athome in Fairfield County - May/June 2021 by Moffly Media

goods

PRETTY PESTS

custom kitch ens

PROJECTS + PRODUCTS

l a s t wo r d

PERSONAL SPACE

in fairfield county

$5.95 MAY/JUNE 2021

athomefc. com

MAKE IT YOURS!

AMY AIDINIS HIRSCH INTERIOR DESIGN

amyhirsch.com

203 661 1266

41 WEST ELM STREET GREENWICH, CT TEL. 203.622.7000 WWW.VANDERHORNARCHITECTS.COM

contents MAY/JUNE 2021 vol. 16 | issue 2

features

departments

8 EDITOR’S NOTE

KITCHEN GOALS An array of beautiful kitchens and the latest products to suit every taste.

TAKING SHAPE A historic home is transformed into a time-honored yet modern family retreat.

10 GET THE GOODS Color trend: Lilac; Nautral Selection; Pretty Pests

in t e rvi ew b y ju dy o strow

16 HAUTE STUFF Daybeds

PERFECT FIT A landscape developed alongside a new build ensures outdoor living space at its finest. in t e rvi ew b y ju dy o strow

Landscape designed by James Doyle Design Associates.

20 SHOP TALK Local design news, the latest collections, haute happenings and more 80 LAST WORD Design pros reveal their go-to ways to “make it yours”

ATHOME IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY MAY/JUNE 2021, VOL. 16, NO. 2. ATHOME IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY (ISSN 1941-9503) is published four times annually (Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Sept/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 pimlic o i nteriors wi th hobbs, i nc. | ph ot o gr a ph y a m y vi schio athomefc.com

Create an outdoor space you love living in.

n to Sca

view this stone st ory

Ca m

era, Aim, Tap Ba

nne

WESTPORT SHOWROOM 203.277.5181 BETHEL SHOWROOM 203.790.9023 gaultstone.com

STONE STONE&&LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPESUPPLIES SUPPLIES

Exceptional Products, Personal Service.

vol. 16 | no. 2 | may/june 2021

editorial

sales & marketing publisher, athome; fairfield living publisher-at-large, greenwich

editor

Lauren Fetterman lauren.fetterman@moffly.com

Jonathan W. Moffly jonathan@moffly.com

style director

Megan Gagnon megan.gagnon@moffly.com

chief revenue officer publisher, greenwich

Andrew Amill andrew.amill@moffly.com

advisory editor

Donna Moffly donna.moffly@moffly.com

publisher, westport•weston•wilton

Gabriella Mays gabriella.mays@moffly.com

contributing editors editorial director

publisher, new canaan•darien

Cristin Marandino cristin.marandino@moffly.com

Gina Fusco gina.fusco@moffly.com

editor, new canaan•darien

publisher, stamford

Julee Kaplan julee.kaplan@moffly.com

Karen Kelly-Micka karen.kelly@moffly.com

editor, fairfield living; stamford; westport•weston•wilton

account executive

Hilary Hotchkiss hilary.hotchkiss@moffly.com

Diane Sembrot diane.sembrot@moffly.com

account executive

art

Rick Johnson rick.johnson@moffly.com

senior art director

Garvin Burke garvin.burke@moffly.com

partnership and big picture manager

Kathleen Godbold

kathleen.godbold@moffly.com

production director

Tim Carr tim.carr@moffly.com

events director

Rachel Shorten

rachel.shorten@moffly.com

assistant art director

Taylor Stroili taylor.stroili @moffly.com

sales assistant

Lemuel Bandala

lemuel.bandala@moffly.com

digital

business assistant

director of content strategy

Diane Sembrot diane.sembrot@moffly.com

Eillenn Bandala

eillenn.bandala@moffly.com business

digital marketing manager

Rachel MacDonald rachel.macdonald@moffly.com

president Jonathan W. Moffly chief revenue officer Andrew Amill

digital assistant

editorial director Cristin Marandino

Lloyd Gabi lloyd.gabi@moffly.com

director of content strategy Diane Sembrot business manager Elena V. Moffly cofounders John W. Moffly IV & Donna C. Moffly

creative director-at-large, athome

Amy Vischio amy.vischio@moffly.com

TO SUBSCRIBE, renew, or change your address, please email subscribe@athomefc.com, call 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. ©2018 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 email reprints@mofflymedia.com PUBLISHERS OF GREENWICH, FAIRFIELD LIVING, NEW CANAAN • DARIEN • ROWAYTON, WESTPORT, STAMFORD and athome magazines 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880. Phone: 203-222-0600; email: mail@moffly.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Lemuel Bandala: call 203-571-1610 or email advertise@moffly.com

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C O N N E C T I C U T 565 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203.924.8444 W E S T C H E S T E R 16 Saw Mill River Rd, Hawthorne 914.592.1001 californiaclosets.com

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Custom solutions for better living

editor’s note /PERSONAL SPACE I

SCAN TO EXPLORE

n ways both big and small, our homes are a unique form of self-expression. Through the furnishings to the color palette to the finishes, they signal to others what we love, how we spend our time and what brings us comfort and joy. Having a home that truly reflects your personality, interests and lifestyle is always worth the investment, and that’s why customization of any kind is key. Making it yours—where “it” could mean a piece of furniture, a room, a landscape or even an entire house—infuses who you are into where you live, and there’s no better way to feel at home in your own personal space. In this issue, we’re getting right to the heart of the home—we’re showcasing a variety of kitchens that range from traditional to transitional to modern as well as the latest appliances, fixtures and tools that can help take your kitchen from basic to bespoke (“Kitchen Goals” on page 33). Next, we step inside a historic home beautifully renovated by Pimlico Interiors and Hobbs, Inc., who helped a mother and son thoughtfully blend their traditional and modern sensibilities together to create a home that feels time-honored yet fresh (“Taking Shape” on page 46). Finally, James Doyle and Heather Harris of James Doyle Design Associates walk us through a serene landscape—developed in tandem with a new home—that seamlessly links the indoors and outdoors (“Perfect Fit” on page 62). And about that code over there on the left-hand side of this page—you’re going to see these pop up in our pages, in both ads and editorial. Flowcode, a company started by former AOL CEO and Riverside resident Tim Armstrong, is used by the entertainment industry (Good Morning America), luxe brands (Bentley), nonprofits (Feeding America), and so many others. Think of it as a more modern QR code. Go ahead and scan it and try it out. It’s pretty cool! And finally, to interior designers, architects, builders and landscape design professionals, this is your last reminder to enter the A-list Awards! With seventeen categories ranging from single rooms to entire homes, there’s a wide variety of ways to enter your best work and make 2021 the year you make the A-list. To enter or learn more, visit athomeatlistawards.com and read our FAQs and submission guidelines. We’ve extended the deadline until May 24, so there are still a few weeks left to get those projects in. Put A-list on your to-do list today!

HOW TO SCAN: OPEN, AIM & TAP

LAST CALL!

deadline: MAY 24

LAUREN FETTERMAN

athomealistawards.com

Editor

lauren.fetterman@moffly.com

athomefc.com

Amy Andrews for

Hilton Interiors

Tel: 203.717.1005 | @hiltoninteriors | hilton-interiors.com

goods/COLOR by megan

gagnon

LILAC FINDS ARE FRESH FOR THE PICKING

MASQUESPACIO FOR HOUTIQUE Wink ceiling light; $642. pamono.com

E STELLE COLORED GLASS

ASTEK Drunk monkeys wallpaper; price upon request. astek.com

5 OOMPH

Easton mirror; $1,895. Greenwich; oomphhome.com

for a modern interior with a neu tr al palet te, there is no bet ter c omplement than a spl ash of lil ac. the multifaceted c ol or enhances the design with its pl ayful side, bu t it also l o oks elegant surrounded by cl assic st yling.

