors.com Architect: Frank Marsella, AIA, Marsella + Knoetgen Architects, Mamaroneck, NY; 914-381-5198; mk-architects.com Wallpaper installation: JM Shea, Ridgefield; 203-431-4437; jmshea.com Butler’s pantry counters and sink: Brooks Custom, Mt. Kisco, NY; 914-666-2029; brookscustom.com Accessories: Nest Inspired Home, Rye, NY; 914-921-6378; nestinspiredhome.com
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enter starting february 1 9th annual
awards
the premiere home design competition
calling all design pros! If you have a project or firm in CT‌ Go to athomefc.com to find out how to get on the A-List! Save the date for the A-List Awards Gala! September 2018 at the Palace Theatre in Stamford.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
advertisers index BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT Amanda Martocchio Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Ben Krupinski Builder, bkbuilder.com ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������33 Charles Hilton Architects, hiltonarchitects.com ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 30, 31 Clarke, clarkeliving.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Cornerstone Contracting, cornerstone-builders.com ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 19 Davenport Contracting & Home, davenportcontracting.com ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������35 Deane, deaneinc.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4 Gault Family Companies, gaultstone.com ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5 GlenGate Company, glengatecompany.com �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������36 Jennifer Anderson Design & Development, jenniferanderson-designs.com �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������38 Neil Hauck Architects, neilhauckarchitects.com ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������Cover 3 RR Builders, LLC, rrbuilders.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 SBP Homes LLC, sbphomes.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Wadia Associates, wadiaassociates.com ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 15
DECORATING & HOME FURNISHINGS Amy Aidinis Hirsch, amyhirsch.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2, 1 Lillian August Furnishings + Design, lillianaugust.com �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������24, 25 Pimlico Interiors, pimlicointeriors.com ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������2, 3 Rinfret, Ltd Interior Design & Decoration, rinfretltd.com ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������39 Schwartz Design Showroom, schwartzdesignshowroom.com ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 9 The Collected Home by Risa King, thecollectedhome.com ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 13 Wakefield Design Center, wakefielddesigncenter.com ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 11
EVENTS A-List Awards, athomefc.com/alist ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������98
LANDSCAPING, NURSERY & FLORISTS Artemis Landscape Architects, Inc., artemisla.com ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 40 Elise Design Group/ Elise Landscapes & Nursery, LLC, eliselandscapes.com ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������32 Sasco Farms Landscape Design, Inc., sascofarms.com ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������34 Susan Cohen Landscape Architect, susancohenlandscapes.com ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 40 JAN/FEB 2018
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PROS WEIGH IN ON REDO TRENDS AND TIPS
SCOTT HOBBS
GEORGE PUSSER
AMANDA MARTOCCHIO
MATTHEW DOUGHERTY
ASHLEY SCHAPIRO
HOBBS, INCORPORATED hobbsinc.com
CORNERSTONE CONTRACTING cornerstone-builders.com
AMANDA MARTOCCHIO ARCHITECTURE amandamartocchio.com
MATTHEW R. DOUGHERTY ARCHITECT mrdarchitect.com
MILTON miltondevelopment.com
Top tip for a smooth project While this may sound selfserving, don’t competitively bid it. Regardless of how well a renovation is drawn, there are always surprises, and the competitive bid process normally ensures that all contingency money has been wrung from the project before it starts. This means that each new discovery becomes antagonistic. It’s better to find someone trustworthy to work with to develop a realistic budget, then deal with inevitable issues in a collaborative way. This will result in far more value for the money.
Current trends The climate of the market is presently gravitating toward anything and everything tech-related. Smart home technology, inclusive of energy efficiency and wireless technology, along with all things green are trending right now.
You can’t go wrong… Having an architect design a comprehensive master plan, even if you want to limit construction to a specific partial renovation. A master plan can thoughtfully outline a phased approach so that imminent work is accomplished with foresight into long-term goals, avoiding duplicate work.
Top tip for a smooth project When remodeling an existing space, it’s important to understand from the beginning that there will be unknowns lurking behind walls. Renovation projects are inherently complicated, and having a skilled team, where everyone works together toward the best solution, ensures the process and results are successful.
Most popular materials Stain-grade white oak is popular, whether used as trim in key areas like the foyer and family room, or introduced by built-ins, beams or barn doors. Bleached white oak floors can give a fresh look and help offset the feeling of low-ceiling heights. Quartz surface counters like Caesarstone are being used for durability and a clean look, and large-format porcelain tile for bath and mudroom floors is popular.
Most popular materials The color and texture of walls is a focus these days. Making certain walls really pop with metal accent panels (either stainless or oil rubbed), wallcoverings (from exotic papers to straws to leather) or amazing faux treatments can really add character to a home.
Top tip for a smooth project We recommend hiring an architect, and having an understanding of the design concept helps. Then hire a builder (Cornerstone!) that is transparent and has a good reputation. Having a contractor who understands quality, schedule and budget will make the experience more enjoyable and will produce the best results.
You can’t go wrong… Spending money on good advice. Hiring experienced architects or designers to help you figure out how to maximize the value from a project is the best money you can spend!
Most popular materials Some things never change, and materials such as glass, metals and stone are still popular choices today because they hold up to the test of time. What has changed are the colors and textures of the materials.
Current trends The most popular trend is fluid, but not oversized, interior spaces that support informal lifestyles. Homeowners want light-filled family areas that connect to both outdoor living spaces and kitchens. Our clients come to us appreciative of architectural design that is pared down yet characterized by warmfinish materials. Most popular materials While we stay abreast of innovative materials and technologies, we prioritize timeless design. However, recently we have used cement fiber board as an exterior cladding material that offers moisture resistance, low maintenance and aesthetic flexibility.
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Current trends Most clients are leaning toward more modern, transitional elements and features in finishes and style. They’re also eliminating rooms that aren’t used as frequently, such as formal living and dining rooms, and instead want multifunctional spaces better suited for today’s style of living. You can’t go wrong… Renovating or updating kitchens and baths, but sometimes just fixing the flow of a house can have a dramatic and rewarding outcome that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Current trends I’m seeing a trend toward increasing light in the home, achieved by upgrading window design with larger and more strategic window placement, utilizing picture windows to maximize views, and changing a traditional window configuration to a more transitional and contemporary design. Top tip for a smooth project Do your homework! Hire experts, including engineers, architects and site surveyors, to inspect the structure before embarking on a renovation to avoid surprises later. Due diligence in the selection of an experienced builder is paramount.
SCOTT HOBBS: LORAH HASKINS; AMANDA MARTOCCHIO: MICHAEL BIONDI PHOTOGRAPHY
experts /ON THE HOUSE