FAUDET-HARRISON FOR SCP Continuous sofa system; $9,860. thefutureperfect.com

—georgia zikas, georgia zikas design

CHRISTOPHER SPITZMILLER Whittaker medium table lamp; $925. Circa Lighting, Greenwich; circalighting.com

MAKE IT

CUSTOM

7 athomefc.com

KERRI ROSENTHAL Beachcomber lilac pillow; $268. kerrirosenthal.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS. WALLPAPER BY ASTEK AND ANDREW ALFORD

Cakestand; $225. estellecolored glass.com

YA R D TO TA B LE

It’s Time to Grow Your Own Food BECOME A HOMEFRONT FARMER

ALSO OFFERING

MUSHROOMS : BEEKEEPING : BERRIES AND FRUIT TREES : MAPLE SUGARING

Victory Gardens provided Americans with homegrown

gardeners make weekly visits to ensure that your

vegetables during WWII, and the benefits of home-

garden is productive and beautiful. From April until

front vegetable gardens are equally relevant

November, your garden will yield the

today. Just-picked, organic produce can’t

delicious, organic vegetables that you’ve

be beat. Growing and harvesting favorite

selected. And if you don’t yet have a

vegetable varieties in your backyard is

garden, let us build you one of our hand-

empowering. Teaching a young child where

crafted raised bed beauties.

their food comes from is a gift of a lifetime! Now is a great time to plan for your own Homefront Farmers is here to help. We are

Victory Garden so you can experience its

the area’s leading experts in producing homegrown

many benefits this season. Give us a call — we’d love

fruits and vegetables. Our highly trained organic

to get you growing!

20 3 .470.3655 : info@homefrontfarmers.com : homefrontfarmers.com : Like Us on Facebook

goods/NATURAL SELECTION WEAVE IN SOME DRAMA WITH DARK WOOD TONES

2 1

4 7

CUSTOM

5 the materials we work with shape our c ollections and pl ay a key part in our l o ok and values. natur al materials create a sense of a calm in a home, and the soft h ues of wicker and r at tan lit by a fil ament bulb create a warm and c ozy light.

6 1 PIGEON & POODLE

2 WORLDS AWAY

Aneta baskets; $388 for set of two. pigeonandpoodle .com

Freya cane side table; $539. Fig Linens and Home, Westport; figlinensandhome .com

3 HUDSON VALLEY LIGHTING Lido beach pendant; $1,790. Trovare Home Design, Greenwich; trovarehomedesign .com

—greg lehmkuhl, creative director, terrain

4 BD STUDIO III

5 ARTERIORS

6 DASH & ALBERT

7 NOIR

Canggu 84” media stand; $3,033.70. burkedecor.com

Hamza chair; $3,380. Beehive, Fairfield; thebeehive fairfield.com

Diamond greige sisal woven rug; starting at $80. annieselke .com

Turned leg Ismail console; $2,607. noirfurniturela.com

athomefc.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

MAKE IT

south norwalk, connecticut | p. 203.563.0553 w w w. m i c h a e l s m i t h a r c h i t e c t s . c o m

goods /PRETTY PESTS

UNWELCOME IN THE GARDEN? INVITE THEM INSIDE

MAKE IT

CUSTOM

1 STRAY DOG DESIGNS Birds; $40 each. straydogdesigns.com

2 HOUSE OF HACKNEY Cobra bookends; $632. houseofhackney.com

3 JOANNA BUCHANAN Wick trimmer with stripey bee; $98. joannabuchanan.com

Serpi dinner plates; $290 for set of three. artemest.com

5 STUDIO ROOF 3D DIY decorative beetles; $20. store.moma.org

6 LES OTTOMANS Olive serpent tray; $74. landofbelle.com

7 JONATHAN ADLER Botanist specimen vase; $395. jonathanadler.com

—kristen mccory, mccory interiors

6 athomefc.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

4 LABORATORIO PARAVICINI

using snakes, beetles and bugs in our homes is a new way t o redefine nature and infuse it int o design. we’re seeing these creatures printed on wallpaper, molded and carved in tables or cast in ac cessories, and it is undeniably pl ayful and beau tiful at the same time .

haute stuff / ULTRA LOUNGE by megan gagnon

DAYBEDS FOR EVERY DESIGN STYLE

CRATE & BARREL

athomefc.com

IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

Bella curved chaise; $1,899. Westport; crateandbarrel.com

RingsEnd.com

800·390·1000

Design Studio™ Roman Shades

Your Inspiration. Our Expertise. Design Studio™ Roller Shades

haute stuff / ULTRA LOUNGE

2 MAKE IT

CUSTOM

4 5

7 2 EARLY WORK STUDIO

3 PETITE FRITURE x POOL

Angled Wood bar daybed in soft gray; $8,400. 1stdibs.com

Grid daybed; $5,370. aplusrstore.com

4 STUDIO PARISIEN Sévigné daybed; price upon request. theinvisiblecollection .com

5 ELEISH VAN BREEMS HOME Danish midcentury modern chaise; $4,200. Westport; evbantiques.com

athomefc.com

6 SERENA & LILY

7 SAFAVIEH

8 McGUIRE

Avalon daybed; $1,398. Westport; serenaandlily.com

Helena rattan daybed; $2,148. Stamford; safavieh.com

Euclid daybed by Nicole Hollis; starting at $7,947. Schwartz Design Showroom, Stamford; schwartz designshowroom.com

IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

www.heathergaudiofineart.com 203.801.9590 66 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 06840

shoptalk THE LATEST DESIGN NEWS

above: Focused on interior design, furniture design and a curated fabric library, The Tailored Home’s new Westport location in Sconset Square is full of color and inspiration.

NEXT CHAPTER

ith a tagline that promises, “Interiors and furniture design that stretch the bounds of color and era,” The Tailored Home guarantees to make a statement. With Jhon Ortiz and Scott Falciglia at the helm, the business is known for its interior design services, customizable and original furniture design, reupholstery services, curated fabric library, custom window treatments and a chic selection of light fixtures and home décor. Designers and enthusiasts have loved stopping by their two stores—in Westport and Greenwich—while custom furniture, reupholstery and window treatment orders are completed in their proprietary studio in Norwalk. However, after spending five years at their Westport location on Post Road, it felt like it was time for a change of scenery. “After

opening our Westport store in 2015, we were hungry for a downtown experience, so we opened a store at the top of Greenwich Avenue,” says Falciglia. “We were really pleased with that move, so we decided to make the same move in Westport.” They found the downtown vibe they were looking for in Westport’s Sconset Square. Originally four separate units, the new store is now one open space spanning two floors, with an open steel staircase connecting the two. With a focus on interior design, furniture design and their curated fabric library, the store offers an experience informed by The Tailored Home’s love for color and different eras. “We’re really proud of our tagline; it feels good every time we say it,” says Falciglia. “It was the driver behind what we athomefc.com

wanted for the new store—it drove the wallpaper, the color of the window trim, the lacquered ceiling, the light fixtures, the vignettes and the unique accessories and art. You can look around and see different pieces of furniture, and some look like they were inspired by period pieces, but from all different periods. We feel like our tagline is really upheld by the experience you have moving through the space.” In addition, customers can soon pop into the store’s Studio Café, which will open later this spring. “Jhon and I love entertaining, and we love going out to eat,” says Falciglia. “Westport has such a great dining experience, and we wanted to contribute to what’s already going on here.” 15 Myrtle Avenue, Westport; 203-292-9111; thetailoredhomect.com

CONTRIBUTED BY THE TAILORED HOME

THE TAILORED HOME MOVES ITS WESTPORT STORE INTO SCONSET SQUARE b y l a u r e n f e t t e r m a n

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shoptalk

above: The new Herman Miller experiential retail concept store in Greenwich allows shoppers to test-drive seating options before buying.

orking from home just became a lot more comfortable, thanks to Herman Miller. The brand recently opened a new experiential retail concept store in Greenwich, the fifth of its kind, with other locations recently opened in Los Angeles; New York City; Austin, Texas; and Chicago. The new store is dedicated to selling performance seating and products that support the home office and small business worker. Created in response to present-day customer demands, the concept introduces a new way to

test-drive Herman Miller products and experience the benefits of sitting well firsthand. “We’re in a time where many people find themselves sedentary working from home, sitting down for more hours than ever before, and the dining room chair just isn’t cutting it anymore,” says Debbie Propst, president of Herman Miller Group Retail. “We can do better–especially when it comes to our well-being. The public deserves healthier alternatives, and they’re searching for better solutions online. We’ve heard from

customers that they want a way to test our products in person before making the investment.” Herman Miller offers a unique educational and experiential process that allows guests to sit down and try products for themselves. The store has a dedicated ergonomic specialist on hand to help shoppers better understand the health and productivity benefits of sitting well. Customers also have the option to visit the store remotely through a virtual chat function on the Herman Miller website, allowing for a one-on-one video call.

SMOOTH SAILING

MARCIA TUCKER INTERIORS EXPANDS INTO THE YACHTING WORLD

K above: Marcia Tucker Yachting offers interior design

services for yachts that include sourcing interior furnishings and bedding.

nown for her warm, sophisticated style that combines contemporary furniture and fabrics with unique art and accessories, Marcia Tucker of Marcia Tucker Interiors has expanded into the yachting world with a new brand, Marcia Tucker Yachting. After years of designing high-end interiors, extending her residential design work into yacht interiors was a natural fit and next step for the Greenwich-based designer. Whether the project entails a new build, a restock, a refit or staging services, Tucker athomefc.com

Designed by Herman Miller’s creative design team, the 1,500-square-foot store features immersive vignettes that highlight the products and innovative solutions for the home office. Visitors can test and compare each chair’s features–from pressure distribution and individualized adjustment capabilities, to breathable suspension materiality and backrest adjustments. Through the hands-on experience, visitors can configure and customize product finishes and stylish details onsite. 348 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich; store.hermanmiller.com

works closely with yacht owners, yacht managers, captains and chief stewards to determine specifications and requirements. She and her team then source products that include interior and outdoor furnishings, accessories, bedding, tableware, luxury towels, pillows and throws. Once the last item is delivered on board, all details of the specific orders are kept on file for easy future ordering. In addition, Tucker collaborates with a number of suppliers and brands, such as Paola Lenti (Marcia Tucker Interiors is the exclusive representative for Paola Lenti furniture in the yacht industry for the U.S. and the Caribbean), that produce unique and luxurious superyacht furniture and accessories. Through these collaborations, Tucker and her team are able to provide customized pieces that meet each client’s specific requirements and put a personal touch on every yacht. Marcia Tucker Yachting, Greenwich; 203-4093692; marciatuckerinteriors.com/yachting

HERMAN MILLER: AARON LIMOGES; MARCIA TUCKER: CHARL JORDAAN, YACHTING IMAGE

Sitting Well W

HERMAN MILLER opens experiential retail concept in Greenwich

ng Views & Exceeding Expectations Enhancing Views & Exceeding Expectations Enhancing Views & Exceeding Expectations Enhancing Views & Exceeding Expectations Enhancing Views & Exceeding Expectations Enhancing Views & Exceeding Expectations

ur Season Property Care & Maintenance Season Property Care & Maintenance Landscape Design &Four Installation Four Season Property Care & Maintenance Design Masonry Walls, Walks & Landscape Patios Four Season Property Care & & Installation Maintenance Four Season Property Care & Maintenance Design & Installation Four Season Property Care & Maintenance Masonry Walls, Walks &Landscape Patios Landscape Design Installation Gardens - Pots - Seasonal Decor Landscape Design & & Installation Masonry Landscape Design Installation Gardens - Pots -&Seasonal Decor Walls, Walks & Patios MasonryWalls, Walls, Walks & Patios Masonry Walks & Patios Gardens - Pots - Seasonal Decor Gardens -Walls, Pots - Seasonal Decor Masonry & Patios Gardens - Pots - Walks Seasonal Decor

One-of-a-kind. In so many ways.

Gardens - Pots - Seasonal Decor

Designer Lawrence Levy has a passion for making every project special. “That’s why I send my clients to Bender. They find everything they need right there to create their own unique spaces. Plus, Bender’s knowledgeable and eager showroom consultants go out of their way to bring your vision to life. No wonder designers and builders like Chris O’Dell collaborate with Bender. The result is always uniquely special.” 203.351.1108

www.terragreenllc.com

kristin@terragreenllc.com

Visit us in person or go to BenderShowrooms.com to take a 3D tour of our Norwalk or New Haven showrooms.

Chris O’Dell The O’Dell Group

Lawrence Levy Interior Designer

decorative plumbing | kitchen & bath cabinetry | tile & stone www.terragreenllc.com kristin@terragreenllc.com 203.351.1108 www.terragreenllc.com kristin@terragreenllc.com © 2021 Bender Plumbing 203.351.1108 www.terragreenllc.com kristin@terragreenllc.com 203.351.1108 www.terragreenllc.com kristin@terragreenllc.com 203.351.1108 www.terragreenllc.com kristin@terragreenllc.com MAY/JUNE 2021 TerraGreen_May21.indd 1

4/2/21 6:03 PM

athome

shoptalk

NYC TO WESTPORT SMALL-SIZED DESIGN SHOWROOM WITH BIG STYLE OPENS IN TOWN by diane sembrot

estport’s style caught the attention of NYC’s high-end WEST CHIN ARCHITECTS & INTERIOR DESIGNERS (wcarchitect .com), which just renovated its East Hampton showroom and opened a new showroom in New York City and in Westport. Called WEST | OUT EAST (westouteast.com), each is a local resource for design-forward finds, such as indoor and outdoor furniture, closets and storage systems, lighting, rugs and accessories. Also, each is outfitted like a home that suits the area. The NYC location, in the Flatiron District, is in a Fifth Avenue duplex apartment with a living room, media room, dining room, kitchen, home office, master bedroom, walk-in closet and study. The Hamptons space, in an old farmhouse, has a kitchen, bath and living areas and a master closet. Westport’s pint-sized shop at 9 Riverside Avenue is tucked in among brick buildings at the corner of Riverside and the Post Road. The owners found the perfect descriptive term of endearment: Connecticut Cottage. It carries Paola Lenti, FTF Design Studio, Kasthall and more.

“We are known for our modern product selections, from Porro closets to Living Divani couches to Flos lighting to FTF Corian trays,” says West Chin, owner. “Many people know that our products look amazing in a modern, contemporary space—an obvious meeting of modern pieces in a modern home. What is less well-known, and what is present in our original East Hampton store, is that modern furniture can work in traditional and transitional spaces, from a modern barn to the 1905 farmhouse we call our OG in East Hampton. The juxtaposition of modern and traditional is a combination that engages the senses and makes you appreciate all that modern design has to offer. Our little cottage in Westport does exactly that.” As for brick-and-mortar retail, Chin says, “In the luxury sector of high-end residential furnishings, potential buyers want to touch samples, sit on sofas, talk to someone educated about the product, and appreciate the experience that cannot come from a brochure or an online vehicle.”

athomefc.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCO PETRINI

left: Extrasoft modular sofa, Era sette and Kiwi side table (Living Divani) and System bookcase (Porro) middle: The collection includes coffee/cafe tables for small spaces. right: Modern Console (Porro), Galileo mirrors (Living Divani), 14.7 pendant (Bocci), Rack log holder (FTF Design Studio) and Play indoor/outdoor pouf (Paola Lenti)

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shoptalk

LIGHT WORK HANDMADE LAMPS AND ACCESSORIES BY DUMAIS MADE MARRY FORM AND FUNCTION

above: Pieces from the clean-lined, Bauhaus-influenced Sanibel style.

MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS launches its first outdoor collection

urniture and home décor brand Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams has introduced its first-ever Outdoor Collection. The premium handcrafted pieces are sophisticated and aimed at those seeking more from their pool, lounge and dining spaces. The collection encompasses two styles, each with eleven pieces: the beautifully curved Del Mar in sustainable premium-grade weathered solid teak, and the clean-lined, Bauhaus-influenced Sanibel in handcrafted cast aluminum. For seating, generous ultra-comfortable cushions in easy-care European Performance Fabrics are available in a choice of eight nature-inspired hues. Rounding out the collection are American-made umbrellas, outdoor pillows from MG+BW and Sunbrella, and outdoor furniture covers.

above: A round dining table, sofa and

coffee table from the Del Mar style.

above: Charlie Dumais and Kevin Dumais in their studio.

“As our homes increasingly become seamless, multifunctional spaces, the outdoor area is now as important as any room in the house in being a place of connection, engagement and gratitude for everything that defines comfort,” says Allison O’Connor, president and CEO. “Homes are conscious expressions of life and carry deeply important meaning for the people who live in them,” O’Connor notes. “Our intention with MG+BW Outdoor is to create serene and luxurious exterior living spaces that connect people with the natural world, inspiring them to savor time outside and grounding them in the beauty and comfort of priceless moments spent in peace and with loved ones. We see our entry into the outdoor category as a natural extension of our brand, which is built around the definition of comfort.” Says cofounder and president of design Bob Williams: “It has been a dream of mine to extend our product line outside because having a beautiful and comfortable outdoor living space means so much to me personally. For many years, interior designers and our customers have asked us for this, and we felt now was the time to bring our point of view on this area of the home into being. We have carefully curated the collection to ensure each piece is intentionally designed for comfort, elegance, and easy care, and crafted from premium materials that stand the test of time.” 45 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich; 203-661-4480; mgbwhome.com

umais Made, a pottery studio based in Litchfield, is a true labor of love. Founded by lighting designer Charlie Dumais and his husband, interior designer Kevin Dumais, the studio specializes in handmade ceramic lamps, sconces and one-of-a-kind accessories. After originally starting as an experimental hobby for Charlie, they have since placed orders with SoHo House, Brad Ford, Shawn Henderson and Nicole Hollis. Kevin and Charlie transformed a 1,000-square-foot factory into a showroom and studio, as well as a place for Kevin to expand his interior design studio. Drawing from the simplicity of modern sculpture, their pieces are constructed from slabs, which allows for clean, graphic shapes. Made with clay from Sheffield, Massachusetts, the pieces combine an elegant simplicity of form with a love for the beautiful imperfections of the process, and their palette reflects a shared appreciation for subtle-but-striking colors like pale midcentury greens, rich ochres and gentle metallics. The studio recently launched a new e-commerce site and with the launch have added hardwired pendant lighting and floor lamps to the offerings, along with new finishes, shapes and textures (one using an old ravioli pin) developed during quarantine. All scraps get recycled and are used to make new pieces for as little waste as possible. 931 Bantam Road, Bantam; 212-620-7720; dumaismade.com

above: Dumais Made pieces include pendant lighting, lamps and sconces.

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MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS: COURTESY OF MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS; DUMAIS MADE: PORTRAIT: JOSHUA MCHUGH; PRODUCT IMAGES: COURTESY OF DUMAIS MADE

Taking It Outside

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CALIFORNIA LOVE JENNI KAYNE BRINGS HER WEST COAST STYLE TO CONNECTICUT

above: Jenni Kayne’s home offerings include furniture, pillows, rugs, tableware and decorative accessories.

Tile Style The latest collections from AKDO elevate any space With selections that feature chic patterns, textures and captivating movement, the latest collections from AKDO offer plenty of options to update your space. Add elegance, sophistication or drama to your kitchen, bathroom and more. AKDO, 800-811-2536; akdo.com BEACON Art glass has found a home at AKDO in their newest collection. Swirls of color and a lightly textured glossy surface offer a double dose of glossy texture. True to AKDO’s roots as a leader in mosaic designs, the line’s geometric patterns capitalize on the movement in the glass, creating subtle optical illusions.

POSE This modern take on geometric patterns is by renowned industrial designer Defne Koz. True to the designer’s understated, forward-facing aesthetic, Pose offers clean lines in textures selected to enhance both the patterns and the natural stone used in the mosaics.

above: Desire Tulip Black (H) with Stainless Steel. Brilliance Calico (G) Art Glass

Aster Sapphire (G) Art Glass

Splendor Tundra (G) Art Glass

WISH Inspired by parquet patterns and highly desired geometrics, this collection instantly creates envy-worthy spaces through a refreshing balance of striking luxe materials and transitional designs. Ultra-thin metal inlays add just a dose of bling, creating focal areas that inspire awe without overwhelming. For a more subdued aesthetic, all-marble options are available in mixed finishes that add depth and subtle sparkle. athomefc.com

Poli Calacatta (H)

Plia Turkish Gray Text (SB)

Fino Tulip Black (Combed)

JENNI KAYNE: GARVIN BURKE; ADKO: WISH TILE LIFESTYLE IMAGE: MARCO RICCA; BEACON AND POSE PRODUCT IMAGES: COURTESY OF AKDO

his may be her first store to open in our state, but Jenni Kayne’s brand is well-known among those who stock her fisherman sweaters in winter and sport her signature mules year-round. The world of Jenni Kayne reflects that of the designer herself, and that includes a sun-drenched home filled with natural elements and minimalist furnishings and accessories that embody her aesthetic of laid-back luxury (her ceramic oil diffuser resembles an objet d’art). In addition to her clothing collection, her new Greenwich location, with its bleached oak flooring and custom fixtures, will house her furniture, décor and tabletop items. Look out for partnerships with other local businesses, workshops and events like Wellness Wednesdays, and stop in for a little taste of L.A. on the Avenue. 271 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich; 203-717-0499; jennikayne.com —Megan Gagnon

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LAST CALL! awards

the premier home design competition

A-list Awards deadline extended to May 24 Don’t say you didn’t know!

ENTER NOW

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If you have a project or a firm in CT, go to athomealistawards.com and find out how to get on the A-list! Deadline to enter: May 24 AWARDS CELEBRATION SEPTEMBER 2021

2021 PANEL OF JUDGES

BRIAN SAWYER Sawyer | Berson

MARA MILLER Carrier and Company

DAMIAN ZUNINO Studio DB

JESSE CARRIER Carrier and Company

KEITH WILLIAMS Nievera Williams

BRITT ZUNINO Studio DB

EDWARD SIEGEL Edward Siegel Architect

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: BOB CAPAZZO, KRISTIN HYNES, MELANI LUST & MARSIN MOGIELSKI

PHOTOGRAPHY

VIDEOGRAPHY

SOCIAL MEDIA

Moffly Media is one of the leading providers of professional event photography and marketing services in Fairfield County. We capture compelling, high-quality images of individuals and groups at meaningful events. With our wide range of capabilities from video to social media, Moffly will customize a marketing program that’s just right for you.

LEARN MORE! CONTACT KATHLEEN GODBOLD AT KATHLEEN.GODBOLD@MOFFLY.COM OR 203.571.1654

IT'S TIME TO SHOW THE HEART OF YOUR HOME SOME EXTRA LOVE

KITCHEN GOALS Ready to build new or invest in a redo? We have you covered. We've got five kitchens— ranging from traditional to transitional to modern—to suit every taste, and on pages 44-45, we've gathered the latest kitchen appliances, chic hardware and elegant yet usable tools. Inspiration is served. MAY/JUNE 2021

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karen bow

// K A R E N B O W I N T E R I O R S //

Age and style of home: This home is a 1930s

Resources: Interior designer: Karen Bow Interiors, Darien; 914-953-1517; karenbow.com Contractor: Evan Dadoulis, Smart Solution Contractors, Norwalk; 203-857-0665 Architectural drawing: Michael Gurnari, Michael Gurnari Architectural Design, Norwalk Workroom: Artistic Upholstery, Norwalk; 203-849-8907; artisticupholsteryandfabrics.com athomefc.com

PHOTOGRAPHY AND PORTRAIT: AMY VISCHIO

Greek Revival-style house that has had three major renovations over the last twenty-five years to achieve its current appearance. Setting the scene: The new kitchen was originally a very small dining room and kitchen with a wall in between. The former kitchen was small yet aesthetically charming and more French Provincial in style, keeping with the design of the rest of the home. There were also sliding glass doors that led to an outdoor patio with room for a sitting area at the end. Design concept: My clients love to have a kitchen full of friends and family, so we opened up the space by removing the wall and using the space of the old dining room, which had essentially become a storage room. A special request: We were inspired by the husband’s love of deVOL English kitchens, but I wanted to add a more modern feel with the updated design choices: the lighting, the wallpaper, the custom cabinet finish and the art. I found the art while on vacation in California and immediately fell in love with it. The clients then visited the gallery in California and confirmed how perfect our choice was. Another important request was to create more room for people to be in the kitchen and to add an area for a bar where guests could congregate without being in the workspace. Custom touch: The wife wanted a cozy nook for laptop work and for the family to dine casually, so we removed the outdated sliding doors and added a custom seating area to fill the space to perfection. From the very beginning, this was a design choice priority.

Age and style of home: In this twenty-year-old home, everything was

covered in yellow, granite and moldings. We renovated the entire house into a timeless, streamlined dwelling with a nod to a modern barn house style. The clients: They're an active family of five, plus a pup. The client was an architect in her former life, so the minute details were as important and impactful as the overall statement and function. Setting the scene: The original kitchen had a small island, granite countertops, heavy moldings, a wonky layout and cabinets out of sync and everywhere. Design concept: We wanted durable finishes, timeless style, streamlined efficiency and everything to have its place. The clients also wanted a calm and airy space. We showcased the new windows and flip-flopped the doorway to the mudroom, thus elongating the new floor-to-ceiling cabinets. This also created more symmetry at the kitchen window.

// D B D E S I G N //

A special request: A secret, hidden desk can be completely closed up at

the end of the day, and it blends in with the rest of the cabinets. Making an impact: The mix of surfaces—oak, stone, light and dark painted finishes and backsplash tile—makes a statement. Mixing the materials while keeping clean millwork lines and lighting struck the intended balance. In the former kitchen, the table had been sitting in the middle of the room at the end of the island, so moving and creating a custom banquette and table, designed to sit in front of the new windows, also allowed for a larger island. Resources:

Interior designer: Diana Byrne, DB Design; Rye, NY; 646-246-2617; dbdesigninc.com Architect: Doug Patt, AIA, Allentown, PA; 610-657-3244; dougpatt.com Builder: Tom and Mike Gallego, Yonkers, NY; 914-963-7177; bashfordconstruction.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: JANE BEILES; PORTRAIT: ALIX MARTINEZ

diana byrne

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// D E A N E , I N C . //

Age and style of home: This is

a classic New England-style Colonial home that was built in 2000 and is conveniently located within walking distance to town. Setting the scene: The original kitchen was a traditional style with limited storage and open soffits, and it had an abundance of nonfunctional decorative posts. The clients: They are super fun, super classy and super experienced—the dynamic duo! Because they are very experienced in renovations, they were in tune with their vision and wish list. Design concept: They wanted a blend of transitional and traditional elements to achieve an updated look while keeping the space classic and timeless. We achieved this with a flush inset door style with a hand brushstroke painted finish. Beautiful unlacquered brass hardware from England complements the overall look. The mix of stone and wood countertops adds to the ambience. A special request: Finding additional storage space and utilizing every fraction of an inch on the countertop surfaces were my goals. To achieve them, I found additional storage space where it wasn’t obvious, recessing cabinetry into the walls to provide deeper cabinets, and inverting a decorative countertop edge to gain

PHOTOGRAPHY: PAUL JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY; PORTRAIT: KAREN MORNEAU PHOTOGRAPHY

ingrid becker

every bit of usable counter space. Several glass upper cabinet doors showcase the clients' beautiful collection of decorative tableware. Custom touch: The custom AnnMorris pot rack over the island sets this kitchen apart with its integral pendant lighting and unlacquered brass railing.

Resources: Kitchen designer: Ingrid Becker, Deane, Inc., Stamford; 203-327-7008; deaneinc.com Interior designer: Alexa Hampton, New York City; alexahampton.com Architect: Louis DiBerardino, Studio DiBerardino, New Canaan; 203-972-8704; studiodiberardino.com Builder: Hobbs, Inc., New Canaan; 203-966-0726; hobbsinc.com

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david lapierre +joseph najmy was the juxtaposition of the apothecary drawers for the front of the refrigerator. A special request: DL: This kitchen is a great workspace—spacious and clean—but it also serves as an extension of the living area, connected to the outdoor terraces and open to the views. We loved creating a space that was so unrestrictive and accessible. JN: The Poggenpohl +STAGE pantries with retractable doors on either side of the fridge offer combined storage and workspace that can be concealed behind tall pocket doors. These cabinets store small appliances, a microwave, a built-in coffee maker, utensils and mixing bowls, yet can close quickly for a party. Custom touch: JN: The refrigerator door panels are built from 108 individual apothecary drawer fronts by Plain & Fancy, with conical knobs for a great textural, throwback look that contrasts with the clean, modern Poggenpohl cabinetry.

Age and style of home: DL: This kitchen is part of a new home project,

located on the Rowayton waterfront. The house’s front façade was designed to blend in nicely with the surrounding traditional Shinglestyle houses, while the water side took on a more modern look. The clients: DL: They’re a young family with two kids who love to entertain. They were fun to work with and willing to experiment with a modern, sleek look. JN: They were energetic, thoughtful and creative. Design concept: DL: The clients wanted a clean, uniquely styled kitchen, and Nukitchens suggested working with Poggenpohl to create a custom design for the Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer doors. An indoor/ outdoor flow was also key, so a large pass-through “service window” overlooks the covered porch, which has an outdoor fireplace and TV. JN: The clients wanted a pure design with a mix of white gloss and brushed aluminum finishes on the cabinetry. The inspiration

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PHOTOGRAPHY: JANE BEILES (THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP LEFT); AND KYLE NORTON: ALL OTHERS; PORTRAITS: DAVID LAPIERRE: REGINA MADWED PHOTOGRAPHY; JOSEPH NAJMY: KYLE NORTON

// R O B E R T A . C A R D E L L O A R C H I T E C T S + N U K I T C H E N S //

Resources: Architect: David LaPierre, Project Architect, Robert A. Cardello Architects, Westport; 203-853-2524; cardelloarchitects.com Kitchen designer: Joseph Najmy, Nukitchens, South Norwalk; 203-831-9000; nukitchens.com Interior designer: Nightingale Design, Rowayton; 203-246-9235; julienightingaledesign.com

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// S A G E D E S I G N //

Age and style of home: This home was built in the 1930s with 10-foot ceilings and sweeping views of a river. The home is quite large, with six bedrooms and a two-bedroom guest suite over the garage. Setting the scene: The original kitchen was quite small and very disproportionate to the size of the house. We moved the family room, which was adjacent to the kitchen, into the dining room, and then used the old family room to create a large kitchen with two islands and a fireplace. The clients: They're a family with six children and several pets! The two islands provide plenty of space for food prep and homework or just a place to sit and talk. Having a sofa in the kitchen offers a great respite from the day-to-day whirlwind. I’ve seen reading and card playing on that sofa. Design concept: Since the kitchen has three sections—a main island, a small island and a dining area—we wanted a strong color palette to unite the three spaces. Grounding the stove wall in navy glass tile, the navy painted mullions on the windows, and the other shades of blue in the upholstery made the space feel like one. Making an impact: I love the hammered stainless-steel island counter and integrated sink. The navy glass tile wall is also a showstopper—there is so much movement in each piece of tile, and the overall random pattern really works. What made the most impact, according to my clients, are the different gathering spaces in the kitchen. Their son can be having friends over for a snack, while the nanny feeds the baby, and the mom helps with homework, and everyone is using different parts of the kitchen! Resources: Interior designer: Sage Design, Fairfield; 203-553-9656; sagedesign.com Builder: Mike Nast, Nast Construction; 914-490-9984

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PHOTOGRAPHY: WILLIE COLE PHOTOGRAPHRY; PORTRAIT: KRYSTIN MILLER

kathy hodge

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15 NEW FINDS

RECIPE FOR STYLE Mix designer appliances with fabulous finishing touches

1 // CRATE & BARREL Acacia wood and gold measuring cups; $24.95 for set of 4. Westport; crateandbarrel.com

3 // BALMUDA Toaster oven; $329. food52.com

5 // ALLSTONE GROUP Carrara marble 36” stone 60/40 double bowl farmhouse sink; $2,510. thesinkboutique.com

7 // SISTER PARISH DESIGN FOR COUNTRY FLOORS Albert ceramic tiles, 6x6; $24.64 per sq. ft. Greenwich Tile & Marble; greenwichtileand marble.com

4 // BLUESTAR BlueStar by Design Fireclay Tile fridge; $15,690. bluestarcooking.com

6 // ROCKY MOUNTAIN HARDWARE Quatrafoil knob; $53. Flute cabinet knob; $99. Tab cabinet pull; $66. rockymountainhardware.com

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IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

MAKE IT

CUSTOM

2 // GLOBAL Classic 5-piece Teikoku knife acrylic block set; $600. Williams Sonoma, Westport; williams-sonoma.com

10 // SAMSUNG BESPOKE 4-Door Flex™ refrigerator, available in eight colors and two finishes; price upon request. samsung.com

8 // CIRCA LIGHTING Akova grande pendant by Sean Lavin; $720. Greenwich; circalighting.com

9 // DACOR 24” Integrated wine dispenser; $5,999. dacor.com

15 // WATERWORKS Keystone Prunella; starting at $117 per sq. ft. Greenwich; waterworks.com

11 // STONE FOREST Polished granite farmhouse sink; $3,180. stoneforest.com

IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

12 // NESPRESSO Lattissima One espresso machine; $379.95. bloomingdales.com

13 // LA CORNUE Château 150 range in Quintessential Teal; $52,300. lacornuecollective.com

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14 // KOHLER Tone pull-down singlehandle semi-professional kitchen sink faucet; $797.50. Westport, us.kohler.com

interview with melissa lindsay, pimlic o interiors & ian hobbs, hobbs, inc. | phot o gr apher amy vischio

TAKING SHAPE Embracing its unique layout, this renovated historic home makes room for plenty of style

this spread: The home’s V-shape footprint opens to the garden and entertaining areas in the rear of the property, which can be seen from the front door. Interior designer Melissa Lindsay of Pimlico Interiors designed a custom sofa for the home’s original oval-shaped entry hall; the fabric is by Sandra Jordan.

This house has a very unusual shape. Is what we see now the original footprint? Melissa Lindsay: Yes. The house was built in 1930 by the firm of Delano & Aldrich. They were known for

their appreciation of symmetry, and this house has some striking original features. The entry is at the point where the two sides of its V shape meet. The front door opens to an oval foyer and a beautiful winding stairway. From this level or the upper landing, you can see to the rear of the property, or access the hall that runs from the entry point to each of the two wings. Ian Hobbs: It’s not a common design, but it’s actually very well suited to its location. Although the lot is only about a half acre, the V shape opens to the private, rear elevation of the property, which provides the clients with great views of the pool and gardens from nearly every room of the house. This layout gives them a sense of privacy and enclosure but also a connection to the outdoors. The rooms have beautiful natural light.

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“The home has a beautiful balance. The rooms feel time-honored yet modern .” —melissa lindsay

this page (clockwise from top left): A view toward the kitchen shows the dining room’s handpainted de Gournay wallpaper; the butler’s pantry is richly equipped with custom cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moore’s River Rock, accented with walnut countertops and gleaming hardware; sparkling features, like the vintage mirror wall and crystal chandelier, add a layer of glamour to the dining room. opposite page: In the kitchen, dark metal elements, like the chairs and custom shelf brackets, pay homage to the home’s original fabric.

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Tell us about the clients. ML: This house was purchased as a family

gathering place by a young man who splits his time between coasts. He wanted a home base for when he travels to New York as well as a country retreat for his mother and his younger brother’s family, who live in New York. The mother and son fell in love with the house, but it needed some major improvements to renew the interiors and update its many aging elements. The first professional they brought in was Michael Baushke, a principal of Apparatus Architecture, who had been the architect for the son’s West Coast home. How did the clients find you and Ian? ML: The mother found me online,

and we instantly clicked from the first time we spoke. I met the clients and the architect—on my birthday!—in March 2017. Once we saw the house together, I had a sense of the size of the project. It was going to be extensive and would require incredible attention to detail. I recommended Hobbs, Inc. as the general contractor because I was familiar with their work and their ability to handle large and complex renovations.

opposite page: The library, with shelves full of vintage leather volumes and small treasures, envelops its occupants in the warmth of deep green walls and a cheering hearth; the painting over the sofa is by Caio Fonseca. A lively Schumacher fabric covers the room’s club chairs (top left). this page: A lighter-than-air living room scheme reflects the beautiful natural light pouring into the space and contrasts with the ebony of a grand piano and the caned chairs flanking the fireplace.

this page: The second-floor landing provides a dramatic pause at the top of the stairs, with an Edward Ferrell sofa in a Holland & Sherry fabric, backed by a modern and oversize print Phillip Jeffries floral paper. One can take in the view of the gardens through arched French doors, enhanced by a sculpture by Benedict Tatti. A small powder room (left) is packed with charm, a shimmering gilded mirror and paper by Schumacher. opposite page: The glass-walled sunroom offers a wide-open vista of the property’s beautiful trees and garden.

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What was the scope of the project? IH: It’s a unique and beautiful house,

but it was ready for a facelift. After nearly a hundred years and several remodelings, the house had settled a bit and the floors were uneven, windows were out of plumb, and all of the systems were outdated. We had to take the interiors down to the studs and rebuild. The clients gave us great leeway to use the best materials to replicate the home’s original fabric, including details like substantial hardware, complex millwork, and restoration glass for all of the windows. In improving the drainage for the structure and the property, we were also able to carve out and create livable space on the basement level. From start to finish for design work, and then constructing all of the interior and exterior details, the project took almost two years. Did the mother or son incorporate any existing furnishings?

ML: We brought nothing from her past or her son’s. We selected and brought in everything, down to the flatware from Bergdorf and the antique leatherbound books for the library. She was specific about the fine points: for example, all of the books should be in English, so she could read them. We were able to restore all seven of the home’s fireplaces and locate sources to equip them with custom-made fire baskets. The original baskets were used

to burn coal, although all of the fireplaces are now gas-operated. Those details mattered, and they are part of what makes this home so special and unique. She even has a fireplace in her dressing room—how great is that? How did the two generations impact the design? ML: This was the

interesting part. While the mother was more of a traditionalist, her son had definite modernist leanings. She spends more time here than the other members of the family, and most of the public areas reflect her sensibilities. But it’s a beautiful balance. The rooms feel time-honored yet modern. For example, in the library, a cozy and traditional design is enhanced by its contemporary elements—the art and textiles are very twenty-first century. You’ll find this interplay throughout the house. IH: One of the benefits of the V-shape layout on the second floor is the opportunity for the son and his mother to express their own styles at opposite ends of the house. ML: The son’s primary suite, with its black-and-white palette, and the geometric forms of the exterior metal window frames that enclose the bath and dressing area, are all his taste, and very contemporary and dramatic in feeling. At the same time, a few details in his bedroom—a three-legged

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carved and gilded Louis XV demilune console and a companion chair— provide a couple of touches to remind you of the home’s overall aesthetic. His mother’s wing—complete with a fantastically detailed dressing room and an almost ethereal pastel palette—is all hers.

The glass-walled sunroom on the second floor at the back of the house is a stunning and modern feature. How did that idea evolve? IH: This room

always had the role of a sunroom, but Michael saw the potential to make the outside wall entirely of glass. From there—and actually from the secondfloor landing—you have an amazing view of the back of the property, with all of its greenery, the gardens and the pool. It was a great idea, and it was our challenge to make it happen.

The design uses many recurring elements: wallpapers that reflect nature, and in almost every room, some dark metal. What inspired this? ML: The

use of bronze metal accents connects to the architectural integrity of the home—the repetitive bronze railings outside the French doors throughout— and not only does it connect the home to its history, but it gives a garden element to the interiors, which plays off of a lot of the fabrics, patterns and design elements used throughout. I love how the wallcoverings connect to the gardens outside while also offering a bit of whimsy to different spaces. They create a beautiful layer in the rooms with the artwork, furnishings and lighting. It was so important for me to create interior spaces that have layers and depth—this is often most achieved through the balance of juxtaposing different period pieces, patterns and art.

Was it difficult curving that glass wall? IH: It was a tricky bit of geometry.

The custom fabricated glass wall meets the brick exterior walls of the house on either side, so we had to make it weatherproof, and the fit needed to be perfect. The result was worth the effort. We’re all proud of that detail. How did you accomplish some of the additions to the old floor plan, since the home’s footprint didn’t expand? ML: Between Michael and Ian’s team,

all of the new spaces fit within the existing structure. This house was designed for the long term, so an elevator was added to the plan. The two powder

opposite page: The pastel preferences of the lady of the house, including the Oriental Bird paper by GP & J Baker that covers the walls of her bedroom, are punctuated by the occasional contemporary accent, such as an animal print upholstered chair. In her bath, tradition rules with refined and detailed built-in cabinetry and glowing accessories. below: A wall of vintage framed art speaks to her love of time-honored objects.

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this spread: Geometry in high-contrast black and white defines the son’s domain, contrasted with an antique gilded console that connects this modern retreat to the home’s more traditionally furnished spaces. Dark metal frames most often used for exterior openings outline the bath and dressing room in this dramatic primary bedroom. athomefc.com

this spread: Located in the son’s wing on the second floor, a dark-light counterpoint creates an alluring design dynamic in the guest bedroom. The Schumacher paper, with butterflies and birds on a bright white field, contrasts with dark trim and furnishings, and the Pierre Frey headboard fabric brings a garden green to the palette. A vintage fireplace surround, lit from a custom reproduction of the home’s original fire baskets, enhances this carefully composed and layered design.

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“The clients gave us great leeway to use the best materials to replicate the home’s original fabric.” —ian hobbs

above: At the opening of the two sides of the V-shape house, landscape architect Renée Byers lengthened and enhanced the home’s axis from the front door to the newly located pool in a simple and artful composition, framed by the backyard’s ancient trees.

rooms—off the entry foyer and the upstairs landing—fulfill their functions in very small spaces. But like everything else we did, these additions were designed to feel like they’ve always been part of this house. And because of the remedial work at the basement level, we could actually add more new features. There is a home theater, a very special grandchildren’s room, and a wine room on that lower level. To bring more natural light into these spaces, new window wells were constructed for larger openings to the outside.

one side and a lounging area on the other. IH: The old plan had a porch with a single stair down; this hardscape was expanded to accommodate space for dining and relaxation, and all of the overgrown shrubbery that was planted up against the back of the house was removed. The new landscape has a symmetry that relates perfectly to the house. Was the pool house an addition? IH: It was, and again you can see the

How did you update the existing backyard? ML: The rear elevation of the

counterpoint between classical form and modern features. You have a traditional, temple-like structure with very geometric and contemporary glass-and-metal openings.

house is framed by three beautiful and very old trees. Those were preserved, but the entire rear landscape was reworked. To create the beautiful axis that extends from the front entry to the rear of the property, the pool location was moved so it centers the outdoor view. It’s flanked by the pool house on

The beautiful plantings are placed in a very elegant pattern. Who designed

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above: With a classic temple shape and columns that relate its structure to the porch, the new pool house is a perfect fit for a landscape that honors the past and future of a historic home.

the landscape? ML: The landscape was designed by Renée Byers; she did

best professionals. They understood that it’s a harder task to recreate a home and make it feel like it’s always been there. Not all projects end this way, but it was honestly such an enjoyable experience that it was almost bittersweet when we were done. The clients allowed us to do our best work, and that’s something we all appreciate. —interview by judy ostrow

great work that complements the home’s exterior and interior features. Now that the project is complete and the clients are happily using this home, what are your own feelings about it? IH: The project had so much

detail, but there was great teamwork. Michael had a vision, and I had Dave Smart and Toni Sand from our firm as supervisor and project manager to work out every fine point. It was a plus to be involved from the beginning, when Melissa recommended us for the project. And the clients were amazing. They were willing to go the distance to get everything just right. ML: From my first conversations with the clients, this project had a wonderful energy. Everyone shared a vison, and I always felt I was working with a team of all-stars. The clients respected the idea of bringing in the

Resources: Interior designer: Pimlico Interiors, Westport; 203-972-8166; pimlicointeriors.com Builder: Hobbs, Inc., New Canaan; 203-966-0726; hobbsinc.com Architect: Michael Baushke, Apparatus Architecture, San Francisco; 415-703-0904; apparatus.com Landscape architect: Renée Byers Landscape Architect, Greenwich; 203-489-0800; reneebyers.com

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perfect fit A landscape developed in tandem with a new home results in a property with refined and quiet grace interview with james d oyle & heather harris, james d oyle design asso ciates phot o gr apher allegr a anderson

this spread: Placing the house closer to the front of the property—and a busy road—was a tight maneuver accomplished by layers of screening: large evergreens, understory trees and flowering shrubs.

above: A composition of carefully clipped hedge and expanses of lawn perfectly outline the motor court and accent the home’s classic profile. opposite page: The tranquil setting is punctuated by containers of boxwood that define the front entry.

space, for a swimming pool and for practical needs, like a front motor court and additional parking near the garage.

This project is beautiful and serene. How did it begin? James Doyle: We created this landscape for a client of mine from many

years ago, one who has also become a family friend. The couple bought a property located quite close to town. They planned to remove the existing house, so this project was a new build, and they asked us to work with the architect for the house to develop the landscape. In my experience, there can be added pressure in working for a client who has become a friend, so I passed the primary responsibility for this project on to Heather. This client is very thoughtful about details, and we both knew there would be a great deal of interaction as the job progressed.

When did you join the project, and how did you get started?

JD: We joined the project at the very beginning, while the previous house was still there. Once it was demolished, it became apparent that there was a lot of water on the property, so that became an added layer of preliminary work. In order to develop the landscape, the first thing we needed was a civil engineer to improve the drainage. That’s not the sexy side of landscape architecture, but this kind of challenge means that there is quite a bit more coordination required among all of the professionals. Heather Harris: The client was extremely patient with that process of figuring out what to do with the water. We had some minor changes to make to the grading at the back of the property, but it all worked out.

What did the client have in mind? JD: The client hired James Schettino

Architects to build the house, the pool and pool house, and an added gym building on the property. The client wanted us to coordinate a program with the architect for outdoor entertaining, for flat usable

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“The indoor/outdoor

balance comes together in many places in the design .” —james doyle

above: Sandstone paving alternates with gravel beds to form the hardscape elements of the outdoor living space. Evergreen mounds line the path, and evergreen hedge creates perimeters. right: Space for cooking and dining is placed next to the kitchen, with shading provided by umbrella canopies over table seating. opposite page: A lounging area features a freestanding fieldstone fireplace as its focal point.

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The house seems to sit with a comfortable amount of land around it. How large is the property? HH: It’s slightly more than an acre, but it’s a smaller property, and it’s on

a main road. The client didn’t want to hear any road noise or see headlights at night, but working with the client and the architect, we were able to push the placement of the new house forward, which aligns it with neighboring properties and balances what is a large house with its surroundings, so that it doesn’t appear out of scale. With the house located closer to the road, screening for privacy and quiet became even more important. What were the screening elements? HH: We were lucky. We inherited some 80-foot

spruce trees that were already there. Then we developed an understory, incorporating some smaller hemlock and spruce. As a transition to the pedestrian areas, we installed additional plantings: a few varieties of hydrangea and rhododendron to give the entry to the property a welcoming feel. JD: The client wanted a formal entry, and it was a matter of feet and inches when we were siting the house. You’ll notice that the front motor court goes right up to a new retaining wall, with the greenery behind it acting as a buffer. Once you had settled on the placement of the house, how did you proceed?

HH: The client had a lot of say during our development of the landscape design.

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Every few days, we would send sketches and get input. They wanted us to use our creativity, but they already were sure of the elements they required. JD: There were a lot of practical needs here. Our challenge was to give the client outdoor entertaining spaces close to the house and make them accessible. The dining area needed to be near the kitchen, but also to have shade. There were many facets of the program to balance.

This long view from the front door to the pool house is a great feature. But looking toward the house from the pool area, there is no rigid symmetry left to right. How did you accomplish that?

HH: Because there is a long wing on one side of the back of the house, ending in a stone-clad garage, the fact that the axis runs through the center of the house is disguised by the home’s design. Opposite the rear wing of the house is a long perennial bed and a row of sheared trees, with lawn and tall evergreens beyond them for a softer border on that side.

What were your concerns about the arrangement of all of these components? HH: All of the windows at the back of the house would

What are the elements you used to create the different spaces that

overlook the working part of the landscape: the entertaining space, dining area, lounging space. We didn’t want to make these elements seem like one giant terrace.

the clients wanted close to the house, but not have everything look like, as you said, one giant terrace? HH: The relationship of hardscape

and softscape off of the back of the house took a great deal of thought. We broke up the terraces into a quadrant, while integrating evergreen plant material and gravel. There are spaces for all of the functions that the client wanted to fulfill at the back of the house. There’s a dining area, a barbecue, the fireplace and lounging space, and then the pool and the pool house. But the design integrates carefully placed greenery and color within the hardscape; it’s not just end-to-end stone paving. Our goal was for the clients to see a lovely view when they look out of their rear windows, upstairs or downstairs. Woody shrubs align the space and provide color

How did you meet this challenge? HH: You can see the organizing

element when you walk up to the entry from the motor court. As you walk in the front door, the main hallway aligns perfectly with the pool house; this is the main axis of the landscape and the center of the house. When you exit the house to the back from the hallway, the landscape unfolds to the left and right and concludes at the pool house in the rearmost part of the property.

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above: The perennial plantings contain a mix of flowering varieties to provide color throughout the growing season. below: Softscape that includes a handsome row of sheared lindens creates the border on one side of the quadrant that Harris and Doyle designed. opposite page: Even the perennial bed, with its colorful display, is well delineated, preserving the careful geometry of the quadrant design.

this spread: Changing the grade between the outdoor living spaces close to the house and the pool area visually expands the distance between these elements. The low clipped hedge of Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) accentuates this optical illusion. athomefc.com

“Changing the grade for the pool area provides for a nice

transitional space between it and the other hardscape areas.”

—james doyle

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this spread: A limited neutral palette for hardscape and furnishings—most designed by Matthew Willinger of James Doyle Design Associates— enhances the calm and tranquility of the landscape. Backdrops of color, such as a generous planting of classic “Nikko Blue” hydrangea behind the pool’s lounging deck, create artful accents in the outdoor seasons.

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in four seasons. Perennial space, directly off the back of the house, allows the client to add plant material and color in a carefully defined area. And then, the row of sheared linden trees creates a wonderful backdrop. JD: There are also subtle variations in the hardscape. The choice of stone was very important. Instead of bluestone, we used a quartz sandstone from India, which is light in color and not as warm underfoot as bluestone. With all of the hardscape, we used different finishes on the stone for different areas to give it further dimension. Changing the grade for the pool area provides for a nice transitional space between it and the other hardscape areas.

Can you share a bit about the plant varieties you used for this project?

HH: Our palette was fairly simple: multiple cultivars of hydrangea, rhododendron, abelia, spiraea, syringa and viburnum. There were many taxus already planted by the previous owner for screening at the property’s perimeters. We filled in several spaces that needed more screening with additional taxus plantings. Since you were working in collaboration with the architect, the builder, the client and the other professionals involved, what do you think this team effort brought to the project? HH: The connections between

the interiors and the exterior of the house were very important, and the architect and builder worked with us to create this linkage. The long axis from the front entry that visually connects the main structure with the landscape, all the way to the pool house, is just one example. The placement of the openings at the rear of the house works together with the hardscape and softscape, and this strengthens the connections between these elements and the house. It was a wonderful experience to work as a team to make this happen.

So, the property is not large, but the design seems to enlarge it. How did you achieve that? HH: One of our main goals was the use of open

space, to help disguise the smaller lot. For example, the pool is close to the house, though the open lawn, with its low hedges, makes the distance between the pool and the house feel larger than it actually is. Another strategy we used to help make the property seem larger was to play with plant material in different sizes, as well as with changes in contour.

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this spread: Stone surfaces throughout the landscape are crafted of quartz sandstone from India. Its appearance varies in different parts of the landscape based on the finishing technique applied to the stone.

“Our goal was for the clients to see a lovely view when they look out of their rear windows, upstairs or downstairs .” —heather harris

JD: This indoor/outdoor balance comes together in many places in the design. One example is the herbaceous border, placed on center with the client’s study. How long did it take from initial discussions to the finishing details?

HH: It was about two years from beginning to end; we completed our work in December 2019. We’re always the last ones to leave a project like this, and we want to make sure that our clients feel that the end result was worth enduring a long and sometimes complicated process. How is the client enjoying their new property? HH: They love it. It’s one

of those properties that, when I stop by and pull into the motor court, just feels good and comfortable, like it’s been there for much longer than a year and a half. JD: The timing of this project was interesting, because not long after we finished, everyone, including our client, experienced the lockdown

this spread: Steel-and-glass doors placed at the rear of the home’s center hall reveal the axis between the house and the pool house at the far end of the property, with the landscape unfolding on either side. The pool house’s covered terrace marks the endpoint of this pivotal design element.

caused by the pandemic. Because of these extraordinary circumstances, the household ended up spending much more time in their new home and landscape than they ever expected. More of the family moved home during that period, and everyone used the outdoor spaces. The trying months of 2020 made them love these spaces even more. HH: They’re even planning for more outdoor furniture. —interview by judy ostrow

Greenwich; 203-869-2900; jdda.com Architect: James Schettino Architects, New Canaan; 203-966-5552; schettinoarchitects.com General contractor/builder: Lee Schettino Construction, New Canaan and Bridgeport; 203-972-9144; lsccompany.com Engineer and surveyor: Sound View Engineers & Land Surveyors, Greenwich; 203-532-1300; soundviewengineers.com Pool: Signature Pools, Norwalk; 203-297-9749; signaturepoolsinc.com

Resources:

Mason: Sandoval’s Landscaping & Masonry; 203-969-7991; sandovalslm.com

Landscape architect: James Doyle Design Associates, Greenwich;

Landscaper: Passerelli Landscapes, Greenwich; 203-532-0452; ronlandscapes.com

203-869-2900; jdda.com

Perennial garden maintenance and planter designer: DAB Design,

Outdoor furniture: Designed by Matthew Willinger of James Doyle Design Associates,

North Salem, NY; 914-548-4419; dianebilgore.com

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